Battery module supporting device and battery pack
By using a partially filled structure for the support frame and support components, as well as a restrictive unit design, the problems of cell heat dissipation and support in the CTP structure are solved, achieving lightweight and efficient heat dissipation, and improving the stability and safety of the battery module.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- INPAI BATTERY TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-21
AI Technical Summary
In existing CTP structures, adhesives or foam tapes between battery cells are gradually being eliminated, rendering thermally conductive adhesive filling methods unsuitable. A new method is needed to support the battery module and address heat dissipation requirements.
The system employs a support frame and support components, which include a partially infilled structure and limiting units. The space is divided by connecting ribs to form a closed area. Combined with the enclosure and reinforcement, it provides stable support and heat dissipation space.
It effectively reduces material usage, lightens weight, improves heat exchange efficiency, enhances the stability and safety of battery modules, and extends service life.
Smart Images
Figure CN224153527U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of battery pack heat exchange technology, and more specifically, to a battery module support device and a battery pack. Background Technology
[0002] In the early stages of electric vehicle development, power batteries were typically assembled from several or dozens of cells into modules, and then several modules were assembled and fixed in a PACK casing to form a vehicle power battery pack. However, with the increasing pressure on electric vehicles to achieve lighter weight and longer driving range, the CTP (Cell-to-Pack) structure emerged. The CTP structure refers to a power battery pack where the cells are directly assembled into the PACK casing. This structure eliminates or significantly reduces intermediate module components, greatly reducing the overall weight of the battery pack and directly contributing to the lightweighting and increased driving range of electric vehicles.
[0003] In a CTP (Cell-to-Pack) structure, battery cells are typically bonded together using adhesive or double-sided foam tape to form a generalized module. A suction cup device then lifts the module and places it into a housing containing a liquid cooling plate. The battery cells are pressed against height-limiting strips, which are then adhered to the liquid cooling plate. The area elevated by the height-limiting strips is filled with thermally conductive structural adhesive. The liquid cooling plate also contains thermally conductive structural adhesive, and the module is bonded to the liquid cooling plate via this adhesive.
[0004] Because battery cells are glued to adjacent cells or foam strips with double-sided adhesive to form a whole, the glue or foam used to bond the cells is gradually being eliminated in today's cost-reduction policy, making the previous method of filling with thermally conductive adhesive no longer applicable. Utility Model Content
[0005] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to provide a battery module support device to improve the problem in the prior art that it is necessary to support the battery module and solve the heat dissipation requirements.
[0006] The battery module support device includes: a support frame and a support member; the support member is disposed on the support surface of the support frame; the support member includes a partially filled structure; the partially filled structure includes a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other; the first surface is in contact with the support surface of the support frame, and the second surface is configured to support the battery module; wherein the first surface and the second surface have a consistent thickness.
[0007] In the above implementation process, the battery module support device achieves stable support for the battery module through a support frame and support components. The incomplete filling structure of the support components not only effectively reduces the amount of material used and lightens the overall weight of the device, but also provides heat dissipation space for the battery module, improving heat exchange efficiency. Providing heat dissipation space while ensuring the stability and safety of the battery module enhances the overall performance of the device.
[0008] Optionally, the incompletely filled structure further includes a limiting unit; the limiting unit is disposed between the first surface and the second surface and divides the space between the first surface and the second surface; wherein the thickness of the limiting unit is the same as the thickness between the first surface and the second surface.
[0009] In the above implementation process, while the incompletely filled structure reduces material usage, lightens the overall weight, and provides heat dissipation space, the limiting unit further optimizes the specific arrangement of the incompletely filled structure in the support. Between the first and second surfaces, the limiting unit's reasonable division of the space maximizes space utilization and improves the overall performance of the device.
[0010] Optionally, the limiting unit includes a connecting rib; the connecting rib divides the space between the first surface and the second surface, and forms a plurality of closed areas around the connecting rib to form a hollow in the closed areas; wherein the hollow is oriented toward the first surface or the second surface.
[0011] In the above implementation process, the limiting unit, through the setting of connecting ribs, divides the space of the first and second surfaces, forming multiple enclosed areas. Simultaneously, these enclosed areas are perforated, allowing for more efficient heat dissipation from the battery module. By rationally planning the distribution of the connecting ribs in the limiting unit, the battery module can receive reliable support and protection when subjected to external forces or vibrations, reducing the risk of displacement or damage caused by external forces.
[0012] Optionally, the enclosed region is a polygon; and adjacent polygons have at least one parallel connecting rib.
