Battery, power consuming device, method of manufacturing battery, and device of manufacturing battery

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application provides a battery, a power consumption device, a method and a device for preparing the battery. The battery comprises: a battery unit comprising a plurality of battery monomers, the plurality of battery monomers are arranged along a first direction and are electrically connected to each other, each battery monomer comprises a tank body and two electrode terminals with opposite polarities, the two electrode terminals are arranged at two ends of the tank body along the first direction respectively, and at least one of the electrode terminals protrudes from the tank body in a direction away from the inside of the battery monomer; and a sampling piece, at least partially located between two adjacent battery monomers, and connected to the electrode terminal protruding from the tank body, for collecting signals of the connected battery monomers. The technical scheme of the embodiment of the present application can improve the energy density of the battery and enhance the safety of the battery.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the field of energy storage devices, and more particularly, to a battery, an electric device, a method for preparing a battery, and an apparatus for preparing a battery. BACKGROUND

[0002] Energy saving and emission reduction is the key to the sustainable development of the automobile industry. In this case, electric vehicles have become an important part of the sustainable development of the automobile industry due to their energy saving and environmental protection advantages. For electric vehicles, battery technology is an important factor for their development.

[0003] With the continuous development of battery technology, higher requirements are put forward for the performance of the battery, and it is hoped that the battery can consider multiple design factors at the same time. SUMMARY

[0004] The present application provides a battery, an electric device, a method for preparing a battery, and an apparatus for preparing a battery, which can improve the energy density of the battery and enhance the safety of the battery.

[0005] In a first aspect, a battery is provided, comprising: a battery unit comprising a plurality of battery monomers arranged along a first direction and electrically connected to each other, each battery monomer comprising a can body and two electrode terminals of opposite polarity, the two electrode terminals being respectively arranged at both ends of the can body along the first direction, and at least one of the electrode terminals protruding from the can body in a direction away from the interior of the battery monomer; and a sampling member at least partially located between two adjacent battery monomers and connected to the electrode terminal protruding from the can body, for signal acquisition of the connected battery monomer.

[0006] The technical solution of the present application embodiment uses a sampling member at least partially located between two adjacent battery monomers and connected to the electrode terminal to perform signal acquisition for a plurality of battery monomers arranged along a first direction and electrically connected to each other. Thereby, voltage or temperature signal acquisition of the battery monomer can be performed with a simple structure, and the safety state of the battery monomer can be monitored based on the acquired voltage or temperature signal. Moreover, since the sampling member is partially located between two battery monomers electrically connected to each other, the space occupied by the sampling member can be reduced, so as to improve the overall energy density.

[0007] In some embodiments, in the first direction, a gap is formed between the can bodies of two adjacent battery monomers, and a connecting portion of the sampling member is located in the gap, the connecting portion being used to connect the electrode terminal. Thereby, the space between the battery monomers which is vacant in itself can be effectively utilized to arrange the sampling member, so as to make the structure more compact and further improve the energy density of the battery.

[0008] In some embodiments, the connecting portion is connected to the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal. By collecting signals from the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal protruding from the can body instead of the end surface of the electrode terminal, the installation space of the sampling member can be further reduced, and the connection structure of the sampling member and the electrode terminal can be simplified.

[0009] In some embodiments, the connecting portion is elastic and is configured to deform to fit the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal to achieve surface contact with the electrode terminal in response to an external force. Since the connecting portion is elastic and can deform elastically to make surface contact with the electrode terminal under the action of an external force, the connecting portion can be self-adapted to closely fit the electrode terminal, thereby achieving stable electrical connection between the sampling member and the electrode terminal with a simple structure.

[0010] In some embodiments, the electrode terminal protruding from the can body is cylindrical, and the wrapping angle of the connecting portion to the electrode terminal is greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0011] In some embodiments, the connecting portion is clamped to the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal. That is, the connecting portion and the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal are electrically connected by clamping, thereby achieving stable electrical connection.

[0012] In some embodiments, the connecting portion completely fits the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal. When electrical connection is achieved by elastic deformation or clamping, by making the connecting portion completely fit the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal, the contact area of the two can be increased, and good electrical connection can be achieved more stably.

[0013] In some embodiments, in the first direction, the size of the connecting portion is the same as the size of the gap. Thus, the connecting portion can be conveniently positioned when the sampling member is installed, and has a certain holding and stabilizing effect on the two adjacent battery monomers, limiting the excessive relative movement between the two battery monomers and improving the structural stability.

[0014] In some embodiments, the size of the connecting portion in the first direction is greater than the size of the connecting portion in the thickness direction. Thus, the area of contact between the connecting portion and the electrode terminal can be increased, and the rigidity of the connecting portion will not be too large due to the excessive thickness of the connecting portion, and the connecting portion can easily deform elastically to clamp the electrode terminal.

[0015] In some embodiments, the wrapping size of the connecting portion to the electrode terminal is greater than or equal to 1 / 2 of the circumference of the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal and less than the circumference of the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal. Since the connecting portion is formed with an opening for clamping the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal and wraps the electrode terminal in a large range, the structural stability can be improved.

[0016] In some embodiments, the electrode terminal protruding from the can body is cylindrical, and the connection portion is wrapped around the electrode terminal at an angle greater than or equal to 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees. Since the electrode terminal is cylindrical, the sampling member can be more easily installed on the electrode terminal.

