Battery module, battery system, and vehicle

Abstract

A battery module, a battery system, and a vehicle are disclosed. The battery module includes: a battery cell stack including a plurality of battery cells stacked along a first direction, each battery cell including a case including a first terminal and a second terminal on a terminal side of the case and an exhaust outlet between the first terminal and the second terminal; and a first battery module management unit including a first battery module management unit housing having a base portion and first and second leg portions. The base portion is arranged in front of a first battery cell of the battery cell stack. The first leg portion projects from the base portion to cover the first terminal of the first battery cell, and the second leg portion projects from the base portion to cover the second terminal of the first battery cell. The exhaust outlet of the first battery cell is positioned in a gap between the first and second leg portions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure relates to a battery system having measures to prevent particle deposition in critical sections during thermal runaway. Background Technology

[0002] A battery pack is a group of any number (typically identical) battery modules or individual battery cells. Battery modules, or individual battery cells, can be configured in series, parallel, or series / parallel connections to provide desired voltage, capacity, and / or power density. The components of a battery pack include the individual battery modules and interconnects that provide conductivity between them.

[0003] Static control of battery power output and charging is insufficient to meet the power demands of various devices connected to the battery system. Therefore, a stable information exchange is employed between the controllers of the battery system and the devices. This information includes the battery system's actual state of charge (SoC), potential electrical performance, charging capacity, and internal resistance, as well as the actual or predicted power demand or surplus of the devices. Thus, a battery system typically includes a Battery Management System (BMS) and multiple Battery Module Management (BMM) units. The BMS acquires and processes such system-level information, while the BMM units, which are part of the system's battery modules, acquire and process module-level related information. The BMS typically measures system voltage, system current, localized temperatures at different locations within the system housing, and insulation resistance between charged components and the system housing. Furthermore, the BMM units typically measure the individual cell voltage and temperature within the battery modules.

[0004] Therefore, BMS is provided for managing battery packs, such as by protecting the battery from operation outside its safe operating area (or parameters), monitoring its status, calculating auxiliary data, reporting this data, controlling its environment, certifying it, and / or balancing it.

[0005] In abnormal operating conditions, the battery pack should be disconnected from the load connected to its terminals. Therefore, the battery system may further include a battery disconnect unit (BDU) electrically connected between the battery modules and the battery system terminals. Thus, the BDU is the primary interface between the battery pack and the vehicle's electrical system. The BDU includes electromechanical switches that open or close high-current paths between the battery pack and the electrical system. The BDU provides feedback, such as voltage and current measurements, to the battery control unit (BCU) accompanying the battery modules. Based on the feedback received from the BDU, the BCU controls the switches in the BDU using low-current paths. The primary functions of the BDU may include current sensing and controlling the current flow between the battery pack and the electrical system. The BDU may further manage additional functions such as external charging and pre-charging.

[0006] The exothermic decomposition of a single cell can lead to what is known as thermal runaway. Generally, thermal runaway describes a process accelerated by rising temperatures, releasing energy that further increases the temperature. Thermal runaway occurs when rising temperatures alter conditions in a way that leads to further increases in temperature, often resulting in destructive consequences. In rechargeable battery systems, thermal runaway is associated with a strongly exothermic reaction accelerated by rising temperatures. During thermal runaway, the temperature of a single cell rises incredibly rapidly, and the stored energy is released very suddenly. In extreme cases, thermal runaway can cause a single cell to explode and catch fire. In rare cases, it can cause irreparable damage to the cell.

[0007] When a battery cell is heated above a critical temperature (e.g., above approximately 150°C), it can enter thermal runaway. Generally, temperatures outside the safe zone on the low or high side can cause irreversible damage to the battery cell, thus potentially triggering thermal runaway. Thermal runaway can also occur due to internal or external short circuits within the battery cell or poor battery maintenance. For example, overcharging or fast charging can lead to thermal runaway.

[0008] During thermal runaway, the faulty battery cell can reach temperatures exceeding approximately 700°C. Furthermore, large amounts of hot gases are ejected from the interior of the faulty cell through vents in the cell casing into the battery pack. The main components of the emitted gases are H2, CO2, CO, electrolyte vapor, and other hydrocarbons. Therefore, the emitted gases are flammable and potentially toxic. The emitted gases also cause an increase in gas pressure within the battery pack. In the worst-case scenario, the high temperature causes the process to spread to adjacent cells and ignite the battery pack. At this stage, the fire is difficult to extinguish.

[0009] Battery Management Systems (BMS) are crucial for the safe operation and optimal performance of rechargeable battery cells and help reduce or minimize the possibility of thermal runaway. For example, if the BMS detects that the temperature is too high, it can regulate the temperature by controlling the cooling fans. However, if a battery cell cannot be cooled and safe conditions cannot be restored, the BMS can deactivate certain battery cells to protect the entire battery system.

[0010] As previously mentioned, battery modules and battery systems include multiple battery cells that can be connected in a series configuration to achieve sufficiently high voltages, thereby providing a powerful energy source for the propulsion of electric vehicles. These battery cells, as well as the electrical interconnections and / or voltage sources, are typically insulated with plastic foil that provides electrical insulation over a normal operating temperature range of up to approximately 150°C.

[0011] However, in the event of a failure of one or more battery cells or voltage sources, overheating may occur, which causes the insulation barrier to melt, resulting in low resistance between parts or components with high differential voltages (typically at least about 20V), which in turn can cause internal short circuits and arcing.

[0012] In the event of thermal runaway of a single battery cell, the environment is heated by the exothermic reaction of the runaway cell. The amount of energy is determined by the size and chemical properties of the cell. Therefore, appropriate thermal insulation should be implemented to stop heat propagation from the remaining cells of the battery module or battery system. Typically, hot debris ejected from the runaway cell usually accumulates at the edges inside the battery system housing (such as the space between the battery module end and the system housing that typically accommodates high-voltage interfaces), which can cause electrical short circuits followed by arcing. Summary of the Invention

[0013] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery module is provided that is incorporated into a system housing, and a space between the ends of the battery cell stack and the system housing for accommodating high-voltage interfaces and additional wiring is shielded to protect the high-voltage interfaces and additional wiring from thermal debris emitted from one or more battery cells affected by thermal runaway. Furthermore, embodiments of this disclosure provide a battery system including a protection mechanism that allows shielding of the space between the ends of the battery module and the system housing.

[0014] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a battery module that shields the space between the ends of a stack of battery cells and the housing of a battery system to protect the space from thermal runaway. Furthermore, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a battery system having the battery module described above.

[0015] This disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. The following description is subject to this limitation. Any disclosure outside the scope of the claims and their equivalents is intended for illustrative and comparative purposes.

[0016] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a battery module includes: a battery cell stack including a plurality of battery cells stacked along a first direction; and a first battery module management unit including a first battery module management unit housing (hereinafter simply referred to as the battery module management housing). Each battery cell includes a housing, the housing including a first terminal, a second terminal on its terminal side, and an exhaust outlet disposed between the first terminal and the second terminal. The first battery module management housing includes a base portion, a first leg portion, and a second leg portion. When viewed in the first direction, the base portion is disposed in front of a first battery cell of the battery cell stack. The first leg portion protrudes from the base portion in the first direction and covers the first terminal of the first battery cell, and the second leg portion protrudes from the base portion in the first direction and covers the second terminal of the first battery cell. A gap is formed between the first leg portion and the second leg portion, and the exhaust outlet of the first battery cell is located in the gap between the first leg portion and the second leg portion.

[0017] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, a battery system includes one or more battery modules as described above.

[0018] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, a vehicle includes at least one of the above-described battery modules and / or at least one of the above-described battery systems.

[0019] Further aspects and features of this disclosure may be learned from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The aspects and features of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description of embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0021] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a battery cell related to the technology.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a top view of the battery module of the related technology.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a top view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A top view of the end portion of the battery module shown.

[0025] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The cross-sectional view of the battery module shown.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a top view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 7This is a top view of a battery system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 8A This is a side view of the end portion of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A The front view of the end portion of the battery module shown.

[0030] Figure 9 This is a side view of the end portion of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 10 This is a side view of the end portion of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Description of embodiments will now be given in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Aspects and features of the embodiments and methods of implementation thereof will be described with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments shown herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey to those skilled in the art the aspects and features of this disclosure.

[0033] Therefore, processes, elements, and techniques that are not considered necessary for a person skilled in the art to have a full understanding of the aspects and features of this disclosure may be omitted or only briefly described.

[0034] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, "connected" to another element or layer, or "bonded" to another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly bonded to the other element or layer, or there may be one or more intermediary elements or layers. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on" another element or layer, "directly connected" to another element or layer, or "directly bonded" to another element or layer, there are no intermediary elements or layers. For example, when a first element is described as being "bonded" or "connected" to a second element, the first element can be directly bonded or connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly bonded or connected to the second element via one or more intermediary elements.

[0035] In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be exaggerated for clarity of illustration. The same reference numerals denote the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of this disclosure, the use of "may" refers to "one or more embodiments of this disclosure." Expressions such as "at least one of" and "any one of" modify the entire list of elements, not individual elements, when following a list of elements. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b, or c" means only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof. As used herein, the terms "use," "using," and "being used" may be considered synonymous with the terms "utilize," "exploit," and "be utilized," respectively. As used herein, the terms "substantially," "about," and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than terms of degree and are intended to describe inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0036] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another element, component, region, layer, or segment. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or segment without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0037] For ease of description, spatial relation terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” and “above” are used herein to describe the relationship of an element or feature to other elements or features as shown in the figures. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures, spatial relation terms are also intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would be oriented “above” or “above” said other elements or features. Therefore, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. Devices may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relation descriptions used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0038] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular form “a” is also intended to include the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that, when used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “including,” and / or “containing” indicate the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0039] In view of the whole of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that each suitable feature of the various embodiments of this disclosure may be combined in part or in whole or in combination with each other, and may be technically linked and operated in a variety of suitable ways, and each embodiment may be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other in any suitable way, unless otherwise stated or implied.

