Tool for securing at least one battery module, associated assembly and method

Abstract

Tool for securing at least one battery module, associated assembly and method The tool comprises: - an electrically insulating rod, - a tip having a mounting region mounted at a distal end of the insulating rod, the tip comprising a head (54) intended to grip a plug (36) for connecting / disconnecting a manual electrical connection / disconnection system configured to be maneuvered in rotation between an electrical connection configuration of the battery module and an electrical disconnection configuration of the battery module. The tip comprises a transmission joint (56) connecting the mounting region to the head (54). Figure for abstract: figure 6

Description

Title of the invention: Tool for securing at least one battery module, associated assembly and method

[0001] The present invention relates to a tool for securing at least one battery module, the battery module comprising at least one manual electrical connection / disconnection system, the tool comprising:

[0002] - an electrically insulating rod,

[0003] - a tip having a mounting region mounted at a distal end of the insulating rod, the tip comprising a head intended to grip a connection / disconnection plug of the manual electrical connection / disconnection system configured to be maneuvered in rotation between an electrical connection configuration of the battery module and an electrical disconnection configuration of the battery module.

[0004] Such a tool is intended in particular for securing battery modules present within a structure defining an interior volume in which the modules are arranged in the form of rows and / or columns.

[0005] The structure containing the battery modules is for example an electrical cabinet (sometimes referred to as a "cabinet"), a transport container comprising a self-supporting structure provided with a floor, peripheral walls and a roof which closes the interior volume or a building.

[0006] The structure containing the battery modules must sometimes be made electrically safe, particularly during transport or handling of the structure.

[0007] To do this, the battery modules generally include at least one manual electrical connection / disconnection system, designated by the English term “Manual Service Disconnect” or “MSD”.

[0008] Some standardized electrical connection / disconnection systems include a base attached to the module, and a connection / disconnection cap.

[0009] The connection / disconnection cap is rotatable between a battery module electrical connection configuration and a battery module electrical disconnection configuration.

[0010] When in its connection configuration, the connection / disconnection cap closes an electrical circuit to electrically connect the battery module and allow it to deliver or receive electrical power.

[0011] The connect / disconnect cap is separable from the base of the manual electrical connect / disconnect system when in the disconnect configuration to open the electrical connection circuit of the battery module and prevent the supply or receipt of electrical power by the battery module. battery.

[0012] Manipulating this connection / disconnection plug between the connection configuration and the disconnection configuration requires the presence of an operator to grasp the connection / disconnection plug and rotate it.

[0013] Given the electrical voltages that can be high for certain battery modules, this can lead to the appearance of electric arcs. The maintenance of battery modules therefore exposes operators to risks of exposure to these arcs.

[0014] Conventionally, it is known to use high-capacity personal protective equipment, for example personal protective equipment according to standard IEC 61482-2, to protect operators from possible electric arcs.

[0015] Such equipment is bulky. It is cumbersome to put on and greatly limits the range of movement of operators. It is uncomfortable, especially when ambient air temperatures are high.

[0016] To facilitate securing a battery module, US 10756552 describes the use of a tool comprising a non-conductive telescopic rod provided with a tip at its distal end relative to an operator. The tool allows the connection / disconnection cap to be maneuvered between the electrical connection configuration and the electrical disconnection configuration.

[0017] The operator is therefore at a distance from the connection / disconnection plug when operating it, being electrically isolated by the rod.

[0018] However, this solution is not entirely satisfactory. Indeed, such a rod, due to its rigidity, complicates maintenance operations when the connection / disconnection system is located at height, or near the ground.

[0019] With such a tool, the operator must bring the axis of the rod into the axis of the connection / disconnection plug to ensure efficient rotation of the connection / disconnection plug. In the case of a manual electrical connection / disconnection system located at height or on the ground, the axis of the rod is offset from the axis of the plug.

[0020] The operator must therefore climb onto a stepladder or bend down, which can be tedious and create risks of injury and poor posture. In addition, if the rotation axis of the connection / disconnection plug is not secured, it is possible to damage it or cause its destruction.

[0021] Furthermore, once disconnected from the base, the connection / disconnection cap is not well retained on the end of the rod. It is therefore likely to fall to the ground in the vicinity of the battery module, once passed into the disconnection configuration.

