Battery assembly, battery cell arrangement, vehicle and method

Abstract

A battery assembly for a traction battery of an electrically powered vehicle has at least one battery cell and a sleeve. The sleeve surrounds the battery cell in the circumferential direction in a substantially closed manner on at least one cross section of the battery cell. The sleeve has inwardly facing projections with which the sleeve can bear against the battery cell in order to keep remaining regions of the sleeve at a defined distance from the battery cell in order to define a flow channel for a fluid.

Description

[0001] EM 23-3520

[0002] BATTERY ASSEMBLY, BATTERY CELL ARRANGEMENT, VEHICLE AND

[0003] PROCEDURE

[0004] The present invention relates to a battery assembly and a battery cell arrangement. The invention also extends to a vehicle with such a battery assembly or such a battery cell arrangement, as well as to a method for manufacturing such a battery assembly or such a battery cell arrangement.

[0005] Battery cells, as electrochemical storage devices for electrical energy, have been known for a long time. Many different types of battery cells are known from current technology, varying particularly in their size, shape, output voltage, capacity, and materials used. There are also significant differences in their suitability for specific applications.

[0006] The present invention relates to battery cells comprising an electrode arrangement (positive and negative electrodes) in a substantially enclosed housing. Such battery cells can, for example, have a wound electrode arrangement. Such an electrode arrangement can be in the form of a strip with a positive electrode foil, a negative electrode foil, and a separator between them. The strip is often wound or folded in a spiral shape. Examples include cylindrical battery cells (or round cells) or prismatic battery cells. Embodiments of the invention are primarily explained using the example of cylindrical battery cells. While this represents an important area of ​​application, the invention is not necessarily limited in this respect and can therefore also be applied to non-cylindrical batteries—for example, prismatic batteries.

[0007] As part of decarbonization efforts, many vehicles today are designed as hybrid or purely electric vehicles. Such vehicles are equipped with a traction battery. Typically, however, the traction battery is not a single battery cell, but comprises a relatively large number of individual battery cells connected in series and / or parallel. A battery cell according to the present invention can, in particular, be used as part EM 23-3520 of such a traction battery in a vehicle, i.e., especially connected in series with other, possibly identical, battery cells. However, the invention is not limited to this example with regard to its application.

[0008] Depending on the application and / or operating conditions, the battery cells must be temperature controlled (i.e., cooled or heated), especially to avoid damage to the battery cell or to optimize energy output from the battery.

[0009] Various techniques for cooling a battery cell are known from the prior art. One of these techniques is called immersion cooling, in which a cooling fluid flows in direct contact with the casing (also called the cladding) of a battery cell or at least a part of it.

[0010] German patent application DE 10 2020 124 745 A1 discloses a technology for cooling battery cells. The battery cells are located in a battery module housing that has an inlet and an outlet. A cooling fluid flows through the inlet into the battery module housing, flows around the battery cells to cool them, and flows out of the battery module housing through the outlet.

[0011] The inventors of the present invention have recognized that, in the aforementioned prior art, uneven flow and thus uneven cooling of the battery cells can occur, which in turn can have a negative impact on the health of the battery cell and / or the energy extraction from the battery cell.

[0012] It is one of the tasks of the present revelation to at least mitigate the problems discussed above.

[0013] A solution to this problem is achieved according to the teaching of the independent claims. Various embodiments and further developments of the solution are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0014] A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a battery assembly comprising: EM 23-3520 a battery cell and a sleeve, wherein the sleeve substantially encloses the battery cell in the circumferential direction at at least one cross-section of the battery cell, wherein the sleeve has inwardly projecting protrusions with which the sleeve can abut the battery cell in order to keep remaining areas of the sleeve at a defined distance from the battery cell in order to define a flow channel for a fluid.

[0015] The sleeve, or rather the flow channel defined by it (together with the battery cell housing), can help to ensure that the battery cell can be (at least largely) heated uniformly. The protrusions, in particular, can contribute to this, as their height can be adjusted with a very small tolerance if necessary.

[0016] The height of the projections can be considered to be the height of a projection relative to adjacent, non-projecting areas, in a direction (at a point in such an adjacent area) perpendicular to the circumferential surface of the sleeve.

[0017] The sleeve can have a substantially circular cross-section. In this form, the sleeve would be particularly suitable for use with a cylindrical battery cell. However, this is not mandatory. The sleeve can, for example, also have a substantially rectangular cross-section, possibly with rounded corners, and would then be suitable for use with a prismatic battery cell.

[0018] Since the inventors primarily intend the cooling of a battery cell as an application, the following discussion focuses mainly on cooling (rather than also on heating or, more broadly, temperature control) a battery cell. However, the solution disclosed here can also be used for heating a battery cell. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to cooling.

[0019] In the context of the solution described here, the "remaining areas" can be considered to be those areas where no protrusions are present.

[0020] The fluid can be a liquid, especially a coolant. However, the fluid can also be gaseous.

