Battery transport box

Abstract

Disclosed is a battery transport box having a storage space for holding one or more battery modules, wherein the storage space is enclosed by a double-walled housing, the double- walled housing comprising an outer wall and an inner wall with a gap formed therebetween, wherein the inner wall has a plurality of openings connecting the gap and the storage space, and wherein one or more mats of absorption material are arranged in the gap.

Description

[0001] BATTERY TRANSPORT BOX

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a battery transport box and use thereof for storing and / or transporting battery modules.

[0004] TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0005] The present disclosure relates, in general terms, to a battery transport box.

[0006] Battery transport boxes often are generic in their configuration, which renders them inadequate or inefficient for handling battery modules.

[0007] There is a general need to improve battery transport boxes to allow for more adequate or efficient handling of battery modules.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] I n one aspect, disclosed is a battery transport box having a storage space for holding one or more battery modules, wherein the storage space is enclosed by a double-walled housing, the double-walled housing comprising an outer wall and an inner wall with a gap formed therebetween, wherein the inner wall has a plurality of openings connecting the gap and the storage space, and wherein the battery transport box comprises one or more mats of absorption material arranged in the gap.

[0010] I n another aspect, disclosed is a use of the battery transport box according to any of the preceding claims for storing and / or transporting one or more battery modules.

[0011] As will be recognized from the following discussion, the present invention provides a battery transport box and use thereof that allow for adequate and efficient handling of battery modules.

[0012] Such a battery transport box allows for storage and transport of battery modules wherein any absorption material used for absorbing potential leakage remains securely arranged at a proper position and can be easily exchanged. Leakage from the battery modules can nonetheless reliably be absorbed through the openings. Moreover, the assembly and disassembly of the battery transport box with the absorption material is easy and does not require particular skill or machinery. Moreover, there is no risk, when emptying the storage space, of accidentally also emptying out the absorption material.

[0013] The present application allows for providing a battery transport box that, as will be seen below, is also configured to be used as a process box in a battery (module) processing plant, such as a black mass production plant. I n the context of automatic processing in a battery module processing plant, not only the storage and transport, but particularly also the transfer of battery modules to certain process steps is important. This can involve emptying the contents of battery transport box.

[0014] Automation of the processes involving transfer of battery modules is very difficult, among others due to their variability. Indeed, handling of individual battery modules by a robot with present technology is difficult, particularly taking the battery modules out of the box.

[0015] It is also inefficient where the battery modules could also, in principle, be collectively transferred. Such collective transferring, e.g. by tipping over the box, is made possible with the present battery transport box. Its configuration allows for emptying all battery modules while retaining any material that should not be introduced into subsequent processes, particularly absorption material. Moreover, it can be avoided that absorption material layers obstruct the passage of the battery modules when emptying them.

[0016] Accordingly, the configuration that allows for emptying the battery transport box without accidentally also emptying the absorption material is particularly advantageous, as this allows for automatic handling of the battery transport box, particularly for transferring battery modules to subsequent processes.

[0017] As another effect, holding back the absorber material when emptying the battery transport box also allows for reusing the absorber material. This would be difficult and inefficient with absorber material that is loosely introduced into the battery transport box, particularly when aiming at automatic processes.

[0018] I n the present disclosure, absorption refers to absorption of liquid, such as leakage from the battery modules. That is, the absorption material may be seen as a material configured to absorb liquid. Absorption material may also be referred to as absorbent or absorptive material.

[0019] I n view of the above, a particularly adequate and efficient box for handling of battery modules is provided.

[0020] Specifically, it is required to allow for liquid, such as electrolytes, leaking from the battery modules to reach the absorption material. The claimed configuration allows for providing the absorption material in a separate space from the storage space while still allowing liquid from the storage space to reach the absorption material. Providing the absorption material in a separate space, as an example, allows for handling battery modules more freely, as the absorption material is not impacted by moving around the box and the battery modules, even when emptying the box by turning it upside down. Moreover, the absorption material will not be at risk of being significantly displaced within the storage space.

[0021] Providing absorption material as a mat, particularly in the double-walled housing as claimed, allows for the absorption material to remain essentially in place and particularly to remain evenly distributed throughout the handling process, for example as compared to lose absorption material. The risk of the absorption material inadvertently leaking from the double-walled housing is also low in view of being provided as a mat. This is, for example, for a loose absorption material, there is a need to allow fluid from the battery modules to reach the absorption material and at the same time to keep the absorption material from the battery modules, which are contrasting requirements and might lead to leakage of loose absorption material from where it is kept.

[0022] Moreover, when the absorption material needs to be removed or put into the transport battery transport box, handling of mats is particularly easy and uncomplicated, particularly as compared to loose absorption material.

[0023] The openings may be configured so as to provide a fluid communication between the gap and the storage space.

[0024] According to the present disclosure, the outer wall may be free of openings connecting the gap and / or the storage space to the outside of the battery transport box. Particularly, according to the present disclosure, the battery transport box may be configured such that, in a closed state thereof, there is no fluid connection between the gap and / or the storage space and the outside of the battery transport box. Thus, it can be ensured that no leakage to the outside of the battery transport box occurs.

[0025] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the one or more mats of absorption material may be made of a fabric like fleece or of a pressed material.

