Method for fixing a threaded bushing in a plastic component for a high-voltage battery

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for fixing a threaded bushing (10) in a plastic component (20) for a high-voltage battery (110) of an electrically powered vehicle (100), comprising the following steps: a) Providing a recess (30) for the threaded bushing (10) in the plastic component (20), b) Heating the threaded bushing (10) to a process temperature, c) Inserting the heated threaded bushing (10) into the recess (30) and d) Pressing in the threaded bushing (10) using a press (40) so that the threaded bushing (10) is pressed radially into the plastic component (20) and melts.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for fixing a socket, a high-voltage battery for a vehicle, and a vehicle.

[0002] Integrating metallic bushings into plastic parts, particularly in applications like high-voltage batteries, is technically challenging. The goal is to create a bolted connection that meets the required strength and durability standards, which is often impossible with pure plastic due to insufficient MNA2 values ​​(minimum tightening torque). One solution is to insert metallic bushings during the plastic manufacturing process. This allows for a very strong and tight connection that satisfies both mechanical and sealing requirements. However, this can present challenges such as contamination of the bolted surfaces, which must be addressed through appropriate post-processing methods or the use of protective mechanisms.

[0003] Document DE 10 2018 130 007 A1 describes a method for fixing a sleeve to a fiber composite component, which is particularly applicable in wind turbines. The invention comprises the controlled heating of the sleeve by means of a heat distribution element, whereby the sleeve is anchored precisely and firmly in the fiber composite material.

[0004] Disadvantages of the prior art: The prior art involves complex process steps. For example, in DE 10 2018 130 007 A1, the sleeve must be positively inserted into the fiber composite component before it can be heated. Consequently, the precise dimensions of the recess are crucial for the bond between the component and the sleeve, and a tight seal cannot be guaranteed.

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the disadvantages described above, at least partially.

[0006] In particular, the object of the invention is to provide a reliable method for fixing a threaded bushing in a plastic component, which is also automatable and therefore cost-effective.

[0007] The foregoing problem is solved by a method according to a first aspect of the present invention, by a high-voltage battery according to a second aspect of the present invention, and by a vehicle according to a third aspect of the present invention.

[0008] Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the method according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the battery according to the invention and / or in connection with the vehicle according to the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosure regarding the individual aspects of the invention always refers, or can refer, to each other.

[0009] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method for fixing a threaded bushing in a plastic component for a high-voltage battery of an electrically powered vehicle, comprising the following steps: a) Creating a recess for the bushing in the plastic component, b) Heating the threaded bushing to a process temperature, c) Inserting the heated threaded bushing into the recess and d) Pressing in the threaded bushing using a press, so that the threaded bushing is pressed radially into the plastic component and melts.

[0010] The procedural steps, processes, and procedures described here should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring their execution in the specific order discussed or presented, unless explicitly stated as a sequence. The procedural steps can occur, at least partially, simultaneously or sequentially, and the sequence is not limited to that defined by the numbering, allowing individual steps to be performed in different orders. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0011] First, a recess is machined into the plastic component. This recess can be a bore or a depression, depending on the specific application requirements and the size of the threaded bushing. The recess is preferably dimensioned to accommodate the bushing. Alternatively, the recess can be dimensioned to achieve a tight fit. Next, the threaded bushing is heated to a defined process temperature. This temperature is selected to melt or at least soften the plastic, at least in the area of ​​the recess. The bushing is then heated to a temperature high enough to deform the surrounding plastic material upon contact, thus creating a metallurgical bond. This can be achieved by induction or other heating methods that ensure uniform heating of the bushing.

[0012] The heated threaded bushing is inserted into the prepared recess. The heat from the bushing warms the surrounding plastic, at least partially, thus preparing it for press-fitting. According to the invention, the threaded bushing can be inserted in at least two different ways. In the first alternative, the heated threaded bushing is initially placed into the prepared recess of the plastic component without applying any significant force. The bushing is carefully positioned so that it fits precisely into the opening and remains stable in its position. Insertion is performed either manually or by an automatic feeding device, which ensures that the bushing is precisely aligned within the recess. Since little or no pressure is applied at this stage, no radial deformation of the bushing occurs.The heat from the bushing, however, already affects the surrounding plastic material, causing local softening or partial melting of the plastic at the contact surface. According to the second conceivable alternative, the heated threaded bushing is inserted into the recess of the plastic component with an initial, controlled pressure. This pressure is significantly lower than the final pressing force and primarily serves to fix the bushing in place without causing complete deformation of the material. As the bushing is inserted into the recess under this initial pressure, slight contact is established between the bushing and the plastic. The heat from the bushing causes partial softening of the plastic, but without significant radial deformation.

