Assembly and corresponding manufacturing method

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly (2) which comprises a primary electrochemical element (4), a rechargeable electrical element (6) electrically connected in parallel with the primary electrochemical element, and an element (14) for holding the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element relative to each other. The holding element holds the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element in a predefined spatial configuration relative to each other. The holding element comprises positioning surfaces defining the predefined spatial configuration. The positioning surfaces comprise first positioning surfaces (30), which are positioning surfaces of the primary electrochemical element, and second positioning surfaces (32), which are positioning surfaces of the rechargeable electrical element. The first and second positioning surfaces (30, 32) define the predefined spatial configuration in the presence and absence of contact of the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element with these positioning surfaces.

Description

[0001] TITLE: Assembly and corresponding manufacturing process

[0002] The present invention relates to an assembly, of the type comprising a primary electrochemical element, a rechargeable electrical element electrically connected in parallel to the primary electrochemical element, and an element for holding the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element relative to each other.

[0003] Assemblies are known comprising a primary electrochemical element, such as a primary electrochemical cell, and a rechargeable electrical element which is electrically connected in parallel to the primary electrochemical element. These assemblies further comprise an element for holding the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element relative to each other. This holding element is usually constituted by a flexible tape made of self-adhesive and / or heat-shrinkable plastic material.

[0004] These sets involve, among other things, the following disadvantages:

[0005] - The plastic tape, due to its flexibility, does not define with certainty the position of the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element relative to each other. When assembling two assemblies, the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element may therefore have different relative positions.

[0006] - The amount of raw material used is relatively high for a given holding capacity, given that the ribbon generally has to make more than one complete turn around the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element.

[0007] - The ribbon assembly is complicated and difficult to reproduce identically.

[0008] - Similarly, the position of electrical connection elements, such as electrical wires between the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element is not defined.

[0009] - The assembly has a relatively limited lifespan, notably due to the tendency of the rechargeable electrical element to age more quickly than the primary electrochemical element.

[0010] Particularly for the Internet of Things industry, there is a need for a system that can be easily integrated into an electrical device and is easy to handle. Other targeted applications include smart meters and monitoring systems.

[0011] In addition, there is a need for the assembly to be able to supply electrical energy with very high autonomy and reliability and under adverse environmental conditions, such as high humidity and temperature variations.

[0012] Assemblies are known from EP2328200A1, EP3079180A1, EP3193387A1, JP2006185751 A, WO2015167084A1, and WO2016032106A1.

[0013] The aim of the invention is to propose an electricity supply system which is reliable and which can be integrated economically into a device, in particular of the “internet of things” type.

[0014] In general, the invention aims to overcome at least one of the above drawbacks and to do so using economical means.

[0015] To this end, the invention relates to an assembly, as indicated above, characterized in that the holding element holds the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element relative to each other in a predefined spatial configuration, and in that the holding element comprises positioning surfaces defining the predefined spatial configuration, in that the positioning surfaces comprise first positioning surfaces (30), which are positioning surfaces of the primary electrochemical element, and second positioning surfaces (32), which are positioning surfaces of the rechargeable electrical element, and in that the first and second positioning surfaces (30, 32) define the predefined spatial configuration in the presence and absence of contact of the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element with these positioning surfaces.

[0016] According to particular embodiments of the assembly, the latter may comprise one or more of the following characteristics:

[0017] - the assembly comprises a first central axis, which is a central axis of the primary electrochemical element, and the assembly comprises a second central axis, which is a central axis of the rechargeable electrical element, and the predefined spatial configuration comprises on the one hand either the first central axis is perpendicular to the second central axis, or the first central axis is parallel to the second central axis, or the first central axis is coaxial with the second central axis, and / or on the other hand either the rechargeable electrical element is axially centered on the first central axis, or the rechargeable electrical element is axially offset from the first central axis, or the rechargeable electrical element is axially aligned with respect to a front face of the primary electrochemical element, or the rechargeable electrical element is axially centered with respect to front faces of the primary electrochemical element;

[0018] - the holding element is provided

[0019] - a first holding portion adapted to hold the primary electrochemical element and comprising the first positioning surfaces, and

[0020] - a second holding portion adapted to hold the rechargeable electrical element and comprising the second positioning surfaces.

[0021] - on the one hand the first holding portion either goes all the way around the primary electrochemical element around the first central axis, or is interrupted circumferentially around the first central axis, or is an inner annular portion of a connecting plate and / or on the other hand the second holding portion either goes all the way around the rechargeable electrical element around the second central axis, or is interrupted circumferentially around the second central axis.