[0026] This type of mat of absorption material is reliable, has good absorption qualities and can nonetheless be easily handled. Moreover, this type of mat of absorption material holds together well and has a low risk of parts thereof exiting the gap towards the storage space.

[0027] According to the present disclosure, the one or more mats may comprise glass wool, for example.

[0028] According to the present disclosure, the one or more mats may be made from a mineralbased material, such as vermiculite-based material. For example, the one or more mats may be made of a mineral-based fabric, and particularly may be asbestos-free.

[0029] The material may be liquid-resistant, or, in other words, be configured to maintain its structural integrity when wet.

[0030] The material may be a temperature-resistant material. The material may, for example, endure a fire for at least a predetermined time-period, such as 30 minutes.

[0031] The gap may be configured such that the one or more mats are supported by the inner wall and the outer wall. The gap may, as an example, be configured such that the inner wall and outer wall provide support for the one or more mats from both sides. The gap may, as an example, be configured such that the inner wall and outer wall hold the one or more mats in such a manner as to reduce or fully prevent inadvertent movement and deformation of the mat. In particular, the gap may be configured such that the one or more mats may be wedged by the inner wall and the outer wall.

[0032] The one or more mats may be dimensioned and arranged such that in a width direction and a length direction the gap on each side of the battery transport box is filled out by the mats. Thus, leaking fluid will be reliably absorbed and inadvertent lateral movement of the one or more mats can be reduced or avoided.

[0033] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the one or more mats of absorption material may be made of a non-flammable material. The non-flammable material may comprise glass wool, for example. The non-flammable material, alternatively or in addition, may comprise mineral-based material, such as vermiculite-based material.

[0034] As an example, a non-flammable material may be selected from materials being classified as non-flammable based on an industrial standard, such as DI N 4102-1, e.g. a material classified Al or A2 according to said standard.

[0035] I n general, there is always a risk of battery modules overheating and catching fire. The risk is particularly high for discarded battery modules that may be damaged to some degree. When transporting battery modules, it is difficult to monitor the battery modules, take action in case of overheating, and to control fires. Accordingly, particularly during transport, the passive safety provided by using mats made of a non-flammable material is particularly advantageous and important.

[0036] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the battery transport box may comprise one or more shelves, each shelf comprising a first wall and a second wall, the first wall and second wall being spaced apart, and one or more mats of absorption material arranged between the first wall and the second wall. I n this aspect, at least one of the first wall and the second wall may comprise openings connecting the storage space and a space between the first wall and the second wall where the one or more mats are arranged.

[0037] The openings may be configured so as to provide a fluid communication between the gap and the storage space. The openings may be configured like the openings in the inner wall, for example.

[0038] The shelves may be configured for supporting battery modules during transport. Providing shelves that, themselves, also allow for absorbing leakage is advantageous as a leaking fluid will be absorbed more or less in place, rather than potentially spreading inside the storage space before being absorbed by the absorption material in the double-walled housing. The shelves may also be considered as intermediate floors or intermediate shelves. That is, they may be configured to separate layers of battery modules, each layer of battery modules having their own, possibly absorbing, intermediate floor / shelf.

[0039] Other options for separating battery module layers, would be introducing loose separators, such as cardboard separators between the battery modules. However, such loose separators could, when carrying out automatic handling, make the handling more difficult or inefficient if trying to remove them individually (as such separators are difficult to grip inside the battery transport box from between the battery modules), or, when emptying the battery transport box collectively, might fall into subsequent processes, which can cause problems for these subsequent processes. Moreover, they do not provide the same kind of fixing of the battery modules during transport as shelves can offer.

[0040] I n an aspect of the present disclosure, in a packed state, the battery transport boxes may, besides the battery modules, not comprise any loose material, particularly no loose separators, particularly no loose cardboard or absorber material.

[0041] Accordingly, the shelves of the present disclosure allow for improved transport and automated handling.

[0042] Shelves may be foldaway shelves, as will be seen below, which is particularly advantageous for easy handling. However, even fixed shelves are advantageous for automatic handling, as they have a more defined shape and position than loose separation layers.

[0043] The first wall and the second wall may, in the orientation of the battery transport box when arranged for its intended use, form the top side and the bottom side of the shelve respectively. The wall forming the top side may be referred to as top wall and the wall forming the bottom side may be referred to as the bottom wall.

[0044] I n the intended use of the battery transport box, one or more battery modules will rest on top of the shelve, supported by the top wall.

[0045] The openings may be arranged at least, in particular only, in the top wall or, in other words, in a wall of the shelve that faces upwards in the orientation of the battery transport box when arranged for its intended use. Leakage from battery modules resting on the shelve will, thus, immediately reach the absorption material inside the shelve. The bottom wall or, in other words, a wall of the shelve that faces downwards in the orientation of the battery transport box when arranged for its intended use, may not have any openings in order to avoid that fluid leaks through the shelve.

[0046] It is to be understood that the features and characteristics of the mats of absorption material described in the present disclosure in the context of the double-walled housing similarly apply to the mats of absorption material of the shelve(s). It is noted that shelves without a double-wall structure and without absorption material may alternatively or in addition be provided.

[0047] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the shelves may be foldaway shelves, wherein the shelves may be configured to fold away towards the inner wall. In particular, the shelves may be configured to fold away towards a sidewall.

[0048] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the shelves may be configured to fold away towards a top opening of the battery transport box.