[0013] The threaded bushing is then pressed into the recess using a press. During this step, the bushing penetrates the plastic material radially, creating a metallurgical bond between the bushing and the plastic component. The pressing process deforms the bushing and / or the plastic surrounding the bushing, at least partially coming into contact with the outer structures of the bushing. After cooling, the plastic solidifies, firmly anchoring the bushing in the plastic part. This results in a tight and stable connection that meets the mechanical and sealing requirements of screw connections in high-voltage batteries. The top and bottom surfaces of the bushing remain clean for the screw connection, as the process prevents plastic from penetrating the areas relevant to the screw connection.This eliminates the need for subsequent cleaning or reworking of these surfaces.

[0014] Advantageously, the recess can be created using waterjet cutting and / or punching. This step ensures precise preparation of the plastic component and allows for an exact fit of the bushing. Waterjet cutting uses a high-pressure water jet to cut the hole in the plastic part. This water jet, optionally mixed with an abrasive such as garnet sand, cuts the material through mechanical abrasion and the force of the water jet.

[0015] The plastic component is advantageously fixed to an assembly table, and the water jet is directed onto the marked area through a precisely controlled nozzle. The cut is clean and highly precise, resulting in an exactly dimensioned recess. Waterjet cutting enables the production of very accurate and clean recesses without burr formation, which facilitates the subsequent assembly of the bushing. Unlike thermal cutting processes, waterjet cutting does not generate heat that could deform or weaken the plastic material.

[0016] Stamping uses a die that is forced through the plastic material with high force to create the cutout. This takes place in a stamping press, where the die is precisely aligned to the desired position. The plastic part is fixed in a die, and the die is forced through the material with a single, rapid stroke to create the cutout. Stamping is a very fast process and is particularly suitable for mass production because it can produce a large number of holes in a short time. For large production runs, stamping is a very economical method because the dies have a long service life and the process can be automated.

[0017] Within the scope of the invention, the threaded bushing can be heated by induction heating or resistance heating. These methods enable precise and controlled heating of the bushing, which is advantageous for the quality of the metallurgical bond. In induction heating, the threaded bushing is heated by electromagnetic induction. Preferably, an induction coil is placed around or near the bushing. Due to the electrical resistance of the metal, eddy currents generate heat, which heats the bushing evenly and quickly to the desired process temperature.

[0018] Induction heating is highly precise because the temperature can be exactly controlled by adjusting the current and frequency of the alternating current. This prevents the bushing from overheating and ensures optimal melting of the plastic in the recess area. The bushing reaches the desired temperature very quickly, accelerating the entire production process. Heating is uniform across the entire bushing, guaranteeing consistent connection quality. Because the heat is generated directly within the metal of the bushing, energy consumption is lower compared to other methods. The bushing temperature can be controlled very precisely, which is particularly advantageous for optimal plastic deformation and ensuring a strong, tight connection.

[0019] In resistance heating, the threaded bushing is heated by direct contact with an electric heating element. This heating element preferably consists of a material with high electrical resistance (e.g., a heating coil or a heating block). An electric current is passed through the heating element, which heats up due to its resistance. The bushing is then brought into direct contact with the heated element, thereby transferring the heat to the bushing. The bushing remains in contact with the heating element for a certain period of time to reach the desired process temperature. Temperature control is achieved by adjusting the current and the duration of contact between the bushing and the heating element.

[0020] Resistance heating is technically simple and can be carried out with relatively basic and inexpensive equipment. This method ensures constant and uniform heating of the bushing, especially in medium and large production volumes.