[0021] Since the sleeve has several projections, multiple (partial) flow channels can form between the sleeve with its projections and the battery cell. Depending on the design of the projections, these (partial) flow channels can extend separately from one axial end of the sleeve to the other axial end, or they can connect, at least over a partial axial section, as will become clear from the following description. For this reason, the term "flow channel" is used here both for a single (partial) flow channel and for the entirety of all (partial) flow channels present within a given sleeve.

[0022] The following describes various exemplary embodiments of the battery assembly, which, unless expressly excluded or technically impossible, can be combined with each other and with the aspects of the present disclosure described below.

[0023] The projections may: a) have ribs extending substantially continuously from a first axial end of the sleeve to a second axial end of the sleeve opposite the first axial end, or b) have ribs that are interrupted at least once between the first axial end of the sleeve and the second axial end of the sleeve, or EM 23-3520 c) have knobs.

[0024] Mixed forms are also possible, i.e., a sleeve can have several different types of protrusions, for example two or three of the aforementioned types of protrusions.

[0025] Continuous ribs can be particularly effective in keeping the remaining sections of the sleeve at the desired distance from the battery cell. This can also potentially promote a more laminar flow through the flow channel.

[0026] Interrupted ribs, knobs, or similar features can potentially minimize the area occupied by the protrusions or maximize the area of ​​the remaining sections, thus promoting particularly uniform cooling of the battery cell. This may also promote a non-laminar, turbulent flow through the flow channel.

[0027] The projections or a pattern resulting from the projections may: a) be oriented substantially parallel to a central axis of the sleeve extending from a first axial end of the sleeve to a second axial end of the sleeve opposite the first axial end, or b) be oriented substantially spirally around the central axis.

[0028] The term "central axis" is not necessarily to be understood in the strictly geometric sense of a straight line and, in particular, is not intended to suggest that the sleeve must have a circular cross-section (as already mentioned, the sleeve can also have, for example, a substantially rectangular cross-section). Instead, the term "central axis" refers to a line that runs approximately midway through the sleeve from one (open) end to the opposite (open) end.

[0029] The aforementioned remaining areas of the casing can at least: EM 23-3520

[0030] occupy 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% of the total circumferential area of ​​the sleeve.

[0031] The larger the proportion of the sleeve's total circumferential area occupied by the remaining sections, the greater the area of ​​the battery cell's outer surface that can be exposed to the coolant. This can contribute to more uniform cooling of the battery cell. Conversely, the more protrusions are distributed on the sleeve, the better the distance between the remaining sections of the sleeve and the battery cell can be maintained. However, this can reduce the area occupied by the remaining sections. Cooling of the battery cell, and in particular uniform cooling, can be improved by coordinating various parameters of the sleeve.In particular, the expert can determine, if necessary through testing, for example, the maximum permissible spacing of the protrusions to ensure that the distance between the sleeve and the battery cell remains within an acceptable range. If necessary, the height and / or shape of the protrusions can also be varied, and the uniformity of the cooling can be checked. The material of the sleeve, especially its stiffness, can also influence how many protrusions the sleeve should have and at what spacing they should be to achieve the best possible (or acceptable) (or uniform) cooling.Since the coordination of these parameters varies from application to application and depends in particular on the desired degree of cooling uniformity, no universally applicable rule can be given regarding the parameters to be used for the battery assembly that will yield optimal results for all applications. Instead, some examples are given below that provide good results for at least some applications. Based on the explanations provided, however, a qualified professional will have no difficulty determining appropriate parameter ranges for each specific application that will achieve a satisfactory or good result.

[0032] The projections may have a height perpendicular to the circumferential surface of the sleeve that is between 50% and 200% of the material thickness of the sleeve in the said remaining areas, in particular more than 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% EM 23-3520 and / or in particular less than 175%, 150%, 130%, 120% or 110% of the material thickness of the sleeve in the said remaining areas.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, the projections may have a height perpendicular to the circumferential surface of the sleeve, which is between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, in particular more than 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm or 0.45 mm and / or in particular less than 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, 1.5 mm, 1 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.6 mm or 0.55 mm.

[0034] Additionally or alternatively, the material thickness of the sleeve in the aforementioned remaining areas may be between 0.2mm and 5mm, in particular more than 0.3mm, 0.4mm or 0.45mm and / or in particular less than 4mm, 3mm, 2mm, 1.5mm, 1mm, 0.8mm, 0.6mm or 0.55mm.

[0035] Additionally or alternatively, the sleeve material may consist of a plastic material at the projections and / or in the aforementioned remaining areas.

[0036] Additionally or alternatively, the material of the sleeve may be flexible, in particular such that it can be brought from a flat state into a sleeve-shaped state without breaking, especially by hand by an average strong adult without aids.

[0037] In the example of a cylindrical sleeve, the "height" of a projection can be determined as follows. The distance of the point on the projection closest to the central axis of the cylinder is measured from this central axis. Similarly, the distance of the remaining area from this central axis is measured. The difference between these distances is considered the height of the projection. For a sleeve that is not cylindrical, the procedure can be followed accordingly, but the measurement would be taken along a straight line perpendicular to the sleeve's circumference at the location of the projection – this line does not necessarily have to pass through the sleeve's central axis.

