Heat exchange module for an energy storage module, and a manufacturing process for such a heat exchange module

Abstract

Heat exchange module (1) for an energy storage module (2), comprising at least the following components: - a module housing (3) for heat transfer contact with an energy storage module (2); - at least one operating fluid channel (4) for an operating fluid for heat transport;and- at least one fluid connection (5) for at least one external line (6) for the operating fluid of the service channel (4), characterized in that at least one receiving opening (7) with a predetermined cross-section is formed in the channel-ward extension of the service channel (4), in which a plug (8) with a shape filling the predetermined cross-section of the receiving opening (7) is fluid-tightly connected to the receiving opening (7), wherein the receiving opening (7) forms a uniform end face of the module housing, wherein the module housing (3) is closed off on the outside by the plug (8) flush with the receiving opening (7) of the service channel (4) or the plug (8) is recessed inwards in the receiving opening (7).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a heat exchange module for an energy storage module, and to a manufacturing method for such a heat exchange module.

[0002] Energy storage modules in fully or partially electric vehicles are currently cooled using liquid cooling. One idea for a cost-effective solution is to manufacture a suitable battery module housing using extrusion. In this process, the cooling channels for the liquid cooling system can be integrated into the extruded profile of the battery module housing in the form of chambers. Cooling channels with a non-circular cross-section are advantageous for achieving good packing density (high space utilization efficiency).

[0003] According to current technology, axially pressed molded seals are used to seal such non-circular cross-sections. In the case of extruded, integrated cooling channels, this leads to an increased installation space requirement in the extrusion direction, because such a (wedge-shaped) molded seal must protrude along the channel to achieve a reliable seal. It is always essential to utilize the available installation space efficiently, where even a few millimeters can represent a significant competitive advantage.

[0004] Based on this, the present invention aims to overcome, at least partially, the disadvantages known from the prior art. The features of the invention are defined in the independent claims, for which advantageous embodiments are shown in the dependent claims. The features of the claims can be combined in any technically meaningful way, whereby the explanations in the following description and features from the figures, which comprise supplementary embodiments of the invention, can also be used.

[0005] The invention relates to a heat exchange module for an energy storage module, comprising at least the following components: - a module housing for heat transfer contact with an energy storage module; - at least one service channel for a service fluid for heat transfer; and - at least one fluid connection for at least one external line for the operating fluid of the operating fluid channel.

[0006] The heat exchange module is characterized in particular by the fact that at least one receiving opening with a predetermined cross-section is formed in the channel-ward extension of the receiving opening, in which a plug with a shape filling the predetermined cross-section of the receiving opening is fluid-tightly connected to the receiving opening.

[0007] The following text refers to the aforementioned axis of rotation whenever the axial direction, radial direction, or direction of rotation and corresponding terms are used, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Ordinal numbers used in the preceding and subsequent descriptions serve solely for unambiguous identification and do not indicate any order or ranking of the components referred to. An ordinal number greater than one does not necessarily imply the presence of another such component.

[0008] The heat exchange module proposed here is designed to cool (or, if necessary, heat) an energy storage module, such as a car battery (for example, a traction battery in an electrified powertrain of a motor vehicle), in order to operate the energy storage module within an optimal temperature range and / or to prevent or delay the well-known dendrite formation in lithium-based electric batteries. The module housing is in close contact with the energy storage module and is made of a material with excellent thermal conductivity. Furthermore, a self-supporting structure and / or crash safety features may be incorporated.

[0009] The at least one service fluid channel is designed to carry a flow of service fluid, preferably a liquid or alternatively a refrigerant or gas, with the aim of ensuring good heat transfer between the service fluid and the module housing. When a fluid-tight connection is mentioned here, this refers to the service fluid used. For example, with a (always) liquid service fluid in which the gas content is negligible, a liquid-tight connection may suffice. In one embodiment, a meandering channel is formed, with the channel sections arranged parallel to each other, for example, in the extrusion direction in an extruded heat exchanger module, and each forming a channel bend at its end face. It is not necessary for the channel sections to be fluid-tight from each other. Rather, leakage between the individual channel sections is permissible.

