Battery pack and powered device

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a battery pack and an electrical device. The battery pack includes a housing and a switching structure. The housing has a battery compartment for housing individual battery cells, an electrical compartment for housing electrical components, and a pressure relief channel communicating with a pressure relief component connected to the individual battery cells. The housing is provided with a pressure relief structure, and the pressure relief channel can communicate with the outside of the housing through the pressure relief structure. The switching structure is connected to the housing and located between the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel, and the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel are connected or isolated through the switching structure. Through the above technical solution, the battery pack provided by this disclosure can meet the requirements for airtightness testing of the entire battery pack while also improving the safety of the battery pack.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of battery pack technology, and more specifically, to a battery pack and an electrical device. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, how to meet the requirements of airtightness testing of the entire battery pack while ensuring high safety has become a research goal for industry professionals. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a battery pack and electrical equipment that can meet the requirements of the battery pack's airtightness offline testing while also improving the safety of the battery pack.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of this disclosure provides a battery pack, comprising: a housing having a battery compartment for accommodating individual battery cells, an electrical compartment for accommodating electrical components, and a pressure relief channel communicating with a pressure relief member of the individual battery cells; the housing having a pressure relief structure, and the pressure relief channel communicating with the outside of the housing through the pressure relief structure; and A switch structure is connected to the housing and located between the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel, wherein the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel are connected or disconnected through the switch structure.

[0005] Optionally, the switch structure is configured to change the on / off state of the switch structure under preset instructions and / or preset conditions; The preset instructions include an on command and an off command; and / or, The preset conditions include at least one of preset pressure, preset temperature, and preset substance.

[0006] Optionally, the switch structure includes a valve body and a valve core, the valve body having a fluid channel, and the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel being connected through the fluid channel; The valve core is configured to open or close the fluid passage according to the preset command; or... The valve core is configured to open or close the fluid passage under preset conditions.

[0007] Optionally, the valve body is disposed within the electrical compartment and the valve core includes a first baffle. The first baffle is connected to the valve body via an elastic reset member and seals the outlet of the valve body. The elastic reset member is used to provide the first baffle with an elastic force to seal the outlet.

[0008] Optionally, a seal and / or buffer is provided between the first baffle and the valve body.

[0009] Optionally, the battery pack includes a buffer structure adapted to form a communicating cavity, the fluid channel being closably connected to the communicating cavity via the outlet and the first baffle, and the buffer structure having a connecting port connecting the electrical compartment and the communicating cavity.

[0010] Optionally, the location of the connection port is configured such that the discharge path of the connection port avoids at least part of the electrical components.

[0011] Optionally, the buffer structure includes a buffer cover, which covers the switch structure and is connected to the housing. A communication channel is formed between the buffer cover and the switch structure, and the communication port is provided on the buffer cover.

[0012] Optionally, the switch structure further includes a first information acquisition element, which is used to connect to the controller signal. The first information acquisition element is configured to acquire the deformation information of the elastic reset element, so that the controller can monitor the opening and closing state of the switch structure based on the deformation information.

[0013] Optionally, the first information acquisition device includes a resistance strain gauge.

[0014] Optionally, the switch structure further includes a drive element configured to drive the valve core to open or close the fluid passage under the preset command.

[0015] Optionally, the switch structure further includes a second information acquisition element, which is used to connect to the controller signal. The second information acquisition element is configured to acquire information in the pressure relief channel, so that the controller can output the preset command according to the information to control the drive element to drive the valve core to open or close the fluid channel.

[0016] Optionally, the information includes at least one of the pressure information within the pressure relief channel, the temperature information within the pressure relief channel, and the liquid level information within the pressure relief channel; and / or, The second information acquisition device includes at least one of a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, and a liquid level sensor.

[0017] Optionally, the housing includes a base plate assembly and a frame, the frame being arranged circumferentially around the base plate assembly; At least one of the base plate assembly and the frame is provided with at least a portion of the pressure relief channel, and at least one of the base plate assembly and the frame is provided with the switch structure.

[0018] Optionally, the battery pack further includes a cover, the cover, the frame, and the base plate assembly forming a receiving space, in which the battery compartment and the electrical compartment are located; or, The battery pack also includes a cover and a maintenance cover. The cover, the frame, and the base plate assembly form a receiving space. The battery compartment is located in the receiving space. The maintenance cover is located on the side of the cover away from the receiving space. The electrical compartment is located between the maintenance cover and the cover. The switch structure is provided on the frame.

[0019] Optionally, the base plate assembly includes a first plate and a second plate, the first plate supporting the battery cell, at least a portion of the pressure relief channel forming between the first plate and the second plate, and the switch structure being disposed on the first plate; and / or, The frame has a cavity forming at least part of the pressure relief channel, and the switch structure is provided on the inner wall or top wall of the frame.

[0020] Optionally, the switch structure is provided on the inner wall of the frame, and the switch structure is arranged adjacent to the top wall of the frame.

[0021] A second aspect of this disclosure provides an electrical device including the battery pack provided in the first aspect.