[0017] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the connection portion is provided with a plurality of protrusions for clamping the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal. In some embodiments, the circumferential side wall of the electrode terminal is formed with a plurality of recesses corresponding to the protrusions, and the protrusions and the recesses are matched. In this way, the movement or rotation of the connection portion relative to the electrode terminal can be prevented, thereby improving the stability of the connection.

[0018] In some embodiments, the connection portion is provided with a through hole extending in the first direction, which provides a deformation space for the connection portion when the connection portion is clamped on the electrode terminal, so that the side of the connection portion near the through hole is more easily deformed when the connection portion is clamped on the circumferential side of the electrode terminal.

[0019] In some embodiments, the connection portion is provided with a notch, and the through hole extends to communicate with the notch. The notch of the connection portion is used to pass the electrode terminal when the connection portion is assembled with the electrode terminal. Since one end of the through hole extends to communicate with the notch, the connection portion is more easily deformed when the connection portion is clamped on the electrode terminal.

[0020] In some embodiments, the two electrode terminals of each battery cell protrude from the can body in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell, and in adjacent two battery cells, the electrode terminals of one battery cell are arranged opposite to and abut against the electrode terminals of the other battery cell. Since the electrode terminals of adjacent two battery cells are directly abutted to achieve electrical connection, the number of electrical connection components can be reduced, and the energy density of the battery can be improved.

[0021] In some embodiments, in adjacent two battery cells, the electrode terminals of one battery cell are welded together with the electrode terminals of the other battery cell. By directly welding two protruding electrode terminals in this way, stable electrical connection between adjacent two battery cells can be achieved.

[0022] In some embodiments, in two adjacent battery cells, the electrode terminals of one battery cell are welded together with the electrode terminals of the other battery cell, and the contact area between the sampling element and the electrode terminal is offset from the welding area of ​​the electrode terminal along the first direction. When two electrode terminals are welded, uneven welding areas are often formed on the two electrode terminals. By offsetting the contact area between the sampling element and the electrode terminal from the welding area of ​​the electrode terminal in the first direction, it is possible to avoid poor contact and reduced sampling accuracy caused by the sampling element connecting to the welding area, and also to improve assembly accuracy.

[0023] In some embodiments, the battery has a plurality of battery cells arranged along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; the sampling member has a plurality of connecting portions arranged along the second direction, each connecting portion being connected to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal of the corresponding battery cell. That is, a plurality of battery cells are arranged in the first direction to form a battery cell, and a plurality of battery cells are arranged in the second direction such that the plurality of battery cells are arranged in a matrix. Because the sampling member has a plurality of connecting portions arranged along the second direction, each connecting portion being connected to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal of the corresponding battery cell, the sampling member can simultaneously acquire electrical signals from a plurality of battery cells arranged in the second direction, and the electrode terminals of the plurality of battery cells electrically connected to the plurality of connecting portions of a sampling member can have equal potentials, thereby achieving voltage equalization of the battery cells and improving the consistency of the battery cells.

[0024] In some embodiments, a mounting plate is further provided, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the canisters of two adjacent battery cells along the first direction, the mounting plate being used to fix the sampling element. Since the sampling element is fixed to the mounting plate, it can be securely fixed.

[0025] In some embodiments, the mounting plate has a mounting portion and two extensions, the mounting portion being connected between the two extensions and used to fix the sampling element, the two extensions respectively overlapping the canisters of two adjacent battery cells. This allows for stable mounting of the sampling element relative to the battery cells with a simple structure.

[0026] In some embodiments, the mounting portion is recessed towards the gap to form a groove. This allows circuit components for transmitting electrical signals to be arranged within the space of the groove, thereby improving space utilization and increasing the battery's energy density.

[0027] In some embodiments, the sampling element further has a fixing portion that passes through the mounting portion and is fixed thereto.

[0028] In some embodiments, the mounting portion engages with the gap, and in the first direction, the width of the mounting portion is the same as the width of the gap. Therefore, when installing the mounting plate, the mounting portion can be used for positioning, and movement between adjacent battery cells can be prevented.

[0029] In some embodiments, the extension is flat and bonded to the can of the battery cell. This allows the mounting plate to be stably positioned relative to the can of the battery cell, improving structural stability.

[0030] Secondly, an electrical device is provided, comprising: a battery as described in the first aspect. The battery is used to provide electrical energy.

[0031] Thirdly, a method for manufacturing a battery is provided, comprising: providing a battery cell comprising a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction and electrically connected to each other, each battery cell comprising a can and two electrode terminals of opposite polarity, the two electrode terminals being respectively disposed at both ends of the can along the first direction, and at least one of the electrode terminals protruding from the can in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell; and providing a sampling element, the sampling element being at least partially located between two adjacent battery cells and connected to the electrode terminal protruding from the can, for acquiring signals from the connected battery cells.

