Method for producing a compressed battery cell assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing a compressed battery cell assembly (10). The method comprises arranging a plurality of battery cells (12) to form a battery cell assembly. The method also comprises compressing the battery cell assembly by means of at least one pressing ram (22) of a clamping device. During the compression of the battery cell assembly, the at least one pressing ram (22) presses against the battery cell assembly. The method additionally comprises applying a curable compound (2) to the compressed battery cell assembly (10). The invention also relates to a compressed battery cell assembly produced using said method.

Description

[0001] Process for producing a strained battery cell assembly

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a method for producing a strained battery cell assembly and to a strained battery cell assembly produced by said method.

[0004] It is known in the art to equip electric and hybrid vehicles with battery modules to power the drive units of the respective vehicles using the electrical energy stored or storable therein. Such battery modules typically comprise several battery cells (e.g., lithium-ion battery cells) that are electrically connected to form a high-voltage battery.

[0005] It is also known to mechanically clamp the battery cells of such a battery module. For this purpose, the battery cells are typically arranged in the form of a cell stack, which is then secured by applying a preload force using a mechanical holding device. Such a holding device can be designed, for example, as a holding frame with two end plates that are connected to one another via at least two side plates. In addition to holding the cell stack together, clamping often also serves as a measure against excessively rapid aging of the battery cells. Thus, applying an ideal preload, which depends on the chemistry of the battery cells, enables the battery cells to achieve the highest possible number of usable charge and discharge cycles while simultaneously achieving the greatest possible usable battery capacity.

[0006] A disadvantage of the known holding devices is often the sometimes multi-part design and complex connection of the corresponding components, such as side plates, tie rods, clamping straps, etc. Another disadvantage is that parasitic capacitances, so-called Y-capacitances, can develop due to the mostly metallic holding devices, which can impair the performance of the battery module.

[0007] Accordingly, the object of the invention is to simplify or improve the provision of clamped battery cells. Preferably, the object of the invention is to provide the simplest possible way by which battery cells can be fixed in a clamped state, preferably without the need for (sometimes heavy) metallic frame structures. These objects can be achieved with the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and applications of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and are explained in more detail in the following description, with partial reference to the figures.

[0008] According to a first independent aspect, a method is provided. The method is preferably used to produce a strained battery cell assembly.

[0009] The method involves arranging a plurality of battery cells (e.g., lithium-ion battery cells) to form a battery cell assembly. A battery cell assembly can preferably be understood as a predetermined, i.e., previously defined, arrangement of the battery cells to form a unit. For example, the battery cell assembly can be a battery cell stack and / or a grid arrangement of battery cells.

[0010] The method further comprises clamping the battery cell assembly using at least one (e.g., cylindrical) pressure plunger of a clamping device. The at least one pressure plunger presses against the battery cell assembly during clamping. During clamping, the plurality of battery cells can thus be subjected to pressure or pressed against one another. The at least one pressure plunger of the clamping device can be driven, for example, mechanically, hydraulically, and / or pneumatically.

[0011] The method further comprises applying a preferably electrically non-conductive, curable mass to the clamped battery cell assembly. The curable mass is preferably applied while the battery cell assembly is clamped by means of the at least one pressure stamp. For example, the curable mass can be applied in the clamping device. The curable mass can be, for example, a resin (e.g., a casting resin), a molding compound, and / or a foaming plastic. The application of the curable mass preferably serves to fix the clamped battery cell assembly. After the curable mass has hardened, the battery cell assembly can thus advantageously be fixed in a clamped state without the need for complex, multi-part frame structures.This also has the advantage that the battery cells are protected as reliably as possible against external influences and that electrical insulation from the outside can be achieved. By eliminating metallic frame elements, parasitic Y capacitances can also be advantageously reduced and / or the electromagnetic compatibility of the device can be improved.

[0012] According to one aspect, the at least one pressure stamp can have at least two (e.g., cylindrical) pressure stamps. Preferably, the at least two pressure stamps press against the battery cell assembly on opposite sides (e.g., directly) during clamping of the battery cell assembly. For example only, one of the at least two pressure stamps can press against the battery cell assembly from the left during clamping, while a second of the at least two pressure stamps can press against the battery cell assembly from the right. The at least two pressure stamps can be configured identically or differently. This advantageously allows for the most uniform clamping of the battery cell assembly possible.

