Battery, electrical device and method for preparing battery

Abstract

The present application provides a battery, an electrical device, and a method for preparing a battery. The battery includes a box and a battery module, the battery module is arranged in the box, the battery module includes a battery cell arrangement structure and an end plate, the battery cell arrangement structure includes a plurality of battery cells stacked and arranged along a first direction, the end plate is arranged between the inner wall of the box and the battery cell arrangement structure, the end plate is fixedly connected to the battery cell arrangement structure, wherein the end plate includes a first elastic support portion, the first elastic support portion is configured to abut against the inner wall of the box when the battery cell arrangement structure expands and be squeezed and deformed by the battery cell arrangement structure to provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure. The first elastic support portion provides expansion space by deforming itself, the deformation is reliable, and can provide expansion space for the battery module in time to release the expansion force of the battery cell arrangement structure, which is conducive to the normal operation of the battery.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular, to a battery, an electrical device, and a method for preparing a battery. Background Art

[0002] In the prior art, the battery module and the box of the battery are locked with bolts to form a rigid connection between the battery module and the box. During the expansion of the battery module, the box may deform under the action of the expansion force, resulting in an increase in the deformed outline size of the battery box, affecting the assembly and service life of the battery. Moreover, the battery cell will be squeezed by the inner wall of the box during the expansion process, and lithium deposition may occur, causing the battery capacity to drop. Summary of the invention

[0003] The embodiments of the present application are intended to provide a battery, an electrical device and a method for preparing the battery. In the battery, expansion space can be provided for the battery module, and the box body is not easily deformed.

[0004] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery, comprising a case and a battery module, wherein the battery module is arranged in the case, the battery module comprises a battery cell arrangement structure and an end plate, the battery cell arrangement structure comprises a plurality of battery cells stacked along a first direction, the end plate is arranged between an inner wall of the case and the battery cell arrangement structure, the end plate is fixedly connected to the battery cell arrangement structure, wherein the end plate comprises a first elastic support portion, the first elastic support portion is configured to abut against the inner wall of the case when the battery cell arrangement structure expands and be squeezed and deformed by the battery cell arrangement structure, so as to provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure.

[0005] In the above technical solution, the first elastic support part provides expansion space by deforming itself, and the deformation is reliable, and can provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure in time, that is, provide expansion space for the battery module, so as to release the expansion force of the battery cell arrangement structure, and can reduce the possibility of deformation of the box body caused by the expansion force, thereby improving the reliability and service life of the box body installation. At the same time, by releasing the expansion force, the possibility of lithium deposition in the battery cell caused by excessive squeezing force between the inner wall of the box body and the end plate can be reduced, which is conducive to the normal operation of the battery.

[0006] Optionally, the box body includes a first wall and a second wall, the second wall is connected to the first wall and extends upward, the battery module is located above the first wall, the end plate is arranged between the second wall and the battery cell arrangement structure, and the first elastic support portion is configured to abut against the second wall and be squeezed and deformed by the battery cell arrangement structure when the battery cell arrangement structure expands.

[0007] In the above technical solution, an expansion space is provided between the end plate and the second wall of the box body for the battery cell arrangement structure, which can reduce the squeezing force of the battery module on the second wall of the box body.

[0008] Optionally, at least a portion of the first elastic support portion extends obliquely upward toward the second wall.

[0009] In the above technical solution, when the end plate is compressed, the first elastic support portion has an inclined angle, so that the first elastic support portion is more easily deformed when squeezed by the second wall, and can provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure in time.

[0010] Optionally, the end plate further includes an end plate body, the end plate body has a first surface facing the battery cell arrangement structure and a second surface away from the battery cell arrangement structure, and the first elastic support portion is provided on the second surface.

[0011] In the above technical solution, the second surface is the large surface of the end plate body, which is convenient for setting the first elastic support part. In addition, since the second surface is a large surface, it is convenient to arrange more first elastic support parts, which is conducive to dispersing the expansion force of the battery cell arrangement structure and reducing the possibility of lithium deposition caused by the pressure concentration of the battery cell.

[0012] Optionally, the orthographic projection of the first elastic support portion on the horizontal plane is a long strip, the surface where one long side of the long strip is located is connected to the second surface, and the surface where the other long side of the long strip is located is used to abut against the second wall to disperse the expansion force of the battery cell arrangement structure in the length direction of the end plate.

[0013] Optionally, there are multiple first elastic support parts, and the multiple first elastic support parts are arranged on the second surface at intervals in the up and down directions to facilitate uniform dispersion of expansion force, improve the force consistency at various points on the surface where the battery cell arrangement structure contacts the end plate, and improve the force consistency of the battery cells.

[0014] Optionally, there are multiple first elastic support parts, and the multiple first elastic support parts are arranged in a rectangular array on the second surface, so as to evenly disperse the expansion force transmitted to the end plate by the battery cell arrangement structure, so as to further improve the force consistency of various parts of the battery cell arrangement structure and improve the force consistency of the battery cells.

[0015] Optionally, the box body includes a pair of second walls, which are arranged opposite to each other along the first direction, and when the battery cell arrangement structure is not expanded, the first elastic support portion abuts against the second wall to achieve positioning of the battery module in the first direction.

[0016] In the above technical solution, after the battery module is installed in the box, the first elastic support portion provides installation positioning for the battery module in the first direction, thereby ensuring the reliability of the installation of the battery module in the first direction.

[0017] Optionally, the battery module and the box body are interference fit, and the first elastic support portion is configured to absorb the interference in the first direction by generating elastic deformation.