[0013] In the above implementation process, the enclosed area is set as a polygon, and there is at least one parallel connecting rib between two adjacent polygons. From the perspective of structural stability, the enclosed area of the polygon can effectively disperse and conduct the pressure and vibration generated by the battery module during operation. When the battery module is subjected to external impact or continuous vibration, the geometry of the polygon can evenly distribute these forces to the entire support structure, avoiding stress concentration and thus enhancing the overall stability and reliability of the support device.
[0014] Optionally, the polygon includes rectangles, rhombuses, and triangles.
[0015] In the above implementation process, the diverse selection of geometric shapes optimizes material distribution and utilization efficiency while ensuring structural strength. Different polygonal shapes have their own advantages in terms of stress distribution, load-bearing capacity, and heat dissipation performance, thereby improving the overall performance of the support device.
[0016] Optionally, the area of the enclosed region is smaller than the bottom area of a single cell in the battery module; and the side length of the enclosed region is smaller than any side length of the bottom surface of the single cell.
[0017] In the above implementation process, the area of the enclosed region is smaller than the bottom area of a single cell in the battery module, and the side length of the enclosed region is smaller than any side length of the bottom surface of a single cell. While ensuring support performance, this improves the adaptability and precision of the support device to the cell. Each enclosed region can correspond to a local stress point of the cell, thereby providing more uniform support and avoiding cell deformation or damage caused by uneven support.
[0018] Optionally, the support further includes: a frame; the frame is disposed around the incompletely filled structure between the first surface and the second surface; wherein the frame has the same thickness as the incompletely filled structure.
[0019] In the above implementation process, from the perspective of structural stability, the frame effectively enhances the rigidity and strength of the entire support. As a sturdy frame, it firmly encloses the partially infilled structure, preventing it from deforming or being damaged when subjected to external forces.
[0020] Optionally, the side of the frame connected to the incompletely filled structure has a reinforcement.
[0021] In the above implementation process, a reinforcement is provided on the side where the frame connects to the incompletely infilled structure, enhancing the structural strength and stability of the connection. The reinforcement prevents the frame and the incompletely infilled structure from deforming or separating under stress, improving the reliability and durability of the support components.
[0022] This application also provides a battery pack. The battery pack includes a housing, a battery module, and a battery module support device.
[0023] In the above implementation process, the battery pack integrates the housing, battery modules, and the battery module support device to form a high-efficiency, stable, and lightweight battery pack system.
[0024] Optionally, the support member in the battery module support device is bonded to the support frame by a heat exchange medium filled therein, and the battery cell in the battery module is placed on the second surface of the support member; wherein the heat exchange medium is configured to exchange heat with the battery module and the support frame.
[0025] In the aforementioned implementation process, firstly, the lightweight design of the support device helps reduce the overall weight of the battery pack, thereby increasing its energy density and enhancing its portability and application range. Secondly, the ingenious layout of the incompletely filled structure and the limiting unit allows the heat exchange medium to flow efficiently between the battery module and the support device, achieving rapid and uniform heat transfer, effectively controlling temperature fluctuations in the battery module, extending its service life, and enhancing safety during use. Furthermore, the tight fit between the support device and the housing improves the overall structural stability of the battery pack, enabling it to better withstand external impacts and vibrations and adapt to various complex operating environments. Attached Figure Description
[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery module support device provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0028] Figure 2 A first schematic diagram of the support member provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0029] Figure 3 A second schematic diagram of the support member provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0030] Figure 4 A third schematic diagram of the support member provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0031] Figure 5 A fourth schematic diagram of the support member provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the reinforcement part provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0033] Icons: 100 - Battery module; 200 - Support component; 210 - Incompletely filled structure; 220 - Enclosure; 230 - Reinforcement part; 300 - Support frame. Detailed Implementation
[0034] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application.
[0035] Optionally, embodiments of this application provide a battery module support device; please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a battery module support device provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0036] The battery module support device includes a support frame 300 and a support member 200; the support member 200 is disposed on the support surface of the support frame 300; the support member 200 includes a partially filled structure 210; the partially filled structure 210 includes a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other; the first surface contacts the support surface of the support frame 300, and the second surface is configured to support the battery module 100; wherein the first surface and the second surface have a consistent thickness.
