Battery module or battery pack, comprising a matrix of cylindrical accumulators hinged together by connecting rod(s) with hinge pin(s) formed by the accumulator housings.

Abstract

Battery module or battery pack, comprising a matrix of cylindrical-format accumulators hinged together by connecting rod(s) with hinge pin(s) formed by the accumulator housings. The invention relates to a battery module (M) comprising: - a plurality of accumulators (A1, A2…A24), each accumulator being rigidly packaged in the form of a cylindrical-format housing (6), mechanically linked to each other to form at least one group which extends in a first direction (Z); - at least one rigid part (10) comprising a body (100) provided with two through openings (101, 102) each adapted to be fitted around an accumulator housing (6) so that the latter constitutes an articulation axis of the part which thus forms an articulation connecting rod between two adjacent accumulators within the module in a second direction (X or Y) and / or a third direction (Y or X), transverse to the first direction.Figure for the abstract: fig.9.

Description

Title of the invention: Battery module or battery pack, comprising a matrix of cylindrical accumulators articulated together by connecting rod(s) with articulation axis(es) formed by the accumulator housings. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of electrochemical accumulators, and more particularly to metal-ion accumulators.

[0002] The invention aims mainly to propose a solution to enable conformability to accumulators arranged in a matrix within a module or a battery pack, so that the matrix can fit a complex volume and / or adapt to a structural volume likely to deform during operation.

[0003] Although described with reference to a Lithium-ion accumulator, the invention applies to any metal-ion electrochemical accumulator, i.e. also sodium-ion, Magnesium-ion, Aluminum-ion accumulators, etc., or more generally to any electrochemical accumulator.

[0004] A battery module or pack according to the invention may be on-board or stationary. For example, the fields of electric and hybrid transport and grid-connected storage systems may be envisaged within the scope of the invention. Prior art

[0005] As illustrated schematically in Figures 1 and 2, a lithium-ion battery or accumulator usually comprises at least one electrochemical cell consisting of an electrolyte constituent 1 between a positive electrode or cathode 2 and a negative electrode or anode 3, a current collector 4 connected to the cathode 2, a current collector 5 connected to the anode 3 and finally, a packaging 6 arranged to contain the electrochemical cell with sealing while being crossed by a part of the current collectors 4, 5.

[0006] The architecture of conventional lithium-ion batteries comprises an anode, a cathode and an electrolyte. Several types of conventional architecture geometry are known:

[0007] - a cylindrical geometry as disclosed in the patent application US2006 / 0121348,

[0008] - a prismatic geometry as disclosed in US patents 7348098, US 7338733;

[0009] - a stacking geometry as disclosed in the patent applications US2008 / 060189, US 2008 / 0057392, and US patent 7335448.

[0010] The electrolyte component 1 may be in solid, liquid or gel form. In the latter form, the component may comprise a polymer, ceramic or microporous composite separator soaked in organic or ionic liquid electrolyte(s) which allows the movement of the Lithium ion from the cathode to the anode for charging and vice versa for discharging, which generates the current. The electrolyte is generally a mixture of organic solvents, for example carbonates to which a lithium salt, typically LiPF6, is added.

[0011] The positive electrode or cathode 2 is made of Lithium cation insertion materials which are generally composite, such as LiFePO4, LiCoO2, LiNi0.33Mn0.33Co0.33O 2*

[0012] The negative electrode or anode 3 is very often made of graphite carbon or Li4TiO5O12 (titanate material), possibly also based on silicon or a composite formed from silicon.

[0013] The current collector 4 connected to the positive electrode is generally made of aluminum.

[0014] The current collector 5 connected to the negative electrode is generally made of copper, nickel-plated copper or aluminum.

[0015] A lithium-ion battery or accumulator can obviously comprise a plurality of electrochemical cells which are stacked on top of each other.

[0016] Traditionally, a Li-ion battery or accumulator uses a pair of materials at the anode and the cathode allowing it to operate at a high voltage level, typically equal to 3.6 Volts.

[0017] Depending on the type of application targeted, the aim is to produce either a thin and flexible lithium-ion accumulator or a rigid accumulator: the packaging is then either flexible or rigid and in the latter case constitutes a sort of case.

[0018] Flexible packaging is usually manufactured from a multi-layer composite material, consisting of a stack of aluminum layers covered by one or more polymer films laminated by bonding.

[0019] Rigid packaging is used when the intended applications are restrictive where a long service life is required, for example with much higher pressures to be supported and a stricter required level of sealing, typically less than 10 8mbar.l / s, or in environments with high constraints such as the aeronautical or space sector.