[0022] Through the above-described technical solution, namely the battery pack provided in this disclosure, the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel are connected or disconnected through a switch structure. That is, it can be understood that by constructing the switch structure with an open and closed state, when the switch structure is in the open state, the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel can be connected through the switch structure to meet the requirements of the overall airtightness test of the battery pack. In other words, the electrical compartment can be connected to the pressure relief structure through the pressure relief channel, and the airtightness test requirements of the pressure relief channel and the electrical compartment can be achieved simultaneously. In this way, when the overall airtightness test of the battery pack is conducted, the interference of internal leakage problems between multiple spaces (such as the pressure relief channel and the electrical compartment) inside the battery pack can be eliminated, so as to more accurately detect the external leakage points between the battery pack and the external environment, improve the reliability of the test, and help ensure that the battery pack has high sealing performance and safety. Furthermore, when the switch structure is in the closed state, the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel can be isolated by the switch structure. In other words, the connection between the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel can be cut off by the switch structure, thereby reducing the risk of substances in the pressure relief channel entering the electrical compartment and causing short circuits to electrical components, which helps to improve the safety of the battery pack.

[0023] Other features and advantages of this disclosure will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the present disclosure and form part of the specification. They are used together with the following detailed description to explain the present disclosure, but do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the battery pack provided in the first embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the battery pack structure after the cover is removed according to the first embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of the middle F position; Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of a portion of the G position; Figure 5 This is a top view of the battery pack after the cover has been removed, according to the first embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Cross-sectional view at position AA; Figure 7 yes Figure 5 Cross-sectional view at position BB; Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of the area at position C in the middle; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the switch structure provided in the second embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 10 yes Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of position D in the middle; Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Cross-sectional view of the EE location; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the switch structure provided in the third embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the switch structure provided in the fourth embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the switch structure provided in the fifth embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the switch structure provided in the sixth embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the battery pack provided in the second embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack provided in the second embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 18 yes Figure 17A magnified view of the middle K position.

[0025] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1-Housing; 110-Battery compartment; 120-Electrical compartment; 130-Pressure relief channel; 140-Base plate assembly; 141-First plate; 142-Second plate; 143-Outer bottom surface; 150-Frame; 151-Cavity; 152-Inner wall; 153-Top wall; 160-Cover; 170-Accommodation space; 180-Maintenance cover; 190-Divider plate; 2-Battery cell; 210-Pressure relief component; 3-Electrical component; 4-Switch structure; 4 10-Valve body; 411-Fluid passage; 412-Outlet; 420-Valve core; 421-First baffle; 430-Elastic reset element; 440-Sealing and / or buffer element; 5-Buffer structure; 510-Buffer cover; 511-Connecting cavity; 512-Connecting port; 513-Buffer part; 5131-First outer shell; 5132-Function funnel structure; 5133-Second outer shell; 5134-Second baffle; 5135-Through hole; 6-Pressure relief structure. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0027] It should be noted that all actions involving the acquisition of signals, information, or data in this disclosure are carried out in compliance with the relevant data protection laws and policies of the country where the location is situated, and with authorization from the owner of the relevant device.

[0028] In this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of the component or structure itself. Furthermore, it should be noted that terms such as "first" and "second" are used to distinguish one element from another and do not indicate sequence or importance. Additionally, in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals in different drawings denote the same elements.

[0029] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a battery pack is provided, with reference to... Figures 1 to 18 As shown, the battery pack includes a housing 1 and a switch structure 4. The housing 1 has a battery compartment 110 for accommodating individual battery cells 2, an electrical compartment 120 for accommodating electrical components 3, and a pressure relief channel 130 connected to a pressure relief component 210 of the individual battery cells 2. A pressure relief structure 6 is provided on the housing 1, and the pressure relief channel 130 can communicate with the outside of the housing 1 through the pressure relief structure 6. The switch structure 4 is connected to the housing 1 and located between the electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130. The electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130 are connected or disconnected through the switch structure 4.

[0030] Through the above-described technical solution, namely the battery pack provided in this disclosure, the battery pack connects or disconnects the electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130 through a switch structure 4. That is, it can be understood that by constructing the switch structure 4 to have an open state and a closed state, when the switch structure 4 is in the open state, the electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130 can be connected through the switch structure 4 to meet the requirements of the airtightness test of the entire battery pack. That is, the electrical compartment 120 can be connected to the pressure relief structure 6 through the pressure relief channel 130, and the airtightness test requirements of the pressure relief channel 130 and the electrical compartment 120 can be realized simultaneously. In this way, when the airtightness test of the entire battery pack is performed, the interference of internal leakage problems between multiple spaces inside the battery pack (such as the pressure relief channel 130 and the electrical compartment 120) can be eliminated, so as to more accurately detect the external leakage point between the battery pack and the external environment, improve the reliability of the test, and help ensure that the battery pack has high sealing performance and safety. Furthermore, when, for example, the switch structure 4 is in the closed state, the electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130 can be isolated by the switch structure 4. That is to say, the connection between the electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130 can be cut off by the switch structure 4, thereby reducing the risk of substances in the pressure relief channel 130 entering the electrical compartment 120 and causing a short circuit to the electrical components 3, which helps to improve the safety of the battery pack.

[0031] It should be noted that, in order to improve the safety of the battery pack, reference should be made to... Figures 1 to 15 As shown, the battery compartment 110 and the electrical compartment 120 can be separated by, for example, a partition 190. This arrangement separates the electrical components 3 in the electrical compartment 120 from the battery cells 2 in the battery compartment 110, ensuring stable operation of the battery pack and improving its safety. The present disclosure does not specifically limit the structure of the partition 190; those skilled in the art can design it adaptably according to actual application requirements.

