Modular battery housing, battery, electric vehicle, arrangement, method for arranging a modular battery housing and use of battery modules

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular battery housing for a battery, in particular for a traction battery, for an electric vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle belonging to the group comprising utility vehicles, special-purpose vehicles and mobile machines, the battery housing having a longitudinal axis and having a number of battery modules which each have a module housing in which battery modules are arranged vertically one above the other in at least two module levels, wherein upper battery modules of the upper module level are supported by a lower battery module of the lower module level, and wherein upper battery modules of the upper module level are arranged to receive at least one frame cross member of a support frame of the electric vehicle along the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing at a distance from one another on the lower battery module of the lower module level such that at least one receiving space for receiving the at least one frame cross member is arranged between upper battery modules.

Description

[0001] MODULAR BATTERY HOUSING, BATTERY, ELECTRIC VEHICLE, ARRANGEMENT, METHOD FOR ARRANGING A MODULAR BATTERY HOUSING AND USE OF BATTERY MODULES

[0002] The invention relates to a modular battery housing for a battery, in particular for a traction battery, for an electric vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle belonging to the group of commercial vehicles, special vehicles and mobile work machines, with a longitudinal axis and with a plurality of battery modules, each with a module housing.

[0003] The invention further relates to a battery, in particular a traction battery, for an electric vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle belonging to the group of commercial vehicles, special vehicles and mobile work machines.

[0004] The invention also relates to an electric vehicle for transporting persons and / or goods, in particular trucks.

[0005] The invention further relates to an arrangement comprising an electric vehicle with a supporting frame having at least two frame longitudinal members and at least one frame cross member and a modular battery housing with a plurality of battery modules.

[0006] The invention further relates to a method for arranging a modular battery housing on an electric vehicle.

[0007] The invention also relates to a use of battery modules of a modular battery housing.

[0008] Currently, discussions about environmental protection and electromobility are omnipresent. Electric vehicles are emission-free during operation. Unlike combustion engines, they do not produce any direct emissions.

[0009] Various state-of-the-art solutions exist for making motor vehicles or vehicles fully electric or hybrid. To achieve this, the design of the motor vehicle or vehicle in question is often adapted to the drive type or planned that way from the outset.

[0010] Known examples include DE 10 2012 000 812 A1, DE 10 2019 118 392 A1, DE 10 2019 208 949 A1, EP 3 174 132 A1 and WO 2022 / 115 126 A1.

[0011] However, from an ecological perspective, it is not sustainable to constantly produce a new vehicle just to have a fully electric or hybrid electric vehicle. Because every new electric vehicle that has to be produced is not ecologically sound.

[0012] The present invention is based on the object of providing an improvement or an alternative to the prior art.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the invention, the stated object is achieved by a modular battery housing for a battery, in particular for a traction battery, for an electric vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle belonging to the group of commercial vehicles, special vehicles and mobile work machines, with a longitudinal axis and with a plurality of battery modules, each with a module housing, in which battery modules are arranged vertically one above the other in at least two module levels, wherein upper battery modules of the upper module level are carried by a lower battery module of the lower module level, and wherein upper battery modules of the upper module level are arranged spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing on the lower battery module of the lower module level for receiving at least one frame cross member of a support frame of the electric vehicle,that at least one receiving space for receiving the at least one frame cross member is arranged between upper battery modules.,

[0014] The modular battery housing constructed in this way makes it possible to adapt a battery, especially a traction battery, to almost any different vehicle geometries and to install it in an electric vehicle chassis in a space-optimized manner.

[0015] The following terminology should be explained: It should be expressly pointed out that in the context of this patent application, indefinite articles and indefinite numerical expressions such as "one...", "two...", etc. are generally to be understood as "at least one...", "at least two...", etc., unless it emerges from the context or the concrete text of a particular passage that only "exactly one...", "exactly two...", etc. are meant.

[0016] Furthermore, all numerical data as well as information on process parameters and / or device parameters are to be understood in the technical sense, i.e. as being subject to the usual tolerances.

[0017] Even the explicit specification of the restriction “at least” or “at least” or similar does not imply that the simple use of “a”, i.e. without specifying “at least” or similar, means “exactly one”.

[0018] The modular battery housing can be constructed to be particularly stable and, in particular, particularly rigid if the modular battery housing has a single lower battery module on which at least two upper battery modules are arranged.

[0019] In particular, at least two upper battery modules are advantageously supported by a single lower battery module, eliminating the need for additional components to support the individual battery modules. This also allows the modular battery housing to be constructed particularly compactly.

[0020] The present modular battery housing can be integrated extremely compactly into an electric vehicle if, on the one hand, the modular battery housing can be arranged in the direction of its longitudinal axis between two frame longitudinal members of the supporting frame of the electric vehicle and, on the other hand, at least one frame cross member of the supporting frame of the electric vehicle can be arranged in the modular battery housing.

[0021] If the at least one receiving space is arranged on the upper module level so that it can be displaced in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing, the present modular battery housing can be adapted particularly easily to differently positioned frame cross members of the support frame. The modular battery housing can also be particularly well adapted to differently dimensioned frame cross members of the support frame if the at least one receiving space has a variably adjustable width in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing.

[0022] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the at least one receiving space has a height that corresponds at least to the height of an upper battery module. This allows the at least one frame cross member to be arranged completely next to the upper battery modules.

[0023] The modular battery housing can be designed to be very rigid despite the excellent integrity of the at least one frame cross member if the at least one receiving space is bounded at the bottom by the lower battery module, in particular by its module housing, and laterally in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing by upper battery modules, in particular by module housings thereof. In particular, with such a construction, the lower module level can continue to be designed to be continuous along the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing and thus extremely rigid.

[0024] Furthermore, the modular battery housing can be mounted on an electric vehicle particularly easily transversely to the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing if the at least one receiving space is open at the top and transversely to the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing.

[0025] If the distance between two upper battery modules in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing is variably adjustable, the modular battery housing can be particularly easily adapted to frame cross members with different distances from each other.

[0026] Furthermore, to ensure excellent flexural rigidity of the modular battery housing, it is advantageous if the lower battery module has an elongated base body of the modular battery housing, which extends along the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing. In this respect, it is particularly advantageous if the upper battery modules each have a structural body arranged on an elongated base body of the modular battery housing. This allows the structural bodies to be advantageously supported by the base body and eliminates the need for a separate support device.

[0027] In particular, battery elements of the present battery or traction battery can be well protected in the modular battery housing if the battery modules each have a module housing for accommodating at least one battery element, preferably a plurality of battery elements.

[0028] In the context of the invention, the term “battery elements” describes storage elements for storing electrical energy, often also referred to as battery cells or the like.