[0022] If the cap falls to the ground, the operator must put on high-capacity personal protective equipment to retrieve it and impurities (gravel, dust, water, etc.) may be injected into the battery module during the reassembly.

[0023] An aim of the invention is therefore to provide a tool protecting an operator during the electrical connection / disconnection of a battery module, by reducing the constraints on the personal protective equipment that the operator must wear, while allowing efficient and reliable operation of the connection / disconnection system regardless of the height and inclination of the connection / disconnection cap.

[0024] To this end, the invention relates to a safety tool of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the tip comprises a transmission joint connecting the mounting region to the head.

[0025] The safety tool according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation or in any technically possible combination:

[0026] - the head of the tip has at least one notch intended to grip a projection present on the connection / disconnection cap;

[0027] - the insulating rod has a length greater than a minimum length L calculated according to the formula:

[0028] L = ^ a01

[0029] where L is the length of the insulating rod (44) in cm, IEm is the maximum energy value in calories per square centimeter that can be supported by personal protective equipment used when using the insulating rod, Vsys is the maximum voltage in Volts delivered by one or each battery module connected to the manual electrical connection / disconnection system, Ibf is the short-circuit current in amperes of the or each battery module connected to the manual electrical connection / disconnection system;

[0030] - the tool comprises a handle located at one end of the insulating rod opposite the tip, in alignment with the insulating rod;

[0031] - the transmission joint comprises a first fork, a second fork articulated on the first fork, the transmission joint being deformable between a rest position in which the two forks are aligned in alignment with the insulating rod and a working position in which the two forks are misaligned;

[0032] - the end piece includes a system for returning the transmission joint to its position rest;

[0033] - the return system comprises a spring positioned around and outside the seal of transmission;

[0034] - the transmission joint is a Cardan joint;

[0035] - the tip has a protruding lug for retaining the connection / de-plug connection;

[0036] - the lug has at least one conical bearing surface;

[0037] - the tip can be reversibly removed from the insulating rod.;

[0038] The invention also relates to an assembly comprising:

[0039] - at least one battery module comprising at least one connection system / manual electrical disconnection comprising at least one connection / disconnection cap operable in rotation between an electrical connection configuration of the battery module and an electrical disconnection configuration of the battery module,

[0040] - a safety tool as defined above.

[0041] The assembly according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation or in any technically possible combination:

[0042] - the manual electrical connection / disconnection system comprises a base, the connecting / disconnecting plug being rotatably mounted on the base, the connecting / disconnecting plug being fully separable from the base in the electrically disconnected configuration;

[0043] - the assembly comprises a transport container comprising:

[0044] - a floor,

[0045] - peripheral walls,

[0046] - a roof, arranged above the peripheral walls,

[0047] the floor, the peripheral walls and the roof defining an interior volume receiving the or each battery module.

[0048] The invention also has a method for securing at least one battery module comprising at least one manual electrical connection / disconnection system, the method comprising the following steps:

[0049] - provision of a safety tool as defined above,

[0050] - contacting the tip with a connection / disconnection plug of the manual electrical connection / disconnection system, the connection / disconnection plug being rotatable between an electrical connection configuration of the battery module and an electrical disconnection configuration of the battery module, the contacting comprising the deformation of the universal joint,

[0051] - rotational driving of the insulating rod, preferably around its axis, for operate the connect / disconnect plug between the battery module electrical connection configuration and the battery module electrical disconnect configuration.

[0052] The method according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation or in any technically possible combination:

[0053] - the manual electrical connection / disconnection system comprises a base, the connecting / disconnecting plug being rotatably mounted on the base, the connecting / disconnecting plug being separable from the base in the electrical disconnect configuration,

[0054] the method comprising, after the connection / disconnection plug has passed into its electrical disconnection configuration, jointly moving the tip and the connection / disconnection plug away from the base, the connection / disconnection plug preferably being held at the end of the tip by a protruding lug of the tip.

[0055] The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given solely as a non-limiting example, and made with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0056] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] is a perspective view of a transport container containing stacks of battery modules, with their side doors closed;

[0057] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a view similar to [Fig.l], with its side doors open;

[0058] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of a connection / disconnection system manual electrical disconnection of a battery module comprising a base and a connection / disconnection cap separable from the base in an electrical disconnection configuration;

[0059] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of the safety tool according to the invention;

[0060] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a perspective view of the tip of the safety tool;

[0061] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a side view of the end cap and the manual electrical connection / disconnection system of the battery module when operating the connection / disconnection cap.

