Battery cell holder, battery module and aircraft

Abstract

The invention relates to a battery cell holder (1) for fixing a plurality of battery cells (22) in a battery module (20) for an aircraft (30), the battery cell holder (1) comprising: a main body (2) having a plurality of passages (5), each of the passages (5) being designed for one battery cell (22) to be at least partly inserted in an insertion direction (R) into a corresponding passage (5); and in each of the passages (5) there are disposed multiple, but preferably three, projections (10), which narrow the cross-section of at least a portion of the respective passage (5) in the insertion direction (R) of the corresponding battery cell (22), each of the multiple projections (10) being designed to be resilient, preferably spring-elastic.

Description

[0001] Volocopter Technologies GmbH September 15, 2025 BT23003-WO

[0002] Battery cell holder, battery module and aircraft

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present invention relates to a battery cell holder. The battery cell holder is designed for fixing a plurality of electric batteries in a battery module of an aircraft. The battery cell holder according to the invention essentially comprises a base body with several passages for each battery cell and at least one flexible projection per passage.

[0005] The invention also relates to a battery module for an aircraft, wherein the battery module has a battery cell holder according to the invention.

[0006] An aircraft with such a battery module is also the subject of the present invention.

[0007] State of the art

[0008] Aircraft with hybrid or purely electric propulsion systems are known from the prior art. For example, there are aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing that are powered exclusively by electricity. Such aircraft are also referred to as electrical Vertical Take Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

[0009] Electrically powered aircraft, especially eVTOL aircraft, require high-capacity battery modules to provide electrical energy. These battery modules typically comprise a large number of individual battery cells. The sum of the electrical capacities of all the individual battery cells constitutes the total capacity of the respective battery module. Volocopter Technologies GmbH, September 15, 2025

[0010] BT23003-WO

[0011] In addition to exceptionally high electrical capacity, the battery modules must also be particularly lightweight and safe. The increased safety requirements include high shock and vibration resistance as well as increased tolerance to thermal runaway in individual battery cells. To increase this tolerance, it has proven effective to interrupt or reduce the propagation of thermal energy from a runaway cell within the battery module by spacing the individual cells. This spacing, however, must be maintained at all times.

[0012] Consequently, there is a need for a battery cell holder that is inexpensive to manufacture, not only has a low weight, but also allows the battery cells to be securely fixed and spaced apart within the battery module.

[0013] Description of the invention

[0014] It is therefore an object of the present invention to satisfy the aforementioned needs and / or to eliminate the disadvantages associated with the prior art. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a cost-effective and easy-to-manufacture battery cell holder that has a reduced weight and with which battery cells can be securely fixed and spaced apart from one another in a battery module.

[0015] This problem is solved with a battery cell holder according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the battery cell holder according to the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and / or are explained in the following description.

[0016] According to the invention, a battery cell holder is proposed, designed for use in a battery module, in particular for use in a battery module for an aircraft. The battery cell holder comprises a base body with multiple passages. The base body can be essentially cuboid in shape. Independently of this, the base body can be made of a thermoplastic and / or comprise a thermoplastic material. Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025

[0017] BT23003-WO

[0018] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "passage" means any opening or recess, in particular any free space, in the base body that is suitable for another object, in particular a battery cell, to pass through the opening or recess, at least partially, and / or to be inserted into the opening or recess. For example, a passage can be a circular cylindrical opening or a circular cylindrical through-hole in the base body. Advantageously, the cross-sectional shape of a passage essentially corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the battery cell that is to be inserted into the corresponding passage.

[0019] According to the invention, each of the passages is designed and / or shaped such that a battery cell can be inserted, at least partially, into one of the multiple passages. Each battery cell can be inserted into the corresponding passage in a specific insertion direction. Alternatively or additionally, the passages can be designed and / or shaped such that the battery cells can be removed from the corresponding passage in an extraction direction. Preferably, the extraction direction is opposite to the insertion direction.

[0020] According to the invention, several, preferably three, projections are arranged in each of the passages. The projections are designed and / or shaped such that each projection reduces the cross-section of the respective passage, at least in sections. In other words, each projection extends into the passage in such a way that the clearance in the passage is reduced by the projection. The projections can, in particular, be designed such that each projection progressively reduces the cross-section in the insertion direction, at least in sections. This means that each projection extends further and further into the passage in the insertion direction, at least in sections, and the clearance in the passage is progressively reduced in the insertion direction.

[0021] Furthermore, the projections are flexible, in particular spring-like. This can advantageously cause the projections to yield spring-like when a battery cell is inserted into the corresponding passage. For the purposes of the present invention, the term "spring-like" describes the functionality of a body and / or structure according to which the body and / or structure can be deformed by an external force, wherein the body and / or structure generates a restoring force that counteracts the deformation. Preferably, the spring-like body and / or structure is not permanently plastically deformed by the force.

