BATTERY PACK

Abstract

The present invention provides a battery pack comprising a first compartment for receiving a battery cell, wherein the first compartment comprises: a first side wall with a first opening; a first flexible thermal insulation layer covering the first opening, the first flexible thermal insulation layer having a first weakened structure relative to the first opening; and a second flexible thermal insulation layer connected to the first flexible thermal insulation layer and aligned with the first opening, the first flexible thermal insulation layer being arranged between the second flexible thermal insulation layer and the first side wall. The technical solution of the present invention offers, compared to existing approaches, adaptive insulation measures for battery cells operating under different operating conditions.Although it allows the emission of gases, it can at least mitigate, to some extent, the effects of the emitting battery cell on other battery cells within the battery pack.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a battery pack. State of the art

[0002] With technological advancements, the power demand of various electrical devices is constantly increasing. For example, in vehicles, factors such as higher mileage requirements and the increasing variety and quantity of vehicle features contribute to a rise in the vehicle's overall power demand. This necessitates larger battery packs with more complex internal structures to supply the required power. The interior of a battery pack typically contains numerous battery cells, which can generate gases under certain conditions. Various technical solutions have been developed to address the problem of gas emissions.

[0003] For example, patent publication US20240283084A1 discloses a battery arrangement comprising: a battery cell stack, wherein the stack comprises multiple stacked battery cells; and a housing in which the battery cell stack is received. Within the housing, multiple first degassing holes may be formed in an upper plate covering the top of the battery cell stack, and multiple second degassing holes may be formed in a side plate covering a first side face of the battery cell stack.

[0004] The inventors of the present application recognize that there is still room for further improvements in existing technical solutions of this type in order to reduce the mutual interference caused by the gas emission of battery cells, at least to some extent. Disclosure of the invention

[0005] This disclosure summarizes various aspects of the embodiments and should not be used to limit the scope of the claims. Based on the technology described herein, further embodiments are conceivable, which will be obvious to the person skilled in the art upon consideration of the accompanying drawings and detailed embodiments, and such embodiments are also intended to fall within the scope of this application.

[0006] The inventors of the present application recognize the need for a battery pack that can offer adaptive insulation measures for battery cells operating under different conditions. While it allows the emission of gases, it can at least mitigate, to some extent, the effects of the emitting battery cell on other battery cells within the battery pack, thereby increasing user satisfaction.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a battery pack is provided comprising a first compartment for receiving a battery cell, wherein the first compartment comprises: a first side wall with a first opening; a first flexible thermal insulation layer covering the first opening, the first flexible thermal insulation layer having a first weakened structure opposite the first opening; and a second flexible thermal insulation layer connected to the first flexible thermal insulation layer and aligned with the first opening, the first flexible thermal insulation layer being arranged between the second flexible thermal insulation layer and the first side wall.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack further comprises a second compartment, wherein the second compartment comprises: a second side wall with a second opening; a third flexible thermal insulation layer covering the second opening, the third flexible thermal insulation layer having a second weakened structure opposite the second opening; and a fourth flexible thermal insulation layer connected to the third flexible thermal insulation layer and aligned with the second opening, the third flexible thermal insulation layer being arranged between the fourth flexible thermal insulation layer and the second side wall, the first side wall being arranged opposite the second side wall and a degassing channel being formed between them.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack further comprises a degassing valve, wherein the degassing channel is fluidically connected to the degassing valve.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack further comprises a third compartment next to the first compartment and a fourth compartment next to the second compartment, wherein a first thermal insulation plate is arranged between the first compartment and the third compartment and a second thermal insulation plate is arranged between the second compartment and the fourth compartment.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first side wall comprises a second weakened structure.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first weakened structure is configured to break when the internal pressure of the first compartment exceeds the external pressure and reaches a first threshold, and the second weakened structure is configured to break when the internal pressure of the first compartment exceeds the external pressure and reaches a second threshold, wherein the second threshold is greater than the first threshold.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the second weakened structure comprises a discontinuous cut seam or cut groove formed in the first side wall, wherein the cut seam or cut groove defines at least a part of the boundary of the first side wall.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the gas outlet openings of the battery cell in the first compartment face the first side wall.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first side wall comprises a thermal insulation material.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first flexible thermal insulation layer has a first thickness and the second flexible thermal insulation layer has a second thickness which is greater than the first thickness.