[0032] It is understood that the partition plate 190 may not completely separate the electrical compartment 120 and the battery compartment 110. That is, the electrical compartment 120 and the battery compartment 110 may be connected through the gap above the partition plate 190, or the partition plate 190 may completely separate the electrical compartment 120 and the battery compartment 110. This disclosure does not specifically limit this. Furthermore, if, for example, the electrical compartment 120 and the battery compartment 110 are connected, during the airtightness test of the entire battery pack, since the electrical compartment 120 and the battery compartment 110 are connected, the airtightness test of the pressure relief channel 130, the electrical compartment 120, and the battery compartment 110 can be performed simultaneously, which helps to reduce the testing time and improve the testing efficiency. In addition, during the airtightness test of the entire battery pack, the airtightness test can be performed through, for example, the pressure relief structure 6. This disclosure is not limited to this.

[0033] In addition, the substances in the aforementioned pressure relief channel 130 may include, but are not limited to, high-temperature and high-pressure gases, particulate mixtures and electrolytes ejected from the pressure relief component 210 (e.g., explosion-proof valve, pressure relief valve or safety valve, etc.) of the battery cell 2 during thermal runaway, and liquids that enter the pressure relief channel 130 when the base plate assembly 140 (which will be described in detail below) is submerged in water.

[0034] Furthermore, the aforementioned electrical compartment 120 can also be referred to as a high-voltage compartment. The electrical components 3 may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: a battery management system, connecting copper busbars, high-voltage busbars, high-voltage relays / contactors, fuses, high-voltage connectors, voltage sensors, temperature sensors, and current sensors. The battery cells 2 may be in the form of pouch cells, prismatic cells, or cylindrical cells; this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0035] In some embodiments, the switch structure 4 can be configured to change its open / closed state under preset commands and / or preset conditions, so that the switch structure 4 can adaptively adjust its open / closed state under different usage scenarios. For example, during the airtightness test of the entire battery pack, the switch structure 4 can be adjusted to the open state, so that the electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130 can be connected through the switch structure 4 to meet the requirements of the airtightness test of the entire battery pack. However, in cases such as thermal runaway or water immersion in the base plate assembly 140, the switch structure 4 can be adjusted to the closed state, so that the connection between the electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130 can be cut off through the switch structure 4. This can reduce the risk of short circuits caused by high-temperature and high-pressure gas and / or liquid and / or particulate mixtures entering the electrical compartment 120, thereby helping to improve the safety of the battery pack.

[0036] The aforementioned preset instructions may include, for example, an open instruction and a close instruction; in addition, the aforementioned preset conditions may include, for example, at least one of preset pressure, preset temperature, and preset substance. This disclosure is not limited to these. Its purpose is to enable the switch structure 4 to adaptively adjust its open and closed state under different usage scenarios.

[0037] Exemplarily, in some implementations, reference is made to Figures 7 to 13As shown, the switch structure 4 may include a valve body 410 and a valve core 420. The valve body 410 has a fluid channel 411. The electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130 are connected through the fluid channel 411. The valve core 420 may be configured to open or close the fluid channel 411 according to a preset command (e.g., an opening command or a closing command). Alternatively, the valve core 420 may also be configured to open or close the fluid channel 411 under preset conditions (e.g., preset pressure, preset temperature, preset substance, or one or more of these). This disclosure does not specifically limit such modifications. Those skilled in the art can adaptively design the switch structure 4 according to actual application requirements.

[0038] For example, in some implementations, reference Figure 7 , Figure 8 as well as Figure 11 As shown, the valve body 410 of the switch structure 4 can be disposed within the electrical compartment 120, and the valve core 420 can include a first baffle 421. The first baffle 421 is connected to the valve body 410 via an elastic reset member 430 and covers the outlet 412 of the valve body 410. The elastic reset member 430 is used to provide the first baffle 421 with elastic force to cover the outlet 412. This arrangement allows the switch structure 4 to be in a closed state under normal conditions, reducing the risk of short circuits to electrical components 3 caused by liquid and / or particulate mixtures entering the electrical compartment 120, and helping to improve the safety of the battery pack.

[0039] The aforementioned elastic reset member 430 may include, for example, a spring or a tension spring. This disclosure does not specifically limit such deformation methods. Those skilled in the art can design it adaptively according to actual application needs. The purpose is to provide the first baffle 421 with the elastic force to seal the outlet 412.

[0040] Additionally, it should be noted that during, for example, the airtightness test of the entire battery pack, the pressure in the pressure relief channel 130 will increase due to the introduction of airtightness test gas. When the pressure in the pressure relief channel 130 exceeds the elastic force of the elastic reset member 430, the first baffle 421 will open the outlet 412 of the valve body 410. That is, it can be understood that the switch structure 4 will be passively opened under the action of air pressure, allowing the electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130 to be connected through the switch structure 4, so as to meet the battery's requirements. The battery pack is designed for airtightness testing. After the airtightness test, the airtightness test gas is discharged from the battery pack, reducing the pressure in the pressure relief channel 130. When the pressure in the pressure relief channel 130 drops below the elastic force of the elastic reset member 430, the first baffle 421 will automatically reset to the position where the elastic reset member 430 covers the outlet 412. This switches the electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130, thus automatically switching the switch to the closed position. The overall structure is relatively simple and easy to install and operate.

