Battery, electric device, and method and apparatus for manufacturing battery

Abstract

The application relates to a battery, an electric device, and a manufacturing method and manufacturing equipment of the battery. The battery comprises at least one battery monomer, a first thermal management component and a second thermal management component, which are used for containing fluid to regulate the temperature of the at least one battery monomer, a first pipe joint connected to one end of the first thermal management component, a second pipe joint connected to one end of the second thermal management component, and a flexible pipe comprising a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the other end of the first pipe joint, and the second end being connected to the other end of the second pipe joint, so that the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are communicated. Compared with the prior art, the application simplifies the connecting structure, realizes the connection of the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component through a simple structure, and is compact in overall structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and more specifically, to a battery, an electrical device, and a method and apparatus for manufacturing the battery. Background Technology

[0002] In the pursuit of energy conservation and emission reduction, batteries are widely used in electrical devices such as mobile phones, computers, and electric vehicles to provide power. With technological advancements, there is a growing demand for simpler and more compact battery structures. Batteries include thermal management components, whose connection structures are relatively complex, making them inconvenient to connect and space-consuming in the limited space of a battery. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application aims to provide a battery, an electrical device, and a method and apparatus for manufacturing the battery, so as to simplify the structure of the battery.

[0004] The embodiments of this application are implemented as follows:

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a battery, comprising: at least one battery cell; a first thermal management component and a second thermal management component, both configured to contain fluid to regulate the temperature of the at least one battery cell; a first connector, one end of which is connected to the first thermal management component; a second connector, one end of which is connected to the second thermal management component; and a flexible tube, including a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the other end of the first connector and the second end being connected to the other end of the second connector, thereby enabling communication between the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component.

[0006] In the technical solution of this application, the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are connected through a first pipe joint, a flexible pipe and a second pipe joint. Compared with the prior art, this reduces the number of connecting joints, and the connection structure is simple and compact, easy to install and disassemble for maintenance. It enables the arrangement and connection of the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component within a relatively narrow battery, and makes the battery structure simpler and more compact.

[0007] In one embodiment of this application, the first end is sleeved on the first pipe joint and is interference-fitted with the first pipe joint.

[0008] In the above technical solution, by making the first end of the flexible tube and the first pipe joint an interference fit, it is easy to assemble the first pipe joint and the first end into place, thereby improving the connection stability.

[0009] In one embodiment of this application, the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint is provided with an annular protrusion extending circumferentially along the first pipe joint, and the annular protrusion abuts against the inner wall of the flexible pipe.

[0010] In the above technical solution, the first end not only covers the surface of the first pipe joint to achieve an interference fit with the first pipe joint, but also the first end deforms significantly at the annular protrusion to form an annular sealing line, thereby improving the connection strength and sealing effect.

[0011] In one embodiment of this application, the outer diameter of the annular protrusion gradually decreases along the direction from the first thermal management component to the second thermal management component.

[0012] In the above technical solution, the outer peripheral surface of the annular protrusion forms a conical surface to guide the first end of the flexible tube to be sleeved on the first pipe joint, which is easy to connect and not easy to separate, convenient to install, and not easy to fall off accidentally.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint is provided with a plurality of annular protrusions, and the plurality of annular protrusions are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first pipe joint.

[0014] In the above technical solution, by setting multiple annular protrusions, multiple annular sealing lines are formed between the flexible tube and the first pipe joint, thereby further improving the sealing effect.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, the battery further includes: a first sealing ring, sleeved on the first pipe joint, to seal the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint and the inner wall of the flexible tube.

[0016] In the above technical solution, the inner wall of the flexible tube and the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint cooperate to compress the first sealing ring, and the first sealing ring is used to seal the gap between the inner wall of the flexible tube and the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint, thereby further improving the sealing effect.

[0017] In one embodiment of this application, the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint is further provided with a stop portion, and the first sealing ring is located between the annular protrusion and the stop portion to restrict the first sealing ring from moving axially along the first pipe joint.

[0018] In the above technical solution, by setting a stop part, the first sealing ring is prevented from shifting or deforming along the axial direction of the first pipe joint, thus ensuring the sealing performance between the first pipe joint and the flexible pipe.

[0019] In one embodiment of this application, the plurality of annular protrusions include a first annular protrusion and a second annular protrusion, wherein the distance between the first annular protrusion and the first thermal management component is greater than the distance between the second annular protrusion and the first thermal management component; the stop portion is located between the first annular protrusion and the second annular protrusion.

[0020] In the above technical solution, by limiting the first sealing ring between the first annular protrusion and the stop portion, and with the stop portion located at a position where the first pipe joint is relatively far away from the first thermal management component in the axial direction, the sealing performance is prevented from being reduced due to the first end of the flexible pipe not being properly fitted.

[0021] In one embodiment of this application, the first thermal management component includes a first wall, the first wall having a first through hole, and the first pipe joint being welded to the first wall and communicating with the first through hole.

[0022] Compared to the existing technology of setting a male connector on the first thermal management component and then connecting the pipe through a female connector, in the above technical solution, by setting a first through hole on the first wall, the first pipe connector connected to the flexible pipe is inserted and fixed in the first through hole, which simplifies the structure of the first thermal management component, so as to connect the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component inside the relatively narrow battery.

[0023] In one embodiment of this application, the second thermal management component includes a second wall, the second wall having a second through hole, and the second pipe connector being detachably connected to the second wall and communicating with the second through hole.

[0024] Compared to the existing technology of setting a male connector on the second thermal management component and then connecting the pipe through a female connector, in the above technical solution, by setting a second through hole on the second wall, and by inserting and fixing the second pipe connector connected to the flexible pipe into the second through hole, the structure of the second thermal management component is simplified, so as to facilitate the connection of the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component inside the relatively narrow battery.

[0025] In one embodiment of this application, one end of the second pipe connector is provided with a buckle, which engages with the inner surface of the second wall to prevent the second pipe connector from detaching from the second wall.

[0026] In the above technical solution, by setting a buckle, the second pipe joint is restricted from detaching from the second wall, ensuring the stable connection between the second thermal management component and the second pipe joint, thereby ensuring that the flexible pipe is in a stable state, and making the connection between the flexible pipe and the first pipe joint stable.

[0027] In one embodiment of this application, the second pipe connector includes a body and a plurality of connecting arms. The body abuts against the outer surface of the second wall. The body has a third through hole communicating with the second through hole. The plurality of connecting arms are located inside the second through hole and are spaced apart circumferentially along the second through hole. One end of each connecting arm is connected to the body, and the other end of each connecting arm is respectively provided with the buckle.

[0028] In the above technical solution, the second pipe connector is configured as a body and multiple connecting arms. These connecting arms can be inserted into the second through hole to connect the body and the second wall, and to connect the second and third through holes. Furthermore, the multiple connecting arms are inserted inside the second through hole, so that the latches on the connecting arms engage with the inner surface of the second wall, acting as a limit to prevent the connecting arms from dislodging from the second through hole, thus ensuring the connection stability of the second pipe connector and the second thermal management component. On the other hand, the multiple connecting arms can also converge towards the center to facilitate insertion into or removal from the second through hole, thus facilitating the installation and disassembly of the second pipe connector.