[0021] It can be advantageous to align the threaded bushing during and / or after insertion. The recess is preferably created in the plastic component by waterjet cutting or punching. This recess serves as a receptacle for the threaded bushing and is precisely matched to the bushing's size and shape. During insertion, the threaded bushing is aligned using guide elements or special fixtures. These fixtures can be part of the press that presses in the bushing or separate guides that hold the bushing in the correct position throughout the entire pressing-in process. A guide sleeve with the same geometry as the bushing can be used to ensure that the bushing is inserted into the plastic part precisely along the desired axis. The guide sleeve can be attached to the bushing during the pressing process to ensure precise vertical alignment.The precise alignment during insertion ensures that the bushing remains in exactly the correct position, which is crucial for the functionality and durability of the bolted connection. This accurate alignment prevents potential errors such as crooked or misaligned bushings, which could later lead to problems during assembly or operation. The bushing is pressed into the molten plastic material with controlled pressure while being held in position. This compacts the plastic around the bushing, which then hardens after pressing, creating a strong, metallurgical bond.

[0022] Alignment during and / or after insertion ensures that the bushing is positioned precisely, improving the quality of the bolted joint and the tightness of the connection. Accurate alignment minimizes errors, reducing the need for rework and increasing overall productivity.

[0023] It can also be advantageous for the press to be either hydraulic or pneumatic. A hydraulic press uses a fluid (preferably oil) to generate the force required for the pressing process. This press consists of a cylinder, a piston, and a pump. The pump forces the hydraulic oil into the cylinder, which pushes the piston downwards, thus exerting a smooth and controlled force on the bushing. The hydraulic press can generate very high pressures, making it ideal for applications requiring a strong force, such as pressing bushings into dense or high-strength plastics. Hydraulic presses are capable of generating very high forces with great precision, which is particularly important when working with thick or high-strength plastic parts.The piston's movement can be controlled very precisely, allowing for accurate control over the pressing process.

[0024] The hydraulic press can maintain a constant force throughout the entire stroke, resulting in a uniform compression of the bushing.

[0025] A pneumatic press uses compressed air to generate the force required for the insertion process. The press consists of a cylinder, a piston, and a compressor. The compressor supplies the compressed air that moves the piston and presses the bushing into the plastic part. Pneumatic presses are fast and flexible.

[0026] It is also conceivable that, after the bushing has been fully pressed in, the press maintains pressure on the threaded bushing until the plastic component in the recess area cools. After the bushing is fully pressed in, the press remains in position and applies constant pressure to the bushing. This pressure is maintained until the plastic material in the recess area has completely cooled and solidified. While pressure is applied to the bushing, the plastic in the recess area begins to cool. The cooling process can be accelerated by passive cooling (ambient air) or by active cooling methods (e.g., air cooling, coolant). Optionally, the press can generate slight vibrations during cooling to remove air bubbles and allow the plastic to better penetrate all the spaces within the bushing. This improves the tightness and strength of the connection.

[0027] Maintaining pressure during cooling prevents the plastic from contracting or shrinking uncontrollably, which could lead to stresses or air pockets. The continuous pressure keeps the bushing in the desired position and shape while the plastic solidifies. This ensures that the bushing remains firmly and precisely anchored in the component. The uniform pressure also ensures that the plastic penetrates all surface structures of the bushing during cooling, maximizing the metallurgical bond and increasing mechanical strength. Once the plastic has cooled and solidified sufficiently, the pressure from the press is preferably reduced slowly and eventually released completely. The press is then lifted, and the fixed bushing is ready for subsequent processing steps.

[0028] It can be advantageous to actively cool the threaded bushing and / or the plastic component in the recess area after press-fitting. After press-fitting, the threaded bushing can be actively cooled to quickly lower its temperature and accelerate the cooling process of the surrounding plastic. Compressed air can be directed onto the bushing through nozzles to quickly dissipate excess heat. The airflow can be generated by nozzles on the press or by a separate cooling unit. Alternatively, a liquid coolant can be sprayed onto the bushing or supplied through cooling channels in the press. This is particularly effective at high temperatures and ensures a rapid temperature reduction. Cooling plates: If the bushing has a flat contact area, cooled plates or heat sinks can be placed directly onto the bushing to maximize heat transfer and accelerate cooling.

