Side structural element and arrangement of a side structural element on an electrical energy storage device of a motor vehicle

Abstract

Side structure element (10) for arrangement on an electrical energy storage device (12) of a motor vehicle, comprising a double-walled crash structure (15) which has a first wall (16) oriented towards the electrical energy storage device (12) and which can be arranged on a base element (14) of the electrical energy storage device (12), and a second wall (18) facing away from the base element (14), and which has a ventilation channel (20) arranged between the first wall (14) and the second wall (18) for discharging exhaust gases from the electrical energy storage device (12), wherein at least one ventilation opening (22a) is arranged on the second wall (18) and along the ventilation channel (20), characterized in that respective connecting elements for the targeted discharge of exhaust gases or toxic gases to the outside into an environment of the motor vehicle are connected to the ventilation opening (22a), wherein the connecting elements are designed toto provide a conduit from the vent opening (22a) into the environment of the motor vehicle, in particular from the side structural element (10) to an outlet opening on the body or on an underbody of the motor vehicle.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a side structural element for arrangement on an electrical energy storage device of a motor vehicle according to claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to an arrangement of a side structural element on an electrical energy storage device of a motor vehicle.

[0002] In the event of a thermal event, the hot exhaust gases from a cell of an electrical energy storage system are vented directly from the cell, thus preventing the current-carrying components, such as the cell terminals and high-voltage connections, from coming into contact with the hot gas. This eliminates the need for these components to be equipped with complex heat protection measures.

[0003] The object of the invention is to provide a safety measure for an electrical energy storage device that makes it possible to provide an efficient degassing option despite existing crash structures.

[0004] This problem is solved by a side structural element with the features of claim 1 and by an arrangement. Advantageous embodiments of the side structural element according to the invention are to be regarded as advantageous embodiments of the arrangement according to the invention, wherein the means of the side structural element are used to carry out the process steps. Furthermore, advantageous developments of the invention are described by the dependent claims, the following description, and the figures.

[0005] A first aspect of the invention relates to a side structure element for arrangement on an electrical energy storage device of a motor vehicle, in particular an electrically operated passenger vehicle, with a double-walled crash structure comprising a first wall oriented towards the electrical energy storage device and which can be arranged or attached to a basic element of the electrical energy storage device, and a second wall facing away from the basic element.

[0006] For example, the first wall of the side structure element can be designed to fit snugly against a similarly flat side of the base element of the electrical energy storage system. This arrangement enables a stable, precise connection between the two components. Furthermore, the first wall has a corresponding geometry that is tailored to the shape and structure of the base element to ensure a precise fit. The connection between the first wall of the side structure element and the base element can also be made either by bonding or using fasteners. In particular, a detachable arrangement can be provided to facilitate later modifications or assembly. This flexible fastening option allows for easy disassembly and adjustment should the electrical energy storage system require maintenance or modification / adjustment.

[0007] A vent channel for the removal of exhaust gases from the electrical energy storage system is located between the first and second walls. In the event of a thermal event, this vent channel allows for the controlled removal of the hot exhaust gases generated by the system. This prevents the exhaust gases from escaping uncontrollably and damaging surrounding components or other cells of the electrical energy storage system, or from entering the vehicle's interior. The vent channel ensures that the exhaust gases are safely vented, thereby reducing the risk of consequential damage and maintaining the thermal stability of the entire electrical energy storage system. The exhaust gases are, for example, routed through the vent channel into a safe environment within the vehicle. A further duct system or additional pipes can be used to specifically direct the hot exhaust gases away from the electrical energy storage system.This arrangement ensures that exhaust gases can safely escape outside the vehicle at a designated point, without endangering critical vehicle components or occupants. This controlled venting enhances the safety of the electrical energy storage system. Furthermore, the crash structure features a double-walled design with first and second walls, further reinforcing its protective function. The double-walled construction thus consists of an outer (second wall) and an inner wall (first wall), both of which contribute to absorbing and distributing impact energy. While the outer wall (first wall) absorbs the initial impact in a collision, the inner wall (second wall) provides additional protection by shielding the electrical energy storage system from the impact forces. The ventilation duct is integrated between the two walls.Through this combination of mechanical protection and exhaust gas drainage, the double-walled crash structure offers a practical and, in particular, robust safety solution for the electrical energy storage device.