[0029] Preferably, such a battery element for temporarily storing electrical energy has a plurality of battery and / or capacitor cells.

[0030] The modular battery housing can be particularly advantageously equipped with a plurality of battery elements if the respective module housing has an insertion direction for inserting the at least one battery element, wherein the insertion direction is arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing.

[0031] A plurality of battery elements can be reliably stored on the modular battery housing if the respective module housing has at least two receiving rows for vertically stacking at least two battery elements.

[0032] In this case, such a receiving row represents at least one slot for inserting and holding at least one battery cell element in the modular battery housing. If the respective module housing of the upper battery module of the upper module level has a single receiving row, the upper battery modules of the modular battery housing can be constructed so narrow that at least one receiving space for accommodating at least one frame cross member can still advantageously be arranged between them.

[0033] The lower module level or its elongated base body can be designed to be continuous along the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing if the module housing of the lower battery module of the lower module level has at least two receptacle rows which are arranged horizontally next to one another in the longitudinal direction of the modular battery housing.

[0034] This allows the upper battery modules to be positioned almost anywhere along the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing and on the lower module level.

[0035] The lower module level can be made even more rigid in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing if the module housing of the lower battery module has a support structure by means of which the upper battery modules are carried.

[0036] The present modular battery housing can be integrated with even greater precision if the upper module level is narrower in a first head region of the modular battery housing than in a second head region of the modular battery housing opposite the first head region.

[0037] Such a construction is particularly advantageous if, for example, the installation space between two frame longitudinal members is approximately conical.

[0038] The two head areas of the mobile battery housing are opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis of the mobile battery housing.

[0039] According to a second aspect of the invention, the object of the invention is also achieved by a battery, in particular a traction battery, for an electric vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle from the group of commercial vehicles, special-purpose vehicles, and mobile work machines, wherein the battery can be inserted into an assembly space of the electric vehicle, and wherein the battery has a modular battery housing according to one of the features described here, and wherein the battery has a plurality of battery modules. It is proposed that the battery modules each have a module housing.

[0040] The proposed battery can therefore be implemented particularly advantageously in an electric vehicle.

[0041] In particular, a battery, in particular a traction battery, for an electric vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle belonging to the group of commercial vehicles, special vehicles and mobile work machines, is advantageous, wherein the battery has a modular battery housing with a longitudinal extension, wherein the modular battery housing has at least two module levels with battery modules arranged vertically one above the other, wherein a lower battery module has a support structure on which upper battery modules are arranged spaced apart from one another.

[0042] In particular, this makes it particularly easy to convert vehicles.

[0043] The term “conversion” in this context means that an existing or used vehicle serves as a basis for electrifying it.

[0044] This means that vehicles that have already been manufactured can continue to be used without having to produce a new vehicle with an adapted vehicle concept to create an electric vehicle.

[0045] On the one hand, this reduces the planning effort and costs for new production, and on the other hand, it increases the sustainability of vehicles through reuse. Increasing sustainability also reduces CO2 emissions.

[0046] A battery, in this case, is generally an electrochemical storage device for electrical energy. An accumulator is a rechargeable battery. A rechargeable battery is disclosed here. Rechargeable batteries are also referred to as secondary batteries.

[0047] The assembly space of the electric vehicle may be an area on a chassis of the electric vehicle.

[0048] This can also be an assembly room that is closed off from the outside and is formed in the interior of the electric vehicle.

[0049] The modular battery housing is preferably made of steel. In particular, it is preferred that the steel be in the form of sheet metal.

[0050] The sheet preferably has an average thickness in the range of 0.6 mm to 4 mm, particularly preferably the sheet has an average thickness of 1 mm.

[0051] The modular battery housing preferably has mounting elements by means of which it can preferably be fixed to the electric vehicle.

[0052] The battery modules make it particularly easy to repair a battery with a defective cell.

[0053] Individual battery modules can, for example, be removed from the battery and replaced or repaired.

[0054] The battery modules can enable easy pre-assembly of the battery, as they can be inserted into different sizes of different modular battery housings.

[0055] The present battery preferably has electrical connections and interfaces for external systems that are not exclusively assigned to a drive system.

[0056] In one embodiment, the modular battery housing and / or the battery within the module housing each has n cells, each with at least one positive and at least one negative electrode, where n is greater than or equal to two.

[0057] Advantageously, the n cells are battery and / or capacitor cells. Preferably, n is in the range between 100 and 400, preferably between 150 and 300, and particularly preferably between 160 and 200. This enables advantageous storage and release of electrical energy.

[0058] The battery housing is preferably designed to accommodate 20 to 60 battery modules.

[0059] The battery capacity can be increased by combining as many cells as possible. The maximum number of cells can be achieved by the sheer number of cells and / or by a large number of battery modules, which in turn contain the cells.

[0060] It is advantageous to be able to store as many cells and / or battery modules as possible within a battery, as this can increase the energy per charge, i.e. the electrical voltage, and thus also the energy content of the battery.

[0061] Several cells are usually also referred to as subassemblies, cell groups or cell assemblies, so that battery elements can advantageously be provided from them.

[0062] The cells can be connected in either series and / or parallel. A combination of series and parallel connections can also be present.

[0063] Such combinations are usually referred to as a block. In electrical engineering, a series connection (or voltage divider circuit depending on the application) describes the connection of two or more cells in series in a circuit such that they form a single current path. Two cells are therefore connected in series if their electrical connection has no branch. Theoretically, the number of cells connected in series is any. The counterpart to a series connection is another essential basic circuit: the parallel connection. In electrical engineering, a parallel connection, or shunt connection, is the connection of two-pole cells or networks such that all of their like-named poles are connected together. If opposite poles are connected in polarized cells, this is called an anti-parallel circuit. Theoretically, the number of cells connected in parallel is any.

[0064] The battery may have a protective device and / or a monitoring circuit.

[0065] The protective device and / or monitoring circuit can be a battery management system (BMS) or simply battery management.

[0066] The protective device and / or monitoring circuit is a measure, usually an electronic circuit, used to monitor, control, and protect batteries. The protective device and / or monitoring circuit is, in particular, a device from the group comprising charge level detection, deep discharge protection, overcharge protection, voltage switching, overcurrent shutdown, and complex systems with data interfaces to higher-level devices in an electric vehicle. Particularly preferably, the protective device and / or monitoring circuit has electrical connections and interfaces for external systems.