[0041] In summary, it can be understood that the preset pressure of the above preset conditions may include, for example, the air pressure in the pressure relief channel 130 when the switch structure 4 is passively opened during the battery pack airtightness offline test.

[0042] Furthermore, considering that in the event of thermal runaway of the battery pack, high-temperature and high-pressure gas will be ejected from the pressure relief component 210 of the battery cell 2, which will also increase the pressure in the pressure relief channel 130, and when the pressure in the pressure relief channel 130 rises to exceed the elastic force of the elastic reset component 430, the switch structure 4 may be opened. Therefore, in order to reduce the risk of thermal runaway gas entering the electrical compartment 120 and causing a short circuit to the electrical components 3, in some embodiments, refer to Figure 9 and Figure 12 As shown, the battery pack may also include a buffer structure 5, which is adapted to form a connecting cavity 511. The fluid channel 411 is closably connected to the connecting cavity 511 through an outlet 412 and a first baffle 421. The buffer structure 5 is provided with a connecting port 512 connecting the electrical compartment 120 and the connecting cavity 511. With this arrangement, the buffer structure 5 can, for example, prevent the high-temperature and high-pressure gas from entering the connecting cavity 511 during thermal runaway. This can change the flow direction of the high-temperature and high-pressure gas by stopping it, absorb part of the impact force of the high-temperature and high-pressure gas, and achieve buffering and energy absorption of the high-temperature and high-pressure gas. This reduces the gas temperature and / or gas pressure, thereby reducing the risk of short circuits caused by the high-temperature and high-pressure gas entering the electrical compartment 120. This protects the electrical components 3 and helps improve the safety of the entire battery pack.

[0043] Furthermore, due to the buffer structure 5, in the event of thermal runaway, the electrical compartment 120 and the pressure relief channel 130 can be connected through the switch structure 4, forming a large connected space within the battery pack. In this way, the instantaneous high temperature and high pressure during thermal runaway of the battery pack can not only be weakened by the buffer structure 5, but also be released and absorbed through the large space, which helps to reduce the local pressure within the space and reduce the possibility of battery pack deformation, abnormal noise, rupture, or explosion. Moreover, by absorbing the instantaneous high temperature and high pressure through the large space, the risk of thermal spread of the battery cells 2 within the battery compartment 110 can be reduced, which helps to improve the safety of the entire battery pack.

[0044] It should be noted that, since a pressure relief structure 6 can be provided on the housing 1, for example, at least one of the base plate assembly 140 (described in detail below) and the frame 150 (described in detail below) of the housing 1 can be provided with a pressure relief structure 6 communicating with the pressure relief channel 130, so that the pressure relief channel 130 can be connected to the outside of the housing 1 through the pressure relief structure 6. In this way, for example, in the event of thermal runaway of the battery pack, even if the instantaneous high temperature and high pressure can be absorbed by the large space, thereby reducing the local pressure in the space, since the air pressure in the pressure relief channel 130 during thermal runaway is much higher than the opening pressure of the pressure relief structure 6, the pressure relief structure 6 can still be ensured to open quickly to relieve the pressure in the pressure relief channel 130 during the event of thermal runaway of the battery pack. For example, the air pressure in the battery pack can be 3.5 kPa-5 kPa during the airtightness test, and the air pressure in the battery pack can be greater than 7 kPa during thermal runaway. This disclosure is not limited to this.

[0045] In addition, the pressure relief structure 6 may include, for example, an explosion-proof valve, a pressure relief valve, or a safety valve, etc., which are not specifically limited in this disclosure.

[0046] Exemplarily, in some implementations, reference is made to Figure 9 and Figure 12 As shown, the buffer structure 5 may include a buffer cover 510, which covers the switch structure 4 and is connected to the housing 1. A communicating cavity 511 is formed between the buffer cover 510 and the switch structure 4, and a communicating port 512 is provided on the buffer cover 510. This allows the flow direction of the high-temperature and high-pressure gas to be changed by the stop of the buffer structure 5, absorbing part of the impact force of the high-temperature and high-pressure gas, and achieving the purpose of buffering and absorbing energy from the high-temperature and high-pressure gas. The specific shape and structure of the buffer cover 510 are not specifically limited, and those skilled in the art can design it adaptively according to actual application requirements, such as a square or cylindrical shape.

[0047] Additionally, in some implementations, references Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, a buffer section 513 may be provided at the connection port 512, wherein, exemplarily, as... Figure 14As shown, the buffer section 513 may include a first outer shell 5131 with a channel for material to flow through, and a funnel structure 5132 disposed in the channel. The channel is connected to the connecting cavity 511, and the inner diameter of the funnel structure 5132 gradually decreases along the flow path of the material toward the electrical compartment 120. This arrangement can meet the requirements of airtightness testing, change the flow direction of the material, absorb some of the impact force of the material, achieve the purpose of buffering and absorbing energy of the material, and reduce the risk of short circuit caused by metal particles entering the electrical compartment 120. The overall structure is relatively simple and can further improve the safety of the battery pack.

