Temperature-control and degassing assembly for energy storage cells, and energy store

Abstract

The invention relates to a temperature-control and degassing assembly for energy storage cells (2a, 2b, 2z) of an energy store (3), in particular of an energy store for a vehicle, comprising: a support structure (13) having at least one temperature-control channel (131) for guiding a fluid for controlling the temperature of the energy store (3), wherein the support structure (13) has a first side (137) closer to the energy store (3) and a second side (138) remote from the energy store (3), wherein the support structure (13) comprises at least one degassing channel (132) integrated into the support structure for discharging gases emerging from the energy storage cells (2).

Description

[0001] Tempering and degassing arrangement for energy storage cells and energy storage

[0002] The present invention relates, on the one hand, to a novel temperature control and degassing arrangement for energy storage cells of an energy storage device according to the preamble of claim 1 and, on the other hand, to an energy storage device, in particular an energy storage device for the automotive sector, according to the preamble of claim 17 using the novel cell contacting system.

[0003] Technological background

[0004] A central aspect of the development of electrically powered means of transport, such as electric vehicles, is the energy storage system. This requires energy storage systems with high power and energy density. Energy storage systems typically consist of a plurality of individual energy storage cells (e.g., lithium-ion battery cells) that are electrically interconnected. Energy storage systems generally require temperature management to ensure operation within an optimized temperature range. Energy storage cells typically have a narrow operating temperature range (e.g., between +15°C and +45°C). The functional safety, service life, and cycle stability of the energy storage cell, and thus the functional safety of the entire energy storage system, depend significantly on the energy storage cell remaining within this range. If the temperature exceeds a critical level, a condition known as "thermal runaway" occurs.Thermal runaway sets off an unstoppable chain reaction. The temperature rises dramatically within milliseconds, and the energy stored in the energy storage cell is suddenly released. This can result in temperatures exceeding 1000°C. The contents of the energy storage device become gaseous, resulting in a fire that is difficult to extinguish using conventional means. The danger of thermal runaway begins at a certain temperature (e.g., 60°C) and becomes extremely critical above a higher temperature threshold (e.g., 100°C). Consequently, energy storage systems, particularly those for electric vehicles, use an energy storage management system that not only controls and regulates the charging and discharging behavior of the energy storage cells, but also implements temperature management and emergency management measures in the event of a thermal runaway.To ensure the targeted release of gases in the event of thermal runaway, the gas-tight sealed energy storage cells can be equipped with vents. These vents can, for example, be designed as predetermined breaking points that allow gases to escape from the interior of the energy storage cell to the environment at a certain internal pressure. The escaping gases may contain electrolytes that can react with water to form hydrofluoric acid. To reduce the danger to surrounding components and / or people, such gases must be vented in a controlled and targeted manner.

[0005] To electrically connect the energy storage cells, energy storage devices have so-called cell connectors which, depending on the circuit type, electrically connect two or more poles of two or more energy storage cells. In a series connection, for example, the anode of one energy storage cell is connected to the cathode of another energy storage cell. In order to monitor and regulate the charge level of each energy storage cell, each cell connector can be electrically connected to the control and / or regulation electronics of the energy storage device. This allows the cell voltage of each individual energy storage cell to be measured and the charge level of the respective energy storage cell to be derived from the cell voltage. Furthermore, sensors, e.g. temperature sensors for monitoring the surface temperature of the energy storage cells, can also be provided and connected to the control and / or regulation electronics.In previous solutions, the control and / or regulation electronics are located in a separate module. This represents the state of the art.

[0006] DE 10 2007 063 178 A1 discloses a battery with a heat-conducting plate for controlling the temperature of the battery. The battery comprises a plurality of interconnected individual cells. The heat-conducting plate has holes and / or cutouts in the area of ​​the poles of the individual cells, through which the poles of the individual cells protrude or protrude. The heat-conducting plate is arranged between the individual cells and contact elements placed on the poles. Electrical cell connectors arranged pole by pole and / or a cell connector board are provided as contact elements for electrically connecting the poles of the individual cells. Furthermore, elastic elements and / or contact elements can be located on the top side of the heat-conducting plate. This sequence of individual layers must be clamped to the individual cells using screws during assembly. Assembly is therefore complex.

[0007] DE 10 2009 046 385 A1 discloses a battery with a degassing system. The degassing system is located on the side opposite the battery cell poles. There, a dedicated base plate with passages for degassing openings and a collecting basin for collecting the gases from the battery cells is located.

[0008] DE 10 2012 219 784 A1 discloses a battery module comprising a gas channel, a circuit board, and a battery module housing accommodating a plurality of battery cells. The gas channel is formed by a U-shaped profile with through-openings to the vents of the battery cells, as well as a circuit board that closes the U-shaped profile on the side facing away from the vents. The circuit board thus forms a wall of the gas channel and can come into direct contact with the gas when gas escapes from a gas outlet opening of a battery cell. During assembly, the circuit board is attached directly to the busbars. The U-shaped profile is not directly connected to the busbars. The disadvantage of this arrangement is that escaping gas can destroy the unprotected circuit board. Control and / or regulation of the battery module is no longer guaranteed in this case.Furthermore, no active temperature control of the battery cell surface or the cell connectors is provided.

[0009] EP 3 316 384 A1 discloses a circuit board arrangement according to the preamble of claim 1. A rigid circuit board is provided for control and / or regulation electronics, to which cell connectors for connecting the energy storage cells are directly applied in a flat manner. This direct connection of the cell connectors to the control and / or regulation electronics results in direct heat transfer from the electrical connections of the energy storage cells to the control and / or regulation electronics. Such an arrangement leads to unavoidable measurement deviations in voltage and temperature measurements. Furthermore, a C-shaped, flexible circuit board carrying a temperature sensor element is fixed to the rigid circuit board. The flexible circuit board extends through a slot-shaped through-opening in the rigid circuit board. The design is complex and costly, both in terms of the manufacture of the individual components and the final assembly.