[0022] - either the first holding portion extends along the entire length of the primary electrochemical element along the first central axis,

[0023] - either the primary electrochemical element protrudes axially from the first holding portion;

[0024] - the first holding portion has a wall thickness greater than 0.200 mm, in particular greater than 0.300 mm, and / or the second holding portion has a wall thickness greater than 0.200 mm, in particular greater than 0.300 mm, and / or the holding element is made of plastic, in particular non-heat-shrinkable;

[0025] - the holding element comprises a cap, provided with a peripheral wall and an end wall, and the first holding portion comprises the peripheral wall;

[0026] - the second holding portion comprises the end wall, and possibly the peripheral wall;

[0027] - the first holding portion comprises an axial stop;

[0028] - the second holding portion comprises positioning projections, and / or the first holding portion comprises either a peripheral wall extending from the connecting portion, or an inner annular portion;

[0029] - the holding element comprises a connecting portion which connects the first holding portion and the second holding portion;

[0030] - the rechargeable electrical element is coated with a sealing material, in particular polymer resin;

[0031] - the sealing material has the physical property that the maximum percentage of water absorption after 30 days according to method 1 of ISO 62:2008 3rd edition is less than or equal to 1.0% and preferably less than or equal to 0.2%.

[0032] The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing an assembly as defined above, characterized in that, comprising the following successive steps:

[0033] - provide the primary electrochemical element,

[0034] - provide the rechargeable electrical element,

[0035] - provide the holding element,

[0036] - electrically connect the rechargeable electrical element in parallel to the primary electrochemical element,

[0037] - apply the rechargeable electrical element to the second positioning surfaces,

[0038] - apply the primary electrochemical element to the first positioning surfaces,

[0039] - fix the rechargeable electrical element on the holding element, and

[0040] - fix the primary electrochemical element on the holding element.

[0041] The invention will be better understood on reading the following description, given solely by way of example and with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0042] [Fig 1] Figure 1 shows, seen from the side, a first embodiment of an assembly according to the invention;

[0043] [Fig 2] Figure 2 shows the whole of Figure 1 in perspective;

[0044] [Fig 3] Figure 3 shows the assembly of Figures 1 and 2 in a section along a plane parallel to the plane of Figure 1 and perpendicular to the section plane of Figure 4;

[0045] [Fig 4] Figure 4 is a sectional view along line IV-IV of Figure 1 with the primary electrochemical element shown schematically in broken lines;

[0046] [Fig 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the holding member of the assembly of Figures 1 to 4;

[0047] [Fig 6] Figure 6 is a plan view of a closing washer of the assembly of Figures 1 to 4; [Fig 7] Figure 7 is a schematic median sectional view of a second embodiment of an assembly according to the invention;

[0048] [Fig 8] Figure 8 is a schematic sectional view along line VIII-VII I of Figure 7;

[0049] [Fig 9] Figure 9 is a schematic view in median section of a third embodiment of an assembly according to the invention;

[0050] [Fig 10] Figure 10 is a schematic sectional view along line XX of Figure 9;

[0051] [Fig 1 1] Figure 1 1 is a side view of a fourth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention during assembly, the rechargeable electrical element being shown in broken lines;

[0052] [Fig 12] Figure 12 is a top view of a fifth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, the assembly being in the assembled state;

[0053] [Fig 13] Figure 13 is a side view of the fifth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, the assembly being in the assembled state;

[0054] [Fig 14] Figure 14 is a rear view of the fifth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, the assembly being in the assembled state;

[0055] [Fig 15] Figure 15 is a top view of a sixth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, the primary electrical element and the rechargeable electrical element being omitted;

[0056] [Fig 16] Figure 16 is a front view of the sixth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, the primary electrical element and the rechargeable electrical element being omitted;

[0057] [Fig 17] Figure 17 is a side view of the sixth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, the assembly being in the assembled state;

[0058] [Fig 18] Figure 18 is a front view of the sixth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, the assembly being in the assembled state;

[0059] [Fig 19] Figure 19 is a schematic view in median section of a seventh embodiment of an assembly according to the invention;

[0060] [Fig 20] Figure 20 is a schematic sectional view along line XX-XX of Figure 19 of the seventh embodiment of an assembly according to the invention;

[0061] [Fig 21] Figure 21 is a schematic view in median section of an eighth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention; and

[0062] [Fig 22] Figure 22 is a schematic median sectional view of a ninth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention. In the following, unless otherwise indicated, the expressions "axial"; "radial"; "circumferentially" generally refer to the axis of the element concerned.

[0063] Figure 1 shows an assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, designated by the general reference 2.

[0064] Assembly 2 is an electrochemical assembly that is suitable for supplying electricity to an electrical device (not shown), such as an Internet of Things device. Assembly 2 is a module that can be handled autonomously, and whose constituent elements do not separate from each other, in particular at least under the effect of the force of gravity.

[0065] Assembly 2 comprises a primary electrochemical element 4 and a rechargeable electrical element 6 (Figure 3).

[0066] The rechargeable electrical element 6 is electrically connected in parallel to the primary electrochemical element 4.

