Battery pack and vehicle

Abstract

The invention provides a battery pack and a vehicle. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to a battery pack (4) comprising a battery pack (6) comprising:-a base plate (8) comprising a first support surface (10) facing away from the base plate (8) in a first direction (d1) along a third axis (z) and further comprising a second support surface (12) facing away from the base plate (8) in a second direction (d2) opposite the first direction (d1), the invention relates to a battery module comprising a base plate (8), a first support surface (10), a second support surface (12), a first battery stack layer (14) arranged on the first support surface (10), a second battery stack layer (16) arranged on the second support surface (12), a frame device (18) mechanically connected to the base plate (8) and enclosing the first and second battery stack layers (14, 16). The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to energy storage systems. In a particular aspect, this disclosure relates to a battery pack and a vehicle. This disclosure is applicable to heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks, buses, and construction equipment, as well as other vehicle types. Although this disclosure may be described with respect to a particular vehicle, it is not limited to any particular vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] A battery pack typically comprises multiple battery cells, i.e., electrochemical battery cells, connected in series and / or parallel. A battery pack may include one or more individual battery cell stacks or battery modules. Battery cells can be prismatic or cylindrical.

[0003] Due to trends such as vehicle electrification, there is ongoing effort to develop improved technologies related to battery packs, such as to provide more cost-effective configurations that are reliable, robust, and / or space-saving. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack has a first extension along a first axis, a second extension along a second axis, and a third extension along a third axis, wherein the first axis, the second axis, and the third axis are perpendicular. The battery pack includes a battery pack layer comprising:

[0005] - A base plate, the base plate including a first support surface facing away from the base plate in a first direction along the third axis, and also including a second support surface facing away from the base plate in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0006] - A first battery stack layer, which is disposed on the first support surface.

[0007] - A second battery stack layer, which is disposed on the second support surface.

[0008] - A frame assembly that is mechanically connected to the base plate and encloses the first battery stack and the second battery stack, as shown in a cross-section perpendicular to the third axis.

[0009] Each of the first battery stack and the second battery stack includes:

[0010] - Multiple cell stacks, each cell stack consisting of multiple battery cells stacked together.

[0011] And the frame device includes:

[0012] - A pair of sidewalls extending along the first axis, wherein the plurality of cells are stacked along the second axis between the pair of sidewalls.

[0013] - A pair of end members extending along the second axis and mechanically connected to the pair of sidewalls, wherein the plurality of battery cells are stacked between the pair of end members. A first aspect of this disclosure seeks to provide a reliable, robust, and / or space-saving cost-effective battery pack configuration. Technical benefits may include achieving space-saving and robust encapsulation of the battery cells along the third axis by arranging the battery cells on opposite sides of a base plate while also protecting the battery cells with a closed frame assembly. The frame assembly may be configured to provide structural support for the battery cells along the second and / or first axes. Alternatively or additionally, the frame assembly may be used to stack multiple battery layers together along the third axis. Thus, a flexible and modular configuration can be achieved with the battery pack configuration disclosed herein.

[0014] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the plurality of battery cells of the respective battery cell stack are stacked along the second axis, and the plurality of cell stacks are arranged along the first axis. Technical benefits may include that any expansion forces from the respective battery cell stacks can be borne by the same structural components (i.e., the pair of sidewalls) of each battery cell stack. This may mean a more rigid battery pack configuration, for example, allowing the battery pack to be longer along the first axis without significantly negatively impacting the pack's stiffness.

[0015] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery cell may include a prismatic battery cell. Alternatively, the battery cell may include a cylindrical battery cell. The prismatic battery cell may include a top surface, a bottom surface, and four intermediate sides connecting the top surface and the bottom surface. The prismatic battery cell may be box-shaped. Using prismatic battery cells stacked in a battery cell stack can produce battery pack configurations with high energy density.

[0016] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the sidewalls are welded to the base plate. Technical benefits may include a robust and cost-effective configuration.

[0017] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery pack layer also includes a crossbeam member extending along the second axis and mechanically connecting the pair of sidewalls, wherein the crossbeam member is located between adjacent battery stacks. Technical benefits may include a more robust battery pack configuration. For example, the crossbeam member can result in improved impact protection for the battery pack.

