Battery, electric device, method and apparatus for manufacturing battery

Abstract

The application provides a battery, an electric device, a battery preparation method and equipment. The battery comprises a battery cell group (201), a cooling system (30), and a signal transmission assembly (24). The battery cell group (201) comprises a plurality of battery cells (20). The cooling system (30) is arranged on a first surface (2111) of the battery cell group (201). The signal transmission assembly (24) is arranged on a second surface (2112) adjacent to the first surface (2111) of the battery cell group (201) and comprises a busbar component (241) and an insulating layer (242). The insulating layer (242) is used for encapsulating the busbar component (241). The insulating layer (242) has an opening. The busbar component (241) is used for electrically connecting with the battery cell (20) in the battery cell group (201) at the opening. The battery further comprises a cladding member (25) used for cladding the signal transmission assembly (24) to block condensate generated by the cooling system (30) from reaching the signal transmission assembly (24). The battery, the electric device, the battery preparation method and the equipment can enhance the safety of the battery.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] With increasing environmental pollution, the new energy industry is attracting more and more attention. Within the new energy industry, battery technology is a crucial factor in its development.

[0003] Safety is a crucial issue in the development of battery technology. If battery safety cannot be guaranteed, then the battery cannot be used.

[0004] In high-temperature and high-humidity environments, condensation can easily form inside the battery casing, posing a safety hazard and affecting battery safety. Therefore, enhancing battery safety is a pressing technical problem that needs to be solved in battery technology. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a battery, an electrical device, a method for manufacturing a battery, and an apparatus that can enhance battery safety.

[0006] In a first aspect, a battery is provided, comprising: a battery cell pack including a plurality of battery cells; a cooling system disposed on a first surface of the battery cell pack; a signal transmission component disposed on a second surface of the battery cell pack, the second surface being adjacent to the first surface, the signal transmission component including a busbar and an insulating layer, the insulating layer being used to encapsulate the busbar, the insulating layer having an opening, the busbar being used to electrically connect with a battery cell in the battery cell pack at the opening; and a cover for covering the signal transmission component to prevent condensate generated by the cooling system from reaching the signal transmission component.

[0007] Therefore, the battery in this application embodiment has a cooling system provided on a first surface and a signal transmission component provided on a second surface adjacent to the first surface to realize electrical connection between multiple battery cells. In addition, the battery also includes a cover to cover the signal transmission component. In this way, when the cooling system generates condensate, the cover can prevent the condensate from reaching the signal transmission component, thereby avoiding short circuit of the battery and improving the safety of the battery.

[0008] Optionally, the first surface can be the surface with the largest area of ​​the battery cell group. In this way, when the cooling system is set on the first surface, the area of ​​the battery cell group facing the cooling system can be larger, which can increase the heat dissipation speed of the battery cell group and achieve a better temperature regulation effect.

[0009] In some embodiments, the insulating layer extends toward the cooling system to a position close to the cooling system and is flipped at that position in a direction away from the cooling system to form the cover.

[0010] The cladding is formed by an insulating layer, eliminating the need for additional components. The structure is relatively simple and easy to process.

[0011] In some embodiments, the flipped portion of the insulating layer is fixedly connected to the third side of the battery cell assembly, the third side being parallel to the first side.

[0012] In some embodiments, the edge of the flipped portion of the insulating layer is provided with a folded edge area, which is used to fix the flipped portion of the insulating layer to the battery cell assembly, that is, to fix the cover to the battery cell assembly.

[0013] Alternatively, the folded edge area can be fixedly connected to the third surface using an adhesive or the like.

[0014] In some embodiments, the insulating layer forms an angled region with the second surface at the flip point, facing the cooling system, and the angled region is configured to collect adhesive for bonding the cooling system.

[0015] When the cooling system is fixed to the first surface by adhesive bonding, the included angle area can serve as an overflow area to collect excess adhesive and thus prevent the adhesive from affecting other components inside the battery.

[0016] In some embodiments, the covering is a cover plate covering the second side.

[0017] The signal transmission components of the battery cell can be covered by a cover plate to prevent condensate from entering the signal transmission components. The structure is simple and easy to process.

[0018] In some embodiments, the cover plate includes a first connection area for fixed connection with the first surface.

[0019] In some embodiments, the cover plate further includes a second connection area for fixed connection with a third side of the battery cell assembly, the third side being parallel to the first side.

[0020] When installing and fixing the cover plate, it can be fixed through the first connection area and / or the second connection area. For example, the first connection area is fixed to the first side with an adhesive, the second connection area is fixed to the third side with an adhesive, and the cooling system is fixed to the first side with an adhesive, thereby achieving the fixing between the cover plate and the battery cell group and the fixing between the cooling system and the battery cell group.

[0021] In some embodiments, the cover plate is provided with a drainage channel for draining the condensate. For example, the condensate can be drained to a location away from the signal transmission components through the drainage channel, such as draining it to the bottom of the housing or out of the housing.

[0022] In some embodiments, the cover plate is further provided with a manifold, which is connected to the drain tank. The manifold is used to collect the condensate and guide the condensate into the drain tank.

