DE102022129898A1 - Electrical energy storage device comprising a cell contact system with identical parts - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical energy storage device (10) for a motor vehicle, comprising a plurality of first battery cells (11a), each with two first contact poles (12a), a plurality of second battery cells (11b), each with two second contact poles (12b), and a cell contacting system (13). The cell contacting system (13) comprises a first cover plate (14a) which covers the plurality of first battery cells (11a) and has first passages (15a) for the first contact poles (12a). The cell contacting system (13) further comprises a second cover plate (14b) which covers the plurality of second battery cells (11b) and has second passages (15b) for the second contact poles (12b). The first cover plate (14a) and the second cover plate (14b) are designed as identical parts. Furthermore, the cell contacting system (13) comprises an electrical connection device (16), by means of which the plurality of first battery cells (11a) and the plurality of second battery cells (11b) are electrically connected to one another via the first and second passages (15a, 15b).

Description

The invention relates to an electrical energy storage device for a motor vehicle and to a motor vehicle with such an energy storage device.

In the prior art, it is known to equip electric and hybrid vehicles with electrical energy storage devices, so-called battery packs, in order to drive the drive units of the corresponding vehicles using the electrical energy stored or storable there.

One way to manufacture such battery packs is to first assemble a certain number of battery cells (e.g. fifteen or sixteen battery cells) into battery modules and then connect several of these battery modules (e.g. using copper bars or electrical cables with plugs) to form a battery pack. The connection of the respective battery modules is often done manually under special safety measures, as the voltage usually exceeds 60 V DC.

The modular battery pack architecture primarily offers product configuration and assembly advantages, since the variation in the number of battery modules ensures easy scalability of the battery pack without the need for a fundamental change to the basic pack structure. The disadvantage of this type of battery pack architecture, however, is that the cell-fixing structures of the battery modules, such as module housings, module frames, etc., require additional installation space that cannot be used to accommodate battery cells.

Cell-to-pack concepts are also known in order to achieve the highest possible energy density in a given installation space. These are characterized by the fact that the battery cells are integrated directly into the battery pack. Battery modules are not used. In this context, however, there is a need for a solution by means of which the large number of battery cells (e.g. forty-eight battery cells arranged in one plane) can be contacted as easily and safely as possible. Previous solutions are sometimes complex or only achieve this goal with limitations.

Accordingly, it is the object of the invention to provide an improved possibility for contacting or interconnecting battery cells. Preferably, it is an object of the invention to provide a solution that is as simple and safe to install as possible, by means of which battery cells can be connected to one another in a "cell-to-pack" architecture as cost-effectively as possible.

These objects can be achieved with the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and applications of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and are explained in more detail in the following description with partial reference to the figures.

A first independent aspect of the present disclosure relates to an electrical energy storage device for a motor vehicle. The electrical energy storage device is preferably an electrical energy storage device for a commercial vehicle, e.g. for a truck and/or bus.

The electrical energy storage device has a plurality of first battery cells (e.g. lithium-ion battery cells), each with two first contact poles (e.g. a positive and a negative pole). The plurality of first battery cells can, for example, be a (first) subset of a total number of battery cells in the electrical energy storage device.

Furthermore, the electrical energy storage device has a plurality of second battery cells (e.g. lithium-ion battery cells), each with two second contact poles (e.g. a positive and a negative pole). The plurality of second battery cells can, for example, be a further (second) subset of the total number of battery cells in the electrical energy storage device, which subset is different from the first subset.

The electrical energy storage device also has a cell contact system. This comprises a first cover plate which covers the plurality of first battery cells and has first passages for the first contact poles. The first cover plate can, for example, rest on the plurality of first battery cells, with one of the first passages preferably being arranged above one of the first contact poles.

The cell contact system also includes a second cover plate which covers the plurality of second battery cells and has second passages for the second contact poles. The second cover plate can, for example, rest on the plurality of second battery cells, with one of the second passages preferably being arranged above one of the second contact poles. The electrical energy storage device or the cell contact system is characterized in that the first cover plate and the second cover plate are designed as identical parts. The first and second cover plates should therefore preferably be exactly the same in terms of shape, size and material.

The cell contact system further comprises an electrical connection device by means of which the plurality of first battery cells and the plurality of second battery cells are electrically connected to one another (e.g. in series) via the first and second passages. The electrical connection device, which can be designed in the form of several separate cell connectors or cell bridges, can be accommodated in the first and second passages at least in sections and/or guided through the first and second passages.

Overall, the above design, in particular the multiple use of identical cover plates instead of a single cover plate, which can be unstable with correspondingly large energy storage devices, advantageously enables a reduction in the variety of components when producing the electrical energy storage device. This makes it possible to manufacture and contact things easily and also to save costs due to the scale effect. Furthermore, the use of identical parts advantageously enables the size of the energy storage device to be easily adapted and scaled. Ultimately, the present disclosure is suitable for a "cell-to-pack" concept in which the cell connectors are connected to the respective contact poles, e.g. by means of a welding robot, whereby the cell connectors are significantly flatter than plug connectors or module connectors, and thus a high packing density can be achieved in an advantageous manner.

According to a first aspect, the electrical connection device can be accommodated at least in sections in the first passages and second passages. For example, the electrical connection device can be guided at least in sections through the respective first and second passages and/or arranged at least in sections in the respective first and second passages. The first and second passages preferably also serve as an insertion or assembly aid for the electrical connection device during the manufacture of the electrical energy storage device. For example, during the manufacture of the electrical energy storage device, parts of the electrical connection device can be pre-positioned by means of the first passages and second passages or (locally) fixed, for example, by means of locking and/or clamping devices attached in the area of the passages.

In addition or alternatively, all of the plurality of first battery cells and all of the plurality of second battery cells can be connected to one another in series by means of the electrical connection device. For example, all of the plurality of first battery cells and all of the plurality of second battery cells can be electrically connected to one another in a series circuit via the electrical connection device.

In addition or alternatively, the electrical connection device can be welded to the plurality of first battery cells and the plurality of second battery cells. For example, the electrical connection device can be welded to the first contact poles of the plurality of first battery cells and to the second contact poles of the plurality of second battery cells. The welding can be carried out, for example, by means of a welding robot. This advantageously ensures rapid and secure contacting of a large number of battery cells.

According to a further aspect, the first cover plate and the second cover plate can be arranged in a (common) plane. This plane is preferably a horizontal plane. The first and second cover plates can thus be arranged, for example, at the same installation height in the electrical energy storage device.

In addition or alternatively, the first cover plate and the second cover plate can be arranged adjacent to one another and/or adjacent to one another. The first and second cover plates can, for example, be in direct contact with one another and/or be joined to one another.

In addition or alternatively, the first cover plate can be arranged above the plurality of first battery cells. For example, the plurality of first battery cells can be arranged, preferably directly, below the first cover plate with respect to a vertical axis of the electrical energy storage device.

In addition or alternatively, the second cover plate can be arranged above the plurality of second battery cells. For example, the plurality of second battery cells can be arranged, preferably directly, below the second cover plate with respect to the vertical axis of the electrical energy storage device.

Additionally or alternatively, the first cover plate can rest on the plurality of first battery cells. The first cover plate can, for example, rest on the plurality of first battery cells and/or be in direct mechanical contact with the plurality of first battery cells.

Additionally or alternatively, the second cover plate can rest on the plurality of second battery cells. For example, the second cover plate can rest on rest on the plurality of second battery cells and/or are in direct mechanical contact with the plurality of second battery cells.

