BATTERY SYSTEM FOR ELECTRIC OR HYBRID VEHICLES

Abstract

Battery System for Electric or Hybrid Vehicles. The present invention relates to a battery system (18) for an electric or hybrid vehicle, comprising battery modules (30) having a casing (40) extending perpendicularly to a vertical axis (Z), electrochemical cells (32), and an end plate (50) closing the casing; and a cooling system (34) having a frame (60) fixed to the vehicle floor, an inlet duct (62), and an outlet duct (64). Fluid inlet fittings (66) and outlet fittings (68) are respectively associated with the end plates and extend between the frame and the end plates, parallel or oblique to the vertical axis, to connect them to the inlet and outlet ducts and allow the circulation of a refrigerant fluid in the battery modules.Fastening elements (80) fix the end plates to the chassis by extending parallel or obliquely to the vertical axis between the end plates and the chassis. Figure for the abstract: 2.

Description

Title of the invention: BATTERY SYSTEM FOR ELECTRIC OR HYBRID VEHICLES

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery system, in particular for electric or hybrid vehicles.

[0002] The term "battery" refers to a plurality of electrochemical cells electrically connected to one another. In one particular example of a battery, the plurality of electrochemical cells is arranged in the form of several battery modules, each battery module comprising several electrochemical cells electrically connected to one another and mechanically assembled together by an assembly system, such as assembly plates. An electrochemical cell comprises, in particular, a stack of positive electrodes, negative electrodes, and separators. The positive electrodes connected to one another form a positive terminal of the battery, and the negative electrodes connected to one another form a negative terminal.

[0003] A battery module generally includes a casing that helps protect its internal components, particularly the electrochemical cells and electrical connectors. Typically, a battery module also includes internal structures to reinforce its rigidity and increase its mechanical resistance, especially against impact on the vehicle. Usually, a battery module is attached directly to the vehicle, for example to the vehicle floor, using fasteners such as bolts.

[0004] Furthermore, during operation, electrochemical cells are likely to produce heat. In order to prevent an excessive rise in temperature inside the battery, which could damage certain internal components or impair their operation, at least some of this heat is dissipated outside the battery. For example, it is known to use a cooling system that circulates a refrigerant fluid inside the battery modules to cool the electrochemical cells. Such a system is generally achieved using hydraulic hoses that connect each battery module to a refrigerant supply circuit.

[0005] The assembly formed by the battery modules and the cooling system constitutes a battery system, the installation of which within the vehicle is usually complex, as it requires first fixing all the battery modules to the vehicle floor, then the hydraulic connection of each battery module. to the refrigerant supply circuit. In addition, the internal structures used to reinforce the rigidity of each battery module increase the weight and size of the battery system.

[0006] One object of the invention is therefore to provide a battery system that is more compact and lighter, while being easier and faster to mount on a vehicle.

[0007] To this end, the invention relates to a battery system for an electric or hybrid vehicle, the battery system being configured to be installed on the vehicle floor and comprising: - battery modules, each battery module comprising: • a housing, the housing being tubular and extending parallel to a transverse axis configured to correspond to a transverse axis of the vehicle, • several electrochemical cells arranged in the casing, and • a terminal plate, closing one end of the housing along the transverse axis, - a cooling system, comprising: • a chassis, extending along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the transverse axis and configured to correspond to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, the chassis being configured to be fixed to the vehicle floor, • an inlet duct, extending into the chassis parallel to the longitudinal axis, the inlet duct being configured to be supplied with refrigerant, • an outlet duct, extending into the chassis parallel to the longitudinal axis, the outlet duct being configured to allow the discharge of refrigerant fluid, - inlet fluid fittings, each inlet fluid fitting being associated with the terminal plate of one of the battery modules and extending between the cooling system chassis and the associated terminal plate, parallel or oblique to a vertical axis perpendicular to the transverse and longitudinal axes, each inlet fluid fitting connecting the inlet duct to the associated terminal plate, so as to allow refrigerant fluid to circulate from the inlet duct to the battery module via the associated terminal plate, - Fluid outlet fittings, each fluid outlet fitting being associated with the terminal plate of one of the battery modules and extending between the cooling system chassis and the associated terminal plate, parallel or oblique to the vertical axis, each fluid fitting of outlet connecting the associated terminal plate to the outlet duct, so as to allow refrigerant fluid to circulate from the battery module to the outlet duct via the associated terminal plate, and - fastening elements, each fastening element being associated with the terminal plate of one of the battery modules and extending between the cooling system chassis and the associated terminal plate, parallel or oblique to the vertical axis, each fastening element fixing the associated terminal plate to the chassis.

[0008] Thanks to the invention, the assembly of the battery system is facilitated, since a vertical movement of a battery module towards the chassis of the cooling system simultaneously positions the battery module for attachment to the chassis using the fasteners and connects the inlet and outlet fluid fittings. The assembly of the battery modules thus requires fewer operations than with known battery systems. Furthermore, positioning the chassis along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle makes it easy to supply all the battery modules with coolant and facilitates their integration into the vehicle, and advantageously allows the tubular housings of the battery modules to extend parallel to the transverse axis of the vehicle.Thus, the battery module housings, thanks to their positioning and tubular shape, directly contribute to the resistance of the battery modules in the event of a lateral impact on the vehicle, so that it is not necessary to provide internal structures within the battery modules dedicated to this purpose, reducing the weight and size of the battery system.

[0009] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the battery system comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in any technically possible combination:

[0010] - Each inlet fluid fitting comprises a male element, fixed to a first among the chassis and associated terminal plate, and a female element, provided in a second among the chassis and associated terminal plate, and each fluid outlet fitting comprises a male element, fixed to a first among the chassis and associated terminal plate, and a female element, provided in a second among the chassis and associated terminal plate.

[0011] - The inlet fluid connections and the outlet fluid connections are rigid fittings, preferably quick fittings.

[0012] - The terminal plate of each battery module is located at the chassis level, along the transverse axis, and the chassis is configured to be located between the vehicle floor and the battery modules, along the vertical axis.

[0013] - The terminal plate of each battery module has a projection extending parallel to the transverse axis opposite the housing and being located at the chassis, along the transverse axis; the chassis is configured to be located between the vehicle floor and the protrusions of the battery module end plates, along the vertical axis; and the fluid inlet fitting, fluid outlet fitting and the fastening elements associated with each end plate extend between the cooling system chassis and the protrusion of the associated end plate.

[0014] - The chassis does not extend beyond the battery modules, along the vertical axis.

[0015] - The housing of each battery module is waterproof.

[0016] - The inlet duct and outlet duct are juxtaposed along the vertical axis and are aligned along the transverse axis.