[0018] In the above technical solution, when the battery cell arrangement structure is not expanded, the first elastic support part abuts against the second wall and is in a deformed state. In addition to being able to provide the battery module with installation positioning in the first direction as mentioned above, this arrangement also has at least the following two advantages: First, after the battery module is assembled in place, the first elastic support part provides the battery module with an assembly margin in the first direction, so that the size error of the battery module in the first direction can be offset by the deformation of the first elastic support part. For example, when the size of the battery module in the first direction is larger than the installation size in the corresponding direction of the box, the battery module can be smoothly loaded into the box through the deformation of the first elastic support part. Therefore, the requirements for the processing and assembly accuracy of the battery module in the first direction are reduced. Second, after the battery module is assembled in place, since the first elastic support part is in a deformed state, the reaction force of the second wall can be transmitted to the battery cell arrangement structure. The battery cell is subjected to a certain amount of pressure, which is conducive to ensuring good interface contact between the anode and cathode electrodes inside the battery cell.

[0019] Optionally, the box body also includes a pair of third walls, which are connected to the first wall and extend upward, and the pair of third walls are relatively arranged along a second direction, and the second direction intersects with the first direction. The end plate also includes a second elastic support portion, and the second elastic support portion is used to abut against the third wall to achieve the positioning of the battery module in the second direction.

[0020] In the above technical aspect, after the battery module is installed in the box, the second elastic support portion abuts against the third wall, providing installation positioning for the battery module in the second direction, thereby ensuring the reliability of the battery module installation in the second direction.

[0021] Optionally, the battery module and the box body are interference fit, and the second elastic support portion is configured to absorb the interference in the second direction by generating elastic deformation.

[0022] In the above technical solution, when the battery cell arrangement structure is not expanded, the second elastic support part abuts against the third wall and is in a deformed state. In addition to the ability to provide the battery module with installation positioning in the second direction mentioned above, this arrangement also has at least the following two advantages: First, after the battery module is assembled in place, the second elastic support part provides the battery module with an assembly margin in the second direction. The dimensional error of the battery module in the second direction can be offset by the deformation of the second elastic support part. For example, when the size of the battery module in the second direction is larger than the installation size in the corresponding direction of the box, the battery module can be smoothly loaded into the box through the deformation of the second elastic support part. Therefore, the requirements for the processing and assembly accuracy of the battery module in the second direction are reduced. Second, after the battery module is assembled in place, since the second elastic support part is in a deformed state, the reaction force of the third wall can be transmitted to the battery cell arrangement structure. The battery cell is subjected to a certain amount of pressure, which is conducive to ensuring good interface contact between the anode and cathode pole pieces inside the battery cell.

[0023] Optionally, the end plate further includes an end plate body, and the second elastic support portion is disposed on two opposite sides of the end plate body along the second direction.

[0024] Optionally, at least a portion of the second elastic support portion extends from the end plate body toward the third wall and upward.

[0025] In the above technical solution, the upwardly extending portion of the second elastic support portion can abut against the third wall to achieve installation positioning of the second elastic support portion and the third wall, and the second elastic support portion extends upward at an angle, which is conducive to the second elastic support portion being squeezed and deformed by the third wall.

[0026] Optionally, the second elastic support portion includes a first section and a second section, the first section extending obliquely upward from the end plate body toward the third wall, the second section extending upward from an end of the first section away from the end plate body, and the second section is used to abut against the third wall.

[0027] In the above technical solution, the first section is arranged to be inclined upward, which can play a certain guiding role. The second section extends in the up-down direction, which can form a surface contact with the third wall, which is conducive to the extrusion fit of the two. Moreover, there is a gap between the second section and the end plate body, which is conducive to the deformation of the second section when extruded with the third wall.

[0028] Optionally, the end plate further includes a guide portion, which is disposed on two opposite sides of the end plate body along the second direction, the guide portion is located below the second elastic support portion, and the guide portion has a guide slope, which is used to guide the end plate when it is installed into the box body.

[0029] Optionally, there is a gap between the guide portion and the third wall to prevent the guide portion from affecting the normal working of the second elastic support portion.

[0030] Optionally, the lower end of the battery cell arrangement structure is attached to the first wall, and a gap is formed between the lower end of the end plate and the first wall to ensure contact between the battery cell arrangement structure and the first wall.

[0031] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an electrical device, which includes the battery provided in the first aspect of the embodiment of the present application.

[0032] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a method for preparing a battery, the method comprising:

[0033] A box is provided; a battery module is provided, the battery module comprising a battery cell arrangement structure and an end plate, the battery cell arrangement structure comprising a plurality of battery cells stacked on each other, the end plate being fixedly connected to the battery cell arrangement structure, the end plate comprising a first elastic support portion, the first elastic support portion being configured to abut against an inner wall of the box and be squeezed and deformed by the battery cell arrangement structure when the battery cell arrangement structure expands, so as to provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure; the battery module is installed in the box so that the end plate is located between the inner wall of the box and the battery cell arrangement structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the drawings required for use in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show certain embodiments of the present application and therefore should not be regarded as limiting the scope. For ordinary technicians in this field, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying creative work.