According to a further aspect, the first cover plate and the second cover plate can each be made of plastic. The first and second cover plates can thus be made of a polymer material, for example. In addition to electrical insulation, this can also advantageously provide a cell contact system that is as lightweight as possible.

Additionally or alternatively, the first cover plate and the second cover plate can have a thickness of between 1 mm and 5 mm. This also advantageously allows weight to be saved.

Additionally or alternatively, the first cover plate and the second cover plate can be substantially rectangular. For example, the first and second cover plates can thus have a substantially square shape.

According to a further aspect, the first passages of the first cover plate can each be assigned to one of the first contact poles. The first passages and the first contact poles can thus be arranged to correspond to one another, for example. In an advantageous manner, this can provide an assembly aid for attaching the electrical connection device during the manufacture of the energy storage device.

In addition or alternatively, the second passages of the second cover plate can each be assigned to one of the second contact poles. The second passages and the second contact poles can thus be arranged to correspond to one another, for example. In an advantageous manner, this can also provide an assembly aid for attaching the electrical connection device during the manufacture of the energy storage device.

According to a further aspect, the first passages of the first cover plate can each be arranged above, preferably directly above, one of the first contact poles.

For example, one of the first passages can be arranged above one of the first contact poles.

In addition or alternatively, the second passages of the second cover plate can each be arranged above, preferably directly above, one of the second contact poles. For example, one of the second passages can be arranged above one of the second contact poles.

According to a further aspect, the first passages of the first cover plate can each be arranged in alignment with one of the first contact poles.

In addition or alternatively, the second passages of the second cover plate can each be arranged in alignment with one of the second contact poles.

According to a further aspect, the plurality of first battery cells and/or the plurality of second battery cells can each be prismatic battery cells. For example, the plurality of first and/or second battery cells can have a cuboid shape. Preferably, the respective two first contact poles of the plurality of first battery cells and/or the respective two second contact poles of the plurality of second battery cells are each oriented upwards. Preferably, all contact poles of the plurality of first and second battery cells therefore point upwards.

According to a further aspect, the plurality of first battery cells can be arranged in a stacked manner. The plurality of first battery cells are preferably arranged in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks (e.g. each with at least sixteen first battery cells).

In addition or alternatively, the plurality of second battery cells can also be arranged in a stacked manner. Preferably, the plurality of second battery cells are also arranged in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks (e.g. each with at least sixteen second battery cells).

According to a further aspect, the first passages (of the first cover plate) can be arranged in the form of several rows. The first passages can thus be arranged, for example, along several straight lines. The several rows are preferably arranged offset parallel to one another.

In addition or alternatively, the second passages (of the second cover plate) can also be arranged in the form of several rows. The second passages can also be arranged, for example, along several straight lines. Preferably, these several rows are also arranged offset parallel to one another.

According to a further aspect, the first passages can each completely penetrate the first cover plate. For example, the first passages can each be designed as a hole and/or as a recess must be formed in the first cover plate.

In addition or alternatively, the second passages can also completely penetrate the second cover plate. For example, the second passages can each be designed as a hole and/or as a recess in the second cover plate.

According to a further aspect, the electrical connection device can have a plurality of cell connectors (e.g. bridge-shaped and/or bracket-shaped). Preferably, the plurality of cell connectors are not electrically connected to one another directly, but rather via the first and second battery cells.

In this context, the plurality of cell connectors can preferably each electrically connect two battery cells from a total of the first and second battery cells to one another. For example, two of the plurality of first battery cells, two of the plurality of second battery cells and/or one of the plurality of first battery cells and one of the plurality of second battery cells can be connected via one of the plurality of cell connectors.

In addition or alternatively, the plurality of cell connectors can preferably each have two (e.g. flat) end sections, which can be connected to one another via a (e.g. curved) connecting section (e.g. integrally in one piece). The plurality of cell connectors can thus be designed, for example, essentially in the shape of a bridge and/or a bracket.

Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of cell connectors can preferably be made of a metal or a metal alloy. For example only, the plurality of cell connectors can be made of copper.

According to a further aspect, the plurality of cell connectors can have at least one first cell connector that electrically connects two (e.g. adjacent) first battery cells (of the plurality of first battery cells) to one another. Preferably, the at least one first cell connector is accommodated at least in sections in two of the first passages.

For example, a first end portion of the at least one first cell connector may be received in one of the first passages and a second end portion of the at least one first cell connector may be received in another of the first passages.

In addition or alternatively, the plurality of cell connectors can have at least one second cell connector that electrically connects two (e.g. adjacent) second battery cells (of the plurality of second battery cells) to one another. Preferably, the at least one second cell connector is accommodated at least in sections in two of the second passages. For example, a first end section of the at least one second cell connector can be accommodated in one of the second passages and a second end section of the at least one second cell connector can be accommodated in another of the second passages.

In addition or alternatively, the plurality of cell connectors can have at least one plate cell connector that electrically connects one of the first battery cells (of the plurality of first battery cells) and one of the second battery cells (of the plurality of second battery cells). Preferably, the at least one plate cell connector is accommodated at least in sections in one of the first passages and at least in sections in one of the second passages. For example, a first end section of the at least one plate cell connector can be accommodated in one of the first passages and a second end section of the at least one plate cell connector can be accommodated in one of the second passages. The first and second cover plates can thus be (mechanically) connected to one another via the plate cell connector.

According to a further aspect, the plurality of first battery cells can each have a degassing element for cell degassing (e.g. a pressure relief valve), which can also be referred to below as respective first degassing elements. The respective first degassing elements can serve to divert a gas flow (as controlled as possible) from the respective first battery cells in the event of a fault. Furthermore, the first cover plate can have first openings (e.g. holes and/or recesses) for the first degassing elements. The first openings are preferably arranged above one of the first degassing elements. For example, one of the first openings can be arranged above one of the first degassing elements. In an advantageous manner, this can ensure that gases escape in the event of a fault, and the first cover plate can also protect the plurality of first battery cells from the (hot) gases.

In addition or alternatively, the plurality of second battery cells can each have a degassing element for cell degassing (e.g. a pressure relief valve), which is also referred to below as respective second degassing elements. The respective second degassing elements can be used to divert a gas flow (as controlled as possible) from the respective second battery cells in the event of a fault. Furthermore, the second cover plate can also have second openings (e.g. holes and/or recesses) for the second degassing elements. The second openings are preferably arranged above one of the second degassing elements. For example, one of the second openings can be arranged above one of the second degassing elements. In an advantageous manner, this can also ensure that gases escape and that the plurality of second battery cells are protected in the event of a fault.

In one embodiment, the plurality of first battery cells can have thirty-two first battery cells. The thirty-two first battery cells are preferably arranged in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks, each with sixteen first battery cells. For example, the two parallel battery cell stacks (each with sixteen first battery cells) can be arranged adjacent to one another and/or adjacent to one another. Furthermore, the plurality of second battery cells can have thirty-two second battery cells. These are also preferably arranged in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks, each with sixteen second battery cells. For example, these two parallel battery cell stacks (each with sixteen second battery cells) can also be arranged adjacent to one another and/or adjacent to one another. Preferably, the two parallel battery cell stacks made up of first battery cells and the two parallel battery cell stacks made up of second battery cells each have the same stacking direction. According to the embodiment, the first cover plate can also have sixty-four first passages. These are preferably arranged in the form of four parallel rows, each with sixteen first passages. For example, the four parallel rows can each be oriented along the stacking direction of the battery cell stacks. Furthermore, the second cover plate can also have sixty-four second passages. These second passages are also preferably arranged in the form of four parallel rows, each with sixteen second passages, which can be oriented, for example, along the stacking direction of the battery cell stacks.