[0018] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the beam member is welded to the opposite sidewall. Technical benefits may include a robust and cost-effective configuration.

[0019] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the beam member is attached to the base plate via at least one first fastener. Technical benefits may include a robust and cost-effective configuration.

[0020] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the beam member is arranged on one of the first support surface and the second support surface, wherein the battery pack is configured such that at least one first fastener for attaching the beam member to the base plate has been inserted from the other of the first support surface and the second support surface. Technical benefits may include efficient and reliable attachment of the beam member to the base plate.

[0021] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery pack includes a clamping member configured to clamp at least one of the battery cells, wherein the clamping member is mechanically connected to a frame assembly enclosing the at least one battery cell and / or mechanically connected to a base plate on which the at least one battery cell is disposed, such that the clamping member applies a clamping force toward the base plate through the at least one battery cell. Technical benefits may include achieving secure attachment of the battery cells in the battery pack, for example, mitigating the risk of movement of the battery cells or battery cell stacks during use, such as preventing vibration of the battery cells during use.

[0022] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the clamping member is configured to clamp at least one of at least one of a stack of adjacent cells located between the crossbeam member, and wherein the clamping member is mechanically connected to the crossbeam member, for example, via a second fastener. Technical benefits may include improved attachment of the clamping member, for example, allowing attachment not only at or near any sidewall of the frame assembly. In some examples, the clamping member is integrated with the crossbeam member; that is, the crossbeam member and the clamping member may be configured as a single piece.

[0023] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the clamping member extends along the first axis such that the clamping member and the crossbeam member form a T-shape, as shown in the cross section perpendicular to the second axis, wherein at least one of the battery cells in each of the adjacent cell stacks between which the crossbeam member is located is clamped by the clamping member. Technical benefits may include the battery cells in two adjacent cell stacks being clamped by the same clamping member. This could mean a more cost-effective and space-saving configuration.

[0024] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the base plate is a cooling plate that includes at least one coolant conduit for the coolant. Technical benefits may include the ability of the first and second battery stacks to be cooled by the same cooling plate. This can result in improved cooling, more efficient cooling, and / or cooling requiring fewer battery cell cooling elements.

[0025] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the cooling plate includes a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet, the coolant inlet and the coolant outlet being fluidly connected to the at least one coolant conduit. In some examples, the coolant inlet and / or outlet is located at at least one of the opposite end members, such as being located on one end side of the battery pack.

[0026] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery cell includes a pair of electrical terminals located on the top surface of the battery cell, the pair of electrical terminals facing away from the base plate on which the battery cell is disposed in a direction along the third axis. Technical benefits may include allowing for a narrower enclosure of the battery cell at the sidewalls, for example, eliminating the need for wiring at the interface between the battery cell and the sidewalls. This can result in a more rigid and robust enclosure of the battery cell within the frame assembly.

[0027] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery pack includes at least two of the battery layers stacked on top of each other along the third axis. Technical benefits may include space-saving packaging of multiple battery cells along the third axis.

[0028] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, at least two of the battery layers stacked on top of each other along the third axis are mechanically connected to each other via the frame device. Technical benefits may include achieving a robust and rigid stacking of the battery layers along the third axis. In some examples, at least two of the battery layers stacked on top of each other along the third axis are mechanically connected to each other via the pair of sidewalls. Technical benefits may include that the pair of sidewalls can not only be arranged to accommodate expansion forces from the respective battery cell stacks, but can also be arranged as stacking blocks for stacking the battery layers along the third axis.

[0029] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, at least two adjacent stacked battery layers, stacked on top of each other along the third axis, are mechanically connected to each other by one or more third fasteners. Technical benefits may include achieving a rigid and robust connection in a cost-effective manner, for example, allowing the addition and removal of battery layers without damaging any components of the battery pack. In some examples, the frame assembly of at least two of the battery layers stacked on top of each other can together at least partially form an outer cover for the battery pack, sealing it off from the external environment. Technical benefits may include enabling improved cell-to-pack configurations.

[0030] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, at least one of the one or more third fasteners is disposed in a complementary hole of the frame assembly of the at least two adjacent stacked battery layers, wherein one of the complementary holes in the frame assembly has a fastener opening accessible from a side of the frame assembly, the side being directed away from the frame assembly in a direction along the first axis or in a direction along the second axis. Technical advantages may include benefits to the manufacture of the battery pack. Technical benefits may additionally or alternatively include achieving a more space-saving frame assembly.

