motor vehicle

Abstract

Motor vehicle (1) comprising at least one support structure (2) forming part of the vehicle body and at least one electrical energy storage device (4) comprising several electrical energy storage cells (5), wherein the at least one support structure (2) is divided sectionally into at least two support structure segments (2a, 2b) and the at least one electrical energy storage device (4) is arranged in a receiving space (3) between the two support structure segments (2a, 2b) bounded by the at least two support structure segments (2a, 2b), characterized in thatthat at least one energy storage-side connection element (8) designed as a connector for a line connection (9) for the electrical connection of the energy storage device (4) with at least one motor vehicle-side electrical consumer and / or at least one connection element (8) for a line connection (9) for guiding a temperature control fluid for temperature control of the electrical energy storage device (4) is arranged or formed in a free space between the support structure-side bifurcation area (2d) and an exposed surface of the electrical energy storage device (4) opposite it.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising at least a support structure forming part of the vehicle body and at least one electrical energy storage device comprising several electrical energy storage cells.

[0002] It is known that electrical consumers present in motor vehicles, which include in particular a drive unit or electrical machines forming part thereof, can be supplied with electrical energy via electrical energy storage devices. Such electrical energy storage devices generally comprise a number of electrically interconnected energy storage cells. A common example is an electrical energy storage device comprising several electrical energy storage cells arranged in series or stacks and based on lithium or a lithium compound.

[0003] The arrangement of corresponding electrical energy storage devices can occupy a significant portion of the typically limited installation space available in motor vehicles.

[0004] There is a need for a way to integrate at least one corresponding electrical energy storage device as compactly as possible into a given vehicle structure, which also provides protection for the electrical energy storage device against mechanical stresses.

[0005] The invention is based on the objective of providing an improved motor vehicle, particularly with regard to a compact arrangement of electrical energy storage devices that protects against mechanical stresses.

[0006] The problem is solved by a motor vehicle of the type mentioned above, which is characterized in that the at least one support structure is divided sectionally into at least two support structure segments in a forking manner and the at least one electrical energy storage device is arranged in a receiving space between the two support structure segments bounded by the at least two support structure segments, wherein at least one energy storage-side connection element for a line connection for the electrical connection of the energy storage device with at least one motor vehicle-side electrical consumer and / or at least one connection element for a line connection for guiding a temperature control fluid for temperature control of the electrical energy storage device is arranged or formed in a space between the forking area on the support structure side and an exposed surface of the electrical energy storage device opposite it.

[0007] The motor vehicle described herein comprises at least one support structure forming part of the vehicle body and at least one electrical energy storage device (hereinafter referred to as energy storage device).

[0008] A support structure is generally understood to be a mechanically highly stable and therefore highly stress-resistant component of a motor vehicle, which supports part of the vehicle body. Such a support structure can fundamentally be a transverse support structure, i.e., a support structure extending transversely to the longitudinal (central) axis of the motor vehicle, or a longitudinal support structure, i.e., a support structure extending in or parallel to the longitudinal (central) axis of the motor vehicle.

[0009] A corresponding energy storage device comprises several electrical energy storage cells (hereinafter referred to as energy storage cells). The energy storage cells typically have a rectangular or cuboid geometric shape. Within a single- or multi-part, typically frame-like, housing device, i.e., within a receiving space defined by the housing device for receiving the corresponding energy storage cells, the energy storage cells can be arranged in parallel to one another in rows or stacks. Naturally, the energy storage cells are electrically interconnected, which determines the electrical properties of the energy storage device. The electrochemically active components of the respective energy storage cells can, for example, be lithium-based; thus, the respective energy storage cells can be, for example, lithium-ion.These are lithium-ion cells.

[0010] The energy storage cells used can be so-called pouch cells. Pouch cells are characterized in particular by their especially flat structure and can be optimally arranged in a designated energy storage-side receiving space, e.g., in an energy storage-side housing device. Individual pouch cells can be held in frame-like support structures, which can be advantageous with regard to their arrangement in a corresponding housing device.

[0011] The at least one support structure is geometrically and structurally designed such that it forks section by section into at least two support structure segments. The support structure thus has, with respect to its longitudinal extent, at least one section in which it is not forked into corresponding support structure segments, and at least one section in which it is forked into corresponding support structure segments. The transition zone between corresponding sections constitutes a forking zone of the support structure; a forking zone is therefore understood to be a section of the support structure in which the support structure forks from a section not divided into corresponding support structure segments into a section divided into corresponding support structure segments, or vice versa.Of course, it is possible that the respective support structure segments are rejoined in a further bifurcation area.