[0049] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the battery transport box may comprise a lid and the shelves may be foldaway shelves, wherein the shelves may be configured to fold away towards the lid. The lid may be configured to, in its closed state, cover the top opening of the battery transport box.

[0050] This allows for easier access for stacking battery modules inside the battery transport box and easier unloading of the battery modules from the battery transport box.

[0051] I n particular, the unloading aspect is important. Ideally, unloading of battery modules would be done automatically, but battery modules are difficult to handle for robots. Such handling is at best inefficient and may even be impossible in some cases. Foldaway shelves allow for emptying the box completely by tipping it over, which can easily be done automatically.

[0052] The contents of the box, e.g. battery modules can, thus, freely emptied from the battery container while also having the advantages of shelves (particularly absorbent shelves) as outlined further above.

[0053] For example, the foldaway shelves also allow for having the advantage of shelves and yet do not require multiple steps, e.g. for sequentially emptying the different layers and removing the shelves between them from top to bottom-

[0054] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the shelves are configured to fold away such that they are aligned with, in particular flush with, the respective inner wall, in particular the sidewall, to which they are attached.

[0055] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the shelves are configured to fold away by 40° to 90° , particularly 60° to 90° , in particular 80° to 90° .

[0056] The shelves may, for example, be attached to the inner wall using hinges that allow for the shelves to pivot towards the lid, particularly to pivot until the shelves are essentially aligned with, in particular flush with, the inner wall to which they are attached, thereby being folded away.

[0057] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the shelves are configured to fold away towards the inner wall, particularly the sidewall(s), of the battery transport box, so as to form, particularly with their lower sides, an outer limitation of a central passage extending from the floor of the battery transport box to the top opening of the transport box.

[0058] It will be understood from the above that the foldaway shelves allow for automatically emptying the entire battery transport box in an efficient manner, as the folded-away shelves as described above do not obstruct the passage of the contents of the battery transport box in such a way as to prevent their falling out of the battery transport box when it is tipped over.

[0059] The foldaway shelves may, in other words, be configured a provide a passageway through which all contents of the battery transport box can fall out.

[0060] The foldaway shelves may, in other words, be configured so as to prevent trapping of content, particularly battery modules, between shelves and / or between the shelves and the inner wall upon the shelves folding away.

[0061] I n view of the above, it will also be apparent that it is not necessary to unload the shelves individually, but the entire battery transport box can be emptied in one step, i.e., by tipping over the battery transport box.

[0062] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the foldaway shelves may have a flap configuration hinging around the edge of the respective shelve that is adjacent to the inner wall of the battery transport box. The shelves may, particularly in this aspect, be fixed by fixing means that are re-positionable for height adjustment of the shelves. The fixing means may comprise hinges, for example.

[0063] The fixing means described herein may be part of or correspond to the attachment mechanism described below. For example, the fixing means may interact with a portion of a shelve, the fixing means and the portion together providing an attachment mechanism.

[0064] According to the present disclosure, the battery transport box may comprise a locking mechanism having an engaged state and a disengaged state, wherein, in an engaged state, the locking mechanism prevents the folding away or pivoting of the one or more shelves. The locking mechanism may comprise one or more locking elements, such as a bolt and / or a latch and / or a clamp. I n particular, the locking mechanism is configured to allow for collectively disengaging all locking elements. The locking mechanism may also be configured as or comprise part of the hinge, e.g., the hinge having a snap or latching mechanism.

[0065] This allows for quick emptying of the battery transport box.

[0066] As explained above, the battery transport box may comprise a lid. According to an aspect of present disclosure, the lid may be configured such that, in a closed state of the battery transport box, the shelves are mechanically locked so as to prevent the shelves from folding away, and, in an open state of the battery transport box, the shelves are unlocked so as to allow for the shelves to be folded away. As an example, the lid may be configured to mechanically hold down the shelves (in which case a locking mechanism may not be required) and / or may cause engaging a locking mechanism upon closing and / or keeping the locking mechanism engaged in a closed state, e.g., one of the locking mechanisms described above.

[0067] As another example, the lid may be configured to hold down battery modules in a closed state. In particular, at least the side of the lid facing the battery modules may have abrasion-resistant properties. This side may be made of silicon-based material, for example.

[0068] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the shelves may be configured to fold away under the influence of gravity and / or weight of the battery modules when a top opening and / or lid-side of the battery transport box faces downwards.

[0069] For example, the transport box may be configured such that, when the battery transport box is tipped over, e.g. along the longitudinal edge, the intermediate shelves open by being folded away and release the contents for emptying the battery transport box. For example, the contents may be emptied into a black mass production plant. Due to the configuration of the transport box, the one or more mats remain inside the gap of the double wall and, if applicable, in the shelves, and do not fall into the plant when tipping over the battery transport box.

[0070] According to the present disclosure, the one or more shelves may be fixed lengthwise and may be configured like a flap with one holder on the left and one on the right side. The fixing means may have a grid-like configuration, such that that different heights can be set. This allows battery modules of different sizes to be stored and transported.

[0071] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the shelve spacing may be adjustable.

[0072] Particularly, the battery transport box may be configured to allow for height adjustment of the shelves.

[0073] As an example, some or all of the one or more shelves may be re-positionable within the battery transport box. For example, to that end, fixing means that are re-positionable may be provided.