[0038] If the sleeve material is initially manufactured in a flat state and only subsequently formed into a sleeve-shaped state (see also the following explanations), the sleeve material can be produced as a continuous length (EM 23-3520) and divided into corresponding sections. If the sleeve material is not manufactured with the protrusions from the outset, these can also be created while the sleeve material is still in its flat state.

[0039] The material thickness of the sleeve can be essentially the same at the projections and in the remaining areas. This can be achieved, for example, by first manufacturing the sleeve material as a flat strip (without projections) and then creating the projections by deforming this strip (possibly with the application of heat). Corresponding indentations are then located on the outside of the sleeve at the points where the projections face inwards (during use).

[0040] Alternatively, the material thickness of the sleeve can be greater at the projections than in the remaining areas. In particular, the projections can be molded or injection-molded onto the remaining sleeve material. With this approach, the sleeve can have a substantially smooth surface (without indentations) on its outer surface.

[0041] Both deforming the sleeve material to create the protrusions while maintaining a constant material thickness, and adding the protrusions, which results in greater material thickness at the protrusions, can be performed while the sleeve material is in a substantially flat state. However, these steps can also be performed after the sleeve material has already been transformed into a sleeve-shaped state, or if the sleeve was manufactured as a sleeve (rather than as a substantially flat piece of material) from the outset.

[0042] The distance in the aforementioned remaining areas can deviate from the height of the sleeve protrusions by less than 20%, less than 15%, less than 10%, or less than 5%. The height of the protrusions can therefore be considered the target value for the distance of the remaining areas from the battery cell. This can be achieved through appropriate selection of the sleeve material and parameters affecting the sleeve and its protrusions (such as material thickness and EM 23-3520).

[0043] (Distance between the protrusions) the distance in the aforementioned remaining areas from the battery cell can be kept within a desired tolerance range around this target value.

[0044] The sleeve can be made from a strip that is initially essentially flat and is formed into a sleeve, wherein two opposite ends of the strip, after the strip has been formed into a sleeve, are: a) overlapping each other, or b) butting against each other without overlap, or c) attached to each other with adhesive or tape.

[0045] A combination of a) and c) or a combination of b) and c) is also possible. A manufacturing process in which the sleeve material is initially produced as an essentially flat strip can be implemented particularly easily, if necessary.

[0046] Alternatively, the sleeve can also be manufactured not as a primarily flat strip, but essentially as a tube or cylinder. In this case, neither adhesive nor overlapping is necessary, which can simplify production.

[0047] A second aspect of the present disclosure relates to a battery arrangement comprising: a battery assembly as described herein, and a holder with a recess in which the battery assembly is received.

[0048] The recess is designed as a through-hole (not a blind hole). The holder can be made of a substantially fluid-tight material, such as plastic. The holder material can be flexible to a certain degree, allowing the battery assembly (sleeve with protrusions and battery cell) to be fitted precisely into the recess, with any tolerances being compensated for by the holder's flexibility. For example, the holder could be made of expanded polystyrene (also known under the trade name Styropor®).

[0049] The holder can have several recesses, each of which accommodates a battery assembly as described herein. This allows for the handling of multiple battery cells, which may be electrically connected, as a single unit.

[0050] The battery assembly may also include a housing in which the holder is located. The housing thus serves as a container for the fluid (the coolant).

[0051] The housing can have an inlet and an outlet for the fluid, wherein the holder with the battery assembly(s) contained therein divides the housing into a first and a second chamber, the fluid being able to flow through the inlet into the first chamber, then through the flow channel defined between the sleeve and the battery cell, or through the flow channels defined between each sleeve and each battery cell, into the second chamber, and finally out of the second chamber through the outlet. In this case, the housing can thus form a fluid-tight enclosure for the battery assembly components and the fluid contained therein, and can be integrated into a cooling circuit via the inlet and outlet.The division into a first and a second chamber can be arranged such that the only path from the first chamber to the second chamber leads through the flow channels, thus forcing the fluid to flow through the flow channels to cool the battery cell(s). For this purpose, the holder can be substantially fluid-tight sealed against the housing, and the sleeve(s) can be substantially fluid-tight sealed against the holder. A slight flow of fluid "at the EM 23-3520.

[0052] However, passing through flow channels" may be acceptable, especially as long as a large proportion of the fluid flows through the flow channel(s).

[0053] The inventors have recognized that a relatively high fluid flow velocity at the surface of the battery cell(s) can promote uniform cooling of the battery cell(s). A relatively high flow velocity can be achieved by keeping the distance between the sleeve and the surface of the battery cell(s) relatively small in the remaining areas, as described herein. Such a relatively small distance can also enable a space-saving design and a reduction in the required amount of fluid, which in turn can result in weight savings. However, such a relatively small distance also means that even a slight deviation from a target value represents a large percentage deviation from that target value. The solution of a sleeve with suitable projections disclosed herein can reduce and, if necessary, optimize such deviations.

[0054] A third aspect of the present disclosure relates to a vehicle with a battery assembly or battery arrangement described herein. The battery assembly or battery arrangement can, for example, be used in a traction battery of the vehicle.