[0029] In addition to or as an alternative to cooling the bushing, the plastic in the recess area can also be actively cooled. Active cooling significantly reduces cooling time, which accelerates the entire production process and increases efficiency. Rapid cooling minimizes the risk of shrinkage, deformation, or internal stresses in the plastic, resulting in a more precise and stable connection. Because the cooling time is shortened, workpieces can be removed more quickly and the next work step initiated, thus increasing productivity in series production.

[0030] Advantageously, the plastic component can be positioned on an assembly table, at least during the pressing-in process. The assembly table is beneficial because it serves as a stable base and provides the necessary holding force for the pressing operation. This stabilization is advantageous in ensuring precise and uniform force transmission during the pressing-in of the bushing and in preventing deformation or damage to the component.

[0031] The plastic component is placed on an assembly table throughout the entire pressing process. This table is robustly constructed and ensures stable fixation of the component. The assembly table serves as a crucial counterforce to the pressing process. While the press exerts force on the bushing, the plastic component is held in position by the assembly table. This prevents the component from moving or deforming under the force. The component is securely fixed to the assembly table using clamping devices or fixtures. These fixtures can be individually adapted to the component geometry and material to ensure that the component remains completely immobilized during the pressing process. The assembly table can be equipped with adjustable support structures that provide additional support for the component and distribute the pressure evenly.These structures can be adjustable to accommodate different components and optimize the holding force according to requirements.

[0032] The assembly table provides a stable base, enabling precise application of force by the press. This is crucial to ensure that the bushing is pressed accurately into the plastic component. By distributing the clamping force evenly, the assembly table prevents the plastic component from deforming or being damaged during the pressing process. This is particularly important for maintaining the dimensional accuracy and integrity of the component. The secure fixation of the component on the assembly table ensures that the entire pressing force of the press is effectively transferred to the bushing and the surrounding plastic material, maximizing the quality of the bond.

[0033] The press applies downward pressure to the threaded bushing while the plastic component is held securely on the assembly table. The assembly table absorbs the holding force and prevents any movement of the component. It ensures that the press can press the bushing evenly into the molten or softened plastic, creating a stable and precise connection. After the bushing is pressed in, the press pressure is maintained, while the assembly table continues to provide a stable base. This combination ensures that the bushing remains in the correct position until the plastic has completely cooled and solidified. The assembly table can also be equipped with integrated cooling channels to assist in cooling the component.

[0034] The described method for fixing a threaded bushing in a plastic component makes it possible to overcome the challenges associated with creating a stable and durable screw connection in plastic parts. Particularly in applications subject to high mechanical loads, a screw connection based solely on the plastic material is not sufficiently resilient due to the decreasing MNA2 values ​​(minimum tightening torque with repeated tightening). Therefore, the integration of metallic bushings into the plastic material is necessary.

[0035] Integrating a metallic bushing into the plastic material results in significantly higher bolted joint strength. The metallic bushing absorbs the forces generated during tightening and operation of the bolted joint and transfers them to the plastic component. This prevents joint failure, which could occur with a purely plastic bolted joint. The MNA2 values, which describe the minimum tightening torque for repeated tightening, remain stable because the metallic bushing distributes the forces more effectively and minimizes the risk of pull-out or deformation of the plastic. This is crucial for applications where bolted joints need to be loosened and tightened repeatedly. The metallurgical bond between the heated bushing and the plastic material ensures that the bushing remains firmly and permanently anchored.This increases the durability of the screw connection and prevents it from loosening or deteriorating over time. The process ensures that the bushing is precisely aligned and inserted into the plastic component without any offset. This is particularly important for applications requiring a precise fit and high repeatability. The ability to actively cool the bushing and the plastic material after insertion reduces thermal stresses and ensures that the connection remains stable even under temperature fluctuations. This is especially relevant in environments with extreme temperature cycles, such as those found in vehicles. These are the key advantages of the invention.

[0036] According to a second aspect, the present invention further relates to a high-voltage battery for an electrically powered vehicle, wherein the high-voltage battery comprises at least one plastic component in which at least one bushing is fixed by means of a method according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0037] This results in the same advantages with regard to a battery according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a method according to the invention.

[0038] A high-voltage battery for an electric vehicle is a key component that stores electrical energy and provides it for propulsion. This battery consists of several complex assemblies that together enable the safe and efficient storage and release of electrical energy. The high-voltage battery comprises numerous individual battery cells connected in series and / or parallel to achieve the required voltage and capacity. These cells can be made of various chemical systems, such as lithium-ion technology, which is commonly used in electric vehicles. The battery cells are integrated into modules, with each module containing a specific number of cells. These modules are mechanically and electrically connected and housed within a casing.