According to a further aspect, the electrical energy storage device can have a plurality of third battery cells (e.g. lithium-ion battery cells), each with two third contact poles (e.g. a positive and a negative pole). The plurality of third battery cells can, for example, be yet another (third) subset of the total number of battery cells in the electrical energy storage device. Furthermore, the cell contacting system can have a third cover plate, which covers the plurality of third battery cells and can have third passages for the third contact poles. For example, the third cover plate can rest on the plurality of third battery cells, with one of the third passages preferably being arranged above one of the third contact poles. In this case, it can be provided that the first cover plate, the second cover plate and the third cover plate are designed as identical parts. Accordingly, the first, second and third cover plates can, for example, be designed to be the same in terms of shape, size and material composition. Furthermore, in this context, the electrical connection device (of the cell contacting system) can electrically connect the plurality of first, second and third battery cells to one another (e.g. in series) via the first, second and third passages.

In a further embodiment, the electrical energy storage device can have thirty-two first, thirty-two second and thirty-two third battery cells. Accordingly, the plurality of first battery cells can comprise thirty-two first battery cells, which are preferably arranged in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks, each with sixteen first battery cells. Likewise, the plurality of second battery cells can comprise thirty-two second battery cells, which are also preferably arranged in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks, each with sixteen second battery cells. Furthermore, the plurality of third battery cells can comprise thirty-two third battery cells, which are preferably arranged in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks, each with sixteen third battery cells. Preferably, all battery cell stacks each have the same stacking direction. According to this further embodiment, the first, second and third cover plates can also each have sixty-four. The first cover plate can thus have sixty-four first passages, which are preferably arranged in the form of four parallel rows, each with sixteen first passages. Furthermore, the second cover plate can have sixty-four second passages, which are preferably arranged in the form of four parallel rows with sixteen second passages each. And the third cover plate can also have sixty-four third passages, which are preferably arranged in the form of four parallel rows with sixteen third passages each. The respective rows are preferably all oriented along the stacking direction of the battery cell stacks.

Furthermore, the disclosure relates to a motor vehicle (e.g. a truck or a bus), wherein the motor vehicle has an electrical energy storage device as disclosed in this document. Preferably, the motor vehicle is a commercial vehicle, ie a motor vehicle which, due to its design and equipment, is specially designed for transporting goods and/or for towing one or more (e.g. agricultural) trailer vehicles. For example, the commercial vehicle can be a truck, a semitrailer, a construction vehicle and/or an agricultural machine (e.g. a tractor).

• 1A eine schematische Darstellung einzelner Komponenten eines Zellkontaktiersystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 1B eine schematische Darstellung eines zusammengefügten Zellkontaktiersystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 1C eine schematische Seitenansicht eines Zellverbinders eines Zellkontaktiersystems gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 2A eine schematische Darstellung eines elektrischen Energiespeichers gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 2B eine schematische Darstellung eines elektrischen Energiespeichers gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 3 eine schematische Darstellung eines elektrischen Energiespeichers gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 4 eine schematische Darstellung eines elektrischen Energiespeichers gemäß einer Ausführungsform; und
• 5 eine schematische Darstellung eines elektrischen Energiespeichers gemäß einer Ausführungsform.

The aspects and features of the invention described above can be combined with one another as desired. Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show:

• 1A a schematic representation of individual components of a cell contacting system according to an embodiment;
• 1B a schematic representation of an assembled cell contacting system according to an embodiment;
• 1C a schematic side view of a cell connector of a cell contacting system according to an embodiment;
• 2A a schematic representation of an electrical energy storage device according to an embodiment;
• 2 B a schematic representation of an electrical energy storage device according to an embodiment;
• 3 a schematic representation of an electrical energy storage device according to an embodiment;
• 4 a schematic representation of an electrical energy storage device according to an embodiment; and
• 5 a schematic representation of an electrical energy storage device according to an embodiment.

The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and for their explanation reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures in order to avoid repetition. Furthermore, for reasons of clarity, not all components that occur multiple times (identical) have been referenced separately.

The 1A , 1B , 2A , 2 B , 3 , 4 and 5 show (partial) embodiments of an electrical energy storage device 10 for a motor vehicle (not shown) or components of the electrical energy storage device 10 for a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle can be, for example, a truck, a bus, a construction machine, an agricultural machine or a passenger car.

The electrical energy storage device 10 can provide electrical energy for at least one electrical drive unit for driving the motor vehicle. For example, the motor vehicle can be driven by means of a central electric drive, by means of several electric wheel hub drives or several electric drives close to the wheels. The electrical energy storage device 10 can be designed as a high-voltage energy storage device. The high-voltage energy storage device can be operated or operable, for example, with a direct voltage between 60 V and 1.5 kV, particularly preferably between 400 V and 850 V. The electrical energy storage device 10 can be charged externally via an electrical charging cable connected to a charging socket of the motor vehicle.

The electrical energy storage device 10 can be attached to the roof of the motor vehicle. Alternatively, the electrical energy storage device 10 can also be attached to a vehicle frame of the motor vehicle. For example, the electrical energy storage device 10 can be attached to an outer longitudinal side of one of the main longitudinal members of a vehicle frame of the motor vehicle designed as a ladder frame.

The electrical energy storage device 10 has a plurality of first battery cells 11 a, a plurality of second battery cells 11 b and a cell contact system 13 (see e.g. 2A , 3 , 4 and 5 ).

The plurality of first battery cells 11a can form a subset of a total number of battery cells of the electrical energy storage device 10, wherein this subset can also be referred to as the first subset for better differentiation. For example only, the electrical energy storage device 10 can have a total of sixty-four battery cells, of which, for example, thirty-two battery cells form the first battery cells 11a or the first subset.

The plurality of first battery cells 11a can each be, for example, lithium-ion battery cells. The plurality of first battery cells 11a can all be designed the same. The plurality of first battery cells 11a can each have an electrolyte and an electrode stack and/or electrode winding (not shown). The plurality of first battery cells 11a can each have a cell housing. The respective electrolyte and the respective elect electrode stack or electrode winding. The cell housing can have a cover surface, a base surface and a shell surface connecting the cover and base surfaces. Preferably, the plurality of first battery cells 11a are each prismatic battery cells. The plurality of first battery cells 11a or their respective cell housings can thus preferably each have a cuboid shape.

The plurality of first battery cells 11a can each have two contact poles (e.g. a positive pole and a negative pole), which can also be referred to below as first contact poles 12a. Electrical energy can be supplied to the respective first battery cells 11a and/or electrical energy can be removed from the respective first battery cells 11a via the respective first contact poles 12a. The respective first contact poles 12a can be arranged, for example, on the respective cover surfaces of the first battery cells 11a. The first contact poles 12a can, for example, have a substantially cuboid shape.