[0023] Specifically, the manifold can be located near the cooling system to collect condensate, which flows through the manifold to the drain tank and then to a location that does not affect the signal transmission components.

[0024] In some embodiments, the cover plate is made of an insulating material.

[0025] Optionally, the cover plate may be made of the same or different material as the insulating layer in the signal transmission assembly.

[0026] In some embodiments, the battery cell group includes N battery cell columns, the N battery cell columns are arranged along a first direction, and the battery cells in each of the N battery cell columns are arranged along a second direction, the first direction being perpendicular to the second direction, and N being a positive integer; wherein, the first surface is perpendicular to the first direction, and the second surface is parallel to a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction.

[0027] In some embodiments, along a first direction, the projection of the cooling system covers the projection of the covering, and the first surface is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0028] In this way, the cooling system can be covered by the cover, the cover does not affect the installation of the cooling system, and the condensate produced by the cooling system can be better blocked by the cover.

[0029] In some embodiments, the end of the cooling system near the cover is inclined toward the cover, so that condensate generated on the surface of the cooling system can slide off through the inclined portion, thus preventing condensate from accumulating on the surface of the cooling system and being unable to drain, further improving battery safety.

[0030] In a second aspect, an electrical device is provided, comprising: the battery of the first aspect, for providing electrical energy.

[0031] In some embodiments, the electrical equipment is a vehicle, a ship, or a spacecraft.

[0032] Thirdly, a method for manufacturing a battery is provided, comprising: providing a battery cell assembly, the battery cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; providing a cooling system disposed on a first surface of the battery cell assembly; providing a signal transmission component disposed on a second surface of the battery cell assembly, the second surface being adjacent to the first surface, the signal transmission component including a busbar and an insulating layer, the insulating layer for encapsulating the busbar, the insulating layer having an opening, the busbar for electrically connecting to a battery cell in the battery cell assembly at the opening; and providing a covering member for covering the signal transmission component to prevent condensate generated by the cooling system from reaching the signal transmission component.

[0033] Fourthly, an apparatus for manufacturing batteries is provided, comprising a module for performing the method described in the third aspect.

[0034] The technical solution of this application embodiment includes a cooling system provided on a first surface of the battery cell group included in the battery, and a signal transmission component provided on a second surface adjacent to the first surface to realize electrical connection between multiple battery cells. In addition, the battery also includes a cover to cover the signal transmission component. In this way, when the cooling system generates condensate, the cover can prevent the condensate from reaching the signal transmission component, thereby avoiding short circuit of the battery and improving the safety of the battery. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle disclosed in one embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of a battery disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 3 This is an exploded structural diagram of a battery cell disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 4 This is an exploded structural diagram of another battery disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of some internal components of a battery disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of another internal component of a battery disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a battery internal component after installation, as disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of a portion of region A in the middle;

[0043] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of a method for preparing a battery disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 10 This is a schematic block diagram of an apparatus for preparing a battery, as disclosed in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] The accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The detailed description of the following embodiments and the accompanying drawings are used to illustrate the principles of this application by way of example, but should not be used to limit the scope of this application, that is, this application is not limited to the described embodiments.

[0047] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. "Vertical" is not vertical in the strict sense, but within the allowable tolerance range. "Parallel" is not parallel in the strict sense, but within the allowable tolerance range.

[0048] 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.

[0049] The directional terms used in the following description refer to the directions shown in the figures and are not intended to limit the specific structure of this application. It should also be noted in the description of this application that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0050] 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.

[0051] In this application, the battery cell may include lithium-ion secondary batteries, lithium-ion primary batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, or magnesium-ion batteries, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these. The battery cell may be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these. Battery cells are generally divided into three types according to their packaging method: cylindrical battery cells, cuboid / square battery cells, and pouch battery cells, and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0052] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module comprising one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery mentioned in this application may include a battery pack, etc. A battery generally includes a housing for encapsulating one or more battery cells. The housing can prevent liquids or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells.

[0053] 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 pass through without melting, multiple positive electrode tabs are stacked together, and multiple negative electrode tabs are stacked together. The separator can be made of polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (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.

[0054] To meet diverse power demands, a battery can comprise multiple individual battery cells, which can be connected in series, parallel, or a combination of both. Optionally, multiple battery cells can first be connected in series, parallel, or a combination to form a battery module, and then these battery modules can be connected in series, parallel, or a combination to form a battery. In other words, multiple battery cells can directly form a battery, or they can first be assembled into battery modules, and then the battery modules can be assembled into a battery. The battery is then further installed in electrical equipment to provide power to that equipment.

[0055] 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.

[0056] For individual battery cells, the main safety hazards come from the charging and discharging processes, as well as appropriate temperature design. To control the temperature of individual battery cells, a cooling system can be installed inside the battery. The cooling system contains a cooling medium to lower the temperature of the battery cells. The cooling system can also be called a cooling component or cooling plate, and the cooling medium can be called a cooling fluid, more specifically, a coolant or cooling gas. The cooling fluid circulates to achieve better temperature regulation. Optionally, the cooling medium can be water, a mixture of water and ethylene glycol, or air. When the cooling medium is water, the cooling system can also be called a water-cooled plate.

