Battery and housing assembly thereof

Abstract

This application provides a battery and its housing assembly. The housing assembly includes a housing and an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly is mounted on the side wall of the housing and includes a connecting piece and a first insulating piece. The connecting piece is disposed inside the housing, and the first insulating piece is disposed between the connecting piece and the housing. The connecting piece and the first insulating piece together form a flow channel communicating with the interior of the housing. The first insulating piece has a first through hole communicating with the flow channel, and the side wall of the housing has a second through hole facing the first through hole. During subsequent processing of the battery, the connecting piece of the electrode assembly can block the electrolyte, reducing electrolyte loss during subsequent processing, thereby reducing the amount of electrolyte replenishment during secondary processing, lowering the battery production cost, and improving the quality of subsequent battery processing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery energy technology, and in particular to a battery and its casing assembly. Background Technology

[0002] A battery is a device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy. It has a wide range of applications in daily life. As the battery industry develops, companies are placing increasingly higher demands on battery production efficiency and quality.

[0003] Currently, a battery consists of a casing, terminal assemblies, and cells. The terminal assemblies are mounted on the side wall of the casing, and the cells are located inside the casing. One tab of the cell is welded to the terminal assemblies, and the other tab of the cell is welded to the side wall of the casing. An electrolyte injection port is provided on the casing; after the cells and casing are assembled, electrolyte is injected into the battery through this port.

[0004] However, after the electrolyte is injected, the battery needs to undergo further processing. During this process, the electrolyte is prone to overflowing from the casing, increasing the cost of battery production and affecting the quality of subsequent processing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Based on this, this application provides a battery and its casing assembly to solve the problem in the prior art where electrolyte easily overflows from the casing during subsequent processing, increasing battery production costs and affecting the quality of subsequent processing.

[0006] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a housing assembly is provided, including a housing and a pole assembly;

[0007] The pole assembly is installed on the side wall of the housing. The pole assembly includes a connecting piece and a first insulating piece. The connecting piece is disposed inside the housing, and the first insulating piece is disposed between the connecting piece and the housing. The connecting piece and the first insulating piece together form a flow channel communicating with the inside of the housing. The first insulating piece is provided with a first through hole communicating with the flow channel, and the side wall of the housing is provided with a second through hole facing the first through hole.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the flow channel includes a first groove disposed on the side of the connecting piece facing the first insulating sheet, a first opening of the first groove communicating with a first through hole, and a second opening of the first groove located at the side end of the connecting piece.

[0009] In one possible implementation, a first flow-blocking structure is provided at the bottom of the first groove.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the first flow-blocking structure includes a plurality of first ribs disposed at the bottom of the first groove, one end of the first ribs being connected to the sidewall of the first groove, and the other end of the first ribs extending in a first direction toward the centerline of the first groove.

[0011] In one possible implementation, multiple first ribs are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the first groove relative to the centerline of the first groove.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the first flow-blocking structure further includes a plurality of second ribs disposed at the bottom of the first groove, the plurality of second ribs being arranged at intervals along the center line of the first groove, and the second ribs being staggered from the first ribs.

[0013] In one possible implementation, each second rib includes a first segment and a second segment, with the first end of the first segment and the first end of the second segment connected, the second end of the first segment extending along a first direction toward one side wall of the first groove, and the second end of the second segment extending along the first direction toward the other side wall of the first groove.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the projections of the first rib and the second rib in the axial direction of the second through hole are both spaced apart from the second through hole.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the first flow-blocking structure includes a plurality of grooves formed at the bottom of the first channel.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first groove forms a Tesla valve on the connecting piece, and the opening of the Tesla valve is connected to the first through hole and the second through hole, respectively.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the flow channel further includes a second groove disposed on the side of the first insulating sheet facing the connecting piece, a third opening of the second groove communicating with the first through hole, and a fourth opening of the second groove located at the side end of the first insulating sheet.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the projection of the second slot at least partially coincides with the projection of the first slot in the thickness direction of the pole assembly.

[0019] In one possible implementation, a second flow-blocking structure is provided on the second slot.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the connecting piece is provided with a connection area that connects to the electrode of the battery cell, and a first through hole and a second through hole are respectively provided opposite to the connection area.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the side of the connecting piece facing the first insulating sheet is provided with an inwardly recessed groove, the groove communicating with the first opening of the first groove, and the connecting area is located at the bottom of the groove.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the thickness of the connecting piece at the groove location is 10%-80% of the overall thickness of the connecting piece.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the connecting piece is welded to the electrode tab, and the width of the solder mark on the side of the electrode tab facing the connecting piece is greater than the width of the solder mark on the side of the electrode tab away from the connecting piece.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the housing assembly further includes a sealing piece, which includes a boss and an outer edge surrounding the boss, the boss extending into a second through hole, and the outer edge fixed to the housing to block the second through hole.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the connecting piece is welded to the electrode tab of the battery cell. In the axial direction parallel to the second through hole, there is a gap between the boss and the solder mark on the connecting piece, and the distance between the boss and the solder mark on the connecting piece is greater than 0.5 mm.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the projection of the sealing piece in the axial direction parallel to the second through hole at least partially overlaps with the solder mark on the connecting piece.