[0048] Of course, the specific embodiment of the buffer section 513 described above is exemplary; in other embodiments, such as... Figure 15 As shown, the buffer section 513 may also include a second outer shell 5133 with a channel for material flow, and multiple second baffles 5134 disposed within the channel. The channel is connected to the connecting cavity 511, and the multiple second baffles 5134 are arranged sequentially along the material flow path. Furthermore, each second baffle 5134 has a through hole 5135 for material flow. The through holes 5135 on adjacent second baffles 5134 are staggered in a direction perpendicular to the flow path. This arrangement allows the second baffles 5134 to stop and change, for example, the flow direction of the material, absorb at least part of the impact force of the material, and buffer and absorb energy from the material, reducing the risk of short circuits caused by high-temperature, high-pressure gas entering the electrical chamber 120 and thus improving the safety of the battery pack. This disclosure is not limited to this; it is understood that those skilled in the art can adaptively design the specific structure of the buffer section 513 according to application requirements. The purpose is to achieve stopping and changing, for example, the flow direction of the material, absorbing at least part of the impact force of the material, and buffering and absorbing energy from the material through the buffer section 513.

[0049] Furthermore, considering the need to prevent, for example, high-temperature, high-pressure gases from directly blowing into electrical components 3 within the electrical compartment 120 during thermal runaway, in some embodiments, the position of the connection port 512 can be configured such that the discharge path of the connection port 512 avoids at least part of the electrical components 3. This prevents high-temperature, high-pressure gases from directly blowing into the electrical components 3 within the electrical compartment 120 during thermal runaway, thereby protecting the electrical components 3 and improving the overall safety of the battery pack. Moreover, since the buffer structure 5 connects the electrical compartment 120 and the connecting cavity 511 via the connection port 512, and the inner diameter of the connection port 512 is typically small, the risk of short circuits caused by metal particles (due to the processing technology of the frame 150, metal particles are easily present in the cavity 151 of the frame 150) or a mixture of particles entering the electrical compartment 120 and causing short circuits to the electrical components 3 is also reduced, further enhancing the safety of the battery pack.

[0050] The number of connection ports 512 can be one or more, which facilitates, for example, the rapid flow of gas between the pressure relief channel 130 and the electrical compartment 120, improving the detection efficiency during, for example, whole-pack airtightness testing. It also facilitates the rapid balance of air pressure in the pressure relief channel 130 and the electrical compartment 120, reducing the possibility of battery pack deformation and abnormal noise. This disclosure does not make specific limitations in this regard. Those skilled in the art can design it adaptively according to actual application needs. When the number of connection ports 512 is arranged in multiple ways, the arrangement position of each connection port 512 can be configured to avoid at least some electrical components 3, reducing the risk of short circuits caused by high-temperature and high-pressure gas entering the electrical compartment 120 and improving the safety of the battery pack.

[0051] Additionally, in some implementations, references Figures 7 to 12 As shown, a sealing and / or buffer element 440 may be provided between the first baffle 421 and the valve body 410 to improve the sealing performance and durability of the switch structure 4, and to reduce noise. The sealing and / or buffer element 440 may include, but is not limited to, sealing rings or sealing foam, etc., and this disclosure does not specifically limit its application.

[0052] In order to monitor the opening and closing state of the switch structure 4, in some embodiments, the switch structure 4 may also include a first information acquisition element (not shown). The first information acquisition element is used to connect to the controller (not shown) via a signal. The first information acquisition element is configured to acquire the deformation information of the elastic reset element 430, so that the controller can monitor the opening and closing state of the switch structure 4 based on the deformation information. With this arrangement, for example, during a battery pack airtightness test, if the first information acquisition element detects that the switch structure 4 is in the open state, it is considered to be in a normal state. If the battery pack provided in this disclosure is applied to a vehicle (electrical equipment), during vehicle operation, if the first information acquisition element detects that the switch structure 4 is in the open state, it can transmit the information to the controller, which can facilitate the controller to warn the driver in the vehicle and promptly investigate the reason for the opening of the switch structure 4. This is because the switch structure 4 will only be passively opened when the air pressure in the depressurization channel 130 of the battery pack is high, so as to warn the driver to eliminate potential hazards in time.

[0053] For example, the first information acquisition device may include, for example, a resistance strain gauge, so that when the elastic reset member 430 deforms, the resistance strain gauge bonded to the elastic reset member 430 deforms accordingly, thereby causing a change in the resistance value of, for example, the resistance strain gauge sensor. In this way, the information is transmitted to, for example, a controller through the resistance strain gauge sensor, so as to achieve the purpose of monitoring the opening and closing state of the switch structure 4. In this disclosure, the specific structure and arrangement of the resistance strain gauge sensor are not specifically limited, and those skilled in the art can design it adaptively according to the actual application requirements.

[0054] Furthermore, the aforementioned controller can be, for example, an automotive electronic control unit. Its overall structure is simple, and it can process the information collected by the first information acquisition device to, for example, warn the driver inside the vehicle, promptly investigate the cause of the switch structure 4 being opened, and eliminate potential hazards. The data transmission method and control connection method between the first information acquisition device and the controller are both well-known in the art and can be achieved using a controller and the first information acquisition device, and will not be elaborated upon further here.