[0032] Fourthly, an apparatus for manufacturing a battery is provided, comprising: a first providing module for providing a battery cell, the battery cell comprising a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction and electrically connected to each other, each battery cell comprising a can and two electrode terminals of opposite polarity, the two electrode terminals being respectively disposed at both ends of the can along the first direction, and at least one of the electrode terminals protruding from the can in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell; a second providing module for providing a sampling element; and an mounting module for mounting the sampling element to the battery cell, the sampling element being at least partially located between two adjacent battery cells and connected to the electrode terminal protruding from the can, for acquiring signals from the connected battery cell. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle according to one embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery according to one embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a matrix arrangement of multiple battery cells according to an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of multiple battery cells according to one embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sampling device between two battery cells according to one embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the sampling component and the mounting plate according to one embodiment of this application, wherein, Figure 6 (a) is a three-dimensional structural diagram showing the separation of the sampling component from the mounting plate. Figure 6 (b) is a side view of the structure where the sampling component and mounting plate are installed between two adjacent battery cells. Figure 6 (c) is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the sampler and the mounting plate combined together;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sampling component according to another embodiment of this application, wherein, Figure 7 (a) is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the sampling component mounted on the mounting plate. Figure 7 (b) is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the sampling component;

[0041] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the sampling component and the mounting plate according to another embodiment of this application, wherein, Figure 8 (a) is a three-dimensional structural diagram showing the separation of the sampling component from the mounting plate. Figure 8 (b) is a side view of the structure where the sampling component and mounting plate are installed between two adjacent battery cells. Figure 8 (c) is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the sampler and the mounting plate combined together;

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sampling component according to another embodiment of this application, wherein, Figure 9 (a) indicates that the sampling element is not in contact with the electrode terminals. Figure 9 (b) indicates the state of contact between the sampling element and the electrode terminal;

[0043] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a method for preparing a battery according to one embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a schematic block diagram of an apparatus for preparing a battery according to one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0046] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0047] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a mutually exclusive, independent, or alternative embodiment. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in this application can be combined with other embodiments.

[0048] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0049] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0050] In this application, "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), and similarly, "multiple groups" refers to two or more (including two), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two).

[0051] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module comprising multiple battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery mentioned in this application may include a battery module or a battery pack, etc.

[0052] A battery cell includes electrode components and an electrolyte. The electrode components include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. The battery cell primarily functions by the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrode components. The positive electrode includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer. The positive active material layer is coated on the surface of the positive current collector. The uncoated current collector protrudes from the coated current collector and serves as the positive electrode tab. Taking a lithium-ion battery as an example, the positive current collector can be made of aluminum, and the positive active material can be lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, or lithium manganese oxide, etc. The negative electrode includes a negative current collector and a negative active material layer. The negative active material layer is coated on the surface of the negative current collector. The uncoated current collector protrudes from the coated current collector and serves as the negative electrode tab. The negative current collector can be made of copper, and the negative active material can be carbon or silicon, etc. To ensure that a large current can be carried without melting, multiple positive electrode tabs are stacked together, and multiple negative electrode tabs are stacked together. The diaphragm can be made of PP or PE, etc. Furthermore, the electrode assembly can be a wound structure or a stacked structure; the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0053] The development of battery technology must take into account multiple design factors, such as energy density, cycle life, discharge capacity, charge / discharge rate and other performance parameters. In addition, battery safety also needs to be considered.

[0054] Currently, electric vehicle batteries often require dozens or even thousands of individual battery cells.

[0055] In practical applications, due to slight differences in certain parameters between individual battery cells (such as voltage, internal resistance, and SOC (state of charge), these differences will increase over time. If these differences are ignored, the consistency of the battery cells will deteriorate, affecting battery performance and potentially causing serious consequences, including fires and explosions. Therefore, sampling devices are installed within the battery to detect and address any anomalies.

[0056] In existing technologies, the outer casing of a battery cell is typically electrically connected to the positive or negative electrode, and a sampling ring is fitted onto and in contact with the outer casing of the battery cell to collect signals. Because the sampling ring is fitted onto the outer casing of the battery cell, it occupies a significant amount of space, resulting in a decrease in the battery's energy density.

[0057] In view of this, this application provides a technical solution: a battery, comprising: a battery cell including a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction and electrically connected to each other, each battery cell including a can and two electrode terminals with opposite polarities, the two electrode terminals being respectively disposed at both ends of the can along the first direction, and at least one of the electrode terminals protruding from the can in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell; and a sampling element, at least partially located between two adjacent battery cells and connected to the electrode terminal protruding from the can, for acquiring signals from the connected battery cells.

[0058] Therefore, it is possible to acquire signals such as voltage or temperature from individual battery cells with a simple structure, and monitor the safety status of each battery cell based on the acquired voltage or temperature signals. Furthermore, since at least one electrode terminal protrudes from the canister away from the interior of the battery cell, and the sampling element is at least partially located between two adjacent battery cells, the sampling element can be installed in the previously unused space between the two battery cells, making full use of the internal space of the battery to improve the overall energy density of the battery.

[0059] One embodiment of this application provides an electrical device in which a battery is used to provide electrical energy.

[0060] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to various battery-powered devices, such as mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, electric vehicles, electric toys, power tools, electric vehicles, ships, and spacecraft. For example, spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft.

[0061] It should be understood that the technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are not limited to the devices described above, but can also be applied to all devices that use batteries. However, for the sake of brevity, the following embodiments are all illustrated using electric vehicles as examples.

[0062] For example, such as Figure 1The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a vehicle 100 according to one embodiment of this application. The vehicle 100 can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. The vehicle 100 can have a motor 2, a controller 3, and a battery 1 installed inside. The controller 3 controls the battery 1 to supply power to the motor 2. For example, the battery 1 can be installed at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle 100. The battery 1 can be used to power the vehicle 100; for example, the battery 1 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 100's electrical system, such as meeting the power requirements for starting, navigation, and operation of the vehicle 100. In another embodiment of this application, the battery 1 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 100 but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 100, replacing or partially replacing gasoline or natural gas to provide driving power to the vehicle 100.