[0062] An example of a safety tool 10 according to the invention, as visible in FIGS. 4 to 6, is intended to electrically safety at least one battery module 12.

[0063] The battery module 12 is for example integrated into an electrical power storage system 14, illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0064] In the example of Figures 1 and 2, the electrical power storage system 14 is intended to be moved to a site of use, for example by a road vehicle such as a truck, by a rail vehicle, and / or by a maritime vehicle such as a transport vessel. It is intended to be electrically connected to an electrical energy utilization network at a site of use and, alternately, to an electrical energy supply network for its recharging.

[0065] The electrical storage system 14 comprises a container intended to receive battery modules 12, here formed by a transport container 16, delimiting an interior volume 18, and a plurality of battery modules 12, received in the interior volume 18.

[0066] The electrical storage system 14 advantageously comprises an electrical and thermal management system for the battery modules 12 (“Battery Management Module” or “BMM” in English) and a safety system (not shown).

[0067] In this example, the container 16 contains for example between 10 and 150 battery modules 12. It extends along a longitudinal axis A-A'.

[0068] The battery modules 12 are mounted in series and / or in parallel to deliver to at least two electrical terminals 20 present on the container 16, an electrical power which can reach for example up to 5 MWh for voltages going in particular up to 1500 V.

[0069] Each battery module 12 comprises a plurality of electrochemical cells, for example received in prismatic or cylindrical inner housings or in flexible pockets. Each electrochemical cell comprises anodes, cathodes and separators, between which electrochemical reactions take place.

[0070] The battery modules 12 are generally arranged vertically in the form of columns and horizontally in the form of at least one row extending parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A' of the container 16.

[0071] Each row comprises a plurality of columns of battery modules 12, arranged one after the other parallel to the axis A-A'.

[0072] The height of a column of battery modules 12 is for example greater than 1.5 m, in particular between 0.25 m and 2.6 m.

[0073] The electrical management system (not shown) is capable of controlling the voltage and intensity delivered by each battery module 12 when supplying electrical power, and the power and intensity of electrical current delivered to each battery module 12 when recharging the battery modules 12.

[0074] The electrical terminals 20 are intended to connect to the user network (not shown) for the supply of electrical energy stored in the battery modules 12, and alternately, to an electrical power supply network, for recharging the battery modules 12.

[0075] With reference to [Fig.l], the container 16 comprises a self-supporting structure, intended to define the interior volume 18, and to allow the joint transport of the battery modules 12, the management system, and the security system to a site of use.

[0076] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, the self-supporting structure comprises a floor 17, peripheral walls 19 projecting at the periphery of the floor 17 and a roof 21. The floor 17, the peripheral walls 19 and the roof 21 internally delimit the interior volume 18.

[0077] The self-supporting structure of the container 16 is here of polyhedral shape. In particular, the self-supporting structure has the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, extending longitudinally along the longitudinal axis A-A'. The axis A-A' is horizontal when the container 16 is placed on a horizontal support.

[0078] The dimensions of the self-supporting structure are governed by transport standards.

[0079] The container 16 has, for example, a length greater than 2 m, in particular between 2.5 m and 15 m, a width greater than 1 m, in particular between 2 m and 4 m and a height greater than 1 m, in particular between 2 m and 4 m.

[0080] The height of the container 16 is generally less than its length, taken along the axis A-A'.

[0081] Container 16 is in particular a 20-foot container called a “High Cube” measuring 6.058 m in length, 2.438 m in width and 2.896 m in height. It advantageously has corners (often called “ISO corners”), which protrude downwards from the corners of floor 17.

[0082] The floor 17 carries the battery modules 12, the management system as well as the security system, when present.

[0083] With reference to [Fig.l], the peripheral walls 19 comprise two longitudinal vertical walls, the longitudinal walls being arranged vertically, parallel to the axis A-A', on either side of the axis A-A'.

[0084] The peripheral walls 19 further comprise two transverse vertical walls extending perpendicular to the axis A-A' and connecting the longitudinal walls to each other at the longitudinal ends of the self-supporting structure.