[0057] In addition to the battery cells and cooling system mentioned above, the battery casing may also include signal transmission components and other battery parts. In some embodiments, the casing may also include structures for securing the battery cells. The shape of the casing can be determined based on the number of battery cells it houses. In some embodiments, the casing may be square and have six walls.

[0058] It should be understood that the signal transmission component of this application embodiment can be used to transmit signals such as voltage and / or temperature of individual battery cells. The signal transmission component may include a busbar for establishing an electrical connection between multiple battery cells, such as in parallel, series, or mixed connections. The busbar can establish the electrical connection between battery cells by connecting the electrode terminals of the battery cells. In some embodiments, the busbar can be fixed to the electrode terminals of the battery cells by welding. The busbar transmits the voltage of the battery cells; when multiple battery cells are connected in series, a higher voltage is obtained. Accordingly, the electrical connection formed by the busbar can also be referred to as a "high-voltage connection."

[0059] In addition to the busbar component, the signal transmission assembly may also include sensors for sensing the state of individual battery cells. For example, the sensors may be used to measure and transmit sensing signals such as the temperature and state of charge of the individual battery cells. In embodiments of this application, the electrical connection components within the battery may include the busbar component and / or sensors.

[0060] The busbar and sensor can be encapsulated in an insulating layer to form a signal transmission assembly. Accordingly, the signal transmission assembly can be used to transmit the voltage and / or sensing signals of the battery cells. The signal transmission assembly does not have an insulating layer at the connection point with the electrode terminals of the battery cells; that is, the insulating layer has openings at this point for connection with the electrode terminals of the battery cells.

[0061] Considering that batteries are prone to condensation in high-temperature and high-humidity environments, this can pose a safety hazard to the signal transmission components inside the battery, potentially causing electrical connection failures and malfunctions, thus affecting battery safety. Specifically, when the high-temperature and high-humidity gases inside the battery encounter the cooling system within the battery casing, condensation will form. If this condensation drips onto the electrical connection areas inside the battery, it may affect battery safety.

[0062] In view of this, this application provides a technical solution in which a covering is provided on the outside of the signal transmission component that realizes the electrical connection of the battery to cover the signal transmission component, thereby preventing the condensate generated by the cooling system from reaching the electrical connection area. This way, the condensate will not affect the electrical connection area inside the battery or the signal transmission component, thus enhancing the safety of the battery.

[0063] In addition to the components mentioned above, a pressure balancing mechanism can also be installed on the battery casing to balance the pressure inside and outside the casing. For example, when the pressure inside the casing is higher than that outside, the gas inside the casing can flow to the outside through the pressure balancing mechanism; when the pressure inside the casing is lower than that outside, the gas outside the casing can flow into the inside through the pressure balancing mechanism.

[0064] It should be understood that the various components in the battery casing described above should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. That is, the battery casing of the embodiments of this application may or may not include the above-described components.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] For example, such as Figure 1 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a vehicle 1 according to one embodiment of this application. Vehicle 1 can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. A motor 40, a controller 50, and a battery 10 can be installed inside vehicle 1. The controller 50 controls the battery 10 to supply power to the motor 40. For example, the battery 10 can be installed at the bottom, front, or rear of vehicle 1. The battery 10 can be used to power vehicle 1; for example, it can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1's electrical system, such as meeting the power requirements for starting, navigation, and operation. In another embodiment of this application, the battery 10 can not only serve as the operating power source for vehicle 1 but also as the driving power source, replacing or partially replacing gasoline or natural gas to provide driving power to vehicle 1.

[0068] To meet different power demands, battery 10 may include multiple individual battery cells. For example, Figure 2 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a battery 10 according to an embodiment of this application. The battery 10 may include at least one battery module 200. The battery module 200 includes a plurality of battery cells 20. The battery 10 may also include a housing 11, which has a hollow internal structure, and the plurality of battery cells 10 are housed within the housing 11. Figure 2 As shown, the housing 11 may include two parts, referred to herein as the first part 111 (upper housing) and the second part 112 (lower housing), which are fastened together. The shapes of the first part 111 and the second part 112 may be determined according to the shape of the combination of multiple battery cells 20, and at least one of the first part 111 and the second part 112 may have an opening. For example, as... Figure 2 As shown, both the first part 111 and the second part 112 can be hollow cuboids, each with only one open face. The openings of the first part 111 and the second part 112 are opposite to each other, and the first part 111 and the second part 112 interlock to form a box 11 with a closed cavity. For example, unlike... Figure 2As shown, in the first part 111 and the second part 112, only one can be a hollow cuboid with an opening, while the other can be plate-shaped to cover the opening. For example, if the second part 112 is a hollow cuboid with only one open face, and the first part 111 is plate-shaped, then the first part 111 covers the opening of the second part 112 to form a box with a closed cavity, which can be used to accommodate multiple battery cells 20. The multiple battery cells 20 are connected in parallel, series, or mixed and placed inside the box 11 formed by the first part 111 and the second part 112.

