Battery, electrical device, method and equipment for preparing battery

Abstract

The present application discloses a battery, an electrical device, a method and a device for manufacturing a battery. The battery includes: a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction, each battery cell having a plate-shaped electrode terminal disposed on an end face in the first direction, and there are two electrode terminals between two end faces of two battery cells arranged opposite to each other in the first direction; wherein, along the thickness direction of the electrode terminal, the two electrode terminals are configured to be at least partially stacked and fixedly connected between the two end faces to realize electrical connection of the two battery cells. By directly fixedly connecting the electrode terminals of the battery cells, the electrical connection between the two battery cells is realized, simplifying the electrical connection structure between the battery cells and reducing various risks brought by arranging a busbar component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of batteries, and particularly to a battery, an electrical device, a method and equipment for preparing a battery. Background Art

[0002] A chemical battery, an electro-chemical battery, an electrochemical cell or an electrochemical battery refers to a type of device that converts the chemical energy of positive and negative active materials into electrical energy through an oxidation-reduction reaction. Different from ordinary oxidation-reduction reactions, the oxidation and reduction reactions are carried out separately. Oxidation occurs at the negative electrode, and reduction occurs at the positive electrode. The gain and loss of electrons are carried out through an external circuit, so an electric current is formed. This is the essential feature of all batteries. After long-term research and development, chemical batteries have seen a wide variety of types and extensive applications. From huge devices that can only be accommodated in a building to types measured in millimeters. The development of modern electronic technology has put forward high requirements for chemical batteries. Every breakthrough in chemical battery technology has brought about a revolutionary development of electronic devices. Many electrochemistry scientists around the world have focused their research interests on the field of chemical batteries as the power source for electric vehicles.

[0003] As a type of chemical battery, a lithium-ion battery has the advantages of small size, high energy density, high power density, many cycle usage times, and long storage time, and has been widely used in some electronic devices, electric vehicles, electric toys, and electric equipment. For example, lithium-ion batteries are currently widely used in mobile phones, laptop computers, battery cars, electric vehicles, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes, and electric tools, and so on.

[0004] With the continuous development of lithium-ion battery technology, higher requirements are put forward for the performance of lithium-ion batteries. It is hoped that lithium-ion batteries can consider multiple design factors at the same time. Among them, the electrical connection structure between battery cells usually uses a busbar component with relatively high rigidity for welding connection. The busbar component is an independently manufactured structural part, and at least two weldings are required with the electrode terminals of the battery cell to complete the electrical connection. Such an electrical connection structure is relatively complex, and setting the busbar component will also bring various risks, affecting the electrical conductivity between battery cells. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a battery, an electrical device, a method and equipment for preparing a battery to simplify the electrical connection structure between battery cells.

[0006] According to the first aspect of this application, a battery is provided, including:

[0007] A plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction, each battery cell is provided with a plate-shaped electrode terminal on an end face along the first direction, and there are two electrode terminals between two end faces of two battery cells arranged opposite to each other along the first direction;

[0008] Wherein, along the thickness direction of the electrode terminal, the two electrode terminals are configured to be at least partially stacked and fixedly connected between the two end faces to realize the electrical connection of the two battery cells.

[0009] By arranging the end faces of two battery cells opposite to each other in the first direction, the battery cells can be electrically connected to each other in a flat-laying manner, and multiple battery cells can be accommodated according to the internal installation space of the vehicle in the height direction, making full use of the internal installation space of the vehicle. The two electrode terminals are fixedly connected in a partially stacked manner, eliminating the busbar component, simplifying the electrical connection structure between the battery cells, reducing various risks brought by setting the busbar component, ensuring the reliability of the electrical conductivity between the battery cells, reducing the manufacturing cost of the battery, and improving the production efficiency of the battery.

[0010] In some embodiments, the electrode terminal includes:

[0011] A stacking portion for realizing the stacking of the two electrode terminals;

[0012] An extension portion for connecting with the stacking portion, and the extension portion extends a preset length from the end face.

[0013] By setting the electrode terminal into two parts with different functions configured, the stacking portion is used for fixed connection, and the extension portion is used for electrically connecting the stacking portion with the internal components of the battery cell, thus facilitating the design and manufacture of the electrode terminal and the electrical connection between the electrode terminals.

[0014] In some embodiments, the ratio of the preset length to the length of the stacking portion along the first direction is 0.25-1.

[0015] If the length of the extension portion is too small, the stacking portion will be very close to the end face of the battery cell, which is not convenient for the fixed connection between the stacking portions. If the length of the extension portion is too long, the electrode terminal is likely to occupy too much space between the end faces of the battery cells. By limiting the ratio of the length of the extension portion to the length of the stacking portion, it is convenient for the fixed connection between the stacking portions and also avoids the electrode terminal from occupying too much space between the end faces of the battery cells, further optimizing the electrical connection structure of the battery cell.

[0016] In some embodiments, the electrode terminal further includes a connecting portion for connecting the stacking portion and the extension portion to make the stacking portion and the extension portion stagger in the thickness direction.

[0017] Since the positions of the electrode terminals on the end face are usually the same, if the end faces of two battery cells are arranged opposite to each other, interference will inevitably occur when the electrode terminals are stacked. To avoid this interference, the stacked portion and the extended portion are arranged to be offset in the thickness direction and have different heights, which facilitates the stacked arrangement of the electrode terminals. When the electrode terminals approach each other, they will avoid each other and form a stacked relationship. The electrode terminals are usually made by stamping, and the stacked portion, the connecting portion, and the extended portion can be integrally formed, which is convenient for manufacturing.

