The present invention relates to an electrochemical energy converter device, in the following also called a converter cell, with a cell housing, a battery with at least two of these electrochemical energy converter devices and also a method for producing an electrochemical energy converter device. The invention is described in connection with lithium-ion batteries for supplying automotive drives. It is pointed out that the invention can also be used independently of the chemistry of the converter cell, independently of the design of the battery or independently of the type of the drive supplied.
Batteries with a plurality of converter cells for supplying automotive drives are known from the prior art. Conventional converter cells have an electrode assembly with at least two electrodes of different polarity and a separator. The separator separates or spaces the electrodes of different polarity. Further, conventional converter cells have a cell housing, which encompasses the electrode assembly at least in certain areas. Further, conventional converter cells have at least two current conduction devices which are each electrically connected to an electrode of the electrode assembly.
The high outlay for producing some designs of converter cells is sometimes found to be problematic.
It is an object of the invention to provide a converter cell which can be produced with low outlay or costs.
The object is achieved by means of an electrochemical energy converter device according to claim 1. Claim 14 describes a battery with at least two electrochemical energy converter devices according to the invention. The object is also achieved by means of a production method for an electrochemical energy converter device according to claim 15. Developments of the invention which are to be preferred are the subject of the subclaims.
An electrochemical energy converter device according to the invention, in the following also called a converter cell, has at least one in particular rechargeable electrode assembly. The at least one electrode assembly is provided to provide electrical energy at least intermittently to a consumer in particular. The electrode assembly has at least two electrodes of different polarity. The converter cell has one, two or a plurality of current conduction devices, wherein at least one or a plurality of these current conduction devices are provided to be electrically, preferably materially, connected to one of the electrodes of the electrode assembly. The converter cell has a cell housing with at least one in particular first housing part, wherein the cell housing is provided to encompass the electrode assembly at least in certain areas. The first housing part has at least one functional device which is provided to support the release of energy from the electrode assembly, in particular to a consumer. The functional device is operatively connected to the electrode assembly, in particular for the absorption of energy. The first housing part has at least one first support element, which is provided to delimit the at least one functional device with respect to the surroundings of the converter cell. The first support element is used in particular to support the at least one functional device, i.e. in particular to counteract an undesired relative displacement of the at least one functional device with respect to the converter cell. The first support element is used in particular to protect the at least one functional device from damaging influences from the surroundings.
Preferably, the at least one electrode assembly is provided to convert chemical energy into electrical energy at least intermittently. Preferably, the at least one electrode assembly is provided to convert supplied electrical energy in particular into chemical energy at least intermittently.
In the case of construction according to the invention of the first housing part, the functional device assumes a plurality of functions in particular relating to the operation of the converter cell or the electrode assembly, which are fulfilled in known designs of converter cells by means of discrete components. A plurality of discrete components or functional elements are combined in the at least one functional device in particular as a separate functional assembly. Thus, fewer modules are required for producing the converter cell according to the invention, as a result of which the outlay during production or assembly is reduced. Thus, the fundamental object is achieved.
Further, the converter cell according to the invention offers the advantage of increased durability, in that the first support element protects the functional device lying therebelow from mechanical damage, in particular due to a foreign body acting on the cell housing. Further, the converter cell according to the invention offers the advantage of increased durability, in that the first support element improves the cohesion of the functional device, in particular in the case of accelerations or vibrations during the operation of the converter cell.
In the sense of the invention, an electrode assembly is understood as meaning a device which is used in particular for providing electrical energy.
The electrode assembly has at least two electrodes of different polarity. These electrodes of different polarity are spaced by means of a separator, wherein the separator is conductive for ions, but not for electrons. Preferably, the electrode assembly is essentially constructed to be cuboidal. Preferably, the electrode assembly is in particular materially connected to two of these current conduction devices of different polarity which are used at least indirectly for electrical connection to at least one adjacent electrode assembly and/or at least indirectly for electrical connection to the consumer.
Preferably, at least one of these electrodes has an in particular metallic collector film and also an active material. The active material is applied onto the collector film at least on one side. When charging or discharging the electrode assembly, electrons are exchanged between the collector film and active material. Preferably, at least one contact lug is in particular materially connected to the collector film. Particularly preferably, a plurality of contact lugs are in particular materially connected to the collector film. This configuration offers the advantage that the current per contact lug is reduced.
Preferably, at least one of these electrodes has an in particular metallic collector film and also two active materials of different polarity which are arranged on various surfaces of the collector film and are spaced by means of the collector film. The term “bi-cell” is also customary for this arrangement of active materials. When charging or discharging the electrode assembly, electrons are exchanged between the collector film and active material. Preferably, at least one contact lug is in particular materially connected to the collector film. Particularly preferably, a plurality of contact lugs are in particular materially connected to the collector film. This configuration offers the advantage that the number of electrons which flow through a contact lug per unit time is reduced.
Two electrodes of different polarity are spaced in the electrode assembly by means of a separator. The separator is permeable for ions but not for electrons. Preferably, the separator contains at least one part of the electrolyte or the conductive salt. Preferably, the electrolyte is essentially formed without a liquid portion in particular after the closure of the converter cell. Preferably, the conductive salt contains lithium. Particularly preferably, lithium ions are embedded or intercalated into the negative electrode during charging and released again during discharging.
Electrode assembly is preferably configured to convert supplied electrical energy into chemical energy and to store the same as chemical energy. The electrode assembly is preferably configured to convert stored chemical energy in particular into electrical energy before the electrode assembly supplies this electrical energy to a consumer. One then also speaks of a rechargeable electrode assembly. Particularly preferably, lithium ions are embedded or intercalated into the negative electrode during charging and released again during discharging.
According to a first preferred configuration, the electrode assembly is constructed as an electrode winding, in particular as an essentially cylindrical electrode winding. Preferably, this electrode assembly is rechargeable. This configuration offers the advantage of simple producibility, in particular in that strip-shaped electrodes can be processed. This configuration offers the advantage that the nominal charging capacity, for example specified in ampere hours [Ah] or watt hours [Wh], less often in coulombs [C], can be increased in a simple manner by means of further windings. Preferably, the electrode assembly is constructed as a flat electrode winding. This configuration offers the advantage that the same can be arranged in a space-saving manner next to a further flat electrode winding in particular within a battery.
According to a further preferred configuration, the electrode assembly is constructed as an essentially cuboidal electrode stack. Preferably, this electrode assembly is rechargeable. The electrode stack has a predetermined sequence of stack sheets, wherein each pair of electrode sheets of different polarity are separated by a separator sheet. Preferably, each electrode sheet is in particular materially connected to a current conduction device, particularly preferably constructed integrally with the current conduction device. Preferably, electrode sheets of the same polarity are in particular electrically connected to one another via a common current conduction device. This configuration of the electrode assembly offers the advantage that the nominal charging capacity, for example specified in ampere hours [Ah] or watt hours [Wh], less often in coulombs [C], can be increased in a simple manner by adding further electrode sheets. Particularly preferably, at least two separator sheets are connected to one another and encompass a delimiting edge of an electrode sheet. An electrode assembly of this type with a separate, in particular meandering separator is described in WO 2011/020545. This configuration offers the advantage that a parasitic current originating from this delimiting edge to an electrode sheet of a different polarity is counteracted.
According to a third preferred configuration, the electrode assembly is constructed to supply electrical energy with absorption of at least one continually supplied fuel and an oxidising agent, called process fluids in the following, the chemical reaction thereof to form an educt, in particular supported by at least one catalyst, and emitting the educt. In the following, the electrode assembly according to this preferred configuration is also called the converter assembly. The converter assembly is constructed as an essentially cuboidal electrode stack and has at least two in particular sheet-like electrodes of different polarity. Preferably, at least the first electrode is coated at least in certain areas with a catalyst. The electrodes are spaced, preferably by means of a separator or a membrane, which is permeable for ions, but not for electrons. Further, the energy converter has two fluid-conveying devices which are in each case arranged adjacently to the electrodes of different polarity and provided to supply the process fluids to the electrodes. Preferably, at least one of the fluid-conveying devices is provided to drain the educt. The converter assembly has at least one of the following sequences: fluid-conveying device for the fuel—electrode of first polarity—membrane—electrode of second polarity—fluid-conveying device for the oxidising agent, in particular also for the educt. Preferably, a plurality of these sequences are electrically connected in series for increased electric voltage. During the operation of the energy converter, the fuel of the first electrode is supplied in particular as a fluid flow through channels of the first fluid-conveying device. At the first electrode the fuel is ionised with the release of electrons. The electrons are carried away via the first electrode, in particular via one of the current conduction devices, in particular in the direction of an electrical consumer or an adjacent converter cell. The ionised fuel migrates through the membrane which is permeable for ions to the second electrode. The oxidising agent is supplied to the second electrode, in particular as a fluid flow through channels of the second fluid-conveying device. At the second electrode coincide: the oxidising agent, the ionised fuel and also electrons from the first electrical consumer or an adjacent converter cell. The chemical reaction to form the educt, which is preferably conveyed away through channels of the second fluid-conveying device, takes place at the second electrode.
In the sense of the invention, a current conduction device is to be understood as meaning a device which is in particular used for the conduction of electrons between one of the electrodes of the electrode assembly and a consumer or between one of the electrodes and an adjacent converter cell. To this end, the current conduction device is electrically, preferably materially connected to one of the electrodes of the electrode assembly. Preferably, the current conduction device is at least indirectly connected to a consumer which is to be supplied.