[0037] In the above implementation process, the battery module support device adopts a support frame 300 and a support member 200 with a partially filled structure 210. While ensuring support strength, it effectively reduces the amount of material used, thereby reducing the weight of the device and lowering costs. The partially filled structure 210 of the support member 200 includes a first surface and a second surface arranged opposite each other, and the two have a consistent thickness. While ensuring support performance, it provides better material distribution and mechanical properties, and also helps with heat dissipation or adaptability to different working environments.
[0038] Optionally, the support frame 300 in the battery module support device can be made of metal materials such as steel, alloy, stainless steel, etc., and the support component 200 in the battery module support device can be made of non-metallic materials such as PA (polyamide), PC (polycarbonate) and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) in composite materials.
[0039] In one embodiment of this application, the partially filled structure 210 of the support member 200 can serve as a space for medium filling. To enhance the heat dissipation performance of the battery module 100, a heat exchange medium can be filled therein. Since the heat exchange medium can directly contact the battery module 100 and the support frame 300, when the battery module 100 generates heat, the heat exchange medium can instantly remove the heat, thus maintaining the working performance of the battery module 100 at a better level.
[0040] Optionally, the heat exchange medium can be a thermally conductive adhesive. While enhancing the stability of the battery module 100 and the support 200, it can effectively fill the gaps between the contact surfaces to transfer heat, improving heat transfer between the two materials. Specifically, epoxy thermally conductive adhesive, one-component RTV thermally conductive silicone, thermally conductive silicone gel, etc., can be used.
[0041] In one embodiment of this application, to enhance the heat dissipation performance of the battery module 100, the support frame 300 can be connected to a heat exchange device, which can be a liquid cooling plate that transfers heat from the heat-generating device to the heat exchange medium in the circulation pipeline. In this embodiment, the heat-generating device is the battery module 100. Combined with the aforementioned thermally conductive adhesive filled in the partially filled structure 210 within the support member 200, a heat dissipation system for the entire battery module 100 can be formed, improving working efficiency and extending the service life of the battery module 100.
[0042] Optionally, please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 , Figure 2 A first schematic diagram of the support member provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 A second schematic diagram of the support member provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0043] Figure 4 A third schematic diagram of the support member provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a fourth schematic diagram of the support provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0044] The incompletely filled structure 210 also includes a limiting unit; the limiting unit is disposed between the first surface and the second surface and divides the space between the first surface and the second surface; wherein the thickness of the limiting unit is the same as the thickness between the first surface and the second surface.
[0045] In the above implementation process, a limiting unit is introduced into the incompletely filled structure 210. The limiting unit is disposed between the first surface and the second surface, dividing the space between them. While ensuring support performance, it optimizes the distribution and utilization efficiency of materials. Furthermore, the thickness of the limiting unit is consistent with the thickness of the support member 200, ensuring the integrity and stability of the structure. The limiting unit divides the space between the first surface and the second surface, which helps improve the mechanical properties of the support member 200, such as increasing the rigidity or deformation resistance of the structure, while also improving heat dissipation performance or adapting to different working environments to a certain extent.
[0046] Optionally, the limiting unit includes a connecting rib; the connecting rib divides the space between the first surface and the second surface, and forms a plurality of closed areas around the connecting rib to form a hollow in the closed areas; wherein the hollow is oriented toward the first surface or the second surface.
[0047] In the above implementation process, connecting ribs are introduced into the incompletely filled structure 210. These ribs divide the space between the first and second surfaces, forming multiple closed regions, and creating openings within these closed regions. This ensures support performance while further optimizing material distribution and utilization efficiency. Furthermore, the openings help reduce the weight of the device and lower costs.
[0048] Optionally, the enclosed region is a polygon; and adjacent polygons have at least one parallel connecting rib.
[0049] In the above implementation process, the enclosed area is set as a polygon, which optimizes the distribution and efficiency of material use while ensuring structural strength. The polygonal shape helps to better distribute the stress and improve the load-bearing capacity of the support member 200. There is at least one parallel connecting rib between two adjacent polygons, which simplifies the manufacturing process while ensuring structural stability. The parallel connecting ribs help to improve production efficiency and reduce costs, while also enhancing the overall integrity and deformation resistance of the structure to a certain extent.
[0050] Optionally, polygons include rectangles, rhombuses, and triangles.
[0051] In the aforementioned implementation process, the rectangular enclosed area, with its regular geometric shape, can achieve uniform pressure distribution, effectively reducing the risk of deformation of the battery module 100 due to uneven stress. The rhomboid enclosed area, through its unique diagonal characteristics, can disperse forces in multiple directions when subjected to external impacts, providing more reliable support. The triangular enclosed area, known for its excellent stability, can significantly enhance the rigidity of the entire support structure, effectively resisting vibrations and impacts generated by the battery module 100 during operation. This type of enclosed area, while ensuring structural stability, also ensures sufficient contact between the heat exchange medium and the battery module 100, achieving efficient heat transfer.
