Connectors, liquid-cooled cable assemblies, and fast-charging equipment for power batteries

Abstract

The present application discloses a connector, a liquid-cooled cable assembly, and a fast-charging device for a power battery. The connector includes: at least two connecting parts, each of which includes a first part and a second part that are arranged opposite to each other, the inner diameter of the second part is smaller than the inner diameter of the first part, and a first channel is formed on the connecting part that passes through the first part and the second part; a connecting part, a second channel is formed in the connecting part, and the two first channels are connected through the second channel; a first fixing part is configured to cooperate with the first part to fix the liquid-cooled cable and connect the first channel with the cooling channel inside the liquid-cooled cable; a second fixing part is configured to cooperate with the second part to fix the liquid-cooled cable and close the first channel. In the above manner, the structure of the connector is simplified, making it convenient to install and disassemble, and the connecting part enables the cooling channel between the two liquid-cooled cables to form a cooling cycle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of fast charging of power batteries, and specifically to a connector, a liquid-cooled cable assembly, and a fast charging device for power batteries. Background Art

[0002] Energy conservation and environmental protection are key to the sustainable development of most industries. For example, electric vehicles, due to their energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages, have become a crucial component of the sustainable development of the automotive industry. Electric vehicles are powered by power batteries, which are also used in electric vehicles, electric aircraft, electric ships, power tools, and more. Electric vehicles and other types of vehicles require a large amount of power from power batteries, resulting in longer charging times, leading to an increasing demand for fast-charging equipment.

[0003] Because fast-charging equipment needs to provide a large amount of power to the power battery in a short period of time, it is often necessary to test the cable to determine the condition of the cable and prevent failure. Therefore, it is very necessary to be able to quickly test fast-charging equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present application provides a connector, a liquid-cooled cable assembly, and a fast-charging device for a power battery, which can simplify the structure of the liquid-cooled cable end connector, achieve rapid installation and disassembly, and facilitate rapid detection.

[0005] To solve the above technical problems, a technical solution adopted in the present application is: providing a connector for fixing a liquid cooling cable, the connector comprising: at least two connecting parts, each of the connecting parts comprising a first part and a second part arranged opposite to each other, the inner diameter of the second part being smaller than the inner diameter of the first part, and a first channel passing through the first part and the second part being formed on the connecting part; a connecting part, a second channel being formed in the connecting part, and the two ends of the connecting part being respectively connected between the first part and the second part of the two connecting parts so that the two first channels are connected through the second channel; a first fixing part being configured to cooperate with the first part to fix the liquid cooling cable and to connect the first channel with the cooling channel inside the liquid cooling cable; a second fixing part being configured to cooperate with the second part to fix the liquid cooling cable and to close the first channel.

[0006] The liquid cooling cable can be fixed by cooperating the first fixing member and the second fixing member with the first part and the second part of the connecting member. The smaller inner diameter of the second part can also better prevent the occurrence of liquid leakage. While ensuring the stability of the connector connection, the structure of the connector is simplified, making it easy to install and disassemble, and the connecting member enables the cooling channel between the two liquid cooling cables to form a cooling cycle.

[0007] In some embodiments, the connector further includes a seal, which abuts against the end of the second part away from the first part, and the second fixing member, the second part and the liquid-cooling cable jointly clamp the seal to close the gap between the end of the second part of the connector away from the first part and the liquid-cooling cable.

[0008] By providing the sealing member, the gap between the second portion of the connector and the liquid-cooling cable can be further sealed, thereby achieving a good sealing effect and further preventing liquid leakage.

[0009] In some embodiments, an inner diameter of an end portion of the second fixing member away from the first portion is smaller than an inner diameter of a portion where the second fixing member is connected to the second portion.

[0010] This arrangement enables the second fixing member to better clamp the sealing member, thereby ensuring the sealing effect of the sealing member.

[0011] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the second portion is a snap-fitting member and / or a slot, and the second fixing member is formed with a corresponding slot and / or snap-fitting member.

[0012] Through the cooperation between the engaging member and the engaging slot, the second part and the second fixing member are connected in an engaging manner, which simplifies the structure between the second part and the second fixing member and facilitates installation and disassembly.

[0013] In some embodiments, an external thread is formed on an outer wall of the second portion, the second fixing member is a nut, and an internal thread is formed on an inner wall of the second fixing member.

[0014] The internal thread of the nut and the external thread on the second part form a screw connection, which is more convenient for installation and disassembly, and this connection method can also be waterproof to a certain extent.

[0015] In some embodiments, a barrier wall is formed at a position of the first portion adjacent to the second portion.

[0016] The barrier wall can limit the position of the liquid cooling cable, eliminating the need for measurement when connecting the liquid cooling cable to the connector, making installation more convenient.

[0017] In some embodiments, a plurality of bosses are provided on the outer wall of the first portion of the connector, the bosses are located on a side of the barrier wall away from the second portion of the connector, and the first fixing member cooperates with the bosses to clamp the liquid cooling cable.

[0018] The provision of the boss can increase the friction force at the connection between the liquid cooling cable and the second part, and cooperate with the first fixing member to better fix the liquid cooling cable.