[0067] The assembly 2 is provided with a power connection 8, in this case comprising two electrical wires 10 and a connector 12. The power connection 8 is electrically connected in parallel to the rechargeable electrical element 6 and is used to power the electrical device (not shown) by the assembly 2.

[0068] The assembly 2 also comprises an element 14 for holding the primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6 relative to each other.

[0069] The primary electrochemical element 4 is a non-rechargeable electrochemical element, also referred to as a “battery”, in particular an element of the Lithium - Thionyl Chloride (Li-SOCh), Lithium - manganese dioxide (Li-MnOs), Li-SOs, Li-CFx, Li-SOsCh type, or mixtures of these components.

[0070] The primary electrochemical element 4 comprises in this case a cylindrical peripheral surface 16 and two front faces 18, 20. The assembly 2 comprises a first central axis XX, which is a central axis of the primary electrochemical element 4, and which, in this case, is the central axis of the peripheral surface 16. The cylindrical peripheral surface 16 has in particular a circular cross-section.

[0071] The front faces 18, 20 are substantially flat and extend perpendicularly to the first central axis XX. These front faces 18, 20 have a known shape of negative pole surface, respectively of positive pole of an electrochemical element. The primary electrochemical element 4 preferably has a shape corresponding essentially to that of a standard cell of the AA, AAA, AAAA, C, D, 3LR12 / 3R12, or E type.

[0072] The rechargeable electrical element 6 is for example a capacitor, a hybrid capacitor or a secondary electrochemical element, preferably of the Li-Ion type.

[0073] In the case of a capacitor or hybrid capacitor, this has, for example, a capacitance of between 8pF and 50 F, preferably between 10.0 mF and 30.0 mF, between 2.0 F and 4.0 F, between 18.0 F and 22.0 F or between 38.0F and 42.0F.

[0074] The capacitor can be a "supercapacitor" or "electrochemical double layer capacitor" (in English "Electrochemical Double Layer Capacitor (EDLC)"), or even "ultracapacitor". This is a device for storing energy by accumulation of ions on two electrodes serving as ion collectors when a potential difference is imposed between them. The energy storage in a (super-) capacitor is of electrostatic origin, and not electrochemical as in the case of accumulators. The hybrid capacitor can be a hybrid capacitor, with a positive electrode of the supercapacitor type based on activated carbon, and a negative electrode of the Li-lon type with a sheet structure and which inserts / deinserts Lithium ions.

[0075] In the case where the rechargeable electrical element 6 is a secondary electrochemical element, it may be a rechargeable electrochemical element, preferably cylindrical, with a capacity of between 0.1 Ah and 1 Ah.

[0076] The rechargeable electrical element 6 comprises in this case a cylindrical peripheral surface 22 and two front faces 24, 26. The assembly 2 comprises a second central axis YY, which is a central axis of the rechargeable electrical element 6, and which, in this case, is the central axis of the peripheral surface 22. The cylindrical peripheral surface 22 advantageously has a circular cross-section.

[0077] The front faces 24, 26 of the rechargeable electrical element 6 are substantially flat and extend perpendicularly to the second central axis YY. These front faces 24, 26 may have a known shape of negative pole surface respectively of positive pole of an electric cell.

[0078] The rechargeable electrical element 6 preferably has a shape essentially corresponding to that of a capacitor, therefore with a cylindrical outer surface. The diameter of the cylinder can be inscribed in a diameter of 10 mm.

[0079] According to the invention, the holding element 14 holds the primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6 relative to each other in a predefined spatial configuration. Even in the absence of the primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6, the holding element 14 is adapted to hold the primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6 in the predefined spatial configuration.

[0080] The predefined spatial configuration is a determined position and a determined orientation of the primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6 relative to each other.

[0081] In particular, the spatial configuration is defined with certainty for a given primary electrochemical element 4 and a rechargeable electrical element 6 by the holding element 14, even in the unassembled state of the primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6.

[0082] The holding element 14 is an element which is rigid, that is to say it does not deform visibly under its own weight. The holding element 14 is in any case more rigid than self-adhesive or heat-shrinkable tapes.

[0083] The holding element 14 comprises positioning surfaces defining the predefined spatial configuration. The positioning surfaces comprise first positioning surfaces 30, which are positioning surfaces of the primary electrochemical element 4. The positioning surfaces also comprise second positioning surfaces 32, which are positioning surfaces of the rechargeable electrical element 6.