[0029] In one embodiment of this application, the second wall is further provided with a limiting groove, the limiting groove being recessed from the wall of the second through hole toward a direction away from the center line of the second through hole, and the connecting arm is further provided with a limiting protrusion, the limiting protrusion being embedded in the limiting groove to restrict the second pipe joint from rotating circumferentially along the second pipe joint.

[0030] In the above technical solution, by setting the limiting protrusion and the limiting groove, the second pipe joint is prevented from rotating in its own circumference in the second through hole, thus avoiding loosening of the connection between the flexible pipe and the second pipe joint, as well as preventing the flexible pipe from being twisted and causing poor flow, and preventing the connection between the flexible pipe and the first pipe joint from being twisted, thereby improving the connection stability of the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component.

[0031] In one embodiment of this application, the limiting protrusion includes a stop surface and a guide slope. The stop surface is configured to cooperate with the limiting groove to restrict the second pipe joint from rotating in a first direction. The guide slope is configured to allow the second pipe joint to rotate in the second direction, so that the connecting arm is squeezed by the wall of the second through hole to deform, thereby disengaging the buckle from the second wall. The first direction and the second direction are circumferential directions of the second pipe joint and are opposite in direction.

[0032] In the above technical solution, by setting a stop surface and a guide slope on the limiting protrusion, on the one hand, the second pipe joint will not rotate arbitrarily; on the other hand, when a certain amount of external force is applied to the second pipe joint and the second pipe joint is rotated in the second direction, the connecting arm can be squeezed to converge in the center by squeezing the guide slope, so that the buckle on the connecting arm and the second wall are disengaged, thereby making it easy to pull out the second pipe joint along its own axis and facilitating the disassembly of the second pipe joint.

[0033] In one embodiment of this application, the second pipe connector further includes a sleeve portion extending from the body in a direction away from the second wall, and the second end portion is inserted into the sleeve portion.

[0034] In the above technical solution, by providing a sleeve portion on the second surface, it is convenient to connect the flexible tube. At the same time, the sleeve portion is located outside the flexible tube, rather than inside the flexible tube, which plays a role in protecting the second end so as to prevent damage to the connection part of the flexible tube and the second pipe joint.

[0035] In one embodiment of this application, the sleeve portion is coaxially arranged with the third through hole, the inner diameter of the sleeve portion is larger than the diameter of the third through hole, and the end face of the second end abuts against the side of the body that is away from the second wall.

[0036] In the above technical solution, the above settings improve the positioning accuracy of the flexible tube on the one hand, and ensure that the end face of the second end does not obstruct the flow of the heat exchange medium, so as to avoid reducing the flow rate of the heat exchange medium and improve the heat exchange efficiency.

[0037] In one embodiment of this application, the sleeve portion is welded to the second end portion.

[0038] In the above technical solution, by welding the sleeve part and the second end, not only can the connection stability of the second pipe joint and the second end be improved, but the gap between the inner circumferential surface of the sleeve part and the outer circumferential surface of the second end can also be sealed, thereby improving the connection sealing performance of the second pipe joint and the second end.

[0039] In one embodiment of this application, the battery further includes a second sealing ring, which is located between the body and the second wall, and is used to seal the gap between the body and the second wall.

[0040] In the above technical solution, the sealing performance of the second pipe joint and the second thermal management component is improved by setting a second sealing ring to seal the gap between the body and the second wall.

[0041] In one embodiment of this application, the body has a first surface facing the second wall, and an annular groove is provided on the first surface. The second sealing ring is disposed in the annular groove. The inner circumferential surface and / or outer circumferential surface of the second sealing ring are provided with a plurality of protrusions, which are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the second sealing ring so that the second sealing ring is interference-fitted with the annular groove.

[0042] In the above technical solution, by setting multiple protrusions to make the second sealing ring and the annular groove interference fit, on the one hand, the position of the second sealing ring is fixed and it is not easy to misalign; on the other hand, the second sealing ring can be assembled on the body first and then abut against the second wall, which facilitates assembly; furthermore, the second sealing ring can be deformed by the compression of the second wall, so as to facilitate the assembly of the second pipe joint and the second thermal management component and achieve sealing.

[0043] In one embodiment of this application, the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the at least one battery cell.

[0044] In the above technical solution, by arranging the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component opposite to each other on both sides of the battery cell, the heat exchange area of ​​the battery cell is effectively increased.

[0045] In one embodiment of this application, the battery cell includes a first side and a second side disposed opposite to each other. The first side and the second side are the two surfaces of the battery cell with the largest area. The first side contacts the first thermal management component, and the second side contacts the second thermal management component.

[0046] In the above technical solution, by attaching the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component to the large surface of the battery cell, the temperature regulation of each part of the battery cell tends to be the same, so as to ensure the internal temperature of the battery cell is balanced, thereby improving the thermal performance of the battery cell.

[0047] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an electrical device, which includes the aforementioned battery.

[0048] In the above technical solution, the battery of the electrical device dissipates heat well during operation, with a small temperature rise, stable battery performance, and stable performance of the electrical device.

[0049] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a method for manufacturing a battery, comprising:

[0050] Provide at least one battery cell;

[0051] A first thermal management component and a second thermal management component are provided, both of which are used to contain fluid to regulate the temperature of the at least one battery cell;

[0052] Provide the first pipe fitting;

[0053] Provide a second pipe fitting;

[0054] A flexible tube is provided, the flexible tube including a first end and a second end;

[0055] The first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the battery cell. One end of the first pipe connector is connected to the first thermal management component, one end of the second pipe connector is connected to the second end, the first end is connected to the other end of the first pipe connector, and the other end of the second pipe connector is connected to the second thermal management component, so that the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are in communication.

[0056] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a battery manufacturing apparatus, comprising:

[0057] A first supplying device is used to supply at least one battery cell;

[0058] A second providing device is used to provide a first thermal management component and a second thermal management component, both of which are used to contain fluid to regulate the temperature of the at least one battery cell;

[0059] A third supplying device is used to supply the first pipe fitting;

[0060] The fourth providing device is used to provide the second pipe fitting;

[0061] A fifth providing device is used to provide a flexible tube, the flexible tube including a first end and a second end;

[0062] An assembly device is used to arrange the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component opposite to each other on both sides of the battery cell, connect one end of the first pipe connector to the first thermal management component, connect one end of the second pipe connector to the second end, connect the first end to the other end of the first pipe connector, and connect the other end of the second pipe connector to the second thermal management component, so that the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are in communication. Attached Figure Description

[0063] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0064] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 2 An exploded view of a battery provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 3 A partial schematic diagram of a battery provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0067] Figure 4 This is a partial exploded view of a battery provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the connection structure of the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 6 An exploded view of the connection structure of the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a first thermal management component and a second thermal management component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0071] Figure 8 A perspective view of a first pipe connector provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the first surface of a second pipe connector provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0073] Figure 10 A side view of a second pipe connector provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0074] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the second wall of a second thermal management component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a second pipe connector connected to a second wall according to an embodiment of this application;