[0017] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a battery pack is provided comprising a first compartment for receiving a battery cell, wherein the first compartment comprises: a first side wall; a first element arranged on the first side wall, wherein the first element has a first state in which it opens when the internal pressure in the first compartment exceeds the external pressure and reaches a first threshold, and a second state in which it remains closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a second threshold, wherein the first threshold is less than the second threshold.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack further comprises a second compartment for receiving a battery cell, wherein the second compartment comprises: a second side wall; a second element arranged on the second side wall, wherein the second element has a first state in which it opens when the internal pressure in the second compartment exceeds the external pressure and reaches a third threshold, and a second state in which it remains closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a fourth threshold, wherein the third threshold is less than the fourth threshold, wherein the first side wall is arranged opposite the second side wall and a degassing channel is formed between them, the degassing channel being fluidically connected to the degassing valve.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a first opening is formed in the first side wall, wherein the first element comprises a first thermal insulation layer that covers the first opening from the outside of the first compartment, wherein the first thermal insulation layer is directly connected to the first side wall above the first opening.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first thermal insulation layer comprises a flexible thermal insulation material.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack further comprises a third compartment adjacent to the first compartment, wherein the first element of the first compartment and the third element of the third compartment are formed in one piece and wherein a recess extends vertically upwards from the lower edge over at least a part of the longitudinal height between the first element and the third element.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a first opening is formed in the first side wall, wherein the first element comprises a first flexible thermal insulation layer covering the first opening, and a second flexible thermal insulation layer connected to the first flexible thermal insulation layer and aligned with the first opening, wherein the first flexible thermal insulation layer is arranged between the second flexible thermal insulation layer and the first side wall, and the adhesive strength between the first flexible thermal insulation layer and the first side wall is less than the adhesive strength between the first flexible thermal insulation layer and the second flexible thermal insulation layer.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first element comprises a groove that does not pass through the first side wall, wherein the groove is formed on the inside of the first side wall.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first side wall has a first opening, the first element comprising: a first flexible thermal insulation layer covering the first opening, the first flexible thermal insulation layer having a first weakened structure relative to the first opening; and a second flexible thermal insulation layer connected to the first flexible thermal insulation layer and aligned with the first opening, the first flexible thermal insulation layer being arranged between the second flexible thermal insulation layer and the side wall.

[0025] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a battery pack is provided which comprises a first battery arrangement. The first battery arrangement includes a first compartment and a third compartment, each accommodating a plurality of battery cells and arranged side by side.The first compartment and the third compartment comprise the following: a first side wall extending from the first compartment to the third compartment; a first and a third element arranged on the first side wall, the first element and the third element corresponding to the first and third compartments respectively, and having a first state in which they open when the internal pressure in the first compartment or in the third compartment exceeds the external pressure and reaches a first threshold, and a second state in which they remain closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a second threshold, the first threshold being less than the second threshold.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack further comprises a second battery arrangement, wherein the second battery arrangement comprises a second compartment and a fourth compartment, each of which accommodates a plurality of battery cells and is arranged side by side.The second and fourth compartments comprise: a second side wall extending from the second compartment to the fourth compartment; a second element and a fourth element arranged on the second side wall, the second element and the fourth element corresponding to the second and fourth compartments respectively, and having a first state in which they open when the internal pressure in the second compartment or the fourth compartment exceeds the external pressure and reaches a third threshold, and a second state in which they remain closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a fourth threshold, the third threshold being lower than the fourth threshold, the first side wall being arranged opposite the second side wall and forming a degassing channel between them, the degassing channel being fluidically connected to the degassing valve. Illustration of the attached drawings

[0027] For a better understanding of the present invention, reference may be made to the embodiments illustrated in the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale, and related elements may be omitted or, in some cases, proportions exaggerated to emphasize and clearly illustrate the novel features described herein. Furthermore, as is known in the prior art, system components may be arranged differently. In addition, the same reference numerals throughout the drawings denote corresponding parts. Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle that can use a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 2 shows a top view of a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic top view of the internal structure of a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic side view of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic view of the inner surface of the first side wall of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 7 shows a schematic view of the outer surface of the first side wall of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 8 shows a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the second compartment of a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 9 shows a schematic view of the inner surface of the second side wall of the second compartment of a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 10 shows a schematic top view of the internal structure of a battery pack according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 11 shows a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 12a shows a schematic representation of a battery pack in a second state according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 12b shows a schematic representation of a battery pack in a first state according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 13 shows a schematic view of the outer surface of the first side wall of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention. Fig. Figure 14 shows a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention. Fig. Figure 15 shows a schematic view of the first side wall of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 16 shows a lateral sectional view of the first side wall of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention. Fig. Figure 17 shows a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 18 shows a schematic view of the inner surface of the first side wall of the first compartment of a battery pack according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 19 shows a schematic top view of the internal structure of a battery pack according to one or more further embodiments of the present invention. Specific embodiments

[0028] The following describes exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary and that other embodiments may take various alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily to scale; certain features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of specific components. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching a person skilled in the art to use the present invention in various ways.As a person skilled in the art will understand, the various features shown and described with reference to one of the drawings can be combined with features shown in one or more other drawings to create embodiments not expressly shown or described. The combinations of features shown represent exemplary embodiments for typical applications. However, various combinations and modifications of the features, consistent with the teachings of this disclosure, may be desirable for certain applications or implementations.

[0029] In the present application, when an element or part is described as "on," "attached to," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or part, it means that the element or part may be directly on top of the other element or part, directly attached, connected, or coupled to the other element or part, or that there may be intervening elements or parts. Conversely, when an element is described as "directly on," "directly attached to," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or part, it means that there are no intervening elements or parts. Other terms used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted similarly.