[0039] The high-voltage battery housing comprises metal and / or plastic and provides structural stability as well as protection against external influences. It contains the modules and other components, such as the battery management system (BMS), cooling systems, and electrical connections. Various plastic components are located within and / or attached to the battery housing, serving as structural elements, supports, or insulators. These plastic components can be made of high-strength, heat- and chemical-resistant plastics such as polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), or polypropylene (PP), depending on the specific application requirements. A threaded bushing is fixed in at least one of these plastic components using the previously described method. This bushing is inserted into a precisely prepared recess in the plastic component, preferably produced by waterjet cutting or stamping.The bushing is heated, inserted into the recess, and pressed in under pressure, with the assembly table advantageously serving as a stable base and providing retaining force. After pressing, the bushing is preferably actively cooled to optimize the bond. The fixed threaded bushing serves as a mounting point for other components of the high-voltage battery, such as module terminals, covers, brackets, or electrical connections. The stable and precise anchoring of the bushing in the plastic component enables a secure and reliable screw connection that withstands even high mechanical loads and thermal expansion.

[0040] The threaded bushing integrated into the plastic component enables reliable screw connection to other structural or functional components of the battery. This could include, for example, mounting the battery cover, attaching cooling plates, or anchoring electrical connections.

[0041] The precise alignment and stable fixing of the bushing ensure that the screw connections do not loosen and retain their function even under vibration, shock, or thermal stress. The plastic component containing the threaded bushing is designed to efficiently absorb the loads generated by the screw connections and transfer them into the battery structure. The bonded connection between the bushing and the plastic ensures that the forces are distributed evenly, thus increasing the mechanical integrity of the entire system.

[0042] According to a third aspect, the present invention further relates to a vehicle with at least one high-voltage battery according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0043] This results in the same advantages with regard to a vehicle according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a high-voltage battery according to the invention.

[0044] The vehicle can be, for example, an electric vehicle (EV), powered exclusively by electricity, or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), which has both an electric drive and a combustion engine. In both cases, the high-voltage battery is the central energy source for the electric drive. The high-voltage battery is preferably located in the vehicle's underbody, which lowers the vehicle's center of gravity and improves driving stability. This positioning makes efficient use of the available space and contributes to the vehicle's aerodynamic design. The fixed threaded bushings ensure secure and permanent mounting of all essential components, thus contributing to the vehicle's structural integrity and operational reliability.

[0045] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which a single embodiment of the invention is described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can each be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. Fig. 1 schematically the inventive process step of insertion, Fig. 2 schematically the inventive process step of pressing in, Fig. 3 schematically the pressed-in threaded bushing according to the inventive process steps in section and in top view and Fig. 4 a vehicle according to the invention with a high-voltage battery according to the invention.

[0046] The figures use identical reference numerals for the same technical features, even for different embodiments.

[0047] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of how the threaded bushing 10 is inserted into the plastic component 20. The plastic component 20 is a component of a high-voltage battery for an electrically powered vehicle. During the process, the plastic component 20 rests, at least partially, on an assembly table 50. The plastic component 20 has a recess 30, which is a continuous recess 30, e.g., a bore, in the plastic component 20. Furthermore, it can be seen that there is a clearance or gap 21 between the threaded bushing 10 and the plastic component 20.

[0048] According to the invention, a recess 30 is first formed in the plastic component 20. Subsequently or simultaneously, the threaded bushing 10 is heated to a defined process temperature. This temperature is selected such that it melts or at least softens the plastic in the area of ​​the recess 30. Due to the heat of the threaded bushing 10, the plastic in the immediate vicinity begins to melt or deform, which optimizes the press-fitting process. The recess 30 in the plastic component 20 was previously manufactured with precision, either by waterjet cutting or punching. The recess 30 is therefore clean and free of burrs or contaminants that could impair the insertion process.