[0012] The at least two support structure segments can differ in their dimensions, i.e., in particular shape, cross-section, etc., generally in certain geometric-constructive parameters, or be identical.

[0013] In a corresponding bifurcation area, the support structure can, in particular, divide into at least two support structure segments in a Y-shape. The support structure segments represent the two sections of the Ypsilon that extend at an angle to each other from a base section.

[0014] The support structure segments, which typically extend parallel to each other at least partially, form a receiving space for the at least one energy storage device. The at least one energy storage device is thus arranged in the receiving or free space extending between the support structure segments. This provides a particularly compact arrangement for at least one corresponding energy storage device, protected from mechanical stresses by the structural, i.e., especially mechanical, properties of the support structure, which is typically a mechanically highly resilient component made of metal or a fiber composite material, and thus also of the support structure segments.

[0015] The arrangement of the energy storage device within the receiving space defined by the support structure segments is such that at least one energy storage-side connection element for a conductor connection for the electrical connection of the energy storage device to at least one vehicle-side electrical consumer, such as an electric machine constituting a drive unit of the vehicle, and / or at least one connection element for a conductor connection for guiding a temperature control fluid for temperature control of the energy storage device is arranged or formed in a space between the support structure-side bifurcation area and an exposed surface of the energy storage device opposite it. Corresponding connection elements are thus located in a receiving space defined by a space between the bifurcation area and the surface of the energy storage device opposite it.Free space and thus arranged or designed in a compact manner and protected from mechanical stresses.

[0016] Corresponding connection elements can be designed as connector plugs or at least include a connector plug. Naturally, in this case, corresponding plug elements are provided on the connecting cables to the connector plugs on the connection element side.

[0017] Although, as mentioned, the support structure could be a transverse beam structure, it is preferably a longitudinal beam structure extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, i.e., in or parallel to the longitudinal (center) axis of the vehicle. Such a longitudinal beam structure could be a sill of the vehicle or part of a sill. This also highlights the particularly compact arrangement of the energy storage system.

[0018] A most compact arrangement of such an energy storage device is achieved when the energy storage device has a cuboid shape and is arranged within the receiving space defined by at least two support structure segments, with one longitudinal axis extending in or parallel to the longitudinal (center) axis of the vehicle. In this case, the connection elements are arranged or formed on one end face of the energy storage device.

[0019] The support structure can extend along the underbody of the vehicle, for example, as a sill or part of a sill. An energy storage device can project vertically, at least partially, into a recess provided for this purpose in the vehicle's underbody. The vehicle's underbody can thus be prepared with a corresponding recess to accommodate at least part of such an energy storage device in the vertical direction. This also contributes to a more compact arrangement of the energy storage device. These underbody recesses are typically adapted to the dimensions of the energy storage device(s) to be accommodated, allowing for a precise fit within the recess(s).

[0020] The at least one energy storage device, or at least one energy storage device, can be arranged, in particular, below the driver's and / or front passenger's seat. This variant is particularly relevant in connection with the aforementioned partial integration of corresponding energy storage devices into appropriate recesses in the underbody. Alternatively or additionally, the energy storage device, or at least one energy storage device, can be arranged in the area of ​​a trunk, particularly a rear one.

[0021] A suitable energy storage device can comprise a tray-like receiving device for the energy storage cells or a housing device that receives the energy storage cells. In this case, appropriate connection elements can be arranged or formed on the tray-like receiving device. A suitable tray-like receiving device serves, in particular, to protect the energy storage cells from mechanical and climatic stresses occurring during the operation of the motor vehicle. A suitable tray-like receiving device can be attached to the vehicle body via suitable mounting sections, e.g., in the form of holes through which mounting screws can be inserted, thus enabling the energy storage device to be attached to the vehicle body.

[0022] To protect corresponding connection elements from mechanical and climatic stresses, at least one cover element can be provided that at least partially covers the connection element. Such a cover element thus covers the connection elements at least partially, typically completely, particularly from the road surface. Corresponding connection elements can therefore be arranged between such a cover element and an upper vehicle structure, thus protecting them from mechanical and climatic stresses. Such a cover element is expediently made of a chemically resistant and mechanically highly resilient material. This material can be, for example, a metal, a plastic, or a fiber composite. Suitable metals include, in particular, aluminum or titanium.Aluminum or titanium alloys, as suitable plastics in particular with suitable reinforcing fibers, e.g. glass fibers, filled thermoplastic or thermosetting plastics and as suitable fiber composite materials in particular fiber layups formed from glass, carbon or aramid fibers in a thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic matrix are considered.