[0030] As mentioned in the prior art above, the inventors recognized that existing battery packs in the prior art offered room for improvement in technical solutions for reducing the mutual interference of gas emissions between battery cells. A battery pack is needed that can provide adaptive insulation measures for battery cells operating under different conditions. While it allows the emission of gases, it can at least mitigate the effects of the emitting battery cell on other battery cells within the battery pack. Based on these problems and potential improvements in the prior art, the inventors of the present application provide, in one or more embodiments, a battery pack that is believed to solve one or more of the problems of the prior art.

[0031] First, it shows Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle 10 which can use a battery pack according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. It should be understood that, in the context of the present invention, the vehicle 10 implementing the present invention can refer to any means of transport that contains a battery pack. For example, it can include, but is not limited to, vehicles powered by fossil fuels, electric vehicles (such as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), full hybrid electric vehicles (FHEVs), mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs), or battery electric vehicles (BEVs), etc.), and can even include ships, aircraft, etc. The vehicle 10 can include mobility-related components such as an engine, an electric motor, a transmission, a suspension, drive shafts, and / or wheels, etc.The vehicle 10 can be non-autonomous, semi-autonomous (for example, some routine movement functions are controlled autonomously by the vehicle) or fully autonomous (for example, movement functions are controlled autonomously by the vehicle without direct user input).

[0032] Fig. Figure 2 shows a top view of a battery pack 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the battery pack 100 comprises a housing 110, which is formed from a top cover 112 and a bottom tray 114. Several reinforcing structures and connection points may be provided around the housing 110, which are not individually identified and described here for the sake of clarity. The battery pack 100 is generally connected to the outside atmosphere via the degassing valve.

[0033] The following description, which generally refers to the Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. Reference 9 discloses an aspect of the present invention relating to a battery pack 100.

[0034] The battery pack 100 comprises a first compartment 104, in which a battery cell 108 can be accommodated. It is understood that, depending on the specific structure and type of the battery pack, the number of battery cells 108 within the first compartment 104 may differ from the number shown in the figure, for example, by comprising fewer or more battery cells. The battery cell 108 can, among other things, represent a battery unit, an arrangement of several battery units, or a battery module, etc. The first compartment 104 further comprises a first side wall 116, a first flexible thermal insulation layer 142, and a second flexible thermal insulation layer 144. The first side wall 116 delimits at least a portion of the space of the first compartment 104. The first side wall 116 has a first opening 140. As shown in Fig. As further illustrated in Figure 3 below, in some embodiments, for example, gases escaping from the battery cell 108 can flow through the first opening 140. The first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 covers the first opening 140 and has a first weakened structure 146. The first weakened structure 146 comprises, for example, but is not limited to, a notch that only partially penetrates the depth of the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142, such as the one shown in Figure 3. Fig. The X-shaped cut is shown in Figure 6. In other embodiments of the battery pack 100, the cut can either extend completely through the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 or assume other different shapes; alternatively, the first weakened structure 146 can be realized without the cut by using locally varying materials or thickness transitions instead. The first weakened structure 146 is arranged opposite the first opening 140, such that the first weakened structure 146 is exposed through the first opening 140 to the interior of the first compartment 104 and is visible on the inner surface of the first side wall 116, as shown in Figure 6. Fig. Figure 6 shows the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 being connected to the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 and aligned with the first opening 140, wherein Fig. Figure 7 shows the outer surface of the first side wall 116. The first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 is arranged between the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 and the first side wall 116. The connection between the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142, the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144, and the first side wall 116 can be made by one or more of the following methods, including, but not limited to: gluing, welding, or hot pressing.

[0035] In this embodiment, the second flexible thermal insulation layer is oriented towards the first opening such that the projection of the second flexible thermal insulation layer onto the plane of the first side wall corresponds to the area occupied by the first opening. In one embodiment, this projection can cover and extend beyond the area where the first opening is located. In another embodiment, the projection coincides completely with the area where the first opening is located. In yet another embodiment, the projection covers only a portion of the area where the first opening is located. The second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 may or may not include an intermediate material between itself and the first side wall 116.Furthermore, in this embodiment, the terms "inside" and "outside" can refer to the position relative to the enclosed space described. For example, the side wall of the compartment, facing the interior of the compartment, can be called the "inside," while the side facing the exterior of the compartment can be called the "outside."

[0036] In the exemplary embodiment of the battery pack 100, a first weakened structure 146 is provided on the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 at the section corresponding to the first opening 140. If gas is emitted from the battery cell 108 within the first compartment 104, the first weakened structure 146 ruptures as soon as the internal pressure exceeds the external pressure and reaches a predetermined internal pressure threshold. This concentrates the stress on a small adjacent area (e.g., a seam) of the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 on the outside at the rupture point. This causes the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 to tear further, and the gas in the first compartment 104 can escape through this path.Furthermore, by connecting the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 to the outer surface of the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 at a position aligned with the first opening 140, a certain degree of external reinforcement is provided for the first opening 140 and the first weakened structure 146. This prevents an equivalent pressure increase outside the first compartment 104 from penetrating both the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 and the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142. This ensures that the seal of the first compartment 104 is maintained at least until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches an external pressure threshold, which may be significantly higher than the internal pressure threshold.This arrangement allows gases within the first compartment 104 to be vented as needed, while at the same time mitigating the effects of the increased pressure in other sections of the battery pack 100 on the internal environment of the first compartment 104.