[0040] Furthermore, any numerical range disclosed and / or described herein is intended to include all subranges of the same numerical precision falling within the described range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between (and including) the described minimum value of 1.0 and the described maximum value of 10.0, i.e., all subranges having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as, for example, 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit described herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits falling within it, and any minimum numerical limit described in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits falling within it. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification (including the claims) to expressly describe any subranges within the range expressly described herein. All such ranges are intended to be inherently described in this specification.

[0041] Electronic or electrical devices and / or any other related devices or components according to embodiments of the present disclosure described herein can be implemented using any suitable hardware, firmware (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits), software, or a combination of software, firmware, and hardware. Furthermore, various components of these devices can be implemented on flexible printed circuit films, tape-and-carrier packages (TCPs), printed circuit boards (PCBs), or formed on a substrate. The electrical connections or interconnections described herein can be implemented, for example, by wires or conductive elements on a PCB or another circuit carrier. Conductive elements may include metallized elements (e.g., surface-metallized elements and / or pins), and / or may include conductive polymers or ceramics. Additional electrical energy may be transmitted via wireless connections (e.g., using electromagnetic radiation and / or light).

[0042] Furthermore, the various components of these devices can be processes or threads running on one or more processors in one or more computing devices, executing computer program instructions and interacting with other system components to perform the various functions described herein. The computer program instructions are stored in memory, which can be implemented in the computing device using standard storage devices such as, for example, random access memory (RAM). The computer program instructions can also be stored in other non-transitory computer-readable media such as, for example, CD-ROMs, flash drives, etc.

[0043] 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 will also be understood that terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) shall be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and / or the context of this specification, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0044] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery module includes: a battery cell stack including a plurality of battery cells stacked along a first direction; and a first battery module management unit including a first battery module management unit housing (hereinafter simply referred to as the battery module management housing). Each battery cell includes a housing, the housing including a first terminal, a second terminal on the terminal side of the housing, and an exhaust outlet disposed between the first terminal and the second terminal. The first battery module management housing includes a base portion, a first leg portion, and a second leg portion. When viewed in the first direction, the base portion is disposed in front of a first battery cell of the battery cell stack. The first leg portion protrudes from the base portion in the first direction and covers the first terminal of the first battery cell, and in some embodiments, covers the first terminal of an adjacent battery cell. The second leg portion protrudes from the base portion in the first direction and covers the second terminal of the first battery cell, and in some embodiments, covers the second terminal of an adjacent battery cell. A gap is formed between the first leg portion and the second leg portion. Furthermore, the exhaust outlet of the first battery cell (and any covered adjacent battery cells) is located in the gap between the first leg portion and the second leg portion.

[0045] The first battery module management housing has a U-shape disposed above the battery cell stack, with the legs of the U covering at least some of the terminals. A gap formed between the legs of the U is disposed in the area of ​​the vent valve. Therefore, the shape and placement of the first battery module management housing ensure that each vent valve is not covered by the first battery module management housing.

[0046] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, when the battery module is implemented into the housing of a battery system, protection is provided in the region at the ends of the battery cell stack to protect the wires (such as high-voltage interfaces) located there in the event of thermal runaway of one or more battery cells. In other words, the housing of the battery measurement or cell monitoring system (e.g., a battery module management housing) is designed to form a barrier against debris generated by thermal runaway, which would otherwise at least largely deposit on the edges where wires exist between the battery cell stack and the battery system housing. Therefore, in a battery system equipped with one or more battery modules, debris is distributed in sections of the battery system with a very small potential to cause arcing or overheating in other battery cells.

[0047] The first terminal, the exhaust outlet, and the second terminal can be arranged parallel to a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Each terminal side can be arranged perpendicular to a third direction and can face the third direction, which is perpendicular to both the first and second directions.

[0048] The first terminal can be arranged along a straight line extending parallel to the first direction. The second terminal can be arranged along a straight line extending parallel to the first direction. The exhaust outlet can be arranged along a straight line extending parallel to the first direction.

[0049] When viewed along the second direction, the gap formed between the first leg portion and the second leg portion can be attributed to the distance between the first leg portion and the second leg portion.

[0050] The first battery module management unit may further include a first battery module management electronics housed in a first battery module management housing.

[0051] A battery cell stack may include at least two, at least three, at least four, or at least five battery cells. For example, a battery cell stack may include 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 battery cells.

[0052] The first battery module management electronics may be electrically connected to one or more battery cells. The first battery module management electronics may be configured to monitor the current and / or voltage generated by the battery cell stack. The first battery module management electronics may be configured to monitor the current and / or voltage generated by one or more of the individual battery cells. The first battery module management electronics may be configured to monitor the current and / or voltage generated by each of the individual battery cells.

[0053] One or more battery cells may be equipped with a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the respective battery cell. In some embodiments, all battery cells may be equipped with a temperature sensor.

[0054] One or more battery cells may be equipped with a pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure inside the respective battery cell. In some embodiments, all battery cells may be equipped with a pressure sensor.

[0055] The first battery module management electronics can be configured to receive signals from one or more pressure sensors and / or one or more temperature sensors. The first battery module management electronics can be configured to evaluate the signals received from one or more pressure sensors and / or one or more temperature sensors. The first battery module management electronics can be configured to assess whether one or more battery cells are in a state of thermal event (such as thermal runaway) based on the signals received from one or more pressure sensors and / or one or more temperature sensors.

[0056] The base portion may have a hollow cuboid shape. The hollow cuboid shape of the base portion may have a first opening in the region where the first leg portion connects to the base portion. The hollow cuboid shape of the base portion may have a second opening in the region where the second leg portion connects to the base portion. The base portion may extend across the width of the first battery cell relative to a second direction. The first leg portion may have a hollow cuboid shape. The hollow cuboid shape of the first leg portion may be open in the region where the first leg portion connects to the base portion. The second leg portion may have a hollow cuboid shape. The hollow cuboid shape of the second leg portion may be open in the region where the second leg portion connects to the base portion.

[0057] Each of the base portion, the first leg portion, and the second leg portion may include a cavity adapted to accommodate at least a portion of the first battery module management electronics. The cavities surrounded by the base portion, the first leg portion, and the second leg portion may be connected such that a continuous cavity is formed within the first battery module management housing.

[0058] In one embodiment of the battery module, the first leg portion and the second leg portion have the same extension (e.g., the same length) relative to a first direction.

[0059] In the first direction, the first leg portion may cover only the first terminal of the first battery cell, may cover only the first and second battery cells, may cover only the first terminal of a battery cell group including only the first, third, and second battery cells, or may cover only the first terminal of a battery cell group including only the first to fourth battery cells. In other embodiments, the first leg portion may cover at least the first to fifth battery cells.

[0060] In the first direction, the second leg portion may cover only the second terminal of the first battery cell, only the second terminals of the first and second battery cells, the second terminals of a battery cell group including only the first, third, and second battery cells, or the second terminals of a battery cell group including only the first to fourth battery cells. In other embodiments, the second leg portion may cover at least the second terminals of the first to fifth battery cells.

[0061] In one embodiment, the battery module includes a first end plate, which, when viewed in a first direction, is positioned in front of a first battery cell and configured to support the first battery cell relative to the first direction.

[0062] In one embodiment, the battery module includes a second end plate, which, when viewed in a first direction, is positioned behind the last battery cell and configured to support the last battery cell against the first direction.

[0063] In one embodiment of the battery module, the first end plate has a prismatic shape. The base portion of the first battery module management housing is disposed on the top surface of the first end plate, the top surface facing a direction perpendicular to the terminal side of the battery cell.

[0064] In one embodiment of the battery module, a first cavity (or gap) is formed between a first leg portion and a stack of battery cells, with respect to a direction perpendicular to the terminal side of the battery cell. A first terminal, covered by the first leg portion, is disposed in the first cavity.

[0065] In one embodiment of the battery module, a second cavity (or gap) is formed between a second leg portion and a stack of battery cells, with the second terminal covered by the second leg portion disposed in the second cavity.

[0066] In one embodiment of the battery module, the first leg portion has a wedge shape that tapers in a first direction, such that the distance between the battery cell stack and the top surface of the first leg portion decreases in the first direction.

[0067] In one embodiment of the battery module, the second leg portion has a wedge shape that tapers in a first direction, such that the distance between the top surfaces of the battery cell stack and the second leg portion decreases in the first direction.

[0068] The taper of the first leg portion in the first direction can be stepless (e.g., continuous) or stepped. Similarly, the taper of the second leg portion in the first direction can be stepless (e.g., continuous) or stepped.

[0069] In one embodiment, the battery module further includes a first busbar electrically connected to each first terminal, the first busbar being covered by a first protective cover at least in a region of the first leg portion.

[0070] The first busbar can be arranged in the region of the first leg portion in the first cavity formed between the first leg portion and the battery cell stack.