[0031] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the fastener opening is provided in a recess on the side. Technical advantages may include benefits to the manufacture of the battery pack. Technical benefits may additionally or alternatively include achieving a more space-saving frame assembly.

[0032] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery pack includes a pair of covers, each of which is secured to one of the frame devices such that the plurality of battery layers are positioned between the pairs of covers along the third axis, and each of the plurality of cell stacks is enclosed by the frame device and the pairs of covers. Technical benefits may include achieving a closed battery pack structure.

[0033] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery pack includes a pair of outer gaskets, wherein each of the outer gaskets is located between one of the pairs of covers and one of the frame devices to which the cover is secured, and wherein each of the outer gaskets is configured to seal between the cover and the frame device. Technical benefits may include achieving a sealed and enclosed battery pack structure.

[0034] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery pack includes an intermediate gasket located between frame devices of adjacent battery layers, and wherein the intermediate gasket is configured to seal between the frame devices. Technical benefits may include achieving a sealed and enclosed battery pack structure.

[0035] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle is provided that includes a battery pack according to any of the examples of the first aspect of this disclosure. The advantages and benefits of the second aspect of this disclosure are similar to those of the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0036] Those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed aspects, examples (including any preferred examples), and / or appended claims can be appropriately combined with each other. Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the following description, claims, and drawings, and will be apparent in part to those skilled in the art or recognized by practicing this disclosure as described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0037] The example is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] Figure 1 It is an illustrative vehicle in the side view based on the example.

[0039] Figure 2a This is an example of a battery pack shown in a top view, based on the example.

[0040] Figure 2b This is an example of a battery pack shown in the side view.

[0041] Figure 2c It is an example of a battery pack in the front view, based on the example.

[0042] Figure 2d It is an example of a battery pack in the perspective view based on the example.

[0043] Figure 3a This is an example of a battery pack shown in the side view.

[0044] Figure 3b It is an example of a battery pack in the front view, based on the example.

[0045] The accompanying drawings are schematic and may not necessarily be drawn to scale. Unless otherwise stated, similar reference numerals throughout the drawings refer to the same or similar elements. In some drawings, certain reference numerals may be omitted for clarity. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The detailed description set forth below provides information and examples of the disclosed technology in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice this disclosure.

[0047] The objective of this disclosure is to provide a robust, reliable, cost-effective, and / or space-saving battery pack. Additionally, the objective may be to provide an improved battery pack and / or vehicle that at least partially mitigates one or more disadvantages of the prior art or is at least a suitable alternative. For example, by providing a battery pack configuration as disclosed herein, space-saving and robust encapsulation of the battery cells is achieved by arranging the battery cells on opposite sides of a base plate while simultaneously protecting them with a closed frame assembly. The frame assembly is preferably configured to provide structural support for the battery cells along a second axis and / or a first axis. Alternatively, the frame assembly can be used to stack multiple battery layers together along a third axis. Thus, a flexible and modular configuration can be achieved with the battery pack configuration disclosed herein. As another example, more efficient cooling of the battery cells can be achieved with the battery pack configuration disclosed herein.

[0048] Figure 1 In this example, vehicle 2 is a truck, and more specifically, a tractor-trailer used to tow one or more trailers (not shown). However, it should be noted that the vehicle can be any other type of vehicle, such as another type of truck, bus, passenger car, vessel, or construction equipment such as a wheel loader or excavator. Vehicle 2 includes a battery pack 4 according to the example disclosed herein. Battery pack 4 can be at least partially used to drive one or more electric motors (not shown) of vehicle 2. Thus, vehicle 2 can be an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, i.e., a vehicle that is at least partially propelled by electricity. Battery pack 4, as disclosed herein, can also be used for stationary units, such as buildings and / or any stationary machinery.

[0049] Figure 2a This is an example of battery pack 4 in the top view, based on the example. Figure 2a Battery pack 4 in the middle can be used for example Figure 1 Vehicle 2 is shown. Figure 2b yes Figure 2a A side view of battery pack 4 in the image, while Figure 2c This is a front view of battery pack 4. Figure 2b The interior of battery pack 4 is depicted in at least part of the image.