[0035] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle provided for one embodiment of the present application;

[0036] Figure 2 An exploded schematic diagram of a battery provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0037] Figure 3 An exploded schematic diagram of a battery provided in one embodiment of the present application, wherein the upper cover is not shown;

[0038] Figure 4 A left schematic diagram of a battery provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0039] Figure 5 For along Figure 4 Schematic cross-sectional view of the AA line;

[0040] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of

[0041] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of an end plate provided in an embodiment of the present application along a first direction;

[0042] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a three-dimensional structure of an end plate provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0043] Fig. 9 A schematic side view of an end plate provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0044] Fig.10 A schematic side view of an end plate provided in another embodiment of the present application;

[0045] Fig.11 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a battery box provided in one embodiment of the present application, wherein the upper cover is not shown;

[0046] Fig.12 A schematic diagram of a front view of a battery provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Fig.13 For along Fig.12 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of line BB;

[0048] Fig.14 for Fig.13 A local enlarged schematic diagram in FIG.

[0049] Fig.15 A schematic cross-sectional view of an end plate provided in an embodiment of the present application along a second direction;

[0050] Fig.16 A schematic flow chart of a method for preparing a battery provided in one embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] In order to make the purpose, technical solution and advantages of the embodiments of the present application clearer, the technical solution in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present application described and shown in the drawings here can be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0052] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the present application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the present application for which protection is sought, but merely represents selected embodiments of the present application. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in the field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0053] It should be noted that the embodiments and features in the embodiments of the present application can be combined with each other without conflict. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters represent similar items in the following drawings, so once an item is defined in one drawing, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent drawings.

[0054] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "inner", "outer", etc. indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientations or positional relationships in which the product of the application is usually placed when in use, or the orientations or positional relationships commonly understood by those skilled in the art, or the orientations or positional relationships in which the product of the application is usually placed when in use, which are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the present application. In addition, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are only used to distinguish the description, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0055] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "set", "install", "connect", and "connect" should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection, or it can be indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, or it can be the internal connection of two components. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0056] The application of batteries generally includes three levels: battery cells, battery modules and battery packs. Battery cells include positive pole pieces, negative pole pieces, electrolytes and separators. The separators are arranged between the positive pole pieces and the negative pole pieces to prevent internal short circuits. Common battery cells can generally be divided into three types according to the packaging method: cylindrical battery cells, square battery cells and soft-pack battery cells.

[0057] A battery module is a single physical module that includes multiple battery cells to provide higher voltage and / or capacity. In a battery module, multiple battery cells can be connected in series and / or in parallel via bus bars for various applications, for example, in some high-power applications such as electric vehicles.

[0058] A battery pack is constructed by assembling components such as a battery management system on the basis of one or more battery modules, and then placing them into a sealed box, which is then connected to an electric device such as an electric vehicle. The battery mentioned in this application may be a battery pack.

[0059] In the battery of the prior art, the battery module and the housing are rigidly connected by fasteners. Although during the expansion of the battery module, part of the expansion force can be released to a certain extent through the local deformation of the end plate. However, since the end plate and the housing are bolted together, a rigid connection is formed between the two. Therefore, the housing will inevitably be affected during the deformation of the end plate, which may cause deformation of the housing. If you want to avoid deformation of the housing due to deformation of the end plate, the local deformation of the end plate will be very small, which is not conducive to providing sufficient expansion space for the battery module. The battery cell will still be squeezed by the inner wall of the housing during the expansion process, and lithium deposition may occur, causing the battery capacity to drop.

[0060] In view of this, in some embodiments of the present application, a battery 10 is provided. In the battery 10, expansion space can be provided for the battery module 200, and the expansion force can be released, which is conducive to reducing the possibility of lithium deposition due to pressure on the battery cell 211, and at the same time, the possibility of deformation of the box 100 can be reduced. In other words, the possibility of deformation of the box 100 can be reduced while providing expansion space for the battery module 200.

[0061] The embodiment of the present application provides an electrical device using a battery 10 as a power source, and the electrical device may be, but is not limited to, a vehicle 1, a ship, or an aircraft.

[0062] It can be understood that the battery 10 described in the embodiment of the present application is suitable for various devices using batteries, such as mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric cars, ships, spacecraft, electric toys and electric tools, etc. For example, spacecraft include rockets, space shuttles and spacecraft, etc. Electric toys include fixed or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys and electric airplane toys, etc. Electric tools include metal cutting power tools, grinding power tools, assembly power tools and railway power tools, such as electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, concrete vibrators and electric planers.

[0063] The battery 10 described in the embodiment of the present application is not limited to being applicable to the above-described electrical devices, but can also be applicable to all devices using the battery 10 .

[0064] like Figure 1As shown, it is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the present application. The vehicle 1 may be a fuel vehicle, a gas vehicle or a new energy vehicle. The new energy vehicle may be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle or an extended-range vehicle, etc. A battery 10, a motor 20 and a controller 30 may be arranged inside the vehicle 1. The controller 30 is used to control the battery 10 to supply power to the motor 20. For example, the battery 10 is arranged at the bottom or the front of the vehicle 1. The battery 10 may be used to supply power to the vehicle 1. For example, the battery 10 may be used as an operating power source for the vehicle 1 and used in the circuit system of the vehicle 1, for example, for the working power demand during the startup, navigation and operation of the vehicle 1.

[0065] In another embodiment of the present application, the battery 10 can not only serve as an operating power source for the vehicle 1 , but also serve as a driving power source for the vehicle 1 , replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1 .

[0066] In some embodiments of the present application, the vehicle may adopt Figure 2 The battery 10 shown in FIG. 1 is powered by a battery, and the battery 10 includes a battery module 200 and a housing 100, wherein the battery module 200 is disposed in the housing 100. Figure 3 As shown, the battery module 200 includes a battery cell arrangement structure 210 and an end plate 220. The battery cell arrangement structure 210 may include a plurality of battery cells 211 stacked along a first direction A1. The end plate 220 is disposed between the inner wall of the box body 100 and the battery cell arrangement structure 210. The end plate 220 is fixedly connected to the battery cell arrangement structure 210.