[0052] Optionally, the area of the enclosed region is smaller than the bottom area of a single cell in the battery module 100; and the side length of the enclosed region is smaller than any side length of the bottom surface of the single cell.
[0053] In the above implementation process, from the perspective of support precision, a smaller enclosed area can more accurately match the size of a single battery cell, providing more detailed and uniform support for each cell. Since the area and side length of the enclosed area are smaller than the corresponding size of the battery cell, the support structure can fit tightly against the bottom of the cell, reducing displacement and wobbling of the cell on the support structure. Because the size of the enclosed area is set based on the bottom area and side length of a single battery cell, it can be applied to battery cells of different sizes and specifications, as long as the size of the enclosed area is smaller than the corresponding size of the battery cell. This allows the support bracket to be widely used in various battery modules 100, whether using cylindrical, prismatic, or pouch cells, achieving good support and heat dissipation effects by adjusting the layout and number of enclosed areas.
[0054] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the limiting unit of the incompletely filled structure 210 is rhomboid in shape, disposed between the first surface and the second surface, and divides the space between the first surface and the second surface. Figure 2 The rhomboid limiting unit is composed of multiple connecting ribs. These ribs divide the space between the first and second surfaces and form multiple rhomboid closed regions. Adjacent rhomboids share at least one parallel connecting rib. Due to its diagonal characteristic, the rhomboid structure can disperse force in multiple directions when subjected to external impact, providing more reliable support. Furthermore, the rhomboid regions can be used to fill heat exchange medium for effective heat dissipation of the battery module 100 supported by the support member 200. The area of the rhomboid closed region is smaller than the bottom area of a single cell in the battery module 100; and the side length of the rhomboid closed region is smaller than any side length of the bottom surface of a single cell. With proper design, this can maximize the heat exchange area between the battery module 100 and the heat exchange medium filled within it, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the entire heat exchange process.
[0055] Optionally, the support member 200 further includes a frame 220; the frame 220 is disposed around the incompletely filled structure 210 between the first surface and the second surface; wherein the frame 220 has the same thickness as the incompletely filled structure 210.
[0056] In the above implementation process, the frame 220 in the support member 200 is arranged around the incompletely filled structure 210 between the first surface and the second surface. While ensuring the overall stability of the support member 200, the frame 220 further enhances the edge support strength of the incompletely filled structure 210, preventing deformation of the edge area under stress.
[0057] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, in Figure 2A frame 220 is added to the diamond-shaped closed area, surrounding it between the first and second surfaces. It is understood that the frame 220 has the same thickness as the incompletely filled structure 210. If the frame is too thin, it would not adequately protect the incompletely filled structure 210 in the support member 200, and there would be no need for an additional structure requiring material. Setting it to have the same thickness as the incompletely filled structure 210 satisfies both the protection of the incompletely filled structure 210 and restricts the flow of the heat exchange medium filled within it.
[0058] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 4 As shown, the limiting unit of the incompletely filled structure 210 is set as a rectangular closed area. The rectangular closed area, with its regular geometry, can achieve a uniform pressure distribution, effectively reducing the risk of deformation of the battery module 100 due to uneven stress. The frame 220 ensures the overall stability of the support member 200 and prevents deformation of the edge area under stress. Similarly, other polygons can also ensure structural strength while achieving good heat dissipation for the battery module 100.
[0059] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 5 As shown, the limiting unit can consist of an integral structure and connecting ribs forming a closed area, i.e., a partially filled structure 210. The connecting ribs are connected to the edges of the integral structure, dividing the support member 200 into multiple closed areas. With a reasonable layout, the filling area of the heat exchange medium can be increased, and strong support can also be provided. The frame 220 ensures the overall stability of the support member 200 and prevents deformation of the edge area under stress. It can be seen that the integral structure can be a rectangle, rhombus, triangle, or other polygons, or it can be a solid, hollow, or perforated structure.
[0060] Please see Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the reinforcement part provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0061] The side of the frame 220 that connects to the incompletely filled structure 210 has a reinforcement 230.