[0010] Object of the present invention

[0011] The object of the present invention is to provide a novel temperature control and degassing arrangement for energy storage cells, which reduces assembly effort and requires little installation space.

[0012] The above object is achieved by the entire teaching of claim 1 and claim 17. Expedient embodiments of the invention are claimed in the subclaims. According to the invention, the support structure comprises at least one degassing channel integrated into the support structure for discharging gases escaping from the energy storage cells. The at least one degassing channel and the at least one temperature control channel thus form an integral component of the support structure and thus an integrated, compact, scalable cell contacting system. Because both the at least one temperature control channel and the degassing channel are integral components of the support structure, the assembly effort required to complete an energy storage device can be significantly reduced. Furthermore, the functional reliability of the energy storage device is increased, and the required installation space is reduced.The venting channel enables the targeted removal of hot gases during thermal runaway of the energy storage device. Furthermore, the support structure offers the possibility of attaching additional functional components (such as a circuit board or printed circuit board) that carry the control and regulation electronics of the energy storage device or the individual energy storage cells to the rear of the venting channel. Compared to conventional designs, the number of components required can be reduced.

[0013] Advantageously, the at least one degassing channel and the at least one temperature control channel are each molded into the support structure. This allows the support structure to be designed as a single component and can be produced in a single manufacturing step. Furthermore, the one-piece design, with no connection points between the various channels, achieves greater functional reliability.

[0014] The degassing channel can expediently be designed to be open on the first side of the support structure. The degassing channel is thus formed as a recess in the support structure that is open on one side, wherein in the assembled state the top side of the energy storage device or its energy storage cells lies opposite the degassing channel. During degassing, escaping gases can thus be collected and discharged in the degassing channel with a simple design of the support structure without additional components. In the area of ​​the degassing channel, the energy storage cells have corresponding predetermined breaking points that ensure that in the event of thermal runaway, gases escape at these specific points and can be discharged via the degassing channel. The surface of the energy storage cells thus delimits the degassing channel on the side of the degassing channel opposite the support structure.The support structure therefore does not require any openings that are locally assigned to the predetermined breaking points.

[0015] The support structure expediently has a wall that defines the degassing channel, the side of which opposite the degassing channel serves as a mounting base for additional components. The aforementioned side of the wall can thus be used for mounting additional components of the cell contact system, for example, for mounting a circuit board or printed circuit containing the control and / or regulation electronics, and / or for mounting sensor arrangements, for example, sensor arrangements for determining the temperature of the energy storage device. The wall therefore fulfills a dual function. The wall, for example, protects the circuit board or printed circuit from thermal and / or chemical influences.

[0016] Preferably, the wall extends between two temperature control channels.

[0017] In an advantageous embodiment, the wall has an offset that forms a mounting recess. The other components of the cell contact system can thus be recessed into the mounting recess, protecting them. At the same time, this reduces the installation space and increases the mechanical stability of the support structure.

[0018] The support structure can expediently have, preferably in the area of ​​the mounting recess, fastening and / or centering means and / or through-holes and / or spacers for a circuit board or printed circuit. These serve to facilitate assembly, increase the security of the assembled arrangement, and ensure that the control and / or regulation electronics or their circuit boards are spaced apart from the wall on their underside. According to an advantageous embodiment, the inside of the degassing channel has a protective layer, in particular against heat and / or abrasive media and / or chemical influences (e.g., acids). In addition, the underside of the respective temperature control channel can also have a protective layer.

[0019] The protective layer can be an applied coating (e.g. a liquid curable coating, e.g. paints with the addition of ceramic particles, foamed and cured coating or e.g. a powder coating) or a layer placed on and / or bonded to the wall or the relevant wall section (e.g. a mica plate, a ceramic fiber, a glass fiber, a carbon mat or a cork plate).

[0020] The at least one temperature control channel and temperature control lines that connect to the at least one temperature control channel are preferably designed to be sealed at all interfaces.

[0021] The wall expediently extends between two or at least two temperature control channels. The temperature control channels are preferably located in the outer region of the support structure.

[0022] The support structure also allows for a third, or a third and fourth, cooling channel to be located between two edge-side cooling channels. This advantageously allows for additional cooling of the circuit board located on the top side of the support structure.

[0023] The support structure allows the cell connectors and the support structure to be connected to form a single, mountable assembly. The cell connectors serve to establish an electrical connection between the individual energy storage cells and are therefore fixed to their pole contacts, e.g., welded or screwed. By connecting the cell connectors and the support structure to form a single, mountable assembly, a prefabricated assembly can be created.

[0024] By mounting the cell connectors on the energy storage cells, the support structure with the degassing channel, the temperature control channels, and the circuit board can be assembled in a single step. The cell contact system can thus be advantageously kept as a prefabricated assembly.

[0025] Furthermore, the at least one temperature control channel can have through-openings arranged laterally to its longitudinal axis. These can serve to accommodate and / or fix the cell connectors and / or overmolded cooling geometries of the cell connectors.

[0026] Because the support structure is designed as a molded part, preferably as an injection-molded part or as an extruded part, the required geometries can be easily implemented.

[0027] Plastic offers high corrosion resistance, thermal insulation, and electrical insulation while remaining lightweight. Furthermore, an electrically conductive fluid can be used in the temperature control channels. Aluminum or an aluminum alloy offers the advantage of increased mechanical strength. However, when using aluminum or an aluminum alloy, a non-electrically conductive fluid must be used for temperature control.

[0028] For example, the support structure is a profile structure, preferably a hollow profile structure.

[0029] The present invention further relates to an energy storage device according to the preamble of claim 17. According to the invention, the energy storage device comprises a cell contacting system according to at least one of claims 1 to 16.