The current conduction device has an electrically conductive region with a metallic material, preferably aluminium and/or copper, particularly preferably a coating with nickel in certain areas. This configuration offers the advantage of reduced contact resistance. Preferably, the current conduction device is constructed solidly using a metallic material. Preferably, the material of the current conduction device corresponds to the material of the collector film of the electrode, to which the current conduction device is in particular materially connected. This configuration offers the advantage of reduced contact corrosion between current conduction device and collector film.
The current conduction device has a second region which is arranged inside the converter cell. The second region is electrically, preferably materially connected to at least one electrode of the electrode assembly, preferably to all electrodes of the same polarity.
Preferably, the second region has at least one contact lug. The contact lug is in particular materially connected to one of the electrodes of the electrode assembly, in particular to the collector film thereof. The contact lug is constructed as an electrically conductive strip, preferably as a metal film. This configuration offers the advantage that an offset between a plane of symmetry through the region of the current conduction device which extends into the surroundings of the converter cell and a plane through this electrode or collector film can be compensated. Particularly preferably, the second region has a plurality of contact lugs. The contact lugs offer a plurality of current paths to the same electrode, as a result of which the current density is advantageously reduced, or to various electrodes of the same polarity of the electrode stack, as a result of which a parallel connection of the electrodes of the same polarity is formed.
Preferably, the current conduction device also has a first region which extends into the surroundings of the converter cell. The first region is electrically at least indirectly connected to one of the consumers to be supplied or to a second, in particular adjacent converter cell, in particular via a connection device, preferably via a contact rail, flexible connector or a connection cable. According to a preferred configuration, the first region is constructed as a metal plate or as a plate with a metallic coating. This configuration offers the advantage that a mechanically stable, essentially flat surface is present for an electrical connection to a connection device which is simple and/or as durable as possible.
Preferably, the current conduction device has an essentially plate-shaped, metallic or metal-coated current conductor. In the second region of the current conduction device, the current conductor is in particular materially connected to in particular all contact lugs of the same polarity. Preferably, the material of the current conductor corresponds to the material of the contact lug. This configuration offers the advantage that the current conductor can be constructed in a more mechanically stable manner for connection to a connection device and or one of the housing parts than a film-like contact lug could be constructed. Thus, the durability of the converter cell is improved. Further, this configuration offers the advantage that the current conductor can be connected to the cell housing before the electrode assembly with contact lugs fastened thereon is supplied to the cell housing.
According to a preferred embodiment, the current conductor extends out of the cell housing also into the first region of the current conduction device or into the surroundings of the converter cell and is in particular constructed as a metal plate, stamped part and/or sheet-metal pressed part. This configuration offers the advantage of reduced production costs. This configuration offers the further advantage that the current conduction device is constructed in a satisfactorily mechanically stable manner for connection to a connection device not belonging to the converter cell, for example a contact rail, flexible connector or power cable.
According to a further preferred embodiment, the current conductor is constructed with a contact surface. This contact surface is essentially arranged in a peripheral surface of one of these housing parts or extends only insignificantly into the surroundings. Preferably, the contact surface is provided for electrical connection to a spring-loaded connection device. This configuration offers the advantage that the contact surface can be covered with an insulating adhesive strip for transporting or storage of the converter cell.
In the sense of the invention, a cell housing is understood as meaning an apparatus which in particular
The cell housing surrounds the electrode assembly at least in certain areas, preferably essentially completely. In this case, the cell housing is adapted to the shape of the electrode assembly. Preferably, the cell housing, just like the electrode assembly is essentially constructed to be cuboidal. The cell housing surrounds the electrode assembly preferably in such a manner that at least one wall of the cell housing exerts a force onto the electrode assembly, wherein the force counteracts an undesired relative movement of the electrode assembly with respect to the cell housing. Particularly preferably, the cell housing accommodates the electrode assembly in a positive-fitting and/or force-fitting manner. Preferably, the cell housing is electrically insulated with respect to the surroundings. Preferably, the cell housing is electrically insulated with respect to the electrode assembly.
The cell housing is constructed with at least one essentially flexurally stiff first housing part. The first housing part has at least one functional device which supports the release of energy from the electrode assembly, in particular to a consumer. The first housing part has a first support element, which supports the at least one functional device with respect to the surroundings of the converter cell. In particular, the first housing part is used for delimiting the electrode assembly with respect to the surroundings of the converter cell and also for protecting the electrode assembly. In particular, the first housing part is used for protecting the electrode assembly. Preferably, the first housing part has a wall thickness of at least 0.3 mm. Preferably, the material and the geometry of the first housing part are chosen in such a manner that the flexural stiffness thereof withstands the stresses of operation.
In the sense of the invention, a functional device is to be understood to mean a device which is in particular used to support a flawless operation of the electrode assembly. The functional device is operatively connected to the electrode assembly.
In the sense of the invention, operatively-connected functional device and electrode assembly is in particular to be understood to mean that energy, materials and/or information relating to operating parameters of the electrode assembly in particular can be exchanged between the functional device and electrode assembly. In the sense of the invention, operatively-connected functional device and electrode assembly is in particular also to be understood to mean that the functional device has the electric potential of one of the electrodes of the electrode assembly.
Preferably, the at least one functional device has at least one electrically conductive region. Preferably, the at least one functional device has at least one electrically insulating region which is particularly preferably used as a support for functional elements. The functional device is preferably in particular materially connected to the first support element. With respect to the surroundings, the functional device is essentially covered by the first support element completely as long as the first support element does not have a pole contact recess.
Preferably, the functional device is electrically connected to at least one of the electrodes, particularly preferably to at least two electrodes of different polarity. This configuration offers the advantage that the functional device has the electric potential of the connected electrode and in particular can be supplied with energy by the electrode assembly.
Preferably, the functional device is constructed as a diffusion barrier, by means of which an exchange of a gas between the surroundings of the converter cell and the interior of the cell housing is counteracted.
Preferably, the functional device is constructed as a populated and/or printed, in particular flexible circuit board. This configuration offers the advantage that the circuit board is protected by the first support element. This configuration offers the advantage that the circuit board remains on the converter cell when the converter cell is removed from a battery.
Preferably, the functional device is constructed as flame protection or fire protection. To this end, the functional device has one of these chemically reactive, flame-retardant materials and is preferably constructed as a layer or ply and is in particular constructed such that it essentially covers the adjacent electrode assembly completely. This configuration offers the advantage that the operational safety of the converter cell in the case of a fire in the region thereof is improved.
In the sense of the invention, a first support element is to be understood to mean a device which is provided to support the at least one functional device at least in certain areas. The first support element faces the surroundings of the converter cell. In the sense of the invention, “support” is to be understood to mean that an undesired relative movement of the at least one functional device with respect to the first support element or the converter cell is counteracted. The first support element is in particular used to counteract an undesired relative displacement of the at least one functional device with respect to the first support element or the converter cell. The first support element is used in particular to protect the at least one functional device from damaging influences from the surroundings of the converter cell in particular. Thus, this construction offers the advantage of protecting the electrode assembly from a foreign body acting on or even penetrating the cell housing, particularly without separate protecting devices being required.
The first support element has an in particular fibre-permeated first polymer material, preferably a thermoplastic. Preferably, the softening temperature of the polymer material is greater than the operating temperature range of the converter cell, particularly preferably by at least 10 K. Preferably, the first support element has a fibre material, in particular glass fibres, carbon fibres, basalt fibres, aramid fibres, Kevlar fibres and/or Nomex fibres, wherein the fibre material is in particular used for reinforcing the first support element. Particularly preferably, the fibre material is in particular constructed in a textile-like manner as a non-woven fabric or woven fabric and essentially surrounded by the first polymer material completely.
Preferably the at least one functional device is preferably in particular materially connected to the first support element.
Preferably, the first support element is constructed as the first support layer. This configuration offers the advantage that the at least one functional device can be supported along a relatively large area by the first support element, as a result of which the integrity of the at least one functional device is improved in particular.
Preferably, the first support element has one or two pole contact recesses, which each make a region of the adjacent functional device in particular electrically accessible from the surroundings of the converter cell.
Advantageous configurations and preferred embodiments of the converter cell according to the invention and also the advantages thereof are described in the following.
Preferably, the converter cell according to the invention has at least two electrode assemblies which are connected in series in the cell housing. This configuration offers the advantage that the nominal voltage of the converter cell is increased.
Preferably, the at least one functional device has at least one or a plurality of functional elements.
In the sense of the invention, a functional element is to be understood to mean an element which is in particular used to support a flawless operation of the electrode assembly. The functional element is used in particular
Preferably, at least one or a plurality of these functional elements is constructed as
Preferably, the first short-range radio device is provided to intermittently transmit a predetermined second signal, in particular on request or upon a predetermined first signal from a second short-range radio device, wherein the second short-range radio device is signal-connected to a battery control. Particularly preferably, the first short-range radio device is provided to transmit an identification for the converter cell at the same time as the predetermined second signal.
Preferably, a plurality of functional elements act together for a flawless operation of the electrode assembly. Particularly preferably, these functional elements are electrically connected to one another.
A first preferred configuration of the functional device has as functional elements at least:
This preferred configuration of the functional device offers the advantage that the functional device can be used for controlling or monitoring the electrode assembly. This configuration offers the advantage that the functional device remains on the converter cell when the converter cell is removed from a battery.
According to a first preferred development of this preferred configuration, the functional device is constructed with a circuit board which is populated with these functional elements and which has conductor tracks for connecting the remaining functional elements. This preferred development offers the advantage that during the production of the first housing part, the circuit board can be supplied or placed onto this first support element with little outlay. This preferred development offers the advantage that the circuit board remains on the converter cell when the converter cell is removed from a battery.