[0019] In some embodiments, a chamfered structure is formed on an outer side wall of an end portion of the first portion of the connector away from the second portion of the connector.

[0020] The chamfered structure can provide the liquid cooling cable with a buffer slope when plugged into the first part of the connector, thereby enabling faster insertion without the need for detailed alignment.

[0021] In some embodiments, the connecting member and the connecting member are an integrally formed structure.

[0022] The one-piece molding structure can ensure the sealing effect of the connecting piece as a whole and between the connecting piece and the connecting piece, thereby preventing the occurrence of liquid leakage.

[0023] In order to solve the above technical problems, another technical solution adopted in this application is: to provide a liquid-cooled cable assembly, the liquid-cooled cable assembly comprising: at least two liquid-cooled cables; at least two terminals; a connector, the connector being any one of the connectors described above, and each of the connecting parts of the connector is connected to one of the liquid-cooled cables.

[0024] Since the liquid-cooling cable assembly uses the above-mentioned connector, the structure of the connector is simplified, making it convenient to install and disassemble, and enabling a cooling cycle to be formed between the two liquid-cooling cables.

[0025] In some embodiments, the liquid-cooled cable includes: a wire, at least a portion of which is located in the first channel and connected to the terminal; a first insulating layer, disposed on at least a portion of the surface of the wire; a second insulating layer, spaced apart from the first insulating layer, thereby forming a cooling channel between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer, and the cooling channel is connected to the first channel; and a support member, disposed in the cooling channel, connecting the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer.

[0026] By setting the support member, support can be formed between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer, thereby ensuring the distance between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer, making the cooling channel uniform, and preventing the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer from being too close, resulting in a poor cooling effect.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first insulating layer and the conductive wire pass through the first channel of the connector, and one end of the second insulating layer is sleeved on the outer surface of the first part of the connector; the connector is a connector having the barrier wall provided on the first part of the connector, and the end of the second insulating layer is arranged to abut against the barrier wall.

[0028] The second insulating layer is the outer layer of the liquid cooling cable. The second insulating layer is sleeved on the outer surface of the first part of the connector, and can cooperate with the barrier wall to realize the fiber of the liquid cooling cable and enable the cooling channel to communicate with the first channel.

[0029] In some embodiments, a plurality of support members are provided to divide the cooling channel into a plurality of sub-channels.

[0030] A plurality of support members are provided to divide the cooling channel into a plurality of sub-channels, thereby enhancing the strength of the cooling channel, enhancing the support strength for the second insulating layer, and preventing the second insulating layer from being close to the first insulating layer.

[0031] In some embodiments, the support member is spirally arranged with the first insulating layer as an axis, so that the sub-channel is spirally shaped.

[0032] The support member is arranged in a spiral shape, so that the second insulating layer has a position connected to the support member in any axial cross section, thereby providing more uniform support for the second insulating layer and preventing the second insulating layer from being close to the first insulating layer.

[0033] In some embodiments, the end of the wire passes through the first channel and is partially exposed outside the first insulating layer. The terminal is a cavity with an opening on one side, and the end of the wire is inserted into the opening.

[0034] This connection method allows the wire to be directly inserted into the terminal, simplifying the connection between the wire and the terminal and simplifying the structure of the liquid-cooled cable assembly.

[0035] In order to solve the above technical problems, another technical solution adopted in this application is: to provide a fast charging device for a power battery, and the fast charging device includes the liquid-cooled cable assembly described in any one of the above items.

[0036] Since the fast charging device adopts the above-mentioned liquid-cooled cable assembly, the structure of the connector is also simplified, making it easy to install and disassemble, and enabling a cooling cycle to be formed between the two liquid-cooled cables. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for describing the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. Those skilled in the art can also derive other drawings based on these drawings without inventive effort, among which:

[0038] Figure 1 Shown are schematic structural diagrams of some embodiments of vehicles using the battery of the present application;

[0039] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a connector according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0040] Figure 3 shows a partial cross-sectional view of a liquid-cooled cable assembly according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0041] Figure 4 shows a partial structural schematic diagram of a liquid cooling cable assembly according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0042] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional structure diagram of a liquid cooling cable according to some embodiments of the present application is shown.

[0043] Marking Description:

[0044] Vehicle 1, battery 10, controller 30, motor 40;

[0045] Liquid cooling cable assembly 50, liquid cooling cable 51, terminal 52, connector 53;

[0046] Wire 511, first insulating layer 512, second insulating layer 513, support member 514, cooling channel 515, cavity 521, connector 530, first portion 531, second portion 532, first channel 533, connecting member 534, second channel 535, barrier wall 536, first fixing member 537, second fixing member 538, sealing member 539, chamfered structure 540. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] To make the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of this application more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings showing multiple embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments described in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without expending creative work will fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0048] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meanings as commonly understood by one skilled in the art to which this application belongs. The terms used in this application's specification and claims are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit this application. The terms "including," "comprising," "having," "having," "containing," and "containing" in the specification and claims of this application and the accompanying drawings are open-ended terms. Thus, "including," "comprising," and "having" refer, for example, to a method or apparatus having one or more steps or elements, but are not limited to having only those one or more elements. The terms "first," "second," and "first" in the specification and claims of this application and the accompanying drawings are used to distinguish between different objects, not to describe a specific order or priority. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed to indicate or imply relative importance or to implicitly specify the number of the technical features indicated. Thus, a feature designated "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. Throughout this application, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0049] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "lateral", "length", "width", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and 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 should not be understood as a limitation on the present application.