[0030] Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an energy storage device with a cell contacting system;

[0031] Fig. 2 is a perspective longitudinal sectional view of the embodiment of the energy storage device from Fig. 1 along the section line AA;

[0032] Fig. 3 is a front view of the embodiment of the cell contacting system from Fig. 1;

[0033] Fig. 4a is a perspective view of the support structure of the cell contacting system from Fig. 1;

[0034] Fig. 4b is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a support structure;

[0035] Fig. 4c is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a support structure;

[0036] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the cell contacting system of Fig. 1 as a mountable assembly;

[0037] Fig. 6a is a perspective view of the circuit board of the cell contacting system from Fig. 1 comprising the control and regulation electronics of the energy storage cells or the energy storage device with temperature sensor arrangements fixed thereto;

[0038] Fig. 6b is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a circuit board of the cell contacting system with temperature sensor arrangements fixed thereto;

[0039] Fig. 7a is a perspective view of a temperature sensor arrangement of the cell contacting system from Fig. 1; Fig. 7b is a sectional view of the temperature sensor arrangement from Fig. 7a;

[0040] Fig. 8a is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a temperature sensor arrangement for a cell contacting system;

[0041] Fig. 8b is a sectional view of the temperature sensor arrangement from Fig. 8a;

[0042] Fig. 9a is a perspective detailed view of the temperature sensor arrangement from Fig. 7a or 7b in the assembled state;

[0043] Fig. 9b is a perspective detailed view of the temperature sensor arrangement from Fig. 7b in the assembled state;

[0044] Fig. 10a is a perspective view of the circuit board arrangement comprising circuit board and additional circuit board of the cell contacting system from Fig. 1;

[0045] Fig. 10b is a perspective view of the circuit board arrangement comprising circuit board and additional circuit board of the cell contacting system from Fig. 1;

[0046] Fig. 11a is a plan view of the cell contacting system from Fig. 1, omitting the support structure;

[0047] Fig. 11b is a perspective view of the cell contacting system of Fig. 1, omitting the support structure;

[0048] Fig. 12a is a perspective partial view of the circuit board arrangement from Fig. 1 in the area of ​​the spacers;

[0049] Fig. 12b is a perspective partial view of the circuit board arrangement from Fig. 1 in the area of ​​the connection between the circuit board and the additional circuit board;

[0050] Fig. 12c is a partial perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the circuit board arrangement in the area of ​​the connection between the circuit board and the additional circuit board; Fig. 13a is a detailed perspective view of a cell connector from Fig. 1;

[0051] Fig. 13b is a perspective detailed view of a connection-side cell connector from Fig. 1;

[0052] Fig. 14a is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a temperature control structure of a cell connector;

[0053] Fig. 14b is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a temperature control structure of a cell connector;

[0054] Fig. 14c is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a temperature control structure of a cell connector;

[0055] Fig. 14d is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a temperature control structure of a cell connector;

[0056] Fig. 15a is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a cell connector;

[0057] Fig. 15b is a side view of the cell connector according to Fig. 15a;

[0058] Fig. 16a is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a cell connector;

[0059] Fig. 16b is a side sectional view of the cell connector of Fig. 16a;

[0060] Fig. 17a is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a cell connector; and

[0061] Fig. 17b shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a cell connector without a temperature control structure. Reference numeral 3 in Fig. 1 denotes an energy storage device 3 in its entirety. This is, in particular, a battery, e.g., for an electric vehicle with an electric drive. The energy storage device 3 has a plurality of energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z arranged in series. Reference numeral 1 denotes an example of a cell contacting system designed to electrically connect the individual energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z to one another.

[0062] The energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z each have two pole contacts 22a, 22b (of which only one pole contact 22a is visible in Fig. 2), namely a pole contact 22a for an anode and a pole contact 22b for a cathode. The pole contacts 22a, 22b can have a substantially flat surface or be formed as small plates.

[0063] The cell contacting system 1 further comprises a support structure 13 and cell connectors 11a, 11b attached to the support structure 13, which serve to electrically contact and connect the individual energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z. Furthermore, control and / or regulation electronics 16 are positioned on the support structure 13 and are electrically connected to the cell connectors 11a, 11b via connecting elements 15. The control and / or regulation electronics 16 comprises a circuit board 161a equipped with corresponding electronic components 162, which is connected to the support structure 13.

[0064] Since the cell connectors 11a, 11b are connected to the cell contacting system 1, the complete cell contacting system 1 can be attached to the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z of the energy storage device 3 via the cell connectors 11a, 11b. For this purpose, the cell connectors 11a, 11b can be welded, for example, to the pole contacts 22a, 22b. The cell contacting system 1 can thus be kept as an assembled assembly and mounted on the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z as a single unit in a single work step within an automated production line. The cell contacting system 1 comprises temperature control channels 131, described in more detail below, and a degassing channel 132, which are integrated into the support structure 13 according to the invention. The temperature control channels 131 serve to pass a gaseous or liquid fluid (not shown in the figures) through the energy storage device 3 to control the temperature of the latter.The venting channel 132 serves to control the discharge of gases released in the event of a so-called "thermal runaway" of the energy storage device 3. A venting opening 21 is shown in Fig. 2. It opens into the venting channel 132. The venting opening 21 can be designed, for example, as a predetermined breaking point, so that in the event of a "thermal runaway," the gases generated inside the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z can escape at this point.

