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

Abstract

The application provides a battery monomer, a battery, an electric device, and a method and device for preparing a battery monomer. The battery monomer comprises: an electrode assembly; a shell; a cover plate covering the shell to enclose the electrode assembly in the shell, the cover plate and the bottom wall are oppositely arranged along a third direction, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other; a first electrode terminal comprising a first part and a second part, the first electrode terminal is arranged at the first end of the shell and extends along the second direction, and the first part is connected with the first tab; wherein the shell is recessed in the edge area of the first end to form a first accommodation space outside the shell, and the second part extends out of the shell along the second direction and extends to the first accommodation space. The battery monomer, the battery, the electric device, and the method and device for preparing a battery monomer can improve the space utilization of the battery monomer.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Energy conservation and emission reduction are key to the sustainable development of the automotive industry. In this context, electric vehicles, due to their energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages, have become an important component of the automotive industry's sustainable development. And for electric vehicles, battery technology is a crucial factor in their development.

[0003] To adapt to people's fast-paced travel habits, batteries need to meet the demands of fast charging during use. This necessitates increasing the capacity of individual battery cells, which may alter their size and require more storage space. Therefore, improving the space utilization rate of individual battery cells has become a problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a battery cell, a battery, an electrical device, and a method and apparatus for preparing a battery cell, which can improve the space utilization of the battery cell.

[0005] In a first aspect, a battery cell is provided, comprising: an electrode assembly; a housing, the housing including a pair of first sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a first direction, a pair of second sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a second direction, and a bottom wall, wherein a first electrode tab of the electrode assembly is disposed at a first end of the housing in the first direction, and the area of ​​the bottom wall is greater than the areas of the first sidewalls and the second sidewalls; a cover plate, covering the housing to enclose the electrode assembly within the housing, the cover plate and the bottom wall being disposed opposite each other along a third direction, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction being perpendicular to each other; a first electrode terminal including a first portion and a second portion, the first electrode terminal being disposed at the first end of the housing and extending along the second direction, the first portion being connected to the first electrode tab; wherein the housing is recessed in the edge region of the first end to form a first accommodating space outside the housing, and the second portion extends out of the housing along the second direction and into the first accommodating space.

[0006] In this embodiment, since the first electrode terminal of the battery cell can be accommodated in the first accommodating space formed by the recess of the edge area of ​​the first end of the housing along the first direction X, the first electrode terminal can be hidden without occupying the space of the battery cell in all directions, thereby improving the space utilization rate and facilitating the promotion and use of electrical equipment.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the battery cell further includes an insulating support disposed at the first end and located between the electrode assembly and the housing, the insulating support being used to support the first tab and the first electrode terminal.

[0008] In this embodiment, by providing an insulating support in the battery cell, the first tab and the first electrode terminal can be supported inside the casing, thereby reducing the shaking of the first tab and the first electrode terminal, preventing the tab from breaking or the first electrode terminal from becoming loose, and making the structure of the battery cell more stable.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the insulating support is provided with a receiving groove, and a support portion is provided in the receiving groove to support the first tab and the first electrode terminal. The first portion is connected to the first tab in the receiving groove, and the second portion extends out from the side wall of the receiving groove to pass through the housing and extend into the first receiving space.

[0010] In this embodiment, when the first tab is supported by the support portion in the receiving groove of the insulating bracket, the first tab can share space with the insulating bracket without occupying extra space, making the structure of the battery cell more compact and thus improving the space utilization rate of the battery cell.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the insulating support abuts against the electrode assembly in the first direction to secure the electrode assembly in that first direction.

[0012] In this embodiment, by abutting the electrode assembly against the insulating support in the first direction, the electrode assembly can be positioned, thereby improving the structural stability of the battery cell.

[0013] In one possible implementation, in the first direction, the length of the support portion is less than the length of the insulating bracket, so as to form a clearance space between the support portion and the electrode assembly, the clearance space being used to avoid the folded portion of the first electrode tab.