[0050] For example Figure 2a-c, the battery pack 4 has a first extension along a first axis x, a second extension along a second axis y, and a third extension along a third axis z. The first axis x, the second axis y, and the third axis z are perpendicular. For example, the first axis x may correspond to a longitudinal axis, the second axis y may correspond to a width axis, and the third axis z may correspond to a height axis. The x, y, and z axes may correspond to a Cartesian coordinate system. In some examples, when the battery pack 4 is installed in the vehicle 2, the height axis z may correspond to the height axis of the vehicle 2. In some examples, the height axis z may be represented as a vertical axis. However, it should be noted that the battery pack 4 may also be oriented in different ways in the vehicle 2 or any other fixed unit.

[0051] Battery pack 4 includes battery pack layer 6.

[0052] The battery pack layer 6 includes a base plate 8. The base plate 8 includes a first support surface 10 that faces away from the base plate 8 in a first direction d1 along a third axis z. The base plate 8 also includes a second support surface 12 that faces away from the base plate 8 in a second direction d2 opposite to the first direction d1.

[0053] The battery pack layer 6 also includes a first battery stack layer 14 disposed on the first support surface 10 and a second battery stack layer 16 disposed on the second support surface 12.

[0054] The battery pack layer 6 also includes a frame assembly 18. The frame assembly 18 is mechanically connected to the base plate 8 and encloses the first battery stack layer 14 and the second battery stack layer 16, as shown in a section perpendicular to the third axis z.

[0055] The first battery stack 14 includes multiple cell stacks 20, each cell stack including multiple battery cells 22 stacked together.

[0056] The second battery stack 16 also includes multiple cell stacks 20, each cell stack including multiple battery cells 22 stacked together.

[0057] The frame assembly 18 includes a pair of sidewalls 24 extending along a first axis x, wherein a plurality of cell stacks 20 are located between the pair of sidewalls 24 along a second axis y.

[0058] The frame assembly 18 also includes a pair of end members 25 that extend along a second axis y and are mechanically connected to the pair of sidewalls 24, and wherein a plurality of cell stacks 20 are located between the pair of end members 25.

[0059] exist Figure 2a In the example shown in -c, battery cell 22 is a prismatic battery cell.

[0060] The corresponding battery cell stack 20 can have multiple battery cells 22 (e.g., prismatic battery cells 22) stacked along the second axis y as shown, and the multiple battery cell stack 20 can be arranged along the first axis x.

[0061] The corresponding battery cell stack 20 may also include at least one spacer 221. The spacer 221 may be configured to accommodate the expansion deformation of the battery cells 22 in the battery cell stack 20. The spacer may be provided at the end of the battery cell stack 20 near any of the sidewalls 24, and / or the spacer may be provided between two adjacent battery cells 22 in the battery cell stack 20.

[0062] For example, a pair of sidewalls 24 can be welded to the base plate 8.

[0063] The battery pack 6 may, as further illustrated herein, include crossbeam members 26 extending along a second axis and mechanically connecting the pair of sidewalls 24, wherein the crossbeam members 26 are located between adjacent cell stacks 20. In the example shown, there are three crossbeam members 26 between adjacent cell stacks 20. However, it should be noted that any number of crossbeam members 26 may be provided, and even in some examples, there may be no crossbeam members. For example... Figure 2b As shown, the battery pack layer 6 may also include at least one outer beam member 26' located at the outer end of the plurality of battery cell stacks 20, as shown along the x-axis.

[0064] For example, the beam member 26 can be welded to a pair of sidewalls 24, thereby increasing the structural stiffness of the frame assembly 18.

[0065] The battery pack 6 may also include clamping members 28 configured to clamp at least one of the battery cells 22. In the example shown, there are five clamping members 28. However, it should be noted that more or fewer clamping members as disclosed herein may be used, and even in some examples, there may be no clamping members. The clamping members 28 are mechanically connected to the frame assembly 18 that encloses at least one battery cell 22, and / or the clamping members 28 are mechanically connected to the base plate 8 on which at least one battery cell 22 is disposed, such that the clamping members 28 apply a clamping force toward the base plate 8 on which at least one battery cell 22 is disposed through at least one battery cell 22.