[0010] The at least one fluid connection is configured for introducing and / or discharging the operating fluid, for which purpose an external line, for example, a component of a cooling circuit in a motor vehicle, can be connected and is connected in a motor vehicle when installed. In one embodiment, the external line can be pressed into the fluid connection. In another embodiment, the external line is already connected to the fluid connection before installation, for example, by being formed integrally with it. In one embodiment, a heat exchange module comprises two fluid connections, namely an inlet and an outlet, with the entire operating fluid channel extending between the inlet and the outlet as a functional group. In another embodiment, a plurality of such functional groups are provided in the heat exchange module.

[0011] It is proposed here that a receiving opening for a plug is formed in the channel-ward extension of the service channel (or a channel section). The plug is designed with a corresponding shape so that it completely fills the predetermined cross-section of this receiving opening. It should be noted that in a preferred embodiment, the plug is received with some clearance in the receiving opening. In one embodiment, this clearance is closed in a subsequent step after assembly, so that the connection between the plug and the receiving opening is then fluid-tight. In another embodiment, the plug is wedge-shaped at least on the insertion side (i.e., towards the service channel) in the channel-ward direction, with the plug being received in the receiving opening along its entire length.The plug is fluid-tight in the receiving opening if, for example, the plug rests fully against the surface, rests around the perimeter, is free of play or is received with a relative oversize, whereby the respective contact surface is formed in a sealing manner.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the (predetermined) cross-section of the receiving opening is identical to the cross-section of the service channel or the relevant channel section. That is, there is no constriction or widening, nor any local projection or recess. For example, the receiving opening is created during the extrusion or compression molding of the heat exchange module, where each heat exchange module is a cut-off portion of the strand produced during compression molding. The at least one service channel and the receiving opening are therefore identical, except that the receiving opening is located at the end face after the relevant heat exchange module has been cut. In this embodiment, the direction of the receiving opening extending along the channel is the manufacturing axis (intrinsic to the compression molding process).

[0013] More generally, an axis is formed by the channel extension, which is defined by the course of the flowable portion of the service channel. For example, the channel extension is an extrapolated course of the service channel into the receiving opening. For example, the channel extension is a normal to the predetermined cross-section of the service channel at the transition to the receiving opening. The length of the receiving opening is determined by the length of the plug or its installation length (dictated by the assembly and / or sealing principle). The receiving opening and the flowable service channel preferably merge directly into one another without any further intermediate element and / or without a change in cross-section.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, at least one plug is provided on each channel-side end face of the heat exchange module. This is particularly advantageous for manufacturing the heat exchange module by extrusion.

[0015] A cooling interface for the cooling system of an energy storage module, such as a car battery, is thus provided. A module housing, for example extruded, is proposed, incorporating at least one non-circular fluid channel integrated within hollow chambers and a cooling circuit positioned outside the energy storage module. The extruded module housing is machined such that the fluid channel has a receiving opening in its (channel-side) end region, in which a plug is arranged. This plug is watertightly connected to the module housing by at least one joining method and preferably has a round hole that forms the fluid connection. A fluid-carrying coolant connection of an external line can be watertightly connected via this fluid connection and is operationally connected.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the receiving opening is arranged in the module housing such that it does not project beyond the overall extent of the module housing. The receiving opening is thus positioned with its extent in the channel-ward extension of the operating channel within the module housing. Together with the receiving opening, this results in a uniform, preferably flat, end face of the module housing. In this preferred embodiment, the receiving opening is therefore not a component that extends the extent of the module housing channel-ward, for example, in the direction of the extrusion axis. For example, the module housing produced by extrusion is cut flat, preferably with a cut surface to which the extrusion axis is perpendicular. This cut surface then forms the end face.The extension of the receiving opening in the channel-ward extension of the operating channel extends inwards in relation to the direction of the extrusion axis.

[0017] In one embodiment, the module housing is machined by milling.

[0018] In an advantageous embodiment of the heat exchange module, it is further proposed that the plug includes the fluid connection.