[0074] An example for providing adjustable shelve spacing, thus, is to use fixing means for the one or more shelves, the fixing means being movable between different positions.

[0075] Alternatively or in addition, multiple fixing means associated with different shelve positions, particularly heights, may be provided, for example in a grid pattern.

[0076] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the shelve spacing may be tool lessly adjustable. According to the present disclosure, the shelves may be, particularly tool lessly, attachable to and detachable from the fixing means with which the shelves are attached to the inner wall. Alternatively or in addition, the fixing means with which the shelves are attached to the inner wall may be, particularly toollessly, attachable to and detachable from the inner wall and / or may be configured to be, particularly toollessly, locked and unlocked at different positions, for example by means of thumbscrews or by a clicking mechanism or the like.

[0077] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the shelves may be attachable to the inner wall by means of a toolless attachment mechanism, particularly attachable by a click mechanism. Particularly, the shelves may be toollessly attached to the fixing means with which they are attached to the inner wall.

[0078] For example, a hinge-mechanism may be provided as an attachment mechanism. The fixing means may comprise hinges for foldaway shelves. The hinges may, at the same time, serve as a click connection between the shelve and the fixing means.

[0079] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the shelve spacing may be toollessly adjustable by detaching at least one of the shelves and re-attaching at least one of the shelves at a different position. Mechanisms allowing for this have been outlined above.

[0080] As will be understood from the above, the battery transport box may be used in a very flexible manner, as adjusting the shelving to the cargo is made possible and in an easy, possibly even toolless manner, such that it can be done quickly and without being reliant on availability of special tools. Properly adjusted shelving may improve loading of the cargo and also ensure that the cargo is safely stowed during transport.

[0081] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the battery transport box may be configured as a processing container configured to allow for feeding the battery modules into a battery module processing plant.

[0082] Thus, the battery transport box can also be used to fill a system and is therefore a process container. This avoids repackaging and transfilling of the battery modules from a transport box to a container suitable for feeding battery modules to the battery processing plant.

[0083] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the battery transport box may comprise a / the lid and the battery transport box may be configured such that the lid fixes the battery modules in place and / or compresses the battery modules, particularly such that additiona fixing means in the storage space are not required to fix the battery modules in place.

[0084] Thus, the battery modules are safely stowed for transport without requiring much effort or complex means for holding the battery modules while still allowing flexibility in filling the battery transport box. According to an aspect of present disclosure, the battery transport box may have an outer shape having a recess and a protrusion and configured such that, when two or more of the battery transport boxes comprising a first battery transport box and a second battery transport box are stacked, the recess of the first battery transport box and the protrusion of the second battery transport box engage so as to limit or prevent relative lateral displacement between the first battery transport box and the second battery transport box.

[0085] Thus, the battery transport boxes are particularly suitable for transporting several of them together, for example in a vehicle, in a stacked arrangement while keeping an effort for holding them in place low. For example, a box cannot easily slip from a box on top of which it is stacked.

[0086] The battery transport box may be configured to have a material and construction that allows for stacking multiple, particularly three or more of the battery transport boxes when filled with battery modules without endangering structural integrity.

[0087] A height of a battery transport box according to the present disclosure may be between 50 cm and 100 cm, particularly between 60 cm and 90 cm, particularly between 70 cm and 80 cm.

[0088] According to an aspect of present disclosure, the battery transport box may have an outer shape having one or more accommodation structures configured so as to accommodate forklift arms.

[0089] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the inner wall and the outer wall may be made from plastic or metal, particularly aluminum.

[0090] This allows for particularly advantageous handling of the battery transport box, particularly when transferring the battery transport box from a vehicle to where the battery modules are fed to the battery processing plant.

[0091] The use of the battery transport box for storing and / or transporting one or more battery modules may comprise putting battery modules into the battery transport box, particularly on the one or more shelves as described above.

[0092] The use may optionally comprise adjusting positions of the one or more shelves so as to adjust the shelve spacing.

[0093] The use may optionally comprise stacking multiple of the battery transport boxes and, in doing so, engaging the above-described protrusion and recess of the battery transport boxes.

[0094] The use may comprise tipping over the battery transport box, particularly along the longitudinal edge, the foldaway shelves folding away and releasing the contents of the battery transport box, particularly the battery modules. The use may comprise using a battery box according to the present disclosure having foldaway shelves for automatic unloading, particularly emptying, of the battery box by tipping over the battery box, in particular such that a top or lid-side of the battery transport box faces downwards, whereby the foldaway shelves fold away under the influence of gravity and / or weight of the battery modules. Thus, the contents of the battery transport box, e.g. the battery modules, are released. This can be done with a forklift.

[0095] It is to be understood that these steps, for unloading / emptying the battery transport box, are carried out with the lid being released, in particular removed, and / or, where applicable, actuating a release mechanism releasing the shelves to allow for them to fold away. These steps may not be necessary when there is no mechanism preventing the shelves from folding away towards the lid-side of the box.

[0096] The use may comprise that the contents, particularly the battery modules, are emptied into a battery processing plant, particularly a black mass production plant.

[0097] I n other words, the use may optionally comprise emptying the battery transport boxes, particularly feeding battery modules from the battery transport box to a battery processing plant, particularly by tipping over the battery transport box. This may be done after removing the lid. The battery transport box may comprise foldaway shelves and the foldaway shelves may, when the battery transport box is tipped over and under the influence of gravity, fold away, thereby releasing the battery modules, e.g., as described above.