[0013] According to a further aspect, the application can comprise casting, spraying, and / or foaming the curable compound. Preferably, the application comprises casting, spraying, and / or foaming the curable compound around the clamped battery cell assembly, preferably such that the clamped battery cell assembly is circumferentially surrounded by the curable compound. For example, after the application of the curable compound, the clamped battery cell assembly can be surrounded by a preferably closed frame made of the curable compound. This advantageously provides a means for securing the clamped battery cell assembly that is as simple and quick to install as possible.

[0014] According to a further aspect, when the curable mass is applied to the strained battery cell assembly, the strained battery cell assembly can rest on a base. The base is preferably flat or planar. For example, the base can be plate-shaped. The base can have a top side onto which the strained battery cell assembly is placed. Preferably, it can be provided that when the curable mass is applied to the strained battery cell assembly, the strained battery cell assembly rests on the base in such a way that the curable mass cannot penetrate between the base and the strained battery cell assembly. Accordingly, during application, the curable mass can preferably not be applied to an underside of the strained battery cell assembly.Advantageously, the battery cell assembly can then be mounted (preferably after hardening of the mass) with the exposed underside on a cooling device, whereby the best possible heat transfer between the components can be ensured (e.g. via a gap filler inserted between the underside and the cooling device).

[0015] According to a further aspect, when the curable mass is applied to the strained battery cell assembly, the strained battery cell assembly can be surrounded by a filling mold. The filling mold can be a (e.g., reusable) filling mold that is used to produce multiple strained battery cell assemblies. Alternatively, the filling mold can also be a filling mold that subsequently remains on the strained battery cell assembly (e.g., in the form of a housing). The filling mold is preferably a filling frame. For example, the filling mold can have multiple wall sections that circumferentially surround the through-opening for receiving the strained battery cell assembly.In a preferred embodiment, when applying the curable compound to the clamped battery cell assembly, the clamped battery cell assembly can be surrounded by the filling mold in such a way that a gap exists between the clamped battery cell assembly and the filling mold, into which the curable compound is introduced. The gap can thus be delimited on the outside by the filling mold and on the inside by the clamped battery cell assembly. Overall, this advantageously allows the thickness of the applied curable compound to be controlled as reliably as possible.

[0016] According to a further aspect, the filling mold can have at least one opening (e.g., a bore and / or recess) through which the at least one pressure stamp extends. Preferably, the at least one opening has a contour that corresponds to an outer contour of the at least one pressure stamp.

[0017] According to a further aspect, the plurality of battery cells of the battery cell assembly can each have contact poles (e.g., a positive and a negative pole). Furthermore, when applying the curable mass to the clamped battery cell assembly, the contact poles of the plurality of battery cells can be oriented upwards and / or downwards. For example, the contact poles of all (e.g., prismatic) battery cells can be oriented upwards. This can advantageously enable good accessibility to the contact poles (e.g., for subsequent attachment of pole connectors). According to a further aspect, when applying the curable mass to the clamped battery cell assembly, the curable mass can be applied over the entire height of the battery cells. For example, the curable mass can be applied from a (e.g., bottom-side) lower edge of the respective battery cells to a (e.g.,(cover side) upper edge of the respective battery cells.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, when applying the curable compound to the clamped battery cell assembly, the curable compound can be applied circumferentially. For example, the curable compound can be applied such that the curable compound surrounds the clamped battery cell assembly circumferentially, preferably completely. Preferably, when applying the curable compound to the clamped battery cell assembly, the curable compound is applied exclusively circumferentially.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, when applying the curable compound to the clamped battery cell assembly, the curable compound can be applied to the side surfaces of the clamped battery cell assembly. The side surfaces of the clamped battery cell assembly can, for example, be oriented essentially vertically. When applying the curable compound to the clamped battery cell assembly, the curable compound is preferably applied exclusively to the side surfaces of the clamped battery cell assembly.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, when applying the curable compound to the clamped battery cell assembly, the curable compound may not be applied to a top and / or bottom of the clamped battery cell assembly. This can be achieved, for example, by appropriately controlling the application and / or by appropriately covering the top and / or bottom of the clamped battery cell assembly. Overall, this advantageously enables the best possible fixation of the battery cell assembly while simultaneously ensuring good accessibility (e.g., of the contact terminals).