[0084] The first positioning surfaces 30 and the second positioning surfaces 32 define the predefined spatial configuration in the presence of contact of the primary electrochemical element 4 with the first positioning surfaces 30 and in the presence of contact of the rechargeable electrical element 6 with the second positioning surfaces 32. The first positioning surfaces 30 and the second positioning surfaces 32 define the predefined spatial configuration also in the absence of contact of the primary electrochemical element 4 with the first positioning surfaces 30 and in the absence of contact of the rechargeable electrical element 6 with the second positioning surfaces 32. This means that even before assembly, for a given primary electrochemical element 4 and a given rechargeable electrical element 6, the predefined spatial configuration is fixed by the holding element 14.

[0085] Unlike a heat-shrinkable tape of the prior art, which is flexible and does not pre-define any configuration, the holding element 14 is sufficiently rigid so as to guarantee the spatial configuration of the primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6. As illustrated in Figure 4, the predefined spatial configuration comprises the first central axis XX being perpendicular to the second central axis YY.

[0086] Furthermore, in the present case, the rechargeable electrical element 6 is axially centered on the first central axis XX. The second central axis YY therefore intersects the first central axis XX. The axial length of the rechargeable electrical element 6 along the second axis YY is essentially identical on either side of the first central axis XX.

[0087] The holding element 14 is provided with a first holding portion 34 adapted to hold the primary electrochemical element 4 and comprising the first positioning surfaces 30. The holding element 14 is provided with a second holding portion 36 adapted to hold the rechargeable electrical element 6 and comprising the second positioning surfaces 32.

[0088] A connecting portion 37 connects the first holding portion 34 and the second holding portion 36. The connecting portion may be omitted or minimal, in case the first holding portion 34 and the second holding portion 36 are contiguous. In any case, the first holding portion 34 and the second holding portion 36 are fixed relative to each other.

[0089] The holding element 14 comprises in this case a cap 38, provided with a peripheral wall 40 and an end wall 42. The cap 38 is in this case made of plastic, in one piece and is for example manufactured by injection molding. Generally, the holding element 14 is made of plastic, in particular non-heat-shrinkable.

[0090] The plastic material of the cap 38, more generally of the holding element 14, may be thermoplastic material, such as Polyethylene, PE, PP, ABS, and PET.

[0091] In this case, the first holding portion 34 comprises the peripheral wall 40 and the first positioning surfaces 30 comprise an inner surface of the peripheral wall. The first holding portion 34 extends all the way around the primary electrochemical element 4 around the first central axis XX. The first holding portion 34 has a wall thickness E1 greater than 0.200 mm, in particular greater than 0.300 mm.

[0092] The first holding portion 34 defines the position of the primary electrochemical element 4 relative to the holding element 14 in a radial direction relative to the first central axis XX.

[0093] The first holding portion 34 also comprises an axial stop 44 which defines the position of the primary electrochemical element 4 relative to the holding element 14 in an axial direction relative to the first central axis XX.

[0094] The primary electrochemical element 4 protrudes axially from the first holding portion 34 and therefore from the peripheral wall 40. The axial length of this protrusion is marked L1 in Figure 3. Thus, indications on the surface of the primary electrochemical element 4 can be visible.

[0095] The peripheral wall 40 comprises at least one, in this case two, sectors with weakened wall thickness 46. These sectors with weakened wall thickness 46 allow on the one hand the passage of the electric wires 10 of the rechargeable electric element 6 towards the outside of the cover 38 and on the other hand the passage of a negative interconnection element 58 (see below).

[0096] The holding element 14 comprises in this case a separating disc 50, which axially separates the primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6. The separating disc 50 is a separate component from the cap 38. Alternatively, the holding element 14 comprises instead of the separating disc 50 a separating wall between the primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6. The holding element 14 can be in one piece or in several pieces.

[0097] The axial stop 44 is formed in this case by axial ribs or columns 52 of the cap 38, on which the separation disc 50 is applied. The primary electrochemical element 4 is applied axially on the separation disc 50.

[0098] In a variant not shown, the separation disc 50 is omitted. In this case, the axial stop 44 is formed for example by projections of the cap 38, such as axial ribs 52, and the primary electrochemical element 4 is applied axially on the projections of the cap 38.

[0099] The separation disc 50 is shown in plan view in Figure 6. The separation disc 50 is substantially planar and its periphery is essentially complementary to the inner surface of the cap 38. The separation disc 50 includes notches 54, which are in the assembled state of the separation disc 50 and the cap 38, located opposite the sectors with weakened wall thickness 46.

[0100] The separation disc 50 is also provided with a central passage opening 56.

[0101] The material of the separation disc 50 is advantageously compatible or identical to the material of the cover 38. The material of the separation disc 50 is, for example, also plastic.

[0102] The assembly 2 comprises a negative interconnection element 58 electrically connecting the negative pole of the primary electrochemical element 4 to the negative pole of the rechargeable electrical element 6. This negative interconnection element 58 is in this case a conductive strip. The assembly 2 comprises a positive interconnection element 60 connecting the positive pole of the primary electrochemical element 4 to the positive pole of the rechargeable electrical element 6. This positive interconnection element 60 is in this case a conductive strip.