[0066] The clamping member 28 can be configured as shown to clamp at least one of the battery cells 22 in at least one of the adjacent battery cell stacks 20 located between the crossbeam member 26, and the clamping member 28 can be mechanically connected to the crossbeam member 26, for example, via a second fastener 30.

[0067] Alternatively, the clamping member 28 may be mechanically connected to a pair of sidewalls 24, such as by fasteners and / or welding.

[0068] As shown in the figure, the clamping member 28 preferably extends along the second axis y between the pair of sidewalls 24, such that the clamping member 28 clamps each of the battery cells 22 in the battery cell stack 20.

[0069] Alternatively or alternatively, and as for example Figure 2b As shown, the clamping member 28 extends along the first axis x such that the clamping member 28 and the crossbeam member 26 form a T-shape, as shown in the cross section perpendicular to the second axis y, wherein at least one of the battery cells 22 in each of the adjacent battery cell stacks 20 between which the crossbeam member 26 is located is clamped by the clamping member 28.

[0070] Figure 2d A perspective view of a portion of a battery pack 4 according to an example is shown, the battery pack including a beam member 26” that extends along a second axis y and is mechanically connected to a pair of sidewalls 24 (not shown). The beam member 26” is located between adjacent cell stacks 20. As shown, the beam member 26” can be attached to a base plate 8 via at least one first fastener 29. As further shown, the beam member 26” can be arranged on one of a first support surface 10 and a second support surface 12. In the example shown, the beam member 26” is arranged on the second support surface 12. The battery pack 4 can be configured such that at least one first fastener 29 attaching the beam member 26” to the base plate 8 has been inserted from the other of the first support surface 10 and the second support surface 12, i.e., from the first support surface 10 in this example.

[0071] like Figure 2d The document further indicates that the clamping member 28' disclosed herein can be integrated with the beam member 26"; that is, the beam member 26" and the clamping member 28' can be configured as a single piece.

[0072] refer to Figure 2b The substrate 8 may be a cooling plate 8, which includes at least one coolant conduit 82 for coolant. The cooling plate 8 may include a coolant inlet 32 ​​and a coolant outlet 34 fluidly connected to the at least one coolant conduit 82. The coolant inlet 32 ​​and the coolant outlet 34 may be as follows: Figure 2c The image shows the location on one of the opposing end members 25. An electrical connection 35 for electrically connecting the battery cell 22 to a load (not shown) may also be provided on one of the opposing end members 25 (such as on the front side of the battery pack 4).

[0073] For example Figure 2bAs further shown, the battery cell 22 preferably includes a pair of electrical terminals 23 located on the top surface 222 of the battery cell 22, which are opposite to the bottom plate 8 on which the battery cell 22 is arranged in the direction along the third axis z.

[0074] Figure 3a This is a side view of the illustrative battery pack 4 as shown in the example. Figure 3b yes Figure 3a The front view of battery pack 4 in the image.

[0075] As shown in the figure, the battery pack 4 may include at least two of the battery layers 6 according to the examples disclosed herein, which are stacked on top of each other along the third axis z.

[0076] At least two of the battery layers 6 stacked on top of each other along the third axis z are preferably mechanically connected to each other via a frame device 18.

[0077] As shown in the figure, at least two adjacent stacked battery layers 6 of at least two battery layers 6 stacked on top of each other along the third axis z can be mechanically connected to each other by one or more third fasteners 36.

[0078] The fasteners disclosed herein can be any type of fastener, such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc.

[0079] At least one of one or more third fasteners 36 may be provided in complementary holes 361, 362 of the frame assembly 18 of at least two adjacent stacked battery layers 6. One of the complementary holes 361 in one of the frame assemblies may have a fastener opening 3611 that can be accessed from a side 181 of the frame assembly 18 along a first axis x (e.g., ...). Figure 3a (as shown) is guided away from the frame device 18 in the direction of or along the second axis y.

[0080] The fastener opening 3611 can be provided in the recess 182 on the side 181 as shown in the figure.

[0081] The battery pack 4 may include a pair of covers 38, each of which is fixed to one of the frame devices 18 such that a plurality of battery layers 6 are located between the pairs of covers 38 along a third axis z, and each of a plurality of cell stacks 20 is closed by the frame device 18 and the pairs of covers 38.