[0085] The longitudinal walls and the transverse walls delimit two by two corners of the self-supporting structure. They delimit the interior volume 18 towards the outside.

[0086] As visible in [Fig.l], the longitudinal walls and possibly the transverse walls are provided with movable doors making it possible to provide an access passage to the interior volume 18 from the outside of the container 16, and with a mechanism for locking the movable doors.

[0087] At least one battery module 12 of the electrical power storage system 14 comprises a manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26 visible in [Fig. 3] to ensure its safety. Generally, several battery modules 12, for example at least one battery module 12 per column or per row, comprise a manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26.

[0088] The battery module(s) 12 connected together and having a common manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26 form a branch (or battery) which can be cut by the manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26.

[0089] The manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26 is generally referred to by the English term “Manual Service Disconnect” or “MSD”. It is for example produced according to the NFPA 70E Standard in its version of June 21, 2020

[0090] As visible in [Fig.3], the electrical connection / disconnection system 26 comprises a base 28, fixedly mounted on the battery module 12, and a connection / disconnection cap 30, operable by an operator via the safety tool 10.

[0091] The connection / disconnection cap 30 is rotatably operable between an electrical connection configuration of the battery module 12, in which the battery module 12 is electrically connected to the electrical terminals 20 to provide and / or receive electrical power, and an electrical disconnection configuration of the battery module 12, in which the battery module 12 is electrically isolated from the electrical terminals 20.

[0092] In this example, as visible in [Fig. 3], the base 28 of the manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26 has a mounting plate 31 on a wall of the battery module 12, a cylindrical sleeve 32 with a central axis B-B' projecting relative to the mounting plate 31, the cylindrical sleeve 32 defining a locking groove 34 of the connection / disconnection cap 30. The groove 34 is for example helical.

[0093] The base 28 further comprises, in the cylindrical sleeve 32, an electrical contact zone (not visible) with the connection / disconnection plug 30.

[0094] In this example, the connection / disconnection plug 30 has a barrel 36, a mechanical connection 38 to the safety tool 10 projecting from the barrel 36 and a complementary electrical contact zone (not visible), intended to come into contact with the electrical contact zone of the base 28 in the connection configuration.

[0095] The barrel 36 is cylindrical. It has an internal diameter greater than the external diameter of the cylindrical sleeve 32 of the base 28 to allow it to slide and be rotated around the cylindrical sleeve 32 of the base 28, while being guided by the cylindrical sleeve 32.

[0096] The barrel 36 has internally at least one relief (not visible) for fixing to the cylindrical sleeve 32 of the base 28, intended to be inserted into the locking groove 34 of the base 28 in the connection configuration and to be extracted from the locking groove 34 in the disconnection configuration. The cooperation between the relief and the groove 34 produces a helical movement of the connection / disconnection plug 30 around the central axis B-B'.

[0097] The mechanical connection 38 is positioned at the free end of the barrel 36. It comprises at least one radial projection 40 and defines a central orifice 42.

[0098] In this example, the mechanical connection 38 has four radial projections 40 re- regularly spaced angularly around a central axis C-C' of the barrel 36.

[0099] The complementary electrical contact area of ​​the connection / disconnection plug 30 is disposed in the barrel 36 to contact the electrical contact area of ​​the base 28 in the connection configuration.

[0100] The connection / disconnection plug 30 is thus movable following a combined movement of rotation around the central axis B-B' and translation along the central axis B-B' between the connection configuration and the disconnection configuration.

[0101] The connection / disconnection plug 30, when in its connection configuration, closes an electrical circuit, advantageously by electrical contact between the electrical contact area of ​​the base 28 and the complementary electrical contact area of ​​the connection / disconnection plug 30 to electrically connect the battery module 12.

[0102] The connection / disconnection plug 30 is preferably separable from the base 28 of the manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26, when it is in the disconnection configuration, to open the electrical connection circuit of the battery module 12, advantageously by electrical separation between the electrical contact area of ​​the base 28 and the complementary electrical contact area of ​​the connection / disconnection plug 30.

[0103] As visible in [Fig.4], the safety tool 10 comprises an insulating rod 44, a tip 46 for operating the connection / disconnection plug 30 positioned at one end of the insulating rod 44 distal to the operator, and a handle 48 for gripping the safety tool 10 by the operator, located at an opposite end of the insulating rod 44, proximal to the operator.