[0020] Also, to date, rigid packaging used consists of a metal case, typically made of stainless steel (316L stainless steel or 304 stainless steel) or aluminum (Al 1050 or Al 3003), or even titanium.

[0021] The geometry of most rigid Li-ion battery packaging cases is cylindrical, because most electrochemical cells in accumulators are wound by winding in a cylindrical geometry around a cylindrical mandrel. Prismatic case shapes have also already been produced by winding around a prismatic mandrel.

[0022] One of the types of rigid cylindrical shaped case, usually manufactured for a high capacity Li-ion accumulator, is illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0023] A rigid prismatic shaped case is also shown in [Fig.4].

[0024] The housing 6 comprises a cylindrical side casing 7, a base 8 at one end, a cover 9 at the other end, the base 8 and the cover 9 being assembled to the casing 7. The cover 9 supports the current output poles or terminals 4, 5. One of the output terminals (poles), for example the negative terminal 5 is welded to the cover 9 while the other output terminal, for example the positive terminal 4, passes through the cover 9 with the interposition of a seal not shown which electrically insulates the positive terminal 4 from the cover.

[0025] The widely manufactured type of rigid housing also consists of a stamped cup and a cover, welded together on their periphery. On the other hand, current collectors include a bushing with a part projecting on the top of the housing and which forms a terminal also called the exposed pole of the battery.

[0026] A battery pack P is made up of a variable number of accumulators which can reach several thousand which are electrically connected in series or in parallel with each other and generally by connection bars, usually called busbars.

[0027] For reasons of volume compactness, it is chosen to use assemblies of X accumulators in parallel and Y in series, a mechanical integration of accumulators of cylindrical geometry with rigid casing 6 covered with an insulating film within a module or a battery pack widely retained is that illustrated in [Fig.5].

[0028] In this integration, the accumulators A1, A2...A42 are arranged in parallel geometrically relative to each other, in physical contact through their box 6 covered with an insulating film, and in staggered rows forming a matrix which extends in the Z direction. A staggered arrangement allows for high energy density.

[0029] The assembly of this matrix is ​​most often done by gluing the accumulators A1, A2...A42 to each other.

[0030] Although due to the dimensional tolerances of each accumulator and those of the bonding process, the overall dimensions Lx and Ly respectively in the X and Y directions orthogonal to the Z direction, may vary from one die to another, each die forms a rigid assembly in all the X, Y, Z directions.

[0031] Patent EP1770804 describes an arrangement in two inclined directions of two groups of accumulators electrically connected to each other by busbars preformed according to the imposed inclination.

[0032] Patent EP2251921 proposes preforming the accumulators along a portion of a circular arc, so as to create a matrix curved along the predetermined arc.

[0033] Neither of these two solutions allows a matrix made with standard-shaped accumulators to conform to a volume of complex shape, since they require the creation of preforms adapted only to the specific implantation requirement (arrangement in two inclined directions, arc of a circle).

[0034] Patent application CN2179903367 discloses a plurality of button-type batteries, arranged on a flexible surface giving a certain flexibility to the assembly. This flexibility is therefore specific to button batteries of reduced dimensions and electrical performance.

[0035] Patent EP2950366 discloses an accumulator matrix with serial electrical connections with one degree of freedom which appears to allow a variable angle between two adjacent accumulators. The conformability of this matrix is ​​therefore very limited and requires specific connections.

[0036] There is therefore a need for a solution which allows conformability to complex shaped volumes of standard cylindrical format accumulator matrix within a battery module or battery pack while maintaining reliable and simple to implement electrical connections between accumulators.

[0037] The aim of the invention is to meet at least part of this need. Statement of the invention

[0038] To do this, the invention relates, in one of its aspects, to a battery module comprising:

[0039] - a plurality of accumulators, each accumulator being rigidly packaged under the shape of a cylindrical box, mechanically linked to each other by forming at least one group which extends in a first direction (Z);

[0040] - at least one rigid part comprising a body provided with two openings tra slopes each adapted to be fitted around an accumulator housing so that the latter constitutes an articulation axis of the part which thus forms an articulation connecting rod between two adjacent accumulators within the module in a second direction (X or Y) and / or a third direction (Y or X), transverse to the first direction.

[0041] According to an alternative embodiment, an accumulator housing is fitted into a connecting rod through opening, directly with adjustment or indirectly with the interposition of an envelope, preferably made of electrically insulating material, secured to the housing.