[0018] In some embodiments, the offset distance between the stacked portion and the extended portion is not greater than 1 / 2 of the thickness of the electrode terminal.

[0019] If the offset distance between the stacked portion and the extended portion is greater than 1 / 2 of the thickness of the electrode terminal, the stacked portions of the two electrode terminals will be separated from each other in the natural state, which is not conducive to fixed connection. When the offset distance between the stacked portion and the extended portion is equal to or less than 1 / 2 of the thickness of the electrode terminal, the stacked portions can be in contact.

[0020] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the connecting portion is linear or arc-shaped.

[0021] The cross-sectional shape of the connecting portion can be various, as long as it can achieve the offset arrangement of the stacked portion and the extended portion in the thickness direction. Both the linear shape and the arc-shaped shape are within the applicable range, and the connection strength can meet the design requirements.

[0022] In some embodiments, the electrode terminal is in the shape of a flat plate, and the two electrode terminals of the two battery cells arranged opposite to each other along the first direction are offset in the thickness direction.

[0023] By arranging the two electrode terminals of each battery cell at different positions on the end face, when the electrode terminals approach each other, they will avoid each other and form a stacked relationship, and the electrode terminals do not need to be stamped into special shapes. Such a design can simplify the structure of the electrode terminals.

[0024] In some embodiments, the stacked portion includes a first stacked portion and a second stacked portion separated from each other along the second direction, and the second direction is perpendicular to the thickness direction.

[0025] By providing the first stacked portion and the second stacked portion, the diversity of the stacked portion can be increased, and the types of fixed connection structures between the stacked portions can be expanded.

[0026] In some embodiments, along the second direction, the ratio of the gap between the first stacked portion and the second stacked portion to the width of the stacked portion is 0 - 1 / 3.

[0027] The first stacked portion and the second stacked portion may be adjacent or non - adjacent. When they are non - adjacent, there is a gap between the first stacked portion and the second stacked portion. If this gap is greater than 1 / 3 of the width of the stacked portion, the stacked portions are likely to be separated under the influence of external forces after being fixedly connected. By restricting the width of this gap, the stability of the connection structure between the stacked portions is ensured.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first stacked portion and the second stacked portion are arranged in a staggered manner along the thickness direction.

[0029] By arranging the first stacked portion and the second stacked portion in a staggered manner, the two fixedly - connected stacked portions can not only limit each other in the thickness direction but also in the width direction, improving the stability of the connection structure between the stacked portions.

[0030] In some embodiments, the staggering distance between the first stacked portion and the second stacked portion is not less than the thickness of the electrode terminal.

[0031] If the staggering distance between the first stacked portion and the second stacked portion is less than the thickness of the electrode terminal, the two stacked portions will interfere with each other and cannot be stacked in an interleaved manner. When the staggering distance between the first stacked portion and the second stacked portion is equal to or greater than the thickness of the electrode terminal, the two stacked portions can be stacked in an interleaved manner.

[0032] In some embodiments, two adjacent stacked portions are configured to stack the two electrode terminals in a mutually - engaging manner.

[0033] By providing stacked portions that can be mutually - engaged, the connection strength between the stacked portions can be improved. Especially when the battery cell is vibrated, the stacked portions are not easily separated, ensuring the reliability of the electrical connection between the battery cells.

[0034] In some embodiments, one of two adjacent stacked portions includes an insertion portion, and the other includes a receiving portion, and the receiving portion is configured to receive the insertion portion so that the two adjacent stacked portions are mutually - engaged.

[0035] There are various types of structures that can be engaged. The structures of the insertion portion and the receiving portion are easy to manufacture and form, and can be engaged very conveniently.

[0036] In some embodiments, the stacked portion is configured to be bent toward the end face along the first direction to form the insertion portion and the receiving portion.

[0037] The stacked portion is bent toward the end face of the battery cell, and the stacked portion can form a hook - like shape. In addition to being stacked, it can also be hooked, further improving the connection strength between the stacked portions.

[0038] In some embodiments, the stacked portion further includes a main body portion for connecting the extending portion and the inserting portion. The main body portion and the inserting portion are disposed opposite to each other in the thickness direction and have a gap therebetween to form the accommodating portion.

[0039] The fitting structure formed in this way is easy to manufacture and mold, and the space of the accommodating portion is relatively large, enhancing the strength of the fitting structure.

[0040] According to a second aspect of the present application, there is provided an electrical device, which includes the battery described in the first aspect above, and the battery is used to supply electrical energy to the device.

[0041] According to a third aspect of the present application, there is provided a method for manufacturing a battery, including:

[0042] providing a plurality of battery cells arranged in a first direction, each battery cell having a plate-shaped electrode terminal disposed on an end face in the first direction, and there are two electrode terminals between two end faces of two battery cells arranged opposite to each other in the first direction;

[0043] along the thickness direction of the electrode terminal, the two electrode terminals are configured to be at least partially stacked and fixedly connected between the two end faces to realize electrical connection of the two battery cells.