[0062] In the above implementation process, a reinforcing part 230 is provided on the side where the frame 220 connects to the incompletely filled structure 210, further enhancing the strength and stability of the connection area. The reinforcing part 230 can effectively prevent loosening or deformation at the connection between the frame 220 and the incompletely filled structure 210 during long-term use or under stress, thereby improving the reliability and service life of the entire support device.
[0063] This application also provides a battery pack. The battery pack includes a housing, battery modules, and a battery module support device.
[0064] In the above implementation process, the battery pack integrates the casing, battery modules, and battery module support device together, which improves the overall stability and reliability of the battery pack while simplifying the assembly and maintenance process.
[0065] Optionally, the support member in the battery module support device is bonded to the support frame by a heat exchange medium filled therein, and the battery cell in the battery module is placed on the second surface of the support member; wherein the heat exchange medium is configured to exchange heat with the battery module and the support frame.
[0066] In the above process, the support component is bonded to the support frame through a heat exchange medium filled within it. This not only achieves a stable connection between the support component and the support frame but also facilitates heat exchange between the support component and the battery module and the support frame through the heat exchange medium. Combining the mechanical support function of the support component with the heat dissipation function of the heat exchange medium forms a collaborative system. While ensuring stable support for the battery module, it effectively manages the thermal environment of the battery module, improving battery efficiency and lifespan.
[0067] Optionally, the heat exchange medium can be a viscous thermally conductive adhesive. This adhesive enhances the stability of the battery module and its support structure while effectively filling the gaps between the contact surfaces to transfer heat and improve heat transfer between the two materials. Specifically, epoxy thermally conductive adhesive, one-component RTV thermally conductive silicone, and thermally conductive silicone gel can be used.
[0068] In summary, this application provides a battery module support device and a battery pack, relating to the field of battery pack heat exchange technology. The battery module support device includes a support frame 300 and a support member 200; the support member 200 is disposed on the support surface of the support frame 300; the support member 200 includes a partially filled structure 210; the partially filled structure 210 includes a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other; the first surface contacts the support surface of the support frame 300, and the second surface is configured to support the battery module 100; wherein the first surface and the second surface have a consistent thickness. Through the partially filled structure 210, while ensuring stable support for the battery module 100, the amount of material used is effectively reduced, and the overall weight of the battery pack is lightened. Simultaneously, the partially filled structure 210 can be filled with a heat exchange medium, enabling the battery module 100 to effectively dissipate heat, improving heat exchange efficiency, extending the service life of the battery module 100 and the battery pack, and improving the overall energy density and performance of the battery pack.
[0069] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.
[0070] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising..." does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.
Claims
1. A battery module support device characterized by comprising: The battery module support device includes: a support frame and support components; The support member is disposed on the support surface of the support frame; The support member includes a partially filled structure; The incompletely filled structure includes a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other; the first surface is in contact with the support surface of the support frame, and the second surface is configured to support the battery module; The first surface and the second surface have the same thickness.
2. The battery module support apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by The incompletely filled structure also includes a limiting unit; The limiting unit is disposed between the first surface and the second surface, and divides the space between the first surface and the second surface; The thickness of the limiting unit is the same as the thickness between the first surface and the second surface.
3. The battery module support apparatus according to claim 2, characterized by The limiting unit includes connecting ribs; The connecting rib divides the space between the first surface and the second surface, and forms multiple closed areas around the connecting rib to create a hollow space in the closed areas; The direction of the cutout is towards the first surface or the second surface.
4. The battery module support apparatus according to claim 3, characterized by The enclosed region is a polygon; and two adjacent polygons have at least one parallel connecting rib.
5. The battery module support apparatus according to claim 4, characterized by The polygons include rectangles, rhombuses, and triangles.
6. The battery module support apparatus according to claim 3, characterized by The area of the enclosed region is smaller than the bottom area of a single cell in the battery module; and the side length of the enclosed region is smaller than any side length of the bottom surface of the single cell.
7. The battery module support apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by The support component further includes: a surrounding frame; The enclosure is provided around the incompletely filled structure between the first surface and the second surface; The frame has the same thickness as the partially filled structure.
8. The battery module support apparatus according to claim 7, characterized by The side of the frame that connects to the incompletely filled structure has a reinforcement section.
9. A battery pack, characterized by, The battery pack includes a housing, a battery module, and a battery module support device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.
10. The battery pack according to claim 9, characterized in that, The support member in the battery module support device is bonded to the support frame by a heat exchange medium filled therein, and the battery cell in the battery module is placed on the second surface of the support member. The heat exchange medium is configured to exchange heat with the battery module and the support frame.