[0055] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a battery assembly described herein, comprising:

[0056] Providing a battery cell;

[0057] Providing a substantially flat band that has the protrusions on one side; and

[0058] Bending the band around the battery cell such that the sleeve is formed, which substantially encloses the battery cell in the circumferential direction at least at one cross-section of the battery cell, and such that the projections point inwards towards the battery cell and rest against the battery cell to maintain the remaining areas of the sleeve at a distance from the battery cell to define the flow channel for the fluid. EM 23-3520

[0059] The features and advantages described in relation to the first aspect of the revelation and its advantageous design also apply, at least where technically appropriate, to the other aspects of the revelation and their advantageous design, and vice versa.

[0060] Any terms used herein, such as "comprises," "includes," "features," "has," "with," or any other variant thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method or apparatus comprising or featuring a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such method or apparatus.

[0061] Furthermore, unless explicitly stated otherwise, "or" refers to an inclusive "or" and not an exclusive "or". For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by each of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0062] The terms "ein" or "eine," as used here, are defined as "one or more." The terms "ein anderer" and "ein Weitere," as well as any other variant thereof, are to be understood as "at least one more."

[0063] The term "plural", as used here, is to be understood in the sense of "two or more".

[0064] The terms "configured" or "set up" to perform a specific function (and their respective variations) are understood here to mean that the corresponding device is already in a configuration or setting in which it can perform the function, or at least that it is adjustable—i.e., configurable—so that it can perform the function after appropriate adjustment. Configuration can be achieved, for example, by adjusting parameters of a process sequence or by using switches or similar devices to activate or deactivate functionalities or settings. EM 23-3520

[0065] In particular, the device may have several predetermined configurations or operating modes, so that configuration can be carried out by selecting one of these configurations or operating modes.

[0066] The term "essentially" can, within the meaning of this disclosure, describe a deviation from a desired property. In particular, this can be a small deviation, i.e., without a significant change to the desired property. For example, if the desired property is considered a target property, "essentially" can describe a deviation from this target property of less than about 50%, less than about 30%, less than about 20%, less than about 10%, less than about 5%, less than about 2%, and in particular, less than about 1%.

[0067] Further features, advantages and applications of the revelation will be revealed in the following description in connection with the figures, in which the same reference signs are consistently used for the same or corresponding elements of the revelation.

[0068] For the sake of clarity, the figures are at least partially schematic or highly simplified. In particular, individual elements in the figures are not necessarily shown to scale in relation to other elements.

[0069] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a sleeve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] Fig. 2 shows a development of the sleeve from Fig. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view (viewed from above) of a section of a sleeve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Fig. 4 shows a cross-sectional view (from above) of a section of a sleeve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. EM 23-3520

[0073] Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional view (viewed from above) of a section of a sleeve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] Fig. 6 shows a cross-sectional view (viewed from above) of a section of a sleeve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] Fig. 7 shows, as in Fig. 1 as a development, various examples of a section of a sleeve according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] Fig. 8 shows, as in Fig. 1 as a development, various examples of a section of a sleeve according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] Fig. 9 shows, as in Fig. 1 as a development, various examples of a section of a sleeve according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] Fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional view (seen from above) of a

[0079] Battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional view (seen from above) of a

[0081] Battery arrangement according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] Fig. 12 shows a cross-sectional view (viewed from the side) of a battery arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] Fig. 13 shows a cross-sectional view (viewed from above) of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0084] Fig. 14 shows a flowchart to illustrate a method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a sleeve 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the sleeve 1 is designed as a cylindrical sleeve 1 with a circular cross-section. The outer surface of the sleeve 1 extends axially from a first axial end 5 to a second axial end 6. The outer surface of the outer surface, i.e., of the sleeve 1, is coated with EM 23-3520.

[0086] Reference numeral 7 is provided. On the inside of the sleeve 1 are several inwardly pointing projections or ribs 2, which are explained in more detail below.

[0087] Fig. 2 shows a development of the sleeve 1 from Fig. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. This development would result if the sleeve 1 were cut open from the first axial end 5 to the second axial end 6 and flattened. In this example, a rectangular strip 1 is obtained. However, it is also possible to first produce a strip 1 to manufacture the sleeve 1, and for the sleeve 1 to only be formed by transforming the strip 1 into a cylindrical state.

[0088] Band 1 has a certain stiffness, so that without external force it remains essentially dimensionally stable or flat - unlike a typical fabric band (for example, used in clothing manufacturing).

[0089] The material for the sleeve 1 can also initially be produced as a length of material, and sections of the desired length can be cut off from it to produce the band 1 shown in Fig. 1.

[0090] If, for the production of the sleeve 1, a strip 1 as shown in Fig. 2 is first produced, the strip 1 is deformed for its intended use as a sleeve 1 by joining the left and right ends of the strip 1 in Fig. 1 either overlapping or butting together, as will be explained further below. This results in, for example, a cylindrical sleeve 1 with a central axis (not shown) that would run from top to bottom in Fig. 1.