[0008] In other words, the first and second walls ensure that the double-walled crash structure provides both mechanical protection for the electrical energy storage device and the safe venting of exhaust gases. This is made possible, in particular, by the integration of the venting channel according to the invention. The crash structure protects the electrical energy storage device in collisions and simultaneously ensures, or rather enables, the controlled venting of exhaust gases generated by thermal events. Thus, the structural design of the crash structure is used to provide venting capabilities, thereby not only offering protection against accidental collisions and thus an alternative absorption option, but also, in particular, thermal protection against losses due to thermal events within the electrical energy storage device.

[0009] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first wall of the side structure element has a recess along the vent channel. This recess increases the space for targeted gas venting and enables effective degassing of the electrical energy storage device. The exhaust gases can be routed directly through the base element to the side structure element. This arrangement allows the hot exhaust gases to be vented in a controlled manner along the vent channel into a safe environment within the vehicle, without entering the vehicle's interior or affecting surrounding components. An advantageous technical feature of this embodiment is the adaptation of the recess's geometry to the vent channel, which facilitates improved flow of the hot exhaust gases. The preferably elongated and / or rectangular shape of the recess allows, for example, for...The exhaust gases are extracted from the electrical energy storage system more quickly and efficiently, and in particular without detours. Furthermore, the design of the recess allows for targeted distribution of the exhaust gases, ensuring that they escape either to the left or right along the vehicle's length, depending on the arrangement of the side structure elements. The flush mounting of the side structure element to the base element of the electrical energy storage system significantly facilitates the transfer of exhaust gases into the ventilation duct. The flat design of the two components creates a uniform, tight seal that directs the gas outflow precisely into the ventilation duct. This construction prevents exhaust gases from escaping at unintended points and ensures that they are transferred directly into the ventilation duct.

[0010] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first wall and the second wall are connected to each other to enclose the ventilation duct. This means that connecting the respective walls to enclose the ventilation duct provides a particularly stable and reliable structure that is not complex or composed of multiple components, but rather is formed by joining the respective ends of the side walls. It is provided that the respective ends of the respective walls are connected to each other in the vertical direction of the vehicle. In particular, these walls are, for example, joined in one piece, or the entire side structure element is formed in one piece. The one-piece manufacturing or construction of the side structure element offers several advantages; for example, it improves structural stability and crash safety, as no weak points arise from connections.A uniform material, particularly one that is both mechanically robust and heat-resistant, can be used to protect the electrical energy storage device and dissipate thermal stresses. The front, first wall can also feature special designs such as reinforcing ribs or energy-absorbing structures, which can be directly integrated into the one-piece construction of both walls using the aforementioned manufacturing processes. This further enhances, improves, and increases the safety of the crash structure. Moreover, the one-piece construction simplifies the manufacturing process, as complex connecting elements are eliminated and cost-effective methods such as injection molding can be used.

[0011] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first wall and the second wall are connected by means of at least one stiffening rib. The stiffening rib increases the strength of the side structure element, thereby improving crash safety through the crash structure and, in particular, also increasing the stability of the ventilation channels. The stiffening rib thus extends continuously between the walls and can be in various configurations. Several stiffening ribs can be provided, which, depending on the requirements, are arranged in different positions in order to selectively reinforce specific areas of the crash structure. Furthermore, these stiffening ribs can be manufactured integrally with the walls, thereby providing, for example, high strength and stability. Finally, the stiffening ribs can, for example,They also have different thicknesses to meet the specific requirements of the crash structure. Thicker ribs can be used in particularly stressed areas to allow for greater energy absorption, while thinner ribs can be used in less stressed areas to save weight while maintaining stability.