[0071] In one embodiment of the battery module, the first protective cover includes: a first base portion mounted on the terminal side of at least some battery cells (which are covered by a first leg portion) and extending in a first direction in the region between a first terminal of the at least some battery cells (which are covered by the first leg portion) and an exhaust outlet; and a first flat portion disposed on the first base portion and extending between the first leg portion and the at least some battery cells (which are covered by the first leg portion).

[0072] In one embodiment, the battery module further includes a second busbar electrically connected to each second terminal, the second busbar being covered by a second protective cover at least in the region of the second leg portion.

[0073] The second busbar can be arranged in the region of the second leg portion in the second cavity formed between the second leg portion and the battery cell stack.

[0074] In one embodiment of the battery module, the second protective cover includes: a second base portion mounted on the terminal side of at least some battery cells (which are covered by the second leg portion) and extending in a first direction in the region between the second terminals of the at least some battery cells (which are covered by the second leg portion) and the exhaust outlet; and a second flat portion disposed on the second base portion and extending between the second leg portion and the at least some battery cells (which are covered by the second leg portion).

[0075] In one embodiment, the battery module further includes a second battery module management unit. The second battery module management unit includes a second battery module management housing. The second battery module management housing includes a base portion, a first leg portion, and a second leg portion. When viewed along a first direction, the base portion of the second battery module management housing is positioned behind the last battery cell in the battery cell stack. The first leg portion of the second battery module management housing protrudes from its base portion against the first direction and covers one or more of the first terminals. The second leg portion of the second battery module management housing protrudes from its base portion against the first direction and covers one or more of the second terminals. A gap is formed between the first leg portion and the second leg portion of the second battery module management housing. Each exhaust outlet is located in the gap between the first leg portion and the second leg portion of the second battery module management housing.

[0076] The second battery module management unit may further include a second battery module management electronics housed within a second battery module management housing.

[0077] The second battery module management housing can be formed in the same way as the first battery module management housing. For example, by mirroring the shape of the first battery module management housing on a plane perpendicular to the first direction, the second battery module management housing can have a shape that is a mirror image of the shape of the first battery module management housing.

[0078] The material of the first battery module management housing can withstand temperatures up to the range of thermal debris generated during thermal runaway. For example, the material of the first battery module management housing can withstand temperatures up to about 800°C, or, for example, up to about 1000°C, or up to about 1200°C, or up to at least about 1500°C. Accordingly, the material of the second battery module management housing can withstand temperatures up to the range of thermal debris generated during thermal runaway. For example, the material of the second battery module management housing can withstand temperatures up to about 800°C, or, for example, up to about 1000°C, or up to about 1200°C, or up to at least about 1500°C.

[0079] The material of the first battery module management housing and / or the material of the second battery module management housing may be a thermally insulating material. The first battery module management housing and / or the second battery module management housing may be covered with a thermally insulating material on their outer surface and / or their inner surface.

[0080] The first battery module management housing and / or the second battery module management housing may be made of an electrically insulating material (such as plastic, for example, heat-resistant plastic material).

[0081] According to another embodiment, a battery system includes one or more battery modules as described above.

[0082] The battery system protects the area between the sidewalls of the battery cell stack and the battery system housing from thermal particle deposition and further from arc discharge during thermal events (e.g., thermal runaway) by a specially formed housing (BMM housing) of the BMM cell or cell monitoring system placed on top of the cell stack.

[0083] In one embodiment, the battery system further includes a battery system housing that houses each battery cell stack. The battery cell stacks of the battery module are oriented parallel to each other in a stacking direction, and each battery cell stack has a first end pointing in the opposite direction to the stacking direction and a second end pointing in the stacking direction. The battery system housing includes a front wall extending perpendicular to the stacking direction and a rear wall extending perpendicular to the stacking direction. For each battery cell stack, a first space is formed between the first end of the battery cell stack and the front wall, and a second space is formed between the second end of the battery cell stack and the rear wall. Each of the first battery module management housings disposed at the first end of the battery cell stack is adjacent to the front wall and covers the corresponding first space.

[0084] In addition, each of the second battery module management housings arranged at the second end of the battery cell stack can be close to the rear wall and cover the corresponding second space.

[0085] High-voltage interfaces can be accommodated in the first and / or second spaces.

[0086] In one implementation of the battery system, any two adjacent battery module management housings are connected to each other by a connecting plate in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the battery cell stack.

[0087] The battery system housing may further include a bottom wall. For each connecting plate, a space may be formed between the connecting plate and the bottom wall. In some or each of the spaces formed between the connecting plate and the bottom wall, module connectors or battery cell stack connectors may be disposed. Thus, these module connectors or battery cell stack connectors are protected from thermal debris generated in the event of thermal runaway.

[0088] According to another embodiment, a vehicle includes at least one battery module as described above and / or at least one battery system as described above.

[0089] For example, the vehicle could be a hybrid vehicle or an all-electric vehicle.

[0090] According to another embodiment, at least one battery module as described above and / or at least one battery system as described above can be provided in an electrical device, which may be one of an energy storage system (ESS), an electric scooter, and an electric bicycle.

[0091] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a battery cell 1 illustrating a related technology used in, for example, battery modules for electric or hybrid vehicles. For ease of the following description, in Figure 1The diagram illustrates a Cartesian coordinate system with x, y, and z axes. The shown battery cell 1 has a parallelepiped (e.g., prism) shape, substantially defined by a shell 1'. The shell 1' is, for example, a rigid shell, which may be made of a metallic material (such as aluminum). The shell 1' may be a can or barrel comprising six substantially flat outer surfaces (or may be formed from said can or barrel). The shell 1' has a pair of congruent principal sides arranged opposite each other (in this pair, only the principal side 12 facing the x-direction is...). Figure 1 (As can be seen in the image), each main side is perpendicular to the x-axis. Furthermore, shell 1' has a pair of congruent transverse sides arranged opposite each other (of this pair, only the transverse side 13 facing away from the y-direction is visible), each transverse side being perpendicular to the y-axis. Shell 1' also has a lower side (as can be seen in the image). Figure 1 (Invisible in the middle) and top 16, bottom and top 16 are congruent and arranged opposite each other, each of bottom and top 16 is perpendicular to the z-axis. (As in...) Figure 1 As can be seen, the main side of battery cell 1 forms the side of the battery cell with the largest (or maximal) surface area.

[0092] Because the casing 1' can be made of a metal (such as aluminum), it can be conductive. Therefore, the casing 1' can be coated with an insulating material (or insulating foil) that provides electrical insulation. However, the insulating material is not thermally stable enough to maintain electrical insulation at temperatures up to about 1000°C or higher that may occur in the event of an exhaust event. As will be described in more detail later, the battery module or battery system according to embodiments of this disclosure includes a casing for a BMM cell or cell monitoring electronics, which is placed at the ends of the battery cell stack to protect those areas (when electrically connected in a modular manner) from the root causes of particle deposition and arc discharge.

[0093] First terminal T1 and second terminal T2 are arranged on the upper side 16 of battery cell 1. Therefore, the upper side 16 will be referred to hereinafter as the "terminal side" of battery cell 1. Terminals T1 and T2 allow battery cell 1 to be electrically connected to an external circuit or device. First terminal T1 can be the negative terminal of battery cell 1, and second terminal T2 can be the positive terminal of battery cell 1. Furthermore, an exhaust outlet V is arranged on the upper side 16 and between the first terminal T1 and the second terminal T2. Figure 1 As shown, the first terminal T1, the exhaust outlet V, and the second terminal T2 are arranged in this order along the y-direction of the coordinate system.

[0094] In the event of a thermal event (such as thermal runaway occurring in battery cell 1), exhaust gases can be ejected (or emitted) from battery cell 1 through exhaust outlet V. Inside battery cell 1, an exhaust valve is typically installed upstream of exhaust outlet V, and the exhaust valve is configured to open (or burst) if the gas pressure inside the battery cell exceeds a reference (or predefined) value, and remain closed (or sealed) under other conditions (i.e., when the gas pressure inside the battery cell is below the reference (or predefined) value). Therefore, exhaust gases can pass through the exhaust valve arranged inside battery cell 1 before being emitted via exhaust outlet V.

[0095] By stacking multiple similar items along the first direction Figure 1 The battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z shown in the diagram form a stack of battery cells (hereinafter referred to as a "cell stack" or simply a "stack") 10, an example of which is shown in [reference needed]. Figure 2 As shown in the diagram. For example, the first direction (hereinafter referred to as the "stack direction") can correspond to the direction shown in the diagram. Figure 1 The x-axis of the coordinate system is parallel to the direction of the x-axis. Therefore, any one of the individual battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z can be oriented in the stack 10 such that its main side extends perpendicular to the x-axis of the coordinate system. Typically, multiple battery cell stacks 10 are included in a battery system.

[0096] In the battery cell stack 10, adjacent (or adjacent) battery cells may be directly abutting (i.e., in contact) with each other, or may be spaced apart by cell spacers. Cell spacers can be used to adjust the correct length of the stack 10. Furthermore, for example, given the heat generated during thermal runaway, cell spacers (also referred to as “gap fillers”) can suppress or at least reduce heat propagation along the stack 10. One or more cell spacers may be combined in (or included in) the battery cell stack 10.