[0098] The use may optionally comprise handling the battery transport boxes with a forklift by engaging the forklift arms with the above-described accommodation structures configured so as to accommodate forklift arms.

[0099] Any disclosure, embodiments, features, technical effects, and advantages described in the present disclosure in the context of the battery transport box also apply to the use of the battery transport box and vice versa. The benefits provided by any of the embodiments and examples equally apply to all other embodiments and examples and vice versa.

[0100] TERMINOLOGY

[0101] I n the following, terminology as used herein and / or the technical field of the present disclosure will be outlined by ways of definitions and / or examples. Where examples are given, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to said examples.

[0102] I n the present disclosure, the term “battery module" is to be understood broadly and may, for example, be an assembly or pack of battery cells. The battery cells of a battery module may be fixed relative to each other, particularly arranged in a cover or encasement The battery module may comprise a plurality of electrically contacted battery cells. The battery module may comprise only battery cells of the same type or may comprise battery cells of at least two different types. The types of battery cells include cylindrical battery cells, prismatic battery cells, and / or pouch battery cells. The battery module may, only as a nonlimiting example, refer to a lithium-ion battery module.

[0103] I n the present disclosure, the term battery processing plant is to be understood broadly, and may refer to a processing plant for processing used battery modules, in particular, a battery recycling plant. A battery processing plant may refer to, for example, a plant for processing battery modules so as to obtain black mass material therefrom. Alternatively or in addition, a battery processing plant may refer to, for example, a plant for disassembly and / or dismantling of battery modules, for example by means of robotic tools. As an example, instead of being used for a black mass production, used battery modules may be dismantled and / or disassembled for subsequent pyrolysis or carbonylation.

[0104] Black mass, according to the present disclosure, may refer to, for example, shredded battery material or material obtained from further processing such shredded battery material.

[0105] BRI EF DESCRI PTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0106] I n the following, the present disclosure is further described with reference to the enclosed figures:

[0107] Fig. la is a schematic, not-to-scale illustration of a first exemplary battery transport box according to the present disclosure in an oblique view.

[0108] Fig. lb is a schematic, not-to-scale illustration of the first exemplary battery transport box according to the present disclosure in a top view.

[0109] Fig. lc is a schematic, not-to-scale illustration of an alternative shelve-arrangement in the first exemplary battery transport box according to the present disclosure in a crosssection view.

[0110] Fig. Id is a schematic, not-to-scale illustration of the first exemplary battery transport box according to the present disclosure in a cross-section view.

[0111] Fig. 2a is a schematic, not-to-scale illustration of a second exemplary battery transport box according to the present disclosure in an oblique view.

[0112] Fig. 2b is a schematic, not-to-scale illustration of the second exemplary battery transport box according to the present disclosure in a top view.

[0113] Fig. 2c is a schematic, not-to-scale illustration of the second exemplary battery transport box according to the present disclosure in a cross-section view.

[0114] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0115] The following embodiments are mere examples for implementing the method, the system or application device disclosed herein and shall not be considered limiting.

[0116] Figs, la to Id illustrate a first example of a battery transport box 1 according to the present disclosure. The battery transport box may, for example, be made from plastic or metal, like aluminum. The battery transport box has a storage space 2 for holding one or more battery modules. The storage space is enclosed by a double-walled housing 3, the double-walled housing comprising an outer wall 4 and an inner wall 5 with a gap 6 formed therebetween.

[0117] The inner wall 5 has a plurality of openings 5a connecting the gap and the storage space.

[0118] I n the present example, the inner wall 5 is configured as a mesh or grating. However, other configurations are conceivable, e.g. as shown in the context of Figs. 2a to 2c.

[0119] One or more mats 7 of absorption material are arranged in the gap.

[0120] The openings provide a fluid connection between the gap and the storage space, such that liquid, e.g. leaking electrolyte, leaking from the battery can easily reach the absorption material. Thus, reliable absorption is ensured.

[0121] The battery transport box is shown as comprising optional shelves 8, each shelf comprising a first wall 9, which is referred to as top wall in the present example, as it forms the upper side of the shelve, and a second wall 10, which is referred to as bottom wall in the present example, as here it forms the lower side of the shelve. The first wall and second wall are spaced apart. One or more mats 11 of absorption material are arranged between the first wall and the second wall. In the present case, only the first (upper) wall comprises openings connecting the storage space and a space 12 between the first wall and the second wall where the one or more mats 11 are arranged. Alternatively, the second wall may also comprise openings connecting the storage space and the space between the first wall and the second wall. However, this configuration is optional and may be omitted or modified.

[0122] I n particular, the shelves may not comprise absorption material. The shelves then may also not comprise two walls having a space therebetween. The shelves may then be configured as plates with or without openings or as gratings, for example.

[0123] The shelves shown in Figs, la to Id are foldaway shelves, wherein the shelves are configured to fold away towards the lid. To that end, they hinge around their respective edge where they are attached to the inner wall. However, this configuration is optional and may be omitted or modified.

[0124] The battery transport box may provide an adjustable shelve spacing, for example by providing an attachment mechanism 14, here comprising fixing means 14a, that allows for fixing the shelves at different heights within the storage space. However, this configuration is optional and may be omitted or modified.