[0022] Preferably, the flexible projections are designed to center a battery cell in the corresponding passage during insertion and to fix it in place after the insertion process is complete. For this purpose, the projections can be made of a softer, particularly a more elastic, material than the battery cell. The battery cell can deform the flexible projections during insertion into the corresponding passage.

[0023] The battery cell holder according to the invention can therefore advantageously enable the battery cell to be inserted into a passage particularly easily and centrally, and to be securely fixed in the passage. This has the advantage that the battery cell holder according to the invention can be manufactured cost-effectively and that the battery cells can be held securely and spaced apart from one another by the battery cell holder.

[0024] In an advantageous embodiment of the battery cell holder according to the invention, at least one of the projections is a hollow body. Preferably, all projections are designed as hollow bodies. Particularly preferred is a hollow body open at one end.

[0025] For the purposes of this invention, the term "hollow body" refers to a shape that has a cavity inside. In other words, the hollow body has a material recess in its interior, at least in some sections. A "hollow body open on one side" is a shape in which the cavity is not completely enclosed by the material of the hollow body.

[0026] Further processing into a hollow body can increase the elasticity of the corresponding projection(s). Independently of this, the material recess within the cavity allows for weight savings, which can further facilitate its use in the aerospace industry.

[0027] In another exemplary embodiment, at least one of the projections has a concave surface on a side facing away from the corresponding passage. Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0028] Preferably, all projections have a concave surface on a side facing away from the corresponding passages.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the projections has a convex surface on a side facing the clearance of the corresponding passage. Preferably, all projections have a convex surface on a side facing the clearance of the corresponding passages.

[0030] The concave and / or convex shaped surfaces can advantageously increase the elasticity of the corresponding projection(s). This can further improve the functionality of the battery cell holder.

[0031] At least one projection can be rib-shaped on the inner surface of the respective passage. Preferably, all projections are rib-shaped on the inner surface of the respective passage. For the purposes of this invention, "rib-shaped" refers to a substantially rod-shaped body. The rib-shaped projections can extend with their longitudinal side in the direction of insertion and along the inner surface of the corresponding passage. The rib-shaped projections can advantageously enable the battery cell holders to be manufactured particularly cost-effectively.

[0032] In another exemplary embodiment of the battery cell holder, at least one of the projections has a centering section. Preferably, each projection has a centering section. The centering section can be designed to center the battery cell when inserted into the respective passage, particularly with respect to the respective passage. Advantageously, the centering section is designed such that it progressively reduces the cross-section of the corresponding passage in the insertion direction. The centering section can be substantially semi-conical. Preferably, the semi-conical centering section extends in the insertion direction from the apex to the base. The centering section can have at least a portion of a convex surface, which may face the passage.Especially in the interaction of all centering sections of Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO.

[0033] The protrusions of a passage allow the battery cell to be centered particularly well when inserted into the corresponding passage of the battery cell holder.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the projections has a fixing section. Preferably, all projections have a fixing section. The fixing section can be designed to fix the battery cell in the battery cell holder after insertion into the respective passage, particularly with respect to the respective passage. Advantageously, the fixing section adjoins the centering section in the insertion direction, particularly the base of the semi-conical centering section. Most preferably, the fixing section adjoins the centering section directly in the insertion direction, particularly the base of the semi-conical centering section. The fixing section can be designed such that it uniformly reduces the cross-section of the corresponding passage in the insertion direction.The fixing section can be formed, in particular, by the rib-shaped part of the projection. Especially through the interaction of all fixing sections of the projections in a passage, the battery cell can be held or fixed particularly well in the battery cell holder, especially in the corresponding passage of the battery cell holder.

[0035] At least one of the projections can have a transition section. Preferably, all projections have a fixing section. The transition section can, in particular, have a concave surface facing the corresponding passage. The transition section preferably forms the structural transition from the inner surface of the passage to the fixing section. Alternatively or additionally, the transition section can form the structural transition from the inner surface of the passage to the centering section.

[0036] In an alternative embodiment of the battery cell holder, at least one of the projections can be an expanding element extending into the corresponding passage. Preferably, the expanding element is designed to be pressed against the inner surface of the corresponding passage in a spring-like manner when the battery cell is inserted into the passage. The expanding element can be spread away from the inner surface of the corresponding passage such that it extends increasingly into the passage in the insertion direction. Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0037] When a battery cell is inserted into the corresponding passage, the spreading element can be displaced by the battery cell, in particular pressed against the inner surface of the passage. This centers the battery cell relative to the passage, especially through the interaction of all the projections designed as spreading elements. Due to the elasticity of the spreading element, it presses permanently against the battery cell wall after insertion, thereby fixing the cell in the passage.

[0038] The spreading body can have a connecting section and be connected to the base body via this connecting section, in particular arranged on the inner surface of the corresponding passage. The connecting section can be designed as a centering section.