[0021] According to a further aspect, when applying the curable mass to the clamped battery cell assembly, the curable mass can also be applied to a section of the at least one pressure die. For example, the curable mass can be applied to a section of the at least one pressure die located within the filling mold. Accordingly, the corresponding section of the at least one pressure die can be embedded in the curable mass after application. This advantageously ensures reliable clamping even during application.

[0022] According to a further aspect, the method can further comprise curing the curable mass. Curing can occur, for example, by cooling and solidifying the curable mass. In addition, or alternatively, curing can also occur through a (chemical) curing reaction. For example only, the curable mass (e.g., a reactive resin) can be mixed with a hardener (e.g., an amine hardener), allowing the two components to react to form a (e.g., thermosetting) plastic. It is also possible for the curable mass and the hardener to be mixed (e.g., immediately) before application and / or during application. Accordingly, curing can also partially occur during application. This advantageously allows the battery cell assembly as a whole to be fixed in its clamped state.

[0023] According to a further aspect, the method may further comprise releasing the at least one pressure stamp from the battery cell assembly after the curable compound has hardened. For example, the release may occur by moving (e.g., retracting) the at least one pressure stamp from the battery cell assembly. Accordingly, the battery cell assembly may then also be removed from the clamping device, for example. The thus obtained (clamped and fixed) battery cell assembly may also be referred to as a "packet," which can then be inserted into a battery or directly into a vehicle.

[0024] According to a further aspect, at least one recess can be created in the hardened mass by releasing the at least one pressure stamp. The at least one recess can be, for example, a hole, a gap, and / or a depression in the hardened mass. In particular, if the hardenable mass was additionally applied to a section of the at least one pressure stamp when applying the hardenable mass to the clamped battery cell assembly, the at least one pressure stamp can be partially surrounded by the hardened mass before release. Upon release (e.g., retraction) of the at least one pressure stamp, the region in which the at least one pressure stamp was previously received can thus form the corresponding at least one recess in the hardened mass. For example, a contour of the at least one recess can correspond to an outer contour of the at least one pressure stamp.Furthermore, the method can comprise closing the at least one recess with at least one filling. Preferably, the at least one filling can be at least one filling compound and / or at least one plug. The at least one filling can be introduced into the at least one recess (e.g., poured and / or inserted), preferably in such a way that the at least one filling is flush with the hardened compound on the outside. This advantageously provides the most closed casing possible for the battery cell assembly.

[0025] According to a further aspect, when arranging the plurality of battery cells to form the battery cell assembly, at least one gap filler can be positioned between two of the plurality of battery cells. The two battery cells should therefore preferably not lie directly against one another, but rather be separated or spaced apart from one another by the at least one gap filler. Preferably, the at least one gap filler completely fills a gap between the two battery cells so that when the curable mass is subsequently applied, it cannot penetrate between the two battery cells. The gap filler can be, for example, a mat or a cushion, in particular an elastomer mat or an elastomer cushion, for example a so-called gap pad, for example made of a TIM material (Thermal Interface Material), in particular for thermal contacting of the battery cells. The gap filler can be elastic and / or deformable, e.g.to relieve pressure in the event of swelling-related expansion of the battery cells.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively, when arranging the plurality of battery cells to form the battery cell assembly, at least one end plate can be positioned on a side surface of one of the plurality of battery cells. Particularly in the case where the battery cell assembly is a battery cell stack, the at least one end plate can be positioned, for example, on a front end of the battery cell stack. The at least one end plate can also serve as a support or pressure surface for the at least one pressure stamp of the clamping device. This advantageously allows the most uniform contact pressure possible to be exerted on the battery cell assembly.

[0027] According to a further aspect, when arranging the plurality of battery cells to form the battery cell assembly, the plurality of battery cells can be arranged in a plurality of groups. For example, the plurality of battery cells can be arranged in the form of a plurality of battery cell stacks (e.g., offset parallel to one another). Preferably, the plurality of groups are arranged spaced apart from one another, preferably such that, when the curable compound is applied, the curable compound can penetrate between the plurality of groups. In this way, logical groupings of the battery cells (e.g., in the form of a plurality of battery modules) can advantageously be created, which can then be simultaneously clamped or fixed by the curable compound.