[0104] The tip 46 is advantageously reversibly removable from the insulating rod 44. In this case, the safety tool 10 comprises a locking mechanism 50 of the tip 46 to the insulating rod 44 at the distal end of the insulating rod 44.

[0105] Preferably, the total mass of the safety tool 10 is less than 6 kg and is for example between 1 kg and 6 kg.

[0106] The handle 48 is intended for the operator to grip the safety tool 10. It extends coaxially to the axis D-D' of the insulating rod 44. The handle 48 is preferably mounted around the insulating rod 44 so as to form a sleeve which covers it at its proximal end.

[0107] Preferably, the handle has a length of between 0.5 m and 1 m.

[0108] The length of the insulating rod “L” allowing a branch to be disconnected for the safety is advantageously calculated according to the level of individual protection required for the operator, the voltage and the short-circuit current of the battery module(s) 12 connected to the same connection / disconnection system manual electric 26 forming the branch, according to the formula (from the NFPA 70E Standard):

[0109] L = 0 01 yo.v0.5 Ibf^

[0110] where L is the length of the insulating rod 44 in cm, IEm is the maximum energy value that the personal protective equipment can withstand in calories per square centimeter used when using the insulating rod 44, Vsys is the voltage delivered by the branch in Volts, Ibfest the short-circuit current of the branch in amperes

[0111] This length ensures that in all circumstances when operating the connection / disconnection plug 30, the operator is positioned at a sufficient safety distance to operate the connection / disconnection plug 30.

[0112] In this example, the insulating rod 44 has a length greater than 1.6 m.

[0113] The insulating rod 44 is of fixed length or alternatively is a telescopic rod adjustable length.

[0114] The insulating rod 44 is here tubular, for example with a diameter of 32 mm.

[0115] It is formed of a rigid material to maintain its alignment even when it carries the tip 46.

[0116] The material of the insulating rod 44 is light and chosen for use indoors and outdoors, in a humid environment. Preferably, its density is chosen so that the mass of the insulating rod 44 and the end piece 46 is between 1 kg and 6 kg, in particular between 3 kg and 6 kg, for example approximately 5 kg, once assembled.

[0117] The insulating rod 44 is for example made of polyester and fiberglass and is potentially filled with polyurethane foam.

[0118] The insulating rod 44 is electrically insulating and has a working voltage higher than the voltage likely to be generated by the branch which is cut by the electrical connection / disconnection system 26.

[0119] The working voltage is defined (in particular according to standard EN 61010-031) as being the maximum effective value of the direct or alternating voltage which can be applied to insulation in the context of compliant operation, if a device (here the safety tool 10) is supplied by the assigned voltage.

[0120] In this example, the locking mechanism 50 of the tip 46 to the insulating rod 44 comprises a deployable depth stop (not visible) in an internal orifice (not visible) of the insulating rod 44, opening at the distal end of the insulating rod 44.

[0121] As visible in [Fig.5], the tip 46 comprises a proximal mounting region 52 in the insulating rod 10 and a distal head 54, intended for maneuvering the connection / disconnection plug 30.

[0122] The end piece 46 comprises, according to the invention, a transmission joint, here a Cardan joint 56 connecting the mounting region 52 to the head 54, the Cardan joint 56 being deformable from a rest position. The end piece 46 further comprises a system for returning the Cardan joint 56 to its rest position.

[0123] A transmission joint is by definition a joint configured to mutually drive two rotating parts whose axes of rotation are not aligned during operation. It is configured to transmit the rotation of a first axis to a second axis movable relative to the first axis.

[0124] In this example, the mounting region 52 comprises a tenon 60 and a collar 62.

[0125] The tenon 60 is engaged in the orifice at the distal end of the insulating rod 44. It has a circumferential groove into which the depth stop of the locking mechanism 50 is inserted.

[0126] The collar 62 projects radially around a distal end of the tenon 60.

[0127] The head 54 comprises a base 64, a peripheral crown 66 for cooperation with the mechanical connection 38 of the connection / disconnection plug 30, and a central lug 68 for retaining the connection / disconnection plug 30.

[0128] The base 64 here has a disc shape.

[0129] The peripheral crown 66 projects distally relative to the base 64, advantageously at the periphery of the base 64. It defines at least one notch 70 opening distally.