[0037] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the aforementioned internal pressure threshold and the external pressure threshold can be adjusted by configuring different thicknesses of the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 and the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144, different areas of the first opening 140, and / or different configurations of the first weakened structure 146. In one embodiment, the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 has a first thickness, for example, 0.1 to 0.2 mm, while the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 has a second thickness that is greater than the first thickness, for example, 0.5 to 1 mm. The values ​​mentioned above are examples only and are not to be considered limiting.The thicker second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 offers higher resistance to external pressure, while the thinner first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 makes internal pressure more susceptible to bursting. This results in a greater difference between the corresponding internal pressure threshold and the external pressure threshold.

[0038] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 and the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 can comprise any material capable of providing a certain degree of thermal insulation and exhibiting a certain degree of toughness, such as mica, ceramic, silicone, and the like. For example, the first flexible thermal insulation layer 142 can comprise mica paper, while the second flexible thermal insulation layer 144 can comprise mica tape. In some embodiments of the battery pack 100, the first side wall 116 can also contain a thermal insulation material, for example, materials comprising mica, ceramic, silicon, etc., to ensure improved insulation of the first compartment 104 from external heat sources.

[0039] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, in one embodiment the gas outlet openings 138 of the battery cell 108 can point within the first compartment 104 towards the first side wall 116. This structural arrangement allows gas from the first compartment 104 to escape via the first opening 140 along the shortest possible path when the battery cell 108 emits gas. As shown, a gap 134 can be present between the battery cell 108 and the first side wall 116. This prevents an obstruction of the gas flow to the gas outlet opening 138 and provides space for structures such as electrical connections between corresponding electrode tabs.

[0040] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the first side wall 116 can further comprise a second weakened structure 136, as shown in the Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows the second weakened structure 136. For example, the second weakened structure 136 can be a discontinuous cut seam or a discontinuous cut groove that fully or partially penetrates the first side wall 116. The second weakened structure 136 enables the provision of an adaptable multi-stage opening strategy for the first compartment 104. In one embodiment, the first weakened structure 146 can be configured to rupture when the internal pressure of the first compartment 104 exceeds the external pressure and reaches a first internal pressure threshold, and the second weakened structure 136 can be configured to rupture when the internal pressure of the first compartment 104 exceeds the external pressure and reaches a second internal pressure threshold, the second internal pressure threshold being greater than the first internal pressure threshold.If the pressure in the first compartment 104 increases to varying degrees, several corresponding opening degrees are provided by the first side wall 116 to release the gas at different rates. In one embodiment and with reference to the... Fig. 6 to Fig. 7. The cut seam or the cut groove in the second weakened structure 136 can form at least part of the boundary of the first side wall 116. In the event of a fracture, this provides a larger gas outlet opening, resulting in a higher outlet rate.

[0041] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the battery pack 100 can further comprise a second compartment 122, wherein the second compartment 122 includes a second side wall 124, a third flexible thermal insulation layer 154, and a fourth flexible thermal insulation layer 156. A second opening 152 is formed in the second side wall 124, wherein the third flexible thermal insulation layer 154 covers the second opening 152. The second weakened structure 162 is arranged on the third flexible thermal insulation layer 154 and opposite the second opening 152. Fig. Figure 9 schematically shows the inner surface of the second side wall 124. The fourth flexible thermal insulation layer 156 is connected to the third flexible thermal insulation layer 154 and aligned with the second opening 152. The third flexible thermal insulation layer 154 is positioned between the fourth flexible thermal insulation layer 156 and the second side wall 124. The first side wall 116 of the first compartment 104 is positioned opposite the second side wall 124 of the second compartment 122, forming a degassing channel 128 between them. In this arrangement, the first compartment 104 and the second compartment 122 are positioned opposite each other and share a degassing channel 128. This arrangement allows for a compact overall structure while simultaneously enabling the venting of gases from the respective compartments as needed through their respective flexible thermal insulation layers and weakened structures.Furthermore, it mitigates to some extent the effects on the non-emitting compartment on the opposite side caused by the increase in external pressure due to the emitting compartment.

[0042] The battery pack 100 may also include a degassing valve 130, as shown in Fig. Figure 3 shows the degassing channel 128 being fluidically connected to the degassing valve 130. This allows gases generated in certain compartments of the battery pack to flow through the degassing channel 128 to the degassing valve 130, where they are expelled from the battery pack 100, thereby reducing the internal pressure in the battery pack 100. It is understood that the position, shape, and configuration of the degassing valve 130 in Figure 3 are Fig. Figure 3 is shown only as an example. Depending on the actual structure and application of the battery pack, the degassing valve 130 can be located in different places, such as on the top, bottom, or side of the battery pack, and may have different shapes or configurations.

[0043] The battery pack 100 can also include a third compartment 158 ​​and a fourth compartment 160. With reference to Fig. The third compartment 158 ​​borders the first compartment 104, while the fourth compartment 160 borders the second compartment 122. The third compartment 158 ​​and the fourth compartment 160 can also have the same or a similar structure to the first compartment 104 and the second compartment 122, for example, an opening / a flexible protective layer, etc. The first thermal insulation panel 132 is arranged between the first compartment 104 and the third compartment 158, while the second thermal insulation panel 164 is arranged between the second compartment 122 and the fourth compartment 160. The arrangement of thermal insulation panels between adjacent compartments can slow down the heat transfer between them and thus isolate their mutual influence.