[0063] To meet different power needs, battery 1 may include multiple battery cells 20, wherein the multiple battery cells 20 may be connected in series, in parallel or in a mixed manner, and a mixed manner refers to a combination of series and parallel connections.

[0064] For example, such as Figure 2 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a battery 1 according to an embodiment of this application. The battery 1 may include multiple battery cells 10, each battery cell 10 including multiple battery individuals 20 arranged along a first direction X and electrically connected to each other. The multiple battery cells 10 are arranged along a second direction Y. The second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X. That is, the multiple battery individuals 20 in the battery 1 are arranged in a matrix structure. Optionally, the battery 1 may also have only one battery cell 10, which includes multiple battery individuals 20 arranged along the first direction X and electrically connected. The battery 1 may also include a housing 11, the housing 11 having a hollow interior structure, and the multiple battery individuals 20 are housed within the housing 11. Figure 2 As shown, the housing 11 may include two parts, referred to here as the top cover 111 and the housing shell 112. The top cover 111 and the housing shell 112 are fastened together. The shapes of the top cover 111 and the housing shell 112 can be determined according to the shape of the combination of multiple battery cells 20. For example, both the top cover 111 and the housing shell 112 can be hollow cuboids with only one open side each. The openings of the top cover 111 and the housing shell 112 are opposite to each other, and the top cover 111 and the housing shell 112 are fastened together to form a housing with a closed chamber. Alternatively, the top cover 111 can be a cuboid with an opening and the housing shell 112 can be plate-shaped, or the housing shell 112 can be a cuboid with an opening and the top cover 111 can be plate-shaped. The top cover 111 and the housing shell 112 are opposite to each other and fastened together to form a housing with a closed chamber. Multiple battery cells 20 are connected in parallel, series, or mixed and then placed inside the housing formed by the upper cover 111 and the casing 112.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, multiple battery cells 20 are arranged along a first direction X and electrically connected to each other to form a battery cell 10. Specifically, the battery cell 10 is formed by connecting multiple battery cells 20 in series. The multiple battery cells 10 are arranged along a second direction Y, and the multiple battery cells 10 are electrically connected to each other through a busbar 50.

[0066] like Figure 4 As shown, this application illustrates a plurality of battery cells 10 (in...) according to one embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 The diagram shows a structure of three battery cells 10, each of which has two individual battery cells 20.

[0067] The battery cell 20 includes a can 21, two electrode terminals 214 with opposite polarities, and one or more electrode assemblies (not shown) disposed within the can 21. The shape of the can 21 depends on the combined shape of the one or more electrode assemblies; for example, the can 21 can be a hollow cuboid, cube, or cylinder. The can 21 includes a housing 211 and an end cap 212. The housing 211 has an opening at one end along a first direction X, allowing one or more electrode assemblies to be placed into the can 21 through the opening, and the opening is closed by the end cap 212. The can 21 is filled with an electrolyte, such as an electrolyte solution. Figure 4 As shown, the shell 211 has openings at both ends along the first direction X, and the tank 21 includes two end caps 212, which respectively close the openings at both ends of the shell 211.

[0068] Two electrode terminals 214, representing a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal respectively, are respectively disposed at both ends of the can body 21 along the first direction. Specifically, the two electrode terminals 214 are respectively disposed on two end caps 212, and at least one electrode terminal 214 protrudes from the can body 21 in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell 20. Since the two electrode terminals 214 are respectively disposed on two end caps 212, the electrode terminals 214 can be insulated from the end caps 212. Therefore, the can body 21 can be made insulated from the positive and / or negative electrodes and not energized. When the can body 21 is not energized, the probability of short circuit can be reduced, thereby improving the safety performance of the battery cell 20.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown, multiple (in Figure 4The diagram shows two battery cells 20 arranged along a first direction X and electrically connected to each other to form a battery unit 10. In this embodiment, the electrode terminals 214 of each of the two electrically connected battery cells 20 protrude from the can 21 in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell 20. It should be noted that, alternatively, the electrode terminals 214 of one of the two battery cells 20 may protrude from the can 21 in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell 20, while the electrode terminals 214 of the other battery cell 20 are flush with the end cap 212. Alternatively, both electrode terminals 214 of each battery cell 20 may protrude from the can 21 in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell 20. In this embodiment, the electrode terminals 214 of the two battery cells 20 are directly connected to achieve electrical connection. It should be noted that the electrical connection of the two battery cells 20 can also be achieved through a connecting structure such as a connecting piece. The electrode terminals 214 can be various shapes such as cylindrical, cuboid, cube, or polygonal prism; the electrode terminals shown in this embodiment are cylindrical. The battery cell 20 can be a cuboid, cube, or cylinder; in this embodiment, the battery cell shown is a cylindrical structure. When the battery cell is cylindrical, the "first direction" mentioned above in this application refers to the axial direction of the battery cell.

[0070] like Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sampling element 30 between two battery cells 20 according to an embodiment of this application.