[0012] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the ventilation channel is limited by the stiffening rib. This limitation ensures that the channel remains clearly defined and protected. In particular, the stiffening rib is arranged, for example, in a central region of the respective side walls, whereby the ventilation channel is located, especially in the vertical direction of the vehicle, in the upper region of the respective walls. In other words, the limitation by the stiffening rib provides a clear separation between the ventilation channel and the other areas of the side structural element. This separation prevents other spaces and / or components of the motor vehicle from being affected and / or damaged by the harmful exhaust gases.Even in the event of deformation of the side structure, such as during an impact, the ventilation channel remains functional thanks to the support of the stiffening rib, which is designed to provide reinforcement. Additionally, the stiffening rib can be designed to influence the cross-section of the ventilation channel, particularly depending on the required flow rate of the exhaust gases to be discharged. This means that a thicker stiffening rib can provide additional stability, while a thinner stiffening rib allows more space for gas flow.

[0013] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one vent opening is arranged on the second side wall and along the vent channel. This vent opening allows for the controlled discharge of exhaust gases, hot exhaust gases, or toxic gases to the outside, particularly into the vicinity of the vehicle, thereby increasing safety inside the vehicle. For example, it is also possible to connect various connecting elements to the vent opening. This enables controlled routing from the vent opening to the vehicle's surroundings, especially from the side structural element to an outlet opening, for example, on the vehicle body or underbody. A duct system can, for instance, be connected to the vent opening of the side structural element to safely discharge the exhaust gases.Sealing elements can be used to create a gas-tight connection. Hoses or rigid pipes can be connected to the vent and routed along the vehicle structure to direct the exhaust gases to an outlet on the body or underbody of the vehicle.

[0014] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first wall and the second wall define a second channel that is distinct from the ventilation channel. This second channel is arranged vertically below the ventilation channel and provides an improvement to the crash structure. This means that the ventilation channel is located above the first, and the second channel is located below it. The second channel, for example, has a larger cross-section than the first ventilation channel and thus represents an improved crash structure. Furthermore, it is also possible to arrange a plurality of additional channels on the side structure element. These channels can, for example, be positioned adjacent to each other in the transverse direction of the vehicle or side by side to further improve the crash structure. For example,The arrangement of two stiffening ribs can also provide an additional channel, for example, a temperature control channel designed for temperature regulation, and in particular cooling, of the environment and thus of the electrical energy storage device. Through the targeted placement of the stiffening ribs, this temperature control channel could also be integrated into the side structural element, thus enabling both stability and thermal control of the energy storage device.

[0015] In a further advanced embodiment of the invention, the second channel is arranged vertically below the ventilation channel. Since hot exhaust gases naturally rise, this arrangement is particularly advantageous because the ventilation channel is positioned in the upper region to improve the exhaust gas flow to the outside. The smaller channels and structures below can be used specifically to improve the crash structure. Particularly in the area of ​​the side sill, these lower channels offer additional possibilities for absorbing more impact energy and thus increasing safety in a side impact. The reinforced structure in this area ensures optimal energy absorption and therefore enhances the protective effect.

[0016] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one through-opening is provided on the second wall and along the second channel. This through-opening enables additional functionality, particularly during production / manufacturing and / or assembly. These through-openings can be used to move or securely hold the side structure element, for example, with the aid of gripping arms or special fastening devices. This facilitates the precise positioning of the side structure element relative to the base element of the electrical energy storage system or with respect to its installation in the vehicle. The use of these through-openings allows for more efficient assembly processes, as the side structure element can be positioned precisely, easily, and stably, which also simplifies its integration into automated production processes.Furthermore, these openings can be used for additional functions such as inspections or adjustments after installation.

[0017] In a further advanced embodiment of the invention, the ventilation channel and the second channel have different cross-sections. This different dimensioning allows for targeted adaptation to the respective functional requirements, with the ventilation channel being designed for exhaust gas discharge, while the second channel provides an improved crash structure. The different cross-sectional designs allow specific areas of the side structure element to be adapted with regard to energy absorption. The arrangement between the side sill and the electrical energy storage device can be designed such that, for example, several walls are integrated in the lower region of the side structure element in the vertical direction of the vehicle. These additional walls contribute to increasing structural strength and better distributing impact energy, particularly in a side impact.The more robust crash structure in this lower area, near the side sill, absorbs greater amounts of energy and protects the electrical energy storage system more effectively. Furthermore, this design of the crash structure allows for the targeted integration of different materials or reinforced zones into the lower area to further enhance the protective effect.