[0044] With reference to the Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12 to Fig. Figure 13 schematically illustrates a battery pack 200 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of clarity, only some features of the battery pack 200 are explained below, while other features, if compatible with each other, may refer to the preceding descriptions of the battery pack 100. The battery pack 200 comprises a first compartment 204 for receiving a battery cell 208, wherein the first compartment 204 further comprises a first side wall 216 and a first element 206 arranged on the first side wall 216. The first element 206 has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the first element 206 can open when the internal pressure in the first compartment 204 exceeds the external pressure and reaches a first internal pressure threshold.In the second state, the first element 206 can remain closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a second external pressure threshold, where the first internal pressure threshold is lower than the second external pressure threshold. For example, the first internal pressure threshold can be 0.5 to 3 kPa and the second external pressure threshold 5 to 10 kPa. The values ​​mentioned above are examples only and are not intended to be limiting. As described elsewhere in this description, the first element 206 can adopt different configurations depending on the battery structure and gas emission requirements. This allows gases within the first compartment 204 to be vented as needed, while simultaneously mitigating the effects of increased pressure in other sections of the battery pack 200 on the battery cell 208 in the first compartment 204.

[0045] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, a first opening 240 can be provided in the first side wall 216 of the battery pack 200. The first element 206 further comprises a first thermal insulation layer 248, which covers the first opening 240 from the outside of the first compartment 204, the first thermal insulation layer 248 being directly connected to the first side wall 216 above the first opening 240. Furthermore, reference is made to the Fig. 12a and Fig. 12b referred to, whereby the Fig. Figure 12b shows the first state of the first element 206, in which the internal pressure within the first compartment 204 exceeds the external pressure and reaches a first internal pressure threshold. The gas within the first compartment 204 pushes outwards against the first thermal insulation layer 248, causing the first thermal insulation layer 248 to rotate upwards from its fixed position and the gas to escape from the first compartment 204 into other spaces within the battery pack 200. Fig. Figure 12a shows the second state of the first element 206. At this point, the external pressure of the first compartment 204 exceeds the internal pressure but has not yet reached the second external pressure threshold. The first thermal insulation layer 248 is pressed against the first side wall 216 by the external pressure, thus keeping the first compartment 204 in a closed state. This protects its interior from increased pressure emanating from other parts within the battery pack 200 or mitigates its effects.

[0046] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the first thermal insulation layer 248 can comprise a flexible thermal insulation material, such as, but not limited to, a fibrous insulating felt containing materials such as mica, ceramic, silicone, and the like. This allows the first thermal insulation layer 248 to rotate outwards from its fixed position and simultaneously bend outwards, thereby further opening the passage for the gas flow, as shown in Fig. 12b shown. Furthermore, in the second state, the first thermal insulation layer 248 can seal the interior of the first compartment 204 more effectively when it is pressed against the first side wall 216 by external pressure.

[0047] The battery pack 200 can also include a third compartment 258, as shown in the Fig. 10 and Fig. Figure 13 illustrates this. The third compartment 258 adjoins the first compartment 204 and has a third element 266 corresponding to the first element 206. The first element 206 of the first compartment 204 and the third element 266 of the third compartment 258 can be formed in one piece, for example, as a single piece of fibrous insulating felt. A recess 250 can be formed between the first element 206 and the third element 266, extending vertically upwards from its lower edge over at least a portion of the longitudinal height. The recess 250 can, for example, extend upwards to a height above the upper edge of the first opening 240. This arrangement can simplify the structure of the first element 206 and the third element 266, as well as the corresponding manufacturing and assembly processes.

[0048] The battery pack 200 can further include a second compartment 222 for receiving a battery cell 208, as shown in Fig. Figure 10 shows the second compartment 222 comprising a second side wall 224 and a second element 226 arranged on the second side wall 224. The second element 226 has a first state in which it opens when the internal pressure in the second compartment 222 exceeds the external pressure and reaches a third internal pressure threshold, and a second state in which it remains closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a fourth external pressure threshold, the third internal pressure threshold being lower than the fourth external pressure threshold. The first side wall 216 is arranged opposite the second side wall 224, forming a degassing channel 228 between them, the degassing channel 228 being fluidically connected to a degassing valve 230. In this arrangement, the first compartment 204 and the second compartment 222 are arranged opposite each other and share a degassing channel 228.This arrangement allows for a compact overall structure while simultaneously enabling the venting of gases from the respective compartments as needed through their respective first element 206 and second element 226. Furthermore, it mitigates to some extent the effects caused by the increase in external pressure due to the emitting compartment on the opposite side. In addition, the second compartment 222 can also include an adjacent fourth compartment 260.