[0130] In this example, the number of notches 70 of the peripheral crown 66 is identical to the number of radial projections 40 of the mechanical connection 38 of the connection / disconnection plug 30.

[0131] Each slot 70 has a shape complementary to that of a projection 40, to receive it in a complementary manner. In particular, each slot 70 has a width, taken along the circumference defined by the peripheral ring 66, equal to the insertion clearance close to the width of the projection 40 taken circumferentially around the axis C-C' of the connection / disconnection plug 30.

[0132] Thus, the cooperation between each slot 70 and a corresponding projection 40 allows rotational coupling between the end piece 46 and the connection / disconnection plug 30.

[0133] The central lug 68 projects distally relative to the base 64 at the center of the peripheral crown 66.

[0134] The central lug 68 has an external surface advantageously defining two different conical bearing surfaces. It comprises in particular a first distal conical guide bearing surface 72 and a second proximal conical clamping bearing surface 74 in connection with the base 64 of the head 54.

[0135] The value of the angle at the apex of the cone formed by the extension of the conical guide surface 72 is greater than the value of the angle at the apex of the cone formed by the extension of the conical clamping surface 74.

[0136] The maximum diameter of the conical guide surface 72 is less than the diameter of the central orifice 42 of the mechanical connection 38 of the connection / disconnection plug 30. On the contrary, at least one diameter of the conical clamping surface 74 is greater than the diameter of the central orifice 42 of the mechanical connection 38 of the connection / disconnection plug 30.

[0137] The cardan joint 56 comprises a first fork 76, a second fork 78 and an element for articulating the two forks together, here formed by a crosspiece 80.

[0138] The first fork 76 is fixedly mounted on the mounting region 52, projecting relative to the collar 62 opposite the tenon 60. It extends along the axis D-D' of the insulating rod 44. It can be moved in rotation jointly with the insulating rod 44 around the axis D-D' of the insulating rod 44.

[0139] The first fork 76 is articulated on the crosspiece 80 around a first axis of rotation E-E'.

[0140] The second fork 78 is fixedly mounted on the base 64 of the head 54, opposite the peripheral crown 66. It extends along the axis F-F' of the head 54 and follows the movements of the axis F-F' of the head 54.

[0141] The second fork 78 is articulated on the crosspiece 80, opposite the first fork 76 around a second axis of rotation G-G' perpendicular to the first axis of rotation E-E'.

[0142] The Cardan joint 56 has a rest position, visible in [Fig. 5], in which the forks 76, 78 and the axes D-D' and F-F' are aligned and a plurality of working positions, one of which is visible in [Fig. 6], in which the two forks 76, 78 and the axes D-D' and F-F' are misaligned.

[0143] In the rest position, the second fork 78 and consequently the head 54 of the end piece 46 extends coaxially with the axis D-D' of the insulating rod 44.

[0144] In each working position, the second fork 78 and consequently the head 54 of the end piece 46 is offset relative to the axis D-D' of the insulating rod 44, for example by an angle between -50° and +50°.

[0145] Even if the axis F-F' of the head 54 and the axis D-D' of the insulating rod 44 are misaligned, a rotation of the insulating rod 44 along its axis D-D' is transmitted to the head 54 via the Cardan joint 56 to rotate the head 54 around its rotation axis F-F'.

[0146] In this example, the system for returning the Cardan joint 56 to its rest position comprises a spring, in particular a helical spring 82, arranged around and at the outside of the cardan joint 56.

[0147] The spring 82 is fixed on a proximal side to the collar 62 of the mounting region 52 and on a distal side to the base 64 of the head 54.

[0148] The spring 82 exerts a restoring force on the universal joint 56 in order to permanently return it to the rest position from each working position.

[0149] The operation of the safety tool 10 according to the invention, for the safety of the electrical storage system 14 described above, will now be described.

[0150] Initially, at least one battery module 12 has a manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26 electrically connected with the connection / disconnection cap 30 mounted on the base 28 in its connection configuration.

[0151] To move the connection / disconnection plug 30 into its disconnection configuration, an operator grasps a safety tool 10 as described above using the handle 48.