[0019] In this particularly advantageous embodiment, the fluid connection is formed directly by or within the plug, so that no additional opening requiring sealing needs to be created in the heat exchange module for the fluid connection. In one embodiment, the pipe-side connection piece and the fluid connection area, preferably the entire plug, are formed from a material pairing that can be designed to provide a positive seal. Thus, no additional sealing step is necessary. In one embodiment, the fluid connection is already present before the plug is inserted into the receiving opening of the heat exchange module, and in another embodiment, only after the plug has been inserted. Preferably, the fluid connection (regardless of its location within the heat exchange module) has a (narrowest) flow cross-section that is significantly smaller than the (narrowest) flow cross-section of the service fluid channel.This creates a throttling effect, resulting in improved flow uniformity and thus promoting efficient heat exchange. The diameter of the hole in the plug, which forms the fluid connection, is varied according to the desired throttling of the cooling medium.

[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment of the heat exchange module, it is proposed that the plug forms the outer wall of a channel bend.

[0021] In this embodiment, a channel bend is formed at the end face of the plug in the case of meandering channel sections of the service channel (e.g., parallel to each other). According to this embodiment, the plug simultaneously forms the outer wall of the channel bend, i.e., the wall section that is arranged at the end face of the heat exchange module. A channel divider, by means of which two (e.g., parallel) channel sections are fluidically separated from each other, is designed to be recessed away from the plug in the area of ​​a channel bend, so that, preferably for the lowest possible flow resistance, the narrowest cross-section of the channel bend is not smaller than the remaining cross-section of the service channel.In one embodiment, fewer plugs are provided than there are channel sections encountered at the end face, for example, only a single plug at one end of the heat exchanger module, with each plug sealing a plurality of channel sections in a fluid-tight manner downstream. In another embodiment, or at a corresponding location in the service channel, the plug is arranged abutting a channel divider, with a clearance provided in one embodiment so that, due to component tolerances and / or assembly, leakage may occur between these adjacent channel sections. In another embodiment, or at a corresponding location in the service channel, the plug is significantly spaced from the channel divider, so that a channel bend with minimal flow resistance is formed there.

[0022] One or more of the plugs are then designed without a hole and are set up to divert the cooling medium from one channel section to an adjacent one.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment of the heat exchange module, it is further proposed that the plug be fluid-tightly connected to the receiving opening by means of at least one of the following material bonding methods: - Friction stir welding; - Laser welding; - Gas metal arc welding; and / or - Stick.

[0024] Friction stir welding allows for reliable fluid-tight welds across a large number of contact surfaces within a very large thermal influence range of a friction stir pin, using simple means. This method is cost-effective and, due to the large thermal influence range and the resulting melting of interfaces within it, requires minimal testing to ensure the contact surfaces are successfully sealed fluid-tight.

[0025] Laser welding achieves a precise and relatively low-energy weld. Provided the weld seam coordinates are reliably followed, the resulting seal is highly reliable. At the same time, the thermal input, and thus any potentially vulnerable microstructure of the heat exchanger module, is only affected very locally, namely only within the weld seam itself.

[0026] Gas metal arc welding (GMAW) is a very cost-effective process that can be performed mechanically or manually. Its thermal influence is also limited, with the same advantages and disadvantages as laser welding. However, compared to laser welding, the thermal influence is somewhat larger, and the susceptibility to leaks due to welding defects is higher.

[0027] In a welding process, several plugs can be attached to the module housing in the same step and connected in a fluid-tight manner.

[0028] Bonding can be carried out with no or only negligible (impairing) thermal influence on the material and, with suitable process control, can be reliably fluid-tight using simple means. However, long-term durability may be critical, for example, under vibration loads in mobile applications in a motor vehicle and / or within a target or maximum permissible temperature range.

[0029] In an advantageous embodiment of the heat exchange module, it is further proposed that the module housing includes a receiving chamber adjacent to the service channel for an energy storage module.