[0065] In the exemplary embodiment, fourteen energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z are shown by way of example, which are electrically connected to one another in a series circuit by the cell contacting system 1. For this purpose, the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z are each arranged rotated relative to one another, so that the pole contact 22a of the anode of the energy storage cell 2a is opposite the pole contact 22b of the cathode of the adjacent energy storage cell 2b, or the pole contact 22b of the cathode of the energy storage cell 2b is opposite the pole contact 22a of the anode of the adjacent energy storage cell 2a. The pole contact 22b of the cathode of the first energy storage cell 2a is connected to the terminal cell connector 11b. The pole contact 22a of the anode of the first energy storage cell 2a is connected via the cell connector 11a to the pole contact 22b of the cathode of the adjacent, second energy storage cell 2b.The pole contact 22a of the anode of the second energy storage cell 2b is in turn connected via a cell connector 11a to the pole contact 22b of the cathode of the third energy storage cell, etc. The pole contact 22a of the anode of the last energy storage cell 2z is connected to the cell connector 11b. The cell connectors 11b are provided to electrically connect the energy storage device 3 to an electrical load (not shown), e.g., the electric motor of an electric vehicle. The two cell connectors 11b thus form the energy storage connections, i.e., the cathode and anode of the entire energy storage device 3. In alternative embodiments of an energy storage device 3, a different number of energy storage cells can also be provided and / or the energy storage cells can be connected in parallel by the cell contacting system 1.For this purpose, the cell connectors 11a, 11b can, for example, connect the electrical connections 22a of the anodes of two or more energy storage cells or the electrical connections 22b of the cathodes of two or more energy storage cells. The energy storage cells can also be arranged in a row with the same orientation, i.e., not rotated, so that the electrical connections of the cathodes of the energy storage cells of the energy storage device 3 are arranged along a first line and the electrical connections of the anodes of the energy storage cells are arranged along a second line running parallel to the first line.

[0066] Fig. 3 shows the cell contacting system 1 in a front view. The support structure 13 has a first side 137 facing the energy storage device 3 or the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z, which serves as the mounting side on the energy storage device 3 or the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z (not shown in Fig. 3), as well as a second side 138 facing away from the energy storage device 3 or the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z. Furthermore, the support structure 1 has two lateral temperature control channels 131 located in the region of the cell connectors. The degassing channel 132 is located between them. The temperature control channels 131 and the degassing channel 132 are formed into the support structure 1 according to the invention.

[0067] The degassing channel 132 is formed by the lateral, opposing temperature control channels 131 and by a wall 139 that runs between the temperature control channels 131. The degassing channel 132 is open on the first side 137 of the support structure 13 in the direction of the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z. As a result, when the cell contacting system 1 is assembled, gases from the degassing openings 21 of the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z can enter the degassing channel 132 and be discharged from there in a controlled manner. This increases the protection of vehicle occupants. The support structure 13 is, as can be seen from Fig. 4a, designed as a molded part, in particular as an injection-molded part or extruded part, preferably in particular as a plastic injection-molded part or a plastic extruded part. The support structure 13 can be designed as a profile structure, preferably as a hollow profile structure.This makes it possible to create a cell contact system 1 with a comparatively low weight.

[0068] The support structure 13 is provided in the region of the first side 137 with a protective layer 133 (see Fig. 3), in particular against heat and / or abrasive media and / or chemical influences (e.g., acids). The protective layer 133 can be made of a heat- and / or acid-resistant material. The protective layer 133 can be either an applied coating (e.g., a liquid, curable coating, e.g., a lacquer with the addition of ceramic particles, a foamed and cured coating, or a powder coating) or a layer applied to the wall (e.g., mica plates, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or carbon mats, or cork plates), or a combination thereof. The protective layer can (as is not apparent from the figures) also be provided additionally under the temperature control channels 131a, 131b, if required.

[0069] The temperature control channels 131 are each formed by a hollow chamber. As shown in Fig. 3, the temperature control channels 131 have lateral through-openings 140 into which cell connectors 11a, 11b overmolded with a cooling structure 12 are inserted and secured. The cooling structure 12 can, for example, be glued and / or welded to the support structure 1. The through-opening 140 is thus tightly closed. The cooling structure 12 of the cell connectors 11a, 11b is surrounded by the temperature control fluid in the temperature control channels 131, and they are in thermal contact with the fluid.

[0070] Furthermore, the support structure 13 has a mounting recess 135 on the second side 138 opposite the degassing channel 132. This is formed by an offset of the wall 139. The mounting recess 135 serves for the particularly space-saving positioning of the control and / or regulating electronics 16. Fastening and / or centering means 136 for fastening and / or centering the circuit board of the control and / or regulating electronics 16 can be provided on the mounting base of the mounting recess 139. Spacers 136a can also be provided, which space the underside of the control and / or regulating electronics 16 or its circuit board 161a from the mounting base of the mounting recess 139. The mounting recess 135 enables a flat design of the cell contacting system 1. The offset of the wall 139 forming the mounting recess 135 also serves to increase the mechanical stability of the support structure 13.The offset acts like a bead, i.e., a groove-shaped stiffener, which increases the area moment of inertia of the support structure 13. The support structure 13 can thus, for example, better withstand a pressure increase in the degassing channel 132 that occurs during degassing of the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z. Furthermore, the wall 139 has through-openings 141 for temperature sensor arrangements 17a, 17b and / or for contacting a sensor board 18a, 18b.

[0071] The circuit board 161a, for example, has holes through which the circuit board 161a is placed onto the fastening and / or centering means 136, designed as a "dome" in the exemplary embodiment. The ends of the domes can then be compressed into mushroom heads, thereby securing the circuit board 161a to the support structure 13.

[0072] If necessary, more than two temperature control channels 131 can be formed into the support structure 13. For example, as shown in Fig. 4b, an additional temperature control channel 131 can be located in the center on the underside of the wall 139, whereby the wall 139 between the two outer temperature control channels 131 and thus a circuit board located on the top side can be additionally temperature controlled.

[0073] According to the embodiment according to Fig. 4c, a second tempering channel 131 is provided in each side area.

[0074] Fig. 5 shows the cell contacting system 1 according to the invention as a preassembled assembly comprising the cell connectors 11a, 11b, the temperature control channels 131, the degassing channel 132, and the control and / or regulation electronics 16. The cell contacting system 1 considerably simplifies the production of energy storage devices 3 by allowing only the cell connectors to be mounted on the energy storage cells, e.g., by welding.