[0067] Among them, Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the end plate 210 includes a first elastic support portion 224, which is configured to abut against the inner wall of the box body 100 and be squeezed and deformed by the battery cell arrangement structure 210 when the battery cell arrangement structure 210 expands, so as to provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure 210.

[0068] In the above technical solution, since the battery cell arrangement structure 210 includes a plurality of battery cells 211 in the first direction A1, the battery module 200 expands mainly along the first direction A1. The first elastic support portion 224 provides expansion space by deforming itself, and the deformation is reliable. It can provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure 210 in time (that is, provide expansion space for the battery module 200), and mainly provides expansion space in the first direction A1 to release the expansion force of the battery cell arrangement structure 210, which can reduce the possibility of deformation of the box body 100 caused by the expansion force, and improve the reliability and service life of the assembly of the box body 100. At the same time, by releasing the expansion force, the possibility of lithium deposition in the battery cell 211 due to excessive squeezing force between the inner wall of the box body 100 and the end plate 220 can be reduced. Therefore, the possibility of deformation of the box body 100 can be reduced while providing expansion space for the battery module 200, which is conducive to the normal operation of the battery 10.

[0069] The end plate 220 and the battery cell arrangement structure 210 can be fixedly connected in any appropriate manner, for example, by bonding, connecting with a cable tie, or connecting the end plate 220 and the battery cell arrangement structure 210 using an end side plate, which is not limited in the embodiment of the present application.

[0070] In one embodiment of the present application, Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the box body 100 may include a lower box body 101 and an upper cover body 102 , the upper cover body 102 is sealed and covered on the lower box body 101 , and the battery module 200 may be installed in the lower box body 101 .

[0071] like Figures 3 to 6 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the box body 100 includes a first wall 110 and a second wall 120, the second wall 120 is connected to the first wall 100 and extends upward, and the battery module 200 is located above the first wall 110, that is, the first wall 100 is the bottom wall of the box body 100, and the second wall 120 is the side wall connected to the bottom wall. The first wall 110 can be the bottom wall of the lower box body 101, and the second wall 120 can be the side wall of the lower box body 101. The end plate 220 is arranged between the second wall 120 and the battery cell arrangement structure 210. The first elastic support portion 224 is configured to be able to abut against the second wall 120 when the battery cell arrangement structure 210 expands and be squeezed and deformed by the battery cell arrangement structure 210. Based on this, the end plate 220 and the second wall 120 of the box body 100 provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure 210, which can reduce the squeezing force of the battery module 200 on the second wall 120 of the box body 100.

[0072] In order to make the first elastic support portion 224 easily deform when under pressure, Figure 6As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, at least a portion of the first elastic support portion 224 extends obliquely upward toward the second wall 120. Based on this, when the end plate 220 is compressed, since the first elastic support portion 224 has an inclined angle, the first elastic support portion 224 is more easily deformed when squeezed by the second wall 120, and can provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure 210 in time.

[0073] It should be noted that the upward tilt angle of the first elastic support portion 224 can be any angle as long as it can meet the deformation requirements. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the upward tilt angle of the first elastic support portion 224.

[0074] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the end plate 220 also includes an end plate body 223, the end plate body 223 has a first surface 2231 facing the battery cell arrangement structure 210 and a second surface 2232 away from the battery cell arrangement structure 210, and the first elastic support portion 224 is provided on the second surface 2232. The second surface 2232 is a large surface of the end plate body 223, which is convenient for setting the first elastic support portion 224. In addition, since the second surface 2232 is a large surface (a surface with a larger area), it is convenient to arrange more first elastic support portions 224, which is conducive to dispersing the expansion force of the battery cell arrangement structure 210, and reducing the possibility of lithium deposition due to the pressure of the battery cell 211 being concentrated due to the extrusion force.

[0075] It can be understood that in other embodiments of the present application, the first elastic support portion 224 can also be arranged on the two side walls in the thickness direction (first direction A1) of the end plate body 223, that is, it is arranged on the small surface (surface with smaller area) of the end plate body 223 and extends toward the second wall 120.

[0076] In order to disperse the expansion force of the battery cell arrangement structure 210 as much as possible, in one embodiment of the present application, the orthographic projection of the first elastic support portion 224 on the horizontal plane is in the shape of an elongated strip, the surface where one long side of the elongated strip is located is connected to the second surface 2232, and the surface where the other long side of the elongated strip is located is used to abut against the second wall 120. In other words, the first elastic support portion 224 is arranged on the second surface 2232 along the length direction of the end plate 220 (i.e., the second direction A2, intersecting with the first direction A1), which is conducive to dispersing the expansion force of the battery cell arrangement structure 210 in the length direction of the end plate 220.

[0077] In order to make the first elastic support portion 224 easily deformable, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, optionally, the first elastic support portion 224 may be formed in a thin sheet shape. That is, in this embodiment, the first elastic support portion 224 is configured as a thin sheet structure extending obliquely upward.

[0078] It should be noted that the embodiment of the present application does not limit the specific structure of the first elastic support portion 224. For example, the first elastic support portion 224 may also be configured as a horizontal protrusion extending along the first direction A1, and a strength weakening structure such as a groove is provided on the first elastic support portion 224 to weaken the strength of the first elastic support portion 224, so that the first elastic support portion 224 is easily deformed when being squeezed by the second wall 120. In addition, the first elastic support portion 224 may also be a spring, one end of which is connected to (such as welded) the second surface 2232, and the other end of which extends toward the second wall 120.