[0027] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a battery is provided, including a battery cell and the aforementioned housing assembly. The battery cell is disposed inside the housing, a first electrode of the battery cell is connected to a connecting piece, and a second electrode of the battery cell is connected to the housing.

[0028] This application provides a battery and its housing assembly. The housing assembly includes a housing and an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly is mounted on the side wall of the housing and includes a connecting piece and a first insulating piece. The connecting piece and the first insulating piece together form a flow channel communicating with the interior of the housing. The first insulating piece has a first through hole communicating with the flow channel, and the side wall of the housing has a second through hole opposite to the first through hole. Workers can inject electrolyte into the housing through the second through hole, the first through hole, and the flow channel. During subsequent battery processing, the connecting piece of the electrode assembly can block electrolyte loss during processing, thereby reducing the amount of electrolyte replenishment during secondary processing, lowering battery production costs, and improving the quality of subsequent battery processing. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a battery provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A partially enlarged schematic diagram of the battery shown;

[0032] Figure 3 An exploded view of a battery provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the housing and pole assembly provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the housing and pole assembly provided in an embodiment of this application from another perspective;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the battery at the end position provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the battery at the first tab position provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connecting piece provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another connecting piece provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 10 Another exploded view of the battery provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another connecting piece provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first insulating sheet provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the end of a battery provided in an embodiment of this application without the sealing plate installed;

[0043] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the end of a battery provided in an embodiment of this application after a sealing piece has been installed;

[0044] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery at the second tab position provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0045] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0046] 1-Shell shell; 11-Bottom shell; 111-Second through hole; 12-Cover body;

[0047] 2-Pole post assembly; 21-Connecting piece; 211-First groove; 2111-First rib; 2112-Second rib; 21121-First segment; 21122-Second segment; 2113-Main stream segment; 2114-Whirlpool segment; 212-Groove; 22-First insulating piece; 221-First through hole; 222-Second groove; 23-Flow channel; 24-Second insulating piece; 25-Pole post;

[0048] 3-Sealing piece; 31-Leaning boss; 32-Outer edge;

[0049] 4-Battery cell; 41-First tab; 42-Second tab. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar components or components having the same or similar functions throughout. The described embodiments are some, but not all, of the embodiments of this application. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. The embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or the internal communication between two components or the interaction 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.

[0052] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0053] The terms “first,” “second,” and “third” (if any) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence.

[0054] Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, product, or display that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not explicitly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, product, or display.

[0055] In related technologies, the battery casing is provided with an injection hole for electrolyte filling. After the cell and casing are assembled, electrolyte can be injected into the casing through the injection hole. However, after electrolyte filling, the battery needs to undergo subsequent processing, such as formation or capacity testing. During this subsequent processing, gas is generated in the casing. This gas can easily carry electrolyte out of the injection hole, requiring secondary electrolyte replenishment after subsequent processing. Furthermore, the electrolyte overflowing from the injection hole can easily cause dirt and corrosion on the outside of the casing, increasing battery production costs and affecting the quality of subsequent processing.

[0056] After repeated consideration and verification, the inventors of this application discovered that if a flow channel is provided on the terminal assembly, and the injection hole on the casing is connected to the flow channel, electrolyte can be injected into the interior of the casing through the injection hole and the flow channel. During subsequent processing, gas generated in the casing can be discharged from the casing through the flow channel and the injection hole, and the connecting piece of the terminal assembly can act as a barrier to the electrolyte in the casing. In this way, electrolyte loss in the battery can be reduced during subsequent processing, lowering the battery production cost and improving the quality of subsequent processing.

[0057] In view of this, the inventors of this application have designed a battery and its housing assembly. The housing assembly mounts the terminal assembly onto the housing, and the connecting piece of the terminal assembly and the first insulating piece together form a flow channel communicating with the interior of the housing. The first insulating piece has a first through hole communicating with the flow channel, and the side wall of the housing has a second through hole directly opposite the first through hole. Electrolyte can be injected into the interior of the housing through the second through hole, the first through hole, and the flow channel. The connecting piece can block electrolyte in the housing, reducing electrolyte loss during subsequent battery processing.