Furthermore, the plurality of first battery cells 11 a can each have a degassing element for releasing gas from the respective first battery cells 11 a (see, for example, 3 , 4 and 5 ). These respective degassing elements can also be referred to below as first degassing elements 18a. For example only, the respective first degassing elements 18a can each be designed in the form of a pressure relief valve and/or in the form of a material weakening or predetermined breaking point (e.g. in the form of a rupture disk). The respective first degassing elements 18a can open automatically when a pressure threshold value is exceeded inside the respective first battery cells 11a or within their cell housing. The respective first degassing elements 18a can thus serve to protect the respective first battery cells 11a from damaging overpressure. Accordingly, the respective first degassing elements 18a can be designed to allow a gas flow to escape from a respective interior of the cell housing, e.g. along a predetermined degassing path, into an environment of the respective first battery cell 11a. The respective first degassing elements 18a can each be arranged on the same side surface of the respective first battery cells 11a as the first contact poles 12a. For example, the respective first degassing elements 18a can be arranged on the respective cover surfaces of the first battery cells 11a (e.g. between the respective two first contact poles 12a). Accordingly, the first degassing elements 18a of the plurality of first battery cells 11a of the electrical energy storage device 10 can all be oriented upwards.

The plurality of first battery cells 11a can be arranged in one layer. Preferably, the plurality of first battery cells 11a are all oriented the same. For example, the respective cover surfaces, first contact poles 12a and/or first degassing elements 18a of the plurality of first battery cells 11a can each be oriented upwards. Furthermore, the plurality of first battery cells 11a can be arranged in a stack. The plurality of first battery cells 11a can be arranged, for example, in the form of a battery cell stack or several (e.g. two), preferably parallel, battery cell stacks arranged next to one another (cf., for example, 2A , 3 , 4 and 5 ). The multiple battery cell stacks can each be of the same design or each have the same number of first battery cells 11a (e.g. at least sixteen first battery cells 11a). Within a battery cell stack or within the battery cell stacks, the corresponding first battery cells 11a can be arranged stacked next to one another or one behind the other along a stacking direction. The stacking direction can be horizontal, for example. The multiple battery cell stacks can each have the same stacking direction. Furthermore, it is possible for a compensating element (e.g. a gap pad, not shown) to be arranged between two of the first battery cells 11a to bridge a gap between the first battery cells 11a of a battery cell stack. Furthermore, the multiple first battery cells 11a or the battery cell stack(s) can be fixed by means of a holding frame. The multiple first battery cells 11a can thus form a coherent cell pack (e.g. a soft stack).

Just like the plurality of first battery cells 11a, the plurality of second battery cells 11b can also form a (further) subset of the total number of battery cells of the electrical energy storage device 10, wherein this subset of the plurality of second battery cells 11b can also be referred to as a second subset for better differentiation. In the case of the previous example of the electrical energy storage device 10 with a total of sixty-four battery cells, in which thirty-two battery cells form the first subset, for example, the remaining thirty-two battery cells can form the second battery cells 11b or the second subset. As in the previous example, the first and second subsets preferably have an equal number of battery cells. However, the first and second subsets do not necessarily have to be half of the total number of battery cells each.

The plurality of second battery cells 11b can each be, for example, lithium-ion battery cells. The plurality of second battery cells 11b can each be designed identically. The plurality of second battery cells 11b can each have a Electrolyte and an electrode stack and/or electrode winding (not shown). The plurality of second battery cells 11b can furthermore each have a cell housing. The respective electrolyte and the respective electrode stack or electrode winding can be accommodated in the respective cell housings. The cell housing can have a top surface, a bottom surface and a shell surface connecting the top and bottom surfaces to one another. The plurality of second battery cells 11b are preferably prismatic battery cells. The plurality of second battery cells 11b or their respective cell housings can thus each have a cuboid shape.

The plurality of second battery cells 11b can each have two contact poles (e.g. a positive pole and a negative pole), which can also be referred to below as second contact poles 12b. Electrical energy can be supplied to the respective second battery cells 11b via the respective second contact poles 12b and/or electrical energy can be removed from the respective second battery cells 11b. The respective second contact poles 12b can be arranged, for example, on the respective cover surfaces of the second battery cells 11b. The second contact poles 12b can have a substantially cuboid shape.

Furthermore, the plurality of second battery cells 11b can each have a degassing element for releasing gas from the respective second battery cells 11b (see, for example, 3 , 4 and 5 ). These respective degassing elements can also be referred to below as second degassing elements 18b. For example only, the respective second degassing elements 18b can each be designed in the form of a pressure relief valve and/or in the form of a material weakening or predetermined breaking point (e.g. in the form of a bursting disk). The respective second degassing elements 18b can open automatically when a pressure threshold value is exceeded inside the respective second battery cells 11b or within their cell housing. The respective second degassing elements 18b can thus serve to protect the respective second battery cells 11b from damaging overpressure. Accordingly, the respective second degassing elements 18b can be designed to allow a gas flow to escape from a respective interior of the cell housing, e.g. along a predetermined degassing path, into an environment of the respective second battery cell 11b. The respective second degassing elements 18b can each be arranged on the same side surface of the respective second battery cells 11b as the second contact poles 12b. For example, the respective second degassing elements 18b can be arranged on the respective cover surfaces of the second battery cells 11b (e.g. between the respective two second contact poles 12b). Accordingly, the second degassing elements 18b of the plurality of second battery cells 11b of the electrical energy storage device 10 can all be oriented upwards.

The plurality of second battery cells 11b can be arranged in one layer. Preferably, the plurality of second battery cells 11b are arranged in the same layer as the plurality of first battery cells 11a. However, it is also possible for the plurality of first and second battery cells 11a and 11b to be arranged in different layers, e.g. one above the other. Preferably, the plurality of second battery cells 11b are all oriented in the same way. For example, the respective cover surfaces, second contact poles 12b and/or second degassing elements 18b of the plurality of second battery cells 11b can each be oriented upwards. Preferably, the plurality of second battery cells 11b are oriented in the same direction as the plurality of first battery cells 11a or the plurality of first and second battery cells 11a and 11b are all oriented the same (e.g. upwards). Furthermore, the plurality of second battery cells 11b can be arranged stacked. The plurality of second battery cells 11b can, for example, B. in the form of a battery cell stack or several (e.g. two), preferably parallel, battery cell stacks arranged next to each other (see e.g. 2A , 3 , 4 and 5 ). The multiple battery cell stacks can each be of the same design or each have the same number of second battery cells 11b (e.g. sixteen second battery cells 11b). Within a battery cell stack or within the battery cell stacks, the corresponding second battery cells 11b can be arranged stacked next to one another or one behind the other along a stacking direction. The stacking direction can be horizontal, for example. The multiple battery cell stacks can each have the same stacking direction. Furthermore, it is possible for a compensating element (e.g. a gap pad, not shown) to be arranged between two of the second battery cells 11b to bridge a gap between the second battery cells 11b of a battery cell stack. Furthermore, the multiple second battery cells 11b or the battery cell stack(s) can be fixed by means of a holding frame. The multiple second battery cells 11b can thus form a coherent cell pack (e.g. a soft stack).

As will be described in more detail below, the plurality of first and second battery cells 11a and 11b can be electrically connected or contacted with one another via the cell contact system 13. For example, All of the plurality of first battery cells 11a and all of the second battery cells 11b can be connected to one another in series via the cell contact system 13.

The cell contact system 13 has a first cover plate 14a, a second cover plate 14b and an electrical connection device 16 (see e.g. 1A and 1B) .

The first cover plate 14a covers the plurality of first battery cells 11a (see e.g. 2A , in which parts of the first cover plate 14a and the electrical connection device 16 have been omitted for visibility of the first battery cells 11a). For example, the first cover plate 14a can rest against the plurality of first battery cells 11a (e.g. rest on top of) or be in direct mechanical contact with the plurality of first battery cells 11a. The first cover plate 14a can thus be assigned to the plurality of first battery cells 11a. The first cover plate 14a can also be fastened to the plurality of first battery cells 11a. The first cover plate 14a is preferably arranged above the plurality of first battery cells 11a. The first cover plate 14a can thus span the first battery cells 11a, for example.