[0030] In this embodiment, a receiving chamber for an energy storage module is already integrated, preferably as a single piece, into the module housing of the heat exchanger module. This allows for a very thin wall between the at least one operating channel and the receiving chamber (or the energy storage module), resulting in very low thermal resistance. This, in turn, enables the energy storage module to handle high power peaks because the resulting heat can be dissipated effectively, and very fine temperature control is possible. With precise temperature control, operating costs and the energy consumption of the cooling circuit can be reduced.

[0031] In a further advantageous embodiment of the heat exchange module, it is proposed that the module housing is closed off flush with the receiving opening of the operating medium channel on the outside by the plug, or that the plug is recessed into the receiving opening on the inside of the channel.

[0032] In this embodiment, particularly when the plug is flush with the receiving opening of the fluid channel, a high heat transfer efficiency can be achieved in a minimal installation space. In a preferred embodiment, compared to a pressed-in plug, the materially bonded plug has a very short installation length (encompassing the sealing surface). Using a suitable joining method, such as welding, sufficient strength for the fluid pressure in the fluid channel and a sufficiently fluid-tight connection can be achieved with a very narrow (circumferential) sealing surface.

[0033] According to another aspect, a manufacturing process is proposed for a heat exchange module according to an embodiment as described above, comprising at least the following steps: a. Providing the module housing and at least one plug; b. Inserting at least one plug into the corresponding receiving opening; and c. fluid-tight connection of the plug to the receiving opening.

[0034] A manufacturing process is proposed here by which the heat exchange module, in an embodiment as described above, can be produced simply and cost-effectively. First, in step a., the module housing and at least one plug, preferably at least one plug for each end face of the service channel, are provided. In step b., the plug is inserted into the corresponding receiving opening, for example, designed with a slight relative undersize along the channel-side extension. Finally, the remaining gap or the two corresponding contact surfaces are sealed fluid-tight.At the same time, the plug is mechanically fixed in such a way that it remains in the receiving opening for a desired service life under operating medium pressure in the operating medium channel and under any external loads that may occur (e.g. vibration), and is fluid-tight.

[0035] In an advantageous embodiment of the manufacturing process, it is further proposed that in step d. the fluid connection is formed according to an embodiment as described above: - before step b., or - after step c.

[0036] In one embodiment, the fluid connection is already installed before the plug is inserted into the receiving opening, i.e., before step b. This enables the plug to be produced very cost-effectively (separately) prior to the manufacturing process described here.

[0037] In another embodiment, the fluid connection is introduced only after the plug has been fluid-tightly joined to the receiving opening, preferably within the plug itself. This allows for process control during the formation of the fluid-tight connection, where the shape and type of fluid connection do not yet need to be considered. Particularly in friction stir welding, which involves a very large thermal influence area, a previously introduced fluid connection leads to deformation of the fluid connection and / or to a difficult-to-control thermal influence on the corresponding (circumferential) contact surfaces of the fluid-tight connection to be created between the plug and the receiving opening. The fluid connection is, for example, machined, preferably by drilling.

[0038] The diameter of the hole in the plug can be varied according to a desired throttling of the cooling medium, for example, individually adapted to existing tolerances of the flow resistances.

[0039] In a further advantageous embodiment of the manufacturing process, it is proposed that, prior to step b., a channel turn in the module housing is prepared in step e. by shortening a channel separating web on the inside of the channel turn in the insertion direction of the corresponding plug.

[0040] In this embodiment, which is preferably used with an extruded module housing, the relevant channel divider is shortened, for example by milling, in step e. where a channel turn is to be created. As soon as the plug, which closes off at least the two relevant channel sections on both sides of the shortened channel divider, is inserted into the corresponding receiving opening, a channel turn is formed (after step b. or fluid-tight after step c.). The plug then forms the outer wall of the channel turn.

[0041] In a further advantageous embodiment of the manufacturing process, it is proposed that the receiving opening is adapted to the plug before step b. in step f.