[0050] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "connected," and "attached" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they may refer to direct connections, indirect connections through an intermediate medium, or internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in this application based on specific circumstances.

[0051] References to "embodiments" in this application mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it refer to independent or alternative embodiments that are mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It is understood, both explicitly and implicitly, by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in this application may be combined with other embodiments.

[0052] As mentioned above, it should be emphasized that when the term "include / comprises" is used in this specification, it is used to clearly indicate the presence of the features, integers, steps or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups of features, integers, steps, components. As used in this application, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" also include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0053] The terms "a" and "an" used in this specification may mean one, but may also have the same meaning as "at least one" or "one or more." The term "about" generally means plus or minus 10%, or more specifically, plus or minus 5%, of the referenced value. The term "or" used in the claims means "and / or" unless it is expressly stated that it refers only to alternatives.

[0054] The term "and / or" in this application simply describes an association between related objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0055] Batteries mentioned in this field can be categorized as either primary batteries or rechargeable batteries, depending on whether they are rechargeable. Primary batteries are also called "disposable" batteries or primary batteries because once they are depleted, they cannot be recharged and must be discarded. Rechargeable batteries are also called secondary batteries, secondary batteries, or storage batteries. Rechargeable batteries are manufactured using materials and processes that differ from primary batteries. Their advantage is that they can be reused multiple times after charging, and their output current capacity is higher than that of most primary batteries. Common types of rechargeable batteries include lead-acid batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries offer advantages such as light weight, high capacity (1.5 to 2 times that of nickel-metal hydride batteries of the same weight), no memory effect, and a very low self-discharge rate. Consequently, despite their relatively high price, they are widely used. Lithium-ion batteries are also widely used in pure electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles. While the capacity of lithium-ion batteries used for these applications is relatively low, they offer high output, high charging current, and a long service life, albeit at a higher cost.

[0056] The batteries described in the embodiments of the present application refer to rechargeable batteries or disposable batteries. The embodiments disclosed in the present application will be described below mainly using lithium-ion batteries as an example. It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed in the present application are applicable to any other appropriate type of rechargeable batteries. The batteries mentioned in the embodiments disclosed in the present application can be directly or indirectly applied to appropriate devices to power the devices. When a battery provides a larger output, it can also be called a power battery, which is generally used in electric vehicles, electric aircraft, electric ships, large electric tools and large electric toys or models, etc.

[0057] The battery referred to in the embodiments disclosed herein refers to a single physical module comprising one or more battery cells to provide a predetermined voltage and capacity. For example, the battery referred to herein may include a battery module or a battery pack. A battery cell is the basic unit in a battery and is generally categorized by packaging method as: cylindrical battery cells, prismatic battery cells, and pouch battery cells.

[0058] Multiple battery cells can be connected in series and / or in parallel via electrode terminals for use in various applications. In high-power applications such as electric vehicles, battery applications are divided into three levels: battery cells, battery modules, and battery packs. A battery module is a system consisting of a number of battery cells electrically connected together and housed in a frame to protect the cells from external shock, heat, and vibration. A battery pack is the final battery system installed in an electric vehicle. A battery pack typically includes a housing that encloses one or more battery cells. The housing prevents liquids or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells. The housing typically consists of a cover and a casing, which typically includes a bottom plate and outer panels. The outer panels extend from the edge of the bottom plate, generally perpendicular to the bottom plate. The bottom plate and outer panels form a storage space with an opening for accommodating battery cells or battery modules. The cover covers the opening of the storage space, facing the bottom plate and connecting to the outer panels. The connection between the casing and the cover can be removable or sealed. Most current battery packs are made by assembling various control and protection systems such as a battery management system (BMS) and thermal management components on one or more battery modules. With the development of technology, the battery module layer can be omitted, that is, the battery pack is directly formed from battery cells. This improvement has increased the weight energy density and volume energy density of the battery system while significantly reducing the number of components. The batteries mentioned in this application include battery modules or battery packs.

[0059] The inventors of the present invention noticed that during the charging process of the battery, especially the power battery, the charging time is very long due to its large capacity. Fast charging equipment was born for this reason. In fast charging equipment, the wires will generate a lot of heat. If it is not dissipated in time, it is easy to cause a safety accident. Therefore, liquid cooling cables are used in many fast charging devices to ensure the dissipation of heat. However, after using the liquid cooling cable, the liquid cooling cable needs to use a connector to fix its end to prevent the coolant in the liquid cooling cable from flowing out. However, in the prior art, in order to prevent the coolant from flowing out, the structure of the connector is often very complicated. When connecting the connector to the liquid cooling cable, the installation is very inconvenient. In addition, when testing the liquid cooling cable, the disassembly and installation process is also very complicated.