[0058] The technical solutions of the battery and its casing assembly provided in the embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] Reference Figures 1-7As shown, the housing assembly provided in this application embodiment includes a housing 1 and a pole assembly 2. The pole assembly 2 is installed on the side wall of the housing 1. The pole assembly 2 includes a connecting piece 21 and a first insulating piece 22. The connecting piece 21 is disposed inside the housing 1, and the first insulating piece 22 is disposed between the connecting piece 21 and the housing 1. The connecting piece 21 and the first insulating piece 22 together form a flow channel 23 communicating with the inside of the housing 1. The first insulating piece 22 is provided with a first through hole 221 communicating with the flow channel 23. The side wall of the housing 1 is provided with a second through hole 111 facing the first through hole 221.

[0060] Indicative, such as Figure 3 As shown, the housing 1 includes a bottom shell 11 and a cover 12 covering the bottom shell 11, and the electrode assembly 2 is installed on the side wall of the bottom shell 11. After the battery cell 4 is disposed in the bottom shell 11 and assembled with the bottom shell 11, the cover 12 can be placed on the bottom shell 11 and welded to the bottom shell 11.

[0061] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the electrode assembly 2 also includes a second insulating sheet 24 and an electrode 25. The second insulating sheet 24 is located on the outside of the housing 1. The electrode 25 passes through the second insulating sheet 24, the side wall of the housing 1, the first insulating sheet 22, and the connecting piece 21, and is riveted to the side wall of the housing 1. Schematic, the second insulating sheet 24, the side wall of the housing 1, the first insulating sheet 22, and the connecting piece 21 are respectively provided with holes for the electrode 25 to pass through. The electrode 25 can be electrically connected to the tab of the battery cell 4 through the connecting piece 21. By providing the first insulating sheet 22 and the second insulating sheet 24, short circuits can be avoided due to conductive contact between the electrode 25 and the connecting piece 21 and the housing 1.

[0062] The flow channel 23 can be used for injecting electrolyte. Schematic, the axis of the second through hole 111 is perpendicular to both the connecting piece 21 and the first insulating piece 22. The flow channel 23 is positioned between the connecting piece 21 and the first insulating piece 22, allowing the connecting piece 21 to act as a barrier against the electrolyte in the housing 1. During electrolyte injection, the electrolyte can enter the interior of the housing 1 through the second through hole 111, the first through hole 221, and the flow channel 23.

[0063] The housing assembly provided in this embodiment includes a housing 1 and an electrode assembly 2. The electrode assembly 2 is mounted on the side wall of the housing 1. The electrode assembly 2 includes a connecting piece 21 and a first insulating piece 22. The connecting piece 21 and the first insulating piece 22 together form a flow channel 23 communicating with the interior of the housing 1. The first insulating piece 22 is provided with a first through hole 221 communicating with the flow channel 23. The side wall of the housing 1 is provided with a second through hole 111 facing the first through hole 221. Workers can inject electrolyte into the housing 1 through the second through hole 111, the first through hole 221, and the flow channel 23. During subsequent battery processing, the connecting piece 21 of the electrode assembly 2 can block the electrolyte, reducing electrolyte loss during subsequent processing, thereby reducing the amount of electrolyte replenishment during secondary processing, reducing battery production costs, and improving the quality of subsequent battery processing.

[0064] In addition, by setting up the flow channel 23, the stroke of the electrolyte flow can be increased. During the subsequent processing of the battery, when some electrolyte enters the flow channel 23, the amount of electrolyte flowing out of the flow channel 23 can be reduced per unit time, that is, the amount of electrolyte lost by the battery during the subsequent processing can be reduced.

[0065] In one embodiment, such as Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the flow channel 23 includes a first groove 211, which is disposed on the side of the connecting piece 21 facing the first insulating piece 22. The first opening of the first groove 211 communicates with the first through hole 221, and the second opening of the first groove 211 is located at the side end of the connecting piece 21.

[0066] The first groove 211 serves as a flow guide. Those skilled in the art can install the first groove 211 on the connecting piece 21 using stamping or one-piece molding processes, which are not limited to a single method. For example, the length of the first groove 211 can extend along the length of the connecting piece 21. Along the length of the first groove 211, the first opening and the second opening are located at opposite ends of the first groove 211. After the electrolyte is injected through the second through hole 111 on the housing 1, it can flow into the interior of the first groove 211 through the first opening. Under the flow guiding effect of the first groove 211, it flows into the interior of the housing 1 through the second opening of the first groove 211.

[0067] For example, the thickness of the connecting piece 21 at the first groove 211 position can be 10%-80% of the thickness of the connecting piece 21 at other positions. This ensures the structural strength of the connecting piece 21 while also ensuring the cross-sectional dimensions of the flow channel 23, facilitating the injection of electrolyte.