[0076] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the sleeve portion of a second pipe connector provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0077] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the connection state between the second pipe connector and the flexible pipe according to an embodiment of this application;

[0078] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of a second sealing ring provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0079] Figure 16 A schematic flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery according to an embodiment of this application;

[0080] Figure 17 This is a schematic block diagram of a battery manufacturing apparatus provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0081] Icons: 1000 - Vehicle; 100 - Battery; 1 - Housing; 11 - First Housing Section; 12 - Second Housing Section; 2 - Battery Cell; 3 - Thermal Management Component; 31 - First Thermal Management Component; 311 - First Wall; 312 - First Through Hole; 32 - Second Thermal Management Component; 321 - Second Wall; 322 - Second Through Hole; 323 - Limiting Groove; 4 - First Pipe Connector; 41 - Annular Protrusion; 41a - First Annular Protrusion; 41b - Second Annular Protrusion; 42 - Stop; 5 - Second Pipe Connector; 51 - Body; 511 - Third Through Hole; 512 - ... Surface; 513-Annular groove; 52-Connecting arm; 53-Snap fastener; 54-Limiting protrusion; 541-Stop surface; 542-Guide slope; 55-Sleeve portion; 6-Flexible tube; 61-First end; 62-Second end; 7-First sealing ring; 8-Second sealing ring; 81-Protrusion; 82-Protruding ring; 200-Motor; 300-Controller; 400-Manufacturing equipment; 410-First supply device; 420-Second supply device; 430-Third supply device; 440-Fourth supply device; 450-Fifth supply device; 460-Assembly device. Detailed Implementation

[0082] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0083] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0084] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0085] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0086] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three possibilities: A exists, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0087] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0088] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module comprising one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. A battery generally includes a casing for encapsulating one or more battery cells. The casing prevents liquids or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells.

[0089] The battery cells mentioned in the embodiments of this application include lithium-ion secondary battery cells, lithium-ion primary battery cells, lithium-sulfur battery cells, sodium-lithium-ion battery cells, sodium-ion battery cells, or magnesium-ion battery cells, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0090] A single battery cell includes an electrode assembly and an electrolyte. The electrode assembly includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. The battery cell primarily functions by the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrodes. The positive electrode includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer, the latter coated on the surface of the current collector. The current collector includes a current-collecting portion and a tab protruding from it. The current-collecting portion is coated with the positive active material layer, while at least a portion of the tab is not coated with the active material layer. Taking a lithium-ion battery as an example, the positive current collector can be made of aluminum, and the positive active material layer includes the active material, which can be lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, or lithium manganese oxide, etc. The negative electrode includes a negative current collector and a negative active material layer, the negative active material layer being coated on the surface of the negative current collector. The negative current collector includes a negative current collection portion and a negative electrode tab protruding from the negative current collection portion. The negative current collection portion is coated with the negative active material layer, while at least a portion of the negative electrode tab is not coated with the negative active material layer. The material of the negative current collector can be copper, and the negative active material layer includes a negative active material, which can be carbon or silicon, etc. The material of the separator can be PP (polypropylene) or PE (polyethylene), etc.

[0091] The development of battery technology must consider multiple design factors simultaneously, such as energy density, cycle life, discharge capacity, and charge / discharge rate. Suitable ambient temperature is one of the keys to ensuring good battery performance. When the temperature of a battery cell is too low, the movement speed of metal ions within the cell is slow, and their ability to intercalate into the electrodes is also low, resulting in lower charge / discharge capacity. However, when the temperature of a battery cell is too high, it can easily lead to thermal runaway, causing safety hazards such as bulging and explosion.

[0092] Therefore, batteries generally also include thermal management components. These components contain fluid to regulate the temperature of multiple battery cells, ensuring the battery operates within a suitable temperature range and maintaining good performance (such as charge / discharge capacity). The fluid can be a liquid or a gas, and temperature regulation refers to heating or cooling the multiple battery cells; the fluid can be referred to as a heat exchange medium. When cooling or lowering the temperature of the battery cells, the thermal management component contains cooling fluid to reduce the temperature of the multiple battery cells. In this case, the thermal management component can also be called a cooling component, cooling system, or cooling plate, and the fluid it contains can be called a cooling medium or cooling fluid, more specifically, a coolant or cooling gas. Alternatively, the thermal management component can also be used to heat the multiple battery cells, but this application does not limit this. Optionally, the fluid can be circulating to achieve better temperature regulation. Optionally, the fluid can be water, a mixture of water and ethylene glycol, or air, etc.

[0093] In related technologies, each thermal management component in the battery is equipped with a male connector, and two adjacent thermal management components need to be connected through a pipe with female connectors at both ends. The connection structure is complex, inconvenient to connect in the small space of the battery, and occupies a lot of space.

[0094] In view of this, in order to simplify the connection structure of the thermal management components and improve the compactness of the overall battery structure, this application provides a battery including a first thermal management component, a second thermal management component, a first pipe connector, a second pipe connector, and a flexible tube. One end of the first pipe connector is connected to the first thermal management component, and one end of the second pipe connector is connected to the second thermal management component. The flexible tube includes a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to the other end of the first pipe connector, and the second end is connected to the other end of the second pipe connector. That is, after the first thermal management component, the battery cell, and the second thermal management component are arranged in sequence, the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are connected through the first pipe connector, the second pipe connector, and the flexible tube. Compared with the prior art, the number of connection joints is reduced, the connection structure is simple and compact, and it is easy to install, disassemble, and maintain. It solves the problem of inconvenience in connecting the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component in narrow spaces, realizes the arrangement and connection of the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component inside a relatively narrow battery, and makes the battery structure simpler and more compact.

[0095] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to various batteries, such as lithium-ion secondary batteries, lithium-ion primary batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, or magnesium-ion batteries, etc. The battery cells used to compose the batteries can be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes.

[0096] The battery described in this application is applicable to various battery-powered electrical devices, such as ships, vehicles, and drones. The vehicle is a new energy vehicle, which can be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid electric vehicle, or a range-extended electric vehicle. The vehicle's main body is equipped with a drive motor, which serves as a power source and is electrically connected to the battery. The battery provides electrical energy, and the drive motor is connected to the wheels on the vehicle's main body through a transmission mechanism, thereby driving the vehicle. Alternatively, the battery can also be used in an energy storage cabinet to provide electrical energy.

[0097] It should be understood that the technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are not limited to the devices described above, but can also be applied to all devices that use batteries. However, for the sake of brevity, the following embodiments are all illustrated using electric vehicles as examples.

[0098] For example, Figure 1This illustration shows a structural schematic diagram of an electrical device according to an embodiment of this application. The electrical device is a vehicle 1000, which can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. A battery 100 is installed inside the vehicle 1000. For example, the battery 100 can be installed at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle 1000. The battery 100 can be used to power the vehicle 1000. For example, the battery 100 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000's electrical system, such as meeting the power requirements for starting, navigation, and operation of the vehicle 1000. In another embodiment of this application, the battery 100 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000 but also as the driving power source, replacing or partially replacing gasoline or natural gas to provide driving force for the vehicle 1000.