[0069] Optionally, the battery 10 may also include other structures, which will not be described in detail here. For example, the battery 10 may also include a busbar component for realizing the electrical connection between multiple battery cells 20, such as parallel, series, or mixed connection. Specifically, the busbar component can realize the electrical connection between battery cells 20 by connecting the electrode terminals of the battery cells 20. Further, the busbar component can be fixed to the electrode terminals of the battery cells 20 by welding. The electrical energy of the multiple battery cells 20 can be further led out through the housing by a conductive mechanism. Optionally, the conductive mechanism may also be part of the busbar component.

[0070] The number of battery cells 20 can be set to any value depending on different power requirements. Multiple battery cells 20 can be connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof to achieve a larger capacity or power. Since each battery 10 may contain a large number of battery cells 20, for ease of installation, the battery cells 20 can be grouped, with each group of battery cells 20 forming a battery module. The number of battery cells 20 included in a battery module is unlimited and can be set according to requirements. A battery can include multiple battery modules, which can be connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof.

[0071] like Figure 3The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a battery cell 20 according to an embodiment of this application. The battery cell 20 includes one or more electrode assemblies 22, a housing 211, and an end cap 212. The housing 211 and the end cap 212 form a casing or battery box 21. The walls of the housing 211 and the end cap 212 are both referred to as the walls of the battery cell 20. For a cuboid battery cell 20, the walls of the housing 211 include a bottom wall and four side walls. The shape of the housing 211 depends on the shape of the assembled one or more electrode assemblies 22. For example, the housing 211 can be a hollow cuboid, cube, or cylinder, and one face of the housing 211 has an opening so that one or more electrode assemblies 22 can be placed inside the housing 211. For example, when the housing 211 is a hollow cuboid or cube, one plane of the housing 211 is an open face, that is, this plane does not have a wall, allowing communication between the inside and outside of the housing 211. When the housing 211 can be a hollow cylinder, the end face of the housing 211 is an open face, that is, the end face does not have a wall, allowing the inside and outside of the housing 211 to communicate. The end cap 212 covers the opening and is connected to the housing 211 to form a closed cavity for placing the electrode assembly 22. The housing 211 is filled with an electrolyte, such as an electrolyte solution.

[0072] The battery cell 20 may also include two electrode terminals 214, which may be disposed on the end cap 212. The end cap 212 is typically flat, and the two electrode terminals 214 are fixed to the flat surface of the end cap 212. The two electrode terminals 214 are respectively a positive electrode terminal 214a and a negative electrode terminal 214b. Each electrode terminal 214 is provided with a corresponding connecting member 23, or a current collector 23, which is located between the end cap 212 and the electrode assembly 22, and is used to electrically connect the electrode assembly 22 and the electrode terminal 214.

[0073] like Figure 3 As shown, each electrode assembly 22 has a first tab 221a and a second tab 222a. The first tab 221a and the second tab 222a have opposite polarities. For example, when the first tab 221a is a positive tab, the second tab 222a is a negative tab. The first tab 221a of one or more electrode assemblies 22 is connected to an electrode terminal via a connecting member 23, and the second tab 222a of one or more electrode assemblies 22 is connected to another electrode terminal via another connecting member 23. For example, the positive electrode terminal 214a is connected to the positive tab via a connecting member 23, and the negative electrode terminal 214b is connected to the negative tab via another connecting member 23.

[0074] In this battery cell 20, depending on actual usage requirements, the electrode assembly 22 can be configured as a single unit or multiple units, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the battery cell 20 contains four independent electrode assemblies 22.

[0075] A pressure relief mechanism may also be provided on the battery cell 20. The pressure relief mechanism is actuated to release the internal pressure or temperature when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell 20 reaches a threshold.

[0076] The pressure relief mechanism can be any of the possible pressure relief structures, and the embodiments of this application are not limited to this. For example, the pressure relief mechanism can be a temperature-sensitive pressure relief mechanism, which is configured to melt when the internal temperature of the battery cell 20 with the pressure relief mechanism reaches a threshold; and / or, the pressure relief mechanism can be a pressure-sensitive pressure relief mechanism, which is configured to rupture when the internal gas pressure of the battery cell 20 with the pressure relief mechanism reaches a threshold.

[0077] It should be understood that the battery 10 in this embodiment includes multiple battery cells 20 that can be arranged and placed in any direction within the housing 11. For example, as shown in... Figure 3 Taking the rectangular battery cell 20 shown as an example, as Figure 2 As shown, multiple battery cells 20 can be arranged as follows Figure 3 The cells are installed vertically inside the housing, such that the end caps 212 of the installed battery cells 20 face the upper housing 111, while the bottom wall of the housing 211 of the battery cells 20 faces the lower housing 112. For example, with... Figure 2 Different, and can also include multiple such Figure 3 The battery cell 20 shown is arranged horizontally inside the box.