[0028] According to a further aspect, the curable mass may be a plastic material and / or a synthetic resin material (e.g., an epoxy resin material) and / or a foam material (e.g., a polyurethane foam material).

[0029] According to a further aspect, a strained battery cell assembly is provided which is manufactured according to a method as described in this document.

[0030] The above-described aspects and features of the invention can be combined with one another as desired. Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show:

[0031] Figure 1 shows a flow diagram of a method for producing a strained battery cell assembly according to one embodiment;

[0032] Figure 2A is a schematic sectional view of a battery cell assembly during the production of a strained battery cell assembly according to one embodiment;

[0033] Figure 2B is a schematic sectional view of a battery cell assembly during the production of a strained battery cell assembly according to one embodiment;

[0034] Figure 3 shows a schematic sectional view of a battery cell assembly during the production of a strained battery cell assembly according to an embodiment; and

[0035] Figure 4 is a schematic sectional view of a battery cell assembly during the production of a strained battery cell assembly according to a further embodiment.

[0036] The embodiments shown in the figures correspond at least partially, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and for their explanation reference is also made to the description of the other embodiment or figures in order to avoid repetition.

[0037] Figure 1 shows a flowchart of a method for producing a strained battery cell assembly 10 according to one embodiment. Figures 2A, 2B, 3, and 4 show schematic sectional views of a battery cell assembly during production.

[0038] In a step S1, a plurality of battery cells 12 are arranged to form a battery cell assembly. The plurality of battery cells 12 can be, for example, lithium-ion battery cells. The plurality of battery cells 12 can each have contact poles (e.g., a positive pole and a negative pole) (not shown). The plurality of battery cells 12 can each have a pressure relief valve (not shown). The respective pressure relief valves can be designed, for example, in the form of a predetermined breaking point and / or material weakening in a housing of the respective battery cells. The respective predetermined breaking points or material weakenings can open automatically when a pressure threshold value is exceeded inside the respective battery cells. The plurality of battery cells 12 can be prismatic battery cells, round cells, and / or pouch cells.

[0039] Preferably, the plurality of battery cells 12 that are arranged to form the battery cell assembly are all of identical design. For example, the plurality of battery cells 12 can be exclusively prismatic battery cells 12. Furthermore, the plurality of battery cells 12 should preferably all be oriented identically. For example, the contact poles of the plurality of battery cells 12 can each be oriented upwards. Additionally or alternatively, the respective predetermined breaking points or material weakenings can all be oriented upwards. Alternatively, the contact poles and / or the predetermined breaking points or material weakenings of the plurality of battery cells 12 can each also be oriented downwards. In the case of round cells, furthermore, for example, one contact pole of the plurality of battery cells 12 can be oriented upwards and one contact pole downwards.

[0040] In the battery cell assembly, the plurality of battery cells 12 can be arranged in a plane, particularly preferably in a row next to one another or in a grid. The battery cell assembly can, for example, be a battery cell stack (cf. Figures 2A, 2B and 3). For example, the plurality of battery cells 12 in the battery cell stack can be stacked along a stacking direction. The stacking direction can, for example, be horizontally oriented. The battery cell assembly or the battery cell stack can, for example, comprise at least ten, preferably at least fifteen, particularly preferably at least sixteen battery cells 12. Furthermore, the battery cell assembly can comprise a plurality of groups or subunits (cf. Figure 4). Accordingly, when arranging the plurality of battery cells 12 to form the battery cell assembly, the plurality of battery cells 12 can be arranged in a plurality of groups. For example, the plurality of battery cells 12 can be arranged in the form of a plurality of (e.g.three) battery cell stacks are arranged. Preferably, the plurality of battery cell stacks are arranged spaced apart from one another and / or offset parallel to one another.