[0017] - The inlet conduit is arranged closer to the terminal plates of the modules If the battery outlet conduit is located closer to the battery module terminal plates than the inlet conduit, along the vertical Z-axis, and the width of the outlet conduit, measured along the transverse axis, is greater than the width of the inlet conduit, measured along the transverse axis, the inlet fluid connections are centered relative to the chassis, along the transverse axis, and the outlet fluid connections are offset relative to the chassis, along the transverse axis. Alternatively, if the outlet conduit is located closer to the battery module terminal plates than the inlet conduit, along the vertical Z-axis, and the width of the inlet conduit, measured along the transverse axis, is greater than the width of the outlet conduit, measured along the transverse axis, the outlet fluid connections are centered relative to the chassis, along the transverse axis, and the inlet fluid connections are offset relative to the chassis, along the transverse axis.

[0018] - The battery system further comprises two electrical conductors arranged in the chassis and extending parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0019] - The chassis, the inlet fluid fittings and the outlet fluid fittings are electrically insulating and the two electrical conductors are formed respectively by the inlet conduit and by the outlet conduit.

[0020] - The chassis comprises sections placed side by side along the longitudinal axis, a length of each section, measured along the longitudinal axis, being substantially equal to a width of each battery module, measured along the longitudinal axis.

[0021] - The terminal plate of each battery module has two contacts electrical and two battery modules juxtaposed along the longitudinal axis are electrically connected in series via a battery system connection element, the connection element being electrically connected to an electrical contact of each of the two terminal plates of the two juxtaposed battery modules.

[0022] - The housing of each battery module includes a drainage channel, extending parallel to the transverse axis and opening into an external face of the battery module, the external face being located opposite the terminal plate, along the transverse axis, the vent channel being configured to allow venting of gas produced by the electrochemical cells out of the battery system, the vent channel preferably being configured to face the ground of the vehicle.

[0023] - The inlet fluid fittings, the outlet fluid fittings and the elements of The fixings extend parallel to the vertical axis.

[0024] The invention also relates to an electric or hybrid vehicle, the vehicle comprising an electric motor, a floor and a battery system fixed under the floor and supplying electrical energy to the electric motor, the battery system being as described above.

[0025] The invention will become clearer upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which:

[0026] [Fig-1] [Fig.1] is a schematic representation of a vehicle conforming to a embodiment of the invention and comprising a battery system according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0027] [Fig.2] Fig.2 is a perspective view of part of the battery system of the vehicle of the [Fig.1].

[0028] [Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a battery module belonging to the vehicle battery system of the [Fig.1].

[0029] [Fig. 4] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of part of a battery system in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

[0030] [Fig. 5] [Fig. 5] is a perspective view of four battery modules belonging to the battery system of [Fig.4].

[0031] [Fig.6] Fig.6 is a schematic representation of a vehicle conforming to another embodiment of the invention and comprising a battery system according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0032] An electric or hybrid vehicle 10 is schematically represented in [Fig. 1]. The vehicle 10 is preferably a motor vehicle.

[0033] A longitudinal axis X, a transverse axis Y, and a vertical axis Z of the vehicle 10 are defined, perpendicular to each other and corresponding respectively to the length, width, and height of the vehicle. In the following description, the terms front and rear refer to the longitudinal axis X, the terms left and right refer to the transverse axis Y, and the terms top and bottom refer to the vertical axis Z.

[0034] The vehicle 10 comprises wheels 12, here four wheels, mobile in rotation parallel to the transverse axis Y, a floor 14, visible only in [Fig.2] and extending perpendicularly to the vertical axis Z, a motor 16 allowing to propel part or all of the wheels 12 and a battery system 18 provided to supply electrical energy to the motor 16 and fixed to the floor 14, in the example under the floor 14.

[0035] Advantageously, the vehicle 10 includes an inverter 20, electrically connected to the motor 16 and the battery system 18, which allows the current and voltage delivered by the battery system to be conditioned to the motor 16.

[0036] Advantageously, the vehicle 10 includes an electrical box 22. The electrical box 22 allows the battery system 18 to be electrically connected to the inverter 20. Preferably, the electrical box 22 also allows the battery system 18 to be electrically connected to a charging connector, not shown, so as to recharge the battery system 18 using an external power supply source.

[0037] The vehicle 10 includes a hydraulic circuit 24, comprising in particular a coolant reservoir and a hydraulic pump. The hydraulic circuit 24 supplies the battery system 18 with coolant, as described below. The coolant is, for example, a dielectric fluid, such as a hydrocarbon-based fluid, a polyalphaolefin (or PAO) fluid, or a silicone fluid, or is glycol water, demineralized water, an oil, a fluorocarbon, or any other liquid that does not present a risk of corrosion to the components with which it is in contact.

[0038] Preferably, the hydraulic circuit 24 also includes a dissipative element (not shown), for example a radiator, designed to dissipate the heat extracted from the battery system 18 by the refrigerant. In other words, the dissipative element cools the refrigerant by dissipating the heat accumulated by the refrigerant as it passes through the battery system.

[0039] The battery system 18 comprises battery modules 30, each battery module 30 comprising several electrochemical cells 32, the operation of which, being known per se, is not detailed. The battery system 18 also comprises a cooling system 34, hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit 24.

[0040] In [Fig. 2], a portion of the floor 14 and the battery system 18 are shown. More specifically, two battery modules 30 placed side by side along the transverse axis Y and a portion of the cooling system 34 are shown. Of the two battery modules 30 shown in [Fig. 2], one is shown in an unassembled position, in which the battery module is away from the floor 14.

[0041] In [Fig.3], a battery module 30 is shown alone.

[0042] Each battery module 30 has a tubular housing 40 extending parallel to the transverse axis Y. In other words, the housing 40 of each battery module 30 extends across the width of the vehicle 10.

[0043] In the example of Figures 2 and 3, the housing 40 of each battery module 30 has two lateral faces 42, 44, or side walls, delimiting the battery module 30 along the longitudinal axis X, as well as a top face 46, or top wall, and a bottom face 48, or bottom wall, delimiting the battery module 30 along the vertical axis Z. Together, the faces 42 to 48, or walls, form a tube extending parallel to the transverse axis Y.

[0044] Within the battery system 18, the battery modules 30 are placed side by side along the longitudinal axis X such that, for two battery modules placed side by side along the longitudinal axis X, the lateral face 42 of the first of the two battery modules is in contact, or opposite, with the lateral face 44 of the second of the two battery modules. In practice, a mounting gap is preferably provided between two battery modules 30 placed side by side along the longitudinal axis X, thus facilitating the assembly of the battery system 18. In other words, two side-by-side battery modules 30 are preferably in contact, within the mounting gap, via their lateral faces.

[0045] Each battery module 30 has an end plate 50, extending perpendicularly to the transverse axis Y and closing one end of the housing 40 along the transverse axis Y. Advantageously, the end plate 50 of each battery module 30 has a projection 52, extending parallel to the transverse axis Y, opposite the housing 40.