[0075] Alternatively, the cell connectors can also be screwed or soldered to the energy storage cells.

[0076] Through-openings 111, for example, through-holes, can be provided on the cell connectors 11a, 11b. These can serve as inspection openings. Furthermore, if necessary, measuring leads can be attached through these through-openings 111 to threaded holes located below the through-openings 111 on the pole contacts 22a, 22b. This allows, for example, the contact between the cell connectors 11a, 11b and the pole contacts 22a, 22b to be tested.

[0077] Alternatively, if necessary, the cell connectors 11a, 11b could also be connected, e.g. screwed, to the pole contacts 22a, 22b via the through-openings 111.

[0078] Figs. 6a and 6b show two exemplary embodiments of temperature sensor assemblies 17a, 17b for detecting the temperature on a top side 23 (not shown) of an energy storage cell 2a, 2b, 2z. In the exemplary embodiments, the temperature sensor assembly 17a is mounted on the circuit board 161a, and the temperature sensor assembly 17b is mounted on the circuit board 161b, each via a snap connection. The circuit board 161b can also be provided for temperature sensor assemblies 17a.

[0079] Figs. 7a and 7b show a perspective view and a sectional view of a first embodiment of the temperature sensor arrangement 17a.

[0080] The temperature sensor arrangement 17a has a flexible sensor board 176a with a sensor element 171a integrated on the sensor board 176a and a housing molded element 172a for mounting on the board 161a, 161b from Fig. 6a, 6b.

[0081] The housing element 172a includes a guide groove 179a for the flexible sensor circuit board 176a and thus serves to position and hold the sensor element 171a. Furthermore, the housing element 172a has a base 178a with connecting means 175a and an elastically deflectable spring arm 177a. The connecting means 175a are designed as a snap connection with two spring-loaded locking arms. They serve to connect to the circuit board 161a from Fig. 6a. Furthermore, steps 178c are provided on the connecting means 175a, which serve as a support against the underside of the circuit board 161a.

[0082] The sensor board 176a has electrical connections 174a, which are electrically connected to the sensor element 171a via conductor tracks not shown.

[0083] In addition, an elastic, thermally conductive contact element 173a is provided on the underside of the temperature sensor arrangement 17a in the region of the sensor element 171a in order to avoid gap formation and to transfer the temperature of the energy storage cells to be detected to the sensor element 171a.

[0084] Fig. 9a shows the temperature sensor arrangement 17a of Figs. 7a and 7b in the assembled state without the support structure 13. The locking arms engage through recesses provided on the circuit board 161a and thus create a mechanical connection with the circuit board 161a. The spring arm presses the sensor element 171a onto the top side 23 of the energy storage cell 2a. The electrical connections 174a extend through the circuit board 161a through a slot-shaped recess 162a and are connected to the circuit board 161a, for example, soldered via soldering pads.

[0085] When assembling the temperature sensor assembly 17a, the housing element 172a can first be connected to the sensor board 161a. The sensor board 176a can then be inserted from the side opposite the housing element 172a through the slot-shaped recess 162a of the board 161a into the guide groove 179a of the housing element 172a. After the sensor board 176a is positioned in the guide groove 179a, the electrical connections 174a of the sensor board 176a can be connected to the board 161a. This facilitates handling and also allows for automated assembly.

[0086] As can be seen from Fig. 3, the temperature sensor arrangement 17a extends through the through-opening 141 (see Fig. 4a) of the support structure 13 and can thus be positioned in the degassing channel 132. The support structure 13 thermally separates the circuit board 161a from the sensor element 171a. As a result, the circuit board 161a remains intact even if the temperature sensor arrangement 17a is thermally destroyed, and the defect in the temperature sensor arrangement 17a, 17b can still be detected by the control and / or regulation electronics 16. The steps 178c are located on the underside of the circuit board 161a.

[0087] The base 178a is intended to cover or close the through-opening 141 of the support structure on its first side 137. This prevents or at least reduces the flow of gases through the through-opening 141.

[0088] Figs. 8a and 8b show a perspective view and a sectional view of a further embodiment of a temperature sensor arrangement 17b.

[0089] The temperature sensor assembly 17b includes a sensor element 171b and a housing molding element 172b. The housing molding element 172b includes a base 178b with connecting means 175b and a step 178d, which have a corresponding structure and the same function as the base 178a, the connecting means 175a, and the step 178c of the temperature sensor assembly 17a according to Figs. 7a and 7b.

[0090] In this embodiment, the housing element 172b of the temperature sensor assembly 17b has a chamber 176b for positioning the sensor element 171b. The chamber 176b is open on the side facing the circuit boards 161a, 161b, 161c. This allows the sensor element 171b to be pushed into the chamber 176b.

[0091] The sensor element 171b may be a through-hole technology (THT) wired electronic component with two electrical terminals 174b.

[0092] On the side of the housing molded element 172b facing away from the electrical connections 174b, there is a contact element 173b that at least partially encloses the sensor element 171a. The contact element 173b is made of an elastic, thermally conductive material. Furthermore, the contact element 173b is partially enclosed by the chamber 176b and rests against a shoulder in the chamber 176b.

[0093] Fig. 9b shows the temperature sensor arrangement 17b from Figs. 8a and 8b in the assembled state without the support structure 13.

[0094] The temperature sensor arrangement 17b is mechanically connected to the circuit board 161b by a snap connection via the connecting means 175b.

[0095] To connect the electrical connections 174b, the circuit board 161b can, for example, have contact holes with contact rivets. The electrical connections 174b can be inserted through these and soldered to the circuit board 162b from the side opposite the sensor element 171b.

[0096] The contact element 173b, which is concealed by the housing molding element 172b in Fig. 9b, is compressed. This allows the sensor element 171b to be installed by pressing it onto the top side 23 of the energy storage cell 2a with a certain contact force.