[0018] Another aspect of the invention relates to the arrangement of a side structural element on an electrical energy storage device of a motor vehicle and a vehicle body, wherein the side structural element has a double-walled crash structure. This crash structure is formed or manufactured from a first wall oriented towards the electrical energy storage device and attachable to a base element of the electrical energy storage device, and a second wall facing away from the base element. Between the first and the second wall is a ventilation channel, which is provided for the discharge of exhaust gases from the electrical energy storage device and is arranged between the vehicle body and the base element of the electrical energy storage device.This arrangement enables improved protection of the electrical energy storage device and also supports the removal of exhaust gases, thus protecting the electrical energy storage device not only in the event of collisions, especially side collisions, but also protecting the interior from the ingress of toxic exhaust gases from the degassing of the electrical energy storage device.

[0019] Finally, in a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the ventilation duct extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. This orientation enables safe and reliable gas venting, for example, transversely to the outside or vertically downwards, thereby shortening the venting paths to the vehicle's surroundings. This venting allows the exhaust gases to be carried away more quickly, which is particularly important in the event of a side impact. The shorter venting paths contribute to better protecting the vehicle's interior and reducing the risk of adverse effects from exhaust gases in the event of an accident and / or a thermal event.

[0020] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment and from the drawings. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as those mentioned below in the figure description and / or shown in the figure(s) alone, can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0021] This shows: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a side structural element with a ventilation channel, which is intended as a drain for exhaust gases from an electrical energy storage device and as a crash structure; Fig. 2 another perspective view of the side structure element looking towards a first wall which has an elongated recess to allow improved ventilation or degassing of the electrical energy storage; Fig. 3 a cross-section of a double-walled crash structure of the side structural element; Fig. 4 a perspective view of the side structure element, arranged on an electrical energy storage device, with a positioning of the respective cells of the electrical energy storage device relative to the side structure element; Fig. 5 a top view of an arrangement of modules of the electrical energy storage system along a motor vehicle with respective side structural elements; and Fig. 6 Another top view of a module with side structural elements arranged on both sides to illustrate further degassing possibilities.

[0022] In the figures, identical and functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0023] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a side structure element 10 with an integrated ventilation duct 20. The side structure element 10, for arrangement on an electrical energy storage device 12 of a motor vehicle, in particular an electrically powered passenger vehicle, comprises a double-walled crash structure 15, which has a first wall 16 oriented towards the electrical energy storage device 12 and which can be arranged or attached to a base element 14 of the electrical energy storage device 12, and a second wall 18 facing away from the base element 14. A ventilation duct 20 for the discharge of exhaust gases from the electrical energy storage device 12 is arranged between the first wall 16 and the second wall 18.

[0024] This shows Fig. 1 The side structural element in a functional arrangement, wherein the first wall 16 is oriented towards the electrical energy storage device 12 and is designed for a particularly stable connection with the base element 14 of the electrical energy storage device 12. Furthermore, it also forms part of the double-walled crash structure 15, which is primarily intended for mechanical protection. The second wall 18 faces away from the base element 14 and thus also supports the mechanical stability of the crash structure 15, while it encloses the ventilation duct 20 together with the first wall 16.

[0025] The ventilation duct 20, which is thus arranged between the first wall 16 and the second wall 18, is designed for the controlled discharge of exhaust gases from the electrical energy storage unit 12, which are generated in the event of a thermal event within the electrical energy storage unit 12. This ensures the controlled dissipation of heat and reduces the risk of damage to live components. Furthermore, it prevents the exhaust gases, including potentially toxic ones, from entering the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0026] The vent opening 20a along the vent duct 20 thus enables the direct discharge of exhaust gases from the electrical energy storage unit 12, thereby not only increasing safety but also reducing the need for additional protective measures. In other words, this provides a simplified exhaust gas solution that requires few components or a complex system, and thus offers a cost-effective alternative for exhaust gas discharge.