[0082] The battery pack 4 may additionally or alternatively include a pair of outer gaskets 40, wherein each of the outer gaskets 40 is located between one of the pairs of covers 38 and one of the frame devices 18 to which the cover 38 is fixed, and wherein each of the outer gaskets 40 is configured to seal between the cover 38 and the frame device 18.

[0083] In some examples, the frame units 18 of at least two of the battery layers 6 stacked on top of each other can together form at least partially an outer cover for the battery pack 4 that is sealed off from the external environment. For example, the battery pack 4 may include an intermediate gasket 42 located between the frame units 18 of adjacent battery layers 6, and wherein the intermediate gasket 42 is configured to seal between the frame units 18.

[0084] In the following text, the features and possible combinations of features of this disclosure are presented as a series of examples.

[0085] Example 1: A battery pack (4) having a first extension along a first axis (x), a second extension along a second axis (y), and a third extension along a third axis (z), wherein the first axis, the second axis, and the third axis (x, y, z) are perpendicular, the battery pack (4) including a battery pack layer (6), the battery pack layer (6) comprising:

[0086] - A base plate (8), the base plate including a first support surface (10) facing away from the base plate (8) in a first direction (d1) along the third axis (z), and also including a second support surface (12) facing away from the base plate (8) in a second direction (d2) opposite to the first direction (d1).

[0087] - A first battery stack layer (14), which is disposed on the first support surface (10).

[0088] - A second battery stack layer (16), which is disposed on the second support surface (12).

[0089] - A frame assembly (18), mechanically connected to the base plate (8) and enclosing the first battery stack and the second battery stack (14, 16), as shown in a cross-section perpendicular to the third axis (z).

[0090] The first battery stack (14) and the second battery stack (16) each include:

[0091] - Multiple cell stacks (20), each cell stack comprising multiple battery cells (22) stacked together,

[0092] And the frame device (18) mentioned above includes:

[0093] - A pair of sidewalls (24) extending along the first axis (x), wherein the plurality of cell stacks (20) are located between the pair of sidewalls (24) along the second axis (y).

[0094] - A pair of end members (25) extending along the second axis (y) and mechanically connected to the pair of sidewalls (24), wherein the plurality of cell stacks (20) are located between the pair of end members (25).

[0095] Example 2: According to the battery pack (4) of Example 1, wherein the plurality of battery cells (22) of the respective battery cell stacks are stacked along the second axis (y), and wherein the plurality of cell stacks (20) are arranged along the first axis (x).

[0096] Example 3: The battery pack (4) according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the pair of sidewalls (24) are welded to the base plate (8).

[0097] Example 4: A battery pack (4) according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the battery pack layer further includes a beam member (26) extending along the second axis (y) and mechanically connecting the pair of sidewalls (24), and wherein the beam member (26) is located between adjacent cell stacks (20).

[0098] Example 5: According to the battery pack (4) of Example 4, the crossbeam member (26) is welded to the pair of sidewalls (24).

[0099] Example 6: The battery pack (4) according to any one of Examples 4 to 5, wherein the crossbeam member (26”) is attached to the base plate (8) via at least one first fastener (29).

[0100] Example 7: According to the battery pack (4) of Example 6, wherein the crossbeam member (26”) is arranged on one of the first support surface (10) and the second support surface (12), wherein the battery pack (4) is configured such that at least one first fastener (29) for attaching the crossbeam member (26”) to the base plate (8) has been inserted from the other of the first support surface (10) and the second support surface (12).

[0101] Example 8: A battery pack (4) according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the battery pack layer includes a clamping member (28) configured to clamp at least one of the battery cells (22), wherein the clamping member (28) is mechanically connected to the frame device (18) enclosing the at least one battery cell (22) and / or mechanically connected to the base plate (8) on which the at least one battery cell (22) is disposed, such that the clamping member (28) applies a clamping force toward the base plate (8) on which the at least one battery cell (22) is disposed through the at least one battery cell (22).

[0102] Example 9: A battery pack (4) according to Example 8, which also depends on any one of Examples 4 to 7, wherein the clamping member (28) is configured to clamp at least one of the battery cells (22) in at least one of the adjacent cell stacks (20) located between the beam member (26), and wherein the clamping member (28) is mechanically connected to the beam member (26) such as via a second fastener (30).