[0071] In the first direction X, the sampling element 30 is at least partially located between two adjacent battery cells 20 and connected to an electrode terminal 214 protruding from the canister 21 for signal acquisition from the connected battery cells 20. Specifically, in the first direction X, a gap 213 is formed between the canisters 21 of two adjacent battery cells 20, and the sampling element 30 is at least partially located in the gap 213.

[0072] Battery 1 also has a mounting plate 31, which is connected at both ends along the first direction X to the canisters 21 of two adjacent battery cells 20, thereby connecting the mounting plate 31 to the battery cells 20.

[0073] like Figure 6 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the assembly structure of the sampling component 30 and the mounting plate 31 according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 (a) is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the sampling component 30 separated from the mounting plate 31 in this embodiment. Figure 6 (b) is a side view of the sampling component 30 and the mounting plate 31 installed between two adjacent battery cells 20 in this embodiment. Figure 6 (c) is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the sampling component 30 and the mounting plate 31 combined in this embodiment.

[0074] likeFigure 6 As shown in (a), the mounting plate 31 has a mounting portion 310 and two extension portions 312. The mounting portion 310 is connected between the two extension portions 312 and is used to fix it to the sampling member 30. The sampling member 30 has a connecting portion 301 and a fixing portion 302. The extending direction of the fixing portion 302 intersects the extending direction of the connecting portion 301, so that the sampling member 30 is formed, for example, in a figure-7 shape or a T shape.

[0075] A sampling element 30 may have multiple connecting portions 301 arranged along the second direction Y, each connecting portion 301 being connected to the circumferential sidewall of a corresponding electrode terminal 214 of a battery cell 10 arranged in the second direction Y. Furthermore, a mounting plate 31 also extends in the second direction Y, enabling the mounting of multiple sampling elements 30. Figure 6 (a) shows the structure of the sampling element 30 having three connecting parts 301. As a result, the sampling element 30 can simultaneously collect electrical signals from multiple battery cells 20 arranged in the second direction Y, and the electrode terminals 214 of the multiple battery cells 20 electrically connected to the multiple connecting parts 301 of the sampling element 30 can have equal potentials, thereby achieving voltage equalization of the battery cells 20 and improving the consistency of the battery cells 20.

[0076] like Figure 6 As shown in (b), the two extensions 312 of the mounting plate 31 overlap the canisters 21 of two adjacent battery cells 20. The extensions 312 are flat. The extensions 312 are bonded to the canisters 21 of the battery cells 20, thereby fixing the mounting plate 31 to the canisters 21. The mounting portion 310 of the mounting plate 31 is recessed towards the gap 213 to form a groove 311. Due to the presence of the groove 311, circuit components for transmitting electrical signals can be arranged in the space of the groove 311, thereby improving space utilization and increasing the energy density of the battery.

[0077] The mounting portion 310 engages with the gap 213, and in the first direction X, the width W1 of the mounting portion 310 is approximately the same as the width W of the gap 213. Therefore, when installing the mounting plate 31, the mounting portion 310 can be used for positioning, and it can also prevent movement between two adjacent battery cells 20.

[0078] Electrode terminal 214 includes two end faces disposed along a first direction X and a circumferential sidewall connecting the two end faces. The connecting portion 301 of the sampling member 30 is connected to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214 for signal acquisition. The fixing portion 302 of the sampling member 30 passes through the mounting portion 310 and is fixed to the mounting portion 310, thereby fixing the sampling member 30 to the mounting plate 31. In this application, the electrode terminal 214 can be of various shapes such as cylindrical, cuboid, cube, or polygonal prism. In this embodiment, when the electrode terminal is cylindrical, the circumferential sidewall refers to the circumferential surface of the cylinder.

[0079] The mounting plate 31 and the sampling element 30 can be integrally formed by methods such as in-mold injection molding, or they can be separate structures connected by snap-fit ​​or by hot-press riveting. The mounting plate 31 is made of materials such as polycarbonate and polyacrylonitrile (ABS) and has an insulating function. The sampling element 30 is made of materials such as aluminum alloy or steel and is used to collect and transmit signals. The signals collected by the sampling element 30 are transmitted to a signal processor or the like for processing via flexible flat cables (e.g., FFC) or flexible circuit boards (e.g., FPC). The sampling element 30 is exposed on the upper surface of the mounting plate 31 to facilitate contact between the flexible flat cables (or flexible circuit boards) and the sampling element 30 and to transmit the collected signals. In addition, in the embodiment of this application, the extension 312 of the mounting plate 31 is formed as a flat plate for the part that contacts the can of the battery cell 20, but the structure of the mounting plate 31 is not limited to this. It can also be formed as a curved plate that matches the circumferential side shape of the can of the battery cell 20. Moreover, the battery 1 may also include a temperature sampler. The temperature sampler can be mounted on the mounting plate 31 and contact the canister 21 of the battery cell 20 to measure the temperature.

[0080] In this embodiment, the connecting part 301 is snapped onto the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214. For example... Figure 6 As shown in (c), the connecting portion 301 has a notch 304 formed on the side opposite to the mounting plate 31, and this notch 304 is elastic. When assembling the connecting portion 301 to the electrode terminal 214, the notch 304 first opens through elastic deformation, and then engages with the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214. After assembly, the elastic restoring force of the notch 304 maintains the engagement with the electrode terminal 214, thereby ensuring a tight fit with the electrode terminal 214. This installation structure is simple and convenient, requiring no additional fixing structure. At the same time, it can make full use of the gap 213 between the two battery cells 20 without occupying too much space for the battery cells 20, thus correspondingly increasing the energy density of the battery.