[0027] An additional advantage is provided by a second channel 24, which extends in the vehicle's vertical direction Z below the ventilation channel 20 in the vehicle's longitudinal direction X. This channel 24 can be used for other functions such as cooling or additional ventilation mechanisms, but is primarily intended as a crash structure 15, being particularly large relative to the cross-section of the ventilation channel 20 and thus able to absorb more energy in a collision. The entire arrangement thereby improves the structural design of the electrical energy storage device 12 and enables the side walls 16, 18 to serve a dual purpose: improving crash safety and thermal control.

[0028] Finally, in Fig. Figure 1 shows not only the second channel 24, but also the respective elongated holes 24a as through-openings that can be used during the production of the side structure element 10 and during the assembly of the side structure element 10 on the base element 14 of the electrical energy storage device 12. It is possible, for example, for gripping arms or handle elements to engage in the elongated holes 24 or through-openings 24a to hold and / or carry the side structure element 10.

[0029] Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the side structure element 10 in a functional arrangement with the electrical energy storage device 12. The first wall 16 is oriented towards the energy storage device 12 and, together with the second wall 18, forms the double crash structure 15, which is designed for both mechanical stability and protection of the electrical energy storage device 12. The elongated recess 16a in the first wall 16, which extends along the ventilation duct 20, is shown in particular. This recess 16a provides sufficient space for the discharge of the hot exhaust gases from the electrical energy storage device 12, which are generated in the event of a thermal event. The particularly large dimensions of the recess 16a enable a particularly generous and, in particular, efficient ventilation, as the exhaust gases can be directed directly and quickly into the ventilation duct 20.The shape and size of the recess 16a is in particular elongated, especially rectangular, and thus extends along the ventilation duct 20.

[0030] The arrangement of the components, including the recess 16a and the ventilation duct 20, thus enables a particularly reliable exhaust gas drainage and leads to an increase in the safety of the electrical energy storage device 12, while at the same time providing structural stability to the side structure element 10 through the crash structure 15.

[0031] Fig. Figure 3 shows a cross-section of the side structural element 10 between the electrical energy storage device 12 and the vehicle body 11, in particular a side support 11a. It features the double-walled crash structure 15, comprising the first wall 16 facing the energy storage device 12 and the second wall 18 oriented towards the vehicle body 11. This crash structure 15 is provided here for mechanical stability and for protection in the event of an impact or collision.

[0032] The stiffening rib 22 is also of great importance for the crash structure 15, as it increases the mechanical stiffness and simultaneously separates the ventilation channel 20 from the second channel 24. This separation of the channels 20 and 24 makes it possible to use the ventilation channel 20 specifically for the discharge of hot exhaust gases, while the second channel 24 can be used for other purposes, such as for the crash structure 15. The cross-sectional geometry of the side structural element 20 is designed to differ at the respective channels 20 and 24. While the cross-section of the ventilation channel 20 is not as bulbous relative to the cross-section of the second channel 24, the cross-section of the second channel 24 is designed to absorb a particularly large amount of energy.

[0033] Finally, it is also possible to arrange a large number of side walls or walls in the transverse direction of the vehicle next to each other to further reinforce the crash structure 15. This arrangement could be used to improve the control of the impact energy and further enhance the protective function of the side structure element 10 for the protection of the electrical energy storage device 12.

[0034] Fig. Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the side structural element 10, illustrating the individual cells 13 and their venting openings 13a and degassing openings, respectively. The first wall 16 is oriented towards the electrical energy storage unit 12 to provide structural support. The second wall 18, on the other hand, forms the outer boundary and is oriented towards the vehicle structure, incorporating the crash structure 15, or partially forming it, particularly with the first wall 16.