[0049] Referring to Fig. Figure 14 shows a schematic representation of a battery pack 300 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of clarity, only some features of the battery pack 300 are explained below, while other features, if compatible with each other, may refer to the preceding descriptions of the battery pack 100. The battery pack 300 comprises a first compartment 304, wherein the first compartment 304 comprises a first side wall 316 and a first element 306 thereon. A first opening 340 is formed in the first side wall 316. The first element 306 comprises a first flexible thermal insulation layer 342 and a second flexible thermal insulation layer 344. The first flexible thermal insulation layer 342 covers the first opening 340, while the second flexible thermal insulation layer 344 is connected to the first flexible thermal insulation layer 342 and aligned with the first opening 340.The first flexible thermal insulation layer 342 is positioned between the second flexible thermal insulation layer 344 and the first sidewall 316. The adhesive strength between the first flexible thermal insulation layer 342 and the first sidewall 316 is lower than the adhesive strength between the first flexible thermal insulation layer 342 and the second flexible thermal insulation layer 344. The aforementioned adhesive bond can be achieved by methods including, but not limited to, gluing, welding, or hot pressing. Differences in adhesive strength can be achieved by variations such as different joining techniques (e.g., one using gluing, while another uses hot pressing), different adhesives (e.g., different adhesive concentrations), or different surface treatments prior to joining (e.g., smooth versus rough surfaces).A lower adhesive strength between the first flexible thermal insulation layer 342 and the first side wall 316 allows the gas in the first compartment 204 to more easily push the first flexible thermal insulation layer 342 away from the first side wall 316, enabling gas emission when the internal pressure of the first compartment 304 exceeds the external pressure and reaches the first internal pressure threshold. Before the external pressure of the first compartment 304 exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a second external pressure threshold, the higher adhesive strength between the first flexible thermal insulation layer 342 and the second flexible thermal insulation layer 344 ensures that the external pressure presses the second flexible thermal insulation layer 344 and the first flexible thermal insulation layer 342 firmly against the first side wall 316.This maintains the internal seal of the first compartment 304, thereby preventing or mitigating the effects of increased pressure from other parts within the battery pack 300.

[0050] With reference to the Fig. 15 to Fig. Figure 16 schematically shows a battery pack 400 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of clarity, only some features of the battery pack 400 are explained below, while other features, if compatible with each other, may refer to the preceding descriptions of the battery pack 100. The battery pack 400 comprises a first compartment, wherein the first compartment comprises a first side wall 416 and a first element 406 thereon. The first element 406 comprises a groove that does not extend through the first side wall 416, wherein the groove is formed on the inside of the first side wall 416, as shown on the right-hand side in Figure 16. Fig. Figure 16 illustrates this arrangement. In this arrangement, a groove is formed on the inner surface of the first side wall 416, so that the rupture effect generated on the inner and outer surfaces of the first side wall 416 differs when they are subjected to the same pressure. When the internal pressure exceeds the external pressure and reaches the predetermined internal pressure threshold, the stress concentrated at the groove of the first element 406 ruptures the first side wall 416, allowing the gas in the first compartment to escape. Furthermore, the absence of weakening features such as grooves on the outer surface of the first side wall 416 prevents a pressure increase of the same magnitude on the outside of the first compartment from rupturing the first side wall 416. Consequently, the first compartment remains sealed at least until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches an external pressure threshold that is significantly greater than the internal pressure threshold.

[0051] With reference to the Fig. 17 to Fig. Figure 18 schematically illustrates a battery pack 500 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of clarity, only some features of the battery pack 500 are explained below, while other features, if compatible with each other, may refer to the preceding descriptions of the battery pack 100. The battery pack 500 comprises a first compartment 504, wherein the first compartment 504 comprises a first side wall 516 and a first element 506 thereon. A first opening 540 is formed in the first side wall 516. The first element 506 comprises a first flexible thermal insulation layer 542 and a second flexible thermal insulation layer 544. The first flexible thermal insulation layer 542 covers the first opening 540 and has a first weakened structure 546 relative to the first opening 540, as shown in Figure 18. Fig. Figure 18 shows the second flexible thermal insulation layer 544 connected to the first flexible thermal insulation layer 542 and aligned with the first opening 540, with the first flexible thermal insulation layer 542 positioned between the second flexible thermal insulation layer 544 and the side wall 516. In this arrangement, if gas is emitted from the battery cell within the first compartment 504, the first weakened structure 546 ruptures as soon as the internal pressure exceeds the external pressure and reaches a predetermined internal pressure threshold. This concentrates the stress on a small adjacent area (e.g., a seam) of the second flexible thermal insulation layer 544 on the outside at the rupture point. This causes the second flexible thermal insulation layer 544 to rupture further, allowing the gas in the first compartment 504 to escape.The second flexible thermal insulation layer 544, which provides external protection, prevents a corresponding increase in the external pressure of the first compartment 504 from penetrating both the second flexible thermal insulation layer 544 and the first flexible thermal insulation layer 542. This ensures that the seal of the first compartment 504 remains intact, at least until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches the external pressure threshold. This external pressure threshold is significantly higher than the internal pressure threshold.