[0039] In another exemplary embodiment of the battery cell holder, the projections and the base body are formed in one piece, in particular by injection molding. For example, the battery cell holder is an injection-molded part, wherein the base body, the passages, and the projections are formed in a single injection process. This can advantageously result in the battery cell holder being manufactured particularly cost-effectively without any reduction in functionality.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the passages has three projections. Preferably, all passages have three projections each. The three projections are evenly distributed around the circumference of the respective passage. For example, the three projections can be arranged at 120° intervals around the circumference of the respective passage. The even distribution of the three projections can advantageously ensure that, in conjunction with each other, the projections center the battery cell particularly well when it is inserted into the respective passage and fix it particularly well in the passage after insertion.

[0041] The passages of the battery cell holder can be arranged in several rows. Preferably, the passages of each pair of adjacent rows are offset from one another. For example, two adjacent passages of the same row, together with a passage of the adjacent row, can form a triangular arrangement. This arrangement can advantageously result in a particularly large number of passages in the Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0042] The base body of the battery cell holder can be provided. This allows a particularly large number of battery cells to be arranged in a single battery cell holder.

[0043] In a further exemplary embodiment, which can be a particularly advantageous further development of the aforementioned embodiment, the base body has a material recess between the passages, in particular between three adjacent passages. The material recess can essentially have the shape of a prism, preferably a triangular or a square prism. The material recess, in particular its longitudinal side, can be located at least partially in the direction of insertion of the battery cell(s). To stiffen the structure of the base body, a reinforcing structure can be provided within the material recess. For example, the reinforcing structure can be honeycomb-shaped or designed as a reinforcing element. In any case, a material recess in the base body can advantageously result in additional weight savings.This can have the advantage that the battery cell holder is particularly lightweight and therefore especially suitable for use in aviation.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the aforementioned design, at least one projection per passage can be arranged in the area of ​​the material recess. For example, the projection can be provided in the area of ​​the material recess such that the cavity of the corresponding projection is formed by a portion of the material recess in the base body.

[0045] At least one stop element can be provided at at least one passage of the battery cell holder. Preferably, at least one stop element is provided at each passage of the battery cell holder. Particularly preferably, several stop elements are provided at each passage of the battery cell holder. The stop element can be designed to limit the insertion of a battery cell into the corresponding passage. For example, a battery cell can be inserted into a corresponding passage until it abuts the stop element. In other words, the stop element can prevent further movement of the battery cell in the insertion direction. An embodiment of the battery cell holder with a stop element has the advantage that the Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0046] The insertion of the battery cells into the passages of the base body can be further simplified. This can contribute to a reduction in manufacturing costs. Independently of the above, the stop elements can ensure that each battery cell is inserted to the same depth into its respective passage relative to the other battery cells.

[0047] In an advantageous further development of the aforementioned embodiment, the stop element is arranged at the longitudinal end of the corresponding passage in the insertion direction. This can advantageously ensure that the battery cell can be inserted into the passage along its entire length. Alternatively or additionally, the stop element is arranged offset from the projections in the circumferential direction of the corresponding passage. This can have the advantage that the different technical functionalities of the projections and the stop element do not negatively affect each other. For example, the offset ensures that a compliant deformation of a projection during the insertion of the battery cell does not lead to a change in the position of the stop element in the same passage.

[0048] In a further development, the stop element and the base body are formed in one piece, in particular by injection molding. For example, the battery cell holder is an injection-molded part, whereby the base body, the passages, and the stop elements are formed in a single injection process. This can advantageously result in the battery cell holder being manufactured particularly cost-effectively without any reduction in functionality.

[0049] The problem stated at the outset of the invention is also solved with a battery module according to claim 8. Advantageous further developments of the battery module according to the invention are the subject of the corresponding dependent claims and / or are explained in the following description.

[0050] According to the invention, a battery module is proposed that is designed for use in an aircraft, preferably for use in an electrically powered aircraft, and particularly preferably for use in an eVTOL aircraft. For this purpose, the battery module comprises, in addition to at least one battery cell holder according to the aforementioned embodiments, a housing, wherein the battery cell holder is arranged within the housing. The battery module further comprises several battery cells. Each of the several battery cells is inserted, at least partially, into one of the passages of the battery cell holder. This ensures that each of the battery cells is spaced apart from the other battery cells and fixed within the battery module.

[0051] Since the battery module according to the invention has at least one battery cell holder corresponding to the aforementioned embodiments, all of the aforementioned features, combinations of features, and the respective advantages associated with them are also transferable to the battery module according to the invention, or at least transferable in an analogous manner. The battery module according to the invention realizes the same inventive idea as one of the aforementioned battery cell holders.