[0079] like Figures 6 to 9 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, there are multiple first elastic support parts 224, and the multiple first elastic support parts 224 are arranged on the second surface 2232 at intervals in the up and down directions, so as to evenly disperse the expansion force, improve the force consistency at various locations on the contact surface of the battery cell arrangement structure 210 and the end plate 220, and improve the force consistency of the battery cell 211.

[0080] Furthermore, if Figures 6 to 9 As shown, multiple first elastic support portions 224 can be arranged in a rectangular array on the second surface 2232 to facilitate uniform dispersion of the expansion force transmitted to the end plate 220 of the entire battery cell arrangement structure 210, so as to further improve the force consistency of various parts of the battery cell arrangement structure 210 and improve the force consistency of the battery cell 211.

[0081] like Fig.10 As shown, in another embodiment of the present application, there are multiple first elastic support portions 224, and the multiple first elastic support portions 224 are arranged on the second surface 2232 at intervals along the up and down directions. Each first elastic support portion 224 extends in the length direction of the end plate body 223, and the extension of the first elastic support portion 224 in the length direction of the end plate body 223 is uninterrupted.

[0082] In the prior art battery, in order to install the battery module 200 in the box 100 and limit the battery module 200 from freely moving upward in the box 100, the end plate 220 of the battery module 200 is usually installed on the side wall of the box 100 through fasteners (such as locking bolts). In order to facilitate the installation of fasteners, the thickness of the side wall of the box is relatively large. Therefore, it is not conducive to increasing the space of the box 100 for accommodating the battery module 200, and the space utilization rate in the box 100 is reduced.

[0083] In view of this, if Figure 6As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, a limiting surface 121 is provided on the second wall 120, and the limiting surface 121 is used to abut against the end plate 220 to limit the upward movement of the end plate 220. The limiting surface 121 limits the free upward movement of the end plate 220, ensures the installation position of the end plate 220 and the battery module 200 in the up and down direction (i.e., the height direction of the end plate 220), and avoids affecting the normal operation of the battery module 200 due to the upward movement of the battery module 200. Based on this, the bolt locking between the battery module 200 and the box 100 can be omitted, which is conducive to reducing the use of parts and improving the space utilization rate inside the box 100. Moreover, since the bolt locking is cancelled, the rigid connection between the battery module 200 and the box 100 is released, so that the battery 10 can provide the battery module 200 with expansion space while reducing the possibility of deformation of the box 100. At the same time, the cancellation of the bolt locking simplifies the process and improves the assembly efficiency of the battery 10.

[0084] The limiting surface 121 can be formed by any appropriate structure, such as Figure 6 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the surface portion of the second wall 120 facing the end plate 220 is recessed to form a groove, and the upper side wall of the groove is a limiting surface 121. By constructing the limiting surface 121 through the upper side wall of the groove, the space of the box 100 for accommodating the battery module 200 is not occupied, and the box 100 is also lightened.

[0085] like Figure 6 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, a limiting protrusion 221 is provided on the end plate 220, and the upper surface of the limiting protrusion 221 is used to abut against the limiting surface 121 to limit the upward movement of the end plate 220. The limiting protrusion 221 abuts against the limiting surface 121 to limit the end plate 220. Compared with the bolt locking method, the limiting protrusion 221 has the advantages of simple structure and convenient installation of the battery module 200 in the box 100, while achieving reliable limiting of the end plate 220 and the box 100.

[0086] In order to ensure the limiting effect of the limiting protrusion 221, as Figures 4 to 6 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the limiting protrusion 221 extends horizontally toward the second wall 120. Based on this, when the battery module 200 expands, the direction in which the limiting protrusion 221 may move (upward) is perpendicular to the extension direction, so that the limiting protrusion 221 and the limiting surface 121 are not easy to slide, which can improve the reliability of the limiting protrusion 221 and the limiting surface 121.

[0087] Furthermore, if Figure 6 As shown, the limiting surface 121 may be a surface parallel to the horizontal plane, so that when the limiting protrusion 221 abuts against the limiting surface 121 , the two surfaces are fully fitted, further improving the reliability of the limiting protrusion 221 and the limiting surface 121 .

[0088] When assembling the battery 10, first, an extrusion force can be applied to the battery module 200 to compress the length of the battery module 200 in the first direction A1; then, the compressed battery module 200 is placed into the box body 100 and placed on the first wall 110; thereafter, the extrusion force is removed to restore the length of the battery module 200 so that the limiting protrusion 221 of the end plate 220 moves to below the limiting surface 121.

[0089] In order to enable the limiting protrusion 221 to smoothly move below the limiting surface 121 after the pressure is removed, Figure 6 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, after the battery module 200 is installed in place in the box 100, when the battery cell arrangement structure 210 is not expanded, there is a gap between the upper surface of the limiting protrusion 221 and the limiting surface 121 in the vertical direction. Based on this, after the extrusion force of the extrusion end plate 220 is removed, due to the gap in the vertical direction, the limiting surface 121 will not interfere with the horizontal movement of the limiting protrusion 221, which is conducive to the smooth movement of the limiting protrusion 221 to the bottom of the limiting surface 121.

[0090] like Figure 6 As shown, optionally, after the battery module 200 is installed in place in the box body 100, when the battery cell arrangement structure 210 has not expanded, there is also a gap between the limiting protrusion 221 and the second wall 120 in the horizontal direction, so that the end plate 220 can at least move toward the second wall 120, thereby providing expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure 210.