[0014] In this embodiment, by designing the length of the support portion in the first direction to have a length difference with the length of the insulating bracket in the first direction, a clearance space is formed for accommodating the folded portion of the first electrode tab, which can avoid damage to the first electrode tab and improve the service life of the battery cell.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the first sidewall at the first end of the housing includes a first facet, a second facet, and a transition surface. The first facet and the second facet are connected by the transition surface. Both the first facet and the second facet are perpendicular to the first direction, and the first facet is closer to the middle position of the housing in the first direction than the second facet. The first facet, the second facet, and the transition surface form the first accommodating space. The second portion extends through the transition surface along the second direction and extends into the first accommodating space.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the transition surface is provided with a first opening, the second part extends through the first opening to the first accommodating space, and the battery cell further includes a sealing ring for sealing the gap between the second part and the first opening.

[0017] The sealing ring prevents electrolyte leakage from the casing, thereby improving the safety of the battery cell.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the inner side of the sealing ring protrudes axially from the outer side of the sealing ring, and the inner side of the sealing ring is embedded in the first opening.

[0019] This embodiment can further improve the sealing performance of the sealing ring.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the first electrode terminal further includes a boss disposed between the first part and the second part. The outer contour dimension of the cross-section of the boss is larger than the size of the first opening. The boss is disposed inside the housing. The battery cell further includes a locking part disposed outside the housing. The locking part engages with the second part and cooperates with the boss to fix the first electrode terminal.

[0021] By using a boss and a locking part to fix the first electrode terminal, the first electrode terminal can be limited, thereby increasing the structural stability of the battery cell.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the second part is provided with a slot, the engaging part is fitted around the outer periphery of the second part, and the inner periphery of the engaging part is provided with a locking block that engages with the slot.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the first part and the second part are sheet-like, and the surfaces of the first part and the second part are substantially parallel to the bottom wall of the housing.

[0024] In this embodiment, the first portion of the first electrode terminal connected to the first tab and the second portion connected to the busbar are made into a sheet shape. This allows the first tab and the busbar to be directly connected to the first electrode terminal without the need for connecting components. This simplifies the components and reduces the problems of increased resistance and unstable electrical connections caused by internal electrical connection transitions. In addition, reducing the space occupied by connecting components allows for larger tabs and electrode terminals, resulting in stronger current carrying capacity.

[0025] The first part and the first electrode are stacked as a flat plate structure after assembly. Therefore, the first part and the first electrode can be connected by ultrasonic welding, which can reduce the generation of metal shavings.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the second tab of the electrode assembly is disposed at the second end of the housing in the first direction, and the battery cell further includes: a second electrode terminal including a third part and a fourth part, the second electrode terminal being disposed at the second end and extending along the second direction, the third part being connected to the second tab; wherein, the housing is recessed in the edge region of the second end to form a second accommodating space outside the housing, and the fourth part extending through the housing along the second direction and into the second accommodating space.

[0027] In this embodiment, both the positive electrode terminal and the negative electrode terminal are hidden within the accommodating space of this application embodiment, which can effectively improve the space utilization of the battery cell, thereby increasing the energy density of the battery.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the first accommodating space and the second accommodating space are symmetrically arranged with respect to the diagonal of the housing or the centerline of the housing in a first direction.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the first accommodating space extends through the housing in a third direction.

[0030] In this embodiment, the first accommodating space extends through the housing in a third direction, which facilitates the assembly of battery cells. For example, a U-shaped busbar can be used to connect the second portion of the first electrode terminals of two adjacent battery cells. This busbar can be completely hidden inside the first accommodating space without occupying additional space.

[0031] In a second aspect, a battery is provided, comprising a plurality of battery cells in the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof, the plurality of battery cells being arranged along a third direction, the battery further comprising: a busbar for connecting the second portion of the first electrode terminals of two adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

[0032] By incorporating the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect into the battery cell, it is advantageous to conceal the busbar component within the first accommodating space of the battery cell without requiring additional assembly space for the battery cell, thereby increasing the energy density of the battery.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the busbar includes a body extending along the third direction and two connecting portions formed by bending from both ends of the body along the first direction, the two connecting portions being respectively connected to the second portion of the first electrode terminal of two adjacent battery cells.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the two connecting portions are formed by bending from both ends of the body along the first direction away from the battery.