[0044] According to a fourth aspect of the present application, there is provided a device for manufacturing a battery, including:

[0045] a battery cell manufacturing module for manufacturing a plurality of battery cells, each battery cell having a plate-shaped electrode terminal disposed on an end face in a first direction, and there are two electrode terminals between two end faces of two battery cells arranged opposite to each other in the first direction;

[0046] an assembly module for electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells. Along the thickness direction of the electrode terminal, the two electrode terminals are configured to be at least partially stacked and fixedly connected between the two end faces to realize electrical connection of the two battery cells. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] The drawings described herein are used to provide a further understanding of the present application, and constitute a part of the present application. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions thereof of the present application are used to explain the present application and do not constitute an improper limitation to the present application. In the drawings:

[0048] Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0049] Figure 2 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the series connection state of a plurality of battery cells according to some embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0050] Figure 3 Shows a front view schematic diagram of the series connection state of a plurality of battery cells according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0051] Figure 4 Shows Figure 3 An enlarged view of part A shown in

[0052] Figure 5 Shows a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the electrode terminals of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0053] Figure 6 Shows a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the connection state of the electrode terminals of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0054] Figure 7 Shows a front view schematic diagram of the connection state of the electrode terminals of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0055] Figure 8 Shows a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the electrode terminals of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0056] Figure 9 Shows a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the connection state of the electrode terminals of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0057] Figure 10 Shows a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the electrode terminals of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0058] Figure 11 Shows a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the electrode terminals of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0059] Figure 12 Shows a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the connection state of the electrode terminals of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0060] Figure 13 Shows an exploded schematic diagram of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0061] Figure 14 Shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0062] Figure 15 Shows Figure 14 An enlarged partial view of the battery cell shown in (observed by rotating 90 degrees);

[0063] Figure 16 Shows a schematic structural diagram of some embodiments of a vehicle using the battery of the present application;

[0064] Figure 17 The flowchart shows a method for preparing a battery according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0065] Figure 18 The structural diagram shows a device for preparing a battery according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0066] Description of reference numerals: 1, vehicle; 10, battery; 30, controller; 40, motor; 2, battery cell; 201, housing; 202, electrode assembly; 203, connecting member; 204, adhesive tape; 205, top cover assembly; 2051, end cover; 2052, seal; 2053, electrode terminal; 20531, first electrode terminal; 20532, second electrode terminal; 2054, mounting hole; 2055, extension; 2056, laminated portion; 20561, insertion portion; 20562, accommodating portion; 20563, main body portion; 2057, first laminated portion; 2058, second laminated portion; 2059, gap; 2060, tail; 2061, connecting portion; 3, device for preparing a battery; 301, battery cell preparation module; 302, assembly module. Detailed implementation manners

[0067] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present application clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the drawings showing multiple embodiments of the present application. It should be understood that the described embodiments are only some of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all of them. Based on the embodiments described in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0068] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application belongs; the terms used in the description of this application in the specification are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this application; the terms "comprising", "including", "having", "containing", "including", etc. in the description and claims of this application and the above drawings are open-ended terms. Therefore, a method or device "comprising", "including", "having" one or more steps or elements has one or more steps or elements, but is not limited to only having these one or more elements. The terms "first", "second", etc. in the description and claims of this application or the above drawings are used to distinguish different objects and are not used to describe a specific order or primary-secondary relationship. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, the meaning of "a plurality" is two or more.

[0069] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "center", "lateral", "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and thus cannot be understood as a limitation to this application.

[0070] In the description of this application, it should be noted that unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected", "connected", "attached" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be directly connected, or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it can be the communication inside two elements. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific situations.

[0071] Referring to "embodiments" in this application means that specific features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiments can be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various positions in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. Those skilled in the art explicitly and implicitly understand that the embodiments described in this application can be combined with other embodiments.

[0072] As described above, it should be emphasized that when the term "comprising / including" is used in this specification, it is used to clearly indicate the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, parts or groups of features, integers, steps, parts. As used in this application, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0073] The term "a" or "an" in this specification may mean one, but may also be consistent with the meaning of "at least one" or "one or more". The term "about" generally means plus or minus 10% of the recited value, or more specifically plus or minus 5%. The term "or" used in the claims means "and / or" unless clearly indicated otherwise to refer only to alternative scenarios.

[0074] The term "and / or" in this application is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship.

[0075] The batteries mentioned in this field can be classified into primary batteries and rechargeable batteries according to whether they can be recharged. Primary batteries are commonly known as "disposable" batteries and primary cells. After their power is exhausted, they cannot be recharged and used again and can only be discarded. Rechargeable batteries are also called secondary batteries or accumulators. The manufacturing materials and processes of rechargeable batteries are different from those of primary batteries. Their advantage is that they can be used repeatedly after charging. The output current load capacity of rechargeable batteries is higher than that of most primary batteries. Currently, the common types of rechargeable batteries are: lead-acid batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries and lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries have the advantages of light weight, large capacity (the capacity is 1.5 to 2 times that of nickel-metal hydride batteries of the same weight), no memory effect, etc., and have a very low self-discharge rate. Therefore, even though the price is relatively high, they are still widely used. Lithium-ion batteries are also used in pure electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles. For this purpose, the capacity of lithium-ion batteries is relatively slightly lower, but they have a larger output and charging current, and some also have a longer lifespan, but the cost is higher.

[0076] The battery described in the embodiments of the present application refers to a rechargeable battery. Hereinafter, the concept of the present application will be mainly described by taking a lithium-ion battery as an example. It should be understood that any other suitable type of rechargeable battery is applicable. The battery mentioned in the embodiments of the present application refers to a single physical module including one or more battery cells to provide a higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery mentioned in the present application may include a battery module or a battery pack, etc. A battery cell includes a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, an electrolyte, and a separator, and is the basic structural unit constituting a battery module and a battery pack. Generally, battery cells are divided into three types according to the encapsulation method: cylindrical battery cells, square battery cells, and soft-pack battery cells.