[0042] According to an advantageous configuration, at least one of the accumulator housings of the matrix forms an articulation axis common to at least two articulation connecting rods, one of the two connecting rods being articulated with a first adjacent accumulator housing, the other of the two connecting rods being articulated with a second adjacent accumulator housing, distinct from the first.

[0043] According to another advantageous configuration, at least one of the accumulator housings of the matrix forms an articulation axis common to at least two articulation connecting rods with the same adjacent accumulator housing.

[0044] According to an advantageous embodiment, the module comprises a spacer in the form of a hollow cylinder, fitted around the accumulator housing arranged between the two articulation connecting rods.

[0045] According to another advantageous configuration, the module comprises a single group of accumulators arranged in line, each accumulator within the group being articulated by at least two connecting rods with two adjacent accumulators, while the two end accumulators of the line are articulated with a single adjacent accumulator.

[0046] According to an advantageous embodiment, the accumulators can be arranged in a matrix comprising at least two groups of at least two accumulators, within each of which the accumulators are rigidly connected to each other by at least one fixing flange, the two groups being articulated to each other by at least one articulation rod.

[0047] According to this embodiment, the accumulators of a group can be connected by two fixing flanges, one of which is arranged at one of the ends of the accumulators and the other is arranged at the other of the ends of the accumulators.

[0048] The two groups can be articulated together by at least two articulation rods carried by two separate accumulators, so as to be able to deform the general shape of the matrix according to at least two different quadrilaterals.

[0049] According to an advantageous variant, a fixing flange connecting a number of n accumulators has a general shape of a number equal to n-1 joined eights, the connecting part connecting two joined eights having at least one cylindrical portion of shape complementary to that of a cylindrical accumulator.

[0050] Advantageously, the body of a connecting rod has a general shape of an eight, the connecting part connecting the two openings at the ends of the eight having at least one cylindrical outer portion of a shape complementary to that of a cylindrical accumulator housing.

[0051] According to an advantageous variant, the module may comprise at least one means of return from an articulated position to another articulated position by the connecting rod(s). the return means being constituted by a spring, in particular a traction spring.

[0052] Preferably, one end of a tension spring is fixed to a fixing flange of an accumulator group, the other end of said tension spring being fixed to a fixing flange of an adjacent accumulator group.

[0053] According to another advantageous embodiment, the module comprises at least one mechanical locking means in a position articulated by the connecting rod(s). According to this embodiment, the locking means preferably comprises at least one permanent magnet secured to at least one accumulator and / or the articulation connecting rod and / or the fixing flange.

[0054] Also preferably, the connecting part houses at least one permanent magnet so that in the mechanical locking position the connecting part fits the casing of an accumulator.

[0055] According to an advantageous electrical configuration, at least a portion of the accumulators is electrically connected in series and / or in parallel permanently by electrical connections adapted to deform between the extreme articulated positions between accumulators in the second direction (X or Y) and / or the third direction (Y or X).

[0056] Preferably, the electrical connections are wires or metal strips welded by bridging to the output terminals of the accumulators.

[0057] Thus, the invention essentially consists of mechanically assembling at least one part of a plurality of accumulators of cylindrical format with at least one part forming an articulation connecting rod of which each of the two axes of rotation is constituted by the cylindrical casing of an accumulator.

[0058] In other words, a rotation or pivoting of the connecting rod allows a displacement of an accumulator relative to at least one adjacent accumulator according to one and / or the other of the transverse directions (X,Y) to the direction (Z) in which the accumulators extend.

[0059] In other words, with articulation connecting rods whose axes of rotation are defined by the housings themselves of the cylindrical accumulator housings, an assembly of accumulators is made deformable in a matrix or in line transversely to the direction (Z), while still maintaining a high degree of assembly rigidity between them.

[0060] Whatever the possible deformation by the articulation rods within the plurality of accumulators, their mechanical assembly is preserved.

[0061] And due to the fixed lengths of the articulation rods, all distances between adjacent accumulators can be kept constant, which makes it possible to maintain reliable and easily achievable electrical connections.

[0062] These electrical connections can also be permanent and withstand deformations between extreme articulated positions and / or be established as soon as predefined articulated positions are reached. This makes it possible to produce electrical connections which are implemented as a plurality of accumulators articulated together by the connecting rods are inserted in a non-rectilinear shape.