[0046] Each battery module 30 has an external face 54, extending perpendicularly along the transverse axis Y and closing a second end of the housing 40 along the transverse axis Y, opposite the terminal plate 50. Thus, the terminal plate 50 and the external face 54 delimit the battery module 30 along the transverse axis Y.

[0047] In practice, the outer face 54 of each battery module 30 is a second terminal plate of the battery module.

[0048] In the example, the side faces 42, 44 of the housing 40, the terminal plate 50, and the outer face 54 of each battery module 30 are monobloc, that is, they are formed from a single piece. Furthermore, for each battery module 30, the upper face 46 and the lower face 48 are fixed to the side faces 42, 44, so that the housing 40 is not monobloc.

[0049] Here, the casing of each battery module, formed by the housing 40, the terminal plate 50 and the outer face 54, is generally parallelepiped in shape. Thus, a section of each battery module, considered perpendicular to the axis The transverse Y is rectangular. In the unrepresented variant, the shape of the casing of each battery module 30 differs.

[0050] As can be seen in [Fig. 1], the electrochemical cells 32 of each battery module 30 are arranged in the battery module housing 40 by being juxtaposed along the transverse axis Y. During the operation of the battery system 18, any possible swelling of the electrochemical cells 32 of each battery module 30 is thus prevented by the terminal plate 50 and the external face 54.

[0051] Furthermore, the housing 40 of each battery module 30 is sealed, in particular sealed against solids, liquids, and gases, isolating the electrochemical cells from the outside. More specifically, the casing of each battery module, formed by the housing 40, the terminal plate 50, and the outer face 54, is sealed. Thus, the upper face 46 and the lower face 48 are fixed to the side faces 42, 44, the terminal plate 50, and the outer face 54 in a sealed manner, for example, by using sealed fastening means or by providing sealing gaskets.

[0052] Advantageously, each battery module 30 incorporates an electronic board 55 allowing, for example, the control and / or monitoring of the operation of the battery module 30. In the example, the electronic board 55 is located at the external face 54, in other words, is fixed to the external face 54.

[0053] Advantageously, the housing 40 of each battery module 30 includes a discharge channel 56, which extends parallel to the transverse axis Y and opens into the outer face 54. Preferably, the discharge channel 56 is provided in the upper face 46, so as to face the ground 14 of the vehicle 10. The discharge channel 56 of a battery module 30 opens, along the vertical axis Z, at the level of the fusible walls 57 of the electrochemical cells 32 of the battery module. In the event of a runaway of an electrochemical cell 32, a release of hot gas may occur within the cell, leading to a pressure increase. The fusible wall 57 is dimensioned to give way under the force exerted by this pressure, so as to connect the interior of the electrochemical cell 32 to the evacuation channel 56 in the event of runaway of the electrochemical cell, thus allowing the evacuation of the gases produced out of the battery system 18.Preferably, the floor 14 also has several evacuation channels 58, each evacuation channel 58 being arranged opposite the evacuation channel 56 of a battery module 30, so as to facilitate the evacuation of gases produced by the electrochemical cells in case of runaway.

[0054] The cooling system 34 comprises a chassis 60 extending along the longitudinal axis X, i.e., perpendicular to the transverse axis Y along which the housings 40 of the battery modules 30 extend. The chassis 60 is configured to be fixed to the floor 14 of the vehicle, in the example under the floor of the vehicle.

[0055] The cooling system 34 comprises an inlet duct 62 and an outlet duct 64, both disposed in the chassis 60 and extending parallel to the longitudinal axis X. In other words, the inlet duct 62 and the outlet duct 64 extend into the chassis 60. The inlet duct 62 and the outlet duct 64 are hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit 24, such that the inlet duct 62 is supplied with refrigerant and such that the outlet duct 64 allows for the discharge of refrigerant, for example under the effect of the hydraulic pump of the hydraulic circuit 24.

[0056] In addition, each battery module 30 is hydraulically connected on one side to the inlet conduit 62 and on the other side to the outlet conduit 64, so as to allow a circulation of refrigerant fluid from the inlet conduit 62 to the inlet conduit 64 via the battery modules 30, thus allowing the cooling of the electrochemical cells 32.

[0057] In practice the refrigerant circulates in the battery modules 30 so that the electrochemical cells 32 are bathed in the refrigerant.

[0058] Alternatively, the refrigerant circulates within the battery modules 30 in one or more metal plates, referred to as "cold plates," which are in contact with the electrochemical cells 32 to cool them. For example, metal plates are interposed between the electrochemical cells 32, so that each electrochemical cell is in contact with two metal plates. Alternatively, or in addition, one or more metal plates extend parallel to the lower face 48 and / or parallel to one or both of the lateral faces 42, 44 of the housing 40, being in contact with one lower face and / or with one or two lateral faces of each electrochemical cell 32.

[0059] For this purpose, the battery system 30 includes inlet fluid connections 66 and outlet fluid connections 68.

[0060] Each inlet fluid connection 66 is associated with the terminal plate 50 of one of the battery modules 30 and extends between the chassis 60 of the cooling system 34 and the associated terminal plate 50, parallel to the vertical axis Z, so as to connect the inlet conduit 62 to the associated terminal plate, thus allowing refrigerant to circulate from the inlet conduit to the battery module 30 via the associated terminal plate. Thus, the battery system 18 has as many inlet fluid connections 66 as there are battery modules 30.

[0061] Similarly, each outlet fluid connection 68 is associated with the terminal plate 50 of one of the battery modules 30 and extends between the chassis 60 and the associated terminal plate 50, parallel to the vertical axis, so as to connect the associated terminal plate to the outlet conduit 64, thus allowing refrigerant fluid to circulate from the battery module 30 to the outlet conduit 64 via the terminal plate associated. Thus, the battery system 18 has as many outlet fluid connections 68 as battery modules 30.

[0062] Thus, a refrigerant supplied by the hydraulic circuit 24 to the inlet conduit 62 flows to the battery modules 30 via the inlet fluid connections 66, then flows to the outlet conduit 64 via the outlet fluid connections 68.

[0063] In practice, a first end of the inlet duct 62 and a first end of the outlet duct 64 are hydraulically connected to the hydraulic circuit 24 and a second end of the inlet duct 62 and a second end of the outlet duct 64 are plugged, i.e. that the inlet duct 62 and the outlet duct 64 are not directly hydraulically connected to each other, but are only hydraulically connected via the fluid fittings 66, 68 and the battery modules 30. Advantageously, the circulation of fluid within the ducts 62, 64 and within the battery modules 30 is forced by the pump of the hydraulic circuit 24 and is balanced between the different battery modules 30 because the refrigerant fluid pressures within the battery modules 30 tend to equalize.It is then understood that all the battery modules 30 are connected to the cooling system 34 in parallel, that is to say that there is no circulation of refrigerant fluid between two battery modules 30.