[0052] With reference to the Fig.Figure 19 schematically illustrates a battery pack 600 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of clarity, only some features of the battery pack 600 are explained below, while other features, if compatible with each other, may refer to the preceding descriptions of the battery pack 100. The battery pack 600 has a first battery arrangement 602, wherein the first battery arrangement 602 comprises a first compartment 604 and a third compartment 658, each of which accommodates a plurality of battery cells 608 and is arranged side by side. The first compartment 604 and the third compartment 658 each comprise a first side wall 616 extending from the first compartment 604 to the third compartment 658. The first side wall 616 is located on the same opposite side of both the first compartment 604 and the third compartment 658 and is used jointly by both.The first compartment 604 and the third compartment 658 further comprise a first element 606 and a third element 668 arranged on the first side wall 616, wherein the first element 606 and the third element 668 each correspond to the first compartment 604 and the third compartment 658 and have a first state in which they open when the internal pressure in the first compartment 604 or in the third compartment 658 exceeds the external pressure and reaches a first threshold, and a second state in which they remain closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a second threshold, wherein the first threshold is less than the second threshold.This embodiment comprises multiple compartments based on the structure of the battery assembly, thereby enabling gas emission within each compartment as needed, while simultaneously mitigating the effects of pressure increases within the battery pack 600 caused by emitting compartments on non-emitting compartments. At the same time, the shared use of the first side wall 616 by multiple compartments and across the entire assembly simplifies the overall structure.

[0053] The battery pack 600 further comprises a second battery assembly 618, wherein the second battery assembly 618 includes a second compartment 622 and a fourth compartment 660, each accommodating a plurality of battery cells 608 and arranged side by side. The second compartment 622 and the fourth compartment 660 each comprise a second side wall 624 extending from the second compartment 622 to the fourth compartment 660, as well as a second element 626 and a fourth element 670 arranged on the second side wall 624, the second element 626 and the fourth element 670 corresponding to the second compartment 622 and the fourth compartment 660, respectively.The second element 626 and the fourth element 670 have a first state in which they open when the internal pressure in the second compartment 622 or the fourth compartment 660 exceeds the external pressure and reaches a third threshold, and a second state in which they remain closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a fourth threshold, the third threshold being lower than the fourth threshold. The first side wall 616 is arranged opposite the second side wall 624, forming a degassing channel 628 between them, the degassing channel 628 being fluidically connected to a degassing valve 630. In this arrangement, the first side wall 616 of the first battery arrangement 602 is positioned opposite the second side wall 624 of the second battery arrangement 618, with both sharing the degassing channel 628. This makes the overall structure more compact.Gases within the respective compartment can be released via the degassing channel 628 through the first element 606 and third element 668, as well as the second element 626 and fourth element 670, as needed. This arrangement also mitigates to some extent the effects of the increased external pressure caused by gas emissions from one compartment on the non-emitting compartment on the opposite side.

[0054] In summary, the present invention proposes a battery pack that differs from the prior art. Compared to existing approaches, the technical solution of the present invention offers adaptive insulation measures for battery cells operating under different conditions. While it allows the emission of gases, it can mitigate, at least to some extent, the effects of the emitting battery cell on other battery cells within the battery pack.

[0055] It should be understood that, provided that technical feasibility is ensured, the technical features listed for different embodiments can be combined to form further embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

[0056] In the present application, the use of adversative conjunctions is to be understood as including all conjunctions. The use of definite or indefinite articles is not intended to indicate a cardinal number. In particular, reference to "the" or "a" object is to be understood as designating one of several possible such objects. Furthermore, the conjunction "or" can be used to convey simultaneously existing features rather than mutually exclusive alternatives. In other words, the conjunction "or" is to be understood as including "and / or". The term "comprises / has" is inclusive and has the same scope as "contains".

[0057] The foregoing embodiments are possible examples of embodiments of the present invention and are given only to make the principles of the present invention clear to those skilled in the art. Those skilled in the art should understand that the foregoing discussion of any one embodiment is merely exemplary and is not intended to indicate that the scope of protection of the disclosure of embodiments of the present invention (including the claims) is limited to these examples. Within the overall concept of the present invention, the technical features in the foregoing embodiments or in various embodiments can also be combined with one another and generate many other variations of the various aspects of the embodiments of the present invention as described above, which have not been provided in the detailed description for the sake of clarity.Therefore, all omissions, modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the embodiments of the present invention shall be included in the scope of protection of the present invention. 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] US 20240283084A1

[0003]