[0091] The band 1 shown in Fig. 1 has, in this embodiment, five projections 2 extending parallel to the central axis. In the example shown, these are formed as continuous ribs 2a, i.e., as ribs 2a that extend continuously from the first (upper) end 5 to the second (lower) end 6. When the band 1 is transformed into a sleeve-shaped state as described above, it is provided, according to the present disclosure EM 23-3520, that this is done in such a way that the projections or ribs 2 point radially inwards, as explained below.

[0092] Between the projections 2 are areas 4 in which the band 1 is set back from the projections 2 and is essentially flat - and does not have any projections 2.

[0093] The strip 1 or the corresponding sleeve 1 shown in Fig. 1 is designed to surround a battery cell 9 (Fig. 10), as explained in more detail below. Along the projections 2, i.e., from the first axial end 5 to the second axial end 6, the strip 1 can, for example, have a length of a few centimeters, for example, between 4 and 5 cm. However, the dimensions can vary depending on the application. For the purposes of this disclosure, it is provided that the strip 1 has a length in this direction that corresponds approximately to the height of a conventional battery cell, for example, a battery cell that is commonly used as a component of a vehicle's traction battery.

[0094] Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view (from above in Fig. 1 or 2) of a section of a sleeve 1 (in the flat state as shown in Fig. 2) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The viewing direction shown in Fig. 3 thus corresponds to a view along one of the projections 2 shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

[0095] The projection 2 is shown in Fig. 3 as a rib 2 with an approximately trapezoidal profile on the material of the sleeve 1. In the example shown, this projection 2 is therefore not formed by deformation of the sleeve 1, but represents additional material compared to the remaining areas 4. In the area of ​​the projection 2, the sleeve 1 thus has a greater material thickness than in the remaining areas 4. The outer surface 7 of the sleeve 1 is therefore smooth.

[0096] The projection 2 – shown separately from the rest of the sleeve material 1 in Fig. 2 – can be formed onto the rest of the sleeve material 1 after or during its production, in particular by injection molding. However, the projection 2 could also be produced simultaneously with the rest of the sleeve material 1, for example by an extrusion process.

[0097] As already mentioned, the projection 2 is attached to the side of the remaining material of the sleeve 1 that points (radially) inwards during intended use.

[0098] In Fig. 3, the height h of the projection 2 is (essentially) as large as the thickness or material thickness d of the remaining material of the sleeve 1. In other embodiments, the height h of the projection 2 and the material thickness d of the remaining material of the sleeve 1 can also be different (h > d or h < d).

[0099] Fig. 4 shows a cross-sectional view (viewed from above) of a section of a sleeve 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment according to Fig. 4 can be considered a modification of the embodiment according to Fig. 3. While the projection 2 in Fig. 3 is approximately trapezoidal, the projection 2 in Fig. 4 is rounded. The two embodiments according to Figs. 3 and 4 are only examples and are intended to illustrate that many different shapes are possible for the projection 2.

[0100] Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional view (viewed from above) of a section of a sleeve 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment according to Fig. 5 can be considered a modification of the embodiment according to Fig. 3. The projection 2 in Fig. 5 is again trapezoidal, but somewhat wider than in Fig. 3. Furthermore, the material thickness of the sleeve 1 in the region of the projection 2 is (essentially) the same as in the remaining regions 4. This results in a depression 18 on the side of the sleeve 1 opposite the projection 2, i.e., on the outer surface 7 of the sleeve 1. The outer surface 7 of the sleeve 1 is therefore not smooth.

[0101] The sleeve 1 according to Fig. 5 could, for example, also be manufactured by a suitable extrusion process. Alternatively, the sleeve 1 according to Fig. 5 could first be manufactured as a flat strip 1 (without projections 2), with the projections 2 then being produced by a suitable forming process, for example by pressing (possibly with the application of heat). EM 23-3520

[0102] Fig. 6 shows a cross-sectional view (viewed from above) of a section of a sleeve 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment according to Fig. 6 can be considered a modification of the embodiment according to Fig. 5. In contrast to the approximately trapezoidal profile of Fig. 5, the projection 2 and the recess 18 of Fig. 6 – similar to Fig. 4 – have a rounded shape.

[0103] Fig. 7 shows, as in Fig. 1 as a development, various examples of a section of a sleeve 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Only the axially first end 5 of the sleeve 1 is shown, as well as various projections 2b. In contrast to the projections or ribs 2 of Fig. 2, which extend from the first axial end 5 to the second axial end 6 of the sleeve 1, the ribs 2b according to Fig. 7 are interrupted in their course from the first axial end 5 to the second axial end 6 of the sleeve 1. Or, in other words, a pattern of several shorter ribs 2b is formed.

[0104] In each of the three "columns," the ribs 2b are aligned along a common straight line. In the example shown, this line runs perpendicular to the first axial end 5 of the sleeve 1. In the two left-hand columns, the individual ribs 2b run side by side in pairs, meaning their upper and lower ends are at the same height or the same distance from the first axial end 5 of the sleeve 1. In contrast, in the two right-hand columns, the individual ribs 2b are offset from one another. These rib patterns represent only two examples of possible arrangements of ribs 2b. Other arrangements or patterns are possible, as are combinations of several different patterns.