[0063] Ultimately, the invention provides numerous advantages, including: - the possibility of adapting the shape of a module or a battery pack to volumes of complex shapes, predefined or variable according to the environment; - the possibility for a module or battery pack to follow the movements of a housing and / or support structure, which is subjected to an environment with severe deformation and / or vibration constraints; - the possibility of inserting a module or a battery pack into a non-rectilinear housing; - quick and easy disassembly for the replacement of a faulty accumulator within a module or battery pack, only the operations of removing the faulty accumulator from a connecting rod and re-inserting a new accumulator into a connecting rod being sufficient; - safety when establishing electrical connections of a module or battery pack which is done as it is inserted in a non-rectilinear shape which may not be accessible by an operator.

[0064] For application to a Li-ion battery module or pack, each accumulator is a Li-ion accumulator in which: - the negative electrode(s) material is chosen from the group comprising graphite, lithium, titanate oxide Li4TiO5Oi2; - the positive electrode(s) material is chosen from the group comprising LiFePO4, LiCoCL LiNi0.33Mn0.33Co0.33O2.

[0065] Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will become more apparent upon reading the detailed description of examples of implementation of the invention given by way of illustration and not limitation with reference to the following figures. Brief description of the drawings

[0066] [Fig.l] [Fig.l] is an exploded perspective schematic view showing the various elements of a lithium-ion accumulator.

[0067] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a front view showing a lithium-ion accumulator with its flexible packaging according to the state of the art.

[0068] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of a state-of-the-art lithium-ion accumulator with its rigid packaging consisting of a cylindrical-shaped case.

[0069] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of a state-of-the-art lithium-ion accumulator with its rigid packaging consisting of a prismatic-shaped case.

[0070] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a perspective view of a plurality of lithium-ion accumulators of cylindrical geometry preassembled together according to the state of the art, forming a matrix intended for a battery module or a battery pack.

[0071] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] repeats [Fig.5] by indicating the overall lengths of the matrix according to two orthogonal directions X, Y.

[0072] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a perspective view of a battery pack module with a matrix of cylindrical accumulators whose general shape can be deformed according to the invention.

[0073] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] is a perspective view of a part forming an articulation connecting rod between two adjacent accumulators whose cylindrical housings constitute the articulation axes of the connecting rod in accordance with the invention.

[0074] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] shows the deformed matrix in an articulated position other than that of [Fig.7] obtained by the connecting rods according to the invention.

[0075] [Fig.lOA], [Fig.lOB], [Fig.lOC], [Fig.lOD], [Fig.lOE], [Fig.lOF], [Fig.lOG], [Fig.lOH], [Fig. 101] Figures 10A to 101 show different possible deformed shapes that the same die with 18 or 24 accumulators can take thanks to the articulation rods within the die.

[0076] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] is a photographic reproduction of a first variant of electrical connections between accumulators of the same matrix according to the invention, produced by welding by wire wiring.

[0077] [Fig. 12] [Fig. 12] is a photographic reproduction of a second variant of electrical connections between accumulators of the same matrix according to the invention, produced by welding by wire wiring.

[0078] [Fig. 13] [Fig. 13] schematically shows a conformation of a deformable matrix according to the invention to a volume of complex shape.

[0079] [Fig. 14], [Fig.14A] Figures 14 and 14A are schematic views showing a deformable matrix according to the invention supported by a support structure before and during deformations undergone by the structure in its environment.

[0080] [Fig.l5A], [Fig.l5B], [Fig.l5C] Figures 15A to 15C show the different deformations that an accumulator matrix according to the invention can take, when inserted into a non-rectilinear shape.

[0081] [Fig. 16], [Fig.16A] Figures 16 and 16A show two possible deformed shapes that a number of 8 accumulators arranged in a line can take thanks to the articulation rods within the matrix.

[0082] [Fig. 17], [Fig.17A] Figures 17 and 17A show two possible deformed shapes that a matrix of accumulators with several articulation rods per accumulator can take thanks to the latter within the matrix.

[0083] [Fig. 18] [Fig. 18] is a photographic reproduction of a deformable matrix according to the invention integrating means for returning groups of accumulators to a so-called rest position relative to each other, when they are in an articulated position.

[0084] [Fig. 19] [Fig. 19] is a perspective view of a variant of a hinge rod incorporating a permanent magnet as a means of mechanically locking an accumulator in an articulated position.

[0085] [Fig.20] [Fig.20] is a photographic reproduction of a deformable matrix according to the invention and of busbars as electrical connections between accumulators of the matrix.