According to a further preferred development of this preferred configuration, the functional device is constructed with a flexible film in particular made from polyimide or Kapton®, which is populated with these functional elements and which has conductor tracks for connecting the remaining functional elements. This preferred development offers the advantage that during the production of the first housing part, the functional device can be supplied or placed onto this first support element with little outlay. This preferred development offers the advantage that the functional device remains on the converter cell when the converter cell is removed from a battery.
Preferably, at least one or a plurality of these functional devices are
According to a first preferred embodiment, the expandable filler is formed by an organic aerogel with a three-dimensional structure of primary particles. These primary particles grow together without any order particularly during pyrolysis or intensive heat irradiation, wherein cavities arise between the particles. The diathermancy of the functional device is reduced by means of these cavities. This embodiment offers the advantage of an improved flame resistance of the first housing part.
According to a further preferred embodiment, the expanded filler is formed by means of expanded mica or vermiculite. Water of crystallisation is chemically bonded between the layers of the sheet structure thereof. Under the action of heat, the chemically bonded water is suddenly driven out, wherein the vermiculite is blown up to many times its volume.
Preferably, the chemically reactive filler acts in a flame-retardant manner, in particular by means of the formation of a protective layer or by interrupting a chain reaction with radicals. Preferably, the filler is selected from the following group, which includes: alum, borax, aluminium hydroxide, substances with MIMIII(SO4)2 and with water of crystallisation, whereby M represents a metal ion of the oxidation stage I or III, particularly preferably potassium aluminium sulphate. According to a first preferred embodiment, the functional device is constructed as an insert impregnated with the filler, particularly preferably as a cotton ply. According to a second preferred embodiment, the functional device is pressed from a powder of the filler. This preferred embodiment offers the advantage that the protection of the electrode assembly in the case of a fire in the surroundings of the converter cell is improved.
Preferably, the converter cell or the cell housing thereof has a second housing part.
In the sense of the invention, a second housing part is to be understood to mean a device which is in particular provided to be connected at least in certain areas to the first housing part. The second housing part is provided to form the cell housing of the converter cell with the first housing part. Preferably, the first housing part and the second housing part surround the electrode assembly essentially completely and in particular counteract an exchange of substances between the electrode assembly and the surroundings of the converter cell. The second housing part has at least one first support element which essentially corresponds to the first support element of the first housing part. Preferably, the second housing part has at least one of these functional devices. Particularly preferably, the second housing part is constructed essentially identically to the first housing part. This configuration offers the advantage that production costs and warehousing are reduced.
In a first preferred embodiment of the cell housing, the first housing part and the second housing part are connected to one another via a hinged region. The hinged region extends along one edge of the first housing part and of the second housing part in each case. Preferably, the hinged region has a lower wall thickness than the regions of the housing parts which delimit the electrode assembly. This embodiment offers the advantage that the length of the edges of the in particular cuboidal cell housing to be sealed is reduced.
In a second preferred embodiment of the cell housing, the first housing part and the second housing part are spaced by means of a frame. The housing parts are in particular materially connected to the frame. The frame essentially has four frame elements which are arranged in the manner of a rectangle with respect to one another. The frame delimits a space in which the electrode assembly can be accommodated. The converter cell without functional devices with a cell housing constructed with frame has also been termed as a flat-cell frame. Preferably, the frame is constructed with the second polymer material, particularly preferably essentially completely from the second polymer material. This preferred embodiment offers the advantage that the housing parts can each be constructed without an accommodation space. According to a preferred development, two of these current conduction devices extend through the frame at least to some extent into the surroundings. According to a further preferred development, at least one of these housing parts has one or two of these pole contact regions.
Preferably, the first housing part and/or the second housing part have an accommodation space which can accommodate the electrode assembly at least to some extent.
Preferably, this accommodation space is dimensioned in such a manner that following the closing of the housing parts around the electrode assembly to form the cell housing, a friction is present between at least one inner surface of the cell housing and a peripheral surface of the electrode assembly. This friction counteracts an undesired relative movement of cell housing and electrode assembly.
According to a preferred configuration, the accommodation spaces of the first housing part and the second housing part are constructed identically. In this preferred configuration, essentially half of the electrode assembly is accommodated by one housing part in each case. This configuration offers the advantage that production costs and warehousing are reduced.
According to a further preferred configuration, the first housing part essentially accommodates the electrode assembly completely. Preferably, the first housing part is constructed as a cup. The electrode assembly is arranged in the interior of the cup, wherein the interior corresponds to the accommodation space. At least one functional device is arranged in the multi-layered wall of the cup. In this preferred configuration, the second housing part is essentially constructed for closing the first housing part as a flat lid without accommodation space and/or without functional device. This configuration offers the advantage that the second housing part can be constructed in a more cost-effective manner. According to a preferred development, two of these current conduction devices extend through the wall of the cup or through the wall of the lid at least to some extent into the surroundings. According to a further preferred development, the lid and/or the cup have two of these pole contact regions.
Preferably, the first and/or the second housing part have a second support element which is arranged between at least one of these functional devices and the electrode assembly.
In the sense of the invention, a second support element is to be understood to mean a device which is provided to stiffen the housing part. Preferably, the second support element is arranged between the at least one functional device and the electrode assembly. Preferably, the second support element is constructed as a second support layer. The second support element has an in particular fibre-permeated first polymer material, preferably a thermoplastic. Preferably, the softening temperature is greater than the operating temperature range of the converter cell, particularly preferably by at least 10 K. Further, the second support element has a fibre material, preferably glass fibres, carbon fibres, basalt fibres, aramid fibres, Kevlar fibres and/or Nomex fibres, which is in particular used for stiffening the second support element. Preferably, the fibre material is in particular constructed in a textile-like manner as a non-woven fabric or woven fabric and particularly preferably essentially surrounded by the first polymer material completely. This configuration offers the further advantage that the second support element separates the at least one functional device from the substances of the electrode assembly.
Particularly preferably, the second support element is in particular materially connected to at least one functional device. This configuration offers the advantage that the second support layer additionally stiffens or mechanically stabilises the housing part.
Particularly preferably, second housing part is in particular materially constructed in a manner corresponding to the first support element. This configuration offers the advantage of reduced manufacturing costs.
Particularly preferably, the second support element is constructed to be thinner than the first support element and in particular without fibre material. This configuration offers the advantage that the time constant is reduced when detecting the temperature of the electrode assembly and/or the cell internal pressure.
Particularly preferably, the second support element has at least one recess which allows a sensor of the functional device direct contact with the electrode assembly for detecting a substance. This configuration offers the advantage that the presence of hydrogen fluoride, in the following also called HF, is possible with a lower time constant.
Particularly preferably, the second support element in particular has at least one contacting recess in an edge region of the housing part, which is in particular used for electrically connecting the functional device adjacent to the second support element to one of the current conduction devices of the converter cell. This configuration offers the advantage that the functional device has the electric potential of one of the electrodes of the electrode assembly. This configuration offers the further advantage that the functional device can be supplied with energy by the electrode assembly.
Preferably, the first and/or second housing part has a second polymer material in an edge region. The second polymer material is used in particular for material connection to one of the other housing parts, particularly preferably for material connection of the first housing part to the second housing part. Preferably, this softening temperature of the second polymer material is greater than the operating temperature range of the converter cell, particularly preferably by at least 10 K. This configuration offers the advantage that the permanent sealing of the interior of the cell housing is improved.
Particularly preferably, the second polymer material is constructed as a thermoplastic in particular with a softening temperature above the operating temperature range of the converter cell. This configuration offers the advantage of simplified feeding of the second polymer material into a processing device, particularly into a moulding tool. This configuration offers the further advantage of an intimate, in particular gas-tight connection of the second polymer material to the respective housing part.
Particularly preferably, the second polymer material encompasses an edge region of the first and/or second housing part. This configuration offers the advantage of an intimate, in particular gas-tight connection of the second polymer material to the respective housing part.
Particularly preferably, the second polymer material corresponds to the first polymer material. This configuration offers the advantage of an intimate, in particular gas-tight connection of the second polymer material to the first polymer material.
Preferably, the converter cell, in particular the cell housing thereof, has an essentially plate-shaped third housing part.
In the sense of the invention, a third housing part is to be understood to mean a device which is in particular provided to be connected at least in certain areas to the first housing part. The third housing part is provided to be in particular materially connected at least in certain areas to the first housing part and/or to form the cell housing of the converter cell with the first housing part. The third housing part has an increased thermal conductivity compared to the first housing part. This configuration shown offers the advantage that the third housing part contributes to improved heat dissipation from the electrode assembly.
Preferably, the third housing part has a metal, particularly preferably aluminium and/or copper. This configuration shown offers the advantage that the third housing part contributes to improved heat dissipation from the electrode assembly. This preferred embodiment further offers the advantage that the protection of the electrode assembly from damaging influences from the surroundings of the converter cell is improved.
Preferably, the third housing part has a first heat transfer region, which is provided to exchange heat energy with the electrode assembly. Particularly preferably, this heat transfer region has geometries for an enlarged surface, in particular elevations, pins, cones and/or ribs, which face the surroundings of the converter cell. This configuration shown offers the advantage that the third housing part contributes to improved heat dissipation from the electrode assembly.
Preferably, the third housing part has a second heat transfer region, which is provided to exchange heat energy with a temperature control device not belonging to the converter cell. Particularly preferably, the second heat transfer region is polished. This configuration offers the advantage that the surface for thermal contacting of the temperature control device is enlarged. This configuration shown offers the advantage that the third housing part contributes to improved heat dissipation from the electrode assembly.
Preferably, the surface of the third housing facing the electrode assembly or the first housing part is coated in an electrically insulating manner. This configuration offers the advantage that the third housing part does not have an electric potential of the electrode assembly.