[0105] Fig. 8 shows, as in Fig. 1 as a development, various examples of a section of a sleeve 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Similar to Fig. 7, Fig. 8 shows by way of example various patterns of projections 2, namely a continuous rib 2a and interrupted ribs 2b. In each of the five "columns" shown in Fig. 8, the ribs 2a and 2b are arranged obliquely, i.e., at a non-zero (acute) angle to a straight line that runs perpendicular to the first axial end 5 of the sleeve 1. In a sleeve 1 according to Fig. 7, the projections 2 (or here: 2a and 2b) would thus form a spiral pattern. In a cylindrical sleeve 1 with a circular cross-section, for example, this spiral pattern would run around the central axis of the sleeve 1. EM 23-3520

[0106] In each of the second and third "columns" from the left, the non-continuous ribs 2b are again aligned along a common straight line. In contrast, in the two rightmost columns of Fig. 8, the ribs 2b are aligned along different straight lines. As already mentioned, other patterns and combinations are also possible.

[0107] Fig. 9 shows, as in Fig. 1 as a development, various examples of a section of a sleeve 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Similar to Fig. 7, the projections 2 (or here: 2c) form several "columns". However, the projections 2 are here designed as individual studs 2c. The studs 2c of the first, second, and fourth columns from the left are each at the same height (distance from the first axial end 5 of the sleeve 1), while the studs 2c of the third column from the left are offset from the studs 2c of the other columns. In a sleeve 1 (for example, cylindrical, circular), the studs 2c would, according to Fig. 9, form a spiral pattern in addition to a linear pattern.

[0108] Fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional view (from above) of a battery assembly 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The battery assembly 20 of Fig. 10 has a sleeve 1 in a cylindrical state. In this example, the sleeve 1 is made from a rectangular strip 1, the ends of which were joined by bending the strip 1. These ends are also referred to here as lateral ends to distinguish them from the first and second axial ends 5, 6 of the sleeve 1. In the representation of Fig. 2, the lateral ends would be located at the left and right ends of the strip 1.

[0109] The two lateral ends are shown abutting each other in the upper left of Fig. 10 (without reference numerals). The two abutting ends can be fixed together, for example, by adhesive or, as shown in Fig. 10, secured by adhesive tape 8 on the outer circumference 7 of the sleeve 1. In the example shown, the sleeve 1 has three inwardly projecting protrusions 2. These are each arranged offset by 120° around the central axis of the sleeve 1.

[0110] The sleeve 1 surrounds a battery cell 9, which in this example is designed as a cylindrical battery cell or round cell 9. The three projections 2 of the sleeve 1 rest against the outer surface 10 of the battery cell 9 and thus hold the remaining EM 23-3520

[0111] Areas 4 of the sleeve 1 are at a distance from the outer surface 10 of the battery cell 9. This creates three flow channels 3 or one (total) flow channel 3 along the outer surface 10 of the battery cell 9. This flow channel 3 is therefore bounded by the outer surface 10 of the battery cell 9, the projections 2 and the remaining areas 4 of the sleeve 1.

[0112] Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional view (viewed from above) of a battery arrangement 21 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The battery arrangement 21 of Fig. 11 has a battery assembly 20 which is similar to the battery assembly 20 of Fig. 10. However, in the example of Fig. 11, the lateral ends are not abutting each other, but overlapping, see overlap 19. In the example of Fig. 11, a flow channel 3 is also formed, which, however, is shaped differently in the area of ​​the overlap 19 than in Fig. 10. Since the projections 2 have the same height as the material of the sleeve 1, especially also at the lateral ends, the overlap 19 acts like an additional projection that keeps the remaining areas 4 of the sleeve 1 at a distance from the outer surface 10 of the battery cell 9.

[0113] The battery assembly 20 is shown in Fig. 11 in a recess 22 in a holder 11, for example made of expanded polystyrene. The holder 11 is in turn held in a housing 12. Since the recess 22 of the holder 11 has essentially the same size and shape as the battery assembly 20 in the cross-section shown, the battery assembly 20 is essentially sealed against the holder 11 in a fluid-tight manner. However, the overlap 19 creates a void 13 between the outer surface 7 of the sleeve 1 and the recess 22. A cooling fluid flowing through the flow channel 3 would potentially also flow through this void 13. This void 13 is relatively small, however, so that the function of the battery assembly 21 is only minimally affected.According to one variant of this embodiment, the void 13 can also be sealed, for example by introducing a filling material into this void 13. The void 13 can also be avoided by designing the battery assembly 20 as shown in Fig. 10 with flush lateral ends of the sleeve 1. EM 23-3520.

[0114] Fig. 11 also indicates, in dashed lines, an inlet 14 and an outlet 15 for a coolant. This is explained in more detail with reference to Fig. 12.