[0041] When arranging the plurality of battery cells 12 to form the battery cell assembly in step S1, at least one gap filler 14 (e.g., an elastomer mat or a gap pad) can furthermore be positioned between two of the plurality of battery cells 12. The at least one gap filler 14 can, for example, each rest against a side surface of the two battery cells 12. Preferably, the at least one gap filler 14 has a plurality of gap fillers 14. Each of the plurality of gap fillers 14 can be positioned between two of the battery cells 12. Accordingly, the battery cell assembly can have an alternating sequence of battery cells 12 and gap fillers 14. The at least one gap filler 14 or the plurality of gap fillers 14 can serve to improve a thermal coupling between the battery cells 12. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one gap filler 14 orThe plurality of gap fillers 14 serve to relieve pressure in the event of swelling-induced expansion of the battery cells 12. The at least one gap filler 14 can thus assume a lead for swelling of the battery cells 12. For example, the at least one gap filler 14 can be deformable (e.g., reversibly) when pressurized. The gap filler can be a (e.g., elastic) mat (e.g., elastomer mat) and / or a (e.g., elastic) cushion (e.g., elastomer cushion). The gap filler can also consist of a TIM material (Thermal Interface Material). Furthermore, the at least one gap filler 14 can serve as propagation protection in the event of thermal runaway of one of the battery cells 12.

[0042] When arranging the plurality of battery cells 12 to form the battery cell assembly in step S1, at least one end plate 16 can furthermore be positioned on a side surface of one of the plurality of battery cells 12. The at least one end plate 16 preferably has two end plates 16. The two end plates 16 can each be arranged on opposite side surfaces (e.g. end faces of the battery cell stack). The two end plates can thus each delimit the battery cell assembly at the end faces. The end plates can be arranged and / or designed to absorb a pressure application (e.g. caused by swelling of the battery cells 12 of the battery cell assembly). The term “swelling” can preferably refer to an (irreversible) increase in the battery cell volume of the battery cells 12 with an increasing number of charging and discharging cycles. However, the battery cell assembly preferably does not have any clamping elements connecting the end plates 16, such as, for example,B. side plates, tie rods, etc.

[0043] In a step S2, the battery cell assembly is clamped by means of at least one pressure stamp 22 of a clamping device (e.g., a press, not shown). The clamping can comprise clamping, pressurizing, and / or pressing the battery cell assembly. The clamping can be automated and / or mechanical. The clamping can take place exclusively along one direction (e.g., a longitudinal direction). For example, the clamping can take place (e.g., exclusively) along the stacking direction. The battery cells 12 are preferably clamped such that there is essentially no empty space or gap between the battery cells 12.

[0044] Furthermore, it is provided that during clamping of the battery cell assembly, the at least one pressure stamp 22 presses against the battery cell assembly (see, for example, Figure 2A). The at least one pressure stamp 22 can be movable (e.g., displaceable and / or slidable), for example, by means of a linear drive of the clamping device. The at least one pressure stamp 22 can be driven mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically, and / or electrically. The at least one pressure stamp 22 can comprise a piston-cylinder unit. The at least one pressure stamp 22 can be cylindrical. The at least one pressure stamp 22 can be designed as a clamping jaw and / or clamping arm. During clamping, the at least one pressure stamp 22 can bear directly against one of the plurality of battery cells 12 of the battery cell assembly. Alternatively, the at least one pressure stamp 22 can bear against the at least one end plate 16 during clamping.In a preferred embodiment, the at least one pressure stamp 22 has at least two pressure stamps 22. During clamping of the battery cell assembly, the at least two pressure stamps 22 preferably press against the battery cell assembly on opposite sides. For example, one of the at least two pressure stamps 22 can press against the battery cell assembly from the left during clamping, while a second of the at least two pressure stamps 22 presses against the battery cell assembly from the right. The at least two pressure stamps 22 can be oriented coaxially and / or parallel to one another. In the event that the battery cell assembly comprises a plurality of groups, it can preferably be provided that the at least one pressure stamp 22 comprises a plurality of pressure stamps 22, each of which is assigned to at least one of the groups (see Figure 4).For example, in the case where the battery cell assembly comprises three battery cell stacks, the at least one pressure stamp 22 may comprise six pressure stamps 22, two of which clamp each of the three battery cell stacks.

[0045] In a step S3, a curable mass 2 is applied to the clamped battery cell assembly 10. The curable mass 2 can be, for example, a plastic material and / or a synthetic resin material (e.g., epoxy resin material) and / or a foam material (e.g., polyurethane foam material). The curable mass 2 should preferably be electrically weakly conductive or non-conductive. The curable mass 2 can be a one-component or two-component system. The curable mass 2 can be in liquid or pasty form upon application. The curable mass 2 can be flowable upon application. The curable mass 2 can be reaction-curing, cold-curing, thermally curing, and / or moisture-curing. The curable mass 2 can be designed to form a (solid) molded body after curing or hardening. The curable mass 2 can be, for example, a casting compound, a varnish and / or an adhesive and / or a foam.Accordingly, the application may comprise pouring, spraying and / or foaming of the curable mass 2.