[0068] This structure, by providing a first groove 211 on the connecting piece 21, forms a flow channel 23 between the connecting piece 21 and the first insulating piece 22. This flow channel 23 can be used for electrolyte injection and for venting gas from the housing 1 during subsequent processing.

[0069] In one specific embodiment, the bottom of the first groove 211 is provided with a first flow-blocking structure.

[0070] The first flow-blocking structure can be set at the bottom of the first tank 211 through a one-time molding process. The first flow-blocking structure can prevent the electrolyte in the housing 1 from flowing from the second opening of the first tank 211 to the first opening of the first tank 211.

[0071] The following describes several possible implementations of the first flow-blocking structure. However, those skilled in the art should understand that the specific implementations of the first flow-blocking structure described below should not be regarded as specific limitations on the first flow-blocking structure.

[0072] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, the first flow-blocking structure includes a plurality of first ribs 2111 disposed at the bottom of the first groove 211. One end of the first rib 2111 is connected to the side wall of the first groove 211, and the other end of the first rib 2111 extends in a first direction toward the center line of the first groove 211.

[0073] It should be noted that the first direction is Figure 1 The direction from left to right is the flow direction of the electrolyte within the flow channel 23 during the injection process.

[0074] The first rib 2111 protrudes in the direction from the bottom of the first groove 211 towards the first insulating sheet 22. Each first rib 2111 can be a straight strip or an arc shape; no single limitation is made here. Each first rib 2111 can be formed in a single molding process at the bottom of the first groove 211. For example, multiple first ribs 2111 are spaced apart along the extension direction of the first groove 211. Those skilled in the art can determine the specific number of first ribs 2111 according to actual needs; no single limitation is made here.

[0075] This structure, by setting the first protrusion 2111, allows the electrolyte in the first groove 211 to flow over the first protrusion 2111 and into the interior of the casing 1 during the electrolyte injection process. During subsequent battery processing, if electrolyte from the casing 1 enters the first groove 211 and comes into contact with the first protrusion 2111, the first protrusion 2111 can block that portion of the electrolyte, thereby reducing electrolyte loss during subsequent processing.

[0076] Furthermore, such as Figure 9As shown, multiple first ribs 2111 are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the first groove 211 relative to the center line of the first groove 211.

[0077] Specifically, the multiple first protruding ribs 2111 are divided into two groups. One group of first protruding ribs 2111 is connected to one side wall of the first groove 211, and the other group of first protruding ribs 2111 is connected to the other side wall of the first groove 211. The positions of the two groups of first protruding ribs 2111 are directly opposite each other.

[0078] This structure divides the first rib 2111 into two groups, which shortens the length of the first rib 2111. During the electrolyte injection process, the electrolyte in the first groove 211 can more easily pass over the first rib 2111 and enter the interior of the groove, facilitating electrolyte injection. At the same time, dividing the first rib 2111 into two groups ensures that the ratio between the projected area of ​​the multiple first ribs 2111 in the extension direction of the first groove 211 and the cross-sectional area of ​​the first groove 211 is relatively stable. During subsequent battery processing, the multiple first ribs 2111 can effectively block electrolyte, thereby reducing electrolyte loss during subsequent processing.

[0079] Continue reading Figure 9 The first flow-blocking structure also includes a plurality of second ribs 2112 disposed at the bottom of the first groove 211. The plurality of second ribs 2112 are arranged at intervals along the center line of the first groove 211, and the second ribs 2112 are offset from the first ribs 2111.

[0080] It is worth mentioning that the projections of the plurality of first ribs 2111 and the plurality of second ribs 2112 in the extending direction of the first groove 211 cover the cross-section of the first groove 211. For example, in the extending direction of the first groove 211, a second rib 2112 is provided between each two adjacent first ribs 2111.

[0081] By providing the second rib 2112, the blocking effect of the first flow-blocking structure on the electrolyte is further enhanced. During electrolyte injection, the electrolyte can pass over the first rib 2111 and the second rib 2112 respectively and enter the interior of the casing 1. During subsequent battery processing, the multiple first ribs 2111 and the multiple second ribs 2112 can jointly prevent the electrolyte from flowing from the second opening of the first tank 211 to the first opening of the first tank 211.

[0082] Specifically, such as Figure 9 As shown, each second rib 2112 includes a first segment 21121 and a second segment 21122. The first end of the first segment 21121 is connected to the first end of the second segment 21122. The second end of the first segment 21121 extends along a first direction toward one side wall of the first groove 211, and the second end of the second segment 21122 extends along the first direction toward the other side wall of the first groove 211.