Claims

[1] Battery pack comprising a first compartment for receiving a battery cell, the first compartment comprising: a first side wall with a first opening; a first flexible thermal insulation layer covering the first opening, wherein the first flexible thermal insulation layer has a first weakened structure opposite the first opening; and a second flexible thermal insulation layer, which is connected to the first flexible thermal insulation layer and aligned with the first opening, wherein the first flexible thermal insulation layer is arranged between the second flexible thermal insulation layer and the first side wall. [2] Battery pack according to claim 1, further comprising a second compartment, the second compartment comprising: a second side wall with a second opening; a third flexible thermal insulation layer covering the second opening, wherein the third flexible thermal insulation layer has a second weakened structure opposite the second opening; and a fourth flexible thermal insulation layer connected to the third flexible thermal insulation layer and aligned with the second opening, wherein the third flexible thermal insulation layer is arranged between the fourth flexible thermal insulation layer and the second side wall, wherein the first side wall is arranged opposite the second side wall, thereby forming a degassing channel between them. [3] Battery pack according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a degassing valve, wherein the degassing channel is fluidically connected to the degassing valve. [4] Battery pack according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising a third compartment next to the first compartment and a fourth compartment next to the second compartment, wherein a first thermal insulation plate is arranged between the first compartment and the third compartment and a second thermal insulation plate is arranged between the second compartment and the fourth compartment. [5] Battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first side wall comprises a second weakened structure. [6] Battery pack according to claim 5, wherein the first weakened structure is configured to break when the internal pressure of the first compartment exceeds the external pressure and reaches a first threshold, and the second weakened structure is configured to break when the internal pressure of the first compartment exceeds the external pressure and reaches a second threshold, wherein the second threshold is greater than the first threshold. [7] Battery pack according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the second weakened structure comprises a discontinuous cut seam or cut groove formed in the first side wall, wherein the cut seam or cut groove defines at least a part of the boundary of the first side wall. [8] Battery pack according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the gas outlet openings of the battery cell in the first compartment point towards the first side wall. [9] Battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first side wall comprises a thermal insulation material. [10] Battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first flexible thermal insulation layer has a first thickness and the second flexible thermal insulation layer has a second thickness which is greater than the first thickness. [11] Battery pack comprising a first compartment for receiving a battery cell, the first compartment comprising: a first side wall; a first element arranged on the first side wall, wherein the first element has a first state in which it opens when the internal pressure in the first compartment exceeds the external pressure and reaches a first threshold, and a second state in which it remains closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a second threshold, where the first threshold is smaller than the second threshold. [12] Battery pack according to claim 11, further comprising a second compartment for receiving a battery cell, wherein the second compartment comprises: a second side wall; a second element arranged on the second side wall, wherein the second element has a first state in which it opens when the internal pressure in the second compartment exceeds the external pressure and reaches a third threshold, and a second state in which it remains closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a fourth threshold, where the third threshold is smaller than the fourth threshold, wherein the first side wall is arranged opposite the second side wall, thereby forming a degassing channel between them, the degassing channel being fluidically connected to a degassing valve. [13] Battery pack according to claim 11 or 12, wherein a first opening is formed in the first side wall and the first element comprises a first thermal insulation layer covering the first opening from the outside of the first compartment, wherein the first thermal insulation layer is connected to the first side wall directly above the first opening. [14] Battery pack according to claim 13, wherein the first thermal insulation layer comprises a flexible thermal insulation material. [15] Battery pack according to one of claims 11 to 14, further comprising a third compartment adjacent to the first compartment, wherein the first element of the first compartment and the third element of the third compartment are formed in one piece and wherein a recess extends vertically upwards from the lower edge over at least a part of the longitudinal height between the first element and the third element. [16] Battery pack according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein a first opening is formed in the first side wall, wherein the first element comprises a first flexible thermal insulation layer covering the first opening, and a second flexible thermal insulation layer connected to the first flexible thermal insulation layer and aligned with the first opening, wherein the first flexible thermal insulation layer is arranged between the second flexible thermal insulation layer and the first side wall, and the adhesive strength between the first flexible thermal insulation layer and the first side wall is less than the adhesive strength between the first flexible thermal insulation layer and the second flexible thermal insulation layer. [17] Battery pack according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the first element comprises a groove which does not pass through the first side wall, wherein the groove is formed on the inside of the first side wall. [18] Battery pack according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the first side wall has a first opening and the first element comprises: a first flexible thermal insulation layer covering the first opening, wherein the first flexible thermal insulation layer has a first weakened structure opposite the first opening; and a second flexible thermal insulation layer, which is connected to the first flexible thermal insulation layer and aligned with the first opening, wherein the first flexible thermal insulation layer is arranged between the second flexible thermal insulation layer and the side wall. [19] Battery pack comprising a first battery arrangement, the first battery arrangement comprising a first compartment and a third compartment, each accommodating a plurality of battery units and arranged side by side, the first compartment and the third compartment comprising: a first side wall extending from the first compartment to the third compartment; a first element and a third element arranged on the first side wall, the first element and the third element corresponding to the first and third compartments respectively, and having a first state in which they open when the internal pressure in the first compartment or in the third compartment exceeds the external pressure and a first threshold is reached, and a second state in which they remain closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a second threshold, the first threshold being smaller than the second threshold. [20] Battery pack according to claim 19, further comprising a second battery arrangement, wherein the second battery arrangement comprises a second and a fourth compartment, each accommodating a plurality of battery units and arranged side by side, wherein the second and the fourth compartment comprise: a second side wall extending from the second compartment to the fourth compartment; a second element and a fourth element arranged on the second side wall, the second element and the fourth element corresponding to the second and fourth compartments respectively, and having a first state in which they open when the internal pressure in the second compartment or in the fourth compartment exceeds the external pressure and a third threshold is reached, and a second state in which they remain closed until the external pressure exceeds the internal pressure and reaches a fourth threshold, where the third threshold is smaller than the fourth threshold, wherein the first side wall is arranged opposite the second side wall, thereby forming a degassing channel between them, the degassing channel being fluidically connected to a degassing valve.

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