[0125] I n the example shown in Figs, la to Id, the attachment mechanism, particularly the fixing means, may comprise one or more pairs of elongate strips 14a-l arranged vertically on the inner wall, each strip having holes 14a-2. The strips of a pair of strips may be configured and arranged such that their holes are arranged opposite each other, particularly so as to allow horizontal suspension of a shelve. For example, the shelves may comprise pins configured to engage with the holes such that the shelve is pivotally suspended. At least one of the pins may be a spring pin. Spring pins allow for a quickly and easily engaging the pins with the holes and disengaging the pins from the holes. Accordingly, the shelves can quickly be set to a different height by disengaging the pins from a pair of holes arranged at a first height and engaging the pins with a pair of holes arranged at a different height.

[0126] It is noted that the battery transport box according to the present disclosure, particularly as described above, may be configured such that it can be used as a process container as well, for example for feeding a battery processing plant, such as a black mass processing plant. However, this configuration is optional and may be omitted or modified.

[0127] I n Fig. Id, merely for the sake of illustration, a battery module 18 is shown on top of a shelve. The battery module is not part of the battery transport box, however.

[0128] I n Figure la and lb, a configuration having two pairs of strips is shown. Moreover, two respective shelves that are individually attached, each via a different one of the two pairs of strips, are shown in said Figures. In this example, the two shelves are configured to fit next to each other across the width of the storage space. In particular, the two shelves may optionally be arranged next to each other across the width of the storage space. They may be arranged on the same height or at different heights in the storage space.

[0129] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 1c, only one pair of strips may be provided, such that shelves can only be arranged and attached in a stacked order. As an example, at a given height in the storage space, one shelf may extend essentially over the entire width of the storage space.

[0130] For the sake of completeness, it is noted that the transport box does not require fixing means for fixing the respective free end of the shelves, particularly no fixing means for supporting the respective free end from below. As an example, when the box is filled with battery modules, the battery modules may support shelves arranged directly above them. However, optionally fixing means may be provided.

[0131] An exemplary size of a battery transport box according to the present disclosure would be outer dimensions of 1.2 m x 0.8 m x 0.8 m + / - 0.1 m. These dimensions refer to a height when a lid is assembled on the box. When in intended use, 1.2 m may represent the length of the box, and 0.8 m the width and height. The base dimensions may, for example, be selected to correspond to dimensions of standardized and / or typically commercially used pallets, which improves compatibility of the box, for example in terms of transport and storage facilities. The height may depend on the lid dimensions. However, this example is considered to be non-limiting and other dimension are conceivable.

[0132] Figs. 2a to 2c illustrate a second example of a battery transport box 1 according to the present disclosure. In many features, the battery transport box may correspond to the first example illustrated in Figs, la to Id. These features will not expressly be repeated, and reference is instead made to Figs, la to Id and the corresponding description. Differences compared to the first example will be outlined below.

[0133] Similar to the first example, the inner wall 5 has a plurality of openings 5a connecting the gap and the storage space. This example differs from the first one in that the inner wall is not in the form of a mesh or grating, but rather a plate with an array of openings.

[0134] The battery transport box is shown as comprising an optional lid 13. I n Figure 2a the lid is shown next to the battery transport box, i.e., the box is in an opened state. I n Fig. 2b. the lid is not shown. The lid may have a different configuration than the one shown here.

[0135] It is to be understood that such a lid 13 or a different lid may also be provided with the battery transport box shown in and described in the context of Figs, la to Id.

[0136] I n the second example, different from the first example, the optional attachment mechanism 14 for shelves, particularly the fixing means, comprises height-adjustable hinges 14a that are employed for the fold-away configuration of shelves. The hinges can be fixed at different positions of the inner wall so as to allow for adjusting shelve spacing. However, this configuration is optional and may be omitted or modified.

[0137] As particularly clearly visible in Fig. 2c, the outer shape of the battery transport box may have protrusions 15 and recesses 16. Here, the protrusions are shown as part of the lid and the recesses at the bottom of the battery transport box. However, this specific configuration is optional and may be omitted or modified.

[0138] The protrusions and recesses are configured such that, when two boxes like the one shown in Figs. 2a to 2c are stacked, the protrusions and recesses engage with each other. Thus, slipping of the boxes, e.g. by a relative lateral motion or displacement, can be effectively prevented. However, this configuration is optional and may be omitted or modified.

[0139] It is to be understood that such protrusions and recesses may also be provided with the battery transport box shown in and described in the context of Figs, la to Id.

[0140] Also shown in Figs. 2a and 2c are accommodation structures 17 configured so as to accommodate forklift arms. For example, a floor construction having holes through which the forklift arms can be received is shown in However, this configuration is optional and may be omitted or modified.

[0141] It is to be understood that such accommodation structures may also be provided with the battery transport box shown in and described in the context of Figs, la to Id.

[0142] It is noted that the battery transport box according to the present disclosure, particularly as described above, may be configured such that it can be used as a process container as well, for example for feeding a battery processing plant, such as a black mass processing plant. However, this configuration is optional and may be omitted or modified. I n Fig. 2c, merely for the sake of illustration, a battery module 18 is shown on top of a shelve. The battery module is not part of the battery transport box, however.