[0064] In the example, each inlet fluid connection 66 comprises a male element 70 which is fixed to the frame 60 and a female element 72 which is provided in the associated end plate 50, preferably in the projection 52. Similarly, each outlet fluid connection 68 comprises a male element 74 which is fixed to the frame and a female element 76 which is provided in the associated end plate 50, preferably in the projection 52. In a non-shown variant of the invention, the male elements 70, 74 are fixed to the associated end plate 50, preferably to the projection 52, and the female elements 72, 76 are provided in the frame 60.

[0065] Advantageously, the inlet fluid fittings 66 and outlet fluid fittings 68 are rigid fittings, preferably quick-connect fittings. Thus, connecting their male element 70, 74 with their female element 72, 76 is simple and efficient. Preferably, the inlet fluid fittings 66 and outlet fluid fittings 68 are designed so that they can be connected by a simple bringing-together movement of their male element 70, 74 with their female element 72, 76, without requiring any additional operation, such as screwing or manipulating an engagement element. In this way, positioning the battery modules 30 against the vehicle floor 14 and the terminal plates 50 against the chassis 60 is sufficient to connect the battery modules to the inlet 62 and outlet 64 conduits. In a non-shown variant of the invention, the Fluid inlet fittings 66 and fluid outlet fittings 68 are of a different type, such as screw fittings.

[0066] In practice, the projection 52 of each terminal plate 50 is located at the chassis 60, along the transverse axis Y, so that the chassis 60 is located between the floor 14 of the vehicle 10 and the projections 52 of the terminal plates 50 of the battery modules 30, along the vertical axis Z. Thus, the inlet fluid connection 66 and the outlet fluid connection 68 associated with each terminal plate 50 extend between the chassis 60 and the projection 52 of said terminal plate, allowing the fluid connections to extend between the chassis and the associated terminal plate 50 along the vertical axis Z.

[0067] Advantageously, a height H40 of the housing 40 of each battery module 30, measured along the vertical axis Z, is greater than or equal to the sum of a height H52 of the projection 52 of each battery module 30 and a chassis height H60, measured along the vertical axis. Thus, the chassis 60 does not extend beyond the battery modules 30, along the vertical axis Z, as shown in [Fig. 2].

[0068] In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, battery modules 30 are arranged on either side of the chassis 60, along the transverse axis Y; that is, battery modules 30 are arranged to the left and right of the chassis. The chassis 60 is thus positioned at the center of the battery system 18, along the transverse axis Y. In other words, in the example, the battery modules 30 are aligned in pairs along the longitudinal axis X. Thus, a length L30A of each battery module 30 corresponds to approximately half a width L18 of the battery system 18.

[0069] Preferably, the inlet duct 62 and the outlet duct 64 are juxtaposed along the vertical axis Z and are aligned along the transverse axis Y. In the example, the inlet duct 62 and the outlet duct 64 are centered with respect to the chassis 60, along the transverse axis.

[0070] Advantageously, as can be seen in Figures 2 and 3, the outlet conduit 64 is positioned above the inlet conduit 62, along the vertical axis Z, i.e., the outlet conduit is closer to the ground than the inlet conduit. Furthermore, a width L64 of the outlet conduit 64, measured along the transverse axis Y, is greater than a width L62 of the inlet conduit 62, measured along the transverse axis. In addition, the inlet fluid fittings 66 are centered with respect to the frame 60, along the transverse axis Y, and the outlet fluid fittings 68 are offset with respect to the frame, along the transverse axis. Thanks to this design of the cooling system 34, the compactness of the cooling system is improved, because a single inlet duct 62 and a single outlet duct 64 are sufficient to allow circulation of refrigerant fluid in the battery modules 30 arranged on either side of the chassis 60, along the transverse axis Y.This design of the cooling system 34 is therefore particularly advantageous in the example, where the . Battery modules 30 are arranged on either side of the chassis 60, along the transverse axis Y. This advantageous design is made possible by the shape of the end plates 50, visible in particular in Figures 2 and 3, which allows two modules arranged on either side of the chassis 60, along the transverse axis Y, to interlock, thus enabling the corresponding inlet fluid connections 66 to be centered with respect to the chassis 60. In practice, each end plate 50 has a recess and a protrusion of complementary shapes. In the example, the recess and protrusion are S-shaped. Thus, for two battery modules 30 arranged on either side of the chassis 60 along the transverse axis Y, the protrusion of the end plate of the first module fits into the recess of the end plate of the second module.Furthermore, the female element 72 of the associated inlet fluid fitting 66, being attached to a terminal plate 50, is provided in the protrusion of the terminal plate, thus allowing the inlet fluid fittings 66 to be centered relative to the chassis 60 along the transverse axis Y.

[0071] In a non-shown variant of the invention, the position of the inlet ducts 62 and outlet ducts 64 are reversed, so that the inlet duct is arranged above the outlet duct, along the vertical axis Z. In such a variant, the width L62 of the inlet duct 62 is greater than the width L64 of the outlet duct 64, the outlet fluid fittings 68 are centered with respect to the chassis and the inlet fluid fittings 66 are offset with respect to the chassis.

[0072] In a non-shown variant of the invention, the cooling system 34 comprises two inlet ducts 62 and an outlet duct 64, the inlet ducts 62 being arranged on either side of the outlet duct 64, along the transverse axis Y, such that one of the two inlet ducts supplies refrigerant to the battery modules 30 located on one side of the chassis 30, along the transverse axis Y, and the other of the two inlet ducts supplies refrigerant to the battery modules 30 located on the other side of the chassis 30, along the transverse axis Y. According to another similar variant, the cooling system 34 comprises an inlet duct 62 and two outlet ducts 64 arranged on either side of the inlet duct.

[0073] Advantageously, each battery module 30 is fixed to the ground 14, on the one hand at the level of its terminal plate 50 and on the other hand at the level of its external face 54.

[0074] In particular, the battery system 18 comprises fastening elements 80, each fastening element 80 being associated with the terminal plate 50 of one of the battery modules 30 and extending between the chassis 60 of the cooling system 34 and the associated terminal plate, parallel to the vertical axis Z. Thus, each fastening element 80 allows the associated terminal plate 50 to be fixed to the chassis 60 and therefore, indirectly, to the floor 16 of the vehicle. In the example, each element of The fixing 80 extends between the chassis 60 of the cooling system 34 and the protrusion 52 of the associated end plate 50.

[0075] The terminal plates 50 of the battery modules 30 therefore allow both the battery modules to be fixed to the chassis and the battery modules to be hydraulically connected to the inlet 62 and outlet 64 conduits, thus improving the compactness of the battery system 18.

[0076] Since the fastening elements 80 extend along the vertical axis Z, like the inlet fluid connections 66 and outlet fluid connections 68, a movement of a battery module 30 towards the chassis 60, along the vertical axis Z, simultaneously allows the battery module to be positioned to allow the installation of the fastening elements 80 and the engagement of the inlet fluid connections 66 and outlet fluid connections 68.