[0042] In this embodiment, the receiving opening must be machined before the plug can be inserted in step b. In one embodiment, this step f. takes place before step a., for example, immediately after separating the relevant module housing from the extruded blank, which comprises a plurality of module housings along its extrusion length. Depending on the tolerances of the extrusion profile, the inner surface of the service channel is mechanically machined in the area of ​​the end face of the extrusion profile. Such modification includes, for example, changing the surface roughness, introducing a chamfer to facilitate assembly, widening the receiving opening compared to the flowable section of the service channel, forming a stop or a poka-yoke recess for the plug, applying a surface coating, a surface treatment, and / or reducing the relative tolerance.In one embodiment, cleaning is carried out before the plug is inserted and / or as a final step of the process, removing chips, welding residues and / or oil residues as well as other contaminants.

[0043] According to a further aspect, a motor vehicle is proposed comprising at least one electric drive machine connected to drive wheels in a torque-transmitting manner and at least one energy storage module in a heat exchange module according to an embodiment as described above, wherein the electric drive machine can be supplied with a supply voltage for propelling the motor vehicle by means of the energy storage module.

[0044] A motor vehicle, for example a passenger car, is proposed here, comprising at least one drive engine, such as an internal combustion engine and / or an electric drive engine, and at least one drive wheel for its own propulsion. The drive wheel is connected to the at least one drive engine via a transmission, and preferably a differential, to transmit torque. Thus, the motor vehicle can be moved by means of the at least one drive engine. The power demand of the at least one drive engine, and potentially other consumers in the motor vehicle, causes heat generation in the energy storage module, here, for example, a so-called traction battery. This heat can be efficiently dissipated by means of the heat exchanger module, requiring very little installation space.In an alternative application, the heat exchange module is used to heat the energy storage module to an optimal temperature (for example in winter), thus increasing the usable power of the energy storage module.

[0045] The invention described above is explained in detail below against the relevant technical background with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show preferred embodiments. The invention is in no way limited by the purely schematic drawings, although it should be noted that the drawings are not dimensionally accurate and are not suitable for defining size relationships. It is illustrated in Fig. 1: a heat exchanger module in a frontal top view; Fig. 2: a section of the heat exchanger module according to Fig. 1 in section view AA; Fig. 3: A section of the heat exchange module in an alternative embodiment in section AA in Fig. 1 corresponding view; Fig. 4: a flowchart of a manufacturing process for a heat exchanger module; and Fig. 5: a motor vehicle with a heat exchanger module.

[0046] In Fig. Figure 1 shows a heat exchange module 1 in a front view, the module housing 3 of which is produced, for example, by extrusion. The module housing 3 includes a receiving chamber 11 (here optionally integrated as a single piece), which is designed to receive an energy storage module 2. As shown, receiving openings 7 are formed above the receiving chamber 11 in the channel-side extension of the channel sections (compare Figure 1). Fig. 2), here in the form of two elongated holes, which are produced, for example, by milling. The two receiving openings 7 are separated by a channel divider 12. The channel divider 12 is (optionally) formed integrally with the module housing 3. A plug 8 with a corresponding shape is inserted into each of the receiving openings 7, such that the plug 8 completely fills the predetermined cross-section of the receiving opening 7. Preferably, the plugs 8 are received with clearance in their respective receiving openings 7. In order to connect the plugs 8 to the receiving openings 7 and seal them fluid-tight, friction stir welding is used as the material joining process in this embodiment. For this purpose, a friction stir pin 15 moves in the direction of friction stir 16, shown here from left to right, across the end face of the heat exchange module 1 (arranged in the plane of the sheet).The kinetic energy is converted into heat, and the material is melted at the interfaces of the plugs 8 (and preferably the receiving openings 7), thus creating a material-bonded and reliably fluid-tight connection between the inserted plug 8 and the receiving opening 7. Furthermore, the plug 8, arranged on the left as shown, includes a fluid connection 5 (optionally circular here), which is designed for introducing and / or discharging the operating fluid and is connected to an external line 6 (see figure). Fig. 2 and Fig. 3) Furthermore, a section plane AA is drawn here, which corresponds to the section view in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 corresponds to Fig. Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment.