[0115] Fig. 12 shows a cross-sectional view (side view) of a battery arrangement 21 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the example shown in Fig. 12, the battery arrangement 21 has two cylindrical battery cells 9. Each of these battery cells 9 is surrounded by a respective sleeve 1 (shown with dashed lines). Since Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view, only a cross-section of the corresponding sleeve 1 is shown to the right and left of each battery cell 9. For the sake of clarity, individual details of the two sleeves 1 are not shown. Each of the two sleeves 1 is in turn received in a corresponding recess 22 of the holder 11. Although Fig. 12 shows three elements designated with the reference numeral 11, these are a single component – ​​this is also due to the cross-sectional view shown in Fig. 12.The holder 11 with sleeves 1 and battery cells 9 is housed in a casing 12. Although gaps between the battery cells 9, sleeves 1, holder 11, and casing 12 are shown for clarity, these components are essentially fluid-tight from one another, so that the holder 11 with sleeves 1 and battery cells 9 divides the casing 12 into two chambers, namely a first chamber 16 and a second chamber 17. Coolant can flow into the first chamber 16 through the inlet 14 and out of the second chamber 17 through an outlet 15. Within the casing 12, the only fluid connection from the first chamber 16 to the second chamber 17 is through the flow channels 3, which are formed between the sleeves 1 and the battery cells 9 (and optionally through the small void 13, see Fig. 11). When the battery arrangement 21 of Fig.12 is connected to a cooling circuit, thus the coolant is forced to flow through the flow channels 3 and thus cool the battery cells 9.

[0116] Fig. 13 shows a cross-sectional view (viewed from above) of a battery assembly 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The battery assembly 20 of Fig. 13 can be considered a modification of the battery assembly 20 shown in Fig. 10. In the example of Fig. 13, however, the battery cell 9 is not designed as a cylindrical cell 9, but as a prismatic EM 23-3520

[0117] Battery cell 9 has a rectangular cross-section. Furthermore, the sleeve 1 is not manufactured as a flat strip 1 with two lateral ends, which is then formed into a sleeve 1 by bringing the lateral ends together, but rather as a circumferentially closed sleeve 1 from the outset, for example, as a flexible tube. This eliminates the need for overlapping (see overlap 19 in Fig. 11). Adhesive or tape, such as tape 8 shown in Fig. 10, is also unnecessary.

[0118] Fig. 14 shows a flowchart illustrating a method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The method can be used, for example, to manufacture a battery assembly 20 according to Fig. 10, 11 or 13 or a battery arrangement 21 according to Fig. 11 or 12.

[0119] After the process is started (step 30), a battery cell 9 is provided in step 31. In step 32, a substantially flat strip 1 is also provided, which has projections 2 on one side. Subsequently, in step 33, the strip 1 is bent around the battery cell 9 such that a sleeve 1 is formed which substantially encloses the battery cell 9 in the circumferential direction at least at one cross-section of the battery cell 9. The strip 1 is oriented so that the projections 2 point inwards towards the battery cell 9 and are in contact with the battery cell 9. The remaining areas 4 of the sleeve 1 are thus held at a distance from the battery cell 9 to define a flow channel 3 for a fluid. The process can then end (step 37).

[0120] Optionally, one or more steps can follow step 33. For example, in optional step 34, the lateral ends of the strip 1 can be fixed relative to each other, for instance, by an adhesive or tape 8. In a further optional step 35, the battery assembly 20 can be inserted into a holder 11 to form a battery assembly 21. Finally, in a further optional step 36, the holder 11 with the inserted battery assembly 20 can be placed into a housing 12 to further form the battery assembly 21. EM 23-3520

[0121] Each of the embodiments of a battery assembly 20 or a battery arrangement 21 described herein can be used as or in a traction battery of a vehicle (not shown).

[0122] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been described above, it should be noted that a large number of variations exist. It should also be noted that the described exemplary embodiments are merely non-limiting examples, and it is not intended to restrict the scope, applicability, or configuration of the devices described herein. Rather, the preceding description will provide a guide for the person skilled in the art to implement at least one exemplary embodiment. It is understood that various modifications to the function and arrangement of the elements described in an exemplary embodiment can be made without derogating from the subject matter defined in the appended claims and their legal equivalents.The features described herein may be combined with one another in any way, unless expressly excluded or technically impossible. Likewise, features described primarily in connection with one aspect disclosed herein may also represent features of the other aspects disclosed herein. Furthermore, all aspects and features disclosed herein, either individually or in combination, are to be considered aspects of the present invention.

[0123] EM 23-3520

[0124] Reference symbol list

[0125] 1 sleeve; band

[0126] 2 lead

[0127] 2a continuous rib

[0128] 2b interrupted ribs

[0129] 2c pimples

[0130] 3 Flow channel

[0131] 4 Area without a ledge; remaining area

[0132] 5 first axial end

[0133] 6 second axial end

[0134] 7 Outer side of the sleeve

[0135] 8 adhesive tape

[0136] 9 battery cells

[0137] 10 Outer surface of the battery cell

[0138] 11 bracket

[0139] 12 cases

[0140] 13 empty spaces

[0141] 14 Admission

[0142] 15 Outlet

[0143] 16 first chamber

[0144] 17 second chamber

[0145] 18 In-depth study

[0146] 19 Overlap

[0147] 20 Battery assembly

[0148] 21 Battery arrangement

[0149] 22 Exclusion

[0150] 30-37 process steps

Claims

25 EM 23-3520 REQUIREMENTS 1. Battery assembly (20) comprising: a battery cell (9) and a sleeve (1), wherein the sleeve (1) substantially encloses the battery cell (9) in the circumferential direction at at least one cross-section of the battery cell (9), wherein the sleeve (1) has inwardly projecting protrusions (2) with which the sleeve (1) can abut the battery cell (9) in order to keep remaining areas (4) of the sleeve (1) at a distance from the battery cell (9) in order to define a flow channel (3) for a fluid.