[0035] In this embodiment, setting the opening of the busbar component to face away from the battery can reduce space occupation.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the second portion of the first electrode terminal is sheet-like, and the surface of the second portion is parallel to the bottom wall of the housing; the two connecting portions respectively connect the second portions of the first electrode terminals of two adjacent battery cells to adjacent surfaces in the third direction, or opposite surfaces, or surfaces on the same side.

[0037] In this embodiment, since the busbar component and the first electrode terminal are stacked in a flat plate structure after assembly, they can be connected by ultrasonic welding, thereby reducing the generation of metal shavings.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the thickness of the connecting portion is less than the thickness of the body.

[0039] In this embodiment, since the thickness of the connecting part is less than the thickness of the main body, it is equivalent to thinning the two connecting parts, making it easier to bend the busbar component.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the body is provided with reinforcing ribs.

[0041] In this embodiment, reinforcing ribs are provided on the body, thereby improving the strength of the busbar component.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the reinforcing rib is parallel to the second direction.

[0043] In one possible implementation, an insulating layer is provided on the surface of the body facing the battery, or the body is wrapped with an insulating material.

[0044] In this embodiment, an insulating layer or insulating material is provided on the surface of the body facing the battery, which can prevent electrical contact between the busbar component and the first electrode terminal of the battery cell, thereby improving the safety of the battery.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the insulating layer includes an insulating patch or an insulating coating.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the connecting part is connected to the second part by ultrasonic welding.

[0047] In this embodiment, since the connecting part and the second part are connected by ultrasonic welding, the generation of metal shavings can be reduced.

[0048] Thirdly, an electrical device is provided, comprising: a battery as described in the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof, the battery being used to provide electrical energy.

[0049] Fourthly, a method for manufacturing a battery cell is provided, comprising: providing an electrode assembly; providing a housing, the housing including a pair of first sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a first direction, a pair of second sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a second direction, and a bottom wall, wherein a first electrode tab of the electrode assembly is disposed at a first end of the housing in the first direction, and the area of ​​the bottom wall is greater than the areas of the first sidewalls and the second sidewalls; providing a cover plate to cover the housing to enclose the electrode assembly within the housing, the cover plate and the bottom wall being disposed opposite each other along a third direction, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction being perpendicular to each other; a first electrode terminal including a first portion and a second portion, the first electrode terminal being disposed at the first end of the housing and extending along the second direction, the first portion being connected to the first electrode tab; wherein the housing is recessed in the edge region of the first end to form a first accommodating space outside the housing, and the second portion extends through the housing along the second direction and into the first accommodating space.

[0050] Fifthly, an apparatus for manufacturing a battery cell is provided, comprising: a providing module for: providing an electrode assembly; providing a housing, the housing including a pair of first sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a first direction, a pair of second sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a second direction, and a bottom wall, wherein a first tab of the electrode assembly is disposed at a first end of the housing in the first direction, and the area of ​​the bottom wall is greater than the areas of the first sidewalls and the second sidewalls; providing a cover plate for covering the housing to enclose the electrode assembly within the housing, the cover plate and the bottom wall being disposed opposite each other along a third direction, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction being perpendicular to each other; a first electrode terminal including a first portion and a second portion, the first electrode terminal being disposed at the first end of the housing and extending along the second direction, the first portion being connected to the first tab; wherein the housing is recessed in the edge region of the first end to form a first accommodating space outside the housing, and the second portion extends through the housing along the second direction and into the first accommodating space. Attached Figure Description

[0051] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the drawings without creative effort.

[0052] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle disclosed in one embodiment of this application.

[0053] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery disclosed in one embodiment of this application.

[0054] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery cell disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0055] Figure 4 This is an exploded schematic diagram of a single battery cell disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0056] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery cell disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0057] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery cell disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0058] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an insulating support disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0059] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrode assembly disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0060] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sealing ring disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0061] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrode terminal disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0062] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the engaging part disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0063] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery disclosed in one embodiment of this application.

[0064] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a busbar component disclosed in an embodiment of this application.

[0065] Figure 14a This is a schematic diagram showing the installation positions of the busbar component and electrode terminals according to an embodiment of this application.