[0060] To address the connector's complex structure, making it difficult to install and remove, the applicant discovered that a connector with different inner diameters could be used, combined with two fixings, to secure the connector to the cable at both ends. The side with the smaller inner diameter, when fitted with the fixing, also provides a good seal, preventing leakage. This approach offers a simple structure, facilitates installation and removal, and also effectively prevents leakage.

[0061] Based on the above considerations, in order to solve the problem that the connector has a complex structure and is not conducive to installation and disassembly, the inventors conducted in-depth research and designed a connector, a liquid-cooled cable assembly and a fast charging device for a power battery.

[0062] Devices to which the batteries described in the embodiments of the present application are applicable include, but are not limited to, electric vehicles, electric ships, spacecraft, electric toys, electric tools, and the like. For example, spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, and the like. Electric toys include fixed or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric vehicle toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, and the like. 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, impact drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers.

[0063] The battery described in the embodiments of the present application is not limited to the devices described above, but can also be applied to all devices that use batteries. However, for the sake of simplicity, the following embodiments are explained using electric vehicles as an example.

[0064] For example, Figure 1As shown, this figure is a simple schematic diagram of a vehicle 1 according to one embodiment of the present application. The vehicle 1 can be a fuel vehicle, a gas vehicle or a new energy vehicle. The new energy vehicle can be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle or an extended-range vehicle, etc. A battery 10 can be set inside the vehicle 1, for example, the battery 10 can be set at the bottom, front or rear of the vehicle 1. The battery 10 can be used to power the vehicle 1, for example, the battery 10 can be used as an operating power source for the vehicle 1. And the vehicle 1 can also include a controller 30 and a motor 40. The controller 30 is used to control the battery 10 to power the motor 40, for example, for the starting, navigation and driving power requirements of the vehicle 1. In another embodiment of the present application, the battery 10 can not only be used as the operating power source of the vehicle 1, but also as the driving power source of the vehicle 1, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1. The battery 10 referred to below can also be understood as a battery pack including multiple battery cells.

[0065] See also Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a connector 53 according to some embodiments of the present application, Figure 3A partial cross-sectional view of a liquid cooling cable assembly 50 according to some embodiments of the present application is shown. The connector 53 in this embodiment is used to secure the liquid cooling cable 51 and includes two connectors 530, a connecting member 534, a first fixing member 537, and a second fixing member 538. Each connector 530 includes a first portion 531 and a second portion 532 positioned opposite each other. The first portion 531 and the second portion 532 are spaced apart, and the inner diameter of the second portion 532 is smaller than that of the first portion 531. Specifically, the inner diameter of the second portion 532 is smaller than that of the first portion 531 and the connecting portion connecting the first and second portions 531 and 532. The first and second portions 531 and 532 are located at opposite ends of the connector 530 and can be oriented in the same or different directions. In other words, the connector 530 can extend in a straight line or be bent at an angle. The connector 530 is preferably tubular. A first channel 533 is formed in the connector 530, extending through the first and second portions 531 and 532. A second channel 535 is formed in the connecting member 534. The two ends of the connecting member 534 are respectively connected to the first portion 531 and the second portion 532 of the two connecting members 530, so that the two first channels 533 are connected through the second channel 535. The connecting member 534 is preferably a tubular structure, and the second channel 535 is preferably a straight channel. In some embodiments, depending on specific needs, the second channel 535 can also be a curved or zigzag channel. For example, the connecting member 534 can be curved to increase strength or to adapt to other components. The first fixing member 537 is configured to cooperate with the first portion 531 to secure the liquid cooling cable 51 and connect the first channel 533 to the cooling channel 515 within the liquid cooling cable 51. The first fixing member 537 is provided to cooperate with the first portion 531 to secure and seal the liquid cooling cable 51, preventing movement of the liquid cooling cable 51 and preventing the coolant in the liquid cooling cable 51 from leaking. After the first fixing member 537 cooperates with the first portion 531 to secure the liquid-cooling cable 51, the coolant in the liquid-cooling cable 51 flows through the cooling channel 515 of the liquid-cooling cable 51 into the first channel 533 and can then circulate with the coolant in other liquid-cooling cables 51 through the second channel 535. The second fixing member 538 is configured to cooperate with the second portion 532 to secure the liquid-cooling cable 51 and close the first channel 533. The second fixing member 538 cooperates with the second portion 532 to secure the portion of the liquid-cooling cable 51 that passes through the first channel 533 and close the first channel 533, preventing the coolant from flowing out of the first channel 533.

[0066] The connector 530 is used to connect the liquid cooling cable 51. The first channel 533 is a channel formed in the connector 530 for passing the wire 511 and coolant in the liquid cooling cable 51. The second channel 535 is a channel formed in the connecting member 534 for connecting the two first channels 533 to form a circulation system. The inner diameter is the diameter of the inner wall. A linear channel is a channel extending in a straight line, a curved channel is a channel extending in a curved line, and a zigzag channel is a channel composed of multiple linear channels arranged at an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees. The first fixing member 537 is used to secure the liquid cooling cable 51 in conjunction with the first portion 531, and the second fixing member 538 is used to secure the liquid cooling cable 51 in conjunction with the second portion 532. The first fixing member 537 and the second fixing member 538 can be components that lock the first portion 531 and the second portion 532 together under external force and maintain the lock even after the external force is removed. For example, it can be an elastic member, a cable tie, a cable tie, a locking belt, etc.