[0077] In the example, each fastening element 80 comprises a threaded element 82, preferably a screw, which extends through the projection 52 of the associated end plate and is screwed into a nut 84 of the fastening element 80, such as a rivet nut, the nut 84 being fixed to the chassis 60. In a variant not shown, other types of fastening elements 80 may be used. The use of threaded elements 82 and nuts 84 is particularly advantageous for facilitating the mounting of the end plates 50 onto the chassis 60, as this mounting is carried out simply by positioning the battery modules 30 against the floor 14 and against the chassis 60, and then screwing in the threaded elements 82.

[0078] In the example, each end plate 50 is fixed to the chassis 60 using two fixing elements 80. In a variant not shown, a different number of fixing elements 80 can be used to fix each end plate to the chassis, for example one or four fixing elements.

[0079] Advantageously, each battery module 30 is also fixed to the ground 14 at its outer face 54 by means of fastening elements 86, in the example by means of two fastening elements. Here, the fastening elements 86 are comparable to the fastening elements 80, that is to say, they comprise a threaded element passing through the outer face 54 extending parallel to the vertical axis Z and a nut fixed to the ground 14.

[0080] Preferably, the chassis 60 comprises sections placed side-by-side along the longitudinal axis X such that a length L60 of each section, measured along the longitudinal axis, is equal to a width L30B of each battery module 30, measured along the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, each section is fixed to the ground 14. Thus, the cooling system 34 is easily assembled by joining several sections to form the chassis 60. This sectional design of the chassis 60 is particularly advantageous for easily adapting the length of the chassis 60, depending on the number of battery modules 30 in the battery system 18. In practice, the length L60 of Each section is preferably not exactly equal to the width L30B of each battery module 30, but is substantially equal to this width L30B, since a mounting gap is preferably provided between two adjacent battery modules 30 placed along the longitudinal axis X to facilitate their assembly. In other words, the length L60 of each section is substantially equal to the width L30B of each battery module 30, within the mounting gap.

[0081] Advantageously, the battery system 18 comprises two electrical conductors which are arranged in the chassis 60 of the cooling system 34 and which extend parallel to the longitudinal axis X. In the example, the two electrical conductors are formed respectively by the inlet conduit 62 and by the outlet conduit 64. For this purpose, the inlet conduit 62 and outlet conduit 64 are formed in an electrically conductive material while the chassis 60, the inlet fluid fittings 66 and the outlet fluid fittings 68 are electrically insulating, that is to say they are formed in an electrically insulating material.The fact that the inlet conduit 62 and the outlet conduit 64 form two electrical conductors is particularly advantageous for enabling an electrical connection between the front and rear of the vehicle 10, i.e., between the front part of the battery system 18 and the rear part of the battery system, along the longitudinal axis X. For example, the two electrical conductors allow the inverter 20 to be electrically connected to the electrical box 22. Since the electrical conductors are formed by the inlet conduit 62 and the outlet conduit 64, the vehicle's compactness is improved, as it is not necessary to provide dedicated conductors.

[0082] When the inlet duct 62 and the outlet duct 64 are electrically conductive, such that they form two electrical conductors, the refrigerant used in the cooling system 34, i.e., the refrigerant circulating in the inlet and outlet ducts, is preferably a dielectric refrigerant, so as not to conduct electricity and not to impede the conduction of electricity in the inlet and outlet ducts. Alternatively, or in addition, an inner wall of the inlet duct 62 and an inner wall of the outlet duct 64 are coated with a layer of electrical insulation.

[0083] Advantageously, the terminal plate 50 of each battery module 30 has two electrical contacts 88. Preferably, the electrical contacts 88 are located on the underside 48 of the housing 40, i.e., on the side opposite the inlet 66 and outlet 68 fluid connections. In the example, the electrical contacts 88 extend from the projection 52 along the vertical axis Z, away from the chassis 60. In other words, the electrical contacts 88 extend opposite the inlet 66 and outlet 68 fluid connections. Furthermore, in the example, each electrical contact 88 is formed of two conductive rods. In practice, one of the two electrical contacts 88 is connected to a negative terminal of the electrochemical cells 32 while the other of the two electrical contacts 88 is connected to a positive terminal of the electrochemical cells.

[0084] Furthermore, in the example, the first of the two electrical contacts 88 is located near the side face 42 of the housing 40 while the second of the two electrical contacts is located near the side face 44 of the housing.

[0085] By means of electrical contacts 88, two battery modules placed side-by-side along the longitudinal axis X are electrically connected in series. More specifically, the electrical contact 80 located near the side face 42 of the housing 40 of the first of the two side-by-side battery modules is electrically connected to the electrical contact 80 located near the side face 44 of the housing 40 of the second of the two side-by-side battery modules. Furthermore, the electrical connection between two electrical contacts 88 is made with a battery system connection element 18, which is not shown in Figures 1 to 3. Preferably, each connection element is an interconnecting bar, which allows the two battery modules 30 placed side-by-side along the longitudinal axis X to be joined together, in addition to allowing the series electrical connection of the two battery modules.

[0086] The terminal plates 50 of the battery modules 30 thus allow both the battery modules to be fixed to the chassis, the battery modules to be hydraulically connected to the inlet 62 and outlet 64 conduits and the battery modules to be electrically connected to each other, thus improving the compactness of the battery system 18.

[0087] In the example, for each battery module 30, the projection 52 has two recesses 90, arranged respectively at the level of the electrical contacts 88, so that each electrical contact 88 extends from one of the two recesses 90 along the vertical axis Z towards the lower face 48, but without extending beyond the lower face 48 of the housing 40. In other words, the electrical contacts 88 do not protrude from the lower face 48, reducing the risk of damaging the electrical contacts when the battery modules are handled or transported.

[0088] One advantage of the battery system 18 is its particularly simple assembly. This assembly is first carried out by fixing the chassis 60 to the floor 14, in this example under the floor 14, and more specifically by juxtaposing the different sections of the chassis along the longitudinal axis X. Next, the battery modules 30 are positioned against the floor 14 and against the chassis 60 by being moved along the vertical axis Z, allowing the terminal plates 50 to be connected to the inlet conduit 62 and the outlet conduit 64, respectively with the inlet fluid connections 66 and the outlet fluid connections 68, without any manipulation of the inlet and outlet fluid connections being required. The battery modules 30 are then The battery modules are fixed, on one side, to the chassis 60 using the fastening elements 80, and on the other side to the floor 14 using the fastening elements 86. Finally, the battery modules 30 are electrically connected to each other using the electrical contacts 88, which are electrically connected using the connecting elements. In particular, thanks to the design of the battery system 18, no intervention on the cooling system 34 is necessary during the assembly of the battery system, as simply positioning the battery modules is sufficient to connect them to the inlet conduit 62 and the outlet conduit 64.