[0086] [Fig.21] [Fig.21] shows the deformable matrix according to the invention and the busbars of [Fig.20], a part of which is soldered to output terminals of a part of the accumulators of the matrix and some electrical contacts of which are not in contact with the output terminals of another part of the accumulators of the matrix, in an undeformed position of the matrix.

[0087] [Fig.21A], [Fig.21B], [Fig.21C] Figures 21A to 21C show different confi contact figures made between the electrical contacts of the busbars and the output terminals of a part of the accumulators of the matrix according to [Fig.21], depending on the deformatted positions of the latter.

[0088] [Fig.22], [Fig.22A] Figures 22 and 22A are photographic reproductions of a deformable matrix according to the invention and of a busbar variant as electrical connections between accumulators of the matrix, respectively with the electrical contacts not then in contact with the output terminals of another part of the accumulators of the matrix, in a respectively undeformed and deformed position of the matrix.

[0089] [Fig.23A], [Fig.23B], [Fig.23C], [Fig.23D] Figures 23A to 23D show schematically the electrical connections which are effective as and when inserted into a non-rectilinear shape of a deformable matrix with busbars whose electrical contacts gradually come into contact with the output terminals of a part of the accumulators. Detailed description

[0090] Figures 1 to 6 relate to different examples of Li-ion accumulators, flexible packaging and accumulator cases as well as an accumulator matrix for a battery pack module according to the state of the art.

[0091] These figures 1 to 6 have already been commented on in the preamble and are therefore not commented on further below.

[0092] For the sake of clarity, the same references designating the same elements according to the state of the art and according to the invention are used for all figures 1 to 23D.

[0093] Throughout the application, a battery module is a plurality of cylindrical format accumulators arranged in a matrix or along a line, defined in a position relative to an orthogonal reference XYZ constituting a trihedron, comprising three axes perpendicular two by two, namely:

[0094] - an X axis, defining a transverse direction,

[0095] - a Y axis, defining a transverse direction, which with the X axis defines a plane XY,

[0096] - a Z axis, defining a longitudinal direction, perpendicular to the XY plane, and ending the general direction in which the accumulators extend, i.e. the main direction of the cylindrical shapes of the accumulators

[0097] Throughout the present application, the terms "lower", "upper", "bottom", "top", "below" and "above" are to be understood by reference to vertically arranged Li-ion battery cases.

[0098] [Fig.7] shows an example of a module M of a battery pack of Li-ion, Al, A2,...,A12 accumulators arranged in a matrix according to the invention.

[0099] In the illustrated examples, the illustrated accumulators A1-A24 have cylindrical format cases 6, typically 18650, 21700, 26650, 4680 format.

[0100] The accumulators A1-A12 are arranged in a matrix. In the illustrated examples, the number of accumulators arranged in a matrix can be up to 24, but it goes without saying that a lower or higher number is suitable within the scope of the invention.

[0101] The accumulators are mechanically linked to each other by forming several groups which extend in a first direction (Z).

[0102] According to the invention, at least one rigid part 10 is arranged in the matrix. Such a connecting rod 10 is shown more precisely in [Fig.8]: it consists of a body 100 provided with two through openings 101, 102. A connecting rod 10 is typically made of polymer of the ABS, PA, PC, PEEK type.

[0103] Each of these openings 101, 102 is adapted to be fitted around an accumulator housing 6 so that the latter constitutes an articulation axis of the part 10. In the example illustrated, the connecting rod 10 has a general shape of an eight with the external profiles of the central portion of the body which are cylindrical with a diameter substantially equal to that of a cylindrical accumulator housing 6. This makes it possible to have good compactness for the matrix.

[0104] A hinge rod is thus formed between two adjacent accumulators within the module in a second direction (X or Y) and / or a third direction (Y or X), transverse to the first direction (Z). In other words, the implementation of hinge rods 10 within the matrix makes it deformable in the X and Y directions.

[0105] A connecting rod 10 can therefore be in direct contact with the metal casing 6, or with an electrically insulating sheath or with any other envelope arranged around the casing,

[0106] Furthermore, for the mechanical connection, each group of accumulators is glued to at least one fixing flange 11, 12. A fixing flange 11, 12 is typically made of ABS, PA, PC, PEEK type polymer.

[0107] In the example illustrated, a group consists of three accumulators side by side mechanically linked by at least one fixing flange 11, 12.

[0108] As shown in the mode of [Fig.7], each group of accumulators is advantageously bonded to an upper flange 11 and to a lower flange 12, which are respectively arranged around the upper and lower ends of the accumulators.