[0067] By cooperating with the first fixing member 537 and the second fixing member 538 in conjunction with the first part 531 and the second part 532 of the connecting member 530, the end of the liquid-cooling cable 51 can be fixed. The smaller inner diameter of the second part 532 can also better prevent the occurrence of liquid leakage. While ensuring the stable connection of the connector 53, the structure of the connector 53 is simplified, making it convenient to install and disassemble, and the connecting member 534 enables the cooling channel 515 between the two liquid-cooling cables 51 to form a cooling cycle.

[0068] In this embodiment, the connector 53 further includes a sealing member 539. The sealing member 539 abuts against the end of the second portion 532 away from the first portion 531. The second fixing member 538, the second portion 532, and the liquid-cooling cable 51 jointly clamp the sealing member 539 to close the gap between the end of the second portion 532 of the connector 530 away from the first portion 531 and the liquid-cooling cable 51.

[0069] Seal 539 is an annular component used for sealing. It is clamped and squeezed between two components, and can undergo a certain degree of deformation, thereby being able to adhere closely to other components and prevent the flow of liquid or gas. Seal 539 can be, for example, a waterproof gasket, a waterproof ring, a rubber ring, etc. Seal 539 is preferably made of an elastic material or a material with a high mechanical damping coefficient, such as vulcanized rubber with a mechanical damping coefficient greater than 0.05 or hard rubber with a mechanical damping coefficient of 1.

[0070] By providing the sealing member 539 , the gap between the second portion 532 of the connector 530 and the liquid-cooling cable 51 can be further sealed, thereby achieving a good sealing effect and further preventing liquid leakage.

[0071] In this embodiment, the inner diameter of the end of the second fixing member 538 distal to the first portion 531 is smaller than the inner diameter of the second fixing member 538 where it connects to the second portion 532. Specifically, along the length of the second fixing member 538, the portion of the second fixing member 538 that connects to the second portion 532 has an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the second portion 532. The end of the second fixing member 538 distal to the first portion 531 is not directly connected to the second portion 532, but instead is interferingly connected to the liquid cooling cable 51. This end of the second fixing member 538 needs to clamp the seal 539 with the second portion 532. Therefore, the inner diameter of this end is the same as, or slightly smaller than, the inner diameter of the second portion 532, thereby forming an interference fit with the liquid cooling cable 51 and enhancing sealing reliability. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the second portion 532 is formed with a snap-fit ​​feature and / or a slot, and the second fixing member 538 is formed with a corresponding slot and / or snap-fit ​​feature. This arrangement creates a snap-fit ​​connection, allowing the second fixing member 538 to engage with the second portion 532. In this embodiment, the outer wall of the second portion 532 is formed with external threads, the second fixing member 538 is a nut, and the inner wall of the second fixing member 538 is formed with internal threads. This structural design allows the second fixing member 538 to be connected to the second portion 532 via a threaded connection. In this case, the outer diameter of the second portion 532 is smaller than the outer diameter of the rest of the connector 530, thereby forming a protrusion on the edge of the second portion 532 facing the first portion 531, which serves to limit the position of the second fixing member 538.

[0072] The outer diameter is the diameter of the outer wall of a component or a specific location on it. A slot can be either a through slot or a blind slot. A through slot is a groove that passes through two opposing sides of a component, creating a continuous path through the component. A blind slot is a recessed groove formed on one side of a component with an opening but not through the component. A snap-fit ​​element is a raised structure that snaps into place in a slot.

[0073] This arrangement allows the second fixing member 538 to better grip the sealing member 539, thereby ensuring the sealing effect of the sealing member 539. The engagement of the engaging member and the slot allows the second portion 532 to be connected to the second fixing member 538 in a snap-fit ​​manner, simplifying the structure between the second portion 532 and the second fixing member 538 and facilitating installation and removal. The internal threads of the nut and the external threads on the second portion 532 form a threaded connection, making installation and removal more convenient and providing a degree of waterproofing.

[0074] In this embodiment, a wall 536 is formed near the first portion 531 and the second portion 532. The barrier wall 536 is an annular structure. In other embodiments, it can also be a protrusion formed near the first portion 531 and the second portion 532. The protrusion can be a single protrusion or multiple protrusions spaced apart from each other. Preferably, the barrier wall 536 is arranged perpendicular to the axis of the connector 530. The outer wall of the first portion 531 of the connector 530 is provided with multiple bosses. The bosses are located on the side of the barrier wall 536 away from the second portion 532 of the connector 530. The first fixing member 537 cooperates with the bosses to clamp the liquid cooling cable 51. The height of the bosses is lower than that of the barrier wall 536. The cross-section of the bosses along the axis of the connector 530 can be a trapezoid, a triangle, a parallelogram, etc., or the surface of the bosses can be a single arc or a combination of multiple arcs. The boss can extend toward the second portion 532 in a direction away from the surface of the second portion 532, thereby forming a chamfered structure. A chamfered structure 540 is formed on the outer side wall of the end of the first portion 531 of the connector 530 away from the second portion 532 of the connector 530.