[0049] The threaded bushing 10 is heated to a specific temperature by induction or resistance heating. This temperature is selected to be high enough to melt or at least soften the plastic in the area of ​​the recess 30. Heating is preferably uniform across the entire threaded bushing 10 to ensure consistent heat distribution. The heated threaded bushing 10 is preferably transported to the recess 30 in the plastic component 20 immediately after heating. This is done either manually or automatically, depending on the production process. To ensure precise placement, the threaded bushing 10 can be positioned by guide elements, such as a guide sleeve or pins. These guide elements ensure that the threaded bushing 10 is precisely aligned before it is inserted into the recess 30. The threaded bushing 10 is then carefully inserted into the recess 30.Since the threaded bushing 10 is heated, the plastic in the immediate vicinity of the bushing begins to melt or at least soften.

[0050] In Fig. Figure 2 shows the press-fitting step. A press 40 is shown schematically. Once the threaded bushing 10 is fully inserted into the recess 30, it is pressed into its final position by the press 40. The press 40 exerts uniform pressure on the threaded bushing 10 to ensure that it is pressed into the correct position in the recess 30. The threaded bushing 10 remains fixed under pressure in the recess 30 while the plastic cools and solidifies. This continuous pressure prevents the threaded bushing 10 from shifting or loosening during the cooling process. As it cools, the plastic around the threaded bushing 10 hardens, ensuring a permanent anchor.

[0051] During the pressing process, particularly when using a hydraulic or pneumatic press 40, the threaded bushing 10 is inserted into the plastic component 20 in such a way that a strong and permanent connection is created between the outer surface of the bushing and the plastic material. This process ensures that the bushing is firmly and stably anchored in the plastic, thus guaranteeing the necessary mechanical strength and stability of the screw connection. For the pressing process, the plastic component 20, in which the recess 30 for the threaded bushing 10 is provided, is fixed to a stable mounting table 50. This mounting table 50 acts as a counterforce and ensures that the threaded bushing 10 and the plastic component 20 remain firmly in place throughout the entire pressing process. The hydraulic or pneumatic press 40 is activated to press the threaded bushing 10 into the recess 30.The press 40 exerts a precisely controlled force on the threaded bushing 10, acting in the direction of the recess 30. As the press 40 presses the threaded bushing 10 into the plastic component 20, the threaded bushing 10 is pressed radially against the walls of the recess 30. The pressure of the press ensures that the bushing is pressed not only axially (from top to bottom) but also radially (laterally) into the surrounding plastic material. This radial pressure presses the outer surface of the heated threaded bushing 10 against the plastic material. The heat of the threaded bushing 10 causes the plastic to melt at the contact points or at least soften sufficiently to conform to the surface of the threaded bushing 10.

[0052] While the press 40 continues to exert pressure, the molten or softened plastic fuses with the bushing surface. This fusion creates a metallurgical bond, in which the plastic preferably penetrates the structure of the threaded bushing 10 and forms a strong mechanical bond. The radially applied force of the press 40 ensures that the entire circumference of the threaded bushing 10 is uniformly surrounded by plastic and that no air inclusions or cavities remain that could impair the strength of the connection. Preferably, the assembly table 50 is part of the press 40. The hydraulic cylinder is the drive element of the press 40. It consists of a piston that is moved by hydraulic pressure. The cylinder converts the pressure of the hydraulic oil into a linear force that is transmitted to the ram 41.The hydraulic cylinder is mounted above the working area and guides the punch 41 downwards in a vertical movement to press the threaded bushing 10 into the plastic component 20. The punch head 42 of the press is advantageously adapted to the geometry of the threaded bushing. For example, it has a shape that corresponds, at least geometrically, to the contour of the bushing. This can be a cylindrical, conical, or even more complex shape, depending on the specific bushing geometry.

[0053] The assembly table 50 is a fixed, aligned platform onto which the plastic component 20 is fixed during the pressing process. It is typically made of hardened steel or another robust material that can withstand the forces exerted during pressing. The assembly table 50 absorbs the counterforce while the punch 41 presses the threaded bushing 10 radially into the plastic material. The punch 41 ensures that the threaded bushing 10 is pressed evenly into the material.

[0054] In Fig. Figure 3 shows the threaded bushing 10 after it has been fully pressed into the plastic material and contact has been established between the two materials. In this case, the Fig. 3 the pressed-in threaded bushing 10 in the plastic component 20 is shown in a sectional view and a top view.