[0083] The first segment 21121 and the second segment 21122 can be either straight or arc-shaped structures, and no single limitation is made here. Figure 9 As shown, the second rib 2112 is formed into a "V" shape, with one side of the "V" shape being the first segment 21121 and the other side being the second segment 21122. The opening of the "V" shape faces the second opening of the first groove 211.

[0084] With the above configuration, during electrolyte injection, the electrolyte in the first tank 211 can pass over the first section 21121 and the second section 21122 respectively to enter the interior of the casing 1. During subsequent battery processing, if the electrolyte in the casing 1 enters the first tank 211 and comes into contact with the second rib 2112, the second rib 2112 can block that portion of the electrolyte and guide it to the connection point between the first section 21121 and the second section 21122, thereby reducing electrolyte loss during subsequent battery processing.

[0085] like Figure 6 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the projections of the first rib 2111 and the second rib 2112 in the axial direction of the second through hole 111 are both spaced apart from the second through hole 111.

[0086] That is to say, on the first groove 211, neither the first protrusion 2111 nor the second protrusion 2112 extends into the position corresponding to the first groove 211 and the second through hole 111. In this embodiment, the size of the interval between the projection of the first protrusion 2111 and the second protrusion 2112 in the axial direction of the second through hole 111 and the second through hole 111 is not limited, and those skilled in the art can set it as needed.

[0087] With the above settings, during the liquid injection process, the first rib 2111 and the second rib 2112 will not obstruct the electrolyte from entering the first groove 211 on the connecting piece 21 from the second through hole 111.

[0088] In another possible implementation, the first flow-blocking structure includes a plurality of grooves formed at the bottom of the first groove 211.

[0089] For example, multiple grooves can be spaced apart along the extension direction of the first groove 211, and each groove can extend along the width direction of the first groove 211, or the extension direction of each groove can be inclined to the extension direction of the first groove 211. The specific depth and number of grooves can be set according to actual needs and are not limited here.

[0090] Understandably, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first groove 211 increases at the trench position. During the subsequent processing of the battery, if the electrolyte enters the first groove 211 and flows along the first groove 211, the speed of the electrolyte slows down when it reaches the trench position. In a unit of time, multiple trenches can reduce the amount of electrolyte overflowing from the second through hole 111.

[0091] In one embodiment, such as Figure 11 As shown, the first groove 211 forms a Tesla valve on the connecting piece 21, and the opening of the Tesla valve is connected to the first through hole 221 and the second through hole 111 respectively.

[0092] The Tesla valve's opening allows electrolyte to flow into its interior during the injection process. Notably, the Tesla valve is a non-mechanical, unidirectional flow valve; its operating characteristic is that fluid flow into the valve encounters minimal resistance, while reverse flow encounters very high resistance. Specifically, the first groove 211 includes a main flow section 2113 and multiple vortex segments 2114 located on either side of the main flow section 2113, with the vortex segments 2114 arranged alternately on both sides of the main flow section 2113. Figure 1 In the Tesla valve shown, its opening is located at the left end of the Tesla valve. During the electrolyte injection process, the electrolyte flows in from the left end and out from the right end of the Tesla valve. During the electrolyte injection process, the electrolyte entering the first tank 211 through the second through-hole 111 flows from left to right. This portion of the electrolyte flows through the main flow section 2113 and the vortex section 2114, and finally flows into the interior of the casing 1 from the first tank 211. During subsequent battery processing, if the electrolyte enters the first tank 211 from the second opening, this portion of the electrolyte also flows from right to left through the main flow section 2113 and the vortex section 2114. However, at the point where the main flow section 2113 and the vortex section 2114 converge, the electrolyte flowing in the main flow section 2113 and the vortex section 2114 will obstruct each other, preventing the electrolyte from flowing from the second opening of the first tank 211 to the first opening of the first tank 211.

[0093] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 and Figure 12 As shown, the flow channel 23 also includes a second groove 222 disposed on the side of the first insulating sheet 22 facing the connecting piece 21. The third opening of the second groove 222 communicates with the first through hole 221, and the fourth opening of the second groove 222 is located at the side end of the first insulating sheet 22.

[0094] The second tank 222 also serves as a flow guide, with the third and fourth openings located at opposite ends of the length of the second tank 222. During the electrolyte injection process, the electrolyte flows in through the third opening and out through the fourth opening of the second tank 222.

[0095] The second groove 222 can be formed on the first insulating sheet 22 in a one-time molding process. For example, the ratio between the depth of the second groove 222 and the thickness of the first insulating sheet 22 can be the same as the ratio between the depth of the first groove 211 and the thickness of the connecting piece 21.

[0096] The efficiency of electrolyte injection can be improved by setting the second groove 222. During the electrolyte injection process, part of the electrolyte flows into the interior of the housing 1 through the first groove 211 on the connecting piece 21, and the other part of the electrolyte flows into the interior of the housing 1 through the second groove 222 on the first insulating piece 22.