[0089] Another advantage of the battery system 18 is that its architecture strengthens the vehicle 10 by increasing its rigidity. Indeed, the casing 40 of each battery module, being tubular and extending along the transverse axis Y, reinforces both the battery system 18 and the vehicle by increasing their rigidity along the transverse axis, as the tubular casing is particularly well-suited to resisting compressive forces oriented along the transverse axis. Thus, in the event of a lateral impact against the vehicle 10, the risk of damage to the electrochemical cells 32 is reduced, because the casings 40 of the battery modules help absorb the shock and protect the electrochemical cells. Similarly, excessive deformation of the vehicle along the transverse axis Y is avoided, in particular, crushing of the vehicle against the ground 14.It is noted that, thanks to the design of the battery system 18 and the tubular housings 40, the battery system 18 is advantageously devoid of any other cross members extending along the transverse axis Y, as such cross members are unnecessary. Furthermore, the fact that the chassis 60 of the cooling system 34 extends along the longitudinal axis X is particularly advantageous for stiffening the battery system 18 and the vehicle 10 along the longitudinal axis, since the chassis 60 acts as a cross member, i.e., as a longitudinal reinforcement. In addition to housing the inlet duct 62 and the outlet duct 64, the chassis 60 thus acts as a mechanical reinforcement that contributes to the strength and rigidity of the vehicle 10.

[0090] Furthermore, the rigidity of the battery system 18 is also improved by means of the connecting elements, here interconnecting bars, which connect the electrical contacts 88 of two adjacent battery modules 30. Indeed, these connecting elements also allow two adjacent battery modules 30 to be mechanically fastened together.

[0091] Furthermore, the fact that the discharge channel 56 of each battery module opens into the outer face 54 is particularly advantageous for improving the safety of the battery system 18. Indeed, the hot gases potentially released by the electrochemical cells 32 are liable to damage the electrical contacts 88 and the inlet 66 and outlet 68 fluid connections, so that it is It is advantageous to evacuate them on the opposite side of these components, that is to say towards the external face 54.

[0092] In an alternative embodiment of the invention not shown, the battery modules 30 are not fixed under the floor 14, but on the floor, that is to say, they are located above the floor and not below it. In such an alternative embodiment, the chassis 60 is still arranged between the floor 14 and the projections 52 of the end plates 50, but is thus arranged below the end plates. In such an alternative embodiment, as in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3, the conduit between the inlet conduit 62 and the outlet conduit 64 that is closest to the floor 14, along the vertical axis Z, has a wider width than the conduit furthest from the floor 14, and the fluid inlet fittings 66 or outlet fittings 68 associated with this conduit are offset relative to the chassis 60.

[0093] Another embodiment of the battery system 18 is now described, with reference to Figures 4 and 5. The battery system 18 according to the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5 is suitable for use in the vehicle 10 of [Fig. 1]. In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the elements analogous to those in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3 have the same reference numerals and function in the same way. If a reference numeral is used in the description of the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5 but is not reproduced in Figures 4 and 5, it corresponds to the part or component bearing the same reference numeral in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3. The following primarily describes the differences between each embodiment and the preceding one.

[0094] In [Fig.4], part of the battery system 18 according to the second embodiment is shown, with seven battery modules 30 shown.

[0095] In [Fig.5], only four battery modules 30 juxtaposed along the longitudinal axis X are shown.

[0096] As in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, the battery system 18 of the second embodiment comprises several battery modules 30 juxtaposed along the longitudinal axis X as well as battery modules 30 arranged on both sides of the chassis 60 of the cooling system 34, so that the battery modules 30 are aligned two by two, along the longitudinal axis X.

[0097] In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the housing 40 of each battery module 30 is a single piece, that is to say, it comprises two lateral faces 42, 44, or side walls, a top face 46, or top wall, and a bottom face 48, or bottom wall, which are a single piece. For example, the housing 40 is formed from a tube with a rectangular cross-section, preferably an aluminum tube.

[0098] In addition, the terminal plate 50 and the external face 54 are not monobloc with the housing 40, that is to say they are separate from the housing and fixed to the housing.

[0099] Thus, in the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5, the electrochemical cells 32 are introduced into the housing 40 through one of the two ends of the housing, according to the transverse axis Y, corresponding to the module axis. For example, the electrochemical cells 32 are introduced into the case 40 by the end of the case located at the terminal plate 50, along the transverse axis Y, before the terminal plate 50 is fixed to the case.

[0100] The cooling system 34 comprises an outlet duct 64 and two inlet ducts 62, arranged on either side of the outlet duct 64, along the transverse axis Y. All battery modules 30 are hydraulically connected to the outlet duct 64, while the battery modules arranged to the left of the chassis 60, along the transverse axis Y, are hydraulically connected to the inlet duct 62 arranged to the left of the outlet duct 64, and the battery modules arranged to the right of the chassis 60 are hydraulically connected to the inlet duct 62 arranged to the right of the outlet duct. In a non-shown embodiment of the invention, the cooling system comprises an inlet duct 62 and two outlet ducts 64, arranged on either side of the inlet duct 62, along the transverse axis Y.

[0101] The cooling system 34 includes supports 92, which extend from the chassis 60 along the vertical axis Z, here downwards. In practice, the supports 92 are aligned in pairs along the longitudinal axis X.

[0102] Here, each inlet fluid connection 66 comprises a male element 70, which is fixed to the associated terminal plate 50, and a female element 72, which is provided in one of the supports 92 of the chassis 60. Similarly, each outlet fluid connection 68 comprises a male element 74, which is fixed to the associated terminal plate 50, and a female element 76, which is provided in one of the supports 92 of the chassis 60. In practice, the female elements 72, 76 for connecting the battery modules 30 arranged on the left side of the chassis 60 to the inlet conduit 62 located to the left of the outlet conduit 64 are provided in a support 92 located on the left half of the chassis 60, and the female elements 72, 76 for connecting the battery modules 30 arranged on the right side of the chassis 60 to the inlet conduit 62 located to the right of the outlet conduit. 64 are housed in a support 92 located on the right half of the chassis 60.

[0103] In addition, the terminal plate 50 of each battery module 30 does not have a projection 52, but has two recesses 94, the male element 70 of the corresponding inlet fluid fitting 66 being fixed in one of the two recesses 94 and the male element 74 of the corresponding outlet fluid fitting 68 being fixed in the other of the two recesses 94. Moreover, as can be seen in [Fig. 5], for two battery modules 30 juxtaposed along the longitudinal axis X, two of their recesses 94 are juxtaposed, i.e. are arranged next to each other, so that one of the supports 92 of the cooling system 34 fits into these two recesses. In other words, the supports 92 of the cooling system 34 have a shape complementary to the shape of two notches 94 of two adjacent battery modules.

[0104] Advantageously, for each battery module 30, a first notch 94 is located at the level of the lateral face 42 and a second notch is located at the level of the lateral face 44, along the longitudinal axis X.