[0152] Then, it approaches the central lug 68 of the tip 46 of the mechanical connection 38 of the connection / disconnection plug 30. The conical guide surface 72 guides the movement of the operator to bring the head 54 of the tip 46 into the axis C-C' of the mechanical connection 38.

[0153] The Cardan joint 56 of the end piece 46 deforms from its rest position to a working position allowing the axis F-F' of the head 54 of the end piece 46 to be placed coaxially with the axis C-C' of the mechanical connection 38, as visible in [Fig.6].

[0154] As described above, the first fork 76 remains in the axis D-D' of the insulating rod 44, being inclined relative to the axis C-C' of the mechanical connection 38, while the second fork 78 is placed in the axis C-C' of the mechanical connection 38.

[0155] This does not require the operator to change the axis D-D' of the insulating rod 44. He can therefore maneuver the insulating rod 44 by leaving it inclined relative to the rotation axis C-C' of the connection / disconnection plug 30, which allows him to remain in a standing position, with his feet placed on the ground, even if the connection / disconnection plug 30 is located high up or close to the ground.

[0156] Each projection 40 of the mechanical connection 38 fits into a corresponding slot 70 of the peripheral crown 66 of the head 54.

[0157] The operator advances the safety tool 10 and the conical clamping surface 74 is inserted into the central orifice 42 of the mechanical connection 38 to firmly hold the connection / disconnection plug 30 on the end piece 46 by mechanical contact.

[0158] The operator then rotates the insulating rod 44 around its axis D-D', for example by at least a quarter turn, using the handle 48. This causes rotating the connection / disconnection cap 30 around the axis C-C' which moves into the disconnection configuration.

[0159] The relief of the connection / disconnection plug 30 is released from the locking groove 34 of the base 28.

[0160] The connection / disconnection plug 30 is then completely separated from the base 28, while being held at the end of the nozzle 46 by the mechanical cooperation between the conical clamping surface 74 and the surface of the mechanical connection 38 defining the central orifice 42.

[0161] The operator can then retrieve the connection / disconnection plug 30 at a sufficient distance from the base 28 to avoid the risk of electric arcing.

[0162] The or each battery module 12 connected to the manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26 is then electrically secured. The operation can be repeated for other battery modules 12 connected to other manual electrical connection / disconnection systems 26, until the electrical power storage system 14 is completely secured.

[0163] Conversely, when the or each battery module 12 connected to the manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26 must be reconnected, the operator places the connection / disconnection cap 30 on the head 54 of the end piece 46, engaging the conical clamping surface 74 in the central orifice 42.

[0164] It approaches the tip 46 carrying the connection / disconnection plug 30 of the base 28.

[0165] The barrel 36 of the connection / disconnection plug 30 is inserted around the cylindrical sleeve 32 of the base 28, causing a deformation of the Cardan joint 56 from the rest position to a working position, in which the axis F-F' of the head 54 is aligned with the axis B-B' of the cylindrical sleeve 32.

[0166] The operator then drives the insulating rod 44 in rotation around its axis D-D' in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation previously described.

[0167] The connection / disconnection plug fixing relief 30 fits into the locking groove 34 of the base 28 to hold the barrel 36 on the cylindrical sleeve 32 in the connection configuration.

[0168] The operator then pulls the insulating rod 44 towards him to disengage the central lug 68 from the central orifice 42 of the connection / disconnection plug 30. The connection / disconnection plug 30 is still held on the base 28 by cooperation of the relief with the locking groove 34 of the base 28.

[0169] The helical spring 82 exerts a restoring force on the universal joint 56 and the universal joint 56 returns to its rest position.

[0170] In a variant, the tip 46 is permanently mounted at the end of the insulating rod 44.

[0171] In another variant, a transmission joint other than a Cardan joint connects the mounting region 52 to the head 54 of the end piece 46.

[0172] In a variant (not shown), the container is an electrical cabinet which comprises a floor, side walls and an upper wall which delimit the interior volume 18 containing the battery modules 12.

[0173] The cabinet is generally metallic, and connected to earth. It is taller than it is wide. It is advantageously configured to obstruct fire, and is generally equipped with a cooling system, in particular ventilation. The electrical cabinet has at least one door equipped with a lock to limit access to people.

[0174] Thanks to the invention which has just been described, an operator can secure a battery module 12, without having to climb onto a stepladder or bend down, even if the manual electrical connection / disconnection system 26 is located at a height or on the ground.