[0047] In Fig. 2 is a section of the heat exchange module 1 according to Fig. Figure 1 shows a sectional view AA. It is clearly visible that, as shown, a service fluid channel 4 is formed above the left plug 8 of the heat exchange module 1, and above the right plug 8, the service fluid channel 4 forms a channel bend 10. In this embodiment, a service fluid channel 4 is formed with (here schematically three) parallel channel sections. It can be seen that the receiving openings 7 are formed in the channel-ward extension, i.e., in the extension of the orientation of the channel sections parallel to the channel dividers 12. For example, the fluid connection 5 is an inlet, and on the opposite end face (outside the shown section), another fluid connection is formed as an outlet for the service fluid at the rightmost channel section, or vice versa.In such an embodiment, the module housing 3 comprises a single fluid channel 4. Alternatively, multiple fluid channels 4 are formed, each with an inlet and an outlet, i.e., two fluid connections 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the leftmost channel section is fluidically separated from the middle channel section by means of a channel divider 12, and the middle channel section is fluidically separated from the rightmost channel section by means of another channel divider 12 (over the predetermined length, i.e., up to a channel bend 10). The channel bend 10 shown in this section between the middle channel section and the right channel section is designed to be recessed (away from the plug 8), for example, by milling the right channel divider 12. The right plug 8, as shown in the illustration, simultaneously forms the outer wall 9 for the illustrated channel bend 10.For example, the cross-sections of the receiving openings 7 formed in the channel extension are identical to the cross-sections of the respective channel section, with the plug 8 on the right, as shown, overlapping the corresponding channel dividing web 12 of the channel bend 10. A stepless transition between the channel section and the receiving opening 7 is advantageous, for example, when the module housing 3 is manufactured by extrusion, eliminating the need for post-processing of the receiving openings 7. Here, the plugs 8 are each inserted into the receiving openings 7 of the module housing 3 in the insertion direction 13 (as shown, from bottom to top). The insertion direction 13 is oriented towards the channel. Subsequently, the plugs 8 are bonded to the module housing 3 in the respective receiving opening 7 by friction stir welding, creating a material-bonded and fluid-tight connection.Here, (optionally) a flush termination is formed between the plugs 8 and the module housing 3, either towards the channel or with the end face of the module housing 3. This ensures that, with respect to a (predetermined) installation depth of the plug 8 in the (channel-ward) insertion direction 13, the overall length of the heat exchange module 1 is minimized, even with a long service channel 4. It should be noted that the installation depth of the plugs 8 is significantly less than in conventional designs with pressed-in nozzles (for example, in the insertion direction 13). Furthermore, the fluid connection 5 in the left plug 8 is shown here, which is connected to an external line 6, preferably watertight. The fluid connection 5 is created, for example, by subsequent drilling.

[0048] In Fig. Figure 3 is a section of a heat exchange module 1 in an alternative embodiment according to Fig. Figure 3 shows a sectional view AA. The differences shown here are described below, followed by a reference to the previous description of the embodiment according to [reference to relevant section]. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Referenced. In contrast to Fig. In the illustrated embodiment, only a receiving opening 7 is formed in the module housing 3. A single corresponding plug 8 is received therein. In this embodiment, a clearance is (optionally) formed between the left channel divider 12 and the (single) plug 8, so that, due to component tolerances and / or assembly tolerances, leakage may occur between the adjacent channel sections. The right-hand operating channel 4 is identical to the one shown in Fig. 2 formed, wherein the (single) plug 8 here forms the outer wall 9 of the channel bend 10. Regardless of the embodiment of the plug 8, it is (optionally) sealed here to the receiving opening 7 by means of a laser weld 17 in a material-bonded and fluid-tight manner.