The first cover plate 14a further comprises passages (e.g. in the form of holes and/or recesses) for the first contact poles 12a, wherein these passages may also be referred to below as first passages 15a (cf. e.g. 1A) The first passages 15a can each completely penetrate the first cover plate 14a. Preferably, a number and/or arrangement of the first passages 15a corresponds to a number and/or arrangement of the first contact poles 12a. For example, one of the first contact poles 12a can be assigned to each of the first passages 15a of the first cover plate 14a. In the exemplary case that the plurality of first battery cells 11a are formed in the form of a stack of sixteen (or nineteen) prismatic battery cells, the respective first contact poles 12a of which are all oriented the same (e.g. upwards), the first cover plate 14a can have, for example, thirty-two (or thirty-eight) first passages 15a, which are arranged in the form of two parallel rows, each with sixteen (or nineteen) first passages 15a. Preferably, one of the first passages 15a is arranged above one of the first contact poles 12a.

The first passages 15a can also each have a shape adapted to a contour of a corresponding first contact pole 12a. For example, the first passages 15a can be essentially rectangular. Each of the first contact poles 12a can be accommodated or arranged in one of the first passages 15a, at least in sections. The first passages 15a are preferably all designed the same. For example, the first passages 15a can all have the same shape and/or size.

In addition to the first passages 15a, the first cover plate 14a can also have openings for the first degassing elements 18a, whereby these openings can also be referred to below as first openings 19a (see e.g. 3 ). The first openings 19a can also each completely penetrate the first cover plate 14a. Preferably, a number and/or arrangement of the first openings 19a corresponds to a number and/or arrangement of the first degassing elements 18a. For example, one of the first degassing elements 18a can be assigned to each of the first openings 19a of the first cover plate 14a. In the exemplary case that the plurality of first battery cells 11a are formed in the form of a stack of sixteen prismatic battery cells, the respective first degassing elements 18a of which are all oriented the same (e.g. upwards), the first cover plate 14a can, for example, have sixteen first openings 19a arranged in the form of a row. Preferably, one of the first openings 19a is arranged above one of the first degassing elements 18a. The first openings 19a can further each have a shape adapted to a contour of a corresponding first degassing element 18a.

The second cover plate 14b accordingly covers the plurality of second battery cells 11b (see e.g. 2A , in which parts of the second cover plate 14b and the electrical connection device 16 have been omitted for visibility of the second battery cells 11b). For example, the second cover plate 14b can abut against the plurality of second battery cells 11b (e.g. rest on top of) or be in direct mechanical contact with the plurality of second battery cells 11b. The second cover plate 14b can thus be assigned to the plurality of second battery cells 11b. The second cover plate 14b can be fastened to the plurality of second battery cells 11b. The second cover plate 14b is preferably arranged above the plurality of second battery cells 11b. The second cover plate 14b can span the second battery cells 11a, for example.

Furthermore, the second cover plate 14a also has passages (e.g. in the form of holes and/or recesses) for the second contact poles 12b, whereby these passages can also be referred to as second passages 15b. The second passages 15b can each completely penetrate the second cover plate 14b. Preferably, In this case, a number and/or arrangement of the second passages 15b corresponds to a number and/or arrangement of the second contact poles 12b. For example, one of the second contact poles 12b can be assigned to each of the second passages 15b of the second cover plate 14b. In the exemplary case that the plurality of second battery cells 11b are thus formed in the form of a stack of sixteen prismatic battery cells, the respective second contact poles 12b of which are all oriented the same (e.g. upwards), the second cover plate 14b can, for example, have thirty-two second passages 15b, which are arranged in the form of two parallel rows, each with sixteen second passages 15b. Preferably, one of the second passages 15b is arranged above one of the second contact poles 12b.

The second passages 15b can also each have a shape adapted to a contour of a corresponding second contact pole 12b. For example, the second passages 15b can be essentially rectangular. Each of the second contact poles 12b can be accommodated or arranged in one of the second passages 15b, at least in sections. The second passages 15b are preferably all designed the same. For example, the second passages 15b can all have the same shape and/or size.

In addition to the second passages 15b, the second cover plate 14b can also have openings for the second degassing elements 18b, wherein these openings can also be referred to below as second openings 19b (cf. e.g. 3 ). The second openings 19b can each completely penetrate the second cover plate 14b. Preferably, a number and/or arrangement of the second openings 19b corresponds to a number and/or arrangement of the second degassing elements 18b. For example, one of the second openings 19b of the second cover plate 14a can be assigned to one of the second degassing elements 18b. In the exemplary case that the plurality of second battery cells 11b are formed in the form of a stack of sixteen prismatic battery cells, the respective second degassing elements 18b of which are all oriented the same (e.g. upwards), the second cover plate 14b can, for example, have sixteen second openings 19b arranged in the form of a row. Preferably, one of the second openings 19b is arranged above one of the second degassing elements 18b. The second openings 19b can further each have a shape adapted to a contour of a corresponding second degassing element 18b.

Furthermore, it is provided that the first cover plate 14a and the second cover plate 14b are designed as identical parts (cf. e.g. 1A) . The first and second cover plates 14a and 14b should therefore preferably be exactly the same in terms of shape, size and material. Furthermore, the number and arrangement of the first passages 15a of the first cover plate 14a should preferably be the same as the number and arrangement of the second passages 15b of the second cover plate 14b. Accordingly, the number and arrangement of the first openings 19a of the first cover plate 14a should preferably be the same as the number and arrangement of the second openings 19b of the second cover plate 14b. The first and second cover plates 14b should therefore preferably be identical components.

The first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can each be plate-shaped. The first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can each have a flat and/or planar shape, for example. For example, the first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can be essentially rectangular. The first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can each have the same thickness everywhere, apart from the corresponding (first and second) passages. The first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can each have a thickness between 1 mm and 5 mm. The first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can each be made of plastic and/or a non-conductor.

The first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can be arranged in one plane (e.g. a horizontal plane). The first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can thus, for example, both be arranged at the same height in the electrical energy storage device 10. The first cover plate 14a can, for example, be arranged exclusively above the plurality of first battery cells 11a and/or the second cover plate 14b can, for example, be arranged exclusively above the plurality of second battery cells 11b. Furthermore, the first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can be arranged adjacent to one another or next to one another (cf. 2A or 2 B) . The first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can be directly adjacent to one another (e.g., be fastened to one another) or can be spaced apart from one another by an intermediate space.

It has already been explained that the cell contact system 13 has an electrical connection device 16 (e.g. in the form of several conductor pieces). By means of the electrical connection device 16, the plurality of first battery cells 11a and the plurality of second battery cells 11b are electrically connected to one another via the first and second passages 15a, 15b. By means of the electrical connection device 16 Thus, an electrically conductive connection can be formed between the plurality of first and second battery cells 11a and 11b. Preferably, all of the plurality of first battery cells 11a and all of the plurality of second battery cells 11b are connected to one another in series or in the form of a series circuit by means of the electrical connection device 16. For example, a meandering current path (cf. dashed line in 1B and 3 , 4 and 5 ) can be realized by the plurality of first and second battery cells 11a and 11b.