[0097] Furthermore, the battery cell stack 10 can be fixed by end plates. For example, see reference... Figure 2The first end plate 21 can be positioned in front of the first battery cell 1a in the stack 10, as observed in the stacking direction (e.g., the x-direction), thereby providing mechanical support for the first battery cell 1a in the stacking direction. Correspondingly, the second end plate 22 can be positioned behind the last battery cell 1z in the stack 10, as observed in the stacking direction, thereby providing mechanical support for the last battery cell 1z against the stacking direction. The end plates 21 and 22 help maintain the alignment of the battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z, prevent movement, and counteract forces that may cause deformation or misalignment within the battery cell stack 10. For example, the end plates 21 and 22 counteract the bulging forces generated during use due to the expansion of the battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z, thus preventing deformation and maintaining the alignment of the individual battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z. This ensures the integrity of the battery cell stack 10, especially during handling and operation.

[0098] The battery cell stack 10 (together with end plates 21 and 22) can be housed within a housing 8. The housing 8 is part of the battery module or battery system that includes the battery cell stack 10. Figure 2 The image shows a portion of the front wall 81 and a portion of the rear wall 82 of the housing 8, each of which is parallel to the yz plane of the coordinate system (i.e., perpendicular to the coordinate system). Figure 2 (The drawing plane) extends. For simplicity, Figure 2 The bottom wall is not shown. A first space 71 is formed between the first end plate 21 and the front wall 81. Similarly, a second space 72 is formed between the second end plate 22 and the rear wall 82.

[0099] because Figure 2 The individual battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z within the stack 10 shown have the same or substantially similar design, and the first terminal T of each battery cell 1a, 1b, ..., 1z is... 1a T 1b ... T 1z They are arranged one behind the other on a straight line parallel to the stacking direction (e.g., the x-direction). Similarly, the second terminals T of the battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z 2a T 2b ... T 2z They are arranged one behind the other on a straight line parallel to the stacking direction. In addition, the exhaust outlets V in the battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z are arranged one behind the other on a straight line parallel to the stacking direction.

[0100] Battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z can be connected in series or in parallel. When they are connected in parallel, the first terminal T of battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z... 1a T 1b... T 1z Having the same polarity (e.g., being the negative electrode of a single battery cell), the second terminal T 2a T 2b ... T 2z Each of them has a first terminal T 1a T 1b ... T 1z The electrodes have opposite polarities (for example, the second terminal T2 is the positive electrode of the battery cell). Therefore, the first terminals T of battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z... 1a T 1b ... T 1z Each can be connected to the common first busbar 31 (see example) Figure 5 ), and the second terminal T of battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z 2a T 2b ... T 2z Each can be connected to a common second busbar 32 (see example). Figure 5 Therefore, the first busbar 31 and the second busbar 32 can be used as terminals for the entire battery cell stack 10.

[0101] Alternatively, when the battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z of the stack 10 are connected in series, the first terminal T 1a T 1b ... T 1z The polarity alternates along the stack 10, and correspondingly, the second terminal T 2a T 2b ... T 2z The polarity of the cells also alternates along the stack 10. For example, when viewed along the stacking direction (e.g., the x-direction), the first terminals T of the cells 1a, 1c, ..., 1y located at odd positions in the stack 10 are... 1a T 1c ... T 1y Each forms the negative electrode of its corresponding battery cell, while the first terminals T of the battery cells 1b, 1d, ..., 1z located at even-numbered positions in the stack 10 are... 1b T 1d ... T 1z Each forms the positive electrode of its respective battery cell, and correspondingly, the second terminals T of the battery cells 1a, 1c, ..., 1y arranged at odd-numbered positions in the stack 10 are... 2a T 2c ... T 2y Each forms the positive electrode of its corresponding battery cell, while the second terminals T of the battery cells 1b, 1d, ..., 1z located at even-numbered positions in the stack 10 are... 2b T2d ... T 2z Each cell forms its own negative electrode. Thus, cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z can be electrically connected in a chain sequence, where the positive terminal of each cell (except the last cell 1z) is connected to the negative terminal of the corresponding subsequent cell. For example, the positive terminal T of cell 1a... 2a The negative terminal T connected to the battery cell 1b 2b This pattern continues until the positive terminal T of the second-to-last cell 1y in the stack 10 is reached. 2y Connected to the negative terminal T of the last battery cell 1z 2z The remaining terminals, namely the negative terminal T of the first battery cell 1a. 1a and the positive terminal T of the last battery cell 1z 1z They are used as the negative and positive terminals of the entire battery cell stack 10, respectively.

[0102] Typically, the high-voltage interface is arranged (or placed) in the space between the end of the battery cell stack 10 (which, depending on the implementation, is formed by a battery cell or an end plate) and a corresponding adjacent wall of the housing 8 that houses the battery cell stack 10. Therefore, in Figure 2 In the example shown, the high-voltage interface may be located in the first space 71 and / or the second space 72. The high-voltage interface may include a module connector for connecting two adjacent battery modules or a stack connector for connecting two adjacent battery cell stacks 10.

[0103] In the event of thermal runaway in one or more of the battery cells included in the stack 10, the hot debris generated and discharged from the affected battery cell is typically located (or accumulates) at the edges inside the battery system. Therefore, most of the debris will accumulate in these edge regions of the battery system (such as the aforementioned spaces between the ends of the battery cell stack 10 and the corresponding adjacent walls of the housing 8). Thus, in Figure 2 In the example shown, most of the debris generated by a thermal event (e.g., thermal runaway) E (indicated schematically by a flame symbol) occurring in one or more of the battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z will accumulate in the first space 71 and / or the second space 72. Therefore, if a high-voltage interface is placed in the first space 71 and / or the second space 72, there is a high risk of electrical short circuit followed by arcing.

[0104] Figure 3A battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, having anti-particle deposition measures to prevent particle deposition between the battery cell stack 10 and the housing 8 at the location of the high-voltage interface. Debris generated due to thermal runaway typically deposits at the outer edge of the interior of the battery system housing. Figure 3 This is a schematic top view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 The battery module shown includes the reference Figure 2 The described battery cell stack 10 is similar to a battery cell stack. Furthermore, a battery module management (BMM) unit is mounted at a first end of the battery cell stack 10, specifically at the end opposite to the battery module's stacking direction (e.g., the x-direction). The BMM unit includes a BMM unit housing 51 (hereinafter simply referred to as BMM housing 51, and in embodiments described later, also referred to as a first BMM housing 51) and BMM electronics housed within the BMM housing 51. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The image shows a more detailed view of the BMM housing 51 from different directions.

[0105] Figure 4 Is it like this? Figure 3 A schematic top view of the end portion of the battery module shown. Figure 4 The end portion shown includes a BMM housing 51, and, as observed along the x-direction, includes the first three battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c of the battery cell stack 10; in other words, Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The drawn battery module is on the front wall 81 and Figure 3 A magnified top view of the section between the drawn virtual dashed lines AA. Figure 4 This is a top view of the BMM housing 51, which, as will be described in more detail later, prevents particle deposition in the region (or area) of the high-voltage interface between the cell stack 10 and the housing 8 during thermal runaway.

[0106] also, Figure 5 Is it like this? Figure 4 The battery module shown is a view of the portion against the x-direction. To show the arrangement of components such as terminals covered by the BMM housing 51, the BMM housing 51 is shown as transparent in the top view of the battery module. Figures 3 to 5 The basic concept of an anti-particle deposition measure is shown, which includes protecting the high-voltage interface at the end of the battery cell stack 10 from thermal particle deposition during thermal events (e.g., thermal runaway).

[0107] Relative to the z-direction, the BMM housing 51 is positioned above the battery cell stack 10, as shown below. Figure 5 As shown. See the example if viewed against the z-direction (see example). Figure 3 and Figure 4 The BMM housing 51 has a generally U-shaped appearance including a base portion 510 and first leg portions 511 and second leg portions 512. Along the x-direction, the base portion 510 is arranged in front of the first battery cell 1a in the stack 10. Each of the first leg portions 511 and the second leg portions 512 is connected to the base portion 510 and points in the x-direction from the region of the base portion 510. Relative to the y-direction, the first leg portions 511 and the second leg portions 512 are spaced apart from each other such that a gap G is formed between the first leg portions 511 and the second leg portions 512 (see, for example...). Figure 4 ).

[0108] The size of the gap G between the first leg portion 511 and the second leg portion 512 is designed such that for each of the battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c partially covered by the leg portions 511, 512, the corresponding exhaust outlet V a V b V c Located in the region of gap G. Therefore, in one of these battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c (e.g., in...) Figure 4 The flame symbol E in the example b In the event of an exhaust event in the second battery cell 1b, the exhaust gas can freely escape upward (in the z direction) through the gap G.

[0109] At least in the area of ​​the BMM housing 51, a pair of heat-resistant protective covers 411, 412 are mounted on the battery cell stack 10 to protect the first terminal T located in the area of ​​the BMM housing 51. 1a T 1b T 1c Second terminal T 2a T 2b T 2c And other electrical facilities in this area, such as busbars 31, 32 or cell control units (CCUs) for monitoring and controlling the status of individual battery cells (such as cell voltage or cell temperature). For example, in Figure 4 and Figure 5 As can be seen, the first protective cover 411 is installed on the first terminal T. 1a T 1b T 1c In the area, the second protective cover 412 is installed on the second terminal T 2a T 2b T 2c In the region.