[0052] In an advantageous embodiment of the battery module according to the invention, the spaces between the spaced-apart batteries are filled with a potting compound. In other words, the sections of the battery cells not located in the passages of the battery cell holder are partially or completely embedded in the potting compound. The potting compound can not only increase the shock and vibration resistance of the battery module, but also advantageously contributes to the thermal insulation of the battery cells from one another.

[0053] The battery module can have several battery cell holders, in particular a first battery cell holder and a second battery cell holder. Preferably, the first battery cell holder is arranged at a first longitudinal end of the battery cells. This means that the battery cells are each inserted into the openings of the first battery cell holder with at least one battery cell section at their first longitudinal end. The second battery cell holder can be arranged at a second longitudinal end of the battery cells. This means that the battery cells are each inserted into the openings of the second battery cell holder with at least one battery cell section at their second longitudinal end. The second longitudinal end of the battery cells is preferably an end of the battery cells opposite the first longitudinal end of the battery cells.The opposing arrangement of the two battery cell holders within the housing and / or the securing of the battery cells on both sides by the two battery cell holders results in a particularly stable design of the battery module. Volocopter Technologies GmbH, September 15, 2025.

[0054] BT23003-WO

[0055] The problem stated at the outset of the invention is also solved with an aircraft according to claim 10. Advantageous further developments of the aircraft according to the invention are the subject of the corresponding dependent claims and / or are explained in the following description.

[0056] According to the invention, an aircraft is proposed which has one or more battery modules according to the aforementioned embodiments. Since the aircraft according to the invention has at least one battery module according to the aforementioned embodiments, all of the aforementioned features, combinations of features, and the respective advantages associated therewith are also transferable to the aircraft according to the invention, or at least transferable in an analogous manner. The aircraft according to the invention realizes the same inventive idea as one of the aforementioned battery cell holders and / or one of the aforementioned battery modules.

[0057] The aircraft according to the invention can in particular be an electrically powered, preferably exclusively electrically powered, aircraft. The aircraft is preferably designed for vertical take-off and landing. The aircraft can be an "electrical Vertical Take-off and Landing" (eVTOL) aircraft.

[0058] The propulsion devices are designed to generate lift for the aircraft. For example, the propulsion devices can be designed as rotors. When the rotors rotate, they preferably generate a lift force—that is, a vertical thrust—which enables the aircraft to take off, land, and / or hover vertically. Alternatively or additionally, the propulsion devices can be designed to generate thrust. This means that the propulsion devices can generate an acceleration force—that is, a horizontal thrust—which accelerates the aircraft in a forward direction.

[0059] According to the invention, each drive device is powered by a corresponding electric motor. The electric motors can be electrically connected to the battery module, so that the battery module supplies the electric motors with electrical energy.

[0060] The invention and advantageous embodiments of the invention can also be described by way of example by the following aspects. The aspects listed in the Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0061] Features can be combined with the aforementioned features as desired, provided this is technically sensible and appropriate.

[0062] Aspect 1 Battery cell holder for fixing several battery cells in a battery module for an aircraft, comprising battery cell holders:

[0063] (a) a basic body with multiple passages, wherein

[0064] (b) each of the passages is designed such that a battery cell can be inserted at least section by section into the corresponding passage in one insertion direction, and

[0065] (c) in each of the passages several, preferably three, projections are arranged which reduce the cross-section of the respective passage in the insertion direction of the battery cell at least section by section, wherein

[0066] (d) each of the multiple projections (10) is designed to be flexible, preferably spring-elastic, and

[0067] (e) each of the projections has a semi-conical centering section to center the corresponding battery cell when inserted into the respective passage,

[0068] (f) each of the projections has a fixing section adjoining the centering section in the insertion direction in order to fix the corresponding battery cell after insertion into the respective passage, and

[0069] (g) each of the projections has a transition section with a concave surface facing the corresponding passage, the transition section forming a structural transition from an inner surface of the passage to the fixing section.

[0070] Aspect 2 battery cell holder according to aspect 1, characterized in that at least one, preferably each of the projections is designed as a hollow body, preferably as a hollow body open on one side.

[0071] Aspect 3 Battery cell holder according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the projections on a side facing away from the corresponding passage have a concave surface and / or are based on Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025

[0072] BT23003-WO has a convexly shaped surface on one side facing the corresponding passage.

[0073] Aspect 4 Battery cell holder according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the projections are designed as rib-shaped projections on the inner surface of the respective passage.

[0074] Aspect 5 Battery cell holder according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the projections and the base body are one piece, preferably thermoformed together.

[0075] Aspect 6 Battery cell holder according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that each of the passages has three projections and the projections are arranged evenly distributed over the circumference of the corresponding passage, preferably every 120° in the circumferential direction of the corresponding passage.

[0076] Aspect 7 Battery cell holder according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the passages are circular cylindrical passages, preferably circular cylindrical through holes.