[0046] When the curable mass 2 is applied to the strained battery cell assembly 10 in step S3, the strained battery cell assembly 10 can be surrounded by a filling mold 6 (cf. Figure 2A or 4). Accordingly, the method can comprise surrounding the battery cell assembly or the strained battery cell assembly 10 with the filling mold 6. Furthermore, the method can also comprise inserting the battery cell assembly or the strained battery cell assembly 10 into the filling mold 6. The filling mold 6 can be one-piece or multi-piece. The filling mold 6 can be a housing, which preferably remains on the strained battery cell assembly 10. The housing can also be a housing section to which, for example, further housing components can be attached. A temperature control device (e.g. in the form of a cooling line and / or a cooling plate) can be integrated on the housing (e.g. in a wall of the housing). The housing or the filling mold 6 can furthermore have mounting points, e.g. B.for later installation.

[0047] The filling mold 6 can, at least in sections, delimit a space for receiving the curable mass 2. The filling mold 6 can have at least one opening through which the at least one pressure stamp 22 can extend. The filling mold 6 can preferably be formed from a (e.g., rectangular) filling frame. The filling mold 6 can thus have a substantially frame-shaped filling mold outer wall. In one exemplary embodiment, the filling mold outer wall can be substantially polygonal frame-shaped (e.g., rectangular frame-shaped) and / or completely circumferential. Preferably, when applying the curable mass 2 to the clamped battery cell assembly 10, the clamped battery cell assembly 10 can be surrounded by a filling mold 6 such that an intermediate space (e.g., frame-shaped) exists between the clamped battery cell assembly 10 and the filling mold 6, into which intermediate space the curable mass 2 is introduced.For example, the curable mass 2 can be introduced into the gap using one or more lances. The application or introduction can include, for example, pouring and / or injecting the curable mass 2 into the gap and / or foaming the gap with the curable mass 2.

[0048] Furthermore, during the application of the curable mass 2 to the clamped battery cell assembly 10 in step S3, the clamped battery cell assembly 10 can rest or be placed on a base 4 (e.g., a support plate) (see Figure 2A or 2B). Thus, during the application of the curable mass 2 to the clamped battery cell assembly 10, the clamped battery cell assembly 10 can rest with an underside of the clamped battery cell assembly 10 against the base 4. Accordingly, the method can comprise placing the battery cell assembly or the clamped battery cell assembly 10 onto the base 4. The base 4 can delimit the aforementioned space between the filling mold 6 and the clamped battery cell assembly 10 at the bottom. The base 4 is preferably flat or planar. For example, the base 4 can be in the form of a plate.The base 4 can have a support surface for placing the clamped battery cell assembly 10. The support surface can be configured to conform to a side surface (e.g., underside) of the clamped battery cell assembly 10. Preferably, when applying the curable compound 2 to the clamped battery cell assembly 10, the clamped battery cell assembly 10 can rest or be placed on a base 4 in such a way that the curable compound 2 cannot penetrate between the base 4 and the clamped battery cell assembly 10.

[0049] When applying the curable mass 2 to the clamped battery cell assembly 10 in step S3, the curable mass 2 cannot be applied to a top side and / or a bottom side of the clamped battery cell assembly 10 (cf. Figures 2A and 2B). While application to the bottom side can be prevented, for example, via the aforementioned base 4, application to the top side can be achieved, for example, by timely completing or stopping the application (e.g., pouring or injecting). Accordingly, when applying the curable mass 2 to the clamped battery cell assembly 10, the curable mass 2 can be applied exclusively to side surfaces of the clamped battery cell assembly 10. The side surfaces are preferably oriented substantially vertically or have a substantially horizontal surface normal.The curable mass 2 can also be applied over the entire height of the battery cells 12. After application, the curable mass can thus extend, for example, from a lower edge (e.g., on the bottom side) of the respective battery cells 12 to an upper edge (e.g., on the cover side) of the respective battery cells 12.