[0075] The barrier wall 536 is formed by extending outward from the outer surface of the first portion 531. The boss is also formed by extending outward from the outer surface of the first portion 531. The height of the barrier wall 536 is the distance from the location where the barrier wall 536 connects to the first portion 531 in the radial direction of the first portion 531 to the surface of the barrier wall 536 that is distal to the first portion 531. The height of the boss is the distance from the location where the boss connects to the first portion 531 in the radial direction of the first portion 531 to the surface of the boss that is distal to the first portion 531. The chamfered structure 540 is a sloped structure that gradually approaches the axis of the connector 530 as the first portion 531 moves away from the second portion 532.

[0076] The barrier 536 limits the position of the liquid-cooling cable 51, eliminating the need for measurement when connecting the liquid-cooling cable 51 to the connector 53, making installation more convenient. The boss increases friction at the connection between the liquid-cooling cable 51 and the second portion 532, and in conjunction with the first fixing member 537, better secures the liquid-cooling cable 51. The chamfered structure 540 provides a buffering slope when plugging the liquid-cooling cable 51 into the first portion 531 of the connector 530, allowing for faster insertion without the need for meticulous alignment.

[0077] In this embodiment, the connecting member 530 and the connecting member 534 are integrally formed. Figure 2 The portion shown is an integrally formed structure. In addition, preferably, the connecting member 530, the connecting member 534 and the second fixing member 538 are all insulators and do not conduct electricity. The first fixing member 537 is also preferably an insulator.

[0078] One-piece molding, also known as one-shot molding, refers to a component that is manufactured from a single piece of material, rather than pieced together. One-piece molding can be achieved by stamping, casting, or using a mold. An unibody structure is a component that is molded in one piece. An insulator is an object that does not conduct electricity.

[0079] The one-piece structure can ensure the sealing effect of the entire connector 530 and between the connector 530 and the connecting piece 534, thereby preventing the occurrence of liquid leakage. The use of insulators to make the connector 530 and the connecting piece 534 can also prevent the occurrence of leakage.

[0080] In the above embodiment, the connector 53 is illustrated as having only two connectors 530. In other embodiments, the number of connectors 53 may be increased according to the actual number of liquid-cooling cables 51, and may be three or more. The connecting piece 534 may also connect three or more connecting pieces 530, or every two connecting pieces 530 may be connected by one connecting piece 534.

[0081] Through the above-mentioned method, the connection of multiple liquid cooling cables 51 can be achieved, and the connector 53 has a simple structure and is easy to install and disassemble.

[0082] Please see further Figure 4 The present application also provides a liquid-cooling cable assembly 50. The liquid-cooling cable assembly 50 includes two liquid-cooling cables 51, two terminals 52, and a connector 53. The connector 53 is any of the connectors 53 described above. Each connector 530 of the connector 53 is connected to a liquid-cooling cable 51. One end of the liquid-cooling cable 51 passes through the connector 53 and is connected to the terminal 52. In other embodiments, the number of liquid-cooling cables 51, terminals 52, and connectors 53 can be adjusted according to actual needs. The number of liquid-cooling cables 51 and terminals 52 can be three or more, and the number of connectors 53 can also be two or more.

[0083] The liquid cooling cable 51 is a cable having a cooling channel 515 , which can be filled with cooling liquid, thereby achieving a good heat dissipation effect. The terminal 52 is a metal part that electrically connects the liquid cooling cable assembly 50 to the outside.

[0084] Since the liquid cooling cable assembly 50 uses the aforementioned connector 53 , the structure of the connector 53 is simplified, making it easy to install and remove, and enabling a cooling cycle to be formed between the two liquid cooling cables 51 .

[0085] like Figure 3As shown, in this embodiment, the liquid-cooled cable 51 includes a conductor 511, a first insulating layer 512, a second insulating layer 513, and a support member 514. At least a portion of the conductor 511 is located in the first channel 533 and connected to the terminal 52 at its end. The first insulating layer 512 is disposed on at least a portion of the surface of the conductor 511, exposing the end of the conductor 511 for connection to the terminal 52. Specifically, the first insulating layer 512 and the conductor 511 pass through the first channel 533 of the connector 530. The second insulating layer 513 is spaced apart from the first insulating layer 512, thereby forming a cooling channel 515 between the first and second insulating layers 512, 513. In this embodiment, only one conductor 511 is disposed in each first insulating layer 512, and the cooling channel 515 cools only this one conductor 511. One end of the second insulating layer 513 is sleeved onto the outer surface of the first portion 531 of the connector 530. The connector 53 has a barrier wall 536 disposed on the first portion 531 of the connector 530. The end of the second insulating layer 513 is sleeved on the first portion 531 and abuts against the barrier wall 536. A first fixing member 537 is sleeved over the second insulating layer 513 and cooperates with the first portion 531 of the connector 530 to clamp the second insulating layer 513, thereby securing the liquid-cooling cable 51. If a boss is present on the first portion 531, the first fixing member 537 cooperates with the boss to clamp the second insulating layer 513. The cooling channel 515 communicates with the first channel 533, allowing coolant to flow from the cooling channel 515 to the first channel 533 and then to the other first channels 533 through the second channel 535. A support member 514 is disposed in the cooling channel 515, connecting the first insulating layer 512 and the second insulating layer 513. Specifically, the portion of the first insulating member that passes through the first channel 533, together with the second fixing member 538 and the second portion 532, clamps the sealing member 539 to close the gap between the end of the second portion 532 of the connector 530 that is away from the first portion 531 and the first insulating layer 512. The end of the second fixing member 538 that is away from the first portion 531 preferably contacts or presses against the first insulating layer 512.