[0105] Thus, the terminal plate 50 of each battery module 30 is located at the chassis 60, along the transverse axis Y, so that the chassis is located between the ground 14 and the terminal plates of the battery modules, along the vertical axis Z.

[0106] As in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3, each battery module 30 has electrical contacts 88, which are electrically connected in pairs, for connecting the battery modules 30 in series, using connecting elements 96. In the example, the connecting elements 96 are interconnecting bars. The electrical contacts 88 of each battery module 30 extend along the vertical axis Z from the terminal plate 50 of the battery module, more precisely from the notches 90 of the terminal plate, so that the electrical contacts 88 do not extend beyond the lower face 48 of the housing 40.

[0107] Each battery module 30 is fixed to the floor 14 of the vehicle using the fixing elements 80 and the fixing elements 86.

[0108] In particular, for each battery module 30, the terminal plate 50 is fixed to two supports 92 using two fixing elements 80, so that the terminal plate is indirectly fixed to the ground 14, via the supports 92 and the chassis 60.

[0109] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the battery system 18 also includes two cross members 98, which are fixed to the floor 14, in the example below the floor. Each cross member 98 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis X, i.e., parallel to the chassis 60. In addition, the cross members 98 are preferably aligned with the chassis 60 along the vertical axis Z. Of the two cross members 98, one is located to the left of the chassis 60 and the other is located to the right of the chassis.

[0110] The battery system 18 also includes supports 100, which are attached to the cross members 98 and extend downwards along the vertical axis Z. The supports 100 have a shape comparable to, preferably identical to, the shape of the supports 92. In addition, the fastening elements 86 allow the outer faces 54 of the battery modules 30 to be attached to the supports 100, rather than directly attaching the outer faces 54 to the vehicle floor as in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0111] Furthermore, the outer face 54 of each battery module 30 has two recesses 102, which receive the supports 100 when the outer faces are fixed to the supports 100 by the fastening elements 86. For two battery modules 30 placed side by side along the longitudinal axis X, two of their recesses 102 are side by side, that is, they are arranged next to each other, so that one of the supports 100 fixed One of the cross members 98 fits into these two recesses. In other words, the supports 100 have a shape complementary to the shape of two recesses 102 of two adjacent battery modules.

[0112] Thus, the battery modules 30 arranged on the left of the chassis 60 are fixed on one side to the chassis and on the other side to the cross member 98 located on the left of the chassis 60 and the battery modules 30 arranged on the right of the chassis 60 are fixed on one side to the chassis and on the other side to the cross member 98 located on the right of the chassis.

[0113] Another embodiment of the vehicle 10 is now described with reference to [Fig. 6]. In the embodiment of [Fig. 6], elements analogous to those in the embodiments of Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 4 and 5 bear the same reference numerals and function in the same way. If a reference numeral is used in the description of the embodiment of [Fig. 6] but is not reproduced in [Fig. 6], it corresponds to the part or component bearing the same reference numeral in the embodiments of Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 4 and 5. The following primarily describes the differences between each embodiment and the preceding one.

[0114] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation similar to that of Fig. 1, of a vehicle 10 comprising wheels 12, a floor 14, a motor 16, a battery system 18, an inverter 20, an electrical box 22 and a hydraulic circuit 24.

[0115] The battery system 18 is similar to that of the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, except that the cooling system 34, and in particular the chassis 60, is arranged at one end of the battery system 18, along the transverse axis Y. Thus, the battery modules 30 are not aligned in pairs, along the longitudinal axis X, and the battery system 18 has battery modules 30 only on one side of the chassis 60.

[0116] In particular, the battery modules 30 extend over the entire width of the battery system 18, their length L30A, measured along the transverse axis Y, being substantially equal to the width L18 of the battery system 18, measured along the transverse axis Y.

[0117] Such an architecture has the advantage of facilitating the assembly of the battery system 18, which has a smaller number of battery modules 30. Indeed, in the example of [Fig.6], each battery module has twice as many electrochemical cells 32 as the battery modules of the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, so that the battery system 18 has half as many battery modules 30 but the same number of electrochemical cells 32.

[0118] In the embodiments described above, the battery modules 30 are mounted by bringing the battery modules closer to the ground 14 along the vertical axis Z, i.e., the inlet fluid connections 66, the outlet fluid connections 68 and the fixing elements 80 extend along the vertical axis Z, which allows for simplified assembly of the battery system 18.

[0119] In a non-shown variant of the invention, the battery modules 30 are mounted by bringing the battery modules closer to the ground 14 along an axis oblique to the vertical axis Z. Bringing the battery modules 30 closer to the ground 14 at an angle to the vertical axis Z is, for example, advantageous for space reasons, when sufficient space to bring them closer along the vertical axis Z is not available.

[0120] Thus, in such a variant, the inlet fluid connections 66 and the outlet fluid connections 68 extend between the chassis 60 of the cooling system 34 and the associated end plate 50 obliquely to the vertical axis Z, i.e. obliquely with respect to the vertical axis Z. In such a variant, the mounting of the battery modules 30 on the floor 14 is also carried out without any manipulation of the inlet and outlet fluid connections being required.

[0121] Furthermore, in such a variant, the fastening elements 80 extend between the chassis 60 of the cooling system 34 and the associated end plate 50 either parallel to the vertical axis Z or obliquely to the vertical axis Z, i.e., obliquely with respect to the vertical axis Z. Indeed, the fact that the inlet fluid connections 66 and outlet fluid connections 68 extend obliquely to the vertical axis Z does not necessarily imply that the fastening elements 80 also extend obliquely to the vertical axis Z. In other words, it is not necessary for the fastening elements 80 to extend parallel to the inlet fluid connections 66 and outlet fluid connections 68. Thus, it is also understood that, when the inlet fluid connections 66 and outlet fluid connections 68 extend parallel to the vertical axis Z, it is also possible for the fastening elements 80 extend obliquely to the vertical Z axis.

[0122] By "a component extends obliquely with respect to the vertical axis Z" or "a component extends obliquely with respect to the vertical axis Z", it is understood here that an oriented angle formed between the direction in which said component extends and the vertical axis Z is between -45° and 45°. In other words, an angle between the direction in which said component extends and the longitudinal axis X, measured in a plane passing through the longitudinal axis X and the vertical axis Z, is greater than 45°, and an angle between the direction in which said component extends and the transverse axis Y, measured in a plane passing through the transverse axis Y and the vertical axis Z, is greater than 45°. Any feature described for an embodiment or variant in the foregoing may also be implemented for the other embodiments and variants described above, insofar as it is technically feasible. Nomenclature#:

[0123] 10: vehicle; 12: wheels; 14: vehicle floor; 16: engine; 18: system of Batteries; 20: Inverter; 22: Electrical box; 24: Hydraulic circuit; 30: Battery module; 32: Electrochemical cell; 34: Cooling system; 40: Housing; 42: Side view of housing; 44: Side view of housing; 46: Top view of housing; 48: Bottom view of housing; 50: End plate; 52: End plate protrusion; 54: External face; 56: Battery module drain channel; 57: Fuse wall; 58: Floor drain channel; 60: Cooling system chassis; 62: Inlet duct; 64: Outlet duct; 66: Inlet fluid fittings; 68: Outlet fluid fittings; 70: Male element of inlet fluid fittings; 72: Female element of inlet fluid fittings; 74: Male element of outlet fluid fittings; 76: female element of the fluid outlet fittings; 80: fixing elements; 82: screw; 84: nut; 86: fixing elements; 88: electrical contacts;90: end plate recess; 92: supports; 94: end plate recesses; 96: connecting elements; 98: cross members; 100: supports; 102: external face recesses.