[0067] In many batteries, the BMS also includes automatic switching of the power supply between different energy sources. The switching can be a switching between operating the electric vehicle with electrical energy from the battery or electrical energy from another energy source. The other energy source can be, for example, a charger or an interface with a limited power supply. A limited power interface is understood to be an energy source that, at least temporarily, can provide less energy and / or cannot provide a constant voltage than the electric vehicle requires at a specific moment. The specific moment could be, for example, an acceleration of the electric vehicle or a consumer that is coupled to the electric vehicle. Such a consumer could, for example, be part of a structure of the electric vehicle.A fuel cell can be present in the electric vehicle as a limited power interface.

[0068] Depending on the current power of the limited-supply interface, an electrical consumer in the electric vehicle, for example an electric motor for driving the electric vehicle, can either charge the battery or directly supply the electric motor with electrical energy.

[0069] The protective device and / or the monitoring circuit can also be designed so that both electrical energy from the battery and from the supply via the data interface is fed to a consumer, for example an electric motor of the electric vehicle.

[0070] Battery operating data can also be displayed or saved for service purposes. Battery management, preferably for open lead or NiCd cells, also includes replenishing any missing water.

[0071] BMS can be necessary especially when several battery cells are connected in series to form a battery, especially with lithium batteries.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, the n cells are preferably battery and / or capacitor cells.

[0073] The cells are preferably lithium cells, particularly preferably lithium polymer cells.

[0074] A lithium cell, more precisely a Li-ion cell, is usually made up of the following main components: cathode, anode, electrolyte and separator.

[0075] The cell type is usually named after the cathode material used. Examples include NCM cells and LFP cells.

[0076] In one embodiment, the cells are lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NCM) cells. NCM is characterized by the main components nickel, cobalt, and manganese, in addition to lithium, while LFP contains the main components iron and phosphate, in addition to lithium.

[0077] NCM batteries are the most widely used lithium technology in the battery industry due to their consistently high quality and high energy density. Within the global battery market, the share of NCM battery production capacity is steadily growing.

[0078] The NCM battery generally has a higher rated power and energy density compared to the LFP battery because it usually has a higher lithium diffusion rate and electron mobility.

[0079] While lithium ions in conventional NCM cells can move in two different directions, lithium ions in conventional LFP cells can only move in one direction. As a result, the lithium diffusion coefficient of NCM cells is many times faster than that of LFP cells. In terms of electron mobility, NCM cells are approximately 1,000 times faster than LFP cells. Since both the mobility of lithium and electrons are higher, such an NCM cell can achieve higher rated power and energy density.

[0080] The charge-discharge curves of NCM cells and LFP cells generally differ significantly: The state of charge (SOC) of NCM cells typically exhibits a clearly linear dependence on cell voltage. Due to a very flat charge-discharge curve, the state of charge of an LFP battery often cannot be determined from the cell voltage. As a result, SOC determination for NCM cells is generally easier using a voltage measurement, whereas the precise determination of SOC for LFP cells is more complex.

[0081] Typically, the accuracy of SOC determination for NCM cells is 1 to 2%, while for LFP cells, this can vary by up to 10%. If an accurate SOC calculation is not possible, the probability that a cell and / or the battery is operating outside the desired range is higher, which can lead to significantly greater performance degradation. The cells preferably have a 4S1P configuration.

[0082] To clarify: The nominal voltage of a lithium polymer cell, for example, is 3.7 V. If the voltage is to be 7.4 V, two cells must be connected in series (so that the voltages add up). A 2S configuration means two cells are connected in series. A 4S configuration means four cells are connected in series. So a four-cell (4S) pack is 14.8 V. The voltage is usually measured halfway between fully charged and fully discharged based on a 0.2 C discharge (where C is the nominal capacity of the cell in mAh). An individual lithium cell nominal voltage is usually specified as either 3.6 V, 3.7 V, or 3.8 V.

[0083] A lithium cell pack typically consists of two or more cells connected in series for increased voltage of 7.4 V (2S1P), 11.1 V (3S1P), 14.8 V (4S1P), 18.5 V (5S1P), or more, connected in parallel to achieve increased battery capacity. A pack configuration of cells is thus indicated by the number of cells in series and the number of cells in parallel. A 4S2P configuration would accordingly have four cells in series and two cells in parallel, using a total of 8 cells.

[0084] Battery capacity is typically the amount of electrical charge a battery can deliver at its theoretical nominal voltage. In other words, it's a measure of how much energy the battery can hold. The unit is ampere-hours, usually milliampere-hours (mAh or mA h).

[0085] Definition: The electric charge Q (Ah) in ampere-hours is equal to the electric charge Q (mAh) in milliamperes divided by 1000:

[0086] Q (Ah) = Q (mAh) / 1000

[0087] The ampere-hour corresponds to one milliampere-hour divided by 1000:

[0088] Amp hours = milliamp hours / 1000 or Ah = mAh / 1000.

[0089] The capacity of your battery is generally determined by how long it can supply electrical energy before needing to be recharged. The higher the number, the longer the runtime. A battery module preferably has a capacity of 100 to 350 ampere hours. In particular, a battery module in a 4S1 P configuration preferably has a calculated capacity of 177 Ah. With this capacity, a nominal module voltage preferably corresponds to between 14.4 V and 15.2 V and a nominal energy of approximately 2.60 kWh.

[0090] Unlike batteries, capacitor cells store electrical energy in an electric field, allowing them to be charged and discharged much faster. Capacitor cells are usually unable to maintain a constant voltage during discharge. This effect can preferably be compensated for by the BMS in the manner described above.

[0091] The capacitor cells can also be hybrid or supercapacitor cells. Hybrid or supercapacitor cells can store electrical energy both statically and chemically through a reversible redox reaction.

[0092] The capacitor cells can be connected together (in series and / or parallel) to form a battery. This connection achieves a higher operating voltage. A combination of series and parallel connections of the capacitor cells can also be used.

[0093] In one embodiment, the module housing forms one of the electrical connection poles.

[0094] A design in which the module housing forms one of the electrical connection poles can simplify the electrical connection between multiple module housings. This design is particularly preferred for cells connected in parallel.

[0095] In one embodiment, the battery modules have an identical basic structure.

[0096] Pre-assembly of battery modules is particularly easy for battery modules that have an identical basic structure. This identical design eliminates the need to adapt battery modules to their respective installation position, location, or different batteries. The identically constructed battery modules can therefore be manufactured independently of the specific battery structure. This enables particularly cost-effective production of a battery with multiple battery modules.

[0097] In one embodiment, the cells in the module housing are constructed identically to one another.

[0098] It is therefore preferable for the individual cells within a module housing to have the same basic structure. Minor deviations, such as performance differences, between individual cells can be compensated for, for example, by the previously described protective device and / or monitoring circuit.

[0099] In one embodiment, two battery modules are combined to form a battery unit. Such a battery unit can preferably be inserted into the battery housing.