[0078] Specifically, Figure 4 Another exploded view of the battery 10 according to one embodiment of this application is shown, as follows: Figure 4 As shown, multiple battery cells 20 can be arranged horizontally inside the housing. Figure 4 As shown, the battery 10 may include a plurality of battery cells 20, which may be arranged in multiple layers, for example, Figure 4 Taking a two-layer battery cell 20 configuration as an example. For the uppermost battery cell 20 in the battery 10, the sidewall with the largest area in each battery cell 20 faces the opening of the lower housing 112, which is also towards the upper housing 111. Figure 4 (Not shown in the image); Conversely, for the lowest layer of battery cells 20 in battery 10, the sidewall with the largest area among the sidewalls of each battery cell 20 in this lowest layer faces the bottom wall of the lower housing 112, that is, towards the wall in the lower housing 112 opposite to the opening. In other words, as shown in the image... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, one end of the end cap 212 of the multiple battery cells 20 faces the side wall of the lower housing 112, that is, the wall of the lower housing 112 adjacent to the opening. Thus, compared to... Figure 2 The installation method of the battery cell 20 shown is as follows. Figure 4The installation method shown is more conducive to heat dissipation of the battery cell 20.

[0079] To further control the battery cell 10 to operate at a suitable temperature, a cooling system 30 can be installed in the battery 10 to ensure the temperature of the battery 10. Specifically, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the cooling system 30 can be positioned above multiple battery cells 20, so that the larger sidewalls of the battery cells 20 face the cooling system 30, increasing the heat dissipation area of ​​the battery cells 20 and making it more conducive to heat dissipation of the battery cells 20.

[0080] Optionally, an upper housing 111 can be provided above the cooling system 30 so that the upper housing 111 and the lower housing 112 can be fastened together to form the housing of the battery 10; or, the cooling component 30 can be integrated into the upper housing 111 to reduce the space occupied, that is, the cooling system 30 can serve as the upper housing 111 to fasten the lower housing 112 to form the housing 11 of the battery 10.

[0081] Because battery 10 is in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment, condensate is easily generated inside the casing, especially on and around the surface of the cooling system 30. Figure 4 The battery cell installation method shown presents a potential safety hazard when condensate from the cooling system 30 drips onto the electrical connection areas within the battery 10, affecting the safety of the battery 10. Specifically, when the high-temperature and high-humidity gas inside the battery 10 encounters the cooling system 30 within the battery 10's casing 11, condensate will be produced. If this condensate drips onto the electrical connection areas within the battery 10, it may affect the safety of the battery 10.

[0082] Therefore, this application provides a battery 10 that can solve the above problems.

[0083] Specifically, Figure 5 A partially exploded view of the battery 10 according to an embodiment of this application is shown, as follows: Figure 5 As shown, the battery 10 in this embodiment may include a battery cell group 201. For any battery cell group 201, the battery cell group 201 may include multiple battery cells 20. For example, Figure 5 Taking a single battery cell group 201 as an example, the battery cell group 201 may include 4 battery cells 20.

[0084] Specifically, for any given battery cell group 201, multiple battery cells 20 can be arranged in various ways. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, the battery cell group 201 may include N columns of battery cells, where N is a positive integer, and these N columns of battery cells are arranged along a first direction X, for example, Figure 5In the case of N=2, the battery cells 20 in each of the N battery cell columns can be arranged along the second direction Y, and the first direction X is perpendicular to the second direction Y.

[0085] like Figure 5 As shown, the battery 10 also includes a cooling system 30, which is disposed on the first surface 2111 of the battery cell assembly 201. It should be understood that, depending on the orientation of the multiple battery cells 20 within the housing 11 of the battery 10, the first surface 2111 can refer to any surface of the battery cell assembly 201. For example, taking each battery cell 20 as a cuboid, to increase the heat dissipation capacity of the battery cell 20, it can be done as follows: Figure 5 As shown, with the cooling system 30 positioned above the sidewall with the largest area, the side of the battery cell assembly 201 facing the cooling system 30 is the first surface 2111. This first surface 2111 is the surface with the largest area of ​​the battery cell assembly 201. For example, as... Figure 5 As shown, the first surface 2111 is perpendicular to the first direction X, which can increase the heat dissipation speed of the battery cell group 201 and achieve a better temperature regulation effect.

[0086] like Figure 5 As shown, the battery 10 may further include a signal transmission component 24 disposed on a second surface 2112 of the battery cell group 201, wherein the second surface 2112 is adjacent to the first surface 2111. Specifically, the signal transmission component 24 can be used to transmit voltage and / or temperature signals of the battery cell 20. For example, the signal transmission component 24 may include a bus member 241 and an insulating layer 242, the insulating layer 242 being used to encapsulate the bus member 241, the insulating layer 242 having an opening (not shown), the bus member 241 being used to electrically connect to the battery cell 20 in the battery cell group 201 at the opening.

[0087] Optionally, the insulating layer 242 in this embodiment can encapsulate the busbar component 241 by hot pressing, and by setting openings, the busbar component 241 can realize electrical connection between battery cells 20 in the battery cell group 201 through the openings.