[0109] A flange 11, 12 which connects together a number n of accumulators advantageously has a general shape of a number equal to n-1 joined eights, the connecting part connecting two joined eights having at least one cylindrical outer portion of a shape complementary to that of a cylindrical accumulator. This allows good compactness of the matrix by allowing a staggered positioning of the accumulators. In the example illustrated, a flange 11, 12 connecting three accumulators side by side has the general shape of a double eight.

[0110] To maintain the connecting rods 10 in position in the Z direction, it is possible to use, for example, stop rings 13 fitted individually around the accumulators, the housing 6 of which serves as an articulation axis for a connecting rod 10.

[0111] Thus, in the module, the accumulators of each group are rigidly connected to each other by the flanges 11, 12 and the groups are articulated to each other by at least one articulation rod 10 which provides a connection between the groups.

[0112] In the example illustrated, within the module two adjacent groups of accumulators are articulated together by two pairs of connecting rods 10.

[0113] As shown, the arrangement of the groups between them is preferably carried out so that the positive output terminals 4 of accumulators of a group and the negative output terminals 5 of an adjacent group are on the same longitudinal side of the module M, in the direction Z.

[0114] Thus, in the module M of [Fig.7], two groups of accumulators linked by the connecting rods 10 form an articulated quadrilateral, and all of the groups linked together thus form a matrix deformable by articulations, in which the distances between two adjacent accumulators remain constant.

[0115] [Fig.9] represents the same matrix as that illustrated in [Fig.7], but deformed into another articulated position.

[0116] Figures 10A to 101 illustrate different articulated positions that a deformable matrix with 18 or 24 accumulators can take, distributed in groups articulated together by two pairs of connecting rods 10, each group consisting of three accumulators linked together by flanges 11, 12.

[0117] In particular, Figures 10E, 10F, 10G, illustrate three different deformation configurations in which the articulated matrix takes articulated positions adapted to the surrounding PI, P2, P3 walls.

[0118] In these same figures, we see an advantageous variant of maintaining the connecting rods 10: a spacer 14 fitted with free rotation around an accumulator keeps the separation height between an upper connecting rod 10 and a lower connecting rod 10 constant.

[0119] Figures 11 and 12 show an advantageous variant of producing permanent electrical connections 15, 16 between accumulators within the same group or different groups articulated together.

[0120] These electrical connections 15, 16 between accumulators are chosen so as to be able to deform during a rotation, typically of a few tens of degrees, of connecting rods 10. As illustrated, these electrical connections 15, 16 are preferably made in the form of metal wires directly welded to the output terminals 4 or 5 of the accumulators. These wired electrical connections can advantageously be made by bridging welding, also called in English "wire bonding" or "ribbon bonding" techniques. Care is of course taken to size these wired connections to meet the electrical stresses, typically to allow a current of a few amperes to pass for series connections, and the mechanical stresses, in particular fatigue due to repeated articulations of one accumulator relative to another.

[0121] Different application purposes can be envisaged for a module with a matrix deformable by connecting rods 10.

[0122] [Fig. 13] illustrates the ability of a module M with three groups of accumulators G1, G2, G3 to conform to an imposed housing L1 whose shape is complex. This configuration can typically be encountered in the case of a retrofit of a thermal vehicle.

[0123] Figures 14 and 14A illustrate the ability of a module M according to the invention to be able to deform by articulation of the connecting rods and thus to be able to take on the shape of a support structure S likely to undergo significant deformations in its environment. Thus, the module M does not undergo significant mechanical stresses which could damage it. Furthermore, it does not alter the flexibility of the supporting structure S, if it is desirable.

[0124] Figures 15A, 15B, 15C illustrate the progressive insertion of a module M according to the invention into a non-rectilinear housing L2, made possible by the articulation rods. This makes it possible to envisage designing housings with a more complex geometry than when using rigid modules according to the state of the art.

[0125] Instead of linking accumulators in groups and arranging them in a matrix, a module M can be made in linear form, as illustrated in Figures 16, 16A which shows two different articulated positions of the module, one in which it is rectilinear and the other in which it is non-rectilinear. In this module, there is therefore a single group of accumulators arranged in line, each accumulator being articulated by at least two connecting rods 10 with two adjacent accumulators, while the two end accumulators of the line are articulated with a single adjacent accumulator.

[0126] Generally, each accumulator can serve as a hinge axis for at least one articulation connecting rod. In the previous illustrated examples, each accumulator serves as a hinge axis for two pairs of connecting rods 10.