[0077] Aspect 8 Battery cell holder according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the passages are arranged in rows, wherein two adjacent rows are arranged offset from each other in such a way that two adjacent passages of the same row together with a passage of the adjacent row form a triangular arrangement.

[0078] Aspect 9 Battery cell holder according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the base body has a material recess between three passages and the material recess essentially has the shape of a prism, preferably a triangular prism or a square prism. Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025

[0079] BT23003-WO

[0080] Aspect 10 Battery cell holder according to aspect 9, characterized in that the material recess extends in the insertion direction over a part of the thickness of the base body.

[0081] Aspect 11 Battery cell holder according to aspect 9 or aspect 10, characterized in that at least one projection per passage is arranged in the area of ​​the material recess.

[0082] Aspect 12 Battery cell holder according to one of aspects 9 to 11, characterized in that a reinforcement structure is arranged in the material recess.

[0083] Aspect 13 Battery cell holder according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that at least one stop element is arranged at each passage, and the stop element is designed to limit the insertion of a battery cell into the corresponding passage.

[0084] Aspect 14 Battery cell holder according to aspect 13, characterized in that the stop body is arranged in the insertion direction at the end of the passage and / or is arranged offset with respect to at least one, preferably each of the several projections of the passage, preferably is arranged offset in the circumferential direction of the passage.

[0085] Aspect 15 Battery cell holder according to aspect 13 or aspect 14, characterized in that the stop body and the base body are one piece, preferably thermoformed together.

[0086] Aspect 16 Battery module for an aircraft, comprising the battery module:

[0087] (a) a housing in which a battery cell holder is arranged according to any of the preceding aspects, and

[0088] (b) several battery cells, each of the several battery cells being at least partially used in one of the iterations of the

[0089] The battery cell holder is inserted so that the battery cells are spaced apart within the holder. Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0090] Aspect 17 Battery module according to aspect 16, characterized in that the spaces between the battery cells are filled with a potting compound.

[0091] Aspect 18 battery module according to aspect 16 or aspect 17, characterized in that the

[0092] The battery module comprises a first battery cell holder and a second battery cell holder, wherein the first battery cell holder is arranged at a first longitudinal end of the battery cells and the second battery cell holder is arranged at a second longitudinal end of the battery cells opposite the first longitudinal end.

[0093] Aspect 19 Aircraft, preferably eVTOL aircraft, with

[0094] (a) a battery module, preferably several battery modules, according to one of aspects 16 to 18,

[0095] (b) several lift- and / or thrust-generating drive devices, preferably several rotors, wherein

[0096] (c) each of the drive devices is driven by an electric motor, and

[0097] (d) the battery module is designed to supply the electric motors with electrical energy.

[0098] Brief description of the drawings

[0099] The various exemplary features described above can be combined with one another, provided this is technically feasible and appropriate. Further combinable features, advantages, and embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments and with reference to the figures. These show:

[0100] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a section of a first embodiment of a battery cell holder,

[0101] Figure 2 shows a top view of the upper surface of the first embodiment, Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025

[0102] BT23003-WO

[0103] Figure 3 shows a sectional view of the first embodiment according to the section shown in Figure 2, wherein a battery cell is inserted into the battery cell holder.

[0104] Figure 4 shows the sectional view of the first embodiment according to Figure 3, wherein the battery cell is inserted into the battery cell holder.

[0105] Figure 5 shows a top view of the underside of the first embodiment,

[0106] Figure 6 shows a sectional view of a second embodiment of a

[0107] battery cell holder, wherein a battery cell is inserted into the battery cell holder according to the second embodiment,

[0108] Figure 7 shows the sectional view of the second embodiment according to Figure 6, wherein the battery cell is inserted into the battery cell holder according to the second embodiment.

[0109] Figure 8 shows a schematic sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a battery module and

[0110] Figure 9 shows a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of an aircraft.

[0111] Ways to implement the invention

[0112] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a battery cell holder 1. The battery cell holder 1 is designed to be used in a battery module 20 for an aircraft 30 (see Figure 9), which is not shown in Figure 1.

[0113] The battery cell holder 1 comprises a base body 2, the base body 2 having several passages 5. In the first embodiment shown in Figure 1, the passages 5 are designed as circular cylindrical through-holes 5. The base body 2 has a first surface 3, in particular a top surface 3. A second surface 4, in particular a bottom surface 4, is a surface facing away from the viewer in Figure 1. Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0114] Base body 2, which is provided opposite the first surface 3 (compare, for example, with the illustrations in Figure 3 and Figure 4).

[0115] Each of the passages 5 is designed so that a battery cell 22 (not shown in Figure 1) can be inserted at least partially into the corresponding passage 5. Regarding the insertion process of a battery cell 22 into the base body 2, in particular into a passage 5 of the base body 2, reference is made to the illustrations in Figures 3 and 4 and to the corresponding description below.