[0077] A lithium-ion battery cell mainly operates by the movement of lithium ions between the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate. A lithium-ion battery cell uses an embedded lithium compound as an electrode material. Currently, the common positive electrode materials used in lithium-ion batteries mainly include: lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), lithium manganate (LiMn2O4), lithium nickelate (LiNiO2), and lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4). A separator is provided between the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate to form a thin film structure with three layers of materials. This thin film structure is generally made into an electrode assembly of a required shape by winding or stacking. For example, the thin film structure with three layers of materials in a cylindrical battery cell is wound into an electrode assembly in a cylindrical shape, while the thin film structure in a square battery cell is wound or stacked into an electrode assembly with a generally cuboid shape.

[0078] Multiple battery cells can be connected in series and / or in parallel via electrode terminals for various application scenarios. In some high-power application scenarios such as electric vehicles, the application of the battery includes three levels: battery cells, battery modules, and battery packs. A battery module is formed by electrically connecting a certain number of battery cells together and placing them in a frame to protect the battery cells from external impacts, heat, vibration, etc. A battery pack is the final state of the battery system installed in an electric vehicle. Currently, most battery packs are made by assembling various control and protection systems such as a battery management system (BMS) and a thermal management component on one or more battery modules. With the development of technology, the level of the battery module can be omitted, that is, a battery pack is directly formed by battery cells. This improvement enables the weight energy density and volume energy density of the battery system to be increased while the number of components is significantly reduced. The battery mentioned in the present application includes a battery module or a battery pack.

[0079] Aiming at the problem that the existing battery cells are usually welded and connected by a busbar component with relatively high rigidity, the electrical connection structure is relatively complex and has many risks. The present application simplifies the electrical connection structure between battery cells and reduces various risks brought by setting the busbar component by directly fixedly connecting the electrode terminals of the battery cells to achieve the electrical connection of two battery cells.

[0080] For a better understanding of the present application, the following will describe the embodiments of the present application in detail in conjunction with Figures 1 to 18 the following content.

[0081] As Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 shown, a battery 10 according to an embodiment of the present application includes:

[0082] A plurality of battery cells 2 arranged along the first direction X, and each battery cell 2 is provided with a plate-shaped electrode terminal 2053 on the end face along the first direction X. There are two electrode terminals 2053 between the two end faces of two battery cells 2 arranged opposite to each other along the first direction X;

[0083] Wherein, along the thickness direction Z of the electrode terminal, the two electrode terminals 2053 are configured to be at least partially stacked and fixedly connected between the two end faces to realize the electrical connection of the two battery cells 2.

[0084] In this embodiment, the first direction X is the axial direction of the battery cell 2 after being fixed in the battery 10, or the length direction of the battery cell 2 after being fixed in the battery 10.

[0085] The battery cell 2 can be in a prismatic shape, a cylindrical shape, etc. The electrode terminal 2053 in this embodiment is applicable to these different-shaped battery cells 2. The cross-section of the electrode terminal 2053 is rectangular, and the cross-section has a large aspect ratio, so the electrode terminal 2053 is plate-shaped.

[0086] Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 In Figure 4 shown, a column of battery cells 2 is taken as an example. There are two electrode terminals 2053 between the two end faces of two battery cells 2 arranged opposite to each other along the first direction X, namely the first electrode terminal 20531 and the second electrode terminal 20532. The first electrode terminal 20531 and the second electrode terminal 20532 are partially stacked and fixedly connected along the thickness direction Z, as

[0087] By arranging the end faces of two battery cells 2 opposite to each other in the first direction X, the battery cells 2 can be electrically connected to each other in a flat-laying manner. In the height direction, multiple battery cells 2 can be accommodated according to the internal installation space of the vehicle, making full use of the internal installation space of the vehicle. The two electrode terminals 2 are fixedly connected in a partially laminated manner, eliminating the need for a busbar component, simplifying the electrical connection structure between the battery cells 2, reducing various risks brought by the installation of the busbar component, ensuring the reliability of the electrical conductivity between the battery cells 2, reducing the manufacturing cost of the battery 10, and improving the production efficiency of the battery 10.

[0088] In some embodiments, the electrode terminal 2053 includes:

[0089] A lamination portion 2056 for achieving the laminated arrangement of two electrode terminals 2053;

[0090] An extension portion 2055 for connecting with the lamination portion 2056, and the extension portion 2055 extends a preset length from the end face.

[0091] As Figure 5 , Figure 6 shown, the two electrode terminals 2053 are partially laminated and fixedly connected along the thickness direction Z, and are fixedly superimposed through the lamination portion 2056. The extension portion 2055 is connected to the lamination portion 2056. Combining Figure 4 it can be known that the extension portion 2055 extends a preset length from the end face of the battery cell 2.

[0092] By setting the electrode terminal 2053 into two parts, the two parts are configured with different functions. The lamination portion 2056 is used for fixed connection, and the extension portion 2055 is used to electrically connect the lamination portion 2056 with the internal components of the battery cell 2, thereby facilitating the design and manufacture of the electrode terminal 2053 and also facilitating the electrical connection between the electrode terminals 2053.

[0093] In some embodiments, the ratio of the preset length along the first direction X to the length of the lamination portion 2056 is 0.25 - 1.