[0086] The provision of support member 514 ensures support between first insulation layer 512 and second insulation layer 513, thereby maintaining the distance between first insulation layer 512 and second insulation layer 513, making cooling channel 515 uniform, and preventing the first insulation layer 512 and second insulation layer 513 from being too close, which would result in a poor cooling effect. Second insulation layer 513 is the outer layer of liquid-cooled cable 51. Second insulation layer 513 is sleeved on the outer surface of first portion 531 of connector 530, and can cooperate with barrier wall 536 to cool the fibers of liquid-cooled cable 51 and connect cooling channel 515 with first channel 533. Furthermore, since cooling channel 515 cools only one conductor 511, the cooling effect on conductor 511 can be improved.

[0087] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, four support members 514 are provided to separate the cooling channel 515 into a plurality of sub-channels. In addition, in other embodiments, the number of support members 514 can be three, or more than four. The specific number can be determined according to the thickness of the wire 511 or the height of the cooling channel 515. The thicker the wire 511 or the higher the cooling channel 515, the more support members 514 there are. Therefore, the number of support members 514 is proportional to the diameter of the wire 511 and / or the height of the cooling channel 515. In some embodiments, the support members 514 can be arranged in a spiral shape with the first insulating layer 512 as the axis, so that the sub-channels are spiral.

[0088] The height of the cooling channel 515 is the minimum distance between the first insulating layer 512 and the second insulating layer 513 .

[0089] Multiple support members 514 are provided, dividing the cooling channel 515 into multiple sub-channels. This can enhance the strength of the cooling channel 515 and the support strength for the second insulating layer 513, preventing the second insulating layer 513 from approaching the first insulating layer 512. The support members 514 are arranged in a spiral shape, ensuring that the second insulating layer 513 has a position connected to the support member 514 in any axial cross-section, thereby providing more uniform support for the second insulating layer 513 and preventing the second insulating layer 513 from approaching the first insulating layer 512.

[0090] In some embodiments, the end of the wire 511 passes through the first channel 533 and is partially exposed outside the first insulating layer 512. The terminal 52 is a cavity 521 with an opening on one side, and the end of the wire 511 is inserted into the opening. The terminal 52 is a metal component. During installation, the opening of the cavity 521 can be slightly larger than the end of the wire 511. After the end of the wire 511 is inserted, the terminal 52 is clamped to the wire 511 with external force, thereby connecting the terminal 52 to the wire 511.

[0091] This connection method allows the wire 511 to be directly inserted into the terminal 52 , thereby simplifying the connection between the wire 511 and the terminal 52 and simplifying the structure of the liquid-cooling cable assembly 50 .

[0092] In the above embodiment, only one end of the liquid-cooling cable assembly 50 is shown. The other end can also have a similar structure, namely, connecting the other ends of two liquid-cooling cables 51 via another connector 53. The cooling channels 515 of two adjacent liquid-cooling cables 51 are connected via the first channel 533 and the second channel 535 in the connector 53. This allows the coolant in the cooling channels 515 of the two liquid-cooling cables 51 to circulate. Generally, one of the two liquid-cooling cables 51 in the same group is a positive line and the other is a negative line. The coolant in the positive line is higher in temperature, while the coolant in the negative line is lower in temperature. Therefore, the higher-temperature coolant in the positive line is circulated to the negative line through the first channel 533 and the second channel 535, and the lower-temperature coolant in the negative line is then circulated to the positive line through the first channel 533 and the second channel 535. This circulation further enhances the cooling effect of the coolant, thereby improving the heat dissipation function of the liquid-cooling cables 51.

[0093] The present application also provides a fast charging device for a power battery, the fast charging device including any one of the liquid-cooled cable assemblies 50 described above.

[0094] Since the fast charging device adopts the above-mentioned liquid-cooled cable assembly 50, the structure of the connector 53 is also simplified, making it convenient to install and disassemble, and enabling a cooling cycle to be formed between the two liquid-cooled cables 51.