[0088] In this embodiment, the signal transmission component 24 can be used to implement various forms of electrical connection between battery cells 20. For example, the electrical connection area within the battery 10 may include a region where a busbar 241 is provided. Additionally, a sensor for sensing the state of the battery cells 20 may be provided within the battery 10, and the electrical connection area within the battery 10 may also include a region where the sensor is provided. Optionally, the signal transmission component 24 in this embodiment may include a sensor, and the insulating layer 242 may be used to encapsulate the sensor.

[0089] Considering such Figure 5 The arrangement of the battery cell 20 and cooling system 30 shown can easily lead to condensation inside the battery 10 when it is in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment. Condensation, especially from the cooling system 30, may drip onto the electrical connection areas within the battery 10, for example, onto the busbar 241. This could cause a short circuit and battery failure, affecting the safety of the battery 10. Therefore, if... Figure 5 As shown, the battery 10 may further include a cover 25 for covering the signal transmission component 24 to prevent condensate generated by the cooling system 30 from reaching the signal transmission component 24.

[0090] Therefore, in the battery 10 of this application embodiment, a cooling system 30 is provided on the first surface 2111, and a signal transmission component 24 is provided on the second surface 2112 adjacent to the first surface 2111 to realize electrical connection between multiple battery cells 20. In addition, the battery 10 also includes a cover 25 to cover the signal transmission component 24. In this way, when the cooling system 30 generates condensate, the cover 25 can prevent the condensate from reaching the signal transmission component 24, so as to avoid short circuit of the battery 10 and improve the safety of the battery 10.

[0091] It should be understood that the covering 25 in the embodiments of this application can be configured in various ways, which will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0092] Optionally, as an embodiment, the covering 25 can be a cover plate capable of covering the second surface 2112 where the signal transmission component 24 is located. Specifically, as Figure 5 As shown, a cover plate 25 that can cover the second surface 2112 can be provided for the battery 10 as a covering member 25. Optionally, the cover plate 25 can be made of any insulating material. For example, the cover plate 25 can be made of the same or different insulating material as the insulating layer 242. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0093] Optionally, the cover 25 can be fixed to the battery cell pack 201 in various ways. For example, as Figure 5As shown, the cover plate 25 may include a first connecting region 251 for fixed connection with the first surface 2111; further, the cover plate 25 may also include a second connecting region 252 for fixed connection with the third surface 2113 of the battery cell assembly 201, wherein the third surface 2113 is parallel to the first surface 2111 and adjacent to the second surface 2112. The first connecting region 251 and / or the second connecting region 252 may be formed by bending the cover plate 25 at both ends in the first direction X. Specifically, when installing the cover plate 25, the cover plate 25 can be fixed to the second surface 2112 where the signal transmission component 24 is located through the first connecting area 251 and / or the second connecting area 252. For example, the first connecting area 251 and / or the second connecting area 252 can be fixed to the corresponding first surface 2111 and / or third surface 2113 respectively through adhesives such as double-sided tape. Then, the cooling system 30 can be fixed to the first surface 2111 through adhesives, thereby realizing the fixation of the cover plate 25 to the battery cell group 201 and the fixation of the cooling system 30 to the battery cell group 201. However, the embodiments of this application are not limited to this.

[0094] It should be understood that, such as Figure 5 As shown, the cover plate 25 of this application embodiment may also be provided with a drain trough 253 for draining condensate. For example, the condensate can be drained to a position away from the signal transmission component 24 through the drain trough 253. For example, the condensate can be drained to the bottom of the box 11 or discharged from the box 11.

[0095] Optionally, such as Figure 5 As shown, the cover plate 25 may also be provided with a manifold 254, which is connected to the drain trough 253. The manifold 254 is used to collect condensate and guide it into the drain trough 253. Specifically, the manifold 254 can be closer to the cooling system 30 than the drain trough 253 to facilitate the collection of condensate. The collected condensate is discharged to other locations through the drain trough 253 to avoid the condensate affecting the signal transmission component 24.

[0096] Alternatively, as another embodiment, the covering 25 in this application embodiment may also be part of the insulating layer 242. Specifically, Figure 6 Another exploded schematic diagram of some components of the battery 10 according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 7 for Figure 6 A diagram showing the assembled components. Figure 8 for Figure 7 A magnified view of a portion of region A in the middle. (See image below.) Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the covering 25 in this embodiment can also be formed by flipping the insulating layer 242. In this way, the covering 25 can be directly formed from the insulating layer 242, which simplifies the structure and facilitates processing.

[0097] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the insulating layer 242 extends towards the cooling system 30 to a position close to the cooling system 30, and then flips back at that position, that is, flips away from the cooling system 30 at that position to form a cover 25, thereby covering the second surface 2112. Specifically, when processing the signal transmission assembly 24, a portion of the insulating layer 242 can be reserved to flip and cover the second surface 2112. Then, when the insulating layer 242 and the busbar component 241 are processed into the signal transmission assembly 24 by means of hot pressing or the like, a portion of the insulating layer 242 encapsulates the busbar component 214 and fixes it to the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20, while the reserved portion of the insulating layer 242 can be flipped to form a cover 25 covering the second surface 2112, thereby achieving the effect of isolating condensate. This structure does not require additional components, the processing is simple, and it is easier to install.