[0103] Example 10: According to the battery pack (4) of Example 9, wherein the clamping member (28) extends along the first axis (x) such that the clamping member (28) and the crossbeam member (26) form a T-shape, as shown in the cross section perpendicular to the second axis (y), wherein at least one of the battery cells (22) in each of the adjacent cell stacks (20) between which the crossbeam member (26) is located is clamped by the clamping member (28).

[0104] Example 11: A battery pack (4) according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the base plate (8) is a cooling plate (8) and the cooling plate includes at least one coolant conduit (82) for coolant.

[0105] Example 12: According to the battery pack (4) of Example 11, the cooling plate (8) includes a coolant inlet (32) and a coolant outlet (34) fluidly connected to the at least one coolant conduit (82).

[0106] Example 13: The battery pack (4) according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the battery cell (22) preferably includes a pair of electrical terminals (23) located on the top surface of the battery cell (22) and the pair of electrical terminals are opposite to the base plate (8) on which the battery cell (22) is arranged in a direction along the third axis (z).

[0107] Example 14: A battery pack (4) according to any of the preceding examples, comprising at least two of the battery layers (6) stacked on top of each other along the third axis (z).

[0108] Example 15: According to the battery pack (4) of Example 14, at least two of the battery layers (6) stacked on top of each other along the third axis (z) are mechanically connected to each other via the frame device (18).

[0109] Example 16: According to the battery pack (4) of Example 15, at least two adjacent stacked battery layers (6) of the at least two battery layers (6) stacked on top of each other along the third axis (z) are mechanically connected to each other by one or more third fasteners (36).

[0110] Example 17: According to the battery pack of Example 16, at least one of the one or more third fasteners (36) is disposed in complementary holes (361, 362) of the frame device (18) of the at least two adjacent stacked battery layers (6), wherein one of the complementary holes (361) in the frame device has a fastener opening (3611) that can be accessed from a side (181) of the frame device (18), the side being directed away from the frame device (18) in a direction along the first axis (x) or in a direction along the second axis (y).

[0111] Example 18: According to the battery pack of Example 17, the fastener opening (3611) is provided in the recess (182) on the side (181).

[0112] Example 19: A battery pack (4) according to any one of Examples 12 to 18, comprising a pair of covers (38), wherein each of the pair of covers (38) is fixed to one of the frame devices (18) such that the plurality of battery layers (6) are located between the pair of covers (38) along the third axis (z), and each of the plurality of cell stacks (20) is closed by the frame device (18) and the pair of covers (38).

[0113] Example 20: The battery pack (4) according to Example 19 includes a pair of outer gaskets (40), wherein each of the pair of outer gaskets (40) is located between one of the pair of covers (38) and one of the frame devices (18) to which the cover (38) is fixed, and wherein each of the pair of outer gaskets (40) is configured to seal between the cover (38) and the frame device (18).

[0114] Example 21: A battery pack (4) according to any one of Examples 12 to 20, comprising an intermediate gasket (42) wherein the intermediate gasket (42) is located between the frame devices (18) of adjacent battery layers (6), and wherein the intermediate gasket (42) is configured to seal between the frame devices (18).

[0115] Example 22: A vehicle comprising a battery pack (4) according to any one of Examples 1 to 21.

[0116] The terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “described” are intended to also include the plural forms. 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 “comprising” and / or “including”, when used herein, indicate the presence of the stated features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0117] 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 used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element.

[0118] In this document, relative terms such as “below,” “above,” “upper,” “lower,” “horizontal,” or “vertical” may be used to describe the relationship between one element and another, as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that these terms, along with those discussed above, are intended to cover different device orientations in addition to those depicted in the figures. It should be understood that when an element is referred to as “connected” or “coupled” to another element, the element may be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intermediate elements present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another element, there are no intermediate elements present.