[0100] A battery unit preferably comprises two battery modules. This can, for example, simplify installation into the described battery housing, as fewer steps are required to assemble the battery. Preferably, the two battery modules of a battery unit are electrically connected to each other, so that when constructing a battery as described above, only the battery units need to be connected to each other and / or to a central current collector.

[0101] In a particularly useful embodiment, the battery unit has a support structure on which two battery modules are arranged.

[0102] The battery unit and / or the battery modules are preferably designed to be stackable.

[0103] A stackable design of the battery unit and / or the individual battery modules enables several battery units and / or the individual battery modules to be positioned one above the other within the battery housing.

[0104] It may be preferable that in a stackable design, a certain amount of space remains so that connections for cooling and / or electrical systems remain functionally contactable.

[0105] The support structure can have electrical connections by means of which it can be electrically coupled to additional battery units and / or an electrical conductor from the battery housing. The support structure can form an electrical connection of the battery unit.

[0106] Advantageously, the battery unit is designed to be installed in the battery housing.

[0107] In one embodiment, the support structure is designed as a cooling plate.

[0108] In this embodiment, in which the support structure is designed as a cooling plate, heat, which is released, for example, when the cells are loaded and / or unloaded, can be transported away from the cells or the battery modules in a particularly simple manner.

[0109] However, heat can also be introduced into the cells using the cooling plate, for example to bring the cells to a desired operating temperature.

[0110] Particularly preferably, the support structure projects beyond the battery modules on at least one side, so that connections for cooling and / or electrical systems can be positioned at this position.

[0111] Particularly in a stackable design, it is preferred that connections for cooling and / or electrical systems can be led upwards from the battery unit via a connection segment, so that the connections can be connected after positioning within the battery housing.

[0112] It is preferred that the battery unit and / or the individual battery modules are designed such that they can initially be inserted individually into the battery housing. This design is particularly preferably combined with the possibility that the battery unit and / or the individual battery modules are designed so that they can be functionally coupled to electrical connections and / or cooling connections only after they have been inserted into the battery housing. By designing electrical connections and / or cooling connections in this way, which can only be coupled after they have been inserted into the housing, handling of high-voltage battery units and / or the individual battery modules can be avoided.

[0113] The battery units and / or the individual battery modules preferably have a nominal voltage of less than or equal to 60 volts.

[0114] At a low nominal voltage, the individual battery units and / or the individual battery modules may require lower safety measures during handling, since the individual battery units and / or the individual battery modules are in an unconnected state.

[0115] Preferably, the cells are arranged within the battery module in such a way that any heat potentially generated during charging and / or discharging of the cells is released directly into the area of ​​the cooling plate. It can therefore be provided that electrical conductors for the respective cells are arranged on the underside of the cells in order to dissipate heat specifically in this area with the cooling plate.

[0116] In one embodiment, the support structure has at least one fluid channel through which a cooling medium can flow. It can be provided that the fluid channel can distribute heat that occurs in the area of ​​the support structure throughout the support structure, thus balancing out individual warmer or colder areas.

[0117] Preferably, the battery can be coupled to an external cooling system by means of which the cooling medium can flow through the liquid channel.

[0118] In a practical embodiment, it is advantageous if the battery housing has struts to give the battery housing increased strength. The support structure can be arranged, in particular, on a base of the battery housing to increase the strength of the battery housing in this area. These struts can also serve to protect the battery modules. These struts can protect against external mechanical influences that could deform the battery housing and thus also cause damage to the battery modules.

[0119] In one embodiment, the battery housing has mounting areas to firmly connect the battery units to the battery housing.

[0120] These mounting areas can be designed, for example, as rails that can accommodate the battery units in the battery housing. If the battery housing is designed so that the individual battery units and / or battery modules are inserted into the battery housing from above, it is preferred that these rails be arranged vertically. In a design in which the battery housing is designed so that the individual battery units and / or battery modules are inserted into the battery housing from the side, it is preferred that the rails be arranged horizontally.

[0121] In one embodiment, the battery housing is modular in design in order to be adaptable to different receiving spaces of different electric vehicles and / or to different installation positions.

[0122] The modular design of the battery housing can, for example, comprise an elongated base body. The elongated base body is preferably designed such that it can be accommodated in a variety of receiving spaces of different electric vehicles. Several superstructures can be positioned above the elongated base body. The superstructures can be arranged at different positions on the elongated base body, so that, for example, structural elements of the electric vehicle for which the battery is intended can run between the superstructures.

[0123] In one embodiment, the battery has spaced-apart structural members at different positions on the elongated base body. This allows, for example, recesses to be created for structural components of an electric vehicle.

[0124] The modular design allows the internal volume of the battery to be maximized, as the battery housing is particularly easy to adapt to external conditions.

[0125] Integration can be further improved if the battery has recesses for structural components of the electric vehicle.

[0126] Furthermore, it is expedient if the battery unit and / or the battery module is / are designed to be stackable so that several battery units and / or battery modules can be positioned one above the other within the battery housing.

[0127] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the modular battery housing and / or the battery is characterized by at least one of the following additional features, namely that the battery housing is provided for accommodating 20 to 60 battery modules, the battery housing is provided for accommodating 10 to 30 battery units and that the battery modules have a nominal voltage of less than or equal to 60 volts.

[0128] According to a second aspect, the stated problem is solved by an electric vehicle for transporting people and / or goods, in particular a truck, which has a supporting frame as the supporting chassis. Such supporting frames are sometimes also referred to as ladder frames; these terms should be understood as synonyms in the context of this application.

[0129] The supporting frame has at least two longitudinal frame members, which are spaced apart transversely to the vehicle's longitudinal axis, leaving a receiving space between the longitudinal frame members along the vehicle's longitudinal axis. These longitudinal frame members are also referred to as longitudinal beams or longitudinal struts. The supporting frame serves to stabilize the electric vehicle. The supporting frame also has a cross member that connects the longitudinal frame members to each other. These cross members are also referred to as cross beams or cross struts.

[0130] Such a supporting frame is provided to accommodate additional vehicle components. Such vehicle components can be parts of a body and / or other add-on parts. The vehicle components can also be at least parts of a payload. The electric vehicle has a drive unit with at least one axle with a differential, which is connected to the supporting frame. The drive unit has an electric motor for driving the axle. Multiple electric motors can also be provided to drive one axle. Alternatively, multiple electric motors can be provided for each axle.

[0131] The electric vehicle has a battery to store electrical energy for the electric motor.

[0132] It is proposed that the battery of the electric vehicle is arranged in the receiving space between the frame longitudinal members parallel to the vehicle longitudinal axis.

[0133] Preferably, the battery is designed as described above.