[0098] Optionally, the flipped portion of the insulating layer 242 can be fixedly connected to the third surface 2113 of the battery cell assembly 201, thereby fixing the flipped portion to the battery cell assembly 201. For example, as Figure 6 As shown, the edge of the flipped portion of the insulating layer 242 may be provided with a folded edge area 2421, which is fixedly connected to the third surface 2113 through the folded edge area 2421, thereby realizing the fixation between the flipped portion of the insulating layer 242 and the battery cell assembly 201. For example, the folded edge area 2421 can be fixed to the third surface 2113 by adhesive.

[0099] Optionally, such as Figure 8 As shown, at the flip point, the insulating layer 242 can form an angled area 2422 with the second surface 2112 facing the cooling system 30. This angled area 2422 is configured to collect the adhesive used to bond the cooling system 30. In this way, when the cooling system 30 is fixed to the first surface 2111 by adhesive bonding, the angled area 2422 can serve as an overflow area to collect the overflowing excess adhesive and prevent the adhesive from affecting other components inside the battery 10.

[0100] It should be understood that, for any of the aforementioned covering members 25, the covering member 25 can be disposed within the coverage area of ​​the cooling system 30. Specifically, as... Figures 5 to 8 As shown, along the first direction X, the projection of the cooling system 30 can completely cover the projection of the cover 25, so that the cover 25 does not affect the installation of the cooling system 30, and the condensate generated by the cooling system 30 can be better blocked by the cover 25.

[0101] Optionally, in this embodiment of the application, the end of the cooling system 30 near the cover 25 may be inclined toward the cover 25. Specifically, as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, an inclined section 31 can be provided at the end of the cooling system 30 near the cover 25. The inclined section 31 is inclined toward the cover 25 so that the condensate generated on the surface of the cooling system 30 can slide off through the inclined section 31. This can prevent the condensate from accumulating on the surface of the cooling system 30 and being unable to drain. In addition, the inclined section 31 extends away from the signal transmission component 24, which can also prevent a large amount of condensate from dripping near the signal transmission component 24, thus improving the safety of the signal transmission component 24.

[0102] Therefore, in the battery 10 of this application embodiment, a cooling system 30 is provided on the first surface 2111, and a signal transmission component 24 is provided on the second surface 2112 adjacent to the first surface 2111 to realize electrical connection between multiple battery cells 20. In addition, the battery 10 also includes a cover 25 to cover the signal transmission component 24. In this way, when the cooling system 30 generates condensate, the cover 25 can prevent the condensate from reaching the signal transmission component 24, so as to avoid short circuit of the battery 10 and improve the safety of the battery 10.

[0103] One embodiment of this application also provides an electrical device that may include the battery 10 from the foregoing embodiments for providing electrical power to the device. Optionally, the electrical device may be a vehicle 1, a ship, or a spacecraft.

[0104] The foregoing described the battery and electrical 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.

[0105] Figure 9 A schematic flowchart of a method 300 for preparing a battery according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 9 As shown, the method 300 may include: 310, providing a battery cell assembly 201, the battery cell assembly 201 including a plurality of battery cells 20; 320, providing a cooling system 30, the cooling system 30 being disposed on a first surface 2111 of the battery cell assembly 201; 330, providing a signal transmission component 24, the signal transmission component 24 being disposed on a second surface 2112 of the battery cell assembly 201, the second surface 2112 being adjacent to the first surface 2111, the signal transmission component 24 including a busbar 241 and an insulating layer 242, the insulating layer 242 being used to encapsulate the busbar 241, the insulating layer 242 having an opening, the busbar 241 being used to electrically connect with the battery cells 20 in the battery cell assembly 201 at the opening; 340, providing a covering member 25, the covering member 25 being used to cover the signal transmission component 24 to prevent condensate generated by the cooling system 30 from reaching the signal transmission component 24.

[0106] Figure 10 A schematic block diagram of a battery manufacturing apparatus 400 according to one embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 10 As shown, the battery manufacturing apparatus 400 may include a providing module 410. The providing module 410 is used to: provide a battery cell assembly 201, the battery cell assembly 201 including a plurality of battery cells 20; provide a cooling system 30 disposed on a first surface 2111 of the battery cell assembly 201; provide a signal transmission component 24 disposed on a second surface 2112 of the battery cell assembly 201, the second surface 2112 being adjacent to the first surface 2111, the signal transmission component 24 including a busbar 241 and an insulating layer 242, the insulating layer 242 being used to encapsulate the busbar 241, the insulating layer 242 having an opening, the busbar 241 being used to electrically connect with the battery cells 20 in the battery cell assembly 201 at the opening; and provide a covering member 25, the covering member 25 being used to cover the signal transmission component 24 to prevent condensate generated by the cooling system 30 from reaching the signal transmission component 24.