[0097] The temperature sensor assembly 17b can be mounted as a single assembly on the circuit board 161b. Pressing the temperature sensor assemblies 17a, 17b together ensures good thermal contact. Furthermore, manufacturing tolerances, thermal expansion, or relative movements of the components can be compensated for.

[0098] In the cell contacting system 1, one of the two temperature sensor arrangements 17a, 17b or a combination of both can be provided.

[0099] A circuit board can be a printed circuit board, i.e. a printed circuit board for carrying electronic components.

[0100] Figs. 10a and 10b show a circuit board arrangement of the cell contacting system 1 in the form of circuit board 161a with an additional circuit board 18a, on which sensor elements 181b and, in Fig. 10b, sensor elements 181a concealed by contact elements 173c, such as temperature sensor elements, gas sensor elements, humidity sensor elements, or pressure sensor elements, are located. Figs. 2 and 3 show the positioning of the circuit board arrangement according to Figs. 10a and 10b on the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z of the energy storage device 3.

[0101] Figs. 11a and 11b show the positioning of the circuit board arrangement according to Figs. 10a and 10b on the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z of an energy storage device 3, omitting the support structure 13 for illustrative purposes. With the circuit board arrangement, sensors for various parameters, e.g., for temperature, for gas, for pressure, and / or for humidity, can be positioned along the surface of the energy storage device 3.

[0102] Fig. 12a shows an enlarged section of an additional board 18a according to Figs. 10a and 10b in the area of ​​the spacer 19.

[0103] Fig. 12b shows the contacting means 182a between circuit board 161a and additional circuit board 18a in an enlarged view. Fig. 12c shows an alternative embodiment of a circuit board 161c and an additional circuit board 18b with alternative contacting means 182b.

[0104] The additional circuit board 18a and the circuit board 161a are spaced apart from one another according to Fig. 10a and 10b, vertically offset from one another, and electrically connected to one another via contacting means 182a. In the assembled state of the cell contacting system 1, the contacting means 182a extend through a through-opening 141 of the support structure 13 (see Fig. 3). This advantageously allows the additional circuit board 18a to be positioned on the side 137 of the support structure 13 facing the energy storage device within the degassing channel 132. This thermally separates the additional circuit board 18a from the circuit board 161a by the wall 139 and / or the protective layer 133 of the support structure 13.

[0105] The additional circuit board 18a in Fig. 10a, 10b is plate-shaped and mechanically connected to the support structure 13 via spacers 19. According to Fig. 12a, the spacers 19 each have connecting means 191 on the side facing the additional circuit board 18a and on the side facing the support structure 13. The connecting elements 191 can be designed as a snap connection with two locking arms. The locking arms are resilient elements that can each penetrate the additional circuit board 18a and the support structure 13 to create a mechanical connection between the additional circuit board 18a and the support structure 13. For this purpose, the additional circuit board 18a can have recesses 184 and the support structure 13 can have recesses 142 (see Fig. 2) into which the connecting elements 191 can engage.

[0106] Sensor elements 181a, 181b are provided on the additional circuit board 18a and are electrically connected to the circuit board 161a via conductor tracks (not shown) and via the contacting means 182a, 181b. The sensor elements 181a, 181b can, for example, be SMD components that are soldered to the additional circuit board 18a at soldering pads. According to Fig. 10a, the sensor element 181b is located on the side of the additional circuit board 18a facing the circuit board 161a. The sensor element 181b can, for example, be a sensor element that measures an environmental parameter, e.g., a temperature sensor element, a gas sensor element, a humidity sensor element, or a pressure sensor element. In the assembled state of the cell contacting system 1, the sensor element 181b is not in direct contact with an energy storage cell. As a result, the sensor element 181b can be used to measure, for example, a gas temperature, a gas composition, a humidity or a pressure in the degassing channel 132.The sensor element 181b may also be an electronic component that can detect a plurality of environmental parameters.

[0107] As shown in Fig. 12a, the sensor element 181a is located on the side of the additional circuit board 18a facing away from the circuit board or the side facing the energy storage cells. The sensor element 181a can be, for example, a temperature sensor element, e.g., a Pt-100 resistor configured as an SMD component. A contact element 173c is located on the sensor element 181a and is in contact with the sensor element 181a (shown enlarged and spaced apart in Fig. 12a). The contact element 173c consists of a thermally conductive, elastic material. During assembly of the cell contacting system 1 on the energy storage cells of the energy storage device 3, the contact element 173c can be compressed. This allows the sensor element 181a to be pressed onto the top side 23 of the energy storage cell with a certain contact force. For this purpose, the sensor elements 181a can advantageously be located in the region of the spacers 19.By pressing the sensor element 181a against the sensor, thermal contact is ensured. Furthermore, manufacturing tolerances, thermal expansion, or relative movements of the components can be compensated for.

[0108] The contacting means 182a, 182b are, as shown in Figs. 12b and 12c, projecting conductor webs 183a, 183b, which can be soldered, for example, to soldering pads on the additional circuit board 18a, 18b. According to Fig. 12b, the circuit board 161a has through-openings for the contacting means 182a and a contacting strip 163a. ​​The contacting strip 163a can be soldered to the circuit board 161a. The conductor webs 183a can be plugged into the contacting strip 163a. ​​The contacting strip 163a can have spring contacts for this purpose, for example.

[0109] According to Fig. 12c, the circuit board 161c has press-fit through-openings for the contacting means 182b. The conductor webs 183b can be pressed into the press-fit through-openings.

[0110] The additional board 18b is designed differently in the area of ​​the contacting means 182b than the additional board 18a.

[0111] Figures 13a and 13b show cell connectors 11a, 11b for electrically contacting the pole contacts 22a, 22b of the energy storage cells 2a, 2a, 2z. In the exemplary embodiment, two terminal cell connectors 11b and thirteen cell connectors 11a are shown.