[0097] In one specific embodiment, in the thickness direction of the pole assembly 2, the projection of the second groove 222 at least partially coincides with the projection of the first groove 211.

[0098] Schematic illustration: the extension direction of the second groove 222 can be parallel to the extension direction of the first groove 211. Understandably, the second groove 222 and the first groove 211 are interconnected to form a flow channel 23. During the electrolyte injection process, the electrolyte can enter the interior of the casing 1 through the flow channel 23 formed by the first groove 211 and the second groove 222. This arrangement increases the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow channel 23, further improving the electrolyte injection efficiency.

[0099] Furthermore, a second flow-blocking structure is provided on the second groove 222. This second flow-blocking structure can be formed in a single molding process at the bottom of the second groove 222. Schematic, the second flow-blocking structure on the second groove 222 can be the same as the first flow-blocking structure on the first groove 211, and will not be described further here.

[0100] By setting a second flow-blocking structure on the second tank 222, the second flow-blocking structure can prevent the electrolyte in the casing 1 from flowing from the fourth opening of the second tank 222 to the third opening of the second tank 222 during subsequent processing.

[0101] In one embodiment, Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 13 As shown, the connecting piece 21 is provided with a connection area for connecting with the electrode tab of the battery cell 4, and the first through hole 221 and the second through hole 111 are respectively positioned opposite the connection area.

[0102] Schematic illustration: The connecting piece 21 can be welded to the tab of the battery cell 4. Specifically, after the battery cell 4 is placed in the housing 1, an external device can be used to press the tab of the battery cell 4 against the connecting piece 21. A laser is then used to pass through the first through hole 221 and the second through hole 111 and strike the connection area of ​​the connecting piece 21 to weld and fix the connecting piece 21 to the tab of the battery cell 4. When the connecting piece 21 is provided with a first groove 211, the connection area is at least partially located at the bottom of the first groove 211. It is worth mentioning that when the first groove 211 is provided with a first rib 2111 and / or a second rib 2112, there is a gap between the projection of the second through hole 111 in its axial direction and the first rib 2111 and / or the second rib 2112, to avoid the first rib 2111 and / or the second rib 2112 affecting the welding between the connecting piece 21 and the tab.

[0103] With the above configuration, the second through hole 111 on the housing 1 can be used for liquid injection or for connecting the connecting piece 21 to the electrode tab. That is, the housing 1 does not need two holes for liquid injection and connecting the electrode tab to the connecting piece 21, respectively. This reduces the cost and process of creating holes on the housing 1, thereby reducing the manufacturing difficulty of the battery. Furthermore, the reduced number of holes on the housing 1 helps improve the structural strength of the housing 1. Similarly, the cost and process of creating holes on the first insulating sheet 22 are also reduced. The reduced number of holes on the first insulating sheet 22 helps improve the structural strength of the first insulating sheet 22.

[0104] In one embodiment, the side of the connecting piece 21 facing the first insulating piece 22 is provided with an inwardly recessed groove 212, the groove 212 communicates with the first opening of the first groove 211, and the connecting area is located at the bottom of the groove 212.

[0105] The groove 212 can be formed on the connecting piece 21 by processes such as stamping or etching. The cross-sectional shape of the groove 212 can be a suitable shape such as square or circle, and is not limited to one shape. For example, the depth of the groove 212 on the connecting piece 21 can be the same as the depth of the first groove 211, so that the electrolyte can flow from the groove 212 into the first groove 211 during the electrolyte injection process.

[0106] By setting the groove 212, the thickness of the connecting piece 21 at the connection area is reduced. When the connecting piece 21 is thick, it ensures that the laser can penetrate the connecting piece 21 to weld and fix the connecting piece 21 to the electrode tab of the battery cell 4. In addition, by setting the groove 212, the flow area of ​​the electrolyte can be further increased, which facilitates the injection of electrolyte into the interior of the housing 1.

[0107] In one specific embodiment, the thickness of the connecting piece 21 at the groove 212 position is 10%-80% of the overall thickness of the connecting piece 21.

[0108] For example, when the thickness of the connecting piece 21 is greater than 0.3 mm, its thickness at the groove 212 position is greater than 0.05 mm. When the thickness of the connecting piece 21 at the groove 212 position is less than 10% of the overall thickness of the connecting piece 21, the overall structural strength of the connecting piece 21 will be weak; when the thickness of the connecting piece 21 at the groove 212 position is greater than 80% of the overall thickness of the connecting piece 21, it will be difficult for the laser to penetrate the connecting piece 21 after hitting the connection area on the connecting piece 21 in order to weld the electrode of the battery cell 4 to the connecting piece 21.