[0099] The vehicle 1000 may also be equipped with a controller 300 and a motor 200. The controller 300 is used to control the power supply of the battery 100 to the motor 200, for example, to meet the power needs of the vehicle 1000 during startup, navigation and driving.

[0100] To meet different power demands, the battery 100 may include multiple battery cells 2, which may be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed configuration. In some embodiments, multiple battery cells 2 may first be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed configuration to form a battery module, and then multiple battery modules may be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed configuration to form a group.

[0101] like Figure 2 As shown, the battery 100 includes multiple battery cells 2 and a housing 1. The housing 1 forms a space for accommodating the multiple battery cells 2, so that the multiple battery cells 2 are arranged in the space of the housing 1. The type of housing 1 is not limited, and can be a frame-shaped housing 1, a disc-shaped housing 1, or a box-shaped housing 1, etc.

[0102] Specifically, the housing 1 may include two accommodating parts, referred to here as the first housing part 11 and the second housing part 12, which are fastened together. The shapes of the first housing part 11 and the second housing part 12 can be determined according to the shape of the combination of multiple battery cells 2. Both the first housing part 11 and the second housing part 12 may have an opening. For example, both the first housing part 11 and the second housing part 12 may be hollow cuboids with only one side as an opening. The openings of the first housing part 11 and the second housing part 12 are arranged opposite to each other, and the first housing part 11 and the second housing part 12 are fastened together to form a housing 1 with a closed cavity. Alternatively, one of the first housing part 11 and the second housing part 12 may be a cuboid with an opening, and the other may be a cover structure to close the opening of the cuboid. Multiple battery cells 2 are connected in parallel, series, or mixed configurations and placed inside the housing 1 formed by the fastening of the first housing part 11 and the second housing part 12.

[0103] Multiple battery cells 2 are connected in parallel, series, or mixed and placed inside the housing 1. The battery 100 also includes a busbar (not shown in the figure), which is used to realize the electrical connection between the multiple battery cells 2, such as in parallel, series, or mixed connections.

[0104] In this embodiment, a square battery cell 2 is used as an example, such as Figure 2 As shown, multiple battery cells 2 are stacked sequentially along their thickness direction and connected in parallel, series, or mixed configurations via a busbar component before being placed inside the housing 1 assembly. Each battery cell 2 has a thermal management component 3 on both sides along its thickness direction. Each thermal management component 3 has a first pipe connector 4 on one side and a second pipe connector 5 on the other side. Adjacent thermal management components 3 are connected by a flexible pipe 6. The thermal management components 3 at the beginning and end of the arrangement direction are connected to a power unit outside the battery 100 to facilitate the flow of the heat exchange medium.

[0105] Multiple battery cells 2 in battery 100 refers to one or more battery cells 2, and multiple thermal management components 3 refers to two or more thermal management components 3.

[0106] Taking battery 100 having one battery cell 2 as an example, as follows: Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the battery 100 includes at least one battery cell 2, a first thermal management component, a second thermal management component 32, a first connector 4, a second connector 5, and a flexible tube 6. The first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 are both used to contain fluid to regulate the temperature of the battery cell 2. One end of the first connector 4 is connected to the first thermal management component 31; one end of the second connector 5 is connected to the second thermal management component 32; the flexible tube 6 includes a first end 61 and a second end 62. The first end 61 is connected to the other end of the first connector 4, and the second end 62 is connected to the other end of the second connector 5, so that the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 are connected.

[0107] The flexible tube 6 is made of a material with a certain degree of toughness, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, rubber, or PVC steel wire pipe (a pipe made of polyvinyl chloride with steel wires sandwiched in it), so that the flexible tube 6 can be supported between the first pipe joint 4 and the second pipe joint 5 and is not easy to fall off.

[0108] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution of this application reduces the connection structure, the connection structure is simple and compact, and it is easy to install, disassemble and maintain. The simple structure enables the connection of the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 in a narrow space, and the overall structure of the battery 100 is compact.

[0109] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first end 61 is sleeved on the first pipe joint 4 and is interference-fitted with the first pipe joint.

[0110] The flexible tube is made of a material with a certain degree of toughness. The size of the first pipe joint 4 is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the first end 61 to achieve an interference fit.

[0111] By making the first end 61 of the flexible tube 6 and the first pipe joint 4 an interference fit, it is easy to assemble the first pipe joint and the first end into place, thereby improving the connection stability.

[0112] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint 4 is provided with an annular protrusion 41 extending circumferentially along the first pipe joint 4, and the annular protrusion 41 abuts against the inner wall of the flexible pipe 6.

[0113] The outer diameter of the first pipe joint is larger at the part with the annular protrusion 41, and the outer diameter of the first pipe joint 4 is smaller at the part without the annular protrusion 41.

[0114] The first end 61 not only covers the surface of the first pipe joint 4 to achieve an interference fit with the first pipe joint 4, but also the first end 61 deforms significantly at the annular protrusion 41 to form an annular sealing line, thereby improving the connection strength and sealing effect.

[0115] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, along the direction from the first thermal management component 31 to the second thermal management component 32, the outer diameter of the annular protrusion 41 gradually decreases.

[0116] The outer diameter of the annular protrusion gradually decreases, and the outer peripheral surface of the annular protrusion 41 is a conical surface, with the smaller end of the cone pointing towards the second thermal management component 32.

[0117] The outer peripheral surface of the annular protrusion 41 forms a conical surface to guide the first end 61 of the flexible tube 6 to be sleeved on the first pipe joint 4, which is easy to connect and not easy to separate, convenient to install, and not easy to fall off accidentally.

[0118] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the outer circumferential surface of the first pipe joint is provided with a plurality of annular protrusions 41, which are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first pipe joint 4.

[0119] The axial direction of the first pipe joint 4 refers to the direction of the axis of the first pipe joint 4, that is, the direction perpendicular to the surface of the first thermal management component 31.

[0120] By setting multiple annular protrusions 41, multiple annular sealing lines are formed between the flexible tube 6 and the first pipe joint 4, further improving the sealing effect.

[0121] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, the thermal management device also includes a first sealing ring 7, which is sleeved on the first pipe joint 4 to seal the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint 4 and the inner wall of the flexible pipe 6.

[0122] The first sealing ring 7 is a component used to further seal the gap between the inner wall of the flexible tube 6 and the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint 4. The first sealing ring 7 is made of an elastic material, such as rubber.

[0123] The inner wall of the flexible tube 6 and the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint 4 are pressed together to compress the first sealing ring 7, thereby sealing the gap between the inner wall of the flexible tube 6 and the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint 4 and further improving the sealing effect.

[0124] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint 4 is also provided with a stop portion 42, and the first sealing ring 7 is located between the annular protrusion 41 and the stop portion 42 to restrict the first sealing ring 7 from moving axially along the first pipe joint 4.

[0125] The stop portion 42 is a protrusion provided along the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint 4, and the outer peripheral surface of the stop portion 42 is not a conical surface. Optionally, the stop portion 42 is an annular protrusion 41, or the stop portion 42 is a dot-shaped protrusion arranged circumferentially along the first pipe joint 4.