Preferably, the third housing part has an electrode connection region and also a pole contact region. The electrode connection region and pole contact region are electrically connected to one another. This configuration offers the advantage that the electrode assembly can be electrically contacted via the third housing part. This configuration offers the further advantage that at least one of the current conduction devices can be constructed without a first region.
Preferably, at least one or two of these current conduction devices have at least one contacting region in each case. The contacting region is used in particular for electrically connecting at least one or a plurality of these functional devices, preferably electrically supplying at least one or a plurality of these functional devices. Preferably, at least one of these contacting regions has a metal, particularly preferably aluminium and/or copper.
Preferably, the contacting region is arranged in an edge region of the first housing part, in particular in the region of the second polymer material. Preferably, the second polymer material exposes the contacting region opposite at least one of these electrode connection regions. This configuration offers the advantage that the contacting region is held by the second polymer material essentially immovably with respect to the first housing part. This configuration offers the further advantage that the second polymer material protects the electrical connection of the contacting region to the electrode connection region of the functional device from chemical loading from the surroundings of the converter cell.
Preferably, the contacting region is constructed as a protrusion which extends in the direction of the functional device in particular through one of these contacting recesses. Particularly preferably, the contacting region is constructed as a projection. This configuration offers the advantage that the connection between the current conduction device and functional device is well-suited to automation.
Preferably, the connection between the contacting region and electrode connection region is constructed materially, particularly preferably by means of a friction welding or ultrasonic welding method. This configuration offers the advantage that the connection between the current conduction device and functional device is well-suited to automation.
Preferably, the at least one of these current conduction devices has a plurality of contact lugs particularly in the second region thereof. This plurality of contact lugs are preferably materially connected to the same electrode of the electrode assembly constructed as an electrode winding, or to a plurality of electrodes of the same polarity of the electrode assembly constructed as an electrode stack. In the interior of the cell housing, the contact lugs of the same polarity are in particular materially connected to the current conductor of the same current conduction device. This current conductor also extends into the first region outside of the cell housing. Preferably, the current conductor is in particular materially connected to the first housing part in particular in the edge region thereof. Particularly preferably, the current conductor extends through the second polymer material in the edge region of the first housing part. Thus in a first manufacturing step, the current conductor is connected to the first housing part materially and in particular in a gas-tight manner and in a subsequent manufacturing step, the contact lugs are materially in particular welded to the current conductor. This configuration offers the advantage that a heat energy contribution during the first manufacturing step with the absence of the electrode assembly, does not contribute to the heating or accelerated ageing thereof.
Preferably, the at least one functional device of the converter cell or of the first housing part is arranged between the first support element and the second support element and in particular materially connected in at least certain areas to the support elements.
Preferably, the first support element has at least one or two of these pole contact recesses which make one or two of these pole contact regions of the functional device in particular electrically accessible from the surroundings.
Preferably, the second support element has at least one or two of these contacting recesses which are arranged adjacently to one or two of these electrode connection regions of the functional device. This configuration offers the advantage that an exchange of electrons with the electrode assembly is also enabled without a first region of the current conduction device extending into the surroundings.
According to a preferred development of the first housing part, the first support element has two pole contact recesses, the functional device has two pole contact regions of different polarity, the second support element has two contacting recesses and the functional device has two electrode connection regions of different polarity. This development offers the advantage that the second or third housing part can be constructed without a pole contact region, as a result of which the associated production costs in particular are reduced.
Preferably, a temperature probe or thermocouple is integrated into the second region of the current conduction device, in particular in the current conductor thereof. The supply lines for the temperature probe or thermocouple end in the edge region of the first housing part in particular at two contact surfaces in the region of a recess in the second support element. Two connectors for the functional device are also arranged in the region of this recess, and electrically connected to the contact surfaces. This configuration offers the advantage that temperature measurement is enabled in the current conduction device.
Preferably, the converter cell has a housing assembly with the first housing part and with at least one or two of these current conduction devices of different polarity. This housing assembly is used in particular for the simplified manufacture of the converter cell. The first housing part has an in particular materially-connected layer composite with the first support element, the at least one functional device and the second support element. Further, the first housing part in particular has the second polymer material in the edge region. Preferably, an edge region of the first housing part is encompassed by the second polymer material at least in certain areas. Further, the first housing part has the accommodation space which is provided to accommodate the electrode assembly at least to some extent. The at least one of these current conduction devices, in particular the current conductor thereof, has this contacting region which is arranged in the edge region of the first housing part, preferably in the second polymer material. The second support element has at least one or two of these current conduction devices, at least one or two of these contacting recesses, in the contacting region. The contacting region is in particular electrically connected to the functional device, in particular to the electrode connection region thereof, through the contacting recess. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that the housing assembly can be prepared separately.
Only after the finishing of this housing assembly is the electrode assembly inserted in the accommodation space thereof. This preferred configuration offers the further advantage that heat energy contributions during the construction of the accommodation space, during the arrangement of the second polymer material on the first housing part and/or during the in particular material connection of current conduction device and first housing part during the manufacture of this housing assembly cannot lead to the heating or to the accelerated ageing of the electrode assembly.
Preferably, at least one of these functional devices, in particular of the first housing part, has this cell control device, at least one or two of these electrode connection regions and at least one or a plurality of these measuring probes. The at least one measuring probe is provided to detect an operating parameter of the converter cell, particularly of the electrode assembly thereof and to supply the same to the cell control device.
In the sense of the invention, an operating parameter is to be understood as meaning a parameter in particular of the converter cell, which in particular
The cell control device is provided to control at least one operating method of the converter cell, in particular the charging and/or discharging of the electrode assembly. Preferably, the cell control device monitors an operating state of the converter cell. Preferably, the cell control device starts the transition of the converter cell to a predetermined operating state. Preferably, the cell control device displays the state of the converter cell by means of a display device, in particular by means of at least one LED. The preferred configuration offers the advantage that the cell control device is arranged in a protected manner in the first housing part. This preferred configuration offers the further advantage that the converter cell has a separate cell control device for operating or for monitoring the electrode assembly, which also remains on the converter cell if the converter cell is removed from a battery.
Preferably, the cell control device is provided to start the transition of the converter cell to a “safe” state, wherein the charging of the converter cell in the safe state is at most half of the nominal charging capacity, wherein in particular in the safe state, the cell voltage is 3V maximum. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that the converter cell can also be transitioned to the safe state of the converter cell outside of a battery assembly.
According to a first preferred development, the functional device has a first short-range radio device, which is signal-connected to the cell control device. This first short-range radio device is used in particular for wirelessly communicating with a superordinate battery control, in particular with the second short-range radio device thereof. Preferably, the first short-range radio device is configured to transmit a predetermined signal to a superordinate battery control in particular periodically. This development offers the advantage that the battery control can include the supplied converter cell in the predetermined signal for supplying a consumer. This development offers the further advantage that the battery control can isolate a converter cell following an absence of the predetermined signal.
According to a further preferred development, the functional device has two cell control connectors and the first support element has two recesses in the region of these cell control connectors. The converter cell can be connected to a data line or a data bus by means of the cell control connectors. This preferred development offers the advantage that the cell control can communicate with the superordinate battery control by means of the two cell control connectors.
Preferably, the converter cell has a nominal charging capacity of at least 3 ampere hours [Ah], further preferably of at least 5 Ah, further preferably of at least 10 Ah, further preferably of at least 20 Ah, further preferably of at least 50 Ah, further preferably of at least 100 Ah, further preferably of at least 200 Ah, further preferably of at most 500 Ah. This configuration offers the advantage of an improved service life of the consumer supplied by the converter cell.
Preferably, the converter cell has a nominal current of at least 50 A, further preferably of at least 100 A, further preferably of the at least 200 A, further preferably of at least 500 A, further preferably of at most 1000 A. This configuration offers the advantage of an improved performance of the consumer supplied by the converter cell.
Preferably, the converter cell has a nominal voltage of at least 1.2 V, further preferably of at least 1.5 V, further preferably of at least 2 V, further preferably of at least 2.5 V, further preferably of at least 3 V, further preferably of at least 3.5 V, further preferably of at least 4 V, further preferably of at least 4.5 V, further preferably of at least 5 V, further preferably of at least 5.5 V, further preferably of at least 6 V, further preferably of at least 6.5 V, further preferably of at least 7 V, further preferably of at most 7.5 V. Preferably, the electrode assembly has lithium ions. This configuration offers the advantage of an improved energy density of the converter cell.
Preferably, the converter cell has an operating temperature range between −40° C. and 100° C., further preferably between −20° C. and 80° C., further preferably between −10° C. and 60° C., further preferably between 0° C. and 40° C. This configuration offers the advantage of an installation or use of the converter cell for supplying a consumer, in particular a motor vehicle or a stationary system or machine, which is as free of limitation as possible.
Preferably, the converter cell has a gravimetric energy density of at least 50 Wh/kg, further preferably of at least 100 Wh/kg, further preferably of at least 200 Wh/kg, further preferably of at least 500 Wh/kg. Preferably, the electrode assembly has lithium ions. This configuration offers the advantage of an improved energy density of the converter cell.
According to a preferred embodiment, the converter cell is provided for installation into a vehicle with at least one electric motor. Preferably, the converter cell is provided to supply this electric motor. Particular preferably, the converter cell is provided to supply an electric motor of a drivetrain of a hybrid or electric vehicle at least intermittently. This configuration offers the advantage of an improved supplying of the electric motor.
According to a further preferred embodiment, the converter cell is provided for use in a stationary battery, in particular in a buffer storage unit, as a device battery, industrial battery or starter battery. Preferably, the nominal charging capacity of the converter cell for these applications is at least 50 Ah. This configuration offers the advantage of an improved supplying of a stationary consumer, in particular of a stationary mounted electric motor.