[0112] The cell connectors 11a are each provided to electrically connect a pole contact 22a of an energy storage cell, e.g., 2a, to a pole contact 22b of an adjacent energy storage cell, e.g., 2b. For this purpose, the cell connectors 11a comprise a base body 110 with a first contact surface 112a and a second contact surface 112b, which are each connected, e.g., welded, to a pole contact 22a, 22b.

[0113] The two cell connectors 11b are provided to provide a contacting means between the first energy storage cell 2a and the last energy storage cell 2z to an electrical load (not shown), e.g., an electric motor of an electric vehicle, or to a neighboring energy storage device. The cell connectors 11b have a base body 113 with a contact surface 112a, which is connected, e.g., welded, to the pole contact 22b of the cathode of the first energy storage cell 2a or the pole contact 22a of the anode of the last energy storage cell 2z. Furthermore, the base body 113 has a current tap 110d. The current taps 110d of the two cell connectors 11b thus form the connections of the anode and cathode of the energy storage device 3.

[0114] The base body 110, 113 of the cell connector 11a, 11b consists of an electrically conductive flat material with a preferably constant layer thickness, e.g., a sheet metal. The base body 110, 113 has a first side S1, S2 and a second side S2, S2' and is overmolded in a partial region 110a in the area of ​​the second side S2, S2' with a tempering structure 12 that enlarges the surface of the cell connector 11a, 11b. The tempering structure 12 has, for example, a plurality of tempering ribs 124a running parallel to one another.

[0115] The temperature control structure 12 is preferably a thermally conductive, electrically insulating material, in particular plastic.

[0116] In the cell connector 11a, the temperature control structure 12 extends along the entire length L1 of the first side ST. In the cell connector 11b, the temperature control structure 12 extends only along the length L2 of the first side ST in the region of the contact surface 112a.

[0117] A recess 114 can be provided between the contact surfaces 112a, 112b of the cell connector 11a. On the one hand, this recess shifts the current flow and the resulting heat into the partial area 110a overmolded by the temperature control structure 12. On the other hand, the base body 110 exhibits greater elasticity. Thermal expansion or relative movements of the adjacent energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z can thus be better compensated.

[0118] Furthermore, the base bodies 110, 113 of the cell connectors 11a, 11b can have recesses 115, e.g., in the form of crescent-shaped through-openings. These also increase the elasticity of the base bodies 110, 113. Figs. 14a to 14d show various configurations of the temperature control structure 12. Temperature control wave structures 124b, temperature control knobs 124c, temperature control pins 124d, or temperature control webs 124e can be provided as the temperature control structure.

[0119] Figs. 15a, 15b, 16a, 16b, 17a, 17b show alternative embodiments of cell connectors 11a, in which an additional contact element 121a, 121b, 121c is provided, which is in direct contact with the top side 23 of the energy storage cell via a contact surface 122a, 122b, 122c. This allows for temperature control of the energy storage cells 2a, 2b, 2z.

[0120] The contact element 121a of the temperature control structure 12 of Fig. 15a and 15b is injection-molded around the end region of the base body 110 in such a way that its contact surface 122a rests on the surface of the energy storage cells 2a, 2b or bridges the height of the pole contacts 22a, 22b, cf. Fig. 15a, 15b.

[0121] Fig. 16a and 16b as well as Fig. 17a and 17b show two further alternative embodiments of cell connectors 11a with a contact element 121b, 121c, for example a contact plate.

[0122] According to Figs. 16a and 16b, the contact element 121b is overmolded by the temperature control structure 12 and has an offset 127a. The offset 127a can have substantially the same height as the pole contacts 22a, 22b with respect to the surface 23. As a result, the base body 110 and the contact element 121b can be connected to one another, for example, on one plane, with the result that the contact element 121b rests directly on the upper side of the energy storage cells. A gap 129a is provided between the base body 110 and the contact element 121b so that the base body 110 and the contact element 121b are not in direct contact with one another. The base body 110 and the contact element 121b are connected to one another via the temperature control structure 12. By means of an electrically non-conductive tempering structure 12, the base body 110 and the contact element 121b, 121c can thus be electrically insulated from each other.The contact element 121b can be made of the same material as the base body 110. The variant of Figs. 17a and 17b has an additional offset 127b between the two contact surfaces 112a, 112b. The contact element 121c extends to the vent openings 21 and surrounds the pole contacts 22a, 22b of the energy storage cells 2a, 2b. The additional offset 127b can further increase the thermal conduction between the contact element 121c and the temperature control structure 12, as well as the mechanical stability of the cell connector 11a.

[0123] The offset 127a, 127b can be produced, for example, by two bends of a plate-shaped raw material, e.g. a sheet metal, as shown in Fig. 17b, in which the tempering structure is omitted for illustrative reasons.

[0124] The base body 110 and the contact elements 121b, 121c can advantageously be produced from a common plate-shaped blank, for example cut or punched.

[0125] Corresponding contact elements can also be provided for the terminal cell connectors 11b. The geometry of the contact element for a cell connector 11b can be easily adapted to the geometry of the cell connector 11b.

[0126] The cell connectors 11a, 11b can have an interface to a temperature control channel 131 and can be connected to it, for example, by welding or bonding, preferably in the region of the temperature control structure 12. For this purpose, the through-openings 140 of the support structure 13 can be arranged laterally in the direction of the pole contacts and / or in the direction of the degassing channel and / or in the direction of the battery storage cells.

[0127] The temperature control structure 12 of the cell connectors can close the through-openings 140 of the support structure 13. Furthermore, the temperature control structure 12 can insulate the base element 110, 113 and / or the contact element 121b, 121c from a temperature control fluid located in the temperature control channel 131. This can, for example, provide a fluid consisting of an electrically conductive liquid. The temperature control structure 12 can also insulate the base element 110, 113 and / or the contact element 121b, 121c from the support structure 13. Alternatively, the support element in this variant could be made of a metal, e.g., aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0128] Alternatively, the configurations of the cell connectors 11a, 11b can also be used without a temperature control channel 131. For example, the ambient air can be used for temperature control.