[0143] An exemplary size of a battery transport box according to the present disclosure would be outer dimensions of 1.2 m x 0.8 m x 0.8 m + / - 0.1 m. These dimensions refer to a height when the lid is assembled on the box. When in intended use, 1.2 m may represent the length of the box, and 0.8 m the width and height. The base dimensions may, for example, be selected to correspond to dimensions of standardized and / or typically commercially used pallets, which improves compatibility of the box, for example in terms of transport and storage facilities. The height may depend on the lid dimensions. However, this example is considered to be non-limiting and other dimension are conceivable.

[0144] Embodiments - embodiments of the present disclosure are presented below.

[0145] Embodiment 1. A battery transport box (1) having a storage space (2) for holding one or more battery modules (18), wherein the storage space (2) is enclosed by a double-walled housing (3), the doublewalled housing (3) comprising an outer wall (4) and an inner wall (5) with a gap (6) formed therebetween, wherein the inner wall (5) has a plurality of openings (5a) connecting the gap (6) and the storage space (2), and wherein the battery transport box (1) comprises one or more mats (7) of absorption material arranged in the gap (6).

[0146] Embodiment 2. The battery transport box (1) according to embodiment 1, wherein the one or more mats (7) of absorption material are made of a fabric like fleece or of a pressed material.

[0147] Embodiment 3. The battery transport box (1) according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the gap is configured such that the one or more mats (7) are supported by the inner wall (5) and outer wall (4).

[0148] Embodiment 4. The battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the one or more mats (7) of absorption material are be made of a non-flammable material.

[0149] Embodiment 5. The battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the battery transport box (1) comprises one or more shelves (8), each shelf comprising a first wall (9) and a second wall (10), the first wall (9) and second wall (10) being spaced apart, and one or more mats (11) of absorption material arranged between the first wall (9) and the second wall (10), wherein at least one of the first wall (9) and the second wall (10) comprises openings (9a) connecting the storage space (2) and a space (12) between the first wall (9) and the second wall (10) where the one or more mats (11) are arranged.

[0150] Embodiment 6. The battery transport box (1) according to embodiment 5, wherein the battery transport box (1) comprises a lid (13) and the one or more shelves (8) are foldaway shelves, wherein the one or more shelves (8) are configured to fold away towards the lid (13), in particular, having a flap configuration hinging around the edge of the respective shelve (8) that is adjacent to the inner wall (5) of the battery transport box (1) and being fixed by fixing means (14a) that are re-positionable for height adjustment of the one or more shelves (8).

[0151] Embodiment 7. The battery transport box (1) according to embodiment 6, wherein the lid (13) is configured such that, in a closed state of the battery transport box (1), the one or more shelves (8) are mechanically locked so as to prevent the one or more shelves (8) from folding away, and, in an open state of the battery transport box (1), the one or more shelves (8) are unlocked so as to allow for the one or more shelves (8) to be folded away.

[0152] Embodiment 8. The battery transport box (1) according to any of embodiments 5 to 7, wherein the one or more shelves (8) are configured to fold away under the influence of gravity and / or weight of the battery modules when a lid-side of the battery transport box (1) faces downwards.

[0153] Embodiment 9. The battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the shelve spacing is adjustable.

[0154] Embodiment 10. The battery transport box (1) according to embodiment 9, wherein the one or more shelve spacing is tool lessly adjustable.

[0155] Embodiment 11. The battery transport box (1) according to embodiment 10, wherein the one or more shelves (8) are attachable to the inner wall (5) by means of a toolless attachment mechanism (14), particularly attachable by a click mechanism.

[0156] Embodiment 12. The battery transport box (1) according to any of embodiments 9 to 11, wherein the shelve spacing is tool lessly adjustable by detaching at least one of the one or more shelves (8) and re-attaching the at least one of the one or more shelves (8) at a different position.

[0157] Embodiment 13. The battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the battery transport box (1) is configured as a processing container configured to allow for feeding the battery modules into a battery module processing plant.

[0158] Embodiment 14. The battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the battery transport box (1) comprises a / the lid (13) and the battery transport box (1) is configured such that the lid fixes (13) the battery modules in place and / or compresses the battery modules, particularly such that additional fixing means (14a) in the storage space (2) are not required to fix the battery modules in place, and / or wherein the battery transport box (1) has an outer shape having a recess (15) and a protrusion (15) and configured such that, when two or more of the battery transport boxes (1) comprising a first battery transport box and a second battery transport box are stacked, the recess (16) of the first battery transport box and the protrusion (15) of the second battery transport box engage so as to limit or prevent relative lateral displacement between the first battery transport box and the second battery transport box, and / or wherein the battery transport box (1) has an outer shape having one or more accommodation structures (17) configured so as to accommodate forklift arms.

[0159] Embodiment 15. Use of the battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding embodiments for storing and / or transporting one or more battery modules.

[0160] The present disclosure has been described in conjunction with preferred embodiments and examples as well. However, other variations can be understood and effected by those persons skilled in the art and practicing the claimed invention, from the studies of the drawings, this disclosure and the claims. Notably, in particular, the any steps presented can be performed in any order, i.e. the present invention is not limited to a specific order of these steps.