[0081] To achieve a stable electrical connection, the enclosure size of the connecting portion 301 around the electrode terminal 214 is greater than or equal to half the circumference of the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214 and less than the circumference of the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214. Since the connecting portion 301 has a notch 304 for engaging the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214 and covers a large area of ​​the electrode terminal 214, structural stability can be improved.

[0082] When the electrode terminal 214 protruding from the tank 21 is cylindrical, the wrapping angle of the connecting part 301 around the electrode terminal 214 is greater than or equal to 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees. Since the electrode terminal 214 is cylindrical, the sampling member 30 can be more easily installed on the electrode terminal 214.

[0083] like Figure 6 As shown in (c), multiple protrusions 303 may be provided on the inner surface of the sampling member 30 for clamping the circumferential side surface of the electrode terminal 214. To further improve the assembly accuracy and stability of the sampling member 30 and the electrode terminal 214, multiple recesses corresponding to the protrusions 303 are formed on the circumferential side surface of the electrode terminal 214, which cooperate with the protrusions 303. This prevents the connecting part 301 from moving or rotating relative to the electrode terminal 214, thereby improving connection stability.

[0084] like Figure 7 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a sampling component according to another embodiment of this application, wherein... Figure 7 (a) is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the sampling component 30 mounted on the mounting plate 31. Figure 7 (b) is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the sampling component 30.

[0085] like Figure 7 (a) and Figure 7 As shown in (b), the connecting portion 301 is provided with a through hole 307 extending in the first direction X. The through hole 307 provides deformation space for the connecting portion 301 to be engaged with the electrode terminal 214, so that the side of the connecting portion 301 located near the electrode terminal 214 in the through hole 307 can deform more easily, thereby making it easier for the connecting portion 301 to be engaged with the circumferential side of the electrode terminal 214. Figure 7 As shown in (a), when the electrode terminal 214 is cylindrical, the projection of the through hole 307 in the first direction X is arc-shaped. In the circumferential direction of the electrode terminal 214, the size of the through hole 307 is greater than or equal to the size of the protrusion 303. However, this is not a limitation; the through hole 307 may also be formed in other shapes such as a strip.

[0086] The connecting portion 301 has a notch 304, which is used for the power supply terminal 214 to pass through when the connecting portion 301 is assembled with the electrode terminal 214, so that the snap-fit ​​portion 301 snaps into the electrode terminal. In this embodiment, one end of the through hole 307 extends to communicate with the notch 304, thereby making the connecting portion 301 easier to deform when it snaps into the electrode terminal 214.

[0087] In addition, Figure 6 (a) illustrates the structure in which each connecting portion 301 of the sampling member 30 is mounted to the mounting plate 31 using a fixing portion 302. However, as... Figure 7As shown in (b), a single fixing part 302 can also be shared among sampling members 30 having multiple connecting parts 301 arranged along the second direction Y.

[0088] like Figure 8 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the assembly structure of the sampling component 30 and the mounting plate 31 according to another embodiment of this application. Figure 8 (a) is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the sampling component 30 separated from the mounting plate 31 in this embodiment. Figure 8 (b) is a side view of the sampling component 30 and the mounting plate 31 installed between two adjacent battery cells 20 in this embodiment. Figure 8 (c) is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the sampling component 30 and the mounting plate 31 combined in this embodiment.

[0089] In this embodiment, the connecting portion 301 of the sampling member 30 completely conforms to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214. Furthermore, in the first direction X, the dimension W2 of the connecting portion 301 is approximately the same as the dimension W of the gap 213. Thus, the connecting portion 301 can fit precisely into the gap 213 between the two battery cells 20. The dimension W2 of the connecting portion 301 in the first direction X is larger than the dimension of the connecting portion 301 in its thickness direction. For example, in... Figure 8 (c) When the connecting portion 301 is formed in a ring shape, the thickness direction of the connecting portion 301 is the radial thickness dimension of the connecting portion 301. This increases the contact area between the connecting portion 301 and the electrode terminal 214, and the rigidity does not increase due to the excessive thickness of the connecting portion 301. The connecting portion 301 can easily deform elastically to engage with the electrode terminal 214.

[0090] In this embodiment, with Figure 6 Similarly, in the illustrated embodiment, the connecting portion 301 engages with the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214. The connecting portion 301 has a notch 304 formed on the side opposite to the mounting plate 31, and the notch 304 is elastic. When assembling the connecting portion 301 to the electrode terminal 214, the notch 304 first opens through elastic deformation, then engages with the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214. After assembly, the elastic restoring force of the notch 304 maintains the engagement with the electrode terminal 214, thus ensuring a tight fit. To achieve a stable electrical connection, the wrapping dimension of the connecting portion 301 around the electrode terminal 214 is greater than or equal to half the circumference of the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214 and less than the circumference of the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214. When the electrode terminal 214 protruding from the tank 21 is cylindrical, the wrapping angle of the connecting portion 301 around the electrode terminal 214 is greater than or equal to 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees.

[0091] like Figure 8As shown in (c), the end 305 at the notch 304 of the connecting portion 301 is bent toward the mounting plate 31. This prevents the connecting portion 301 from contacting the circumferential side of the electrode terminal 214 with its sharp end 305, thus preventing damage to the electrode terminal 214 during the snap-fit ​​process. Furthermore, the end 305 can be used to secure the sampling member 30, further preventing the sampling member 30 from falling off the electrode terminal 214.