According to a first preferred embodiment, the at least one separator, which is not or only poorly electron-conductive, consists of an at least somewhat material-permeable substrate. The substrate is preferably coated on at least one side with an inorganic material. Preferably an organic material, which is preferably configured as a non-woven fleece, is used as a substrate which is at least partially permeable to material. The organic material, which preferably contains a polymer and particularly preferably a polyethylene terephthalate (PET), is coated with an inorganic, preferably ion-conducting material which is further preferably ion-conducting in a temperature range from −40° C. to 200° C. The inorganic material preferably contains at least one compound from the group of oxides, phosphates, sulphates, titanates, silicates, aluminosilicates with at least one of the elements Zr, Al, Li, particularly preferably zirconium oxide. Zirconium oxide in particular is used for substance integrity, nanoporosity and flexibility of the separator. Preferably, the inorganic ion-conducting material has particles with a largest diameter below 100 nm. This embodiment offers the advantage that the durability of the electrode assembly at temperatures above 100° C. is improved. A separator of this type is sold in Germany by Evonik AG under the brand name “Separion”, for example.
According to a second preferred embodiment, the at least one separator, which is not or only poorly electron-conductive, but is conductive for ions, consists at least overwhelmingly or completely of a ceramic, preferably of an oxide ceramic. This embodiment offers the advantage that the durability of the electrode assembly at temperatures above 100° C. is improved.
A first preferred embodiment of the converter cell has a first and a second of these current conduction devices of different polarity and this cell housing on this electrode assembly. The electrode assembly is constructed as an in particular rechargeable flat electrode winding, in particular a rechargeable electrode stack or converter assembly with at least one electrode each of first and second polarity.
The current conduction devices have at least one or a plurality of these contacting lugs, wherein for each current conduction device, the at least one contact lug is electrically connected to the current conductor in the cell housing. The first current conduction device, in particular the contact lug thereof, is electrically connected to the electrode of first polarity. The second current conduction device, in particular the contact lug thereof, is electrically connected to the electrode of second polarity. Further, these current conduction devices each have one of these current conductors which preferably extend into the surroundings of the converter cell, in particular for simplified electrical connection to a connection device. The contact lugs and the current conductor of at least one of these current conduction devices are in particular materially connected.
The cell housing has the first housing part. The first housing part has the first support element, the second support element and at least one or a plurality of these functional devices in each case with at least one or a plurality of these functional elements. These support elements each have an in particular fibre-permeated first polymer material. The first support element delimits the at least one of these functional devices with respect to the surroundings of the converter cell. The second support element delimits the at least one of these functional devices with respect to the electrode assembly of the converter cell. The at least one functional device is arranged between the first and the second support element. The first support element, preferably also the second support element is in particular materially connected to at least one of these functional devices at least in certain areas. The second support element has one or two of these contacting recesses, as a result of which the adjacent functional device is exposed in certain areas with respect to the electrode assembly. In its edge region, the first housing part has the second polymer material which preferably encompasses the edge region of the first housing part. The current conductor at least of the first current conduction device is guided through the second polymer material. Preferably, the current conductor of the second current conduction device is guided through the second polymer material. Preferably, the second polymer material connects the edge region of the first housing part and the current conductor of the first current conduction device, preferably also the current conductor of the second current conduction device materially and/or in a gas-tight manner. Preferably, the first housing part has an accommodation space which accommodates the electrode assembly at least to some extent.
The at least one functional device is operatively connected, in particular electrically connected, to the electrode assembly. The at least one functional device has one, preferably two of these electrode connection regions which are used for electrically connecting to the electrode assembly. Both current conduction devices each have one of these contacting regions, wherein the contacting regions are used for electrically connecting to the at least one functional device, in particular via the electrode connection regions thereof. The first electrode connection region of the at least one functional device and the contacting region of the first current conduction device are electrically, preferably materially, connected to one another in particular in the region of the first contacting recess. Preferably, the second electrode connection region of the at least one functional device is electrically, preferably materially, connected to the contacting region of the second current conduction device in particular in the region of the second contacting recess. Preferably, the at least one functional device is constructed as a populated, in particular flexible circuit board. Particularly preferably, the functional device has this cell control device.
Further, the cell housing has a second housing part. The second housing part has at least the first support element with an in particular fibre-permeated first polymer material. Together with the first housing part, the second housing part forms the cell housing around the electrode assembly. Preferably, in an edge region, the second housing part has the second polymer material which particularly preferably encompasses the edge region of the second housing part. Preferably, the current conductor of the second current conduction device is guided through the second polymer material. Preferably, the second polymer material connects the edge region of the second housing part and the current conductor of the second current conduction device materially and/or in a gas-tight manner. Preferably, the second housing part has an accommodation space which accommodates the electrode assembly at least to some extent. Preferably, the cell housing encompasses the electrode assembly in such a manner that a friction between the cell housing and electrode assembly counteracts the undesired relative movement thereof.
This preferred embodiment offers the advantages that
According to a first preferred development of this preferred embodiment, the current conductor of the first current conduction device is guided through the second polymer material of the first housing part and the current conductor of the second current conduction device is guided through the second polymer material of the second housing part. This development offers the advantage that the production of the first and the second housing parts can take place with a few identical manufacturing steps, as a result of which the outlay in manufacturing is reduced.
According to a second preferred development of this preferred embodiment, both current conductors are guided through the second polymer material of the first housing part. Further, the accommodation space of the first housing part is dimensioned in such a manner that the electrode assembly finds space therein essentially completely. This configuration offers the advantage that the second housing part can essentially remain without an accommodation space, as a result of which the associated manufacturing outlay is reduced. This development offers the further advantage that following the insertion of the electrode assembly into the accommodation space, the electrical connections of contact lugs and current conductors can be produced in a simplified manner, in particular as a consequence of improved accessibility.
According to a third development of this preferred embodiment, the first housing part and the second housing part are connected to one another via a hinged region. The hinged region extends along one delimiting edge of the first housing part and of the second housing part in each case. Preferably, the hinged region has a lower wall thickness than the regions of the housing parts which delimit the electrode assembly. Particularly preferably, the hinged region is constructed as a film hinge. This configuration offers the advantage that the length of the edges of the cell housing to be sealed is reduced. This preferred development can be combined with the first or second preferred development.
According to a fourth development of this preferred embodiment, the first housing part and the second housing part are spaced by means of a frame. The housing parts are in particular materially connected to the frame. The frame essentially has four frame elements which are arranged in the manner of a rectangle with respect to one another. The frame delimits a space which is provided for accommodating the electrode assembly. Preferably, the frame is constructed with the second polymer material, particularly preferably essentially completely from the second polymer material. This preferred development offers the advantage that the housing parts can each be constructed without an accommodation space. According to a preferred development, two of these current conduction devices extends through the frame at least to some extent into the surroundings. According to a further preferred development, at least one of these housing parts has one or two of these pole contact regions.
A second preferred embodiment of the converter cell essentially corresponds to the first preferred embodiment, wherein the cell housing has the third housing part instead of the second housing part however.
The third housing part has an increased thermal conductivity compared to the first housing part. Preferably, the third housing part has a metal, particularly preferably aluminium and/or copper. Preferably, the third housing part is of plate-shaped construction. The third housing part has a first heat transfer region with which the electrode assembly is in thermal contact and with which the electrode assembly can exchange heat energy, in particular for cooling the electrode assembly if the temperature thereof lies above a permitted maximum temperature. Together with the first housing part, the second housing part forms the cell housing around the electrode assembly.
Preferably, both current conductors are guided through the second polymer material of the first housing part. Further, the accommodation space of the first housing part is dimensioned in such a manner that the electrode assembly finds space therein essentially completely. This embodiment offers the further advantage that following the insertion of the electrode assembly into the accommodation space, the electrical connections of contact lugs and current conductors can be produced in a simplified manner, in particular as a consequence of improved accessibility.
This preferred embodiment offers the advantages that
A third preferred embodiment of the converter cell has a first and a second of these current conduction devices of different polarity and this cell housing on this electrode assembly. The electrode assembly is constructed as a flat electrode winding or electrode stack with at least one electrode in each case of first and second polarity.
The current conduction devices each have one of these contacting regions and at least one or a plurality of these contact lugs, wherein the contacting regions are used for electrically connecting to the functional device, in particular via the electrode connection regions thereof. The first current conduction device, in particular the contact lug thereof, is electrically connected to the electrode of first polarity. The second current conduction device, in particular the contact lug thereof, is electrically connected to the electrode of second polarity.
The cell housing has the first housing part. The first housing part has the first support element, the second support element and at least one or a plurality of these functional devices in each case with at least one or a plurality of these functional elements. These support elements each have an in particular fibre-permeated first polymer material. The first support element delimits the at least one of these functional devices with respect to the surroundings of the converter cell. The second support element delimits the at least one of these functional devices with respect to the electrode assembly of the converter cell. The at least one functional device is arranged between the first and the second support element. The first support element, preferably also the second support element is in particular materially connected to at least one of these functional devices at least in certain areas. The first support element has one or two of these pole contact recesses, which each expose a region of the adjacent functional device with respect to the surroundings of the converter cell. The second support element has one or two of these contacting recesses, as a result of which the adjacent functional device is exposed in certain areas with respect to the electrode assembly. In an edge region, the first housing part has the second polymer material which encompasses the edge region of the first housing part. Also, the second polymer material connects the edge region of the first housing part to the first current conduction device, preferably also to the second current conduction device materially and/or in a gas-tight manner. The first current conduction device, preferably also the second current conduction device extends out of the second polymer material into the cell housing in the direction of the electrode assembly. Preferably, the first housing part has an accommodation space which accommodates the electrode assembly at least to some extent.