[0126] By setting the stop part 42, the first sealing ring 7 is prevented from shifting or deforming along the axial direction of the first pipe joint 4, thus ensuring the sealing between the first pipe joint 4 and the flexible pipe 6.

[0127] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the plurality of annular protrusions 41 include a first annular protrusion 41a and a second annular protrusion 41b. The distance between the first annular protrusion 41a and the first thermal management component 31 is greater than the distance between the second annular protrusion 41b and the first thermal management component 31. The stop portion 42 is located between the first annular protrusion 41a and the second annular protrusion 41b.

[0128] The first annular protrusion 41a is one of the multiple annular protrusions 41 that is relatively far away from the first thermal management component 31. That is, the first annular protrusion 41a is closer to the end of the first pipe joint 4 that is far away from the first thermal management component 31 than the other annular protrusions 41.

[0129] By confining the first sealing ring between the first annular protrusion 41a and the stop portion 42, and with the stop portion 42 located axially away from the first thermal management component 31, the sealing performance is prevented from being reduced due to the first end 61 of the flexible tube 6 not being properly fitted.

[0130] According to some embodiments of this application, in conjunction with Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, the first thermal management component 31 includes a first wall 311, the first wall 311 is provided with a first through hole 312, and the first pipe joint 4 is welded to the first wall 311 and communicates with the first through hole 312.

[0131] The first thermal management component 31 includes a housing with an internal space, a first wall 311 being part of the housing, and a first through hole 312 communicating with the internal space of the first thermal management component 31.

[0132] Compared to the prior art of setting a male connector on the first thermal management component 31 and then connecting the pipe through a female connector, the present application embodiment simplifies the structure of the first thermal management component 31 by setting a first through hole 312 on the first wall 311 and inserting and fixing the first pipe connector 4 connected to the flexible pipe 6 into the first through hole 312, so as to connect the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 inside the relatively narrow battery 100.

[0133] According to some embodiments of this application, in conjunction with Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, the second thermal management component 32 includes a second wall 321, the second wall 321 is provided with a second through hole 322, and the second pipe connector 5 is detachably connected to the second wall 321 and communicates with the second through hole 322.

[0134] The second thermal management component includes a housing with an internal space, a second wall 321 being part of the housing, and a second through hole 322 communicating with the internal space of the second thermal management component 32. Optionally, the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 have the same structure, that is, the first thermal management component 31 has a first wall 311 and a second wall 321 disposed opposite to each other, and the second thermal management component 32 also has a first wall 311 and a second wall 321 disposed opposite to each other, with the first wall 311 of the first thermal management component 31 facing the second thermal management component 32, and the second wall 321 of the second thermal management component 32 facing the first thermal management component 31.

[0135] Compared to the prior art of setting a male connector on the second thermal management component 32 and then connecting the pipe through a female connector, the present application embodiment simplifies the structure of the second thermal management component 32 by setting a second through hole 322 on the second wall 321 and inserting and fixing the second pipe connector 5 connected to the flexible pipe 6 into the second through hole 322, so as to connect the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 inside the relatively narrow battery 100.

[0136] According to some embodiments of this application, in conjunction with Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, one end of the second pipe connector 5 is provided with a buckle 53, which is engaged with the inner surface of the second wall 321 to prevent the second pipe connector 5 from detaching from the second wall 321.

[0137] The snap 53 is formed at one end of the second pipe joint 5 and is a protrusion structure that protrudes radially from the circumferential surface of the second pipe joint 5.

[0138] By setting the buckle 53, the second pipe joint 5 is restricted from disengaging from the second wall 321, ensuring a stable connection between the second thermal management component 32 and the second pipe joint 5, thereby ensuring that the flexible pipe 6 is in a stable state, and making the connection between the flexible pipe 6 and the first pipe joint 4 stable.

[0139] According to some embodiments of this application, in conjunction with Figure 7 and Figure 9As shown, the second pipe connector 5 includes a body 51 and a plurality of connecting arms 52. The body 51 abuts against the outer surface of the second wall 321. The body 51 has a third through hole 511 communicating with the second through hole 322. The plurality of connecting arms 52 are located in the second through hole 322 and are spaced apart circumferentially along the second through hole 322. One end of each connecting arm 52 is connected to the body 51, and the other end of each connecting arm 52 is provided with a buckle 53.

[0140] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the body 51 is a disc-shaped structure, and the third through hole 511 penetrates the disc-shaped structure. Multiple connecting arms 52 are arranged on one side of the body 51 and surround the third through hole 511. One end of each connecting arm 52 is a fixed end and the other end is a free end. The fixed end is connected to the body 51, and the free end extends along the axial direction of the second pipe joint 5. The buckle 53 is a protrusion formed on the connecting arm 52.

[0141] By configuring the second pipe connector 5 as a body 51 and multiple connecting arms 52, the multiple connecting arms 52 can be inserted into the second through hole 322 to realize the connection between the body 51 and the second wall 321, and make the second through hole 322 and the third through hole 511 communicate. The multiple connecting arms 52 are all inserted into the inside of the second through hole 322, so that the buckle 53 on the connecting arm 52 cooperates with the inner surface of the second wall 321 to play a limiting role, so as to prevent the connecting arm 52 from coming out of the second through hole 322 and ensure the connection stability of the second pipe connector 5 and the second thermal management component 32.

[0142] On the other hand, the multiple connecting arms 52 can also converge towards the center to facilitate insertion into or removal from the second through hole 322, thereby facilitating the installation and disassembly of the second pipe connector 5.

[0143] Optionally, multiple connecting arms 52 elastically abut against the inner wall of the second through hole 322, increasing the friction between the surfaces of the multiple connecting arms 52 and the inner wall of the second through hole 322, making it less likely for the second pipe connector 5 to move within the second through hole 322, thus further positioning the second pipe connector 5. On the other hand, the elastic abutment of the multiple connecting arms against the inner wall of the second through hole 322 also ensures that the buckle 53 engages with the inner surface of the second wall 321.

[0144] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 11 As shown, the second wall 321 is also provided with a limiting groove 323, which is recessed from the wall of the second through hole 322 in a direction away from the center line of the second through hole 322, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the connecting arm 52 is also provided with a limiting protrusion 54, which is embedded in the limiting groove 323 to restrict the circumferential rotation of the second pipe joint 5.

[0145] like Figure 11 As shown, "the limiting groove is recessed from the wall of the second through hole 322 in a direction away from the center line of the second through hole 322" means that the limiting groove 323 is recessed from the wall of the second through hole 322 along the radial direction of the second through hole 322.

[0146] The limiting protrusion 54 refers to the protrusion structure formed on the surface of the connecting arm 52 for engaging with the limiting groove 323.

[0147] By setting the limiting protrusion and limiting groove 323, the second pipe joint 5 is prevented from rotating in its own circumference within the second through hole 322, thus avoiding loosening of the connection between the flexible pipe 6 and the second pipe joint 5, preventing the flexible pipe 6 from being twisted and causing poor flow, and preventing the flexible pipe 6 from being twisted and causing loosening of the connection between the flexible pipe 6 and the first pipe joint 4, thereby improving the connection stability of the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32.