[0055] Once the plastic has completely cooled and the threaded bushing 10 is firmly anchored in the material, the pressure of the press is slowly reduced. The press is then lifted, and the fixed threaded bushing 10 remains, as shown, stably and precisely positioned in the plastic component 20. During cooling, the plastic solidifies and hardens around the threaded bushing 10, thereby fixing and permanently stabilizing the material-bonded connection.

[0056] After the pressing process is complete, the threaded bushing 10 is firmly inserted into the plastic component 20, and the outer surface of the bushing is completely fused with the plastic. This connection is mechanically strong and resistant to the forces acting on the screw connection during use.

[0057] The contact area between the threaded bushing 10 and the plastic component 20 in the area of ​​the recess 30, where the plastic is fused with the threaded bushing 10, has specific characteristics that are crucial for the mechanical strength and durability of the connection.

[0058] The outer surface of the threaded bushing 10 is preferably not smooth, but provided with structures such as grooves, slots, or knurled (roughened) surfaces. These structures serve to receive the plastic during compression and to improve the mechanical anchorage. When the threaded bushing 10 is pressed into the recess 30, the heated plastic is forced into these structures, creating a positive-locking connection that ensures high mechanical strength.

[0059] In the contact area between the heated threaded bushing 10 and the plastic material in the recess 30, the plastic melts or at least softens considerably. The melting area 31 typically extends over a thin layer of the plastic material directly at the interface with the threaded bushing 10. The molten plastic preferably flows into the surface structures of the threaded bushing 10 and fills all depressions, grooves, and channels there.

[0060] After the plastic cools, a hard, solid layer forms around the threaded bushing 10. This layer takes on the shape and structure of the threaded bushing 10, including all surface features into which the plastic has advantageously penetrated. Where the plastic has penetrated deeply into the grooves or slots of the bushing, a particularly strong mechanical connection is formed, as this "interlocking" counteracts mechanical forces and prevents the bushing from slipping out or rotating.

[0061] The transition between the plastic and bushing surfaces is preferably seamless. There are no visible gaps or cavities, as the plastic has completely penetrated and solidified within the structure of the threaded bushing 10. This not only ensures a strong mechanical connection but also prevents the ingress of moisture or other substances that could impair the connection.

[0062] The Fig. Figure 4 shows an electrically powered vehicle 100 according to the invention, with a high-voltage battery 110 according to the invention. The vehicle 100 can be, for example, an electric vehicle (EV) powered exclusively by electrical energy, or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that has both an electric drive and an internal combustion engine. The high-voltage battery 110 is located in the underbody of the vehicle 100, which lowers the center of gravity of the vehicle 100 and enables better driving stability. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2018 130 007 A1 [0003, 0004]

Claims

[1] Method for fixing a threaded bushing (10) in a plastic component (20) for a high-voltage battery (110) of an electrically powered vehicle (100), comprising the following steps: a. Creating a recess (30) for the bushing (10) in the plastic component (20), b. Heating the threaded bushing (10) to a process temperature, c. Inserting the heated threaded bushing (10) into the recess (30) and d. Pressing in the threaded bushing (10) using a press (40) so that the threaded bushing (10) is pressed into the plastic component (20) in a radial direction and melts. [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by , that the recess (30) is created by means of water jet cutting and / or punching. [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the heating of the threaded bushing (10) is carried out by means of induction heating or resistance heating. [4] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the threaded bushing (10) is aligned during and / or after insertion. [5] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the press (40) is designed as a hydraulic press or a pneumatic press. [6] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that after the bushing has been fully pressed in, the press (40) exerts pressure on the threaded bushing (10) until the plastic component (20) cools down in the area of ​​the recess (30). [7] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the threaded bushing (10) and / or the plastic component (20) in the area of ​​the recess (30) is actively cooled after pressing in. [8] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the plastic component (20) is arranged on an assembly table (50) at least during the pressing process. [9] High-voltage battery (110) for an electrically powered vehicle, wherein the high-voltage battery has at least one plastic component (20) in which at least one threaded bushing (10) is fixed by means of a method having the features of one of the preceding claims. [10] Vehicle (100) with a high-voltage battery (110) having the features according to the preceding claim.

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