[0094] As Figure 4 shown, the extension portion 2055 extends a preset length B from the end face. B is the distance along the first direction X from the end face of the battery cell 2 to the boundary line between the extension portion 2055 and the connection portion 2061 (described below). The length of the lamination portion 2056 is C. C is the distance along the first direction X from the boundary line between the connection portion 2061 and the lamination portion 2056 to the end face of the lamination portion 2056. In this embodiment, the ratio of B to C is 0.25 - 1, which facilitates the fixed connection between the lamination portions 2056 and also avoids the electrode terminal 2053 occupying too much space between the end faces of the battery cell 2.

[0095] If the length of the extension portion 2055 is too small, the stacked portion 2056 will be very close to the end face of the battery cell 2, which is not convenient for the fixed connection between the stacked portions 2056. If the length of the extension portion 2055 is too long, the electrode terminal 2053 is likely to occupy too much space between the end faces of the battery cell 2. By restricting the ratio of the length of the extension portion 2055 to the length of the stacked portion 2056, it is convenient for the fixed connection between the stacked portions 2056, and it also avoids the electrode terminal 2053 from occupying too much space between the end faces of the battery cell 2, further optimizing the electrical connection structure of the battery cell 2.

[0096] In some embodiments, the electrode terminal 2053 further includes a connecting portion 2061 for connecting the stacked portion 2056 and the extension portion 2055, so that the stacked portion 2056 and the extension portion 2055 are arranged in a staggered manner along the thickness direction Z. Usually, the thicknesses of the stacked portion 2056 and the extension portion 2055 are equal and both are equal to the thickness of the electrode terminal 2053.

[0097] As Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 shown, a connecting portion 2061 is provided between the stacked portion 2056 and the extension portion 2055. The stacked portion 2056 and the extension portion 2055 can be regarded as parallel. One end of the stacked portion 2056 connected by the connecting portion 2061 and the other end of the extension portion 2055 are at different heights, so that the stacked portion 2056 and the extension portion 2055 are arranged in a staggered manner along the thickness direction Z.

[0098] Because usually the positions of the electrode terminals 2053 on the end face of the battery cell 2 are the same, if the end faces of two battery cells 2 are arranged opposite to each other, interference will surely occur when the electrode terminals 2053 are stacked. To avoid this interference, the stacked portion 2056 and the extension portion 2055 are arranged in a staggered manner along the thickness direction Z, that is, they have different heights, which facilitates the stacked arrangement of the electrode terminals 2053. When the electrode terminals 2053 approach each other, they will avoid each other and form a stacked relationship. The electrode terminal 2053 is usually made by stamping, and the stacked portion 2056, the connecting portion 2061, and the extension portion 2055 can be integrally formed, which is convenient for manufacturing.

[0099] In some embodiments, the misalignment distance between the stacked portion 2056 and the extension portion 2055 is not greater than 1 / 2 of the thickness of the electrode terminal 2053.

[0100] As Figure 4As shown, the misalignment distance between the stacked portion 2056 and the extended portion 2055 is D. D is the distance from the lower surface of the extended portion 2055 to the lower surface of the stacked portion 2056 along the thickness direction Z, or the distance from the upper surface of the extended portion 2055 to the upper surface of the stacked portion 2056 along the thickness direction Z. The thickness of the electrode terminal 2053 is E. E is the distance from the upper surface to the lower surface of the electrode terminal 2053 along the thickness direction Z. In this embodiment, the ratio of D to E is 0 - 1 / 2, ensuring that the stacked portions 2056 can be in contact and fixedly connected.

[0101] If the misalignment distance between the stacked portion 2056 and the extended portion 2055 is greater than 1 / 2 of the thickness of the electrode terminal 2053, the stacked portions 2056 of the two electrode terminals 2053 will be separated from each other in the natural state, which is not conducive to fixed connection. When the misalignment distance between the stacked portion 2056 and the extended portion 2055 is equal to or less than 1 / 2 of the thickness of the electrode terminal 2053, the stacked portions 2056 can all be in contact.

[0102] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the connecting portion 2061 is linear or arc-shaped.

[0103] As Figure 4 shown, the cross-sectional shape of the connecting portion 2061 is arc-shaped. As Figure 5 、 Figure 6 shown, the cross-sectional shape of the connecting portion 2061 is linear. The thickness of the connecting portion 2061 is equal to the thickness of the electrode terminal 2053.

[0104] The cross-sectional shape of the connecting portion 2061 can be various, as long as the stacked portion 2056 and the extended portion 2055 can be misaligned along the thickness direction Z. Both the linear shape and the arc-shaped shape are within the applicable range, and the connection strength can meet the design requirements.

[0105] In some embodiments, the electrode terminal 2053 is in the shape of a flat plate, and the two electrode terminals 2053 disposed opposite each other along the first direction X of the two battery cells 2 are misaligned along the thickness direction Z.

[0106] As Figure 7 shown, the first electrode terminal 20531 and the second electrode terminal 20532 are partially overlapped. Each electrode terminal 2053 can be regarded as still including a stacked portion 2056 and an extended portion 2055. However, the stacked portion 2056 and the extended portion 2055 are no longer misaligned. Instead, by setting the two electrode terminals 2053 at different positions on the end face of the battery cell 2, the two electrode terminals 2053 are partially stacked.

[0107] By arranging the two electrode terminals 2053 of each battery cell 2 at different positions on the end face, when the electrode terminals 2053 approach each other, they will avoid each other and form a stacked relationship, so that the electrode terminals 2053 do not need to be stamped into special shapes, and this design can simplify the structure of the electrode terminals 2053. It should be noted that the straight electrode terminals 2053 will still include tails 2060 (specifically described below).