[0103] The central passage opening 56 allows the passage of the positive interconnection element 60.

[0104] The separating disc 50 comprises a passage 62 for the two electrical wires 10, in the form of a through opening. The passage 62 is eccentric relative to the central axis XX.

[0105] The second holding portion 36 comprises the end wall 42 of the cap 38. The second holding portion 36 has a wall thickness E2 greater than 0.200 mm, in particular greater than 0.300 mm.

[0106] The second holding portion 36, in this case the end wall 42, comprises positioning projections 68 which form the second positioning surfaces 32. The positioning projections 68 have, in cross-section, parallel to the central axis XX and perpendicular to the axis YY in the Figures, a shape widening towards the rechargeable electrical element 6. In this case, this shape is substantially V-shaped with a truncated tip.

[0107] In the assembled state of the assembly 2, the peripheral surface 22 of the rechargeable electrical element 6 is applied against the positioning projections 68 and on the second positioning surfaces 32.

[0108] The second holding portion 36 thus defines the position of the rechargeable element 6 relative to the holding element 14 in a radial direction relative to the second central axis YY.

[0109] In this case, the second holding portion 36 also comprises the peripheral wall 40, or alternatively a part of this peripheral wall 40. The peripheral wall 40 therefore forms an axial positioning surface which defines the axial position of the rechargeable electrical element 6 along its central axis YY. This axial positioning surface is for example a contact surface between a peripheral end edge of the rechargeable electrical element 6 and a generatrix of the peripheral wall 40.

[0110] The rechargeable electrical element 6 is coated, in particular completely coated, with a sealing material 72. The sealing material 72 is a solidified pasty or liquid material and surrounds the rechargeable electrical element 6 in a waterproof manner. The sealing material 72 consists in particular of a polymer resin or a solidified adhesive, such as polyurethane, polyacrylate and their copolymers. The sealing material 72 advantageously fills the volume between the end wall 42 and the separating disc 50 and also advantageously fills small volumes and interstices.

[0111] The sealing material, when implemented, has a viscosity of less than or equal to 4500 mPa.s, preferably less than or equal to 1500 mPa.s. This facilitates the introduction of the sealing material. After implementation, the sealing material hardens and becomes solid.

[0112] At least, the sealing material 72 extends into the cap 38 to a level completely covering the rechargeable electrical element 6, for example in the absence of a separation disc 50.

[0113] The sealing material 72 once implemented advantageously has the following physical property: the maximum percentage of water absorption after 30 days according to method 1 of standard ISO 62:2008 3rd edition is less than or equal to 1.0% and preferably less than or equal to 0.2%.

[0114] The manufacturing of set 2 includes the following steps:

[0115] - The rechargeable electrical element 6 is placed in the cap 38 such that the peripheral surface 22 is in contact with the second positioning surfaces 32.

[0116] - If necessary, the rechargeable electric 6 is positioned in the cap 38 such that it is in contact with the axial positioning surface, therefore in this case the peripheral wall.

[0117] - Optionally, before placing the rechargeable electrical element 6 in the cover 38, glue is added in order to temporarily hold the rechargeable electrical element 6 in the cover 38.

[0118] - Then, the sealing material 72 is introduced in the non-solid state into the cap 38 until the rechargeable electrical element 6 is completely covered and the sealing material 72 is allowed to solidify.

[0119] - Then, if necessary, the separation disc 50 is added to the sealing material 72.

[0120] - The primary electrochemical element 4 is connected to the negative interconnection element 58 and to the positive interconnection element 60.

[0121] - The primary electrochemical element 4 is introduced axially into the cap 38 until the primary electrochemical element 4 is applied against the separation disc 50, or in the absence of a separation disc 50 against the axial ribs 52.

[0122] Figures 7 and 8 show a second embodiment of an assembly according to the invention in a schematic view in median section and a cross-sectional view. Subsequently, only the differences with respect to the previous embodiment will be described. Similar elements bear the same references. The holding element 14 comprises a stepped cap 38. The first holding portion 34 comprises a first axial part 80 of a peripheral wall 40 having a first internal diameter D1. The second holding portion 36 comprises a second axial part 82 of the peripheral wall 40 having a second internal diameter D2 which is greater than the first diameter D1. Between the two axial parts 80, 82 of the peripheral wall 40, the peripheral wall comprises an annular part 84.

[0123] The first positioning surfaces 30 comprise the inner surface of the first axial portion 80. The axial position of the primary electrochemical element 4 is determined by axial stops not shown.

[0124] The second positioning surfaces 32 comprise the inner surface of the second axial portion 82. Thus, the axial position of the rechargeable electrical element 6 is determined by the inner surface of the second axial portion 82.