Claims

1. Demands Battery system (18), for an electric or hybrid vehicle (10), the battery system (18) being configured to be installed on a floor (14) of the vehicle (10) and comprising: - battery modules (30), each battery module (30) comprising: • a housing (40), the housing being tubular and extending parallel to a transverse axis (Y) configured to correspond to a transverse axis of the vehicle (10), • several electrochemical cells (32) arranged in the housing (40), and • a terminal plate (50), closing one end of the housing (40) along the transverse axis (Y), - a cooling system (34), comprising: • a chassis (60), extending along a longitudinal axis (X) perpendicular to the transverse axis (Y) and configured to correspond to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle (10), the chassis (60) being configured to be fixed to the floor (14) of the vehicle, • an inlet duct (62), extending in the chassis (60) parallel to the longitudinal axis (X), the inlet duct being configured to be supplied with refrigerant, • an outlet duct (64), extending into the chassis (60) parallel to the longitudinal axis (X), the outlet duct being configured to allow the discharge of refrigerant fluid, - inlet fluid connections (66), each inlet fluid connection (66) being associated with the terminal plate (50) of one of the battery modules (30) and extending between the chassis (60) of the cooling system (34) and the associated terminal plate (50), parallel or oblique to a vertical axis (Z) perpendicular to the transverse axis (Y) and the longitudinal axis (X), each inlet fluid connection (66) connecting the inlet conduit (62) to the associated terminal plate (50), so as to allow a

2.

3.

4. refrigerant fluid circulation from the inlet duct to the battery module (30) via the associated terminal plate, - outlet fluid fittings (68), each outlet fluid fitting (68) being associated with the terminal plate (50) of one of the battery modules (30) and extending between the chassis (60) of the cooling system (34) and the associated terminal plate (50), parallel or oblique to the vertical axis (Z), each outlet fluid fitting (68) connecting the associated terminal plate (50) to the outlet duct (64), so as to allow refrigerant fluid to circulate from the battery module (30) to the outlet duct via the associated terminal plate, and - fastening elements (80), each fastening element (80) being associated with the terminal plate (50) of one of the battery modules (30) and extending between the chassis (60) of the cooling system (34) and the associated terminal plate, parallel or oblique to the vertical axis (Z), each fastening element (80) fixing the associated terminal plate (50) to the chassis (60). Battery system (18) according to claim 1, wherein each inlet fluid connection (66) comprises a male element (70), fixed to a first element of the frame (60) and the associated end plate (50), and a female element (72), formed in a second element of the frame (60) and the associated end plate (50), and wherein each outlet fluid connection (68) comprises a male element (74), fixed to a first element of the frame (60) and the associated end plate (50), and a female element (76), formed in a second element of the frame (60) and the associated end plate (50). Battery system (18) according to claim 2, wherein the inlet fluid connections (66) and the outlet fluid connections (68) are rigid connections, preferably quick-connect fittings.Battery system (18) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the terminal plate (50) of each battery module (30) is located at the chassis (60), along the transverse axis (Y), and wherein the chassis (60) is configured to be located between the ground (14) of the.

5.

6.

7. vehicle (105 and the terminal plates (50) of the battery modules (30), along the vertical axis (Z). Battery system (18) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein: - the terminal plate (50) of each battery module (30) has a projection (52), extending parallel to the transverse axis (Y) opposite the housing (40) and being located at the level of the chassis (60), along the transverse axis (Y), - the chassis (60) is configured to be located between the floor (14) of the vehicle (10) and the protrusions (52) of the terminal plates (50) of the battery modules (30), along the vertical axis (Z), and - the inlet fluid connection (66), the outlet fluid connection (68) and the fixing elements (80) associated with each end plate (50) extend between the chassis (60) of the cooling system (34) and the projection (52) of the associated end plate (50). Battery system (18) according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the inlet conduit (62) and the outlet conduit (64) are juxtaposed along the vertical axis (Z) and are aligned along the transverse axis (Y). Battery system (18) according to claim 6, wherein: - the inlet conduit (62) is positioned closer to the terminal plates (50) of the battery modules (30) than the outlet conduit (64), along the vertical axis Z; a width (L64) of the outlet conduit (64), measured along the transverse axis (Y), is greater than a width (L62) of the inlet conduit (62), measured along the transverse axis (Y); the inlet fluid connections (66) are centered relative to the chassis (60), along the transverse axis (Y), and the outlet fluid connections (68) are offset relative to the chassis (60), along the transverse axis (Y); or - the outlet conduit (64) is arranged closer to the terminal plates (50) of the battery modules (30) than the inlet conduit (62), along the vertical axis Z, a width (L62) of the inlet conduit (62), measured along the transverse axis (Y), is greater than a width (L64) of the outlet conduit (64), measured along the transverse axis (Y), the outlet fluid fittings (68) are centered with respect to the chassis (60), along the transverse axis (Y), and the inlet fluid fittings (66) are offset with respect to the chassis (60), along the transverse axis (Y).

8. Battery system (18) according to any one of claims 1-7, further comprising two electrical conductors (62, 64) arranged in the chassis (60) and extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (X).

9. Battery system (18) according to claim 8, wherein the chassis (60), the inlet fluid connections (66) and the outlet fluid connections (68) are electrically insulating and wherein the two electrical conductors (62, 64) are formed respectively by the inlet conduit (62) and by the outlet conduit (64).

10. Battery system (18) according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the terminal plate (50) of each battery module (30) has two electrical contacts (88) and wherein two battery modules (30) juxtaposed along the longitudinal axis (X) are electrically connected in series via a connecting element (96) of the battery system (18), the connecting element (96) being electrically connected to an electrical contact (88) of each of the two terminal plates (50) of the two juxtaposed battery modules (30).

11. Battery system (18) according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the housing (40) of each battery module has a vent channel (56), extending parallel to the transverse axis (Y) and opening into an external face (54) of the battery module (30), the external face (54) being located opposite the terminal plate (50), along the transverse axis (Y), the vent channel (56) being configured to permit venting of gas produced by the electrochemical cells (32) out of the battery system (18), the vent channel (56) preferably being configured to face the ground (14) of the vehicle (10).

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