[0134] In this case, parallel should be understood to mean that the orientation of the main extension axis of the fuel tanks does not deviate by more than 12 degrees from the main extension axis of the frame longitudinal members.

[0135] In one embodiment, the electric vehicle has a fuel cell in addition to the battery as a source of electrical energy for the electric motor.

[0136] The fuel cell converts the chemical reaction energy of a continuously supplied fuel and an oxidizing agent into electrical energy.

[0137] Typically, an electric vehicle with a fuel cell is equipped with a fuel storage unit to store fuel for the fuel cell. Fuel cell technology in the transportation industry generates electrical energy to power electric vehicles. This conversion of chemical energy into electrical energy has an efficiency of approximately 40-50%. Fuel cells can be powered by hydrogen, low-molecular-weight alcohols (methanol, ethanol), or ammonia, for example. For example, electrical energy is released when hydrogen combines with oxygen molecules to form water. Such an electric vehicle is designed to carry a tank in which the fuel is stored.

[0138] According to a further aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by an arrangement comprising an electric vehicle with a supporting frame having at least two frame longitudinal members and at least one frame cross member and a modular battery housing with a plurality of battery modules, wherein the at least one frame cross member is arranged at least partially within the modular battery housing.

[0139] This allows the battery housing to be integrated particularly deeply between the two frame longitudinal members.

[0140] A mounting space between two frame longitudinal members can be particularly well utilized if frame cross members are arranged to run transversely through the modular battery housing, in particular from a first frame longitudinal member to a second frame longitudinal member arranged opposite the first frame longitudinal member.

[0141] An existing frame cross member can advantageously be integrated into the battery housing or the battery if the at least one frame cross member is arranged between two battery modules.

[0142] A battery can be particularly well protected against external mechanical influences, in particular when these external mechanical influences act laterally on the vehicle or electric vehicle, if all battery modules of the modular battery housing are arranged internally between the at least two frame longitudinal members and that the battery housing or holders thereof are fastened externally to the at least two frame longitudinal members.

[0143] In particular, the modular battery housing can be assembled and disassembled more advantageously by means of brackets attached to the outside of at least two frame longitudinal members.

[0144] Despite the proposed integration, the battery housing can be designed to be particularly rigid if an upper module level of the battery housing is arranged between the at least two frame longitudinal members, and a lower module level of the battery housing is arranged below the at least two frame longitudinal members, in particular completely below the at least two frame longitudinal members.

[0145] In any case, a battery on a vehicle, in particular on an electric vehicle, can be advantageously integrated into a supporting frame using the present mobile battery housing, despite the presence of frame cross members.

[0146] According to a further aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a method for arranging a modular battery housing on an electric vehicle, in which the modular battery housing with pre-assembled battery modules is introduced as a unit from below between at least two frame longitudinal members of the electric vehicle, wherein during the introduction of the modular battery housing between the at least two frame longitudinal members, at least one frame cross member of the electric vehicle is brought between pre-assembled battery modules.

[0147] An advantageous method variant provides that the at least one frame cross member is at least partially sunk into the modular battery housing.

[0148] In this case, at least one frame cross member is inserted from above into a receiving space provided for this purpose.

[0149] This can be achieved by raising the battery housing accordingly and / or lowering the vehicle. The modular battery housing can be particularly tightly connected to the supporting frame if at least one frame cross member is arranged below the top side of the modular battery housing.

[0150] The modular battery housing can be deeply integrated into the supporting frame of the electric vehicle if the at least one frame cross member is arranged above the top surface of a lower module level of the modular battery housing and below the top surface of an upper module level of the modular battery housing. Nevertheless, high flexural rigidity can be achieved in the modular battery housing.

[0151] A battery having the modular battery housing can be arranged on the supporting frame of the electric vehicle in a particularly safe manner if the modular battery housing with pre-assembled battery modules is arranged exclusively on the inside between at least two frame longitudinal members of the electric vehicle.

[0152] According to a further aspect of the invention, the object is also achieved by the use of battery modules of a modular battery housing for forming a receiving space for a frame cross member of an electric vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle belonging to the group of commercial vehicles, special vehicles and mobile work machines.

[0153] By using battery modules, such a storage space can be provided without additional components.

[0154] It is understood that features of the solutions described above or in the claims may also be combined if necessary in order to be able to implement the advantages and effects that can be achieved in this case in a cumulative manner.

[0155] The invention will be explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view from the rear of an electric vehicle designed as a commercial vehicle, with a modular battery housing or with a battery;

[0156] Fig. 2 schematically shows a perspective sectional view of the modular battery housing or battery of Figure 1 in detail; and

[0157] Fig. 3 schematically shows a longitudinal section of the left side of the modular battery housing or battery from Figures 1 and 2.

[0158] The embodiment shown in Figure 1 shows an electric vehicle 100 which is designed as a commercial vehicle (not numbered again), wherein in this embodiment the commercial vehicle is designed as a tractor unit.

[0159] In particular, according to the illustration in Figure 1, the tractor unit is shown without a semi-trailer.

[0160] The electric vehicle 100 has structural components such as a chassis 102 with a supporting frame 10, which is also known as a ladder frame.

[0161] The chassis 102 is designed as a supporting chassis 102.

[0162] In addition to accommodating vehicle components such as a body (not specified again) and a payload, the chassis 102 also serves to accommodate additional add-on parts.

[0163] The chassis 102 is designed in such a way that, in addition to the functions already mentioned, it also serves to stabilize the electric vehicle 100.

[0164] In this exemplary embodiment, the supporting frame 10 has two longitudinal frame members 12, 14, also called longitudinal beams, which run at least in sections parallel to a vehicle longitudinal axis 2.

[0165] Particularly in the front area of ​​the electric vehicle 100, it can be advantageous for the frame longitudinal members 12, 14 not to run parallel to each other, but rather to converge at an angle. Such a design enables easy positioning of the steerable wheels, for example.

[0166] The frame longitudinal members 12, 14 are arranged at a distance from one another transversely to the vehicle longitudinal axis 2, so that an assembly space 4 remains between the frame longitudinal members 12, 14 along the vehicle longitudinal axis 2.

[0167] The supporting frame 10 also has a plurality of frame cross members 16, 18, which are also called cross braces, which connect the frame longitudinal members 12, 14 to each other.

[0168] These frame cross members 16, 18 run transversely to the vehicle’s longitudinal axis 2.

[0169] The electric vehicle 100 has a drive unit with a driven rear axle 22, which has a differential 24 and is connected to the supporting frame 10. The drive unit is not further illustrated in the figures.

[0170] The drive unit has an electric motor (not shown) for driving the axle 22 and a fuel cell (not shown) which is provided as an energy source for the electric motor.