[0055] Furthermore, the valve body 410 of the aforementioned switch structure 4 is disposed within the electrical compartment 120, and the valve core 420 includes a first baffle 421. The first baffle 421 is connected to the valve body 410 via an elastic reset member 430 and seals the outlet 412 of the valve body 410. This specific embodiment of a valve structure passively opened under air pressure is exemplary. In some alternative embodiments, the aforementioned switch structure 4 may also include a drive member (not shown). The drive member is configured to drive the valve core 420 to open or close the fluid passage 411 under a preset command, i.e., it can... It is understood that the aforementioned switch structure 4 can also be configured as an actively controlled valve structure, for example, by actively controlling the valve core 420 to open or close via a drive element. In such an arrangement, the valve core 420 can be driven by the drive element to close the fluid passage 411 in the event of thermal runaway or water ingress into the battery pack, thereby reducing the risk of short circuits to electrical components 3 caused by the entry of high-temperature and high-pressure gas and / or liquid and / or particulate mixtures into the electrical compartment 120. In the event of airtightness testing, the valve core 420 can be driven by the drive element to open the fluid passage 411 to meet the airtightness testing requirements.

[0056] It should be noted that the aforementioned switch structure 4 is an actively controlled valve structure that actively controls the valve core 420 to open or close via a driving element. This can be, for example, an electromagnetic control valve structure or an electric control valve structure known in the art. This disclosure does not specifically limit this. For example, when the switch structure 4 is, for example, an electromagnetic control valve structure, the driving element can adaptively include, for example, an electromagnetic coil, so as to drive the valve core 420 to rotate by turning the electromagnetic coil on and off, so as to open or close the fluid passage 411. Since the electromagnetic control valve structure is a valve structure known in the art, it will not be described in detail here. This disclosure is not limited to this.

[0057] In addition, in some embodiments, the switch structure 4 may also include a second information acquisition element for signal connection with a controller (e.g., an automotive electronic control unit). The second information acquisition element is configured to acquire information within the pressure relief channel 130, so that the controller can output a preset command based on the information to control the actuator to drive the valve core 420 to open or close the fluid channel 411. The information may include, for example, at least one of the pressure information within the pressure relief channel 130, the temperature information within the pressure relief channel 130, and the liquid level information within the pressure relief channel 130. With this arrangement, when, for example, the second information acquisition element acquires that at least one of the preset pressure, preset temperature, and preset substance is present in the pressure relief channel 130, the information can be transmitted to, for example, the controller, so that the controller can output a preset command (e.g., an opening command or a closing command) to control the actuator to drive the valve core 420 to open or close the fluid channel 411.

[0058] In summary, it can be understood that the preset pressure of the above-mentioned preset conditions may include, for example, the gas pressure in the pressure relief channel 130 during thermal runaway; the preset temperature of the above-mentioned preset conditions may include, for example, the temperature in the pressure relief channel 130 during thermal runaway; and the preset substance of the above-mentioned preset conditions may include, for example, high-temperature and high-pressure gas in the pressure relief channel 130 during thermal runaway or, for example, liquid in the pressure relief channel 130 when the base plate assembly 140 is submerged in water.

[0059] Furthermore, in order to monitor at least one of the pressure information, temperature information, and liquid level information within the pressure relief channel 130, the second information acquisition device may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, and a liquid level sensor. Moreover, the data transmission method and control connection method between the aforementioned second information acquisition device and the controller are all well-known in the art and can be achieved by using a controller and the second information acquisition device, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0060] Furthermore, it should be noted that the aforementioned switch structure 4 is an actively controlled valve structure that actively controls the valve core 420 to open or close via a drive component. Under normal conditions, it can be in a normally open state, such as during normal operation of the battery pack or during airtightness testing. Since the valve structure is in a normally open state, it can meet the requirements of airtightness testing and allow normal temperature and pressure gas to flow between the pressure relief channel 130 and the electrical compartment 120. However, in cases such as thermal runaway of the battery pack or water ingress into the battery pack, the valve structure can be closed by outputting a preset command through a controller, thereby reducing the risk of short circuits in the electrical components 3 within the electrical compartment 120 and improving the safety of the battery pack.

[0061] Alternatively, in some alternative embodiments, the switch structure 4 described above is configured as an actively controlled valve structure that actively controls the valve core 420 to open or close via a drive element. Normally, it can also be in a normally closed state, for example, when the battery pack needs to undergo an airtightness test, the valve structure can be opened by, for example, a controller outputting a preset command to meet the requirements of the airtightness test. This disclosure does not specifically limit such variations, and those skilled in the art can design them adaptively according to their needs.

[0062] Furthermore, the number of the aforementioned switch structures 4 can be multiple, and these multiple switch structures 4 can be correspondingly set at preset positions within, for example, the pressure relief channel 130 and / or the electrical compartment 120. This disclosure does not specifically limit this arrangement; the purpose is simply to enable the electrical compartment 120 to be openably and closably connected to the pressure relief channel 130 via the switch structures 4. Moreover, when multiple switch structures 4 are arranged, it facilitates, for example, rapid gas flow between the pressure relief channel 130 and the electrical compartment 120, improving detection efficiency during, for example, whole-pack airtightness testing. It also facilitates rapid pressure balance between the pressure relief channel 130 and the electrical compartment 120, reducing the likelihood of battery pack deformation and abnormal noise problems, thus enabling the battery pack to better adapt to various complex environments and reducing the impact of the external environment on the battery pack.