[0127] Matrices with more degrees of freedom can be created by increasing the number of connecting rods 10 that share an accumulator as a common axis of rotation. For example, in Figures 17, 17A, the accumulators shown in the third and fourth rows from the bottom of the figures serve as the axis of rotation for three pairs of connecting rods 10.

[0128] [Fig. 18] illustrates an advantageous variant of return to a so-called rest position of the module matrix. In this variant, the groups of accumulators are connected to each other by return springs. More precisely, the end of at least one tension spring 17 is fixed to a flange 11 of a group and the other end of this same spring 17 is fixed to the flange 11 of an adjacent group in the matrix. Thus, with the return force exerted by these tension springs 17, the accumulator matrix is ​​returned from an articulated position to its rest position.

[0129] It is also possible to provide mechanical locking of a module M in an articulated position. This mechanical locking can, for example, be achieved by means of permanent magnets.

[0130] [Fig. 19] illustrates an advantageous variant of the installation of a permanent magnet 18 in the central portion of the body 100 of a connecting rod 10 of an articulation. Thus, when the connecting rod 10 approaches an adjacent accumulator, the permanent magnet 18 creates a hold in position against the metal casing 6 of this adjacent accumulator. An alternative not shown is to integrate the magnet into the fixing flange of a group.

[0131] It is possible to envisage electrical connections between groups of accumulators which are not permanent but made according to the articulated positions of the matrix.

[0132] [Fig.20] illustrates a matrix module M as in Figures 10A to 10G with a set B of busbars B1, B2, B3 adapted to make the desired electrical connections depending on the articulated positions.

[0133] Each of the busbars B1, B2, B3 comprises electrical contact points 19 which are welded directly to one of the output terminals of the same group of accumulators, for example the positive terminal 4, and electrical contact points 20 electrically connected to each other and to the electrical contact points 19 which are free, i.e. not welded to the output terminals of the accumulators.

[0134] In the articulated position of [Fig.21], in which the matrix has the general shape of a right parallelepiped, all the electrical contact points 19 of each busbar B1 to B3 are welded to the negative terminals 5 of a group of accumulators and the electrical contact points 20 are distant from the positive terminals 4 of each group of adjacent accumulators.

[0135] In the articulated position of [Fig.21A], a single electrical connection in series is made by means of the busbar B3 whose electrical contact points 20 are in direct contact individually with the positive output terminal 4 of an accumulator of the group adjacent to that whose negative output terminal 5 is welded to a contact point 19. The electrical contact points 20 of the other busbars B1, B2 are distant from the positive output terminals 4 of the accumulators.

[0136] In the articulated position of [Fig.21B], the same single electrical connection in series is made by means of busbar B3 but in a different articulated position of the matrix.

[0137] In the articulated position of [Fig.21C], three electrical connections in series are made by means of the busbars B1, B2 B3 whose electrical contact points 20 are in direct contact individually with the positive output terminal 4 of an accumulator of the group adjacent to that whose negative output terminal 5 is welded to a contact point 19.

[0138] [Fig.22] shows an alternative embodiment of both the busbars B4, B5 and the electrical connection in series between two adjacent groups of accumulators. The busbar B4 comprises only one non-welded electrical contact point 20 electrically connected to the contact points 19 electrically connected to each other and individually welded to the negative output terminals 5 of a group of accumulators. The busbar B5 comprises only electrical contact points 19 electrically connected to each other and individually welded to the positive output terminals 4 of the adjacent group of accumulators.

[0139] As illustrated in [Fig.22A], an articulation according to a certain angle of rotation in the XY plane of a group carrying the busbar B4 relative to the adjacent one carrying the busbar B5 brings the electrical contact point 20 of B4 into direct contact with one of the welded electrical contact points 19 of B5 which creates the series connection of the two adjacent groups of accumulators.

[0140] This possibility of electrical connection depending on the deformation of the matrix of a module M can be used when inserting into a housing of complex shape, in particular a non-rectilinear shape.

[0141] This is illustrated in Figures 23A to 23D, where a module M which can be deformed by the articulation rods 10 within it as it is inserted into a housing L3 of non-rectilinear shape gradually makes electrical connections within it and where appropriate with an external output terminal C, the part of matrix Mi being connected.

[0142] The invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described; it is possible in particular to combine characteristics of the examples illustrated within non-illustrated variants.

[0143] Other variants and improvements may be envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0144] The number of articulation rods for which the same accumulator serves as an axis of rotation can be adapted according to the constraints of implantation and / or articulated positions that one wishes to give to a battery module M.