[0171] The electric vehicle 100 also has a fuel storage 199, which is provided for storing a fuel.

[0172] In this embodiment, the fuel comprises hydrogen, which is intended for the fuel cell.

[0173] The fuel storage 199 is only partially visible in Figure 1, as it is covered by side panels and other cladding parts.

[0174] Figures 2 and 3 show a first possible embodiment of a battery 200 with a modular battery housing 202.

[0175] The modular battery housing 202 has a longitudinal axis 210 which, when the modular battery housing 202 or the battery 200 is properly mounted on the support frame 10, runs in the same direction as the longitudinal axis 2 of the electric vehicle 100, namely in the direction of travel 6 of the electric vehicle 100.

[0176] The modular battery housing 202 has two head sides 220.

[0177] The modular battery housing 202 further comprises a plurality of battery modules 300 (numbered here only as an example), wherein each battery module 300 has its own module housing 302 (also numbered only as an example).

[0178] The modular battery housing 202 further comprises at least two module levels 212 and 214, namely a lower module level 212 and an upper module level 214, wherein the two module levels 212 and 214 are arranged vertically one above the other.

[0179] Here, upper battery modules 300 of the upper module level 214 are carried by a single lower battery module 300 of the lower module level 212.

[0180] Furthermore, the modular battery housing 202 has two receiving spaces 203 for receiving the frame cross members 16 and 18 of the support frame 10 of the electric vehicle 100 from Figure 1 into the battery 200, wherein the respective receiving space 203 is a recess in the modular battery housing 202, more precisely on the upper module level 214.

[0181] Here, the front receiving space 203 is arranged between two battery modules 300, namely the front battery module 300 and the middle battery module 300, and the rear receiving space 203 is arranged between the middle battery module 300 and another rear functional module 306.

[0182] In the rear head region 220 (see further functional module 306), the modular battery housing 302 is narrower than in its front head region 220, at least with respect to the upper module levels 214.

[0183] To create the receiving spaces 203, the battery modules 300 and the additional functional module 306 are each spaced apart from each other by a distance 310 (numbered only as an example with respect to Figure 3). The distance 310 between the middle battery module 300 and the functional module 306 is selected to be greater than the distance 310 between the two battery modules 300, since the rear frame cross member 16 is wider than the front frame cross member 18.

[0184] The two upper battery modules 300 and the further functional module 306 of the upper module level 214 can be detachably but firmly fastened to the lower battery module 300 of the lower module level 212 in such a way that the upper modules 300 and 306 are arranged displaceably on the lower module level 212 such that the receiving spaces 203 each have a variably adjustable width 310A (see reference numeral 310).

[0185] Within the scope of the present invention, it has proven advantageous that the positions of the upper modules 300 and 306 can be selected, in particular, depending on electrical connections or the like of the lower module 300. Thus, modules 300 and 306 of the upper module level 214 can interact with the module 300 of the lower module level 212 in a structurally very simple and thus advantageous manner, be it electrically, fluidically, or the like.

[0186] Furthermore, the receiving spaces 203 have a height 311 (shown only as an example in Figure 2), so that the frame cross members 16 and 18, respectively, can preferably be completely accommodated in the respective receiving space 203 with regard to their height (not shown).

[0187] The lower battery module 300 has an elongated base body 222 which extends along the longitudinal axis 210 of the modular battery housing 202, so that the lower module level 212 is extremely rigid.

[0188] Accordingly, on the upper module level 214, structural bodies 224 are arranged on the lower module level 212 and thus on the base body 222, wherein the structural bodies 224 in this embodiment comprise the upper battery modules 300 and the further functional module 306.

[0189] Such battery elements 400A can also be combined into battery units 400 if required. Here, the respective module housing 302 has at least two horizontally oriented receiving rows 314 (numbered only as an example in Figure 2) for vertically stacking at least two battery elements 400A within the respective battery module 300.

[0190] In addition, the respective module housing 302 of the respective upper battery module 300 has a single vertically oriented receptacle row 316 on the upper module level 214 (numbered only as an example in Figure 2).

[0191] In contrast, the module housing 302 of the single lower battery module 300 of the lower module tier 212 has at least two receptacle rows 316.

[0192] For an advantageously increased load-bearing capacity, the lower module level 212 has a reinforced support structure 402, in particular the elongated base body 222 thereof.

[0193] Such a reinforced support structure 402 has partially provided reinforcement areas, reinforcement elements or the like, such as thickened wall areas, additional struts or the like.

[0194] By means of the modular battery housing 202, the battery 200 can also be designed modularly.

[0195] The battery 200 is therefore also designed as a modular battery 200 and has an elongated base body 222 on its underside (lower module level 212).

[0196] In this embodiment, the three structural bodies 224 are positioned above the elongated base body 222.

[0197] Two of these structural bodies 224 are also designed to accommodate 400A battery elements.

[0198] A third, smaller body 224 is provided for accommodating a protective device and a monitoring circuit. The battery 200 has three mounting elements 208 (see Figure 1) on each side along its main extension axis (see longitudinal axis 210), with which it can be secured to the support frame 10 (right and left frame longitudinal members 14, 16) of the electric vehicle 100.

[0199] The mounting elements 208 (see Figure 1) are intended to be screwed to the frame longitudinal members 12, 14 of the electric vehicle 100.

[0200] The two recesses 203 are arranged between the body bodies 224, wherein these recesses 203 are positioned such that the frame cross members 16, 18 of the electric vehicle 100 can run in this area provided thereby.

[0201] According to the illustration in Figure 2, the battery 200 from Figure 1 is shown in a sectional view without battery elements 400A. Struts 204 are arranged at the bottom of the battery 200 or the elongated base body 222, which increase the strength of the battery housing 202.

[0202] Mounting areas 206 are arranged laterally in the elongated base body 222 and are provided for connecting battery units 400 to the battery housing 202.

[0203] The mounting areas 206 are designed as rail elements (not numbered again) which can be equipped with the battery elements and / or battery modules 300 from above.

[0204] Mounting areas 206 are also arranged in the structural bodies 224. The mounting areas 206 in the structural bodies 224 are rotated by 90 degrees relative to the mounting areas 206 of the elongated base body 222, i.e., they are arranged on the respective end faces.

[0205] In this respect, the elongated base body 222 and the superstructure bodies 224 have insertion directions rotated relative to each other for inserting battery elements 400A. According to the illustration in Figure 3, the battery 200 from Figures 1 and 2 is shown from the side. The plurality of battery modules 300, which are equipped with battery elements 400A, can be seen.

[0206] In this illustration, two or three battery elements 400A are shown in a sectional view in each battery module 300.