[0119] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It should also be understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms used herein shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the context of this specification and the relevant field, and not in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0120] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and shown in the accompanying drawings; rather, those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes and modifications can be made within the scope of this disclosure and the appended claims. Aspects have been disclosed in the drawings and description for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting purposes, and the scope of this disclosure is set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A battery pack (4) having a first extension along a first axis (x), a second extension along a second axis (y), and a third extension along a third axis (z), wherein the first axis, the second axis, and the third axis (x, y, z) are perpendicular, the battery pack (4) comprising a battery pack layer (6), the battery pack layer (6) comprising: - A base plate (8), the base plate including a first support surface (10) facing away from the base plate (8) in a first direction (d1) along the third axis (z), and also including a second support surface (12) facing away from the base plate (8) in a second direction (d2) opposite to the first direction (d1). - A first battery stack layer (14), which is disposed on the first support surface (10). - A second battery stack layer (16), which is disposed on the second support surface (12). - A frame assembly (18), mechanically connected to the base plate (8) and enclosing the first battery stack and the second battery stack (14, 16), as shown in a cross-section perpendicular to the third axis (z). The first battery stack (14) and the second battery stack (16) each include: - Multiple cell stacks (20), each cell stack comprising multiple battery cells (22) stacked together, And the frame device (18) mentioned above includes: - A pair of sidewalls (24) extending along the first axis (x), wherein the plurality of cell stacks (20) are located between the pair of sidewalls (24) along the second axis (y). - A pair of end members (25) extending along the second axis (y) and mechanically connected to the pair of sidewalls (24), wherein the plurality of cell stacks (20) are located between the pair of end members (25).

2. The battery pack (4) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of battery cells (22) of the respective battery cell stacks are stacked along the second axis (y), and wherein the plurality of cell stacks (20) are arranged along the first axis (x).

3. The battery pack (4) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the battery pack layer further comprises a beam member (26) extending along the second axis (y) and mechanically connecting the pair of sidewalls (24), and wherein the beam member (26) is located between adjacent cell stacks (20).

4. The battery pack (4) according to claim 3, wherein the crossbeam member (26”) is attached to the base plate (8) via at least one first fastener (29).

5. The battery pack (4) according to claim 4, wherein the crossbeam member (26”) is arranged on one of the first support surface (10) and the second support surface (12), wherein the battery pack (4) is configured such that the at least one first fastener (29) for attaching the crossbeam member (26”) to the base plate (8) has been inserted from the other of the first support surface (10) and the second support surface (12).

6. The battery pack (4) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the battery pack layer includes a clamping member (28) configured to clamp at least one of the battery cells (22), wherein the clamping member (28) is mechanically connected to the frame device (18) enclosing the at least one battery cell (22) and / or mechanically connected to the base plate (8) on which the at least one battery cell (22) is disposed, such that the clamping member (28) applies a clamping force toward the base plate (8) on which the at least one battery cell (22) is disposed through the at least one battery cell (22).

7. The battery pack (4) according to claim 6, which also depends on any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the clamping member (28) is configured to clamp at least one of the battery cells (22) in at least one of the adjacent cell stacks (20) located between the beam member (26), and wherein the clamping member (28) is mechanically connected to the beam member (26) such as via a second fastener (30).

8. The battery pack (4) according to claim 7, wherein the clamping member (28) extends along the first axis (x) such that the clamping member (28) and the beam member (26) form a T-shape, as shown in the cross section perpendicular to the second axis (y), wherein at least one of the battery cells (22) in each of the adjacent cell stacks (20) between which the beam member (26) is located is clamped by the clamping member (28).

9. The battery pack (4) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base plate (8) is a cooling plate (8) and the cooling plate includes at least one coolant conduit (82) for coolant.

10. The battery pack (4) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least two of the battery layers (6) stacked on top of each other along the third axis (z).

11. The battery pack (4) according to claim 10, wherein at least two of the battery layers (6) stacked on top of each other along the third axis (z) are mechanically connected to each other via the frame device (18).

12. The battery pack (4) according to claim 11, wherein at least two adjacent stacked battery layers (6) of the at least two battery layers (6) stacked on top of each other along the third axis (z) are mechanically connected to each other by one or more third fasteners (36).

13. The battery pack of claim 12, wherein at least one of the one or more third fasteners (36) is disposed in complementary holes (361, 362) of the frame device (18) of the at least two adjacent stacked battery layers (6), wherein one of the complementary holes (361) in the frame device has a fastener opening (3611) accessible from a side (181) of the frame device (18), the side being directed away from the frame device (18) in a direction along the first axis (x) or in a direction along the second axis (y).

14. The battery pack according to claim 13, wherein the fastener opening (3611) is provided in a recess (182) on the side (181).

15. A vehicle comprising a battery pack (4) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

Images