[0145] The positive 4 and negative 5 output terminals of the accumulators within a module M can be connected to each other, in order to electrically connect the different accumulators in series and / or parallel in groups.

Claims

Claims

1. Battery module (M) comprising: - a plurality of accumulators (A1, A2...A24), each accumulator being rigidly packaged in the form of a cylindrical case (6), mechanically linked to each other to form at least one group which extends in a first direction (Z); - at least one rigid part (10) comprising a body (100) provided with two through openings (101, 102) each adapted to be fitted around an accumulator case (6) so that the latter constitutes an articulation axis of the part which thus forms an articulation rod between two adjacent accumulators within the module in a second direction (X or Y) and / or a third direction (Y or X), transverse to the first direction.

2. Battery module according to claim 1, an accumulator housing being fitted into a connecting rod through opening, directly with adjustment or indirectly with the interposition of an envelope, preferably made of electrically insulating material, secured to the housing.

3. Battery module according to claim 1 or 2, at least one of the accumulator housings of the matrix forming an articulation axis common to at least two articulation connecting rods, one of the two connecting rods being articulated with a first adjacent accumulator housing, the other of the two connecting rods being articulated with a second adjacent accumulator housing, distinct from the first.

4. Battery module according to one of claims 1 to 3, at least one of the accumulator housings of the matrix forming an articulation axis common to at least two articulation connecting rods with the same adjacent accumulator housing.

5. Battery module according to one of claims 3 or 4, comprising a spacer in the form of a hollow cylinder, fitted around the accumulator housing arranged between the two articulation rods.

6. Battery module according to one of claims 3 to 5, comprising a single group of accumulators arranged in a line, each accumulator within the group being articulated by at least two connecting rods with two adjacent accumulators, while the two end accumulators of the line are articulated with a single adjacent accumulator.

7. Battery module according to one of the preceding claims, the accumulators being arranged in a matrix comprising at least two groups of at least two accumulators, within each of which the accumulators are rigidly linked together by at least one fixing flange, the two groups being articulated together by at least one articulation rod.

8. Battery module according to claim 7, the accumulators of a group being linked by two fixing flanges, one of which is arranged at one of the ends of the accumulators and the other is arranged at the other of the ends of the accumulators.

9. Battery module according to claim 7 or 8, the two groups being articulated together by at least two articulation rods carried by two separate accumulators, so as to be able to deform the general shape of the matrix according to at least two different quadrilaterals.

10. Battery module according to one of claims 7 to 9, a fixing flange connecting a number of n accumulators having a general shape of a number equal to n-1 joined eights, the connecting part connecting two joined eights having at least one cylindrical portion of shape complementary to that of a cylindrical accumulator.

11. Battery module according to claim 10, the body of a connecting rod having a general shape of an eight, the connecting part connecting the two openings at the ends of the eight having at least one cylindrical outer portion of shape complementary to that of a cylindrical accumulator case.

12. Battery module according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one means for returning from an articulated position to another articulated position by the connecting rod(s).

13. Battery module according to claim 12, the return means being constituted by a spring, in particular a tension spring.

14. Battery module according to claim 13 in combination with one of claims 7 to 10, one end of a tension spring being fixed to a fixing flange of a group of accumulators, the other end of said tension spring being fixed to a fixing flange of an adjacent group of accumulators.

15. Battery module according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one mechanical locking means in a position articulated by the connecting rod(s).

16. Battery module according to claim 15, the locking means comprising at least one permanent magnet secured to at least one accumulator and / or the articulation connecting rod and / or the fixing flange.

17. Battery module according to claim 16, the connecting part housing at least one permanent magnet so that, in the mechanical locking position, the connecting part fits the casing of an accumulator.

18. Battery module according to one of the preceding claims, at least some of the accumulators being electrically connected in series and / or in parallel permanently by electrical connections adapted to deform between the extreme articulated positions between accumulators in the second direction (X or Y) and / or the third direction (Y or X).

19. Battery module according to claim 18, the electrical connections being wires or metal strips welded by bridging to the output terminals of the accumulators.

20. Battery module according to one of the preceding claims, each accumulator being a Li-ion accumulator in which: - the negative electrode(s) material is chosen from the group comprising graphite, lithium, titanate oxide Li4TiO5Oi2; the positive electrode(s) material is chosen from the group comprising LiFePO4, LiCoO2, LiNi0.33Mn0.33Co0.33O2.

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