Claims

Claims1. A battery transport box (1) having a storage space (2) for holding one or more battery modules (18), wherein the storage space (2) is enclosed by a double-walled housing (3), the doublewalled housing (3) comprising an outer wall (4) and an inner wall (5) with a gap (6) formed therebetween, wherein the inner wall (5) has a plurality of openings (5a) connecting the gap (5) and the storage space (2), and wherein the battery transport box (1) comprises one or more mats (7) of absorption material arranged in the gap (6).

2. The battery transport box (1) according to claim 1, wherein the battery transport box (1) comprises a plurality of shelves, in particular comprising one or more foldaway shelves configured to fold away, particularly towards the inner wall, particularly towards a sidewal l, and / or towards a top opening of the battery transport box (1).

3. The battery transport box (1) according to claim 2, wherein the foldaway shelves have a flap configuration hinging around the edge of the respective shelve (8) that is adjacent to the inner wall (5) of the battery transport box (1), particularly the sidewall of the battery transport box (1), and / or are fixed by fixing means (14a) that are re-positionable for height adjustment of the one or more shelves (8).

4. The battery transport box (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the battery transport box (1) comprises a lid (13) and the one or more shelves (8) are configured to fold away towards the lid (13).

5. The battery transport box (1) according to claim 4, wherein the lid (13) is configured such that, in a closed state of the battery transport box (1), the one or more shelves (8) are mechanically locked so as to prevent the one or more shelves (8) from folding away, and, in an open state of the battery transport box (1), the one or more shelves (8) are unlocked so as to allow for the one or more shelves (8) to be folded away.

5. The battery transport box (1) according to any of claims 2 to 5, wherein the one or more shelves (8) are configured to fold away under the influence of gravity and / or weight of the battery modules when a lid-side of the battery transport box (1) faces downwards, in particular when a top opening of the battery transport box (1) faces downwards.

7. The battery transport box (1) according to any of claims 2 to 6, wherein the shelves are configured to fold away such that they are aligned with, in particular flush with, the respective inner wall, in particular the sidewall, to which they are attached.

8. The battery transport box (1) according to any of claims 2 to 7, wherein the shelves are configured to fold away by 40° to 90° , particularly 60° to 90° , in particular 80° to 90° .

9. The battery transport box (1) according to any of claims 2 to 8, wherein the shelves are configured to fold away towards the inner wall, particularly the side wall(s), of the battery transport box, in particular so as to form an outer limitation of a central passage extending from the floor of the battery transport box to the top opening of the transport box.

10. The battery transport box (1) according to any of claims 2 to 9, wherein the shelve spacing is adjustable, in particular tool lessly adjustable.

11. The battery transport box (1) according to any of claims 2 to 10, wherein the one or more shelves (8) are attachable to the inner wall (5) by means of a toolless attachment mechanism (14), particularly attachable by a click mechanism.

12. The battery transport box (1) according to any of claims 10 to 11, wherein the shelve spacing is toollessly adjustable by detaching at least one of the one or more shelves (8) and re-attaching the at least one of the one or more shelves (8) at a different position.

13. The battery transport box (1) according to any of claims 2 to 12, wherein each shelf comprises a first wall (9) and a second wall (10), the first wall (9) and second wall (10) being spaced apart, and one or more mats (11) of absorption material arranged between the first wall (9) and the second wall (10), wherein at least one of the first wall (9) and the second wall (10) comprises openings (9a) connecting the storage space (2) and a space (12) between the first wall (9) and the second wall (10) where the one or more mats (11) are arranged.

14. The battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the battery transport box (1) is configured as a processing container configured to allow for feeding the battery modules into a battery module processing plant.

15. The battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the battery transport box (1) comprises a / the lid (13) and the battery transport box (1) is configured such that the lid fixes (13) the battery modules in place and / or compresses the battery modules, particularly such that additional fixing means (14a) in the storage space (2) are not required to fix the battery modules in place, and / or wherein the battery transport box (1) has an outer shape having a recess (16) and a protrusion (15) and configured such that, when two or more of the battery transport boxes (1) comprising a first battery transport box and a second battery transport box are stacked, the recess (16) of the first battery transport box and the protrusion (15) of the secondbattery transport box engage so as to limit or prevent relative lateral displacement between the first battery transport box and the second battery transport box, and / or wherein the battery transport box (1) has an outer shape having one or more accommodation structures (17) configured so as to accommodate forklift arms.

16. The battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more mats (7) of absorption material are made of a fabric like fleece or of a pressed material.

17. The battery transport box (1) according to claim any of the preceding claims, wherein the gap is configured such that the one or more mats (7) are supported by the inner wall (5) and outer wall (4).

18. The battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more mats (7) of absorption material are be made of a non-flammable material.

19. Use of the battery transport box (1) according to any of the preceding claims for storing and / or transporting one or more battery modules.

20. Use according to claim 19 of the battery transport box (1) according to any of claims 2 to 18, comprising tipping over the battery transport box (1), particularly along the longitudinal edge, the foldaway shelves folding away and releasing the contents, particularly the battery modules.

21. Use according to claim 19 or 20 of the battery transport box (1) according to any of claims 2 to 18, comprising use for automatic unloading, particularly emptying, of the battery transport box by tipping over the battery transport box, in particular such that a top or lidside of the battery transport box (1) faces downwards, whereby the foldaway shelves fold away under the influence of gravity and / or weight of the battery modules.

22. Use according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the contents of the battery transport box, particularly the battery modules, are emptied into a battery processing plant, particularly a black mass production plant.

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