[0125] The second positioning surfaces 32 further comprise a front surface of the annular portion 84. For this purpose, the rechargeable electrical element 6 is applied against the annular portion 84. The annular portion may also be provided with positioning projections, such as positioning projections 68 of the first embodiment.

[0126] The holding element 14, in this case, does not comprise a separation disc 50. The sealing material 72 therefore coats the rechargeable electrical element 6 and the end of the primary electrochemical element 4.

[0127] In order that the assembly 2 can be assembled, the holding element 14 may be in at least two parts, for example the end wall 42 may be a separate component and form a cover.

[0128] Figures 9 and 10 show a third embodiment of an assembly according to the invention in a schematic view in median section and a schematic view in axial section along line XX. Subsequently, only the differences from the previous embodiment will be described. Similar elements bear the same references.

[0129] The holding element 14 comprises a non-stepped cap 38.

[0130] The predefined spatial configuration comprises the first central axis XX being perpendicular to the second central axis YY, and the rechargeable electrical element 6 being axially offset from the first central axis XX. Thus, a transverse plane of the rechargeable electrical element 6 which extends midway between the axial ends of the rechargeable electrical element 6 is offset from the central axis XX of the primary electrochemical element 4. In this case, the rechargeable electrical element 6 is axially offset from the first central axis XX so that the front face 24 of the rechargeable electrical element 6 is substantially aligned with the peripheral surface 16 of the primary electrochemical element 4.

[0131] The first holding portion 34 comprises a first axial part 80 of a peripheral wall 40 having an inner diameter D. The second holding portion 36 comprises a second axial part 82 of the peripheral wall 40 having an inner diameter which is identical to the diameter D. Between the two axial parts 80, 82 of the peripheral wall 40, the peripheral wall 40 therefore does not comprise an annular part and also has the inner diameter D.

[0132] The internal diameter D is greater than the diameter of the peripheral surface 16 of the primary electrochemical element 4. The peripheral wall 40 and the primary electrochemical element 4 therefore form a radial gap E relative to the central axis XX.

[0133] The first holding portion 34 extends along the entire length of the primary electrochemical element 4 along the first central axis XX. Thus, the primary electrochemical element 4 is entirely arranged inside the peripheral wall 40 over the axial length L2.

[0134] The first positioning surfaces 30 comprise the inner surface of the first axial portion 80. The axial position of the primary electrochemical element 4 is determined by axial stops not shown.

[0135] The second positioning surfaces 32 comprise the inner surface of the second axial portion 82. Thus, the axial position of the rechargeable electrical element 6 is determined by the inner surface of the second axial portion 82.

[0136] The second holding portion 36 comprises the end wall 42 of the cap 38. The second positioning surfaces 32 comprise a front surface of the end wall 42 or projections not shown similarly to the projections 68 of the first embodiment.

[0137] The holding element 14, in this case, does not comprise a separation disc 50. The sealing material 72 coats the rechargeable electrical element 6, one end of the primary electrochemical element 4 and the primary electrochemical element 4 over substantially its entire axial height. The sealing material 72 therefore occupies essentially all of the space between, on the one hand, the primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6 and, on the other hand, the cap 38.

[0138] Figure 11 shows a side view of a fourth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention, the rechargeable electrical element 6 being omitted. Subsequently, only the differences from the previous embodiment will be described. Similar elements bear the same references.

[0139] The holding element 14 comprises a connecting plate 90 forming the connecting portion 37 between the first holding portion 34 and the second holding portion 36. The connecting plate 90 carries an inner annular portion which cooperates by complementarity of shapes with the positive pole of the primary electrochemical element 4 (indicated in broken lines) and which is in this case the first holding portion.

[0140] The second holding portion 36 comprises holding arms 92 extending on either side of the rechargeable electrical element 6. The holding arms 92 have ends which are located apart from each other. Thus, the second holding portion 36 is interrupted circumferentially around the second central axis YY.

[0141] Figures 12 to 14 show a fifth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention. This embodiment combines aspects of the first and fourth embodiments. Hereinafter, only the differences from the first and fourth embodiments will be described. Similar elements bear the same references.

[0142] Figure 12 is a top view of this fifth embodiment.

[0143] The holding element 14 comprises a connecting plate 90 forming the connecting portion 37 between the first holding portion 34 and the second holding portion 36.

[0144] The first holding portion 34 comprises the peripheral wall 40 and the first positioning surfaces 30 comprise an inner surface of the peripheral wall, similarly to the first embodiment. The first holding portion 34 also comprises the axial stop 44 which is formed by an annular peripheral wall extending radially inward from the peripheral wall 40. The axial stop 44 is therefore formed by a peripheral portion adjacent to the connecting plate 90.

[0145] The connecting plate 90 does not include an inner annular portion which cooperates by complementarity of shapes with the positive pole of the primary electrochemical element 4.