[0108] In some embodiments, the stacked portion 2056 includes a first stacked portion 2057 and a second stacked portion 2058 that are separated from each other along the second direction Y, and the second direction Y is perpendicular to the thickness direction Z.

[0109] As Figure 8 、 Figure 9 、 Figure 10 shown, the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 are two independent parts, Figure 8 、 Figure 9 in, the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 are adjacent, that is, there is no gap or a very small gap between them along the second direction Y; Figure 10 in, the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 are not adjacent, that is, there is a large gap between them along the second direction Y.

[0110] By arranging the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058, the diversity of the stacked portion 2056 can be increased, and the types of fixed connection structures between the stacked portions 2056 can be extended.

[0111] In some embodiments, along the second direction Y, the ratio of the gap 2059 between the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 to the width of the stacked portion 2056 is 0-1 / 3.

[0112] As Figure 10 shown, there is a gap 2059 between the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058, the width of the gap 2059 is F, F is the distance between two adjacent side faces of the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 along the second direction Y, the width of the stacked portion 2056 is G, G is the distance between two side faces of the stacked portion 2056 along the second direction Y, and in this embodiment, the ratio of F to G is 0-1 / 3, ensuring the stability of the connection structure between the stacked portions 2056.

[0113] If the gap 2059 is greater than 1 / 3 of the width of the stacked portion 2056, the stacked area between the stacked portions 2056 is small, and it is easy to be separated by external forces after fixed connection. By restricting the width of the gap 2059, the stability of the connection structure between the stacked portions 2056 is ensured.

[0114] In some embodiments, the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 are arranged with a displacement in the thickness direction Z.

[0115] As Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 shown, the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 can be regarded as parallel to each other and located at different heights.

[0116] By arranging the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 with a displacement, the two fixedly connected stacked portions 2056 can not only limit each other in the thickness direction Z, but also limit each other in the width direction (i.e., the second direction Y), improving the stability of the connection structure between the stacked portions 2056.

[0117] In some embodiments, the displacement distance between the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 is not less than the thickness of the electrode terminal 2053.

[0118] As Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 shown, the displacement distance between the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 is H, where H is the distance in the thickness direction Z from the upper surface of the first stacked portion 2057 to the upper surface of the second stacked portion 2058, and the thickness of the electrode terminal 2053 is E, where E is the distance in the thickness direction Z from the upper surface to the lower surface of the electrode terminal 2053. In this embodiment, H is equal to or greater than E, ensuring that the two stacked portions 2056 can be stacked in an interleaved manner.

[0119] If the displacement distance between the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 is less than the thickness of the electrode terminal 2053, interference will occur between the two stacked portions 2056 and they cannot be stacked in an interleaved manner. When the displacement distance between the first stacked portion 2057 and the second stacked portion 2058 is equal to or greater than the thickness of the electrode terminal 2053, the two stacked portions 2056 can be stacked in an interleaved manner.

[0120] In some embodiments, two adjacent stacked portions 2056 are configured to stack the two electrode terminals 2053 in a mutually engaging manner.

[0121] As Figure 11 , Figure 12 shown, there is not only a stacking relationship but also an engaging relationship between the two stacked portions 2056, and at the same time, there are multiple connection relationships.

[0122] By providing overlapping portions 2056 that can be mutually engaged, the connection strength between the overlapping portions 2056 can be increased. In particular, when the battery cell 2 is vibrated, the overlapping portions 2056 are not easily separated, ensuring the reliability of the electrical connection between the battery cells 2.

[0123] In some embodiments, one of two adjacent overlapping portions 2056 includes an insertion portion 20561, and the other includes a receiving portion 20562. The receiving portion 20562 is configured to receive the insertion portion 20561 so that the two adjacent overlapping portions 2056 are mutually engaged.

[0124] As Figure 11 、 Figure 12 shown, both of the two overlapping portions 2056 include an insertion portion 20561 and a receiving portion 20562. The insertion portion 20561 of one overlapping portion 2056 is inserted into the receiving portion 20562 of the other overlapping portion 2056, forming a mutually engaged relationship.

[0125] There are various types of structures that can be engaged. For example, protrusions and grooves along the thickness direction Z can be provided on the overlapping portion 2056, and the protrusions and grooves are mutually engaged. The structures of the insertion portion 20561 and the receiving portion 20562 are easily manufactured and formed, and can be very conveniently engaged.

[0126] In some embodiments, the overlapping portion 2056 is configured to be bent toward the end face along the first direction X to form the insertion portion 20561 and the receiving portion 20562.

[0127] As Figure 11 、 Figure 12 shown, each overlapping portion 2056 is bent toward the end face of the battery cell 2 where it is located, thereby forming the insertion portion 20561 and the receiving portion 20562.

[0128] When the overlapping portion 2056 is bent toward the end face of the battery cell 2, the overlapping portion 2056 can form a hook shape. In addition to being stacked, it can also be hooked, further increasing the connection strength between the overlapping portions 2056.

[0129] In some embodiments, the overlapping portion 2056 further includes a main body portion 20563 for connecting the extension portion 2055 and the insertion portion 20561. The main body portion 20563 and the insertion portion 20561 are disposed opposite to each other along the thickness direction Z and have a gap to form the receiving portion 20562.