[0129] REFERENCE MARKS LIST

[0130] 1 cell contact system

[0131] 2a first energy storage cell

[0132] 2b second energy storage cell

[0133] 2z last energy storage cell

[0134] 3 energy storage

[0135] 4a Circuit board arrangement

[0136] 4b Board arrangement

[0137] 11a Cell connector

[0138] 11b Cell connector

[0139] 111 Passage opening

[0140] 110 basic bodies

[0141] 113 basic bodies

[0142] 110a sub-area

[0143] 110d power tap

[0144] 112a Contact surface

[0145] 112b Contact surface

[0146] 12 Tempering structure

[0147] 121a Contact element

[0148] 121b Contact element

[0149] 121c contact element

[0150] 122a Contact surface

[0151] 122b Contact surface

[0152] 122c contact surface

[0153] 124a Tempering ribs

[0154] 124b Tempering wave structure

[0155] 124c tempering knobs

[0156] 124d tempering pens

[0157] 124e tempering bars

[0158] 127a Offset 127b Offset

[0159] 129a gap

[0160] 129b gap

[0161] 13 Support structure

[0162] 131 Temperature control channel

[0163] 132 Degassing channel

[0164] 133 Protective layer

[0165] 135 Mounting recess

[0166] 136 Fastening and / or centering devices

[0167] 136a spacer

[0168] 137 first page

[0169] 138 second page

[0170] 139 Wall

[0171] 140 passage opening

[0172] 141 passage opening

[0173] 142 recess

[0174] 15 connecting elements

[0175] 16 Control and / or regulation electronics

[0176] 161a board

[0177] 161b board

[0178] 161c board

[0179] 162 Electronic Components

[0180] 162a recess

[0181] 163a contact strip

[0182] 17a Temperature sensor arrangement

[0183] 17b Temperature sensor arrangement

[0184] 171a Temperature sensor element

[0185] 171b Temperature sensor element

[0186] 172a Housing molding element

[0187] 172b Housing element 173a Contact element

[0188] 173b Contact element

[0189] 173c Contact element

[0190] 174a connections

[0191] 174b connections

[0192] 175a Connecting devices

[0193] 175b Lanyards

[0194] 176a board

[0195] 177a spring arm

[0196] 178a Base

[0197] 178b Base

[0198] 178c level

[0199] 178d level

[0200] 179a guide channel

[0201] 18a additional board

[0202] 18b additional board

[0203] 181a Sensor element

[0204] 181b Sensor element

[0205] 182a Contacting agents

[0206] 182b Contacting agents

[0207] 183a Ladder bridges

[0208] 183b Ladder bridges 184 Recesses

[0209] 19 spacers

[0210] 191 lanyards

[0211] 21 Degassing opening

[0212] 22a pole contact

[0213] 22b Pole contact

[0214] 23 Top

Claims

35 AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 22 November 2023 (22.11.2023) 5 1. Temperature control and degassing arrangement for energy storage cells (2a, 2b, 2z) of an energy storage device (3), in particular an energy storage device for a vehicle, comprising: a support structure (13) with at least one temperature control channel (131) for conveying a fluid for temperature control of the energy storage device 10 (3), wherein the support structure (13) comprises a first side (137) facing the energy storage (3) and a second side (138) facing away from the energy storage (3), wherein the support structure (13) includes at least one support structure-integrated degassing channel (132) for venting from the energy storage 15 cher cells (2a, 2b, 2z) emitting gases, characterized by the fact that Cell connectors (11a, 11b) are provided for the electrical connection of the energy storage cells (2a, 2b, 2z), wherein the cell connectors (11a, 11b) and the support structure (13) form a jointly mountable assembly 20 are connected, wherein the at least one temperature control channel (131) has through-openings (140) arranged laterally to its longitudinal axis, and wherein the through-openings (140) accommodate the cell connectors (11a, 11b) and / or overmolded cooling geometries of the cell connectors (11a, 11b). 25 men.

2. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one degassing channel (132) and the at least one temperature control channel (131) are each connected to the 30 support structure (13) are formed.

3. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one degassing channel AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) 36 (132) is openly designed on the first side (137) of the support structure (13).

4. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to at least one 5 of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support structure (13) has a wall (139) whose side opposite the energy storage device (3) serves as a mounting base.

5. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to claim 4, 10 characterized in that the support structure (13) has fastening and / or centering means (136) and / or through openings (141).

6. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to claim 5, 15 characterized in that the wall (139) has an offset forming a mounting recess (135).

7. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier- 20 structure (131) fastening and / or centering means (136) and / or through opening (141) and / or spacer (136a) preferably each in the area of ​​the wall (139) and / or the mounting recess (135). 25 8. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inside of the degassing channel (132) and / or the underside of the at least one temperature control channel (131) has a protective layer (133). 30 9. Tempering and degassing arrangement according to claim 7, characterized in that the protective layer (133) consists of a heat- and / or acid-resistant material. AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) 37 10. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to at least one of claims 4 to 9, characterized in that the wall (139) extends between two or at least two temperature control channels (131). 5 11. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to claims 4 to 9, characterized in that a third or a third and a fourth temperature control channel (131) is located between two edge-side temperature control channels (131). 10 12. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support structure (13) is designed as a molded part, preferably as an injection molded part or as an extruded part. 15 13. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the material for the support structure (13) is plastic or aluminium or an aluminium alloy. 20 14. Temperature control and degassing arrangement according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support structure (13) is a profile structure, preferably a hollow profile structure. 25 15. Energy storage device (3), in particular an energy storage device for a vehicle, comprising a plurality of interconnected energy storage cells (2a, 2b, 2z) and a temperature control and / or degassing arrangement, characterized in that a temperature control and / or degassing arrangement is provided. 30 sungsstellung nach nachts einen von Ansprüche 1 bis 14 sorgen ist. AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)

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