The at least one functional device is operatively connected, in particular electrically connected, to the electrode assembly. The at least one functional device has one, preferably two of these electrode connection regions which are used for electrically connecting to the electrode assembly. Both current conduction devices each have one of these contacting regions, wherein the contacting regions are used for electrically connecting to the at least one functional device, in particular via the electrode connection regions thereof. The first electrode connection region of the at least one functional device and the contacting region of the first current conduction device are electrically, preferably materially, connected to one another in particular in the region of the first contacting recess. Preferably, the second electrode connection region of the at least one functional device is electrically, preferably materially, connected to the contacting region of the second current conduction device in particular in the region of the second contacting recess. Further, the at least one functional device has one or two of these pole contact regions which are exposed with respect to the surroundings by means of one in each case of these pole contact recesses of the first support element. The pole contact regions of the at least one functional device are in each case electrically connected to the electrode connection regions thereof. Preferably, the functional device is constructed as a populated, in particular flexible circuit board. Particularly preferably, the functional device has one cell control device.
Further, the cell housing has the second housing part. The second housing part has this first support element, preferably this second support element and preferably at least one of these functional devices. The first support element, preferably also the second support element, has an in particular fibre-permeated first polymer material in each case. Preferably, the at least one functional device is arranged between the first and the second support element. Preferably, the support elements are in particular materially connected to the at least one functional device at least in certain areas. Preferably, the first support element has one of these pole contact recesses, which exposes a region of the adjacent functional device with respect to the surroundings of the converter cell. Preferably, the second support element has one of these contacting recesses, as a result of which the functional device is exposed in certain areas opposite the electrode assembly. Preferably, the functional device has one of these electrode connection regions, which is used for electrically connecting to the electrode assembly, particularly via one of these contacting regions of the current conduction devices. Preferably, the functional device has one of these pole contact regions which is exposed with respect to the surroundings through the pole contact recess of the first support element. Preferably, the pole contact region of the functional device is electrically connected to the electrode connection region thereof. In an edge region, the second housing part has the second polymer material which preferably encompasses the edge region of the second housing part. Preferably, the second polymer material connects the edge region of the second housing part and the second current conduction device materially and/or in a gas-tight manner. Preferably, the second housing part has an accommodation space which accommodates the electrode assembly at least to some extent.
This preferred embodiment offers the advantages that
According to a first preferred development of this preferred embodiment, the at least one functional device of the first housing part has two of these pole contact regions and two of these electrode connection regions of different polarity in each case. The first support element of the first housing part has two of these pole contact recesses. The second support element of the first housing part has two of these contacting recesses. This preferred development offers the advantage that energy can be exchanged with the electrode assembly via the pole contact regions of the first housing part. This preferred development offers the further advantage that the current conduction devices can be constructed without a first region.
According to a second preferred development of this preferred embodiment, the at least one functional device of the first housing part has one of these pole contact regions and one of these electrode connection regions. The first support element of the first housing part has one of these pole contact recesses. The second support element of the first housing part has one of these contacting recesses. Further, the at least one functional device of the second housing part has one of these pole contact regions and one of these electrode connection regions. The first support element of the second housing part has one of these pole contact recesses. The second support element of the second housing part has one of these contacting recesses. This preferred development offers the advantage that energy can be exchanged with the electrode assembly via the pole contact regions of the first and second housing part. This preferred development offers the further advantage that the current conduction devices can be constructed without a first region.
Preferably, these housing parts are connected by means of this hinged region or by means of this frame, in accordance with the third or fourth preferred development of the first preferred embodiment of the converter cell.
A fourth preferred embodiment essentially corresponds to the first or second preferred embodiment, wherein the electrode assembly is constructed as a converter assembly. At least one of these functional devices of this preferred embodiment has at least one, preferably two or three of these fluid ducts. Connected to this fluid duct is a fluid supply line not belonging to the converter cell, which is used in particular for supplying or draining one of these process fluids. Preferably, this fluid duct is of essentially tubular construction and connected to the first support layer materially or in a gas-tight manner. Particularly preferably, this fluid duct extends out of the cell housing into the surroundings of the converter cell.
According to a first preferred development of this embodiment, the converter assembly is constructed as a polymer electrolyte fuel cell. The membrane is proton-conductive. H2 is used as fuel and is supplied to the negative electrode, provided with a noble metal as catalyst, in particular with Pt. After ionisation, the protons migrate through the membrane to the positive electrode and there combine with the oxidising agent. Water is created as educt.
According to a second preferred development of this embodiment, the converter assembly is characterised by the integration of hydrogen reservoir and miniaturised fuel cell to form one unit. In this case, no peripheral components such as pressure reducing devices, pressure regulators and hydrogen supply lines are required. The hydrogen is supplied directly to the fuel cell from the integrated reservoir. The quantity of hydrogen supply to the fuel cell is controlled via the material properties of the surface of the hydrogen reservoir and also via the contact surface between the hydrogen reservoir and fuel cell. In order to realise the fuel cell completely without active components, it is designed as a self-breathing system. This preferred development offers great potential for miniaturisation.
According to a third preferred development of this embodiment, the converter assembly is constructed with an air cathode made up of highly porous Al2O3, ZnO or SiC. The anode is made up of pressed Zn powder, metal foam with embedded Zn or ceramic, in particular SiC, with Zn portions. Electrolyte and separator are constructed as a non-woven fabric or porous ceramic with 30% KOH. This preferred development is particularly suitable for high operating temperatures.
Preferably, these housing parts are connected by means of this hinged region or by means of this frame, in accordance with the third or fourth preferred development of the first preferred embodiment of the converter cell.
A fifth preferred embodiment of the converter cell essentially corresponds to the first, second or third preferred embodiment of the converter cell, wherein the first housing part and/or second housing part has two functional devices preferably constructed in a layered manner and also an insulating device, however.
The electrode assembly is designed for storing chemical energy in particular and preferably designed to be rechargeable. The electrode assembly is constructed with at least two electrodes of different polarity and as an electrode stack or electrode winding, in particular as a flat electrode winding.
The insulating device is in particular used to at least intermittently electrically insulate the first functional device with respect to the second functional device. The insulating device is constructed with an electrically insulating material, in particular with a polymer and arranged between the first functional device and the second functional device. In the following, it is described as the first state that the insulating device electrically insulates the first functional device with respect to the second functional device. In the following, it is described as the second state that the insulating device has at least in certain areas lost its suitability for electrically insulating the mentioned functional devices from one another. The second state occurs if a foreign body in particular penetrates the insulating device.
The two functional devices and also the insulating device are arranged between the first support element and the second support element. The first functional device and the second functional device are electrically conductively constructed, preferably as metal films. The first functional device is in particular connected via one of these electrode connection regions to an electrode of first polarity of the electrode assembly and the second functional device is in particular connected via one of these electrode connection regions to an electrode of second polarity of the electrode assembly. If the insulating device is intact, the electrode of first polarity is electrically insulated from the electrode of second polarity, called the first state in the following.
If a foreign body from the surroundings of the converter cell penetrates the insulating device, for example in the case of an accident, then the insulating action thereof is impaired. The insulating device is present in the second state as a consequence of the penetration. In the second state, an electrical contacting of first and second functional device can establish itself, wherein this electrical contacting is affected by an electrical resistance RF. Then, an electric current IF can flow between the first and the second functional devices and thus between the electrodes of different polarity. The electrical resistance RF is used in particular for limiting the electric current IF between the first and the second functional devices and thus between the electrodes of different polarity. The electrical resistance RF is used in particular for converting a part of the energy stored in the electrode assembly into heat energy. Subsequently to this energy conversion, the energy remaining in the electrode assembly is reduced. Subsequently, the damaged converter cell can be saved with reduced energy content with minimal danger. This preferred embodiment offers the advantage of increased safety of the converter cell, even if a foreign body penetrates. Preferably, the electrical resistance RF is at least 0.5Ω, further preferably at least 1Ω, further preferably at least 2Ω, further preferably at least 5Ω, further preferably at least 10Ω, further preferably at least 20Ω, further preferably at least 50Ω, further preferably at least 100Ω, further preferably at least 200Ω, further preferably at least 500Ω, further preferably at most 1000Ω. Particularly preferably, the electrical resistance RF is adapted to the electric voltage of the converter cell or of the electrode assemblies thereof in such a manner that the heating output in the electrical resistance RF is limited to at most 50 W, further preferably to at most 20 W, further preferably to at most 10 W, further preferably to at most 5 W, further preferably to at most 2 W further preferably to at most 1 W. This preferred development offers the advantage that impairments in particular in particular of adjacent converter cells in the same battery as a consequence of heat development are counteracted.
Preferably, the first support element and/or the second support element of the first and/or second housing part are constructed in a layered manner. Particularly preferably, at least the first support element is constructed with a fibre-permeated polymer material. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that the mechanical protection of the first functional device, which is arranged adjacently to the first support element, is improved.
Preferably, the second support element has a first and a second of these contacting recesses. Preferably, the second functional device, which is adjacent to the second support element, and the insulating device each have a recess, which recesses are adjacent to the first contacting recess. The first functional device is electrically connected through the first contacting recess to the electrode of first polarity in particular via one of these current conduction devices. The second functional device is electrically connected through the second contacting recess to the electrode of second polarity in particular via a second of these current conduction devices. Particularly preferably, the recess of the second functional device has a larger cross-sectional area than the adjacent recess of the insulating device. This preferred configuration offers the advantage of improved insulation between the first functional device and the second functional device, in particular in that a parasitic current between the first and second functional devices is counteracted.