[0116] In each of the passages 5, three projections 10 are arranged. Each projection 10 extends radially inwards from the inner surface 6 of the corresponding passage 5, i.e., into the space formed by the corresponding passage 5. This reduces the cross-section or cross-sectional area of ​​the passage 5 by each projection 10, at least sectionally. Each projection 10 is flexible, in particular spring-elastic.

[0117] The projections 10 are evenly distributed around the circumference of the corresponding passage 5. This means that the three projections 10 of a passage 5 are provided at 120° intervals around the circumference.

[0118] Each of the projections 10 comprises a centering section 14 and a fixing section 15. For the sake of clarity, Figure 1 does not reference all centering sections 14 and fixing sections 15 of the respective projections 10. The centering section 14 and the fixing section 15 of a projection 10 are arranged side by side, and in particular directly adjacent to each other, in the longitudinal direction of the corresponding passage 5. This allows the centering section 14 of a projection 10 to transition into the fixing section 15 of the same projection 10.

[0119] In the first embodiment, the centering sections 14 of the projections 10 are essentially semi-conical. On the side facing the corresponding passage 5, the centering sections 14 have a convex surface, at least in sections. When a battery cell 22 is inserted into the corresponding passage 5, the centering sections 14 of the projections 10 of a passage 5 ensure that the battery cell 22 is centered with respect to the central axis of the passage 5. Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0120] In the first embodiment, the fixing sections 15 of the projections 10 are essentially rib-shaped. On the side facing the corresponding passage 5, the fixing sections 15 have at least a partially convex surface. The fixing sections 15 of the projections 10 of a passage 5 ensure that a battery cell 22 inserted into the corresponding passage 5 is held or fixed within the passage 5.

[0121] Each of the projections 10 also has a transition section 16. The transition sections 16 comprise an essentially concave structure extending from the inner surface 6 of the corresponding passage 5 to the centering section 14 and / or fixing section 15 of the corresponding projection 10.

[0122] The battery cell holder 1 according to the first embodiment, in particular the base body 2 of the battery cell holder 1, has several stop elements 9. The stop elements 9 are provided at one longitudinal end of each passage 5. Three stop elements 9 are assigned to each passage 5.

[0123] The stop elements 9 are arranged offset from the projections 10 of the same passage 5, in particular offset in the circumferential direction of the same passage 5. Independently of this, the stop elements 9 are arranged evenly distributed around the circumference of the corresponding passage 5. That is to say, the three stop elements 9 of a passage 5 are provided at 120° intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0124] Regarding the functionality of the stop bodies 9, reference is made to the illustrations in Figures 3 and 4 and to the corresponding description below.

[0125] The battery cell holder 1 according to the first embodiment is a one-piece component, in particular an injection-molded component, which can be manufactured in a single injection molding process. In other words, the projections 10 and the stop elements 9 are integrally formed with the base body 2.

[0126] The base body 2 has a material recess 7 between each of the passages 5. The material recess 7 is essentially in the form of a prism, in particular a triangular prism. Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0127] Figure 2 shows a top view of the upper surface 3 of the first embodiment of the battery cell holder 1. For the sake of clarity, not all projections 10 and stop elements 9 have been labeled in Figure 2. Reference is made to the illustration in Figure 1 in this regard.

[0128] The dashed line in the central passage 5 represents the virtual outer circumference of a battery cell 22 that could be inserted into the passage 5. The diameter of the passage 5 is larger than the diameter of the battery cell 22. However, the cross-section of the passage 5 is reduced by the flexible, in particular spring-elastic, projections 10 such that the battery cell 22 is centered by the projections 10 when inserted into the passage 5. After insertion into the passage 5, the battery cell 22 is fixed or held in place by the projections 10 within the passage 5.

[0129] As shown in Figure 2, the passages 5 are arranged in rows. Passages 5.1a and 5.1b form a first row. Passages 5.2a, 5.2b, and 5.2c form a second row. The rows are arranged parallel to each other, with passages 5.1a and 5.1b of the first row offset from passages 5.2a, 5.2b, and 5.2c. This allows for a particularly space-saving and stable arrangement of the passages 5 within the base structure. The offset of the rows also results in two adjacent passages 5.1a and 5.1b of the same row, together with a passage 5.2b of the adjacent row, forming a triangular arrangement. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, this means, for example, that the centers of passages 5.1a, 5.1b of the first row together with the center of passage 5.2b of the second row form the vertices of an imaginary triangle, in particular an imaginary isosceles triangle.

[0130] Figure 3 shows a sectional view of the first embodiment according to section AA shown in Figure 2. Figure 3 illustrates the insertion process of a battery cell 22 into the battery cell holder 1, in particular into a passage 5 of the battery cell holder 1.

[0131] When the battery cell 22 is inserted into the passage 5 of the battery cell holder 1 in the insertion direction R, the battery cell 22 is first centered by the centering sections 14 with respect to the central axis of the passage 5. The battery cell 22 can be inserted into the passage 5 until it abuts the stop elements 9 (Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO). The stop elements thus limit the insertion of the battery cell 22 into the passage 5.