[0109] With the above settings, while ensuring the structural strength of the connecting piece 21, the connecting piece 21 can be stably connected to the electrode of the battery cell 4 using a laser.

[0110] Indicatively, the connecting piece 21 is welded to the electrode tab, and the width of the solder mark on the side of the electrode tab facing the connecting piece 21 is greater than the width of the solder mark on the side of the electrode tab away from the connecting piece 21.

[0111] Specifically, the connecting piece 21 and the electrode can be connected by laser welding. After the electrode of the battery cell 4 is pressed against the side of the connecting piece 21 facing away from the first insulating sheet 22, a laser is used to pass through the second through hole 111 on the housing 1 and the first through hole 221 on the first insulating sheet 22 from the outside of the housing 1 and strike the connecting piece 21. The laser penetrates the connecting piece 21 to weld the electrode of the battery cell 4 to the connecting piece 21. When the laser penetrates the connecting piece 21 and strikes the electrode, a solder mark can be formed on the electrode, and the width of the solder mark on the side of the electrode facing the connecting piece 21 is greater than the width of the solder mark on the side of the electrode facing away from the connecting piece 21.

[0112] The above configuration facilitates the connection between the tab and the connecting piece 21, thereby reducing the manufacturing difficulty of the battery. On the other hand, it can reduce the risk of short circuit caused by the solder on the side of the tab facing the cell body coming into contact with the cell body.

[0113] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the housing assembly provided in this application also includes a sealing piece 3. The sealing piece 3 includes a boss 31 and an outer eave 32 surrounding the boss 31. The boss 31 extends into the second through hole 111, and the outer eave 32 is fixed to the housing 1 to block the second through hole 111.

[0114] Schematic illustration: A metal sheet can be used as the sealing piece 3. A boss 31 and an outer eave 32 surrounding the boss 31 are formed on the metal sheet by stamping its central region. When the boss 31 extends into the second through hole 111, the sealing piece 3 can be quickly positioned relative to the housing 1, ensuring that the sealing piece 3 reliably seals the second through hole 111 on the housing 1. The outer eave 32 of the sealing piece 3 can be fixed to the housing 1 by welding.

[0115] With this structure, after the battery is further processed, the sealing piece 3 can be used to seal the second through hole 111 of the housing 1, so that the inside of the battery is sealed and the normal use of the battery is guaranteed.

[0116] Furthermore, the connecting piece 21 is welded to the electrode tab of the battery cell 4. In the axial direction parallel to the second through hole 111, there is a gap between the boss 31 and the solder mark on the connecting piece 21, and the distance between the boss 31 and the solder mark on the connecting piece 21 is greater than 0.5mm.

[0117] Understandably, after the connecting piece 21 is welded to the tab of the battery cell 4, a solder mark is formed on the connecting piece 21, and the solder mark is made of the same material as the connecting piece 21 and is conductive. In this embodiment, the spacing between the boss 31 and the solder mark on the connecting piece 21 can prevent the connecting piece 21 from interfering with the installation of the sealing piece 3, ensuring that the sealing piece 3 can reliably seal the second through hole 111 on the housing 1. The distance between the boss 31 and the solder mark on the connecting piece 21 is greater than 0.5mm, which can prevent conductive contact between the sealing piece 3 and the connecting piece 21, thereby preventing a short circuit in the battery.

[0118] In one embodiment, the projection of the sealing piece 3 in the axial direction parallel to the second through hole 111 at least partially overlaps with the solder mark on the connecting piece 21.

[0119] Specifically, when the second through hole 111 on the housing 1 is only used for liquid injection, the projection of the sealing piece 3 at least partially overlaps with the weld mark on the connecting piece 21. When the second through hole 111 on the housing 1 can be used for both liquid injection and welding, the projection of the sealing piece 3 completely covers the weld mark on the connecting piece 21. It is understandable that the position where the connecting piece 21 is welded to the tab coincides with the projection of the flow channel 23 on the connecting piece 21, which facilitates reducing the volume of the connecting piece 21 and the space occupied by the connecting piece 21 in the housing 1, thus improving the energy density of the battery.

[0120] This application also provides a battery, such as Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 15 As shown, the assembly includes a battery cell 4 and the aforementioned housing assembly. The battery cell 4 is disposed inside the housing 1. The first tab 41 of the battery cell 4 is connected to the connecting piece 21, and the second tab 42 of the battery cell 4 is connected to the housing 1.