[0091] Thus, during the expansion process of the battery cell arrangement structure 210, the movement of the limiting protrusion 221 toward the second wall 120 can be divided into two stages. In the first stage, the limiting protrusion 221 moves horizontally toward the second wall 120 until it abuts against the second wall 120. If the battery cell arrangement structure 210 continues to expand after the limiting protrusion 221 abuts against the second wall 120, the end plate body 223 can be partially deformed to continue to provide expansion space.

[0092] like Figure 6 As shown, the limiting protrusion 221 can be set on the second surface 2232 of the end plate body 223. The second surface 2232 is a large surface (a surface with a larger area) of the end plate body 223, which is convenient for setting the limiting protrusion 221. Moreover, since the second surface 2232 is a large surface, it is convenient to arrange the limiting protrusion 221 with a longer length along the length direction of the end plate 220 (a direction perpendicular to the first direction A1), so as to improve the reliability of the battery module 200 in the upper and lower directions in the box body 100 as much as possible.

[0093] It can be understood that in other embodiments of the present application, the limiting protrusion 221 can also be set on two side surfaces in the thickness direction (first direction A1) of the end plate body 223, that is, it is set on the small surface (surface with smaller area) of the end plate body 223 and extends toward the second wall 120.

[0094] In one embodiment of the present application, the orthographic projection of the limiting protrusion 221 on the horizontal plane is in the shape of an elongated strip, and the surface where one long side of the elongated strip is located is connected to the second surface 2232. The limiting protrusion 221 is in the shape of an elongated strip, which is conducive to increasing the contact area between the limiting protrusion 221 and the first limiting surface 121, thereby facilitating the limiting effect of the limiting protrusion 221.

[0095] In one embodiment of the present application, the battery module 200 is bonded to the first wall 110 by glue. Figures 8 to 10 As shown, an extension portion 227 is further provided at the lower end of the end plate 220, and the extension portion 227 can block the structural adhesive and prevent the structural adhesive from moving upward to a certain extent.

[0096] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, a clamping portion 222 is further provided at the upper end of the end plate 220 to facilitate the assembly tool to clamp the battery module 200 when the battery module 200 is installed in the box body 100 .

[0097] like Figure 3 and Fig.11 As shown, in the embodiment of the present application, the box body 100 may include a pair of second walls 120, and the pair of second walls 120 are arranged opposite to each other along the first direction A1. When the battery cell arrangement structure 210 is not expanded, the first elastic support portion 224 may abut against the second wall 120 to achieve the positioning of the battery module 200 in the first direction A1. Based on this, when the battery module 200 is installed in the box body 100, the first elastic support portion 224 provides the battery module 200 with installation positioning in the first direction A1, ensuring the reliability of the installation of the battery module 200 in the first direction A1.

[0098] It should be noted that in an embodiment of the present application, one end of the battery module 200 can be abutted against one of the second walls 120 through a first elastic support portion 224, and the other end can be fixedly connected to the other second wall 120, or both ends of the battery module 200 can be abutted against the corresponding second wall 120 through the first elastic support portion 224.

[0099] Here, when the battery cell arrangement structure 210 is not expanded, the first elastic support portion 224 abutting against the second wall 120 may mean that the first elastic support portion 224 just contacts the second wall 120 and the first elastic support portion 224 is in an undeformed state, or it may mean that the first elastic support portion 224 abuts against the second wall 120 and is in a deformed state. The embodiment of the present application is not limited to this.

[0100] Optionally, in one embodiment of the present application, the battery module 200 is interference fit with the box 100, and the first elastic support portion 224 is configured to absorb the interference in the first direction A1 by generating elastic deformation. That is, in this embodiment, when the battery cell arrangement structure 210 is not expanded, the first elastic support portion 224 abuts against the second wall 120 and is in a deformed state. In addition to the above-mentioned ability to provide the battery module 200 with installation positioning in the first direction A1, this arrangement also has at least the following two advantages: First, after the battery module 200 is assembled in place, the first elastic support portion 224 provides the battery module 200 with an assembly margin in the first direction A1, so that the dimensional error of the battery module 200 in the first direction A1 can be offset by the deformation of the first elastic support portion 224. For example, when the size of the battery module 200 in the first direction A1 is greater than the installation size of the box 100 in the corresponding direction, the battery module 200 can be smoothly loaded into the box 100 through the deformation of the first elastic support portion 224. Therefore, the requirements for the processing and assembly accuracy of the battery module 200 in the first direction A1 are reduced. Second, after the battery module 200 is assembled in place, since the first elastic support portion 224 is in a deformed state, the reaction force of the second wall 120 can be transmitted to the battery cell arrangement structure 210. The battery cell 211 is subjected to a certain amount of pressure, which is conducive to ensuring good interface contact between the anode electrode sheet and the cathode electrode sheet inside the battery cell 211.

[0101] like Fig.11 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the box body 100 further includes a pair of third walls 130, the pair of third walls 130 are both connected to the first wall 110 and extend upward, the pair of third walls 130 are arranged opposite to each other along the second direction A2, and the second direction A2 intersects with the first direction A1. Fig.11 As shown, the second direction A2 may be perpendicular to the first direction A1 , and the second direction A2 may be the length direction of the end plate 220 .

[0102] like Figure 12 to Figure 14As shown, the end plate 220 further includes a second elastic support portion 225, which is used to abut against the third wall 130 to achieve positioning of the battery module 200 in the second direction A2. Based on this, when the battery module 200 is installed in the box body 100, the second elastic support portion 225 abuts against the third wall 130, providing the battery module 200 with installation positioning in the second direction A2, thereby ensuring the reliability of the installation of the battery module 200 in the second direction A2.