[0132] As also shown in Figure 3, the projections 10 are designed as hollow bodies open at one end. In particular, it can be seen on the right side of the base body 2 shown in Figure 3 that the projection 10 forms a cavity 11. This is due to the fact that the corresponding projection 10 has a concave surface on the side facing away from the passage 5, and the cavity 11 is created by this shape.

[0133] The cavity 11 is open towards the material recess 7. This creates the one-sided opening of the hollow body. The one-sided opening of the hollow body has the advantage that the elasticity of the projection 10 is structurally enhanced and the lack of material results in an additional weight reduction.

[0134] An additional weight reduction can be achieved by a further material recess 7 in the base body 2. This is shown, for example, on the left side of the base body 2 in Figure 3. The additional material recess 7 on the left extends from the bottom 4 towards the top 3, but unlike the material recess 7 shown on the right, it is not continuous.

[0135] Figure 4 shows the state in which the battery cell 22 is inserted into the battery cell holder 1. The battery cell 22 pushes or displaces, in particular, the fixing section 15 of the projection 10 towards the material recess. This means that the flexible projection 10 undergoes a change in shape due to the displacement by the battery cell 22. This change in shape causes the projection 10, and in particular the fixing section 15 of the projection 10, to exert a spring-like restoring force on the battery cell 22. This restoring force fixes the battery cell 22 in the battery cell holder 1. Preferably, the restoring force acts radially inwards with respect to the passage 5.

[0136] For clarity, Figure 5 shows a top view of the underside 4 of the base body 2 of the first embodiment of the battery cell holder 1. In the representation shown in Figure 5, no battery cell 22 is inserted into the battery cell holder 1. For reference to the reference numerals and the structure, please refer to the above descriptions. Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025

[0137] BT23003-WO

[0138] Figure 6 shows a schematic sectional view of a second embodiment of a battery cell holder 100. Analogous to the first embodiment, the battery cell holder 100 of the second embodiment comprises a base body 102 with a first surface 103, in particular a top surface 103, a second surface 104 opposite and facing away from the first surface 103, in particular a bottom surface 104, and with several passages 105.

[0139] In each of the passages 105, three flexible, in particular spring-elastic, projections 110 are arranged, analogous to the first embodiment. In contrast to the first embodiment, the projections 110 are designed as spreading bodies 110, which are spread into the corresponding passage 105. The spreading bodies 110 have a connecting section 111, via which the spreading bodies 110 are connected to the base body 102. The connecting section 111 can functionally be designed as a centering section.

[0140] When a battery cell 22 is inserted into the passage 105 in the insertion direction R, the battery cell 22 is centered by the connecting sections 111 of the spreading bodies 110 with respect to the central axis of the corresponding passage 105. At the same time, the battery cell 22 springs the spreading body 110 towards the inner surface 106 of the corresponding passage 105.

[0141] Figure 7 shows the state in which the battery cell 22 is inserted into the passage 105 and springs the spreading body 110 towards the inner surface 106 of the corresponding passage 105.

[0142] Figure 8 shows a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a battery module 20.

[0143] The battery module 20 comprises a housing 21 in which two battery cell holders 1 according to the first embodiment are provided. Several battery cells 22 are arranged between the battery cell holders 1.

[0144] Each of the battery cells 22 is inserted section by section, with one longitudinal end of each cell, into a passage of the corresponding battery cell holder 1. This secures the battery cells 22 in the battery module 20. Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0145] The voids in the housing 21, in particular the spaces between the battery cells 22, are filled with a potting compound 23. The potting compound 23 not only increases the shock and vibration resilience of the battery module 20, but also thermally insulates the individual battery cells 22 from one another. Figure 9 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of an aircraft 30. The aircraft 30 is designed as an eVTOL aircraft 30.

[0146] The aircraft 30 comprises several lift- and / or thrust-generating propulsion devices 31, in particular several propellers 31. Each of the propulsion devices 31 is driven by an electric motor 32. When the electric motors 32 drive the propulsion devices 31, the propulsion devices 31 rotate such that each of the

[0147] Propulsion devices 31 provide lift and / or (depending on the angle of attack of the aircraft 30) thrust for the aircraft 30.

[0148] The aircraft 30 also has a battery module 20 according to the aforementioned embodiment. During flight, the battery module 20 is electrically connected to the electric motors 32 in order to supply the electric motors 32 with electrical energy.