[0130] As Figure 11 、 Figure 12 shown, the main body portion 20563 and the insertion portion 20561 can be regarded as parallel to each other and located at different heights.

[0131] The formed chimeric structure is easy to manufacture and mold, and the accommodating portion 20562 has a relatively large space, enhancing the strength of the chimeric structure.

[0132] The electrode terminals 2053 are arranged in the battery cell 2 as Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 shown. The battery cell 2 includes:

[0133] A housing 201 with openings provided at both ends along the first direction X;

[0134] An electrode assembly 202 disposed inside the housing 201;

[0135] Two electrode terminals 2053 respectively disposed at both ends of the battery cell 2 along the first direction X;

[0136] Two connecting members 203 disposed inside the housing 201 and respectively disposed at both ends of the electrode assembly 202 for electrically connecting the electrode assembly 202 and the electrode terminals 2053;

[0137] Two end caps 2051 respectively disposed at the openings of the housing 201 for sealing the housing 201.

[0138] In the embodiment of the present application, the end face of the battery cell 2 refers to the outer end face of the end cap 2051.

[0139] As Figure 14 shown, the structures of the two electrode terminals 2053 are the same, but they face different directions at both ends of the battery cell 2. The two electrode terminals 2053 each include a stacked portion 2056, an extension portion 2055, and a tail portion 2060. Among them, the stacked portion 2056 is located outside the housing 201, the extension portion 2055 passes through the end cap 2051, and the tail portion 2060 is located inside the housing 201 for electrically connecting with the connecting member 203.

[0140] As Figure 15 shown, an installation hole 2054 is provided in the middle of the end cap 2051, and the extension portion 2055 passes through the installation hole 2054. A seal 2052 is provided at the position corresponding to the installation hole 2054 for sealing the gap between the extension portion 2055 and the installation hole 2054. The seal 2052 can be made by nano-injection molding process.

[0141] According to the second aspect of the embodiments of the present application, an electrical device is provided. The device includes the battery 10 described in the first aspect above, and the battery 10 is used to provide electrical energy for the device.

[0142] It can be understood that the battery 10 described in the embodiments of the present application is applicable to various devices using the battery 10, such as mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, battery cars, electric vehicles, ships, spacecrafts, electric toys, and electric tools, etc. For example, spacecrafts include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spaceships, etc. Electric toys include fixed or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric vehicle toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Electric tools include metal cutting electric tools, grinding electric tools, assembly electric tools, and railway electric tools, such as electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, impact electric drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers.

[0143] The battery 10 described in the embodiments of the present application is not limited to the devices described above, but can also be applicable to all devices using the battery 10. However, for the sake of brief description, the following embodiments will be described by taking an electric vehicle as an example.

[0144] For example, as Figure 16 shown, it is a simple schematic diagram of a vehicle 1 in this embodiment. The vehicle 1 can be a fuel vehicle, a gas vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. The new energy vehicle can be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid electric vehicle, or an extended-range electric vehicle, etc. As Figure 16 shown, the battery 10 can be arranged inside the vehicle 1. For example, the battery 10 can be arranged at the bottom, the front end, or the rear end of the vehicle 1. The battery 10 can be used for power supply of the vehicle 1. For example, the battery 10 can be used as the operating power source of the vehicle 1. And the vehicle 1 can also include a controller 30 and a motor 40. The controller 30 is used to control the power supply of the battery 10 to the motor 40. For example, it is used for the working power requirements during the start, navigation, and driving of the vehicle 1. In another embodiment of the present application, the battery 10 can not only be used as the operating power source of the vehicle 1, but also be used as the driving power source of the vehicle 1, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1.

[0145] As Figure 16 shown, the battery cells 2 can be electrically connected to each other in a flat-laying manner, and in the height direction, a plurality of battery cells 2 can be accommodated according to the internal installation space of the vehicle 1, making full use of the internal installation space of the vehicle 1, facilitating the assembly of the vehicle 1, and at the same time increasing the capacity of the battery 10 carried by the vehicle 1.

[0146] According to the third aspect of the embodiments of the present application, a method for preparing a battery is provided. As Figure 17 shown, it includes:

[0147] Step S1: Provide a plurality of battery cells 2 arranged along a first direction X. Each battery cell 2 is provided with a plate-shaped electrode terminal 2053 on an end face along the first direction X. There are two electrode terminals 2053 between two end faces of two battery cells 2 arranged opposite to each other along the first direction X.

[0148] Step S2: Along the thickness direction Z of the electrode terminal 2053, the two electrode terminals 2053 are configured to be at least partially stacked and fixedly connected between the two end faces to realize electrical connection of the two battery cells 2.

[0149] For parts not described in detail in this embodiment, reference may be made to the foregoing embodiments.

[0150] According to a fourth aspect of the embodiments of the present application, there is provided a device 3 for preparing a battery, as Figure 18 shown, including:

[0151] A battery cell preparation module 301 for preparing a plurality of battery cells 2. Each battery cell 2 is provided with a plate-shaped electrode terminal 2053 on an end face along the first direction X. There are two electrode terminals 2053 between two end faces of two battery cells 2 arranged opposite to each other along the first direction X.

[0152] An assembly module 302 for electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells 2. Along the thickness direction Z of the electrode terminal 2053, the two electrode terminals 2053 are configured to be at least partially stacked and fixedly connected between the two end faces to realize electrical connection of the two battery cells 2.

[0153] For parts not described in detail in this embodiment, reference may be made to the foregoing embodiments.