[0092] In addition, Figure 3 When the multiple battery cells 10 shown are arranged in the second direction Y, the end 305 is housed in the gap between adjacent battery cells 10 in the Y direction. This not only reduces damage to the circumferential sides of the battery cell 20 by the connecting part 301, but also makes efficient use of space.

[0093] like Figure 9 The image shown is a schematic perspective view of the structure of the sampling component 30 according to another embodiment of this application. Figure 9 (a) indicates that the connecting part 301 of the sampling member 30 is not in contact with the electrode terminal 214 and has not yet undergone elastic deformation. Figure 9 (b) indicates that the connecting part 301 of the sampling member 30 contacts the electrode terminal 214 and is elastically deformed to fit the shape of the circumferential side of the electrode terminal 214.

[0094] The sampling component 30 has a connecting portion 301 and a fixing portion 302. In this embodiment, the connecting portion 301 is also connected to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214. The connecting portion 301 is elastic and can deform in response to external force to conform to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214, thereby achieving surface contact with the electrode terminal 214. The external force can be the weight of the battery cell 20 itself, the pressure during battery assembly, the fixing force of other fixing components, etc. When the electrode terminal 214 protruding from the can 21 is cylindrical, the wrapping angle of the connecting portion 301 around the electrode terminal 214 is greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0095] Therefore, the elastic deformation of the connecting portion 301 allows it to adaptively conform to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal 214, achieving good surface contact with the electrode terminal 214 and thus more stably realizing the electrical connection between the sampling member 30 and the electrode terminal 214. The connecting portion 301 is fixed to the support member 306 via the fixing portion 302.

[0096] In another embodiment of this application, both electrode terminals 214 of each battery cell 20 protrude from the can 21 in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell 20, and in two adjacent battery cells 20, the electrode terminals 214 of one battery cell 20 are arranged opposite to and abut against the electrode terminals 214 of the other battery cell 20. Moreover, the electrode terminals 214 of one battery cell 20 are welded together with the electrode terminals 214 of the other battery cell 20.

[0097] Since the electrode terminals 214 of two adjacent battery cells 20 are directly abutted to achieve electrical connection, the number of electrical connection components can be reduced, and the energy density of the battery can be increased. Furthermore, by directly welding the two protruding electrode terminals 214 in this manner, a stable electrical connection between two adjacent battery cells 20 can be achieved.

[0098] When welding the two electrode terminals 214, uneven welding areas are often formed on the two electrode terminals 214. By offsetting the contact area between the sampling element 30 and the electrode terminal 214 from the welding area of ​​the electrode terminal 214 in the first direction X, it is possible to avoid poor contact caused by the sampling element connecting to the welding area, which would reduce the sampling accuracy, and also improve the assembly accuracy.

[0099] One embodiment of this application also provides an electrical device that may include the battery 1 from the foregoing embodiments. The battery 1 is used in this electrical device to provide electrical energy.

[0100] The foregoing described the battery and power-consuming device of the present application embodiments. The following will describe the method and apparatus for preparing the battery of the present application embodiments, wherein parts not described in detail can be referred to the foregoing embodiments.

[0101] Figure 10 A schematic flowchart of a method 400 for preparing a battery according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 10 As shown, the method 400 may include:

[0102] 410, providing a battery cell 10, the battery cell 10 including a plurality of battery cells 20, the plurality of battery cells 10 being arranged along a first direction X and electrically connected to each other, each battery cell 20 including a housing 21 and two electrode terminals 214 of opposite polarity, the two electrode terminals 214 being respectively disposed at both ends of the housing 21 along the first direction X, and at least one electrode terminal 214 protruding from the housing 21 in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell 20; and

[0103] 420, provides a sampling element 30, which is at least partially located between two adjacent battery cells 20 and connected to an electrode terminal 214 protruding from the canister 21 for signal acquisition of the connected battery cells 20.

[0104] Figure 11 A schematic block diagram of a battery fabrication apparatus 500 according to one embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 11 As shown, the battery manufacturing apparatus 500 may include: a first providing module 510, a second providing module 520, and an mounting module 530.

[0105] A first providing module 510 is used to provide a battery unit 10, which includes a plurality of battery cells 20. The plurality of battery cells 20 are arranged along a first direction X and electrically connected to each other. Each battery cell 20 includes a canister 21 and two electrode terminals 214 with opposite polarities. The two electrode terminals 214 are respectively disposed at both ends of the canister 21 along the first direction X, and at least one electrode terminal 214 protrudes from the canister 21 in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell 20. A second providing module 520 is used to provide a sampling element 30. An installation module 530 is used to install the sampling element 30 onto the battery cell 20. The sampling element 30 is at least partially located between two adjacent battery cells 20 and connected to the electrode terminal 214 protruding from the canister 21 for signal acquisition from the connected battery cell 20.