[0023] Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the exemplary embodiments described below and from the drawings. These show:

[0024] Fig. 1– Fig. 3 each a schematic representation of a section of a motor vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0025] The Fig. 1– Fig. Figure 3 each shows a schematic representation of a section of a motor vehicle. 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The one in the Fig. 1– Fig. Figure 3 shows a support structure forming part of the vehicle body (not shown in detail), which is made of a metal, such as steel or aluminum, or a fiber composite material. 2 . This shows Fig. 1. Supervision of a part of the support structure 2 , Fig. 2 a side view of part of the support structure 2 and Fig. 3 a perspective view of part of the support structure 2 .

[0026] Regarding the support structure 2 It is a longitudinal movement of the motor vehicle. 1 , i.e., one parallel to the longitudinal (central) axis of the motor vehicle 1 Extending, longitudinal beam structure. The beam structure 2 In the embodiment shown in the figure, it forms part of a sill of the motor vehicle. 1 .

[0027] Based on the Fig. 1, Fig. 3. It can be seen that the support structure 2 In geometric and structural terms, it is designed in such a way that it branches out section by section into two support structure segments. 2a , 2b divides.

[0028] The two support structure segments 2a , 2b They can differ in their dimensions, i.e., in particular shape, cross-section, etc., generally in certain geometric-constructive parameters, or be identically designed.

[0029] The support structure 2 has at least one section with respect to its longitudinal extent 2c , in which these do not branch into corresponding support structure segments 2a , 2b is divided, and at least one section in which it branches off into corresponding support structure segments. 2a , 2bThe transition area between corresponding sections represents a bifurcation. 2d the support structure 2 The supporting structure is clearly divided. 2 in the fork area 2d Y-shaped into the two support structure segments 2a , 2b The support structure segments are evident. 2a , 2b The two sections of the Ypsilon, which run at an angle to each other and project at an angle from a base section, are represented.

[0030] The support structure segments extending parallel to each other in the embodiment shown in the Fig. 2a , 2b form a recording space 3 for a cuboid energy storage system 4 The energy storage system 4 is therefore in the area between the support structure segments 2a , 2b extending recording space 3with a longitudinal axis in or parallel to the longitudinal (center) axis of the motor vehicle 1 extending into the recording room 3 arranged. This results in a particularly compact design, due to the structural, i.e., especially mechanical, properties of the support structure. 2 and thus also the support structure segments 2a , 2b Arrangement option for the energy storage device that is protected against mechanical stresses 4 given.

[0031] The energy storage 4 includes a number of energy storage cells 5 The energy storage cells 5 They are designed as pouch cells and therefore have a rectangular or cuboid geometric shape or basic form. The energy storage cells 5In the embodiment shown in the Fig., the surfaces, which depict their basic shape, are within a one- or multi-part, typically frame-like, housing device. 6 , i.e. in a through the housing device 6 limited space for accommodating corresponding energy storage cells 5 , arranged in parallel rows or stacks. The energy storage cells 5 are electrically interconnected, from which the electrical properties of the energy storage device are derived. 4 The electrochemically active components of the energy storage cells result. 5 In the embodiment shown in the Fig., they are based on lithium; thus, the respective energy storage cells are lithium. 5 in the embodiment shown in the Fig., lithium-ion cells.

[0032] The energy storage 4In the embodiment shown in the Fig., it further comprises a trough-like receiving device. 7 to accommodate the energy storage cells 5 receiving housing device 6 The tub-like receiving device 7 It serves in particular to power the energy storage cells 5 before during the operation of the motor vehicle 1 to protect against mechanical and climatic stresses. The trough-like receiving device 7 is attached to the vehicle body via suitable mounting sections (not shown), e.g. in the form of holes through which mounting screws can be inserted, thus also securing the energy storage device. 4 is implemented on the vehicle body.

[0033] The arrangement of the energy storage system 4 in which the support structure segments 2a , 2b limited recording space 3is such that energy storage-side connection elements 8 for a line connection 9 (cf.) Fig. 3), e.g. in the form of a high- or low-voltage cable, for the electrical connection of the energy storage device 4 with at least one electrical consumer on the vehicle side, such as an electric machine, and for a line connection 9 (cf. ibid.) for the guidance of a temperature control fluid for temperature control of the energy storage device 4 in a bifurcation area between the support structure side 2d and an exposed surface of the electrical energy storage device opposite it 4 , i.e., in the embodiment shown in the Fig. of the associated tub-like receiving device 7 , are arranged. The connecting elements 8 are therefore in a space formed by a path between the forking area 2dand the area of ​​the energy storage opposite it 4 , i.e., in the embodiment shown in the Fig., the surface opposite the energy storage device. 4 associated tub-like receiving device 7 , limited recording or free space 10 arranged.