[0103] Here, when the battery cell arrangement structure 210 is not expanded, the second elastic support portion 225 abutting against the second wall 120 may mean that the second elastic support portion 225 just contacts the third wall 130 and the second elastic support portion 225 is in an undeformed state, or it may mean that the second elastic support portion 225 abuts against the third wall 130 and is in a deformed state. The embodiment of the present application is not limited to this.

[0104] Optionally, in one embodiment of the present application, the battery module 200 is interference fit with the box 100, and the second elastic support portion 225 is configured to absorb the interference in the second direction A2 by generating elastic deformation. That is, in this embodiment, when the battery cell arrangement structure 210 is not expanded, the second elastic support portion 225 abuts against the third wall 130 and is in a deformed state. In addition to the above-mentioned ability to provide the battery module 200 with installation positioning in the second direction A2, this arrangement also has at least the following two benefits: First, after the battery module 200 is assembled in place, the second elastic support portion 225 provides the battery module 200 with an assembly margin in the second direction A2, so that the dimensional error of the battery module 200 in the second direction A2 can be offset by the deformation of the second elastic support portion 225. For example, when the size of the battery module 200 in the second direction A2 is greater than the installation size of the box 100 in the corresponding direction, the battery module 200 can be smoothly loaded into the box 100 through the deformation of the second elastic support portion 225. Therefore, the requirements for the processing and assembly accuracy of the battery module 200 in the second direction A2 are reduced. Second, after the battery module 200 is assembled in place, since the second elastic support portion 225 is in a deformed state, the reaction force of the third wall 130 can be transmitted to the battery cell arrangement structure 210. The battery cell 211 is subjected to a certain amount of pressure, which is conducive to ensuring good interface contact between the anode electrode sheet and the cathode electrode sheet inside the battery cell 211.

[0105] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of the present application, the above-mentioned second elastic support portion 225 can be set between the battery module 200 and one of the third walls 130, that is, the second elastic support portion 225 is set only on one side of the end plate 220, or the above-mentioned second elastic support portion 225 can be set between the battery module 200 and a pair of third walls 130, that is, the second elastic support portion 225 is set on both opposite sides of the end plate 220.

[0106] Alternatively, if Fig.13 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the second elastic support portion 225 is disposed on two opposite sides of the end plate body 223 along the second direction A2, that is, the second elastic support portion 225 is disposed on both opposite sides of the end plate body 223 along the second direction A2.

[0107] In such Figures 11 to 14 In the illustrated embodiment, the projection of the housing 100 for accommodating the battery module 200 on the horizontal plane is a rectangle, the first direction A1 is the length direction of the rectangle, and the second direction A2 is the width direction of the rectangle. Since the battery module 200 is provided with the first elastic support portion 224 and the second elastic support portion 225 in the first direction A1 and the second direction A2, respectively, a reliable installation positioning can be provided for the battery module 200.

[0108] It is understandable that in other embodiments of the present application, the projection of the accommodating cavity of the box body 100 for accommodating the battery module 200 on the horizontal plane may be other shapes, such as a combination of a rectangle and a trapezoid.

[0109] like Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, at least a portion of the second elastic support portion 225 extends upward from the end plate body 223 toward the third wall 130. In this way, the portion of the second elastic support portion 225 extending upward can abut against the third wall 130 to achieve the installation and positioning of the second elastic support portion 225 and the third wall 130, and the second elastic support portion 225 extends upward obliquely, which is conducive to the second elastic support portion being squeezed and deformed by the third wall 130.

[0110] The embodiment of the present application does not limit the specific structure of the second elastic support portion 225. Fig.15As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the second elastic support portion 225 includes a first section 2251 and a second section 2252, the first section 2251 extends from the end plate body 223 toward the third wall 130 and extends upwardly obliquely, the second section 2252 extends upwardly from one end of the first section 2251 away from the end plate body 223, and the second section 2252 is used to abut against the third wall 130. Based on this, the first section 2251 is arranged obliquely upward, which can play a certain guiding role. The second section 2252 extends in the up-down direction, and can form a surface contact with the third wall 130, which is conducive to the extrusion and fit of the two. Moreover, there is a gap between the second section 2252 and the end plate body 223, which is conducive to the deformation of the second section 2252 when extruded with the third wall 130.

[0111] In other embodiments of the present application, the second elastic support portion 225 may be configured as an elastic strip extending in the up-down direction.

[0112] In order to facilitate the installation of the battery module 200 into the box body 100, Fig.15 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the end plate 220 also includes a guide portion 226, which is located below the second elastic support portion 225, and the guide portion 226 has a guide slope 2261, which is used to guide the end plate 220 when it is installed into the box body 100.

[0113] In order to prevent the guide portion 226 from affecting the normal operation of the second elastic support portion 225, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, there may be a gap between the guide portion and the third wall 130. In other words, Fig.15 As shown, the height of the guide portion protruding from the end plate body 223 in the second direction A2 is smaller than the height of the second elastic support portion 225 protruding from the end plate body 223 in the second direction A2.

[0114] In the embodiment of the present application, the lower end of the battery cell arrangement structure 210 may be attached to the first wall 110 , and a gap is formed between the lower end of the end plate 220 and the first wall 110 to ensure contact between the battery cell arrangement structure 210 and the first wall 110 .

[0115] It should be noted that the “attachment” mentioned above may refer to the lower end of the battery cell arrangement structure 210 being in contact with but not connected to the first wall 110 , or the lower end of the battery cell arrangement structure 210 being in contact with and connected to the first wall 110 , for example, the two are bonded together using glue.