[0095] In some specific application scenarios, the liquid cooling cable assembly 50 includes two liquid cooling cables 51, a connector 53, and a terminal 52. The connector 53 includes two connectors 530 and a connecting piece 534. The two connectors 530 are used to fix one end of the two liquid cooling cables 51. The connectors 530 have a first portion 531 with a boss formed on its outer surface and a second portion 532 with threads formed on its outer surface. The connectors 530 have a first channel 533 formed in them, passing through the first portion 531 and the second portion 532. The connecting piece 534 has a second channel 535 formed in it. The connecting piece 534 is connected between the first portion 531 and the second portion 532 of the two connectors 530, respectively, to connect the two first channels 533 through the second channel 535. The liquid-cooling cable 51 includes a conductor 511, a first insulating layer 512 surrounding the conductor 511, a second insulating layer 513 spaced apart from the first insulating layer 512, and a support member 514 disposed between the first and second insulating layers 512, 513. The support member 514 supports the second insulating layer 513, ensuring a distance between the second insulating layer 513 and the first insulating layer 512, thereby ensuring the height of the cooling channel 515. A first fixing member 537, in conjunction with a first portion 531 having a boss, clamps the second insulating layer 513 of the liquid-cooling cable 511. A nut, in conjunction with a sealing washer and the second portion 532, seals the first channel 533 to prevent leakage.

[0096] Through the above method, the support member 514 structure is designed inside the cooling channel 515 to provide support and fixation for the cooling channel 515, ensuring the height of the cooling pipe is balanced, and the wire 511 can evenly dissipate heat, preventing overheating. The connector 53 is internally formed with a first channel 533 and a second channel 535 that are connected. Therefore, the coolant passes through the two liquid cooling cables 51 and the connector 53 to form a cooling cycle. The connector 53 has a simple structure and can reduce the risk of failure.

[0097] The above description is only an implementation method of the present application and does not limit the patent scope of the present application. Any equivalent structure or equivalent process transformation made using the contents of the description and drawings of this application, or directly or indirectly applied in other related technical fields, are also included in the patent protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A connector, characterized in that: Used to fix liquid cooling cables, the connector includes: at least two connecting members, each of the connecting members comprising a first portion and a second portion disposed opposite to each other, the inner diameter of the second portion being smaller than the inner diameter of the first portion, and a first channel being formed on the connecting member and passing through the first portion and the second portion; a connecting piece, wherein a second channel is formed in the connecting piece, and two ends of the connecting piece are respectively connected between the first portion and the second portion of the two connecting pieces, so that the two first channels are connected through the second channel; a first fixing member configured to cooperate with the first portion to fix the liquid-cooling cable and to connect the first channel with a cooling channel inside the liquid-cooling cable; The second fixing member is configured to cooperate with the second part to fix the liquid cooling cable and close the first channel.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The connector also includes a sealing member, which abuts against the end of the second part away from the first part. The second fixing member, the second part and the liquid cooling cable jointly clamp the sealing member to close the gap between the end of the second part of the connector away from the first part and the liquid cooling cable.

3. The connector according to claim 2, wherein: An inner diameter of an end portion of the second fixing member away from the first portion is smaller than an inner diameter of a portion where the second fixing member is connected to the second portion.

4. The connector according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: The outer surface of the second portion is a snap-fitting member and / or a slot, and the second fixing member is formed with a corresponding slot and / or snap-fitting member.

5. The connector according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: An external thread is formed on the outer wall of the second part, the second fixing member is a nut, and an internal thread is formed on the inner wall of the second fixing member.

6. The connector according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: A barrier wall is formed at a position of the first portion adjacent to the second portion.

7. The connector according to claim 6, wherein: A plurality of bosses are provided on the outer wall of the first portion of the connector. The bosses are located on a side of the barrier wall away from the second portion of the connector. The first fixing member cooperates with the bosses to clamp the liquid cooling cable.

8. The connector according to claim 6, wherein: A chamfered structure is formed on an outer side wall of an end portion of the first portion of the connecting member away from the second portion of the connecting member.

9. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting piece and the connecting piece are an integrally formed structure.

10. A liquid cooling cable assembly, characterized in that: The liquid-cooled cable assembly comprises: At least two liquid cooling cables; At least two terminals; At least one connector, wherein the connector is the connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and each of the connecting members of the connector is connected to one of the liquid-cooling cables.

11. The liquid cooling cable assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that: The liquid cooling cable comprises: a wire, at least a portion of which is located in the first channel and connected to the terminal; a first insulating layer disposed on at least a portion of the surface of the conductive wire; a second insulating layer, spaced apart from the first insulating layer, so that a cooling channel is formed between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer, the cooling channel being in communication with the first channel; A support member is disposed in the cooling channel and connects the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer.

12. The liquid cooling cable assembly according to claim 11, wherein: The first insulating layer and the conductive wire pass through the first passage of the connector, and one end of the second insulating layer is sleeved on the outer surface of the first portion of the connector; The connector is the connector according to any one of claims 6 to 8, and an end portion of the second insulating layer is arranged to contact the barrier wall.

13. The liquid cooling cable assembly according to claim 11, wherein: A plurality of support members are provided to divide the cooling channel into a plurality of sub-channels.

14. The liquid cooling cable assembly according to claim 13, wherein: The support member is arranged in a spiral shape with the first insulating layer as an axis, so that the sub-channel is in a spiral shape.

15. The liquid cooling cable assembly according to claim 11, wherein: The end of the wire passes through the first channel and is partially exposed outside the first insulating layer. The terminal is a cavity with an opening on one side, and the end of the wire is inserted into the opening.

16. A fast charging device for a power battery, characterized in that: The fast charging device includes the liquid-cooled cable assembly according to any one of claims 10-15.

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