[0110] The first protective cover 411 includes a first base portion 411a and a first flat portion 411b mounted on the first base portion 411a. (For illustration of the first terminal T)1a T 1b T 1c Covered by the first flat portion 411b, the first flat portion 411b (and the first leg portion 511 of the BMM housing 51) Figure 4 The portion shown is transparent. The first base portion 411a is mounted on the terminal side of the battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c, and is located at the first terminal T of these battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c. 1a T 1b T 1c and exhaust outlet V a V b V c The first base portion 411a extends between the terminal sides of battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c and the first flat portion 411b, relative to the z-direction. The first flat portion 411b extends between the first terminal T and the terminal T. 1a T 1b T 1c The region extends above the xy plane of the coordinate system and is spaced apart from the terminal sides of battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c, so as to provide (or form) a spacer for the first terminal T between the terminal sides of the first three battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c and the first flat portion 411b. 1a T 1b T 1c (And possibly, other electrical installations in this area as described above) the first cavity C1. Therefore, in the event of thermal runaway, the first terminal T 1a T 1b T 1c And other electrical facilities in this area are protected from contamination by debris emitted from one or more battery cells.

[0111] The second protective cover 412 is formed and installed relative to the exhaust outlet V of these battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c, which is parallel to the xz plane. a V b V c The intersecting virtual planes are mirror-symmetrical to the first protective cover 411. For example, the second protective cover 412 includes a second base portion 412a and a second flat portion 412b mounted on the second base portion 412a. To illustrate the second terminal T... 2a T 2b T 2c Covered by the second flat portion 412b, the second flat portion 412b (and the second leg portion 512 of the BMM housing 51) Figure 4 The portion shown is transparent. The second base portion 412a is mounted on the terminal side of the battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c, and is located at the second terminal T of these battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c. 2a T2b T 2c and exhaust outlet V a V b V c The second base portion 412a extends along the x-direction. Relative to the z-direction, the second base portion 412a extends between the terminal sides of battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c and the second flat portion 412b. The second flat portion 412b extends between the second terminal T... 2a T 2b T 2c The region extends above the xy plane of the coordinate system and is spaced apart from the terminal sides of battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c, so as to provide a second terminal T between the terminal sides of the first three battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c and the second flat portion 412b. 2a T 2b T 2c (And possibly, other electrical installations in this area as described above) the second cavity C2. Therefore, in the event of thermal runaway, the second terminal T 2a T 2b T 2c And other electrical equipment in this area are protected from contamination by debris emitted from one or more battery cells.

[0112] Although Figure 4 The embodiment shown illustrates that the first protective cover 411 is installed only on the first terminal T of the first three battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c. 1a T 1b T 1c In the region, but in other embodiments, the first protective cover 411 may extend along the entire (or whole) battery cell stack 10 relative to the x-direction. Thus, the first protective cover 411 allows access to the first terminal T of the battery cell stack 10. 1a T 1b ... T 1z Each of them is protected. Furthermore, in Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, the second protective cover 412 is only installed on the second terminal T of the first three battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c. 2a T 2b T 2c In the region. However, in other embodiments, the second protective cover 412 may extend along the entire (or whole) battery cell stack 10 relative to the x-direction. In such an embodiment, the second protective cover 412 allows access to the second terminal T of the battery cell stack 10. 2a T 2b ... T 2z Each of them is protected.

[0113] also, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The embodiment of the battery module shown in the middle part includes a first terminal T connected to the battery cell stack 10. 1a T 1b ... T 1z The first busbar 31 of any one of them and the second terminal T connected to the battery cell stack 10 2a T 2b ... T 2z The second busbar 32 of any one of the first three battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c. In the regions of the first three battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c, the first busbar 31 is housed in the first cavity C1, and similarly, the second busbar 32 is housed in the second cavity C2. Thus, in the region of the BMM housing 51, the first busbar 31 and the second busbar 32 are each also protected from the impact of debris ejected from one or more of the battery cells in the battery cell stack 10 in the event of thermal runaway by the first protective cover 411 and the second protective cover 412.

[0114] Reference Figure 5 The upper surfaces of the base portion 510, the first leg portion 511, and the second leg portion 512 are flush. However, the extension Δz0 of the base portion 510 in the z direction is greater than the extension Δz1 of the first leg portion 511 in the z direction, and also greater than the extension Δz2 of the second leg portion 512 in the z direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension Δz1 of the first leg portion 511 and the extension Δz2 of the second leg portion 512 are equal (i.e., the same, Δz1 = Δz2). With this arrangement, the base portion 510 can be mounted at the horizontal level of the terminal side of the battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z and / or at the horizontal level of the top surface of the first end plate 21, while the bottom surfaces of the first leg portion 511 and the second leg portion 512 are each horizontally spaced from the terminal side of the battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z in the z direction. The distance between the horizontal plane of the terminal sides of battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z and the bottom surface of the first leg portion 511 is large enough to accommodate the first protective cover 411 within the space between the terminal sides of the first three battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c and the bottom surface of the first leg portion 511. Furthermore, the distance between the horizontal plane of the terminal sides of battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z and the bottom surface of the second leg portion 512 is large enough to accommodate the second protective cover 412 within the space between the terminal sides of the first three battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c and the bottom surface of the second leg portion 512. Figure 5In the illustrated embodiment, an additional clearance is provided between the bottom surface of the first leg portion 511 and the top surface of the first flat portion 411b of the first protective cover 411, and an additional clearance is provided between the bottom surface of the second leg portion 512 and the top surface of the second flat portion 412b of the second protective cover 412. However, in other embodiments, the top surfaces of the flat portions 411b, 412b may be close to the bottom surfaces of the respective leg portions 511, 512.

[0115] In addition, refer to Figure 5 The housing 8 accommodating the battery cell stack 10 may include a top wall 86 extending above the BMM housing 51 in a plane parallel to the xy-plane of the coordinate system. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the top wall 86 is spaced apart from the top surface of the BMM housing 51, such that a gap 61 is formed between the top wall 86 and the BMM housing 51. Therefore, exhaust gases and debris discharged from one of the battery cells in the region of the gap G between the first leg portion 511 and the second leg portion 512 can escape not only in the x-direction but also in the y-direction through the gap 61, facilitating the venting process. However, in other embodiments, the top wall 86 may be abutted against the top surface of the BMM housing 51. In some embodiments, the first leg portion 511 and / or the second leg portion 512 may be formed as a wedge shape tapering towards the x-direction, which further improves degassing along the y-direction. This is referred to below. Figure 9 and Figure 10 To describe in more detail.

[0116] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the top surface of the first end plate 21 is flush with the terminal sides of the battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z. These terminal sides are also flush with each other. Therefore, because the bottom surface of the first leg portion 511 is higher than the top surface of the first end plate 21 (e.g., above the top surface of the first end plate 21), a gap is formed between the first end plate 21 and the first leg portion 511, through which a first space 71 formed in front of the first end plate 21 (see example...) can be accessed. Figure 2 The high-voltage interface located in the first space 71 can be electrically connected to the first busbar 31 (and other devices, such as temperature sensors, mounted on the terminal sides of each battery cell 1a, 1b, ..., 1z) through the aforementioned gap. Correspondingly, because the bottom surface of the second leg portion 512 is higher than the top surface of the first end plate 21 (e.g., above the top surface of the first end plate 21), a gap is also formed between the first end plate 21 and the second leg portion 512, through which the first space 71 formed in front of the first end plate 21 (see, for example...) can be accessed. Figure 2The high-voltage interface located in the first space 71 can be electrically connected to the second busbar 32 (and other devices, such as temperature sensors, installed on the terminal side of each battery cell 1a, 1b, ..., 1z) through the aforementioned gap.

[0117] The BMM casing 51 extends in the y-direction along the full (or entire) width of the battery cell stack 10 (corresponding to each of its battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z in the y-direction as shown in the figure). Figure 1 (Extension shown). Furthermore, as in Figure 4 As can be seen, the front (face facing away from the x direction) of the base portion 510, the first leg portion 511, and the second leg portion 512 are flush in the y direction (i.e., at the same position on the x-axis).

[0118] As shown above (refer to the reference) Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described above, when viewed along the x-direction, the base portion 510 is positioned in front of the first battery cell 1a. The extension of the base portion 510 in the x-direction corresponds to the distance from the front side of the first battery cell 1a (the main side of the first battery cell 1a facing away from the x-direction) to the front wall 81 of the housing 8. For example, the base portion 510, together with the front portions of the leg portions 511, 512, covers the gap along the entire width of the battery cell stack 10 in the y-direction between the front side of the first battery cell 1a and the front wall 81 (where the first end plate 21 and the first space 71 are located). Therefore, the first space 71 is shielded by the BMM housing 51 from debris discharged from the affected battery cell into the space above the battery cell stack 10 during thermal runaway. Thus, high-voltage interfaces (and other electrical facilities and / or components) that can be housed in the first space 71 are protected from debris, thereby avoiding or at least minimizing the risk of short circuits and arcing in the high-voltage interfaces and other electrical facilities within the first space 71.

[0119] To further prevent debris from entering the first space 71, the lateral sides of the first space 71 may also be enclosed by lateral plates or barriers extending parallel to the xz plane of the coordinate system. Each of the lateral plates or barriers is adjacent to one of the lateral sides of the first battery cell 1a of the battery cell stack 10. In such an embodiment, the first space 71 is enclosed from each side, which provides maximum debris protection in the event of thermal runaway.

[0120] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the battery module includes a single BMM unit, and therefore includes a single BMM housing 51. Thus, only the first space 71 (see example...) Figure 2The second space 72 at the end of the battery cell stack 10 opposite to the first space 71 is unprotected. This will not cause harm or injury as long as no sensitive electrical devices are installed within the second space 72. However, according to... Figure 6 Another embodiment of the battery module, shown schematically, includes two BMM units arranged at opposite ends of the battery module.