[0063] Furthermore, it should be noted that when the number of switch structures 4 is multiple, each switch structure 4 can be arranged in the same way as the multiple specific embodiments of the switch structure 4 described above. That is, it can be understood that the multiple switch structures 4 are all adaptively designed and arranged in the same way as the multiple specific embodiments of the switch structure 4 described above. Alternatively, the multiple switch structures 4 can be arranged in different ways. That is, it can be understood that each switch structure 4 can be adaptively designed according to the corresponding arrangement position and application requirements. This disclosure does not specifically limit such modifications, and those skilled in the art can design them adaptively according to actual application requirements.

[0064] Furthermore, the switch structure 4 can be detachably connected to the base plate assembly 140 and / or the frame 150 via fasteners such as bolts. This disclosure is not limited to this; the objective is simply to achieve a stable connection of the switch structure 4 to the base plate assembly 140 and / or the frame 150. Moreover, this disclosure does not specifically limit the exact external shape of the valve body 410 of the aforementioned switch structure 4; those skilled in the art can design it adaptably according to actual application requirements.

[0065] Exemplarily, in some implementations, reference is made to Figures 1 to 15 As shown, the housing 1 may include a base plate assembly 140 and a frame 150. The frame 150 is arranged circumferentially around the base plate assembly 140. At least one of the base plate assembly 140 and the frame 150 is provided with at least a partial pressure relief channel 130. At least one of the base plate assembly 140 and the frame 150 is provided with a switch structure 4 to achieve the purpose of enabling the electrical compartment 120 to be openably and closeably connected to the pressure relief channel 130 through the switch structure 4.

[0066] Among them, such as Figure 1 As shown, the battery pack may also include a cover 160, the cover 160, the frame 150 and the base plate assembly 140 forming a receiving space 170, in which the battery compartment 110 and the electrical compartment 120 are located. This arrangement allows the electrical compartment 120 to be located between the cover 160 and the base plate assembly 140. In order to achieve the purpose of connecting the pressure relief channel 130 with the electrical compartment 120, the switch structure 4 may be arranged on, for example, the base plate assembly 140 and / or the frame 150, so as to achieve the purpose of enabling the electrical compartment 120 to be openably and closably connected to the pressure relief channel 130 through the switch structure 4.

[0067] For example, such as Figures 11 to 15 As shown, the base plate assembly 140 may include a first plate 141 and a second plate 142. The first plate 141 is used to support the battery cell 2. At least a partial pressure relief channel 130 is formed between the first plate 141 and the second plate 142. A switch structure 4 is provided on the first plate 141 to achieve the purpose of enabling the electrical compartment 120 to be openably and closeably connected to the pressure relief channel 130 through the switch structure 4.

[0068] It should be noted that the first plate 141 may include a support plate structure, on which the aforementioned switch structure 4 is disposed. The support plate structure is used to support the battery cell 2, thereby providing a support function. Alternatively, the first plate 141 may also include a liquid cooling plate structure, on which the aforementioned switch structure 4 is disposed. The liquid cooling plate structure is used to cool the battery cell 2 and can also play a role in cooling down the battery pack in the event of thermal runaway.

[0069] Optionally, such as Figures 7 to 9As shown, the frame 150 may have a cavity 151 forming at least part of the pressure relief channel 130. A switch structure 4 is provided on the inner wall 152 or the top wall 153 of the frame 150 to achieve the purpose of enabling the electrical compartment 120 to be openably and closeably connected to the pressure relief channel 130 through the switch structure 4.

[0070] Additionally, refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, when the switch structure 4 is provided on the inner wall 152 of the frame 150, the switch structure 4 is arranged adjacent to the top wall 153 of the frame 150. This arrangement allows the position of the switch structure 4 to be in the height direction of the battery pack (see reference). Figure 6 The structure on the left and right sides of the middle part of the image is designed to be as far away as possible from the outer bottom surface 143 of the housing 1, which reduces the risk of short circuits caused by high-temperature and high-pressure gas entering the electrical compartment 120, and also reduces the possibility of liquid backflow into the electrical compartment 120 when the bottom plate assembly 140 is submerged in water, thus helping to improve the safety of the battery pack.

[0071] In some alternative implementations, reference Figures 16 to 18 As shown, the battery pack may also include a cover 160 and a maintenance cover 180. The cover 160, the frame 150, and the base plate assembly 140 form a receiving space 170. The battery compartment 110 is located in the receiving space 170. The maintenance cover 180 is located on the side of the cover 160 away from the receiving space 170. The electrical compartment 120 is located between the maintenance cover 180 and the cover 160. A switch structure 4 is provided on the frame 150. This arrangement allows the electrical compartment 120 to be located between the maintenance cover 180 and the cover 160. In order to achieve the purpose of opening and closing the pressure relief channel 130 and the electrical compartment 120 through the switch structure 4, the aforementioned switch structure 4 can be provided on the frame 150. For example, the aforementioned switch structure 4 can be provided on the top wall 153 of the frame 150 to achieve the purpose of opening and closing the pressure relief channel 130 and the electrical compartment 120 through the switch structure 4.

[0072] It is understood that the forms of the electrical compartment 120, battery compartment 110 and pressure relief channel 130 in the battery pack are not limited to the two forms mentioned above. In some other embodiments, the battery compartment 110 and pressure relief channel 130 can be adjacent in the horizontal direction, and the electrical compartment 120 is located above the battery compartment 110 in the height direction.