According to a preferred embodiment, the insulating device is constructed as an insulating ply, in particular as a polymer film. This preferred embodiment offers the advantage that the insulating device can be produced in a cost-effective manner. This preferred embodiment offers the advantage that the insulating device can be constructed with a small wall thickness and thus in a space-saving manner.
According to a further preferred embodiment, the insulating device is constructed as an electrically insulating coating of the first or second functional device. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that an undesired relative movement between the electrically insulating coating and the coated support element is counteracted.
Preferably, at least one of these functional devices is realised in a puncture-resistant manner, in particular as a puncture-protection layer. To this end, this functional device has:
The preferred configuration offers the advantage that this functional device opposes the foreign body with an increased mechanical resistance against the penetration thereof in particular into the electrode assembly. Particularly preferably, the functional device, which is arranged closer to the electrode assembly, is realised in a puncture-resistant manner or as a puncture protection layer. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that the mechanical protection of the electrode assembly is improved and in the process, the change of the insulating device to its second state is not impaired.
Preferably, the insulating device and/or at least one of these functional devices has a filler with the capacity for phase change in particular within a predetermined operating temperature range of the converter cell. This preferred development offers the advantage that a temperature rise as a consequence of the current through the electrically conducting foreign body is counteracted in the filler during phase change.
Preferably, the insulating device and/or at least one of these functional devices has a substance for reacting with hydrogen fluoride, particularly preferably calcium chloride. This configuration offers the advantage that hydrogen fluoride can be bound within the cell housing.
According to a preferred development, a discharge resistance RE is connected between the first functional device and the at least one electrode of first polarity or between the second functional device and the at least one electrode of second polarity. Preferably, the discharge resistance is constructed as a PTC thermistor. Preferably, the electrical resistance RE is at least 0.5Ω, further preferably at least 1Ω, further preferably at least 2Ω, further preferably at least 5Ω, further preferably at least 10Ω, further preferably at least 20Ω, further preferably at least 50Ω, further preferably at least 100Ω, further preferably at least 200Ω, further preferably at least 500Ω, further preferably at most 1000Ω. Particularly preferably, the electrical resistance RE is adapted to the electric voltage of the converter cell or of the electrode assemblies thereof in such a manner that the heating output in the discharge resistance is limited to at most 50 W, further preferably to at most 20 W, further preferably to at most 10 W, further preferably to at most 5 W, further preferably to at most 2 W further preferably to at most 1 W. This preferred development offers the advantage that impairments in particular of adjacent converter cells in the same battery as a consequence of heat development are counteracted.
Preferably, a battery has at least two of these converter cells or the preferred embodiments thereof. Further, the battery has a battery control and preferably a second short-range radio device. Preferably, the second short-range radio device is signal-connected to one of these first short-range radio devices of one of these converter cells.
Particularly preferably, the second short-range radio device is provided to intermittently send a predetermined first signal, to which a first of these short-range radio devices responds with a predetermined signal. This configuration offers the advantage that the operating capability of converter cells of the battery can be queried using the second short-range radio device.
Particularly preferably, the battery control is provided, following the receipt of a predetermined second signal from one of these first short-range radio devices of one of the converter cells by means of the second short-range radio device, to integrate this converter cell into the supply of a connected consumer. This configuration offers the advantage that the exchange of a converter cell is simplified.
Preferably, the at least two converter cells are each constructed with one of these first and second layer regions of different wall thickness. These layer regions are adapted to one another in such a manner that at least one channel for a tempering medium is formed between the first converter cell and the second converter cell, in particular between the cell housings thereof. Particularly preferably, the channel runs between one of these first layer regions of the first converter cell and one of these second layer regions of the second converter cell. This configuration offers the advantage that the tempering medium which flows along the channel can exchange heat energy with at least one of these two converter cells, in particular for heat dissipation from at least one of these two converter cells.
In the following, a method according to the invention for producing an electrochemical energy converter device, in the following also called a converter cell, is described. In particular, the converter cell is constructed as described previously. The converter cell produced in accordance with this method according to the invention has one of these electrode assemblies, at least one or two of these current conduction devices and one of these cell housings with one of these first housing parts, preferably also with one of these second or third housing parts. The electrode assembly has at least two electrodes of different polarity. At least two of these current conduction devices are connected in each case to one electrode of different polarity. Preferably, at least one or two of these current conduction devices in each case have at least one or a plurality of contact lugs, particularly preferably in each case one current conductor. Preferably, at least one or two of these current conduction devices have one contacting region in each case. The first housing part has a first support element and at least one or a plurality of these functional devices in each case with at least one or a plurality of these functional elements. The first support element faces the surroundings of the converter cell. The first support element has an in particular fibre-permeated first polymer material. The at least one functional device is in particular materially connected to the first support element at least in certain areas. At least one of these functional devices is operatively connected, preferably electrically connected, to the electrode assembly. Preferably, the first housing part has the second support element, which is arranged between the functional devices on the electrode assembly and particularly preferably is in particular materially connected to one of these functional devices. Preferably, the first housing part has a second polymer material in an edge region. The production method according to the invention is characterised by at least one of the following steps:
In the sense of the invention, a differential pressure with respect to the surroundings of the processing device in step S26″ is to be understood to mean that the second polymer material has a higher static pressure when fed into the processing device than the static pressure in the processing device. According to a preferred configuration of the step S26″, the second polymer material is loaded with an overpressure with respect to the surroundings of the processing device. According to a further preferred configuration of step S26″, an underpressure with respect to the surroundings of the processing device is present in the region of the housing parts inserted into the processing device. Both pressure differences are used for feeding the second polymer material into the processing device. Both configurations offer the advantage that the filling of regions of the processing device provided for the second polymer material is improved during the connection of the inserted housing parts.
The production method according to the invention offers the advantage that the cell housing or the first housing part thereof can be produced with a predetermined flexural stiffness and/or a predetermined capacity for energy absorption with respect to a foreign body acting on the converter cell from the surroundings, as a result of which the mechanical resistance of the converter cell in particular is improved. Preferably, to this end step S2 is executed multiple times before step S4, whereupon a plurality of first support elements are connected to the functional device to form a layer composite or moulding blank.
The production method according to the invention offers the advantage that the cell housing or the first housing part thereof, which within the operating temperature range has a predetermined flexural stiffness and/or a predetermined capacity for energy absorption with respect to a foreign body acting on the converter cell from the surroundings, can be produced at the working temperature with low energy outlay.
The production method according to the invention offers the advantage that the first support element improves the cohesion of the functional device, as a result of which the resistance of the converter cell with respect to vibrations or the operating capability of the converter cell in the case of vibrations is improved.
The production method according to the invention offers the advantage that in particular in contrast with converter cells with a film-like cell housing, it is possible to dispense with reinforcing components.
The production method according to the invention offers the advantage that after the construction of the functional device, the layer composite and/or the first housing part, the later manufacturing steps are simplified. Thus, production costs are saved. The production method according to the invention offers the further advantage that output and quality of production are improved.
The production method according to the invention offers the advantage that the cell housing can be adapted simply and in a cost-effective manner to the electrode assemblies of different nominal charging capacities, in particular in that the accommodation space in the first housing part can be produced just directly before the insertion of the electrode assembly. Thus, storage costs can be reduced.
A first preferred configuration of the previously mentioned method according to the invention for producing a converter cell, in particular for closing the cell housing around the electrode assembly, is characterised by the steps:
This preferred configuration of the method offers the advantage that at least one or a plurality of these functional devices of the first housing part are arranged within the cell housing in particular in a protected manner.
Preferably, the method also has step S25. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that the material connection of the heated edge region with the second polymer material is improved.
Preferably, step S26 is replaced by step S26′. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that connecting this housing part can take place at a temperature below the softening temperature of the first or second polymer material, particularly preferably at room temperature, as a result of which energy can be saved.
Preferably, step S26 is replaced by step S26″. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that the filling of regions of the processing device provided for the second polymer material is improved during the connection of the inserted housing parts.
A second preferred configuration of the previously mentioned method according to the invention for producing a converter cell, in particular for producing the first housing part, is characterised by the steps: S11, S12, S14, S15, S16. Preferably, this configuration of the method has step S10 for heating the moulding blank. Preferably, this configuration of the method has step S13 for constructing the accommodation space. This preferred configuration of the method offers the advantage that at least one or a plurality of these current conduction devices is encompassed by the second polymer material in particular in a gas-tight manner, whereby in particular an exchange of substances between the interior of the cell housing and the surroundings of the converter cell is counteracted.
A third preferred configuration of the previously mentioned method according to the invention for producing a converter cell, in particular for producing a layer composite, wherein the layer composite has the first support element, at least one or a plurality of these functional devices and preferably the second support element, is characterised by the steps: S2, S3, S4. This preferred configuration of the method offers the advantage that an in particular material connection between the first support element and at least one of these functional devices is created, as a result of which the cohesion of this functional device is improved in particular in the case of bumps. Preferably, in step S3 at least one populated, in particular flexible circuit board is laid onto the first support element is functional device or functional assembly. In this case, this circuit board has the functional elements according to the first preferred configuration of the functional device. This preferred configuration of the method offers the advantage that numerous functions for controlling or monitoring the electrode assembly can be realised in the functional device, which is connected to the first support element or in particular is a captive part of the cell housing.
Preferably, this configuration of the method in particular after step S2, also has the step S2′. In this case, two first support layers are laid on one another. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that the wall thickness of the layer composite is increased, whereby an improved mechanical protection of an adjacent functional device is achieved.
Preferably, this configuration of the method also has the steps S5 and S6. Particularly preferably, step S5 takes place before the simultaneously executed steps S4 and S6. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that the housing part is stiffened using at least one of these second support elements. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that this functional device is electrically insulated with respect to the electrode assembly by means of this second support element.