The electrical connection device 16 can be accommodated at least in sections in the first and second passages 15a and 15b. For example, the electrical connection device 16 can be guided through the first and second passages 15a, 15b or arranged at least in sections in the first and second passages 15a, 15b. The electrical connection device 16 can thus be connected to the first and second contact poles 12a, 12b, for example, via the first and second passages 15a, 15b. In this context, the first and second cover plates 14a and 14b or the first and second passages 15a and 15b can each serve as an assembly or insertion aid (remaining in the electrical energy storage device 10) for the electrical connection device 16 during the manufacture of the electrical energy storage device 10. For example, the electrical connection device 16 can first be inserted into the first and second passages 15a and 15b, which are preferably arranged corresponding to the first and second contact poles 12a, 12b, and then welded to the first and second contact poles 12a, 12b (e.g. by means of a welding robot). The first and second passages 15a and 15b can limit or prevent lateral movement of the electrical connection device 16. In this context, the first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can each be designed as a laying shape.

In one embodiment, the electrical connection device 16 can have a plurality of cell connectors 17, e.g. made of metal or a metal alloy (see e.g. 1B , 2A , 2 B , 3 , 4 and 5 ). The plurality of cell connectors 17 can each electrically connect two, preferably only two, battery cells from the total number of first and second battery cells 11a, 11b. Preferably, the plurality of cell connectors 17 each connect two adjacent or mutually adjacent battery cells. The plurality of cell connectors 17 can each be designed in the form of a conductor bridge. The plurality of cell connectors 17 can each have two (e.g. flat) end sections 17a, which are connected to one another via a (e.g. curved) connecting section 17b, preferably integrally (see side view in 1C ). The plurality of cell connectors 17 can thus have a bridge-shaped and/or bow-shaped form. The plurality of cell connectors 17 can each be accommodated in the first and/or second passages 15a and 15b. The respective end sections 17a are preferably arranged in the first and/or second passages 15a and 15b, while the connecting sections 17b preferably extend above the first and second cover plates 14a and 14b.

The plurality of cell connectors 17 may have at least one first cell connector 17.1, which electrically connects two (e.g. adjacent) first battery cells 11a (of the plurality of first battery cells 11a) to one another (cf. e.g. 1B , 2A , 2 B , 3 , 4 and 5 ). The at least one first cell connector 17.1 is preferably accommodated at least in sections in two of the first passages 15a. For example, one of the end sections 17a of the at least one first cell connector 17.1 can be accommodated in one of the first passages 15a and another of the end sections 17a of the at least one first cell connector 17.1 can be accommodated in another of the first passages 15a. The at least one first cell connector 17.1 can be enclosed or surrounded by the first cover plate 14a at least in sections (e.g. within a horizontal plane). A connecting section 17b of the at least one first cell connector 17.1 connecting the two end sections 17a can run above the first cover plate 14a. The at least one first cell connector 17.1 can be connected (e.g. welded) to two of the first contact poles 12a. For example, one of the end sections 17a of the at least one first cell connector 17.1 can be connected (e.g. welded) to one of the first contact poles 12a.

The plurality of cell connectors 17 may further comprise at least one second cell connector 17.2, which electrically connects two (e.g. adjacent) second battery cells 11b (of the plurality of second battery cells 11b) to one another (cf. e.g. 1B , 2A , 2 B , 3 , 4 and 5 ). Preferably, the at least one second cell connector 17.2 is accommodated at least in sections in two of the second passages 15b. For example, one of the end sections 17a of the at least one second cell connector 17.2 can be accommodated in one of the second passages 15b and another of the end sections 17a of the at least one second cell connector 17.2 can be accommodated in another of the second passages 15b. The at least one second cell connector 17.2 can be accommodated at least in sections (e.g. within a horizontal plane) by the second cover plate 14b. Furthermore, a connecting section 17b of the at least one second cell connector 17.2 connecting the two end sections 17a can run above the first cover plate 14a. The at least one second cell connector 17.2 can be connected (e.g. welded) to two of the first contact poles 12a. For example, one of the end sections 17a of the at least one second cell connector 17.2 can be connected (e.g. welded) to one of the first contact poles 12a.

Furthermore, the plurality of cell connectors 17 can have at least one plate cell connector 17.4, which electrically connects one of the first battery cells 11a (of the plurality of first battery cells 11a) and one of the second battery cells 11b (of the plurality of second battery cells 11b) to one another (cf. e.g. 1B , 2 B , 3 , 4 and 5 ). Preferably, the at least one plate cell connector 17.4 is accommodated at least in sections in one of the first passages 15a and at least in sections in one of the second passages 15b. For example, one of the end sections 17a of the at least one plate cell connector 17.4 can be accommodated in one of the first passages 15a and another of the end sections 17a of the at least one plate cell connector 17.4 can be accommodated in one of the second passages 15b. The at least one plate cell connector 17.4 can be enclosed or surrounded by the first cover plate 14a at least in sections (e.g. within a horizontal plane). Furthermore, the at least one plate cell connector 17.4 can be enclosed or surrounded by the second cover plate 14b at least in sections (e.g. within a horizontal plane). Furthermore, a connecting section 17b of the at least one plate cell connector 17.4 connecting the two end sections 17a can run above the first and second cover plates 14a, 14b. The at least one plate cell connector 17.4 can be connected (e.g. welded) to one of the first contact poles 12a and connected (e.g. welded) to one of the second contact poles 12b. For example, one of the end sections 17a of the at least one plate cell connector 17.4 can be connected (e.g. welded) to one of the first contact poles 12a and another of the end sections 17a of the at least one plate cell connector 17.4 can be connected (e.g. welded) to one of the second contact poles 12b. The first and second cover plates 14a and 14b can also be connected to one another via the at least one plate cell connector 17.4.

Above, the presence of a first and a second cover plate 14a and 14b (designed as identical parts) of the cell contact system 13 was primarily discussed. In addition to this, the cell contact system 13 can also have further cover plates (cf. 2 B and 5 ). For example only, the cell contact system 13 can further comprise a third cover plate 14c. The third cover plate 14c can cover a plurality of third battery cells 11c of the electrical energy storage device 10. For example, the third cover plate 14c can abut against the plurality of third battery cells 11c (e.g. rest on top of them) or be in direct mechanical contact with the plurality of third battery cells 11c. The third cover plate 14c can thus be assigned to the plurality of third battery cells 11c. The third cover plate 14c can, for example, be fastened to the plurality of third battery cells 11c. The third cover plate 14c is preferably arranged above the plurality of third battery cells 11c. The third cover plate 14c can thus, for example, span the third battery cells 11c.

Just like the plurality of first and second battery cells 11a and 11b, the plurality of third battery cells 11c can also form a (yet further) subset of the total number of battery cells of the electrical energy storage device 10, wherein this subset of the plurality of third battery cells 11c can also be referred to as a third subset for better differentiation. For example, the electrical energy storage device 10 can have a total of ninety-six battery cells, wherein thirty-two battery cells can form the first subset, a further thirty-two battery cells can form the second subset and the remaining thirty-two battery cells can form the third subset.

The plurality of third battery cells 11c can each be, for example, lithium-ion battery cells. The plurality of third battery cells 11c can all be designed the same. The plurality of third battery cells 11c can each have an electrolyte and an electrode stack and/or electrode winding (not shown). The plurality of third battery cells 11c can each have a cell housing. The respective electrolyte and the respective electrode stack or electrode winding can be accommodated in the respective cell housings. The cell housing can have a top surface, a bottom surface and a shell surface connecting the top and bottom surfaces to one another. The plurality of third battery cells 11c are preferably prismatic battery cells. The plurality of third battery cells 11c or their respective cell housings can thus each have a cuboid shape.