[0035] The ventilation channel 20, which runs between the first wall 16 and the second wall 18, is designed to discharge the hot exhaust gases that escape through the venting openings 13a of the respective cells 13. These exhaust gases are directed outwards through the venting openings 13a, passing through the recess 16a in the first wall 16 into the ventilation channel 20 and thus being discharged into the vehicle's surroundings. This view illustrates the gas discharge and the structure of the side structural element, with the walls 16 and 18, the stiffening rib 22, and the spatial arrangement of the respective venting openings 13a working together to facilitate gas discharge and provide an exhaust gas path.

[0036] Fig. Figure 5 shows an arrangement of four modules 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d of the electrical energy storage system, arranged side by side and one behind the other. Modules 26a and 26c are aligned one behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and each includes a side structural element 10 with a corresponding ventilation channel 20, both oriented to the left in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, thus enabling degassing to the left side of the vehicle. Similarly, modules 26b and 26d are oriented to the right in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and also include corresponding side structural elements 10 with corresponding ventilation channels 20, enabling degassing to the outside right of the vehicle. This arrangement demonstrates a one-sided positioning of the respective ventilation channels on the respective modules 26a to 26d to allow both lateral degassing and protection in the event of collisions or side impacts.

[0037] Fig. 6 shows, in contrast to Fig. 5 a single module 26e of the electrical energy storage device 12, which is formed on both sides with respective structural elements 10 and the corresponding ventilation channels 20. This enables degassing on both sides and thus provides a discharge of the respective exhaust gases to the left and / or right in the event of a thermal event in the longitudinal direction x of the vehicle, as well as protection in the event of side collisions.

[0038] In summary, the invention proposes side plates or side structural elements for battery cells with integrated venting channel and crash profile. Reference symbol list 10 Page structure element 11 Vehicle body 11a Side sill 12 Electrical energy storage 13th cell 13a Ventingloch 14 Basic element 15 Crash structure 16 First wall 16a Recess 18 Second Wall 18a Vent opening 20 Ventilation duct 22 stiffening rib 24-channel 24a Passage opening Modules 26a-26e

Claims

[1] Side structure element (10) for arrangement on an electrical energy storage device (12) of a motor vehicle, with a double-walled crash structure (15) which has a first wall (16) oriented towards the electrical energy storage device (12) and which can be arranged on a base element (14) of the electrical energy storage device (12) and a second wall (18) facing away from the base element (14), and which has a ventilation channel (20) arranged between the first wall (14) and the second wall (18) for the discharge of exhaust gases from the electrical energy storage device (12). [2] Page structure element (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the first wall (16) has a recess (16a) along the ventilation duct (20). [3] Page structure element (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the first wall (14) and the second wall (18) are connected to each other to enclose the ventilation duct (20). [4] Page structure element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first wall (14) and the second wall (18) are connected by means of at least one stiffening rib (22). [5] Page structure element (10) according to claim 4, characterized by , that the vent channel (20) is limited by the stiffening rib (22). [6] Page structure element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one vent opening (20a) is arranged on the second wall (18) and along the vent duct (20). [7] Page structure element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first wall (14) and the second wall (18) still define a second channel (24) that is different from the ventilation channel (20). [8] Page structure element (10) according to claim 7, characterized by , that the second channel (24) is arranged in the upward direction of the vehicle (z) below the ventilation channel (20). [9] Page structure element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one passage opening (24a) is arranged on the second wall (18) and along the second channel (24). [10] Page structure element (10) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by , that the vent channel (20) and the second channel (24) have different cross-sections. [11] Arrangement of a side structure element (10) between an electrical energy storage device (12) of a motor vehicle and a vehicle body (13), wherein the side structure element (10) has a double-walled crash structure (15) which has a first wall (16) oriented towards the electrical energy storage device (12) and which can be attached to a base element (14) of the electrical energy storage device (12) and a second wall (18) facing away from the base element (14), and which has a ventilation channel (20) arranged between the first wall (14) and the second wall (18) for discharging exhaust gases from the electrical energy storage device (12), which is arranged between the vehicle body (13) and a base element (14) of the electrical energy storage device (12). [12] Arrangement according to claim 11, characterized by , that the ventilation duct (20) extends in the longitudinal direction (x) of the vehicle.

Images