[0050] Furthermore, as can be seen, for example, from Figures 3 and 4, when applying the curable mass 2 to the clamped battery cell assembly 10 in step S3, the curable mass 2 can be applied circumferentially, preferably exclusively circumferentially. Thus, after application, the clamped battery cell assembly 10 can be surrounded by a preferably closed frame made of the curable mass 2. The frame made of the curable mass 2 can essentially be polygonal frame-shaped (e.g., rectangular frame-shaped) and / or completely circumferential. The curable mass 2 can be applied such that the curable mass 2 surrounds the clamped battery cell assembly 10 circumferentially, preferably completely.

[0051] Furthermore, when applying the curable mass 2 to the strained battery cell assembly 10 in step S3, the curable mass 2 can also be applied to at least one electrical line (e.g., a cable). The at least one electrical line can be assigned to the strained battery cell assembly 10. For example, the at least one electrical line can serve to connect the battery cells 12 of the strained battery cell assembly 10 to further components (e.g., a consumer and / or a distributor). The at least one electrical line can be, for example, HV or LV cabling. When applying the curable mass 2, the at least one electrical line can be at least partially embedded in the curable mass 2 or at least partially surrounded by the curable mass 2.

[0052] As mentioned above, it is provided that the application of the curable mass 2 to the clamped battery cell assembly 10 preferably takes place while the latter is / is being clamped or while the latter is located in the clamping device. Thus, the application of the curable mass 2 to the clamped battery cell assembly 10 preferably takes place while the at least one pressure stamp 22 is pressing against the battery cell assembly. Accordingly, when applying the curable mass 2 to the clamped battery cell assembly 10, the curable mass 2 can additionally be applied to a section of the at least one pressure stamp 22 (cf. Figures 2A and 4). For example, the curable mass 2 can be applied to a section of the at least one pressure stamp 22 located within the filling mold 6.Accordingly, the portion of the at least one pressure stamp 22 can be embedded at least partially in the curable mass 2 after the application of the curable mass 2. Conversely, the at least one pressure stamp 22 can prevent the curable mass 2 from being applied or introduced into a spatial area occupied by the at least one pressure stamp 22 (e.g., within the filling mold 6).

[0053] In an optional step S4, the curable mass 2 can also be hardened (e.g., cured). Depending on the curable mass 2 used, the hardening can occur, for example, by cooling, heating, and / or by a (chemical) curing reaction (e.g., a crosslinking reaction). A curing reaction can occur, for example, by mixing the curable mass 2 (e.g., a reactive resin) with a hardener (e.g., an amine hardener), whereby the two components react to form a (e.g., thermosetting) plastic. The mixing of the two components can, for example, also occur during application. Through hardening, or curing, the curable mass 2 can transition to a solid state or form a (solid) molded body. Preferably, the clamping by means of the at least one pressure stamp 22 is maintained until the curable mass 2 has hardened.This allows the clamped battery cell assembly 10 to be secured in the clamped state without the need for additional mechanical aids, such as a clamping frame or the like. Accordingly, the battery cell assembly or the clamped battery cell assembly 10 can be designed without a metallic holding or clamping frame.

[0054] In a further optional step S5, the at least one pressure stamp 22 can then be released from the battery cell assembly after the curable compound 2 has hardened (see Figure 2B). The release can occur, for example, by moving back (e.g., retracting) the at least one pressure stamp 22 from the clamped battery cell assembly 10. This can be done, for example, by means of a linear drive of the clamping device. After the release of the at least one pressure stamp 22, the cured, clamped battery cell assembly 10 can also be removed from the clamping device. The battery cell assembly can then be attached, for example, to a temperature control plate. Furthermore, the battery cell assembly can then be arranged in a battery and / or a vehicle. The clamped battery cell assembly can be used in a "cell-to-module," a "cell-to-layer," or a "cell-to-vehicle" approach.