The plurality of third battery cells 11c can each have two contact poles (e.g. a positive pole and a negative pole), which can also be referred to below as third contact poles 12c. Via the respective third contact poles 12c, electrical energy can be supplied to the respective third battery cells 11c and/or electrical energy can be extracted from the respective third battery cells 11c. The respective third contact poles 12c can be arranged, for example, on the respective cover surfaces of the third battery cells 11c. The third contact poles 12c can, for example, have a substantially cuboid shape.

The plurality of third battery cells 11c can further each have a degassing element for releasing gas from the respective third battery cells 11c. These respective degassing elements can also be referred to below as third degassing elements 18c (cf. 5 ). For example only, the respective third degassing elements 18c can each be designed in the form of a pressure relief valve and/or in the form of a material weakening or predetermined breaking point (e.g. in the form of a bursting disk). The respective third degassing elements 18c can open automatically when a pressure threshold value is exceeded inside the respective third battery cells 11c or within their cell housing. The respective third degassing elements 18c can thus serve to protect the respective third battery cells 11c from damaging overpressure. Accordingly, the respective third degassing elements 18c can be designed to allow a gas flow to escape from a respective interior of the cell housing, e.g. along a predetermined degassing path, into an environment of the respective third battery cells 11c. The respective third degassing elements 18c can each be arranged on the same side surface of the respective third battery cells 11c as the third contact poles 12c. For example, the respective third degassing elements 18c can be arranged on the respective cover surfaces of the third battery cells 11c (e.g. between the respective two third contact poles 12c). Accordingly, the third degassing elements 18c of the plurality of third battery cells 11c of the electrical energy storage device 10 can all be oriented upwards.

The plurality of third battery cells 11c can be arranged in one layer. Preferably, the plurality of third battery cells 11c are arranged in the same layer as the plurality of first battery cells 11a and/or the plurality of second battery cells 11b. However, it is also possible for the plurality of first, second and third battery cells 11a, 11b, 11c to be arranged in different layers, e.g. one above the other. Preferably, the plurality of third battery cells 11c are all oriented in the same way. For example, the respective cover surfaces, third contact poles 12c and/or third degassing elements 18c of the plurality of third battery cells 11c can each be oriented upwards. Preferably, the plurality of third battery cells 11c are oriented in the same direction as the plurality of first battery cells 11a and second battery cells 11b, or the plurality of first, second and third battery cells 11a, 11b and 11c are all oriented in the same way (e.g. upwards). Furthermore, the plurality of third battery cells 11c can be arranged stacked. The plurality of third battery cells 11c can be arranged, for example, in the form of a battery cell stack or several (e.g. two), preferably parallel, battery cell stacks arranged next to one another. The plurality of battery cell stacks can each be of the same design or each have the same number of third battery cells 11c (e.g. sixteen third battery cells 11c). Within a battery cell stack or within the battery cell stacks, the corresponding third battery cells 11c can be arranged stacked next to one another or one behind the other along a stacking direction. The stacking direction can be oriented horizontally, for example. The plurality of battery cell stacks can each have the same stacking direction. It is also possible for a compensating element (e.g. a gap pad) to be arranged between two of the third battery cells 11c to bridge a gap between the third battery cells 11c of a battery cell stack. Furthermore, the plurality of third battery cells 11c or the battery cell stack(s) can be fixed by means of a holding frame. The plurality of third battery cells 11c can thus form a coherent cell package (e.g. a soft stack).

The third cover plate 14c, which can cover the plurality of third battery cells 11c, can have passages (e.g. in the form of holes and/or recesses) for the third contact poles 12c, wherein these passages can also be referred to as third passages 15c. The third passages 15c can each completely penetrate the third cover plate 14c. Preferably, a number and/or arrangement of the third passages 15c corresponds to a number and/or arrangement of the third contact poles 12c. For example, one of the third contact poles 12c can be assigned to each of the third passages 15c of the third cover plate 14c. The third passages 15c can have a shape adapted to a contour of a corresponding third contact pole 12c. For example, the third passages 15c can be essentially rectangular. Each of the third contact poles 12c can be accommodated or arranged in one of the third passages 15c, at least in sections. Preferably, the third passages 15c are all designed the same. For example, the third passages 15c can all have the same shape and/or size.

In addition to the third passages 15c, the third cover plate 14c can also have openings for the third degassing elements 18c, whereby these openings can also be referred to below as third openings 19c. The third openings 19c can also each completely penetrate the third cover plate 14c. Preferably, a number and/or arrangement of the third openings 19c corresponds to a number and/or arrangement of the third degassing elements 18c. For example, one of the third openings 19c of the third cover plate 14c can be assigned to one of the third degassing elements 18a. Preferably, one of the third openings 19c is arranged above one of the third degassing elements 18c. The third openings 19c can also each have a shape adapted to a contour of a corresponding third degassing element 18c.

Preferably, the first, second and third cover plates 14a, 14b and 14c are designed as identical parts (cf. 2 B and 5 ). The first, second and third cover plates 14a, 14b, 14c should therefore preferably be exactly the same in terms of shape, size and material, for example. Accordingly, the third cover plate 14c can also have the optional properties of the first or second cover plates 14a, 14b already described (e.g. a thickness of between 1 mm and 5 mm). The first, second and third cover plates 14a, 14b and 14c can be arranged in one plane (e.g. a horizontal plane). The first, second and third cover plates 14a, 14b, 14c can thus all be arranged at the same height in the electrical energy storage device 10, for example. The first, second and third cover plates 14a, 14b, 14c are preferably arranged in alignment or along a straight line in the electrical energy storage device 10. For example, the second cover plate 14b can be arranged between the first and third cover plates 14a, 14c.

Furthermore, the plurality of first, second and third battery cells 11a, 11b and 11c can be electrically connected to one another via the first, second and third passages 15a, 15b, 15c by means of the electrical connection device 16. Preferably, all of the plurality of first battery cells 11a, all of the plurality of second battery cells 11b and all of the plurality of third battery cells 11c are connected to one another in series or in the form of a series connection by means of the electrical connection device 16. For example, a meandering current path through the plurality of first, second and third battery cells 11a, 11b and 11c can be realized by means of the electrical connection device 16. In this case, the electrical connection device 16 can also be accommodated in the third passages 15c at least in sections and/or guided through the third passages 15c. For example, the plurality of cell connectors 17 of the electrical connection device 16 can have at least one third cell connector 17.1, which electrically connects two (e.g. adjacent) third battery cells 11c (of the plurality of third battery cells 11c) to one another. The at least one third cell connector 17.3 can be connected (e.g. welded) to two of the third contact poles 12c.

Furthermore, the plurality of cell connectors 17 can have at least one further plate cell connector 17.4', which electrically connects one of the second battery cells 11b (of the plurality of second battery cells 11b) and one of the third battery cells 11c (of the plurality of third battery cells 11c) to one another (cf. 2 B and 5 ). Preferably, the at least one further plate cell connector 17.4' is at least partially accommodated in one of the second passages 15b and at least partially accommodated in one of the third passages 15c. For example, one of the end sections 17a of the at least one further plate cell connector 17.4` can be accommodated in one of the second passages 15b and another of the end sections 17a of the at least one further plate cell connector 17.4' can be accommodated in one of the third passages 15c. The at least one further plate cell connector 17.4' can be connected (e.g. welded) to one of the second contact poles 12b and connected (e.g. welded) to one of the third contact poles 12c. For example, one of the end sections 17a of the at least one further plate cell connector 17.4' can be connected (e.g. welded) to one of the second contact poles 12b and another of the end sections 17a of the at least one further plate cell connector 17.4' can be connected (e.g. welded) to one of the third contact poles 12c. The second and third cover plates 14b and 14c can thus be connected to one another via the at least one further plate cell connector 17.4'.