[0148] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 12 As shown, the limiting protrusion 54 includes a stop surface 541 and a guide slope 542. The stop surface 541 is configured to cooperate with the limiting groove 323 to restrict the second pipe joint 5 from rotating in a first direction. The guide slope 542 is configured to allow the second pipe joint 5 to rotate in a second direction, so that the connecting arm 52 is squeezed by the wall of the second through hole 322 to generate deformation, causing the buckle 53 to disengage from the second wall 321. The first direction and the second direction are directions along the circumference of the second pipe joint 5 and are opposite in direction.

[0149] Both the first direction and the second direction are along the circumference of the second pipe joint 5. One of the first direction and the second direction is the clockwise direction of the second pipe joint 5, and the other of the first direction and the second direction is the counterclockwise direction of the second pipe joint 5. The stop surface 541 and the guide slope 542 are two opposing surfaces of the limiting protrusion 54. The stop surface 541 faces the first direction, and the guide slope 542 faces the second direction.

[0150] By providing a stop surface 541 and a guide slope 542 on the limiting protrusion 54, the second pipe joint 5 will not rotate arbitrarily. On the other hand, when a certain amount of external force is applied to the second pipe joint 5 and the second pipe joint 5 rotates in the second direction, the guide slope 542 of each connecting arm 52 can be squeezed to make the multiple connecting arms 52 converge towards the center, thereby causing the buckle 53 and the second wall 321 on the connecting arm 52 to disengage, thus making it easier to pull out the second pipe joint 5 along its own axis and facilitating the disassembly of the second pipe joint 5.

[0151] According to some embodiments of this application, in conjunction with Figure 7 and Figure 13As shown, the second thermal management component 32 also includes a sleeve portion 55, which extends from the body 51 in a direction away from the second wall 321, and the second end portion 62 is inserted into the sleeve portion 55.

[0152] As shown in the figure, one end of the sleeve portion is connected to the side of the body 51 away from the second wall 321, and the other end of the sleeve portion 55 extends toward the flexible tube 6 and is sleeved on the second end 62 of the flexible tube 6.

[0153] By providing a sleeve portion 55 on the second surface, it is convenient to connect the flexible tube 6. At the same time, the sleeve portion 55 is located outside the flexible tube 6, rather than inside the flexible tube 6, which serves to protect the second end 62 and prevent damage to the connection between the flexible tube 6 and the second pipe connector 5.

[0154] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 14 As shown, the sleeve portion 55 is coaxially arranged with the third through hole 511, the inner diameter of the sleeve portion 55 is larger than the diameter of the third through hole 511, and the end face of the second end portion 62 abuts against the side of the body 51 that is away from the second wall 321.

[0155] "The sleeve portion 55 is coaxially arranged with the third through hole" means that the axis of the sleeve portion 55 coincides with the axis of the third through hole 511. The inner diameter of the sleeve portion 55 is larger than the inner diameter of the third through hole 511. The inner wall of the sleeve portion 55 and the hole wall of the third through hole 511 define an annular surface on the side of the body 51 facing away from the second wall 321. This annular surface is used to position the second end 62 of the flexible tube 6.

[0156] With the above settings, the positioning accuracy of the flexible tube 6 is improved on the one hand, and the end face of the second end 62 will not obstruct the flow of the heat exchange medium, so as to avoid reducing the flow rate of the heat exchange medium and improve the heat exchange efficiency.

[0157] Optionally, the second pipe joint 5 and the sleeve portion 55 are bonded together with an adhesive to improve the connection stability of the second pipe joint 5 and the second end portion 62.

[0158] According to some embodiments of this application, the sleeve portion 55 is welded to the second end portion 62.

[0159] The welding method is hot melt welding or laser welding, so that the inner circumferential surface of the sleeve portion 55 and the outer circumferential surface of the second end portion 62 are hot melted and formed into one piece.

[0160] By welding the sleeve portion 55 and the second end, not only can the connection stability of the second pipe joint 5 and the second end 62 be improved, but the gap between the inner circumferential surface of the sleeve portion 55 and the outer circumferential surface of the second end 62 can also be eliminated, thereby improving the connection sealing performance of the second pipe joint 5 and the second end 62.

[0161] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the battery 100 also includes a second sealing ring 8, which is located between the body 51 and the second wall 321. The second sealing ring 8 is used to seal the gap between the body 51 and the second wall 321.

[0162] The second sealing ring 8 is made of an elastic material, such as rubber. The body 51 and the second wall 321 cooperate to compress the second sealing ring 8 so that the second sealing ring 8 forms an annular sealing area between the body 51 and the second wall 321.

[0163] By setting a second sealing ring 8 to seal the gap between the body 51 and the second wall 321, the sealing performance of the second pipe joint 5 and the second thermal management component 32 is improved.

[0164] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the body 51 has a first surface 512 facing the second wall 321, and an annular groove 513 is provided on the first surface 512. The second sealing ring 8 is disposed in the annular groove 513. The inner and / or outer circumferential surfaces of the second sealing ring 8 are provided with a plurality of protrusions 81, and the plurality of protrusions 81 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the second sealing ring 8 so that the second sealing ring 8 and the annular groove 513 are interference fit.

[0165] The annular groove 513 is recessed along the axial direction of the second pipe joint 5 from the first surface. The second sealing ring 8 is disposed in the annular groove 513, and the inner and outer sidewalls of the annular groove 513 cooperate to clamp the second sealing ring 8 to prevent the second sealing ring 8 from falling out of the annular groove 513.

[0166] Multiple protrusions 81 on the inner circumferential surface of the second sealing ring 8 abut against the inner ring sidewall of the annular groove 513, and multiple protrusions 81 on the outer circumferential surface of the second sealing ring 8 abut against the outer ring sidewall of the annular groove 513, so that the second sealing ring 8 and the annular groove 513 are interference fit, and there is room between two adjacent protrusions 81 to allow the second sealing ring 8 to deform, so that the second sealing ring 8 can deform between two adjacent protrusions 81 when squeezed.

[0167] By setting multiple protrusions 81 to make the second sealing ring 8 and the annular groove 513 interference fit, on the one hand, the position of the second sealing ring 8 is fixed and it is not easy to misalign; on the other hand, the second sealing ring 8 can be assembled onto the body 51 first and then abut against the second wall 321, which facilitates assembly; furthermore, the second sealing ring 8 can be deformed by the compression of the second wall 321, so as to facilitate the assembly of the second pipe joint 5 and the second thermal management component 32 and achieve sealing.

[0168] Optionally, the side of the second sealing ring 8 facing the second wall 321 has at least two raised rings 82, with the two adjacent raised rings 82 spaced apart. Compared to the second sealing ring 8 having a flat or curved surface, the spaced-apart raised rings 82 are more easily deformed to form an annular sealing area, and the sealing area consists of two spaced rings, resulting in better sealing performance.

[0169] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of at least one battery cell 2.

[0170] Both the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component are flat. Both the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 have two oppositely arranged walls, forming a space for accommodating fluid between the two oppositely arranged walls. The two oppositely arranged walls can be used to install the first pipe joint 4 or the second pipe joint 5, respectively.