[0055] Furthermore, as shown by way of example in Figure 2B, at least one recess 8 can be created or remain in the hardened mass by releasing the at least one pressure stamp 22. The at least one recess 8 can, for example, be a hole, a gap and / or a depression in the hardened mass. The at least one recess 8 can, in particular, result from the at least one pressure stamp 22 blocking the application or introduction of the hardenable mass 2 into a spatial region occupied by the at least one pressure stamp 22 (e.g., within the filling mold 6). Upon release (e.g., withdrawal) of the at least one pressure stamp 22, this spatial region, in which the at least one pressure stamp 22 was previously received, can thus form the corresponding at least one recess 8 in the hardened mass.In this case, it can preferably be provided that the method further comprises closing the at least one recess 8 with at least one filling 18 (e.g., with a filling compound and / or with a plug) (see Figure 3). The at least one filling 18 can be introduced into the at least one recess 8 (e.g., poured, injected, foamed, and / or inserted), preferably in such a way that the at least one filling 18 is flush with the hardened compound on the outside.

[0056] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. Consequently, the invention is not intended to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but is intended to include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims, independent of the referenced claims. List of Reference Symbols

[0057] 2 Curable mass

[0058] 4 Base

[0059] 6 Filling form 8 Recess

[0060] 10 strained battery cell assembly

[0061] 12 battery cells

[0062] 14 gap fillers

[0063] 16 End plate 18 Filling

[0064] 22 Printing stamp H Vertical axis L Longitudinal axis Q Transverse axis

Claims

Patent claims 1. Method for producing a strained battery cell assembly (10), comprising: - Arranging several battery cells (12) to form a battery cell assembly, preferably a battery cell stack; - Clamping the battery cell assembly by means of at least one, preferably cylindrical, pressure plunger (22) of a clamping device, wherein the at least one pressure plunger (22) presses against the battery cell assembly when clamping the battery cell assembly; and - Applying a hardenable mass (2) to the strained battery cell assembly (10).

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein: the at least one pressure stamp (22) has at least two, preferably cylindrical, pressure stamps (22), wherein preferably the at least two pressure stamps (22) press against the battery cell assembly on opposite sides when clamping the battery cell assembly.

3. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: the application comprises pouring, spraying and / or foaming the curable mass (2).

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: when applying the curable mass (2) to the strained battery cell assembly (10), the strained battery cell assembly (10) rests on a, preferably flat, base (4), preferably in such a way that the curable mass (2) cannot penetrate between the base (4) and the strained battery cell assembly (10).

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: when applying the curable mass (2) to the strained battery cell assembly (10), the strained battery cell assembly (10) is surrounded by a filling form (6), preferably a filling frame, preferably such that there is a space between the strained battery cell assembly (10) and the filling form (6) into which the curable mass (2) is introduced. A method according to claim 5, wherein: the filling mold (6) has at least one opening through which the at least one pressure die (22) extends. A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: the multiple battery cells (12) of the battery cell assembly each have contact poles; and when applying the curable mass (2) to the clamped battery cell assembly (10), the contact poles of the multiple battery cells (12) are oriented upwards and / or downwards.A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when applying the curable mass (2) to the clamped battery cell assembly (10), the curable mass (2) is: a) applied over the entire height of the battery cells (12); and / or b) applied circumferentially, preferably exclusively circumferentially; and / or c) applied to side surfaces, preferably exclusively to side surfaces, of the clamped battery cell assembly (10); and / or d) not applied to a top and / or a bottom surface of the clamped battery cell assembly (10). A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: when applying the curable mass (2) to the clamped battery cell assembly (10), the curable mass (2) is additionally applied to a section of the at least one die (22). A method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - Hardening of the curable mass (2); and - Releasing at least one pressure stamp (22) from the battery cell assembly (10) after the curable mass (2) has hardened. The method of claim 10, if referring back to claim 9, wherein: releasing at least one pressure stamp (22) creates at least one recess (8) in the hardened mass (2); and The method further comprises closing the at least one recess (8) with at least one filling (18), preferably with at least one filling material and / or with at least one plug.

12. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein when arranging the multiple battery cells (12) to form the battery cell assembly: a) at least one gap filler (14), preferably an elastomer mat, is positioned between two of the multiple battery cells (12); and / or b) at least one end plate (16) is positioned on a side surface of one of the multiple battery cells (12).

13. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein when arranging the multiple battery cells (12) to form the battery cell assembly: the multiple battery cells (12) are arranged in several, preferably spaced-apart, groups.

14. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the curable mass (2) is a plastic material and / or a synthetic resin material, preferably an epoxy resin material, and / or a foam material, preferably a polyurethane foam material.

15. Strained battery cell assembly (10) manufactured according to a method according to one of the preceding claims.

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