[0154] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, and are not intended to limit them; although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or perform equivalent replacements for some of the technical features, but these modifications or replacements do not make the essence of the corresponding technical solutions deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A battery, characterized in that, Comprising: A plurality of battery cells (2) arranged along a first direction (X), each of the battery cells (2) having a plate-shaped electrode terminal (2053) provided on an end face along the first direction (X), and there being two of the electrode terminals (2053) between two end faces of two of the battery cells (2) arranged opposite to each other along the first direction (X); Wherein, along the thickness direction (Z) of the electrode terminal (2053), the two electrode terminals (2053) are configured to be at least partially stacked and fixedly connected between the two end faces to achieve electrical connection of the two battery cells (2); The electrode terminal (2053) includes a stacked portion (2056) for achieving stacking of the two electrode terminals (2053); The stacked portion (2056) includes a first stacked portion (2057) and a second stacked portion (2058) separated from each other along a second direction (Y), the second direction (Y) being perpendicular to the thickness direction (Z); The first stacked portion (2057) and the second stacked portion (2058) are arranged offset along the thickness direction (Z).

2. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrode terminal (2053) includes: An extension portion (2055) for connecting with the stacked portion (2056), the extension portion (2055) protruding from the end face by a preset length.

3. The battery according to claim 2, characterized in that, Along the first direction (X), the ratio of the preset length to the length of the stacked portion (2056) is 0.25 - 1.

4. The battery according to claim 2, characterized in that, The electrode terminal (2053) further includes a connection portion (2061) for connecting the stacked portion (2056) and the extension portion (2055) so that the stacked portion (2056) and the extension portion (2055) are arranged offset along the thickness direction (Z).

5. The battery according to claim 4, characterized in that, The offset distance between the stacked portion (2056) and the extension portion (2055) is not greater than 1 / 2 the thickness of the electrode terminal (2053).

6. The battery according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cross-sectional shape of the connection portion (2061) is linear or arc-shaped.

7. The battery according to claim 1, wherein The electrode terminal (2053) is in the shape of a flat plate, and the two electrode terminals (2053) of two of the battery cells (2) arranged opposite to each other along the first direction (X) are arranged offset along the thickness direction (Z).

8. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the second direction (Y), the ratio of the gap (2059) between the first stacked portion (2057) and the second stacked portion (2058) to the width of the stacked portion (2056) is 0 - 1 / 3.

9. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The offset distance between the first stacked portion (2057) and the second stacked portion (2058) is not less than the thickness of the electrode terminal (2053).

10. The battery according to claim 2, wherein Adjacent two of the stacked portions (2056) are configured to achieve stacking of the two electrode terminals (2053) in a mutually fitting manner.

11. The battery according to claim 10, characterized in that, One of adjacent two of the stacked portions (2056) includes an insertion portion (20561), and the other includes a receiving portion (20562), the receiving portion (20562) being configured to receive the insertion portion (20561) so that adjacent two of the stacked portions (2056) are mutually fitted.

12. The battery according to claim 11, wherein The laminated portion (2056) is configured to be bent toward the end face along the first direction (X) to form the insertion portion (20561) and the accommodation portion (20562).

13. The battery according to claim 12, characterized in that, The laminated portion further includes a main body portion (20563) for connecting the extension portion (2055) and the insertion portion (20561). The main body portion (20563) and the insertion portion (20561) are oppositely arranged along the thickness direction (Z) and have a gap therebetween to form the accommodation portion (20562).

14. An electrical device, characterized in that, Including the battery according to any one of claims 1-13, the battery is used for providing electric energy.

15. A method for preparing a battery, characterized in that, Including: Providing a plurality of battery cells (2) arranged along the first direction (X). Each battery cell (2) is provided with a plate-shaped electrode terminal (2053) on the end face along the first direction (X). There are two electrode terminals (2053) between the two end faces of two battery cells (2) arranged oppositely along the first direction (X). Along the thickness direction (Z) of the electrode terminal (2053), the two electrode terminals (2053) are configured to be at least partially laminated and fixedly connected between the two end faces to realize the electrical connection of the two battery cells (2). The electrode terminal (2053) includes a laminated portion (2056) for realizing the lamination of the two electrode terminals (2053). The laminated portion (2056) includes a first laminated portion (2057) and a second laminated portion (2058) separated from each other along the second direction (Y). The second direction (Y) is perpendicular to the thickness direction (Z). The first laminated portion (2057) and the second laminated portion (2058) are arranged in a staggered manner along the thickness direction (Z).

16. An apparatus for preparing a battery, characterized in that, Including: A battery cell preparation module (301) for preparing a plurality of battery cells (2). Each battery cell (2) is provided with a plate-shaped electrode terminal (2053) on the end face along the first direction (X). There are two electrode terminals (2053) between the two end faces of two battery cells (2) arranged oppositely along the first direction (X). An assembly module (302) for electrically connecting a plurality of battery cells (2). Along the thickness direction (Z) of the electrode terminal (2053), the two electrode terminals (2053) are configured to be at least partially laminated and fixedly connected between the two end faces to realize the electrical connection of the two battery cells (2). The electrode terminal (2053) includes a laminated portion (2056) for realizing the lamination of the two electrode terminals (2053). The laminated portion (2056) includes a first laminated portion (2057) and a second laminated portion (2058) separated from each other along the second direction (Y). The second direction (Y) is perpendicular to the thickness direction (Z). The first laminated portion (2057) and the second laminated portion (2058) are arranged in a staggered manner along the thickness direction (Z).

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