[0175] The insulating rod 44 keeps the operator at a distance from the battery module 12 which prevents electric arcs. The operator can therefore wear lightweight and less restrictive personal protective equipment.

[0176] Furthermore, the connection / disconnection plug 30 is firmly held at the end of the nozzle 46 when the connection / disconnection plug 30 is separated from the base 28. The operator does not have to go into a hazardous area to retrieve the connection / disconnection plug 30.

Claims

Claims

1. An assembly comprising: - at least one battery module (12) comprising at least one manual electrical connection / disconnection system (26) comprising at least one connection / disconnection cap (30) rotatable between an electrical connection configuration of the battery module (12) and an electrical disconnection configuration of the battery module (12), - a tool (10) for securing the at least one battery module (12), the tool (10) comprising: - an electrically insulating rod (44), - a tip (46) having a mounting region (52) mounted at a distal end of the insulating rod (44), the tip (46) comprising a head (54) intended to grip the connection / disconnection cap (30) of the manual electrical connection / disconnection system (26), characterized in that the tip (46) comprises a transmission joint connecting the mounting region (52) to the head (54).

2. An assembly according to claim 1, wherein the head (54) of the tip (46) has at least one notch (70) intended to grip a projection (40) present on the connection / disconnection cap (30).

3. An assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the insulating rod (44) has a length greater than a minimum length L calculated according to the formula: L = ^ / ( Q.01Vsys0.5Ihf^) where L is the length of the insulating rod (44) in cm, IEm is the maximum energy value in calories per square centimeter that can be supported by personal protective equipment used when using the insulating rod (44), Vsys is the maximum voltage in Volts delivered by one or each battery module (12) connected to the manual electrical connection / disconnection system (26), Ibf is the short-circuit current in amperes of the or each battery module (12) connected to the manual electrical connection / disconnection system (26).

4. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the tool (10) comprises a handle (48) located at one end of the insulating rod (44) opposite the tip (46), in alignment with the insulating rod (44).

5. An assembly according to any preceding claim, in wherein the transmission joint comprises a first fork (76), a second fork (78) articulated on the first fork (76), the transmission joint being deformable between a rest position in which the two forks (76, 78) are aligned in alignment with the insulating rod (44) and a working position in which the two forks (76, 78) are misaligned.

6. Assembly according to claim 5, in which the end piece (46) comprises a system for returning the transmission joint to its rest position.

7. An assembly according to claim 6, wherein the return system comprises a spring (82) positioned around and outside the transmission joint.

8. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the transmission joint is a universal joint (56).

9. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the end piece (46) comprises a protruding lug (68) for retaining the connection / disconnection plug (30).

10. An assembly according to claim 9, wherein the lug (68) has at least one conical bearing surface.

11. An assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the end piece (46) is reversibly removable from the insulating rod (44).

12. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the manual electrical connection / disconnection system (26) comprises a base (28), the connection / disconnection cap (30) being rotatably mounted on the base (28), the connection / disconnection cap (30) being completely separable from the base (28) in the electrical disconnection configuration.

13. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a transport container (16) comprising: - a floor (17), - peripheral walls (19), - a roof (21), arranged above the peripheral walls, the floor (17), the peripheral walls (19) and the roof (21) defining an interior volume (18) receiving the or each battery module (12).

14. Method for securing at least one battery module (12) of an assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the following steps: - bringing the tip (46) into contact with the connection / de- connection (30) of the manual electrical connection / disconnection system (26), the contacting comprising the deformation of the transmission joint, - rotating the insulating rod (44), preferably around its axis (D-D'), to maneuver the connection / disconnection plug (30) between the electrical connection configuration of the battery module (12) and the electrical disconnection configuration of the battery module (12).

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the manual electrical connection / disconnection system (26) comprises a base (28), the connection / disconnection plug (30) being rotatably mounted on the base (28), the connection / disconnection plug (30) being separable from the base (28) in the electrical disconnection configuration, the method comprising, after the connection / disconnection plug (30) has moved into its electrical disconnection configuration, jointly moving the tip (46) and the connection / disconnection plug (30) away from the base (28), the connection / disconnection plug (30) preferably being held at the end of the tip (46) by a lug (68) projecting from the tip (46).

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