[0107] Although this application has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications can be made thereto and components can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of this application. In particular, the technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any manner, provided there is no structural conflict. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A battery, characterized by, The application relates to a battery monomer group (201) comprising a plurality of battery monomers (20), a cooling system (30) arranged on a first surface (2111) of the battery monomer group (201), a signal transmission assembly (24) arranged on a second surface (2112) of the battery monomer group (201), the second surface (2112) being adjacent to the first surface (2111), the signal transmission assembly (24) comprising a busbar component (241) and an insulating layer (242), the insulating layer (242) being used for encapsulating the busbar component (241), the insulating layer (242) having an opening, and the busbar component (241) being used for electrically connecting with the battery monomers (20) in the battery monomer group (201) at the opening, a cladding member (25) used for cladding the signal transmission assembly (24) to block condensate generated by the cooling system (30) from reaching the signal transmission assembly (24), wherein the insulating layer (242) extends to a position close to the cooling system (30) and is turned over at the position to form the cladding member (25) away from the cooling system (30). The turned-over part of the insulating layer (242) is fixedly connected with a third surface (2113) of the battery monomer group (201), and the third surface (2113) is parallel to the first surface (2111). An edge of the turned-over part of the insulating layer (242) is provided with a hem region (2421) used for fixedly connecting with the third surface (2113). The insulating layer (242) forms an included angle area (2422) with the second surface (2112) at the turning-over position, the included angle area (2422) being configured to collect adhesive used for bonding the cooling system (30). The cladding member (25) is a cover plate cladding the second surface (2112). The cover plate comprises a first connecting region (251) used for fixedly connecting with the first surface (2111).

2. The battery of claim 1, wherein, The cover plate further comprises a second connecting region (252) used for fixedly connecting with a third surface (2113) of the battery monomer group (201), and the third surface (2113) is parallel to the first surface (2111).

3. The battery of claim 2, wherein, The cover plate is provided with a drainage groove (253) used for draining the condensate.

4. The battery of claim 1, wherein, The cover plate is further provided with a busbar groove (254) in communication with the drainage groove (253), and the busbar groove (254) is used for collecting the condensate and guiding the condensate into the drainage groove (253).

5. The battery of claim 1, wherein, The cover plate is made of an insulating material.

6. The battery of claim 5, wherein, The battery monomer group (201) comprises N battery monomer columns arranged along a first direction, and the battery monomers (20) in each of the N battery monomer columns are arranged along a second direction, the first direction being perpendicular to the second direction, and N is a positive integer.

7. The battery of claim 6, wherein, ​ 8. The battery of claim 5, wherein, ​ 9. The battery of claim 8, wherein, ​ 10. The battery of claim 5, wherein, ​ 11. The battery of any one of claims 1-10, wherein, ​ The first surface (2111) is perpendicular to the first direction, and the second surface (2112) is parallel to a plane determined by the first direction and the second direction.

12. The battery of any one of claims 1-10, wherein, In the first direction, a projection of the cooling system (30) covers a projection of the cladding (25), and the first surface (2111) is perpendicular to the first direction.

13. The battery of any one of claims 1-10, wherein, The cooling system (30) is arranged to be inclined towards the cladding (25) near an end of the cladding (25).

14. An electrical device, characterized by The method comprises: The battery according to any one of claims 1 to 13 is used to provide electric energy.

15. A method of making a battery, characterized by, The method comprises: A battery cell group (201) is provided, and the battery cell group (201) comprises a plurality of battery cells (20). A cooling system (30) is provided, and the cooling system (30) is arranged on a first surface (2111) of the battery cell group (201). A signal transmission assembly (24) is provided, and the signal transmission assembly (24) is arranged on a second surface (2112) of the battery cell group (201), the second surface (2112) is adjacent to the first surface (2111), the signal transmission assembly (24) comprises a busbar component (241) and an insulating layer (242), the insulating layer (242) is used to encapsulate the busbar component (241), the insulating layer (242) has an opening, and the busbar component (241) is used to be electrically connected with the battery cell (20) in the battery cell group (201) at the opening. A cladding (25) is provided, and the cladding (25) is used to clad the signal transmission assembly (24) to block condensate generated by the cooling system (30) from reaching the signal transmission assembly (24). The insulating layer (242) extends to a position close to the cooling system (30) and is turned in a direction away from the cooling system (30) at the position to form the cladding (25).

16. An apparatus for making a battery, characterized by The method comprises: The method comprises: A battery cell group (201) is provided, and the battery cell group (201) comprises a plurality of battery cells (20). A cooling system (30) is provided, and the cooling system (30) is arranged on a first surface (2111) of the battery cell group (201). A signal transmission assembly (24) is provided, and the signal transmission assembly (24) is arranged on a second surface (2112) of the battery cell group (201), the second surface (2112) is adjacent to the first surface (2111), the signal transmission assembly (24) comprises a busbar component (241) and an insulating layer (242), the insulating layer (242) is used to encapsulate the busbar component (241), the insulating layer (242) has an opening, and the busbar component (241) is used to be electrically connected with the battery cell (20) in the battery cell group (201) at the opening. A cladding (25) is provided, and the cladding (25) is used to clad the signal transmission assembly (24) to block condensate generated by the cooling system (30) from reaching the signal transmission assembly (24). The insulating layer (242) extends to a position close to the cooling system (30) and is turned over in a direction away from the cooling system (30) to form the cover (25).

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