Preferably, this configuration of the method also has one of the steps S1, S1′ or S1″, in particular before step S2, particularly preferably with step S27. This preferred configuration offers the advantage that the directly preceding creation also saves the functional device storage costs.
According to a preferred development of this preferred configuration, the layer composite is produced with different wall thicknesses. In this case, regions for the first housing part, the second housing part and for a hinged region are produced. The hinged region is produced with a lower wall thickness than the regions for the housing parts and preferably without a functional device, preferably in that the regions for the housing parts receive additional support layers or the hinged region only has one of these first support layers. The hinged region is arranged between the region for the first housing part and the region for the second housing part. Later, the moulding blank is shortened in such a manner that it at one first end has this region for the first housing, at an opposite end has this region for the second housing and in-between has the hinged region. This development offers the advantage that the length of the edges of the in particular cuboidal cell housing to be sealed is reduced.
To close the cell housing or when connecting the first housing part to the second housing part, the hinged region is brought to a working temperature above the softening temperature of the first polymer material and bent over in such a manner that the region for the first housing part lies opposite the region for the second housing part. Subsequently, in particular after the connection of the housing parts around the electrode assembly, the hinged region is brought to a removal temperature, in particular below the softening temperature of the first polymer material.
A fourth preferred configuration of the previously mentioned method according to the invention for producing a converter cell, in particular for producing the first preferred development of the first preferred embodiment of the converter cell, is characterised by the steps:
A fifth preferred configuration of the previously mentioned method according to the invention is used for producing a converter cell, in particular for producing the previously mentioned fifth preferred embodiment of the converter cell, in particular for producing one of these first and/or second housing parts with two of these functional devices and the insulating device.
The first and/or second housing parts each have the first support element and the second support element, wherein the two functional devices and the insulating device are arranged between these support elements. The first and the second functional devices are constructed as electrical conductors, preferably as metal films, and each with one of these electrode connection regions. The first functional device is arranged adjacently to the first support element. The insulating device is constructed as an insulating ply and has a recess adjacent to the electrode connection of the first functional device. The second functional device has one of these recesses adjacent to the recess of the insulating ply. The second support element, which is arranged adjacently to the second functional device, has one each of these contacting recesses adjacent to the electrode connection regions of the first and second functional devices.
The method is characterised by the steps:
During the steps S3 and step S3′, which are executed multiple times, the recesses of the insulating device and the second functional device and also the contacting recesses of the second support element are arranged in such a manner that the electrode connection regions of the first and second functional devices are exposed opposite the current conduction devices through the recesses and contacting recesses mentioned.
After these steps, a layer composite with the first support element, these two functional devices, this insulating device and the second support element is formed. Preferably, the layer composite is supplied to the fourth supply in accordance with step S7.
Subsequently, the steps S11, S12, S14, S15, S16 are carried out. Preferably, step S13 for constructing the accommodation space is executed. Particularly preferably, step S10 for heating the moulding blank or for softening the first polymer material is executed, whereby the construction of the accommodation space is simplified in the case of softened first polymer material. Thus, a housing part is created for a preferred embodiment, in particular for the preferred fifth embodiment with three functional devices and with two of these current conductors (S11) of different polarity, which are encompassed by the second polymer material (S13) in particular in a gas-tight manner.
Subsequently, the following steps are executed:
As a result of this preferred production method, a converter cell is created which has the advantage of an increased operational reliability.
If a foreign body from the surroundings of the converter cell penetrates the insulating device, for example in the case of an accident, then the insulating action thereof is impaired. As a consequence of the penetration of the insulating device, an electrical contacting of first and second functional device can establish itself, in particular with an electrical resistance RF. In this state of the insulating device, called the second state in the following, the first functional device and the second functional device can be electrically connected to one another. Then, an electric current IF can flow between the first and the second functional devices and thus between the electrodes of different polarity. The electrical resistance RF is used in particular for limiting the electric current IF. The electrical resistance RF is used in particular for converting a part of the energy stored in the electrode assembly into heat energy. Subsequently to this energy conversion, the energy remaining in the electrode assembly is reduced. Subsequently, the damaged converter cell can be saved with reduced energy content with minimal danger. This preferred embodiment offers the advantage of increased safety of the converter cell, even if a foreign body penetrates.
Further advantages, features and application possibilities of the present invention result from the following description in connection with the figures. In the figures:
a shows that the first housing part 6 is overmoulded in an edge region with a second polymer material 21. A current conductor 14 is overmoulded by the second polymer material 21 in particular in a gas-tight manner and essentially immovably connected to the first housing part 6. The first housing part 6 has the first support element 7, the second support element 7a and a functional device 8, wherein the functional device 8 spaces the support elements 7, 7a.
b shows that contact lugs 13 are welded to the current conductor 14. The contact lugs 13 are also electrically, in particular materially connected to electrodes of first polarity of an electrode assembly which is not illustrated. This electrical connection has been created after the electrode assembly, which is not illustrated, has been inserted into the first housing part 6 and before the cell housing is closed.
c shows the first housing part 6 and a second housing part 6a, the edge regions of which are in each case overmoulded with the second polymer material 21. In each case, the current conductor 14, 14a is connected to one of the housing parts 6, 6a through second polymer materials 21. Groups of contact lugs 13, 13a are welded to the current conductors 14, 14a. These groups of contact lugs 13, 13a are electrically connected to electrodes of different polarity of the same electrode assembly which is not illustrated. Thus, the first current conductor 14 has a different polarity to the second current conductor 14a. The cell housing is not yet closed.
d schematically shows a detail of the converter cell 1 after the cell housing 5 has been closed by means of materially connecting the first housing part 6 to the second housing part 6a. In this case, second polymer materials 21 of the edge regions of the housing parts 6, 6a were fused with one another. The current conductors 14, 14a extend out of the cell housing 5. The current conductors 14, 14a also extend in the cell housing 5.
The layer composite 18 has two support elements 7, 7a which surround or encompass four functional devices 8, 8a, 8b, 8c. The individual functional devices fulfil various tasks and to this end have various functional elements. The second support element 7a has an arrangement of recesses or holes which enable a substance to pass in particular from the electrode assembly, which is not illustrated, to the fourth functional device 8c. The fourth functional device 8c has a pressure sensor, a thermocouple and a sensor for hydrogen fluoride, wherein the sensors are not illustrated. The third functional device 8b chemically and electrically insulates the second functional device 8a from the electrode assembly. The third functional device 8b has functional elements for signal exchange between the second functional device 8a and the sensors mentioned, however. The second functional device 8a has a cell control device, which is not illustrated and which processes signals of the sensors mentioned and controls the operation of the likewise not-illustrated electrode assembly. The first functional device 8 is a cotton ply with alum as flame-retardant filler and is used for protecting the second functional device 8a lying therebeneath.
The layer composite 18a has only one functional device 8. Here, the pressure sensor, the thermocouple and the cell control device are part of the same functional device 8.
a shows the moulding blank 23 and also the current conductors 14, 14a which are inserted into the processing device, here constructed as a moulding tool 20. The two-part moulding tool is not yet closed. A part of the moulding tool 20 is constructed with a depression, the other part of the moulding tool 20 is constructed with an elevation. Depression and elevation are used for constructing an accommodation space in the moulding blank 23 or first housing part for the electrode assembly which is not illustrated. Before the moulding tool 20, equipped with depression and elevation, is closed, the moulding blank 23 is heated to a working temperature which at least corresponds to the softening temperature of the first polymer material.
b shows the moulding tool 20 during the closing process, wherein the accommodation space 11 is constructed in the moulding blank 23 by means of the depression and the elevation. In the process, the moulding blank 23 has a working temperature which at least corresponds to the softening temperature of the first polymer material.
c shows the closed moulding tool 20. The inserted moulding blank 23 has the accommodation space 11 after plastic shaping. The current conductors 14, 14a are held in the moulding tool 20 in predetermined positions with respect to the moulding blank 23, particularly in the edge region of the moulding blank 23. Preferably, the moulding blank 23 has a working temperature which at least corresponds to the softening temperature of the first polymer material, in particular so that the moulding blank 23 can begin an intimate material connection with the second polymer material which is not illustrated.
d shows the closed moulding tool 20 and also the inserted moulding blank 23 according to
After supplying the second polymer material 21, the temperature thereof and also the temperature of the shaped moulding blank 23 are lowered, so that the temperature also falls below the softening temperature of the first polymer material. The first housing part 6 is then ready for removal.
e shows the open moulding tool 20 and also the demoulded first housing part 6. The first housing part 6 has the two support elements, at least one of these functional devices, second polymer material 21 in the edge region, the accommodation space 11, and also the current conductors 14, 14a. After removing the first housing part 6, the moulding tool 20 is ready for producing the next first housing part.
a shows that the current conduction devices 4, 4a are guided through the second housing part 6a into the surroundings. It is not illustrated that the current conduction devices 4, 4a are connected to the second housing part 6a materially and in particular in a gas-tight manner.
b shows that the current conduction devices 4, 4a are guided through the first housing part 6 into the surroundings. It is not illustrated that the current conduction devices 4, 4a are connected to the first housing part 6 materially and in particular in a gas-tight manner.
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If a foreign body penetrates into the first housing part 6 and in the process changes the insulating device 26 to its second state, an electric current can flow between the functional devices 8, 8a and thus between the electrodes of different polarity of the electrode assembly. In the process, at least part of the stored energy is removed from the electrode assembly and in particular converted into heat energy.
Number | Date | Country | Kind |
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10 2012 001 440.6 | Jan 2012 | DE | national |
10 2012 002 051.1 | Feb 2012 | DE | national |
Number | Date | Country | |
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61590825 | Jan 2012 | US | |
61593875 | Feb 2012 | US |