[0106] 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 they can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. However, these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A battery, comprising: A battery cell includes multiple battery cells arranged along a first direction and electrically connected to each other. Each battery cell includes a can and two electrode terminals with opposite polarities. The two electrode terminals are respectively disposed at both ends of the can along the first direction, and at least one of the electrode terminals protrudes from the can in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell. and A sampling element, at least partially located between two adjacent battery cells and connected to the electrode terminal protruding from the can, is used to acquire signals from the connected battery cells. In this configuration, both electrode terminals of each battery cell protrude from the can body in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell, and in two adjacent battery cells, the electrode terminals of one battery cell are positioned opposite and abut against the electrode terminals of the other battery cell.

2. The battery according to claim 1, wherein, In the first direction, a gap is formed between the cans of two adjacent battery cells, and the connecting portion of the sampling element is located in the gap, the connecting portion being used to connect the electrode terminals.

3. The battery according to claim 2, wherein, The connecting part is connected to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal.

4. The battery according to claim 3, wherein, The connecting portion is elastic and configured to deform in response to external forces to conform to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal, thereby achieving surface contact with the electrode terminal.

5. The battery according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The electrode terminal protruding from the tank is cylindrical, and the angle of the connection portion wrapping around the electrode terminal is greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

6. The battery according to claim 3, wherein, The connecting part is engaged with the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal.

7. The battery according to claim 3, wherein, The connecting portion is completely fitted to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal.

8. The battery according to claim 3, wherein, In the first direction, the size of the connecting portion is the same as the size of the gap.

9. The battery according to claim 3, wherein, The dimension of the connecting part in the first direction is greater than the dimension of the connecting part in its thickness direction.

10. The battery according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein, The size of the connection portion covering the electrode terminal is greater than or equal to 1 / 2 of the circumference of the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal and less than the circumference of the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal.

11. The battery according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein, The electrode terminal protruding from the tank is cylindrical, and the angle of the connection portion wrapping around the electrode terminal is greater than or equal to 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees.

12. The battery according to claim 6, wherein, The inner surface of the connector is provided with a plurality of protrusions for clamping the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal.

13. The battery according to claim 6, wherein, The connecting part is provided with a through hole extending in the first direction, and the through hole is used to provide deformation space when the connecting part is snapped into the electrode terminal.

14. The battery according to claim 13, wherein, The connecting portion is provided with a notch, and the through hole extends to communicate with the notch.

15. The battery according to claim 12, wherein, The circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal is formed with a plurality of recesses corresponding to the protrusions, and the protrusions and recesses engage with each other.

16. The battery according to claim 1, wherein, In two adjacent battery cells, the electrode terminals of one battery cell are welded together with the electrode terminals of the other battery cell.

17. The battery according to claim 1, wherein, In two adjacent battery cells, the electrode terminal of one battery cell is welded together with the electrode terminal of the other battery cell, and the contact area between the sampling element and the electrode terminal is offset from the welding area of ​​the electrode terminal along the first direction.

18. The battery according to claim 1, wherein, The battery has a plurality of battery cells arranged along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; the sampling member has a plurality of connecting portions arranged along the second direction, each connecting portion being connected to the circumferential sidewall of the electrode terminal of the corresponding battery cell.

19. The battery according to claim 2, wherein, It also has a mounting plate, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the canisters of two adjacent battery cells along the first direction, and the mounting plate is used to fix the sampling component.

20. The battery according to claim 19, wherein, The mounting plate has a mounting portion and two extension portions. The mounting portion is connected between the two extension portions and is used to fix the sampling component. The two extension portions respectively overlap the canisters of two adjacent battery cells.

21. The battery according to claim 20, wherein, The mounting portion is recessed in the direction close to the gap to form a groove.

22. The battery according to claim 20, wherein, The sampling component also has a fixing part that passes through the mounting part and is fixed to the mounting part.

23. The battery according to claim 20, wherein, The mounting part engages with the gap, and in the first direction, the width of the mounting part is the same as the width of the gap.

24. The battery according to any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein, The extension is flat and is bonded to the can of the battery cell.

25. An electrical device comprising a battery according to any one of claims 1 to 24, said battery being used to provide electrical energy.

26. A method for preparing a battery, comprising: A battery cell is provided, the battery cell comprising a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction and electrically connected to each other, each battery cell comprising a can and two electrode terminals of opposite polarity, the two electrode terminals being respectively disposed at both ends of the can along the first direction, and at least one of the electrode terminals protruding from the can in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell; and A sampling device is provided, which is at least partially located between two adjacent battery cells and connected to the electrode terminals protruding from the can body, for acquiring signals from the connected battery cells; In this configuration, both electrode terminals of each battery cell protrude from the can body in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell, and in two adjacent battery cells, the electrode terminals of one battery cell are positioned opposite and abut against the electrode terminals of the other battery cell.

27. An apparatus for manufacturing a battery, comprising: A first providing module is used to provide a battery cell, the battery cell comprising a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction and electrically connected to each other, each battery cell comprising a can and two electrode terminals of opposite polarity, the two electrode terminals being respectively disposed at both ends of the can along the first direction, and at least one of the electrode terminals protruding from the can in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell; The second providing module is used to provide the sampling components; The mounting module is used to mount the sampling element to the battery cell, wherein the sampling element is at least partially located between two adjacent battery cells and connected to the electrode terminal protruding from the can body, for acquiring signals from the connected battery cells; In this configuration, both electrode terminals of each battery cell protrude from the can body in a direction away from the interior of the battery cell, and in two adjacent battery cells, the electrode terminals of one battery cell are positioned opposite and abut against the electrode terminals of the other battery cell.

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