[0121] Figure 6 The implementation shown is similar to Figure 3 The embodiments shown include, as described above. Figure 3 The battery cell stack 10 shown is provided between the first end plate 21 and the second end plate 22, and similar to Figure 3 The first BMM cell shown is a BMM cell. The first BMM cell includes... Figure 3 The BMM housing 51 shown corresponds to the first BMM housing 51, which houses the first BMM electronic device. However, with Figure 3 The implementation methods shown are different. Figure 6 The illustrated embodiment includes a second BMM unit, which comprises a second BMM housing 52 and second BMM electronics. The second BMM unit is disposed at a second end of the battery cell stack 10, i.e., at the end of the battery cell stack 10 opposite to the end where the first BMM unit is mounted. The shape of the second BMM housing 52 may be the same as that of the first BMM housing 51 (but it may be implemented in the battery module with an orientation that is rotated 180° relative to an axis parallel to the z-axis of the coordinate system), or it may correspond to a mirror shape of the first BMM housing 51 (e.g., a planar mirror image relative to the yz-plane of the coordinate system).

[0122] Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the design details of the second BMM housing 52 correspond to those already referenced above. Figures 3 to 5 The design details of the first BMM housing 51 are described. However, it should be noted that the implementation in the battery module is done in a mirror or rotational manner. That is, the second BMM housing 52 includes a second base portion 520, on the lateral side of which are arranged two leg portions pointing in the opposite direction from the second base portion 520 in the x-direction. For example, the first leg portion 521 of the second BMM housing 52 protrudes from the second base portion 520 to the first terminal T of the last battery cell 1z of the battery cell stack 10 when viewed in the x-direction. 1z and the first terminal T of the second to last battery cell 1y 1yIn the area above. Accordingly, the second leg portion 522 of the second BMM housing 52 protrudes from the second base portion 520 to the second terminal T of the last battery cell 1z of the battery cell stack 10 when viewed in the x-direction. 2z And the second terminal T of the second to last battery cell 1y 2y In the area above. Furthermore, the second base portion 520 of the second BMM housing 52 is located on the rear side of the last battery cell 1z (the main side of the last battery cell 1z facing the x-direction) and as shown above. Figure 2 The rear walls 82 of the described housing 8 extend along the x-direction. A second BMM housing 52 is arranged at the same level as the first BMM housing 51 in the z-direction. Therefore, the second BMM housing 52 covers the second end plate 22 and the second space 72 formed between the second end plate 22 and the rear walls 82 of the housing 8. Thus, in the battery module embodiment, the high-voltage interfaces (and other electrical facilities) housed in the second space 72 are protected from debris generated by thermal events (e.g., thermal runaway) E occurring in one or more of the battery cells 1a, 1b, ..., 1z. Therefore, the risk of short circuits and arcing in the high-voltage interfaces and other electrical facilities within the second space 72 is avoided or at least minimized to a large extent.

[0123] To further prevent debris from entering the second space 72, the lateral sides of the second space 72 may also be enclosed by lateral plates or barriers extending parallel to the xz plane of the coordinate system. Each of the lateral plates or barriers is adjacent to one of the lateral sides of the last battery cell 1z of the battery cell stack 10. In such an embodiment, the second space 72 is enclosed from each side, which provides maximum debris protection in the event of thermal runaway.

[0124] The bottom surface of the first leg portion 521 of the second BMM housing 52 is sufficiently large in the z-direction to accommodate the terminal sides of the last battery cell 1z and the penultimate battery cell 1y, so as to accommodate the first terminal T of the last battery cell 1z. 1z and the first terminal T of the second to last battery cell 1y 1y In one embodiment, a first busbar 31 is provided to interconnect the first terminals T of the battery cell stack 10. 1a T 1b ... T 1zThe rear end of the first busbar 31 is also accommodated between the bottom surface of the first leg portion 521 of the second BMM housing 52 and the terminal sides of the last battery cell 1z and the penultimate battery cell 1y. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a protective cover can be installed in the area below the bottom surface of the first leg portion 521 of the second BMM housing 52, above the terminal sides of the last battery cell 1z and the penultimate battery cell 1y. The design and arrangement of this protective cover correspond to the area already referred to above. Figure 4 and Figure 5 Regarding the design and arrangement of the first protective cover (e.g., a heat-resistant protective coating) 411 described, note that the arrangement of this protective cover and the arrangement of the first protective cover 411 are mirror images of a plane parallel to the yz plane and intersecting (e.g., intersecting) the center of the battery cell stack 10. In an embodiment, the protective cover for the first terminal extends along the entire (or whole) battery cell stack 10, and the first protective cover 411 below the first BMM housing 51 extends to the rear end of the battery cell stack 10, such that it also forms the protective cover below the second BMM housing 52.

[0125] Accordingly, the distance along the z-direction between the bottom surface of the second leg portion 522 of the second BMM housing 52 and the terminal sides of the last battery cell 1z and the penultimate battery cell 1y is large enough to accommodate the second terminal T of the last battery cell 1z. 2z And the second terminal T of the second to last battery cell 1y 2y In some embodiments, a second busbar 32 is provided to interconnect the second terminals T of the battery cell stack 10. 2a T 2b ... T 2z The rear end of the second busbar 32 is accommodated between the bottom surface of the second leg portion 522 of the second BMM housing 52 and the terminal sides of the last battery cell 1z and the penultimate battery cell 1y. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a protective cover may be installed in the area below the bottom surface of the second leg portion 522 of the second BMM housing 52 above the terminal sides of the last battery cell 1z and the penultimate battery cell 1y. The design and arrangement of this protective cover correspond to the above reference. Figure 4 and Figure 5 Regarding the design and arrangement of the second protective cover 412, it should be understood that the arrangement of this protective cover and the arrangement of the second protective cover 412 are mirror images of a plane that is parallel to the yz plane and intersects (e.g., crosses) the center of the battery cell stack 10. In some embodiments, the protective cover for the second terminal extends along the entire (or whole) battery cell stack 10, and the second protective cover 412 below the first BMM housing 51 extends to the rear end of the battery cell stack 10, such that it also forms a protective cover below the second BMM housing 52.

[0126] Including two or more of the above references Figures 3 to 6 In the battery system of the aforementioned battery module, the module connectors connecting two adjacent battery modules or the stack connectors connecting two adjacent battery cell stacks may be prone to thermal debris deposition because these module connectors or stack connectors are not protected by the BMM housing as described above. Therefore, due to the heat venting material deposited on these module connectors or stack connectors, once the insulation of the module connectors or stack connectors is burned out, there is a possibility of arc discharge.

[0127] Therefore, two adjacent U-shaped BMM housings can be connected between their respective battery cell stacks via a connecting plate. The connecting plate covers the stack connectors and the gaps between the battery cell stacks (or possibly, the crossbeams of the battery pack frame). Figure 7 An example of such an arrangement is shown in the figure. Figure 7 A battery system including a first battery module and a second battery module is shown. The first battery module and... Figure 6 The drawn battery module is identical and includes a first battery cell stack 10. The first battery cell stack 10 includes a first BMM housing 51 and a second BMM housing 52. The first BMM housing 51 is arranged at the front end of the first battery cell stack 10 when viewed along the x-direction, and the second BMM housing 52 is arranged at the rear end of the first battery cell stack 10. The second battery module is also identical to... Figure 6 The drawn battery module is identical and includes a second battery cell stack 10'. The second battery cell stack 10' includes a further first BMM housing 51' and a further second BMM housing 52'. The further first BMM housing 51' is arranged at the front end of the second battery cell stack 10' as viewed along the x-direction, and the further second BMM housing 52' is arranged at the rear end of the second battery cell stack 10'. The first battery module and the second battery module are arranged in parallel and housed within a common housing 8 including a front wall 81 and a rear wall 82. The placement of each of the first battery module and the second battery module between the front wall 81 and the rear wall 82 corresponds to... Figure 6 The illustration.

[0128] As in Figure 7As can be seen, the first connecting plate 91 spans the gap 90 between the first battery cell stack 10 and the second battery cell stack 10' in the region of the front end of the battery module. The first connecting plate 91 extends between the second leg portion 512 of the first BMM housing 51 of the first battery module and the first leg portion 511' of the other first BMM housing 51' of the second battery module. Therefore, when viewed against the z-direction, the module connector or stack connector positioned below the first connecting plate 91 and connecting the first battery module to the second battery module is protected from debris ejected from one or more battery cells of the battery system in the event of thermal runaway.

[0129] Accordingly, the second connecting plate 92 spans the gap 90 between the first battery cell stack 10 and the second battery cell stack 10' in the region of the rear end of the battery module. The second connecting plate 92 extends between the second leg portion 522 of the second BMM housing 52 of the first battery module and the first leg portion 521' of the other second BMM housing 52' of the second battery module. Therefore, the module connector or stack connector positioned below the second connecting plate 92 and connecting the first battery module to the second battery module when viewed against the z-direction is protected from debris ejected from one or more battery cells of the battery system in the event of thermal runaway.