[0121] The first electrode 41 can be either a positive or negative electrode. Correspondingly, when the first electrode 41 is a positive electrode, the second electrode 42 is a negative electrode; and when the first electrode 41 is a negative electrode, the second electrode 42 is a positive electrode. Taking the first electrode 41 as an example, it includes a soft electrode and a hard electrode extending from the battery cell 4 body. The soft electrode has a multi-layer structure, and the hard electrode has a "U"-shaped structure. Each layer of the soft electrode can be welded to one side of the "U"-shaped structure on the outside of the housing 1, and the other side of the "U"-shaped structure can be connected to the connecting piece 21. This arrangement ensures the reliability of the electrical connection between each layer of the soft electrode and the connecting piece 21.

[0122] The battery provided in this embodiment, due to the use of the aforementioned casing assembly, can reduce liquid loss during subsequent processing, resulting in lower battery production costs and higher yield during subsequent processing.

[0123] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A housing assembly, characterized in that, Includes housing and pole assembly; The housing includes a bottom shell and a cover body covering the bottom shell. The pole assembly is installed on the side wall of the bottom shell of the housing. The pole assembly includes a connecting piece and a first insulating piece. The connecting piece is disposed inside the housing. The first insulating piece is disposed between the connecting piece and the housing. The connecting piece and the first insulating piece together form a flow channel communicating with the inside of the housing. The first insulating piece is provided with a first through hole communicating with the flow channel. The side wall of the housing is provided with a second through hole facing the first through hole. The flow channel includes a first groove, which is disposed on the side of the connecting piece facing the first insulating sheet. The first opening of the first groove communicates with the first through hole, and the second opening of the first groove is located at the side end of the connecting piece, so that the electrolyte flows into the interior of the housing from the second opening. The bottom of the first tank is provided with a first flow-blocking structure to prevent the electrolyte in the shell from flowing from the second opening of the first tank to the first opening of the first tank. or, The first groove forms a Tesla valve on the connecting piece, and the opening of the Tesla valve is connected to the first through hole and the second through hole respectively.

2. The housing assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first flow-blocking structure includes a plurality of first ribs disposed at the bottom of the first groove. One end of the first rib is connected to the sidewall of the first groove, and the other end of the first rib extends in a first direction toward the centerline of the first groove.

3. The housing assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, Multiple first ribs are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the first groove relative to the center line of the first groove.

4. The housing assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first flow-blocking structure further includes a plurality of second ribs disposed at the bottom of the first groove, the plurality of second ribs being arranged at intervals along the center line of the first groove, and the second ribs being staggered from the first ribs.

5. The housing assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, Each of the second protruding ribs includes a first segment and a second segment. The first end of the first segment and the first end of the second segment are connected. The second end of the first segment extends along the first direction toward one side wall of the first groove, and the second end of the second segment extends along the first direction toward the other side wall of the first groove.

6. The housing assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The projections of the first rib and the second rib in the axial direction of the second through hole are spaced apart from the second through hole.

7. The housing assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first flow-blocking structure includes a plurality of grooves formed at the bottom of the first channel.

8. The housing assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow channel also includes a second groove disposed on the side of the first insulating sheet facing the connecting piece, the third opening of the second groove communicating with the first through hole, and the fourth opening of the second groove located at the side end of the first insulating sheet.

9. The housing assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, In the thickness direction of the pole assembly, the projection of the second groove at least partially coincides with the projection of the first groove.

10. The housing assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second groove is provided with a second flow-blocking structure.

11. The housing assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting piece is provided with a connection area for connecting to the electrode of the battery cell, and the first through hole and the second through hole are respectively provided opposite to the connection area.

12. The housing assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, The connecting piece has an inwardly recessed groove on the side facing the first insulating sheet. The groove communicates with the first opening of the first groove, and the connecting area is located at the bottom of the groove.

13. The housing assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The thickness of the connecting piece at the groove position is 10%-80% of the overall thickness of the connecting piece.

14. The housing assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, The connecting piece is welded to the electrode tab, and the width of the solder mark on the side of the electrode tab facing the connecting piece is greater than the width of the solder mark on the side of the electrode tab away from the connecting piece.

15. The housing assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing assembly further includes a sealing piece, which includes a boss and an outer edge surrounding the boss. The boss extends into the second through hole, and the outer edge is fixed to the housing to block the second through hole.

16. The housing assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, The connecting piece is welded to the electrode tab of the battery cell. In the axial direction parallel to the second through hole, there is a gap between the boss and the solder mark on the connecting piece, and the distance between the boss and the solder mark on the connecting piece is greater than 0.5 mm.

17. The housing assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that, The projection of the sealing piece in the axial direction parallel to the second through hole at least partially overlaps with the solder mark on the connecting piece.

18. A battery, characterized in that, The device includes a battery cell and a housing assembly as described in any one of claims 1-17, wherein the battery cell is disposed inside the housing, a first tab of the battery cell is connected to the connecting piece, and a second tab of the battery cell is connected to the housing.

Images