[0146] Similar to the fourth embodiment, the second holding portion 36 comprises holding arms 92 extending on either side of the rechargeable electrical element 6. The holding arms 92 have ends which are located apart from each other and which form second positioning surfaces 32.

[0147] The second holding portion 36 includes positioning projections 68 similar to the projections 68 of the first embodiment and which also form second positioning surfaces 32.

[0148] Figures 15 to 18 show a sixth embodiment of an assembly 2 according to the invention. Hereinafter, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described. Similar elements bear the same references. The spatial configuration predefined by the holding element 14 comprises the first central axis XX being parallel to the second central axis YY, but not being coaxial therewith. The primary electrochemical element 4 and the rechargeable electrical element 6 are arranged such that the front face 18 of the primary electrochemical element 4 and the front face 24 of the rechargeable electrical element 6 are axially substantially aligned.

[0149] The holding element 14 is a holding clip.

[0150] In this embodiment, the first holding portion 34 is interrupted circumferentially around the first central axis XX. In this case, the first holding portion 34 comprises two holding walls 100 facing each other which have partial cylinder surfaces 102 complementary to the peripheral surface of the primary electrochemical element 4. These partial cylinder surfaces 102 each extend over an angular range of less than 180° around the central axis XX and for example over an angular range of between 60° and 100°. These partial cylinder surfaces 102 cover the primary electrochemical element 4 on at least one plane passing through the central axis XX. Thus the two holding walls 100 radially hold the primary electrochemical element 4.

[0151] The retaining walls 100 advantageously extend over the entire axial length of the primary electrochemical element 4.

[0152] The first holding portion 34 also comprises an axial stop 44 in the form of two stop walls 104 which project radially inward from one end of the holding walls 100.

[0153] Stop walls 104 may be arranged on a single axial end or on both axial ends of the two retaining walls 100.

[0154] In a manner similar to the first holding portion 34, the second holding portion 36 is circumferentially interrupted around the second central axis YY. In this case, the second holding portion 36 comprises two holding walls 106 facing each other which have partial cylinder surfaces 108 complementary to the peripheral surface of the rechargeable electrical element 6. These partial cylinder surfaces 108 each extend over an angular range of less than 180° around the central axis YY and for example over an angular range of between 60° and 100°. These partial cylinder surfaces 108 cover the rechargeable electrical element 6 on at least one plane passing through the central axis YY. Thus the two holding walls 106 radially hold the rechargeable electrical element 6.

[0155] The holding walls 106 extend over the entire axial length of the rechargeable electrical element 6. The second holding portion 36 also comprises an axial stop in the form of two stop walls 110 which project radially inwards from one end of the holding walls 100.

[0156] Figures 19 and 20 schematically show a seventh embodiment of an assembly according to the invention in a median sectional view and an axial sectional view along the line XX-XX. Subsequently, the differences or similarities with respect to the previous embodiments will be described. Similar elements bear the same references.

[0157] The spatial configuration predefined by the holding element 14 is identical to that of the fifth embodiment of Figures 15 to 18.

[0158] The holding element 14 is axially closed on one side and axially open on the other side.

[0159] The second holding portion goes all the way around the rechargeable electrical element around the second central axis YY.

[0160] Figure 21 schematically shows an eighth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention. Subsequently, the differences or similarities with respect to the previous embodiments will be described. Similar elements bear the same references.

[0161] The spatial configuration predefined by the holding element 14 comprises the first central axis XX being coaxial with the second central axis.

[0162] The holding element 14 comprises a hollow and tubular sleeve. The diameters of the first positioning surfaces 30 respectively of the second positioning surfaces 32 defining the radial position of the primary electrochemical element 4 respectively of the rechargeable electrical element 6 are identical.

[0163] The holding element 14 is open on two axial sides.

[0164] The first positioning surfaces 30 and the second positioning surfaces 32 may comprise axial positioning surfaces formed, for example, by radial projections (not shown).

[0165] The second holding portion goes all the way around the rechargeable electrical element around the second central axis YY.

[0166] Figure 22 schematically shows a ninth embodiment of an assembly according to the invention. The differences from the eighth embodiment will be described below. Similar elements bear the same references.

[0167] The holding element 14 comprises, in addition to the hollow and tubular sleeve, a plug 112 closing an axial end of the sleeve. The plug 112 forms an axial stop for the rechargeable electrical element 6 and therefore defines axial positioning surfaces.

[0168] Electrical connection elements are not shown in all embodiments. They are of course present.

[0169] The following general characteristics may apply to each of the embodiments, provided that this is technically compatible:

[0170] The second holding portion goes all the way around the rechargeable electrical element around the second central axis YY.

[0171] Alternatively, the cylindrical peripheral surface 16 has a non-circular cross-section, for example a rectangle with rounded corners or ends.