[0130] In some embodiments, a connecting side plate extending parallel to the yz plane of the coordinate system, spanning the gap between the first battery cell stack 10 and the second battery cell stack 10' in the y direction and spanning in the z direction between the rear end 91a of the first connecting plate 91 and the bottom wall of the housing 8, can further improve the shielding of module connectors or stack connectors arranged in the region between the first BMM housing 51 and another first BMM housing 51' below the first connecting plate 91. Furthermore, in some embodiments, an additional connecting side plate extending parallel to the yz plane of the coordinate system, spanning the gap between the first battery cell stack 10 and the second battery cell stack 10' in the y direction and spanning in the z direction between the front end 92a of the second connecting plate 92 and the bottom wall of the housing 8, can further improve the shielding of module connectors or stack connectors arranged in the region between the second BMM housing 52 and another second BMM housing 52' below the second connecting plate 92.

[0131] Figure 8A A side view of the end portion of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically. Figure 8B The same end portion is shown schematically, but is shown in the front view. Figure 8A and Figure 8B The end portion shown can correspond to the reference above. Figures 3 to 6The first end portion of the described battery module (the end portion pointing in the opposite direction to the x-direction). Additionally, refer to... Figure 8A and Figure 8B The casing 8 houses the stacked battery cells to form a battery system. For example... Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the housing 8 includes a front wall 81, a bottom wall 85, and a top wall 86. Figure 8A The image shows the first four battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d of a stack of battery cells constrained at their first ends by a first end plate 21. Each of the battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d, and the first end plate 21, is positioned on the bottom wall 85 of the housing 8 and extends in the z-direction to the same height, such that the upper side 16 of the battery cell and the top surface of the first end plate 21 are flush. (See image below.) Figure 8A As can be seen, a first space 71 is formed between the front wall 81 of the housing 8 and the front end 21a of the first end plate 21. A high-voltage interface can be accommodated within the first space 71.

[0132] The BMM cell is disposed on top of the battery cell stack in the region of the first end of the battery cell stack. The BMM cell includes BMM electronics and a BMM housing 51. The BMM housing 51 includes a base portion 510, a first leg portion 511, and a second leg portion 512. According to... Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 510 is mounted on the top surface 21b of the first end plate 21. A first leg portion 511 is disposed on the side 510a of the base portion 510 facing away from the y-direction, while a second leg portion 512 is disposed on the opposite side 510b of the base portion 510 facing the y-direction. The first leg portion 511 and the second leg portion 512 each extend in the x-direction to the region above the third battery cell 1c of the battery cell stack. Each of the base portion 510, the first leg portion 511, and the second leg portion 512 protrudes beyond the front surface 21a of the first end plate 21 against the x-direction, abutting against the front wall 81 of the housing 8. Therefore, the first space 71 between the front wall 81 and the first end plate 21 is covered by the BMM housing 51.

[0133] As in Figure 8A As can be seen, the first busbar 31 extends along the x-direction and is electrically connected to the first terminal T of the battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d. 1a T 1b T 1c T 1d Each of the cells in the stack. The first busbar 31 can also be electrically connected to each of the first terminals of the remaining cells in the cell stack; however, these first terminals are in Figure 8A Not visible in the middle. Accordingly, the second busbar 32 is electrically connected to each of the second terminals of the battery cell stack, which is in Figure 8BThe second terminal T relative to the first battery cell 1a 2a As shown.

[0134] In the regions of the first battery cell 1a and the second battery cell 1b (and in some embodiments, also in the region of the third battery cell 1c), the first busbar 31 is shielded by a first protective cover 411, and the second busbar 32 is shielded by a second protective cover 412. The first protective cover 411 includes a first base portion 411a and a first flat portion 411b. The first base portion 411a is mounted on the terminal side of the first battery cell 1a and the second battery cell 1b, and also partially on the terminal side of the third battery cell 1c, in the region between the first busbar 31 and the centers of these battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c relative to the y-direction. The first flat portion 411b is disposed on the first base portion 411a and protrudes from there against the y-direction above the first busbar 31 to cover it. The second protective cover 412 includes a second base portion 412a and a second flat portion 412b. The second base portion 412a is mounted on the terminal sides of the first battery cell 1a and the second battery cell 1b, and also partially on the terminal side of the third battery cell 1c, in the region between the second busbar 32 and the centers of these battery cells 1a, 1b, and 1c relative to the y-direction. The second flat portion 412b is arranged on the second base portion 412a and protrudes from there along the y-direction above the second busbar 32 to cover the second busbar 32.

[0135] exist Figure 8A In the illustrated embodiment, the first protective cover 411 extends relative to the x-direction between the rear end 510c of the base portion 510 and the rear end 511c of the first leg portion 511. However, in other embodiments, the first protective cover 411 may extend against the x-direction into the region of the base portion 510 (e.g., up to the front end 510d of the base portion 510) and / or extend along the x-direction into the region behind the rear end 511c of the first leg portion 511. In some embodiments, this may be applied accordingly to the second protective cover 412.

[0136] The first busbar 31 is arranged below the first leg portion 511. Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the illustrated embodiment, the top surface of the first busbar 31 is close to the bottom surface of the first flat portion 411b. In other embodiments, a gap may be left between the top surface of the first busbar 31 and the bottom surface of the first flat portion 411b. Furthermore, the second busbar 32 is arranged below the second leg portion 512. Figure 8A and Figure 8BIn the illustrated embodiment, the top surface of the second busbar 32 is close to the bottom surface of the second flat portion 412b. In other embodiments, a gap may be left between the top surface of the second busbar 32 and the bottom surface of the second flat portion 412b.

[0137] exist Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the illustrated embodiment, the top surface 510t of the base portion 510, the top surface 511t of the first leg portion 511, and the top surface 512t of the second leg portion 512 are flush. However, due to the gap in the z-direction between the horizontal level of the terminal side of the battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c and the horizontal level of the bottom surfaces 511a, 512a of the first and second leg portions 511, 512, the extension of the base portion 510 in the z-direction is greater than the extension of the first leg portion 511 in the z-direction and the extension of the second leg portion 512 in the z-direction. Therefore, the base portion 510 protrudes against the z-direction between the first leg portion 511 and the second leg portion 512 until it reaches the top surface 21b of the first end plate 21.

[0138] The top wall 86 of housing 8 extends parallel to the xy plane of the coordinate system above BMM housing 51. For example... Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, a gap 61 may be provided between the top of the BMM housing 51 and the top wall 86. Through the gap 61, exhaust gases and debris can escape from the region between the first leg portion 511 and the second leg portion 512 in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction. However, in other embodiments, the top of the BMM housing 51 may be close to the top wall 86 of the housing 8. In such embodiments, the first leg portion 511 and the second leg portion 512 may be shaped differently to allow debris to escape in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction. Such embodiments will be referred to below. Figure 9 and Figure 10 Describe it.

[0139] exist Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the illustrated embodiment, the top surface 21b of the first end plate 21 is flush with the terminal side 16 of the battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d. However, in other embodiments, the top surface 21b of the first end plate 21 may be arranged at a different level relative to the z-direction than the level of the terminal side 16 of the battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d. In such an embodiment, the extension of the base portion 510 along the z-direction may be shortened or lengthened accordingly, such that the base portion 510 can be mounted on the front surface 21a of the first end plate 21 and can extend to the level of the top surface of the first leg portion 511 and the second leg portion 512.

[0140] exist Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 8A and Figure 8BIn the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 510 and the first leg portion 511 and the second leg portion 512 each have a cuboid shape. However, it should be understood that other shapes can be used. For example, Figure 9 The diagram schematically illustrates an end portion of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which roughly corresponds to the portion shown above. Figure 8A and Figure 8B The end portion shown in the image. However, in Figure 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the first leg portion 511 has a wedge shape that tapers continuously in the stacking direction (e.g., the x-direction). Therefore, the distance d between the top surface 511t of the first leg portion 511 and the top wall 86 of the housing 8 increases in the x-direction. This arrangement creates a wedge-shaped gap 61 between the first leg portion 511 and the top wall 86, through which exhaust gases and hot debris from one or more battery cells located below the leg portions 511, 512 of the BMM housing 51 can escape from the battery cell stack in the y-direction. The second leg portion 512 can be formed in a manner corresponding to the first leg portion 511. Therefore, a wedge-shaped gap is also formed between the second leg portion 512 and the top wall 86 of the housing 8, through which exhaust gases and hot debris from one or more battery cells located below the leg portions 511, 512 of the BMM housing 51 can escape from the battery cell stack in the y-direction. In the top view, Figure 9 The BMM housing 51 shown can have the same Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 The shape of the first BMM housing 51 shown is similar. When viewed in the x direction, Figure 9 The shape of the BMM housing 51 shown can be similar to Figure 8B The shape of the BMM housing 51 shown.

[0141] Figure 10 The diagram schematically illustrates an end portion of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is generally similar to the one described above. Figure 9 The described implementation method. Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the first leg portion 511 has a wedge shape, thus tapering in the x-direction. However, compared to... Figure 9 The implementation shown differs; the taper is not continuous but consists of multiple steps 511. t1 511 t2 511 t3 511 t4 511 t5 Formation. Once again, a gap 61 with a corresponding wedge shape (but tapering in the opposite x direction) is formed between the first leg portion 511 and the top wall 86 of the shell 8. Figure 10 The effect of the gap 61 in the illustrated embodiment is similar to Figure 9 The effect of the gap 61 in the illustrated embodiment is that it allows for improved ventilation of the battery cells 1a, 1b, 1c in the area between the first leg portion 511 and the second leg portion 512. Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the second leg portion 512 can be formed in a manner corresponding to the first leg portion 511. In the top view, Figure 10 The BMM housing 51 shown can have the same Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 The shape of the first BMM housing 51 shown is similar. When viewed in the x direction, Figure 10 The shape of the BMM housing 51 shown can be similar to Figure 8B The shape of the BMM housing 51 shown.