[0171] A first pipe connector 4 is provided on the side of the first thermal management component 31 facing the second thermal management component 32, and a second pipe connector 5 is provided on the side of the second thermal management component 32 facing the first thermal management component 31. Optionally, the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 have the same structure, that is, the side of the first thermal management component 31 facing away from the second thermal management component 32 has the second pipe connector 5, so as to connect to another thermal management component 3, or to connect to an external power device through a pipeline; the side of the second thermal management component 32 facing away from the first thermal management component 31 has the first pipe connector 4, so as to connect to another thermal management component 3, or to connect to an external power device through a pipeline.

[0172] By setting the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component 32 to contact the opposite sides of the battery cell 2 respectively, the heat exchange area of ​​the battery cell 2 is effectively increased, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency. It also alleviates the problem of uneven temperature of the battery cell 2 caused by the small heat exchange area and improves the thermal performance of the battery cell.

[0173] On the other hand, when the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 are respectively attached to the opposite sides of the battery cell 2, the distance between the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 may be small. In this embodiment, the connection structure of the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 is simplified, which facilitates the connection of the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 in a relatively narrow space. Therefore, a first pipe connector 4, a second pipe connector 5 and a flexible tube 6 can be set between the two opposite surfaces of the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32. The first pipe connector 4 can be set on the first thermal management component 31 in advance, and the second pipe connector 5 can be connected to the second end 62. Then, the first end 61 can be connected to the first pipe connector 4. Then, the second pipe connector 5 can be retracted and connected to the second thermal management component 32 by bending the flexible tube 6. This alleviates the problem that the small distance between the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 makes it inconvenient to connect, and realizes the connection between the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 without occupying the internal space of the battery, thus ensuring that the battery has a high energy density.

[0174] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the battery cell 2 includes a first side and a second side disposed opposite to each other. The first side and the second side are the two surfaces of the battery cell 2 with the largest area. The first side contacts the first thermal management component, and the second side contacts the second thermal management component.

[0175] The battery cell 2 includes a first side, a second side, a third side, a fourth side, a fifth side, and a sixth side, wherein the third side, fourth side, fifth side, and sixth side are connected end-to-end in sequence. The first side and the second side are arranged opposite to each other and are both connected to the third side, fourth side, fifth side, and sixth side. The area of ​​the first side is larger than the area of ​​any one of the third side, fourth side, fifth side, and sixth side, and the area of ​​the second side is also larger than the area of ​​any one of the third side, fourth side, fifth side, and sixth side. That is, the first side and the second side are the large surfaces of the battery cell 2, which are the surfaces of the battery cell 2 perpendicular to its own thickness. Optionally, the first thermal management component 31 is attached to the first side, and the second thermal management component 32 is attached to the second side.

[0176] By attaching the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 to the large surface of the battery cell 2, the temperature regulation of each part of the battery cell 2 tends to be the same, so as to ensure the internal temperature of the battery cell 2 is balanced, thereby improving the performance and safety of the battery cell 2.

[0177] On the other hand, when the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 are respectively attached to the large surface of the battery cell 2, the distance between the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 is equal to the thickness of the battery cell 2. The thickness of the battery cell 2 is relatively small, resulting in a small distance between the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32. In the technical solution provided in this application, the first pipe connector 4 can be set on the first thermal management component 31 in advance, and the second pipe connector 5 can be connected to the second end 62. Then, the first end 61 can be connected to the first pipe connector 4. Then, the second pipe connector 5 can be retracted and connected to the second thermal management component 32 by bending the flexible tube 6, which alleviates the problem that the small distance between the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 makes it inconvenient to connect.

[0178] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an electrical device, such as... Figure 1 The vehicle 1000 shown includes electrical equipment including the aforementioned battery 100.

[0179] The battery 100 of this electrical device dissipates heat well during operation, with a small temperature rise. The battery 100 has stable performance and high safety, and the electrical device has stable performance.

[0180] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a method for manufacturing a battery 100, such as... Figure 16 As shown, Figure 16 This application shows a schematic flowchart of a method for manufacturing a battery 100 according to some embodiments. The manufacturing method includes:

[0181] S1, Provide 2 battery cells;

[0182] S2. A first thermal management component 31 and a second thermal management component 32 are provided, both of which are used to contain fluid to regulate the temperature of the battery cell 2.

[0183] S3, Provide the first pipe fitting 4;

[0184] S4. Provide a second pipe fitting 5;

[0185] S5. A flexible tube 6 is provided, the flexible tube 6 including a first end 61 and a second end 62;

[0186] S6. The first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 are arranged opposite to each other on both sides of the battery cell 2. The first pipe connector 4 is connected to the first thermal management component 31, and the second pipe connector 5 is connected to the second end 62. The first end 61 is connected to the first pipe connector 4, and the second pipe connector 5 is connected to the second thermal management component 32, so that the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 are connected.

[0187] It should be noted that the relevant structure of the battery 100 manufactured by the above-described battery manufacturing method can be found in the battery 100 provided in the above embodiments.

[0188] When assembling the battery 100 based on the above-described manufacturing method, the steps do not necessarily need to be performed sequentially. That is, the steps can be performed in the order mentioned in the embodiments, or in a different order, or several steps can be performed simultaneously. For example, steps S1, S2, S3, S4, and S5 can be performed in any order and can be performed simultaneously.

[0189] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a manufacturing apparatus 400 for a battery 100, such as... Figure 17 As shown, Figure 17 A schematic block diagram of a manufacturing apparatus 400 for a battery 100 provided in some embodiments of this application is shown. The manufacturing apparatus 400 includes a first providing device 410, a second providing device 420, a third providing device 430, a fourth providing device 440, a fifth providing device 450, and an assembly device 460.

[0190] The first supplying device 410 is used to supply battery cell 2;

[0191] The second providing device 420 is used to provide a first thermal management component 31 and a second thermal management component 32, both of which are used to contain fluid to regulate the temperature of the battery cell 2.

[0192] The third supplying device 430 is used to supply the first pipe fitting 4.

[0193] The fourth supplying device 440 is used to supply the second pipe fitting 5.

[0194] The fifth providing device 450 is used to provide a flexible tube 6, which includes a first end 61 and a second end 62.

[0195] The assembly device 460 is used to arrange the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 opposite to each other on both sides of the battery cell 2, connect the first pipe connector 4 to the first thermal management component 31, connect the second pipe connector 5 to the second end 62, connect the first end 61 to the first pipe connector 4, and connect the second pipe connector 5 to the second thermal management component 32, so that the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 are connected.

[0196] The relevant structure of the battery 100 manufactured by the above-described manufacturing equipment 400 can be found in the battery 100 provided in the above embodiments.

[0197] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other.