[0073] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, an electrical appliance is provided, which includes the battery pack provided in the first aspect. Furthermore, the electrical appliance possesses all the beneficial effects of the battery pack provided in the first aspect, which will not be elaborated further herein.

[0074] In some exemplary application scenarios, the aforementioned electrical equipment can be a vehicle, wherein the vehicle can be a new energy vehicle, which can be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid electric vehicle, or a range-extended electric vehicle, etc., and this disclosure does not make any specific limitations in this regard.

[0075] Of course, in other application scenarios, the above-mentioned electrical equipment can also be used for vehicles that need to be powered by battery packs, such as in the field of energy storage, aerospace or water transportation.

[0076] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the specific details of the above embodiments. Within the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure, various simple modifications can be made to the technical solutions of this disclosure, and these simple modifications all fall within the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0077] It should also be noted that the various specific technical features described in the above embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. To avoid unnecessary repetition, this disclosure will not describe the various possible combinations separately.

[0078] Furthermore, various different embodiments of this disclosure can be combined in any way, as long as they do not violate the spirit of this disclosure, they should also be regarded as the content disclosed in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A battery pack, characterized in that, include: The housing has a battery compartment for accommodating individual battery cells, an electrical compartment for accommodating electrical components, and a pressure relief channel communicating with a pressure relief component connected to the individual battery cells. The housing is provided with a pressure relief structure, and the pressure relief channel is able to communicate with the outside of the housing through the pressure relief structure. and A switch structure is connected to the housing and located between the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel, wherein the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel are connected or disconnected through the switch structure.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The switch structure is configured to change the on / off state of the switch structure under preset instructions and / or preset conditions. The preset instructions include an on command and an off command; and / or, The preset conditions include at least one of preset pressure, preset temperature, and preset substance.

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, characterized in that, The switch structure includes a valve body and a valve core. The valve body has a fluid channel, and the electrical compartment and the pressure relief channel are connected through the fluid channel. The valve core is configured to open or close the fluid passage according to the preset command; or, The valve core is configured to open or close the fluid passage under preset conditions.

4. The battery pack according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve body is disposed within the electrical compartment, and the valve core includes a first baffle. The first baffle is connected to the valve body via an elastic reset member and seals the outlet of the valve body. The elastic reset member is used to provide the first baffle with an elastic force to seal the outlet.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, characterized in that, A seal and / or buffer is provided between the first baffle and the valve body.

6. The battery pack according to claim 4, characterized in that, The battery pack includes a buffer structure adapted to form a connecting cavity. The fluid channel is closably connected to the connecting cavity via the outlet and the first baffle. The buffer structure is provided with a connecting port connecting the electrical compartment and the connecting cavity.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, characterized in that, The location of the connection port is configured such that the discharge path of the connection port avoids at least part of the electrical components.

8. The battery pack according to claim 6, characterized in that, The buffer structure includes a buffer cover, which covers the switch structure and is connected to the housing. A communication channel is formed between the buffer cover and the switch structure, and the communication port is provided on the buffer cover.

9. The battery pack according to any one of claims 4-8, characterized in that, The switch structure further includes a first information acquisition element, which is used to connect to the controller signal. The first information acquisition element is configured to acquire the deformation information of the elastic reset element, so that the controller can monitor the opening and closing state of the switch structure based on the deformation information.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first information acquisition device includes a resistance strain gauge.

11. The battery pack according to claim 3, characterized in that, The switch structure also includes a drive component, which is configured to drive the valve core to open or close the fluid channel under the preset command.

12. The battery pack according to claim 11, characterized in that, The switch structure further includes a second information acquisition element, which is used to connect to the controller signal. The second information acquisition element is configured to acquire information in the pressure relief channel, so that the controller can output the preset command according to the information to control the drive element to drive the valve core to open or close the fluid channel.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, characterized in that, The information includes at least one of the following: pressure information within the pressure relief channel, temperature information within the pressure relief channel, and liquid level information within the pressure relief channel; and / or, The second information acquisition device includes at least one of a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, and a liquid level sensor.

14. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing includes a base plate assembly and a frame, the frame being arranged circumferentially around the base plate assembly; At least one of the base plate assembly and the frame is provided with at least a portion of the pressure relief channel, and at least one of the base plate assembly and the frame is provided with the switch structure.

15. The battery pack according to claim 14, characterized in that, The battery pack also includes a cover, the cover, the frame, and the base plate assembly forming an accommodating space, wherein the battery compartment and the electrical compartment are located in the accommodating space; or, The battery pack also includes a cover and a maintenance cover. The cover, the frame, and the base plate assembly form a receiving space. The battery compartment is located in the receiving space. The maintenance cover is located on the side of the cover away from the receiving space. The electrical compartment is located between the maintenance cover and the cover. The switch structure is provided on the frame.

16. The battery pack according to claim 14, characterized in that, The base plate assembly includes a first plate and a second plate. The first plate supports the battery cell, and at least a portion of the pressure relief channel is formed between the first plate and the second plate. The switch structure is provided on the first plate; and / or... The frame has a cavity forming at least part of the pressure relief channel, and the switch structure is provided on the inner wall or top wall of the frame.

17. The battery pack according to claim 14, characterized in that, The switch structure is provided on the inner wall of the frame, and the switch structure is arranged adjacent to the top wall of the frame.

18. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, Includes the battery pack described in any one of claims 1-17.

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