[0142] Figure 9 and Figure 10 The illustrated embodiment provides improved or optimal gas flow perpendicular to the stacking direction in the region of the BMM housing 51, which is particularly advantageous for ventilating the first battery cell 1a.

[0143] In the aforementioned battery module according to embodiments of the present disclosure, end plates 21 and 22 are defined to restrict the stacking of battery cells along the stacking direction. However, in other embodiments according to the present disclosure, one or both of the first end plate 21 and the second end plate 22 may be omitted. In such embodiments, the BMM housing may be fixed, i.e., on the terminal side of the first group of battery cells or similar to... Figures 8A to 10 Above the protective cover. In other embodiments, the BMM housing may be fixed to the housing 8 in which the battery cell stack is housed.

[0144] Explanation of some figure labels

[0145] 1 battery cell

[0146] 1' shell

[0147] 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1h, 1y, 1z battery cells

[0148] 8 Battery System Housing

[0149] 10, 10' battery cell stack

[0150] 12 main and side

[0151] 13 Lateral side

[0152] 16-terminal side

[0153] 21 First end plate

[0154] 21a Front of the first end plate

[0155] 21b Top surface of the first end plate

[0156] 22 Second end plate

[0157] Busbars 31 and 32

[0158] 51, 51', 52, 52' Battery Module Management Housing

[0159] 61 gaps

[0160] Spaces 71 and 72

[0161] 81 Anterior Wall

[0162] 82 posterior wall

[0163] 85 bottom wall

[0164] 86 top wall

[0165] 91 First connecting plate

[0166] Rear end of the first connecting plate of 91a

[0167] 92 Second connecting plate

[0168] 92a Front end of the second connecting plate

[0169] 411 First Protective Cover

[0170] 411a First base section

[0171] 411b First flat section

[0172] 412 Second Protective Cover

[0173] 412a Second base section

[0174] 412b Second flat section

[0175] 510, 510' base portion

[0176] Surfaces of the base portion of 510a, 510b, 510c, 510d, and 510t

[0177] 511 t1 511 t2 511 t3 511 t4 511 t5 Steps

[0178] 511, 511' First Leg Section

[0179] Surface of the first leg portion of 511a, 511c, and 511t

[0180] 512 Second Leg Part

[0181] Surface of the second leg portion of 512a and 512t

[0182] 520 Second Base Part

[0183] 521, 521' The first leg portion of the second BMM shell

[0184] 522 Second BMM shell second leg section

[0185] C1 and C2 cavities

[0186] Extension of Δz0, Δz1, and Δz2 along the z-direction

[0187] d distance

[0188] E. Thermal events (e.g., thermal runaway)

[0189] G gap

[0190] T1 first terminal

[0191] T 1a T 1b T 1c T 1d T 1y T 1z First terminal

[0192] T2 second terminal

[0193] T 2a T 2b T 2c T 2d T 2y T 2z Second terminal

[0194] V exhaust outlet

[0195] V a V b V c V y V z exhaust outlet

[0196] The axes of the Cartesian coordinate system: x, y, z

Claims

1. A battery module, comprising: A battery cell stack comprising a plurality of battery cells stacked along a first direction (x), each of the battery cells (1a, 1b, ..., 1z) comprising a housing (1'), the housing (1') comprising a first terminal (T1), a second terminal (T2) on the terminal side of the housing, and an exhaust outlet (V) disposed between the first terminal (T1) and the second terminal; and A first battery module management unit includes a first battery module management unit housing (51). The first battery module management unit housing (51) has a base portion (510), a first leg portion (511), and a second leg portion (512). When viewed in the first direction (x), the base portion (510) is arranged in front of the first battery cell of the battery cell stack (10). The first leg portion (511) protrudes from the base portion (510) in the first direction (x) and covers the first terminal of the first battery cell. The second leg portion (512) protrudes from the base portion (510) in the first direction (x) and covers the second terminal of the first battery cell. Wherein, a gap (G) is formed between the first leg portion (511) and the second leg portion (512), and The exhaust outlet of the first battery cell is located in the gap between the first leg portion (511) and the second leg portion (512).

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first leg portion (511) and the second leg portion (512) have the same length in the first direction (x).

3. The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising a first end plate, which, when viewed in the first direction (x), is arranged in front of the first battery cell (1a) and configured to support the first battery cell along the first direction.

4. The battery module according to claim 3, further comprising a second end plate, which, when viewed in the first direction (x), is disposed behind the last battery cell (1z) of the battery cell stack and configured to support the last battery cell (1z) against the first direction (x).

5. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein, The first end plate (21) has a prism shape, and The base portion (510) of the first battery module management unit housing (51) is arranged on the top surface (21b) of the first end plate (21), and the top surface (21b) faces the direction (z) perpendicular to the terminal side (16) of the battery cell (1a, 1b, ..., 1z).

6. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, A first cavity is formed in a direction (z) perpendicular to the terminal side (16) of the battery cells (1a, 1b, ..., 1z) between the first leg portion (511) and the battery cell stack (10), and the first terminal (T) is covered by the first leg portion (511). 1a T 1b It is arranged in the first cavity.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein, The second cavity is formed in the direction (z) perpendicular to the terminal side (16) of the battery cell between the second leg portion (512) and the battery cell stack (10), and the second terminal (T) is covered by the second leg portion (512). 2a T 2b It is arranged in the second cavity.

8. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first leg portion (511) has a wedge shape that tapers in the first direction (x), such that the distance between the battery cell stack (10) and the top surface (511t) of the first leg portion (511) decreases in the first direction (x).

9. The battery module according to claim 8, wherein, The second leg portion (512) has a wedge shape that tapers in the first direction (x), such that the distance between the battery cell stack (10) and the top surface (512t) of the second leg portion (512) decreases in the first direction (x).

10. The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising an electrical connection to the first terminal (T) 1a T 1b ... T 1z The first busbar (31) of each of the ) in, The first busbar (31) is covered by the first protective cover (411) at least in the area of ​​the first leg portion.

11. The battery module according to claim 10, wherein, The first protective cover (411) includes: The first base portion (411a) is mounted on the terminal side (16) of the first battery cell covered by the first leg portion (511), and on the first terminal (T) of the first battery cell (1a) covered by the first leg portion (511). 1a ) and the exhaust outlet (V a Extending along the first direction (x) in the region between; and A first flat portion (411b) is disposed on the first base portion (411a) and extends between the first leg portion (511) and the first battery cell (1a) covered by the first leg portion (511).

12. The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising an electrical connection to the second terminal (T) 2a T 2b ... T 2z The second busbar (32) in each of the ) in, The second busbar (32) is covered by the second protective cover (412) at least in the area of ​​the second leg portion.

13. The battery module according to claim 12, wherein, The second protective cover (412) includes: The second base portion (412a) is mounted on the terminal side (16) of the first battery cell (1a) covered by the second leg portion (512), and on the second terminal (T) of the first battery cell (1a) covered by the second leg portion (512). 2a ) and the exhaust outlet (V a Extending along the first direction (x) in the region between; and The second flat portion (412b) is disposed on the second base portion (412a) and extends between the second leg portion (512) and the first battery cell (1a) covered by the second leg portion (512).

14. The battery module according to claim 1, further comprising a second battery module management unit, the second battery module management unit comprising a second battery module management unit housing (52). in, The second battery module management unit housing (52) includes a base portion (520), a first leg portion (521), and a second leg portion (522). When viewed in the first direction (x), the base portion (520) of the second battery module management unit housing is arranged behind the last battery cell (1z) of the battery cell stack (10). The first leg portion (521) of the second battery module management unit housing protrudes from the base portion (520) of the second battery module management unit housing in the opposite direction (x), and covers the first terminal (T) of the last battery cell. 1z ), The second leg portion (522) of the second battery module management unit housing protrudes from the base portion (520) of the second battery module management unit housing in the opposite direction (x) and covers the second terminal (T) of the last battery cell. 2z ), The gap is formed between the first leg portion (521) and the second leg portion of the second battery module management unit housing. The exhaust outlet (V) of the last battery cell is located in the gap between the first leg portion (521) and the second leg portion (522) of the second battery module management unit housing.

15. A battery system comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The battery system of claim 15, further comprising a battery system housing accommodating a plurality of said battery modules. in, The battery cell stacks (10, 10') in each battery module are oriented parallel to each other in their stacking directions. Each of the battery cell stacks (10, 10') has a first end pointing in the opposite direction to the stacking direction and a second end pointing in the stacking direction. The battery system housing (8) includes a front wall (81) extending perpendicular to the stacking direction and a rear wall (82) extending perpendicular to the stacking direction. Wherein, for each of the battery cell stacks (10, 10'), a first space (71) is formed between the first end of the battery cell stack (10, 10') and the front wall (81), and a second space (72) is formed between the second end of the battery cell stack (10, 10') and the rear wall (82), and Each of the first battery module management unit housings (51, 51') arranged at the first end of the battery cell stack is close to the front wall (81) and covers the corresponding first space (71).

17. The battery system according to claim 16, wherein, Two adjacent cells in the first battery module management unit housing (51, 51') in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the battery cell stack (10, 10') are connected to each other by a connecting plate (91).

18. A vehicle comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

19. A vehicle comprising a battery system according to any one of claims 15 to 17.

Images