[0116] like Fig.16 As shown, according to another aspect of the present application, a method for preparing a battery 10 is provided, for example, a method for preparing the battery 10 mentioned above, the method comprising the following steps:

[0117] S1: Provide a box 110;

[0118] S2: Provide a battery module 120, the battery module 200 includes a battery cell arrangement structure 210 and an end plate 220, the battery cell arrangement structure 210 includes a plurality of battery cells 211 stacked on each other, for example, including a plurality of battery cells 211 stacked on each other along a first direction A1. The end plate 220 is fixedly connected to the battery cell arrangement structure 110, and the end plate 220 includes a first elastic support portion 224, and the first elastic support portion 224 is configured to abut against the inner wall of the box body 100 when the battery cell arrangement structure 210 expands and is squeezed and deformed by the battery cell arrangement structure 210, so as to provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure 210;

[0119] S3: Install the battery module 200 in the box body 100 so that the end plate 220 is located between the inner wall of the box body 100 and the battery cell arrangement structure 210 .

[0120] The battery module 200 and the housing 100 may be the battery module 200 and the housing 100 mentioned above.

[0121] It should be noted that, in the absence of conflict, the features in the embodiments of this application may be combined with each other.

[0122] The above are only preferred embodiments of the present application and are not intended to limit the present application. For those skilled in the art, the present application may have various modifications and variations. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made within the spirit and principle of the present application shall be included in the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A battery, characterized in that: include: The box body comprises a first wall and a second wall, wherein the second wall is connected to the first wall and extends upward; a battery module, arranged in the box, the battery module is located above the first wall, and comprises a battery cell arrangement structure and an end plate, the battery cell arrangement structure comprises a plurality of battery cells stacked along a first direction, the end plate is arranged between the second wall of the box and the battery cell arrangement structure, and the end plate is fixedly connected to the battery cell arrangement structure; Wherein, the end plate includes a first elastic support portion, which is configured to abut against the second wall of the box body and be squeezed and deformed by the battery cell arrangement structure when the battery cell arrangement structure expands, so as to provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure.

2. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that At least a portion of the first elastic support portion extends obliquely upward toward the second wall.

3. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that The end plate further includes an end plate body having a first surface facing the battery cell arrangement structure and a second surface away from the battery cell arrangement structure, and the first elastic support portion is disposed on the second surface.

4. The battery according to claim 3, characterized in that The orthographic projection of the first elastic support portion on the horizontal plane is in the shape of an elongated strip, a surface where one long side of the elongated strip is located is connected to the second surface, and a surface where the other long side of the elongated strip is located is used to abut against the second wall.

5. The battery according to claim 3, characterized in that There are a plurality of the first elastic support parts, and the plurality of the first elastic support parts are arranged on the second surface at intervals in the up-down direction.

6. The battery according to claim 3, characterized in that There are a plurality of the first elastic supporting portions, and the plurality of the first elastic supporting portions are arranged in a rectangular array on the second surface.

7. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that The box body includes a pair of second walls, which are arranged opposite to each other along the first direction. When the battery cell arrangement structure is not expanded, the first elastic support portion abuts against the second wall to achieve positioning of the battery module in the first direction.

8. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that The battery module is interference-fitted with the box, and the first elastic support portion is configured to absorb the interference in the first direction by generating elastic deformation.

9. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that The box body further includes a pair of third walls, the pair of third walls are both connected to the first wall and extend upward, the pair of third walls are arranged opposite to each other along a second direction, and the second direction intersects with the first direction; The end plate further includes a second elastic support portion, and the second elastic support portion is used to abut against the third wall to achieve positioning of the battery module in the second direction.

10. The battery according to claim 9, characterized in that The battery module is interference-fitted with the box body, and the second elastic support portion is configured to absorb the interference in the second direction by generating elastic deformation.

11. The battery according to claim 9, characterized in that The end plate further includes an end plate body, and the second elastic support portion is disposed on two opposite sides of the end plate body along the second direction.

12. The battery according to claim 11, characterized in that At least a portion of the second elastic support portion extends from the end plate body toward the third wall and upward.

13. The battery according to claim 11, characterized in that The second elastic support portion includes a first section and a second section, wherein the first section extends obliquely upward from the end plate body toward the third wall, and the second section extends upward from an end of the first section away from the end plate body, and the second section is used to abut against the third wall.

14. The battery according to claim 11, characterized in that The end plate also includes a guide portion, which is arranged on two opposite sides of the end plate body along the second direction, and is located below the second elastic support portion. The guide portion has a guide slope, and the guide slope is used to guide the end plate when it is installed in the box.

15. The battery according to claim 14, characterized in that A gap is defined between the guide portion and the third wall.

16. The battery according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that The lower end of the battery cell arrangement structure is attached to the first wall, and a gap is formed between the lower end of the end plate and the first wall.

17. An electrical device, characterized in that: Comprising a battery according to any one of claims 1-16.

18. A method for preparing a battery, characterized in that: The method includes: Providing a box body, the box body comprising a first wall and a second wall, the second wall being connected to the first wall and extending upward; A battery module is provided, the battery module is arranged above the first wall, the battery module comprises a battery cell arrangement structure and an end plate, the battery cell arrangement structure comprises a plurality of battery cells stacked on each other, the end plate is fixedly connected to the battery cell arrangement structure, the end plate comprises a first elastic support portion, the first elastic support portion is configured to abut against the second wall of the box body when the battery cell arrangement structure expands and be squeezed and deformed by the battery cell arrangement structure to provide expansion space for the battery cell arrangement structure; The battery module is installed in the box so that the end plate is located between the second wall of the box and the battery cell arrangement structure.

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