[0207] The battery modules 300 have a partially identical basic structure.

[0208] Two or three battery elements 400A are combined to form a battery unit 400.

[0209] The battery elements 400A each stand on a support structure 402, which is designed as a cooling plate 404.

[0210] The cooling plates 404 each have a liquid channel 406 through which a cooling medium, in this case a cooling liquid, can flow.

[0211] Each of the support structures 402 has a cooling medium inlet (not explicitly shown here) and a cooling medium outlet (also not explicitly shown here).

[0212] The support structures 402, which are stacked one above the other, are coupled in series to the cooling medium.

[0213] This means that the outlet of the lowest support structure 402 is fluidically connected to the inlet of the support structure 402 arranged above it or is fluidly connected to this fluid.

[0214] The fluid channels 406 are coupled outside the battery 200 to an external cooling system of the electric vehicle 100 (not shown here).

[0215] Through this external cooling system, the heat absorbed by the cooling fluid of the battery 200 is absorbed and can be dissipated, for example, into the environment. Electrical connection elements 320 (see Figure 2 only) are visible, which electrically contact the stacked battery elements 400A at their electrical connection terminals 304.

[0216] The 400A battery elements stacked on top of each other are connected in series with the electrical connecting elements 320.

[0217] No battery unit 400 or battery elements 400A are arranged in the small body 224 (cf. further functional module 306).

[0218] This small body 224 is intended to house the protective device or the monitoring circuit, which, however, are still installed according to the illustration in Figure 3.

[0219] In any case, according to the illustration in Figure 1, an arrangement is made up of the electric vehicle 100 with its supporting frame 10 having the two frame longitudinal members 12 and 14 and the two frame cross members 16 and 18, and of the modular battery housing 202 with its plurality of battery modules 300, wherein the arrangement is characterized in particular in that the frame cross members 16 and 18 are arranged at least partially within the modular battery housing 202.

[0220] The embodiment shown here represents only one possible example of the present invention and should therefore not be construed as limiting. Alternative embodiments contemplated by those skilled in the art are equally encompassed within the scope of the present invention.

[0221] List of reference symbols

[0222] 2 Vehicle longitudinal axis

[0223] 4 Assembly room

[0224] 10 supporting frames

[0225] 12 right frame longitudinal member

[0226] 14 left frame longitudinal member

[0227] 16 rear frame cross member

[0228] 18 front frame cross member

[0229] 100 electric vehicles

[0230] 102 Chassis or supporting chassis

[0231] 199 fuel storage

[0232] 200 battery

[0233] 202 modular battery housing

[0234] 203 recesses or recording spaces

[0235] 204 Bracing

[0236] 206 Assembly area

[0237] 208 Mounting element

[0238] 210 Longitudinal axis of the modular battery housing

[0239] 212 lower module floor

[0240] 214 upper module floors

[0241] 220 head pages

[0242] 222 elongated body

[0243] 224 superstructure bodies

[0244] 300 battery modules

[0245] 302 module housing

[0246] 304 electrical connection poles

[0247] 306 additional functional module

[0248] 310 distance

[0249] 310A variable width

[0250] 311 height

[0251] 314 recording lines

[0252] 316 series of shots

[0253] 320 electrical connecting elements 400 battery units

[0254] 400A battery elements

[0255] 402 Support structure 404 Cooling plate

[0256] 406 Fluid channel

Claims

Patent claims 1 . Modular battery housing (202) for a battery (200), in particular for a traction battery (199), for an electric vehicle belonging to the group of commercial vehicles, special vehicles and mobile work machines, with a longitudinal axis (210), and with a plurality of battery modules (300), each with a module housing (302), in which battery modules (300) are arranged vertically one above the other in at least two module levels (212, 214), wherein upper battery modules (300) of the upper module level (214) are carried by a lower battery module (300) of the lower module level (212), and wherein upper battery modules (300) of the upper module level (214) are spaced apart from one another on the lower module level (212) along the longitudinal axis (210) of the modular battery housing (202) at a distance (310) from one another Battery module (300) of the lower module level (212) are arranged,wherein at least one receiving space (203) for receiving the at least one frame cross member (16, 18) is arranged between upper battery modules (300). Modular battery housing (202) according to claim 1, characterized in that the modular battery housing (202) has a single lower battery module (300) on which at least two upper battery modules (300) are arranged.

3. Modular battery housing (202) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, on the one hand, the modular battery housing (202) can be arranged in the direction of its longitudinal axis (210) between two frame longitudinal members (12, 14) of the support frame (10) of the electric vehicle (100) and that, on the other hand, at least one frame cross member (16, 18) of the support frame (10) of the electric vehicle (100) can be arranged in the modular battery housing (202).

4. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the at least one receiving space (203) is arranged on the upper module level (214) so ​​as to be displaceable in the direction of the longitudinal axis (210) of the modular battery housing (202).

5. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the at least one receiving space (203) has a variably adjustable width (310A) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (210) of the modular battery housing (202).

6. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the at least one receiving space (203) has a height (311) which corresponds at least to the height (311) of an upper battery module (300).

7. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the at least one receiving space (203) is delimited at the bottom by the lower battery module (300), in particular by its module housing (302), and laterally in the direction of the longitudinal axis (210) of the modular battery housing (202) by upper battery modules (300), in particular by module housings (302) thereof.

8. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the at least one receiving space (203) is open at the top and transversely to the longitudinal axis (210) of the modular battery housing (202).

9. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the distance (310) between two upper battery modules (300) is variably adjustable in the direction of the longitudinal axis (210) of the modular battery housing (20).

10. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the lower battery module (300) has an elongated base body (222) of the modular battery housing (202), which extends along the longitudinal axis (210) of the modular battery housing (202).

11. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the upper battery modules (300) each have a structural body (224) which is arranged on an elongated base body (222) of the modular battery housing (202).

12. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the battery modules (300) each have a module housing (300) for receiving at least one battery element (400), preferably a plurality of battery elements (400).

13. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the respective module housing (300) has an insertion direction for inserting the at least one battery element (400A), wherein the insertion direction is arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis (210) of the modular battery housing (202).

14. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the respective module housing (302) has at least two receiving rows (314) for vertically superimposing at least two battery elements (400A).

15. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the respective module housing (302) of the respective upper battery module (300) of the upper module level (214) has a single receiving row (316).

16. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the module housing (302) of the lower battery module (300) of the lower module level (212) has at least two receiving rows (316) which are arranged horizontally next to one another in the longitudinal direction (210) of the modular battery housing (202).

17. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the module housing (302) of the lower battery module (300) has a support structure (402) by means of which the upper battery modules (300) are carried.

18. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the upper module level (214) is narrower in a first head region (220) of the modular battery housing (202) than in a second head region (220) of the modular battery housing (202) opposite the first head region (220).

19. Battery (200), in particular a traction battery (200), for an electric vehicle (100), in particular for an electric vehicle belonging to the group of commercial vehicles, special-purpose vehicles and mobile work machines, wherein a. the battery (200) can be inserted into an assembly space (4) of the electric vehicle (100), and wherein b. the battery (200) has a modular battery housing (202) according to one of the preceding claims, and wherein c. the battery (200) has a plurality of battery modules (300), and wherein d. the battery modules (300) each have a module housing (302).

20. Modular battery housing (202) according to one of claims 1 to 18 and / or battery (200) according to claim 19, wherein a. n cells each having at least one positive and at least one negative electrode are arranged within the module housing (302), and b. n is greater than or equal to two.

21. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the n cells are battery and / or capacitor cells.

22. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that n is in the range between 100 and 400, preferably between 150 and 300, particularly preferably between 160 and 200.

23. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cells are connected in series.

24. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the module housing (302) forms one of the electrical connection poles (304).

25. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery modules (300) have an identical basic structure to one another.

26. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cells in the module housing (302) are identical to one another. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two battery modules (300) are combined to form a battery unit (400). Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery unit (400) has a support structure (402) on which two battery modules (300) are arranged. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery unit (400) is intended for installation in the battery housing (202). Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a support structure (402) is designed as a cooling plate (404).Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a support structure (402) has at least one liquid channel (406) through which a cooling medium can flow. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery (200) can be coupled to an external cooling system, by means of which the cooling medium can flow through the liquid channel (406). Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery housing (202) has struts (204) to increase its strength.

34. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery housing (202) has mounting areas (206) by means of which the battery units (400) and / or the battery modules (300) can be firmly connected to the battery housing (202).

35. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery housing (202) is modularly constructed for adaptation to different mounting spaces (4) of different electric vehicles (100) and / or to different installation positions.

36. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery (200) has recesses (203) for structural components of the electric vehicle (100).

37. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery unit (400) and / or the battery module (300) is / are designed to be stackable, so that several battery units (400) and / or battery modules (300) can be positioned one above the other on the battery housing (202).

38. Modular battery housing (202) and / or battery (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one of the following additional features: a. the battery housing (202) is provided for accommodating 20 to 60 battery modules (300) b. the battery housing (202) is provided for accommodating 10 to 30 battery units (400) c. the battery modules (300) have a nominal voltage of less than or equal to 60 volts. Electric vehicle (100), belonging to the group of commercial vehicles, special vehicles and mobile work machines, for transporting persons and / or goods, in particular trucks, wherein: the electric vehicle (100) has a supporting frame (10) as a supporting chassis (102), and wherein the supporting frame (10) has at least two frame longitudinal members (12, 14) which run at least in sections parallel to a vehicle longitudinal axis (2) and are spaced apart from one another transversely to the vehicle longitudinal axis (2), so that an assembly space (4) remains between the frame longitudinal members (12, 14) along the vehicle longitudinal axis (2), and wherein the supporting frame (10) has a plurality of frame cross members (16, 18) which interconnect the frame longitudinal members (12, 14) and which run transversely to the vehicle longitudinal axis (2), and wherein the electric vehicle (100) has a drive unit with at least one axle (22) with a differential (24),which is connected to the support frame (10), and wherein the drive unit has an electric motor for driving the axle (22), and wherein the electric vehicle (100) has a battery (200) for storing electrical energy for the electric motor, wherein, the battery (200) and / or a modular battery housing (202) thereof is arranged in the mounting space (4) between the frame longitudinal members (12, 14) parallel to the vehicle longitudinal axis (2), and the battery (200) and / or the modular battery housing (202) are designed according to one of claims 1 to 38. Electric vehicle (100) according to claim 39, wherein the electric vehicle (100) has a fuel cell as an energy source for the electric motor. Arrangement comprising an electric vehicle (100), in particular according to one of claims 39 or 40, with a supporting frame (10) having at least two frame longitudinal members (12, 14) and at least one frame cross member (16, 18) and a modular battery housing (202), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 39, with a plurality of battery modules (300), characterized in that the at least one frame cross member (16, 18) is arranged at least partially within the modular battery housing (202).Arrangement according to claim 41, characterized in that the frame cross member (16, 18) is arranged to run transversely through the modular battery housing, in particular from a first frame longitudinal member (12, 14) to a second frame longitudinal member (12, 14) arranged opposite the first frame longitudinal member (12, 14). Arrangement according to claim 41 or 42, characterized in that the at least one frame cross member (16, 18) is arranged between two battery modules (300). Arrangement according to one of claims 41 to 43, characterized in that all battery modules (300) of the modular battery housing (202) are arranged internally between the at least two frame longitudinal members (12, 14), and that the battery housing (202) or holders thereof are fastened externally to the at least two frame longitudinal members (12, 14).

45. Arrangement according to one of claims 41 to 44, characterized in that an upper module level of the battery housing (202) is arranged between the at least two frame longitudinal members (12, 14), and a lower module level of the battery housing (202) is arranged below the at least two frame longitudinal members (12, 14), in particular completely below the at least two frame longitudinal members (12, 14).

46. ​​Method for arranging a modular battery housing (202) on an electric vehicle (100), in which the modular battery housing (202) with fully pre-assembled battery modules (300) is introduced as a unit from below between at least two longitudinal frame members (12, 14) of the electric vehicle (100), wherein during the introduction of the modular battery housing (202) between the at least two longitudinal frame members (12, 14) at least one cross-frame member (16, 18) of the electric vehicle (100) is brought between fully pre-assembled battery modules (300).

47. Method according to claim 46, characterized in that the at least one frame cross member (16, 18) is at least partially sunk into the modular battery housing (202).

48. Method according to claim 46 or 47, characterized in that the at least one frame cross member (16, 18) is arranged below an upper side of the modular battery housing (202).

49. Method according to one of claims 46 to 48, characterized in that the at least one frame cross member (16, 18) is arranged above an upper side of a lower module level of the modular battery housing (202) and below an upper side of an upper module level of the modular battery housing (202).

50. Method according to one of claims 46 to 49, characterized in that the modular battery housing (202) with pre-assembled battery modules (300) is arranged exclusively internally between at least two frame longitudinal members (12, 14) of the electric vehicle (100). Use of battery modules (300) of a modular battery housing (202) for forming a receiving space (203) for a frame cross member (16, 18) of an electric vehicle (100), in particular for an electric vehicle (100) belonging to the group of commercial vehicles, special vehicles and mobile work machines.

Images