[0049] In Fig. Figure 4 shows a flowchart of a manufacturing process for a heat exchange module 1 with optional steps d., e., and f. For an understanding of the manufacturing process, reference is made to the embodiments according to [reference to embodiments]. Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. In step a., the module housing 3 and at least one plug 8 are provided, and then in step b., the plug 8 is inserted into the corresponding receiving opening 7, for example by pushing it in in the insertion direction 13. Prior to this, (optionally) in step e., the channel bend 10 in the module housing 3 is prepared by shortening a channel separating web 12 on the inside of the channel bend 10 in the insertion direction 13 of the corresponding plug 8, for example by milling. Furthermore, in an (optional) step f., the receiving opening 7 is adapted to the requirements of the plug 8 and / or the connection method in step c., i.e., its shape is changed and / or its surface is machined. In an embodiment in which the receiving opening 7 is adapted according to step f.If reworking is required, the receiving opening 7 is preferably reworked simultaneously with the formation of the channel curve 10 in a milling operation, whereby, if necessary (with an end mill having a constant diameter over its plunge length), the channel sections in the area of ​​a channel curve 10 are enlarged. Step c. comprises the fluid-tight joining of the plug 8 to the receiving opening 7, for example by laser welding or friction stir welding. (Optionally, finally) in an (optional) step d., the fluid connection 5 is formed in the plug 8, for example by drilling.

[0050] In Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic top view of a motor vehicle 14. (Optionally) a (optionally electric) drive motor 18 is arranged in the rear region, which is connected to a left rear drive wheel 20 and a right rear drive wheel 21 via a transmission 24 and a differential 25 for propulsion of the motor vehicle 14. In the front region of the motor vehicle 14, a left front drive wheel 22 and a right front drive wheel 23 are arranged, preferably steerable, which (optionally additionally or alternatively) are also connected to a second (optionally electric) drive motor 19 for torque transmission. Here, a heat exchange module 1 is arranged (optionally between the rear drive wheels 20, 21 and the front drive wheels 22, 23), for example according to an embodiment according to [reference missing]. Fig. 1 to Fig.3 provided, which includes an energy storage module 2, preferably designed as a traction battery for supplying at least one of the drive motors 18,19.

[0051] The heat exchange module proposed here makes efficient use of installation space and is also cost-effective to manufacture.

Claims

[1] Heat exchange module (1) for an energy storage module (2), comprising at least the following components: - a module housing (3) for heat transfer contact with an energy storage module (2); - at least one operating fluid channel (4) for an operating fluid for heat transfer; and - at least one fluid connection (5) for at least one external line (6) for the operating fluid of the operating fluid channel (4), characterized by , that at least one receiving opening (7) with a predetermined cross-section is formed in the channel-ward extension of the receiving opening (4) of the at least one service channel (4), in which a plug (8) with a shape filling the predetermined cross-section of the receiving opening (7) is fluid-tightly connected to the receiving opening (7). [2] Heat exchange module (1) according to claim 1, wherein the plug (8) comprises the fluid connection (5). [3] Heat exchange module (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the outer wall (9) of a channel turn (10) is formed by the plug (8). [4] Heat exchange module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plug (8) is fluid-tightly connected to the receiving opening (7) by means of at least one of the following material joining methods: - Friction stir welding; - Laser welding; - Gas metal arc welding; and / or - Stick. [5] Heat exchange module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the module housing (3) comprises a receiving chamber (11) adjacent to the operating medium channel (4) for an energy storage module (2). [6] Heat exchange module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the module housing (3) is closed off on the outside by the plug (8) flush with the receiving opening (7) of the operating medium channel (4) or the plug (8) is recessed inwards in the receiving opening (7). [7] Manufacturing method for a heat exchange module (1) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least the following steps: a. Providing the module housing (3) and at least one plug (8); b. Inserting at least one plug (8) into the corresponding receiving opening (7); and c. fluid-tight connection of the plug (8) to the receiving opening (7). [8] Manufacturing method according to claim 7, wherein in step d. the fluid connection (5) according to claim 2 is formed: - before step b., or - after step c. [9] Manufacturing method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, prior to step b. in step e., a channel turn (10) is prepared in the module housing (3) by shortening a channel separating web (12) on the inside of the channel turn (10) in the insertion direction (13) of the corresponding plug (8). [10] Manufacturing method according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein before step b. in step f. the receiving opening (7) is adapted to the plug (8).

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