[0149] Volocopter Technologies GmbH September 15, 2025 BT23003-WO

[0150] Reference symbol list

[0151] 1 Battery cell holder (1st embodiment)

[0152] 2 basic shapes

[0153] 3 first surface / top

[0154] 4 second surface / underside

[0155] 5th round

[0156] 5.1a first pass of the first row

[0157] 5.1b second pass of the first row

[0158] 5.2a first pass of the second row

[0159] 5.2b second pass of the second row

[0160] 5.2c third pass of the second row

[0161] 6 Inner surface area of ​​a passage

[0162] 7 Material removal

[0163] 8 Reinforcing element / reinforcing structure

[0164] 9 stop bodies

[0165] 10 lead

[0166] 11 Cavity

[0167] 12

[0168] 13

[0169] 14 Centering section

[0170] 15 Fixing section

[0171] 16 Transition section

[0172] 20 battery modules

[0173] 21 cases

[0174] 22 battery cells

[0175] 23 Potting compound

[0176] 30 aircraft

[0177] 31 Drive device / Propeller

[0178] 32 Electric motor Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO

[0179] 100 battery cell holders (2nd embodiment)

[0180] 102 Basic bodies

[0181] 103 First surface / Top side 104 Second surface / Bottom side

[0182] 105th pass

[0183] 106 Inner surface area of ​​a passage

[0184] 110 projection (spreading body)

[0185] 111 Connecting section

[0186] R insertion direction

Claims

Volocopter Technologies GmbH September 15, 2025 BT23003-WO Claims 1. Battery cell holder (1) for fixing several battery cells (22) in a battery module (20) for an aircraft (30), comprising battery cell holder (1): (a) a basic body (2) with multiple passages (5), wherein (b) each of the passages (5) is designed such that a battery cell (22) can be inserted at least section by section into the corresponding passage (5) in an insertion direction (R), and (c) in each of the passages (5) several, preferably three, projections (10) are arranged which narrow the cross-section of the respective passage (5) in the insertion direction (R) of the corresponding battery cell (22) at least section by section, wherein (d) each of the multiple projections (10) is designed to be flexible, preferably spring-elastic, and (e) each of the projections (10) has a semi-conical centering section (14) to center the corresponding battery cell (22) when inserted into the respective passage (5), (f) each of the projections (10) has a fixing section (15) adjoining the centering section (14) in the insertion direction (R) in order to fix the corresponding battery cell (22) after insertion into the respective passage (5), and (g) each of the projections (10) has a transition section (16) with a concave surface facing the corresponding passage (5), the transition section (16) forming a structural transition from an inner surface (6) of the passage (5) to the fixing section (15).

2. Battery cell holder (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one, preferably each of the projections (10) is designed as a hollow body, preferably as a hollow body open on one side.

3. Battery cell holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the projections (10) have a concave surface on a side facing away from the corresponding passage (5) and / or on a side facing Volocopter Technologies GmbH 15.09.2025 BT23003-WO corresponding passage (5) have a convexly shaped surface on the side facing it.

4. Battery cell holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body has a material recess (7) between three passages (5) and the material recess (7) has essentially the shape of a prism, preferably a triangular prism or a square prism.

5. Battery cell holder (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the material recess (7) extends in the insertion direction (R) over a part of the thickness of the base body (2).

6. Battery cell holder (1) according to one of claims 4 or 5, characterized in that a reinforcement structure (8) is arranged in the material recess (7).

7. Battery cell holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one stop element (9) is arranged at each passage (5), and the stop element (9) is designed to limit the insertion of a battery cell (22) into the corresponding passage (5).

8. Battery cell holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (2) has a material recess (7) between three passages (5), and that at least one projection (10) per passage (5) is arranged in the area of ​​the material recess (7).

9. Battery cell holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the passages (5) has three projections (10) and the projections (10) are arranged evenly distributed over the circumference of the corresponding passage (5), preferably every 120° in the circumferential direction of the corresponding passage (5).

10. Battery module (20) for an aircraft (30), comprising the battery module (20): Volocopter Technologies GmbH September 15, 2025 BT23003-WO (a) a housing (21) in which a battery cell holder (1) according to one of the preceding claims is arranged, and (b) several battery cells (22), wherein each of the several battery cells (22) is inserted at least sectionally into one of the passages (5) of the battery cell holder (1), so that the battery cells (22) are spaced apart from each other in the battery cell holder (1).

11. Battery module (20) according to claim 10, characterized in that the battery module (20) has a first battery cell holder (1) and a second battery cell holder (1), wherein the first battery cell holder (1) is arranged at a first longitudinal end of the battery cells (20) and the second battery cell holder (1) is arranged at a second longitudinal end of the battery cells (22) opposite the first longitudinal end.

12. Aircraft (30), preferably eVTOL aircraft (30), with (a) a battery module (20), preferably several battery modules (20), according to one of claims 10 or 11, (b) several lift- and / or thrust-generating propulsion devices (31), preferably several propellers (31), wherein (c) each of the drive devices (31) is driven by an electric motor (32), and (d) the battery module (20) is designed to supply the electric motors (32) with electrical energy.

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