2. Battery assembly (20) according to claim 1, wherein the projections (2): a) have ribs (2a) extending substantially continuously from a first axial end (5) of the sleeve (1) to a second axial end (6) of the sleeve (1) opposite the first axial end (5), or b) have ribs (2b) that are interrupted at least once between the first axial end (5) of the sleeve (1) and the second axial end (6) of the sleeve (1), or c) have knobs (2c).

3. Battery assembly (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the projections (2) or a pattern resulting from the projections (2) are: a) oriented substantially parallel to a central axis of the sleeve (1) extending from a first axial end (5) of the sleeve (1) to a second axial end (6) of the sleeve (1) opposite the first axial end (5), or EM 23-3520 b) are essentially spirally aligned around the central axis or is.

4. Battery assembly (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said remaining areas (4) of the sleeve (1) are at least: occupy 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% of the total circumferential area of ​​the sleeve (1).

5. Battery assembly (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: a) the projections (2) have a height (h) perpendicular to the circumferential surface of the sleeve (1) which is between 50% and 200% of the material thickness (d) of the sleeve (1) in said remaining areas (4), in particular more than 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% and / or in particular less than 175%, 150%, 130%, 120% or 110% of the material thickness (d) of the sleeve (1) in said remaining areas (4); or b) the projections (2) have a height (h) perpendicular to the circumferential surface of the sleeve (1) which is between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, in particular more than 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm or 0.45 mm and / or in particular less than 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, 1.5 mm, 1 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.6 mm or 0.55 mm; or c) the material thickness (d) of the sleeve (1) in the said remaining areas (4) is between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, in particular more than 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm or 0.45 mm and / or in particular less than 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, 1.5 mm, 1 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.6 mm or 0.55 mm;or d) a material of the sleeve (1) at the projections (2) and / or in the said remaining areas (4) is a plastic material; or e) a material of the sleeve (1) is flexible, in particular can be brought from a flat state into a sleeve-shaped state without breaking, in particular by hand by an average adult without aids.; EM 23-3520 6. Battery assembly (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: a) the material thickness of the sleeve (1) at the projections (2) and in said remaining areas (4) is substantially the same, or b) wherein the material thickness of the sleeve (1) at the projections (2) is greater than in said remaining areas (4), in particular wherein the projections (2) are integrally formed or injection molded onto the remaining material of the sleeve (1).

7. Battery assembly (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the distance in said remaining areas (4) deviates by less than 20% or less than 15% or less than 10% or less than 5% from the height (h) of the projections (2) of the sleeve (1).

8. Battery assembly (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve (1) is made from a strip (1) that is initially substantially flat and is formed into a sleeve (1), wherein two opposite ends of the strip (1), after the strip (1) has been formed into a sleeve (1), are: a) overlapping each other, or b) butting up against each other without overlap (19), or c) being fastened to each other with adhesive or an adhesive tape (8).

9. Battery assembly (20) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sleeve (1) is not manufactured as a substantially flat strip (1), but substantially tubular or cylindrical.

10. Battery arrangement (21) comprising: a battery assembly (20) according to one of the preceding claims, and a holder (11) with a recess (22) in which the battery assembly (20) is received. 28 EM 23-3520 11. Battery arrangement (21) according to claim 10, wherein the holder (11) has several recesses (22), wherein a battery assembly (20) according to one of claims 1 to 9 is received in each of the recesses (22).

12. Battery arrangement (21) according to claim 11, further comprising a housing (12) in which the holder (11) is arranged.

13. Battery arrangement (21) according to claim 12, wherein the housing (12) has an inlet (14) and an outlet (15) for the fluid, wherein the holder (11) with the battery assembly (20) or battery assemblies (20) divides the housing (12) into a first and a second chamber (16, 17), wherein the fluid can flow through the inlet (14) into the first chamber (16), then through the flow channel (3) defined between the sleeve (1) and the battery cell (9) or through the flow channels (3) defined between a respective sleeve (1) and a respective battery cell (9) into the second chamber (17), and then through the outlet (15) out of the second chamber (17).

14. Vehicle with a battery assembly (20) according to one of claims 1 to 9 or a battery arrangement (21) according to one of claims 10 to 13.

15. Method for manufacturing a battery assembly (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising: Providing a battery cell (9); Providing a substantially flat band (1) having the projections (2) on one side; and Bending the band (1) around the battery cell (9) such that the sleeve (1) is formed which substantially encloses the battery cell (9) in the circumferential direction at at least one cross-section of the battery cell (9) and such that the projections (2) point inwards towards the battery cell (9) and bear against the battery cell (9) in order to keep the remaining areas (4) of the sleeve (1) at a distance from the battery cell (9) in order to define the flow channel (3) for the fluid.

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