[0172] In a variant not shown, the rechargeable electrical element is axially centered relative to the front faces of the primary electrochemical element.

[0173] The assembly according to the invention is reliable and has a long service life for a given cost. The assembly according to the invention is also economical and easy to manufacture. The assembly according to the invention also makes it possible to integrate a primary electrochemical element and a rechargeable electrical element in a predetermined manner in a device to be powered by the assembly.

[0174] The preceding description contains technical features of the invention. These technical features, although presented in a technical context and possibly in combination with other technical features, can be used individually in each case, without the other technical features, as far as this is technically possible.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Set (2), of the type comprising - a primary electrochemical element (4), - a rechargeable electrical element (6) electrically connected in parallel to the primary electrochemical element, and - a holding element (14) for holding the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element relative to each other, characterized in that the holding element holds the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element relative to each other in a predefined spatial configuration, and in that the holding element comprises positioning surfaces defining the predefined spatial configuration, in that the positioning surfaces comprise first positioning surfaces (30), which are positioning surfaces of the primary electrochemical element, and second positioning surfaces (32), which are positioning surfaces of the rechargeable electrical element, and in that the first and second positioning surfaces (30,32) define the predefined spatial configuration in the presence and absence of contact of the primary electrochemical element and the rechargeable electrical element with these positioning surfaces., 2. Assembly according to claim 1, wherein the assembly comprises a first central axis (XX), which is a central axis of the primary electrochemical element (4), and the assembly comprises a second central axis (YY), which is a central axis of the rechargeable electrical element, and wherein the predefined spatial configuration comprises on the one hand either the first central axis (XX) is perpendicular to the second central axis (YY), or the first central axis (XX) is parallel to the second central axis (YY), or the first central axis (XX) is coaxial with the second central axis (YY), and / or on the other hand either the rechargeable electrical element (6) is axially centered on the first central axis, or the rechargeable electrical element is axially offset relative to the first central axis, either the rechargeable electrical element is axially aligned with respect to a front face of the primary electrochemical element, or the rechargeable electrical element is axially centered with respect to front faces of the primary electrochemical element.

3. Assembly according to claim 1 or 2, in which the holding element (14) is provided - a first holding portion (34) adapted to hold the primary electrochemical element and comprising the first positioning surfaces, and - a second holding portion (36) adapted to hold the rechargeable electrical element and comprising the second positioning surfaces.

4. Assembly according to claims 2 and 3 taken together, in which on the one hand the first holding portion (34) either goes all the way around the primary electrochemical element (4) around the first central axis (XX), or is interrupted circumferentially around the first central axis, or is an inner annular portion of a connecting plate and / or on the other hand the second holding portion (36) either goes all the way around the rechargeable electrical element (6) around the second central axis, or is interrupted circumferentially around the second central axis.

5. Assembly according to claim 4, in which - either the first holding portion (34) extends along the entire length of the primary electrochemical element (4) along the first central axis, - either the primary electrochemical element protrudes axially from the first holding portion.

6. Assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 5, in which the first holding portion (34) has a wall thickness (E1) greater than 0.200 mm, in particular greater than 0.300 mm, and / or the second holding portion (36) has a wall thickness (E2) greater than 0.200 mm, in particular greater than 0.300 mm, and / or the holding element (14) is made of plastic material, in particular non-heat-shrinkable.

7. Assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 6, in which the holding element (14) comprises a cap (38), provided with a peripheral wall (40) and an end wall (42), and in which the first holding portion comprises the peripheral wall.

8. Assembly according to claim 7, in which the second holding portion (36) comprises the end wall, and optionally the peripheral wall (40).

9. Assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 8, in which the first holding portion (34) comprises an axial stop (44).

10. Assembly according to one of claims 7 to 9, in which the second holding portion (36) comprises positioning projections, and / or the first holding portion (34) comprises either a peripheral wall (40) extending from the connecting portion, or an inner annular portion. 1 1. Assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 10, in which the holding element comprises a connecting portion (37) which connects the first holding portion (34) and the second holding portion (36).

12. Assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in which the rechargeable electrical element is coated with a sealing material (72), in particular polymer resin.

13. An assembly according to claim 12, wherein the sealing material has the physical property that the maximum percentage of water absorption after 30 days according to method 1 of ISO 62:2008, 3rd edition, is less than or equal to 1.0% and preferably less than or equal to 0.2%.

14. Method of manufacturing an assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the following successive steps: - provide the primary electrochemical element (4), - provide the rechargeable electrical element (6), - provide the holding element (14), - electrically connect the rechargeable electrical element in parallel to the primary electrochemical element, - applying the rechargeable electrical element to the second positioning surfaces (32), - applying the primary electrochemical element to the first positioning surfaces (30), - fix the rechargeable electrical element on the holding element (14), and - fix the primary electrochemical element on the holding element (14).

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