[0198] According to some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figures 2-7 As shown, this application embodiment provides a battery 100, which includes a plurality of thermal management components 3 arranged in a row and a plurality of battery cells 2. Two adjacent thermal management components 3 are arranged opposite each other on both sides of a battery cell 2. That is, when the number of batteries 100 is n, the number of thermal management components 3 is n+1. The thermal management components 3 on both sides of each battery cell 2 are respectively a first thermal management component 31 and a second thermal management component 32. Both the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 are used to contain fluid to regulate the temperature of the battery cell 2. The battery cell 2 has a first surface 512, a second surface, a third surface, a fourth surface, a fifth surface, and a sixth surface. The first surface 512, the second surface, the third surface, and the fourth surface are connected end-to-end in sequence. The fifth surface and the sixth surface are arranged opposite each other and are both connected to the first surface 512, the second surface, the third surface, and the fourth surface. The area of ​​the fifth surface and the area of ​​the sixth surface are respectively larger than the area of ​​any one of the first surface 512, the second surface, the third surface, and the fourth surface. The first thermal management component 31 is attached to the fifth surface, and the second thermal management component 32 is attached to the sixth surface. The battery 100 also includes a first connector 4, a second connector 5, and a flexible tube 6. One end of the first connector 4 is connected to the first thermal management component 31, and one end of the second connector 5 is connected to the second thermal management component 32. The flexible tube 6 includes a first end 61 and a second end 62. The first end 61 is connected to the other end of the first connector 4, and the second end 62 is connected to the other end of the second connector 5, so that the first thermal management component 31 and the second thermal management component 32 are connected.

[0199] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A battery, characterized by, The battery comprises: at least one battery cell; a first thermal management component and a second thermal management component, each configured to accommodate a fluid to regulate temperature of the at least one battery cell; a first pipe joint connected to one end of the first thermal management component; a second pipe joint connected to one end of the second thermal management component; a flexible pipe comprising a first end portion and a second end portion, the first end portion connected to the other end of the first pipe joint, and the second end portion connected to the other end of the second pipe joint, so that the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are in communication; the second thermal management component comprises a second wall provided with a second through hole, the second pipe joint is detachably connected to the second wall and in communication with the second through hole; one end of the second pipe joint is provided with a buckle, the buckle is clamped to the inner surface of the second wall to limit the second pipe joint from being separated from the second wall; the second pipe joint comprises a body and a plurality of connecting arms, the body abuts the outer surface of the second wall, the body has a third through hole in communication with the second through hole, the plurality of connecting arms are located in the second through hole and are spaced apart along the circumference of the second through hole, one end of each connecting arm is connected to the body, and the other end of each connecting arm is respectively provided with the buckle; the second wall is further provided with a limiting groove recessed from the hole wall of the second through hole in a direction away from the center line of the second through hole, and the connecting arm is further provided with a limiting protrusion embedded in the limiting groove to limit the rotation of the second pipe joint along the circumference of the second pipe joint; the first thermal management component comprises a first wall provided with a first through hole, and the first pipe joint is welded to the first wall and in communication with the first through hole.

2. The battery of claim 1, wherein, The first end portion is sleeved on the first pipe joint and is in interference fit with the first pipe joint.

3. The battery of claim 1, wherein, The outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint is provided with an annular protrusion extending along the circumference of the first pipe joint, and the annular protrusion abuts the inner wall of the flexible pipe.

4. The battery of claim 3, wherein, In a direction of the first thermal management component pointing to the second thermal management component, the outer diameter of the annular protrusion gradually decreases.

5. The battery of claim 3, wherein, The outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint is provided with a plurality of annular protrusions spaced apart along the axial direction of the first pipe joint.

6. The battery of claim 3, wherein, The battery further comprises: a first sealing ring sleeved on the first pipe joint to seal the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint and the inner wall of the flexible pipe.

7. The battery of claim 6, wherein, The outer peripheral surface of the first pipe joint is further provided with a stop portion, and the first sealing ring is located between the annular protrusion and the stop portion to limit the axial movement of the first sealing ring along the first pipe joint.

8. The battery of claim 7, wherein, The plurality of annular protrusions comprises a first annular protrusion and a second annular protrusion, the distance between the first annular protrusion and the first thermal management component is greater than the distance between the second annular protrusion and the first thermal management component; and the stop portion is located between the first annular protrusion and the second annular protrusion.

9. The battery of claim 1, wherein, The limiting protrusion comprises a stop surface and a guide inclined surface, the stop surface is configured to cooperate with the limiting groove to limit rotation of the second pipe joint in a first direction, and the guide inclined surface is configured to allow rotation of the second pipe joint in a second direction, so that the connecting arm is extruded by the hole wall of the second through hole to be deformed, the buckle is separated from the second wall, and the first direction and the second direction are directions along the circumference of the second pipe joint and opposite directions.

10. The battery of claim 1, wherein, The second pipe joint further comprises a sleeve portion extending from the body in a direction away from the second wall, and the second end portion is inserted into the sleeve portion.

11. The battery of claim 10, wherein, The sleeve portion is coaxially arranged with the third through hole, the inner diameter of the sleeve portion is greater than the hole diameter of the third through hole, and the end surface of the second end portion abuts against one side of the body away from the second wall.

12. The battery of claim 10, wherein, The sleeve portion is welded with the second end portion.

13. The battery of claim 1, wherein, The battery further comprises: A second sealing ring located between the body and the second wall, the second sealing ring being used to seal the gap between the body and the second wall.

14. The battery of claim 13, wherein, The body has a first surface facing the second wall, and an annular groove is arranged on the first surface, and the second sealing ring is arranged in the annular groove. An inner circumferential surface and / or an outer circumferential surface of the second sealing ring is provided with a plurality of protrusions, and the plurality of protrusions are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the second sealing ring, so that the second sealing ring is in interference fit with the annular groove.

15. The battery of claim 1, wherein, The first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are oppositely arranged on two sides of the at least one battery cell.

16. The battery of claim 15, wherein, The battery cell comprises oppositely arranged first and second sides, which are the surfaces of the two sides with the largest area of the battery cell, the first side contacts the first thermal management component, and the second side contacts the second thermal management component.

17. An electrical device, characterized by The battery comprises the battery cell of any one of claims 1-16.

18. A method for manufacturing a battery as claimed in any one of claims 1-16, characterized by The battery comprises: providing at least one battery cell; providing a first thermal management component and a second thermal management component, both of which are used to contain fluid to regulate the temperature of the at least one battery cell; providing a first pipe joint; providing a second pipe joint; providing a flexible pipe comprising a first end portion and a second end portion; arranging the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component oppositely on two sides of the battery cell, connecting one end of the first pipe joint to the first thermal management component, connecting one end of the second pipe joint to the second end portion, connecting the first end portion to the other end of the first pipe joint, and connecting the other end of the second pipe joint to the second thermal management component, so that the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are in communication.

19. A manufacturing apparatus of a battery for manufacturing the battery according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized by, The battery comprises: a first providing device for providing at least one battery cell; a second providing device for providing a first thermal management component and a second thermal management component, both of which are used to contain fluid to regulate the temperature of the at least one battery cell; a third providing device for providing a first pipe joint; a fourth providing device configured to provide a second pipe joint; a fifth providing device configured to provide a flexible pipe including a first end portion and a second end portion; an assembling device configured to oppositely arrange the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component on two sides of the battery cell, connect one end of the first pipe joint to the first thermal management component, connect one end of the second pipe joint to the second end portion, connect the first end portion to the other end of the first pipe joint, and connect the other end of the second pipe joint to the second thermal management component, so that the first thermal management component and the second thermal management component are communicated.

Images