Although the invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not intended to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but is intended to include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims independently of the claims referred to.

List of reference symbols

10

Electrical energy storage

11a

First battery cells

11b

Second battery cells

11c

Third battery cells

12a

First contact points

12b

Second contact poles

12c

Third contact poles

13

Cell contact system

14a

First cover plate

14b

Second cover plate

14c

Third cover plate

15a

First rounds

15b

Second rounds

15c

Third rounds

16

Electrical connection device

17

Cell connectors

17.1

First cell connector

17.2

Second cell connector

17.3

Third cell connector

17.4

Plate cell connector

17.4

Additional plate cell connector

17a

End section

17b

Connecting section

18a

First degassing element

18b

Second degassing element

18c

Third degassing element

19a

First openings

19b

Second openings

19c

Third openings

Claims (15)

Electrical energy storage device (10) for a motor vehicle, preferably a commercial vehicle, comprising: a plurality of first battery cells (11a), each with two first contact poles (12a); a plurality of second battery cells (11b), each with two second contact poles (12b); and a cell contacting system (13), comprising: a first cover plate (14a) which covers the plurality of first battery cells (11a) and has first passages (15a) for the first contact poles (12a); a second cover plate (14b) which covers the plurality of second battery cells (11b) and has second passages (15b) for the second contact poles (12b); wherein the first cover plate (14a) and the second cover plate (14b) are designed as identical parts; and an electrical connection device (16) by means of which the plurality of first battery cells (11a) and the plurality of second battery cells (11b) are electrically connected to one another, preferably in series, via the first and second passages (15a, 15b). Electrical energy storage (10) according to Claim 1 , wherein: a) the electrical connection device (16) is accommodated at least in sections in the first and second passages (15a, 15b); and/or b) all of the plurality of first battery cells (11a) and all of the plurality of second battery cells (11b) are connected to one another in series by means of the electrical connection device (16); and/or c) the electrical connection device (16) is welded to the plurality of first and second battery cells (11a, 11b). Electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: a) the first cover plate (14a) and the second cover plate (14b) are arranged in one plane; and/or b) the first cover plate (14a) and the second cover plate (14b) are arranged adjacent to one another and/or adjacent to one another; and/or c) the first cover plate (14a) is arranged above the plurality of first battery cells (11a) and/or the second cover plate (14b) is arranged above the plurality of second battery cells (11a); and/or d) the first cover plate (14a) rests against the plurality of first battery cells (11a) and/or the second cover plate (14b) rests against the plurality of second battery cells (11a). Electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first cover plate (14a) and the second cover plate (14b) each: a) are made of plastic; and/or b) have a thickness between 1 mm and 5 mm; and/or c) are substantially rectangular. Electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: a) the first passages (15a) of the first cover plate (14a) are each: a1) assigned to one of the first contact poles (12a); and/or a2) are arranged above one of the first contact poles (12a); and/or a3) are arranged in alignment with one of the first contact poles (12a); and/or b) the second passages (15b) of the second cover plate (14a) are each: b1) assigned to one of the second contact poles (12b); and/or b2) are arranged above one of the second contact poles (12b); and/or b3) are arranged in alignment with one of the second contact poles (12b). Electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the plurality of first battery cells (11a) and the plurality of second battery cells (11b) are each prismatic battery cells, wherein preferably the respective two contact poles are oriented upwards. Electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: a) the plurality of first battery cells (11a) are arranged in a stacked manner, preferably in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks, each with at least sixteen first battery cells (11a); and/or b) the plurality of second battery cells (11b) are arranged in a stacked manner, preferably in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks, each with at least sixteen second battery cells (11a). Electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: a1) the first passages (15a) are arranged in the form of several rows, which are preferably arranged offset parallel to one another; and/or a2) the first passages (15a) each completely penetrate the first cover plate (14a); and/or b1) the second passages (15b) are arranged in the form of several rows, which are preferably arranged offset parallel to one another; and/or b2) the second passages (15b) each completely penetrate the second cover plate (14b). Electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the electrical connection device (16) has a plurality of cell connectors (17), which preferably each: electrically connect two battery cells from a total of the first and second battery cells (11a, 11b) to one another; and/or has two flat end sections (17a) which are connected to one another via a curved connecting section (17b), preferably in one piece; and/or are made of a metal or a metal alloy. Electrical energy storage (10) according to Claim 9 , wherein the plurality of cell connectors (17) comprise: a) at least one first cell connector (17.1) which electrically connects two, preferably adjacent, first battery cells (11a) to one another and is accommodated at least in sections in two of the first passages (15a); and/or b) at least one second cell connector (17.2) which electrically connects two, preferably adjacent, second battery cells (11b) to one another and is accommodated at least in sections in two of the second passages (15b); and/or c) at least one plate cell connector (17.4) which electrically connects one of the first battery cells (11a) and one of the second battery cells (11b) to one another and is accommodated at least in sections in one of the first passages (15a) and at least in sections in one of the second passages (15b). Electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: a) the plurality of first battery cells (11 a) each have a first degassing element (18a) for cell degassing and the first cover plate (14a) has first openings (19a) for the first degassing elements (18a), wherein the first openings (19a) are preferably arranged above one of the first degassing elements (18a); and/or b) the plurality of second battery cells (11b) each have a second degassing element (18b) for cell degassing and the second cover plate (14b) has second openings (19b) for the second degassing elements (18b), wherein the second openings (19b) are preferably arranged above one of the second degassing elements (18b). Electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the plurality of first battery cells (11a) have thirty-two first battery cells (11a) arranged in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks each with sixteen first battery cells (11a); the plurality of second battery cells (11b) have thirty-two second battery cells (11a) arranged in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks each with sixteen second battery cells (11b); the first cover plate (14a) has sixty-four first passages (16a) arranged in the form of four parallel rows each with sixteen first passages (16a); and the second cover plate (14b) has sixty-four second passages (16b) arranged in the form of four parallel rows each with sixteen second passages (16b). Electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a plurality of third battery cells (11c), each with two third contact poles (12c); wherein the cell contacting system (13) further comprises: a third cover plate (14c) which covers the plurality of third battery cells (11c) and has third passages (15c) for the third contact poles (12c); wherein the first, second and third cover plates (14a, 14b, 14c) are designed as identical parts; and the electrical connection device (16) electrically connects the plurality of first, second and third battery cells (11a, 11b, 11c) to one another, preferably in series, via the first, second and third passages (15a, 15b, 15c). Electrical energy storage according to Claim 12 and Claim 13 , wherein: the plurality of third battery cells (11c) comprises thirty-two third battery cells (11c) arranged in the form of two parallel battery cell stacks each having sixteen third battery cells (11c); and the third cover plate (14c) comprises sixty-four third passages (15c) arranged in the form of four parallel rows each having sixteen third passages (15c). Motor vehicle, preferably commercial vehicle, comprising an electrical energy storage device (10) according to one of the preceding claims.

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