[0034] Regarding the connection elements 8 The embodiment shown in the figure depicts connector plugs. The connectors are attached to the connection elements. 8 The connecting cables to be attached are equipped with plug elements corresponding to the connection element-side plug connectors.

[0035] Based on Fig. 2. It can be seen that the support structure 2 along the underbody of the motor vehicle 1 extends. The energy storage 4 It is located below the driver's or passenger's seat.

[0036] The energy storage 4 protrudes vertically, at least in sections, into a space provided for this purpose in the underbody of the motor vehicle 1 Formed recess (not shown). The underbody of the motor vehicle 1 It therefore has a corresponding recess to accommodate at least part of the energy storage capacity. 4 Prepared in a vertical direction. The recess on the underside is typically adapted to the dimensions of the energy storage device to be installed therein. 4 adapted so that it can be arranged precisely in the recess.

[0037] To protect the corresponding connection elements 8 The connecting elements are protected against mechanical as well as climatic stresses. 8 covering cover element 11 provided. The cover element 11 covers the connection elements 8 compared to a road surface 12off. Accordingly, the connecting elements 8 between the cover element 11 and arranged in an upper vehicle structure protected from mechanical as well as climatic stresses.

[0038] The cover element 11 It is made of a chemically resistant and mechanically highly resilient material. Such a material could be, for example, a metal such as aluminum.

Claims

[1] motor vehicle ( 1 ), comprising at least a support structure forming part of the vehicle body ( 2 ) and at least one or more electrical energy storage cells ( 5 ) comprehensive electrical energy storage ( 4 ), characterized by that at least one support structure ( 2 ) sectionally branching into at least two support structure segments ( 2a , 2b ) is divided and includes at least one electrical energy storage device ( 4 ) in one through which at least two support structure segments ( 2a , 2b ) limited recording space ( 3 ) between the two support structure segments ( 2a , 2b ) is arranged, wherein at least one energy storage-side connection element ( 8 ) for a line connection ( 9 ) for the electrical connection of the energy storage device ( 4) with at least one vehicle-side electrical consumer and / or at least one connection element ( 8 ) for a line connection ( 9 ) for guiding a temperature control fluid to regulate the temperature of the electrical energy storage device ( 4 ) in a bifurcation area between the support structure side ( 2d ) and an exposed surface of the electrical energy storage device opposite it ( 4 ) is arranged or trained. [2] Motor vehicle according to claim 1, characterized by that the support structure ( 2 ) a longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) extending longitudinal beam structure. [3] Motor vehicle according to claim 2, characterized by that the longitudinal beam structure is a sill of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) or part of a sill of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) is. [4] Motor vehicle according to any of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the support structure ( 2 ) in the fork area ( 2d ) Y-shaped into at least two support structure segments ( 2a , 2b ) divides. [5] Motor vehicle according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one electrical energy storage device ( 4 ) has a cuboid-like basic shape and is oriented with a longitudinal axis in or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) extending through the at least two support structure segments ( 2a , 2b ) limited recording space ( 3 ) is arranged. [6] Motor vehicle according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the support structure ( 2 ) along the underbody of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) extends and the at least electrical energy storage ( 4 ) in a vertical direction, at least section by section, into a space provided for this purpose in the underbody of the motor vehicle ( 1) formed recess protrudes. [7] Motor vehicle according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one electrical energy storage device ( 4 ) or at least an electrical energy storage device ( 4 ) is located below the driver's and / or front passenger's seat and / or contains at least one electrical energy storage device ( 4 ) or at least an electrical energy storage device ( 4 ) is located in the area of ​​a trunk, particularly a rear one. [8] Motor vehicle according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the electrical energy storage ( 4 ) a tub-like receiving device ( 7 ) to accommodate the electrical energy storage cells ( 5 ) or one of the electrical energy storage cells ( 5 ) receiving housing device ( 6 ) comprises, wherein the at least one connecting element ( 8) on the tub-like receiving device ( 7 ) is arranged or trained. [9] Motor vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one connecting element ( 8 ) covering element that covers at least sections ( 11 ). [10] Motor vehicle according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the electrical energy storage cells ( 5 ) are formed as pouch cells. [11] Motor vehicle according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one connection element as ( 8 ) is designed as a connector or at least includes a connector.

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