[0066] Figure 14b This is a schematic diagram showing the installation positions of the busbar component and electrode terminals as disclosed in another embodiment of this application.

[0067] Figure 14c This is a schematic diagram showing the installation positions of the busbar component and electrode terminals as disclosed in another embodiment of this application.

[0068] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a busbar component disclosed in another embodiment of this application.

[0069] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a busbar component disclosed in another embodiment of this application.

[0070] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a busbar component disclosed in another embodiment of this application.

[0071] Figure 18 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a method for preparing a battery cell according to an embodiment of this application.

[0072] Figure 19 This is a schematic block diagram of an apparatus for preparing a single battery cell according to an embodiment of this application.

[0073] The accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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 specification 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 specification, claims, and foregoing drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, or foregoing drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three possibilities: A exists, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0079] In this application, "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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 module or a battery pack. A battery generally includes a housing for encapsulating one or more battery cells. The housing prevents liquids or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells.

[0082] A battery cell includes an electrode assembly and an electrolyte. The electrode assembly consists of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. The battery cell primarily functions by the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrodes. The positive electrode includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer. The positive active material layer is coated on the surface of the positive current collector, and the uncoated current collector protrudes beyond the coated current collector, serving 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, and the uncoated current collector protrudes beyond the coated current collector, serving 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.

[0083] The battery casing may also include a signal transmission component. This component 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 electrical connections between multiple battery cells, such as in parallel, series, or mixed connections. The busbar can establish electrical connections between battery cells by connecting to 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."

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] For example, such as Figure 1The 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 80, a controller 60, and a battery 100 can be installed inside vehicle 1. The controller 60 controls the battery 100 to supply power to the motor 80. For example, the battery 100 can be installed at the bottom, front, or rear of vehicle 1. The battery 100 can be used to power vehicle 1. For example, the battery 100 can serve as the operating power source for vehicle 1, for example, for the electrical system of vehicle 1, such as for the power requirements of vehicle 1's starting, navigation, and operation. In another embodiment of this application, the battery 100 can not only serve as the operating power source for vehicle 1, but also as the driving power source for vehicle 1, replacing or partially replacing gasoline or natural gas to provide driving power for vehicle 1.

[0089] To meet diverse power demands, a battery can comprise multiple individual cells, which can be connected in series, parallel, or a combination of both. A battery can also be called a battery pack. Optionally, multiple individual cells can first be connected in series, parallel, or a combination of both to form a battery module, and then multiple battery modules can be connected in series, parallel, or a combination of both to form a battery. In other words, multiple individual cells can be directly assembled into a battery, or they can first be assembled into battery modules, and then the battery modules can be assembled into a battery.

[0090] For example, such as Figure 2 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a battery 100 according to an embodiment of this application. The battery 100 may include multiple battery cells 20. The battery 100 may also include a housing (or cover), the interior of which is a hollow structure, and the multiple battery cells 20 are housed within the housing. Figure 2 As shown, the housing may include two parts, referred to here as the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112, which are fastened together. The shapes of the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 can be determined according to the combined shape of multiple battery cells 20. Both the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 may have an opening. For example, both the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 may be hollow cuboids with only one open face. The openings of the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 are opposite to each other, and the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112 are fastened together to form a housing with a closed cavity. Multiple battery cells 20 are connected in parallel, series, or mixed configurations and placed inside the housing formed by the fastening of the first sub-part 111 and the second sub-part 112.

[0091] Optionally, the battery 100 may also include other structures, which will not be described in detail here. For example, the battery 100 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.

[0092] 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 mixed to achieve a larger capacity or power. Since each battery 100 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.

[0093] like Figure 3 The 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 a cover plate 212. The walls of the housing 211 and the cover plate 212 are both referred to as the walls of the battery cell 20. The shape of the housing 211 depends on the combined shape of the one or more electrode assemblies 22. For example, the housing 211 can be a hollow cuboid, cube, or cylinder, and one side 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 surface, meaning that 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 surface, meaning that this end face does not have a wall, allowing communication between the inside and outside of the housing 211. The cover plate 212 covers the opening and is connected to the housing 211 to form a closed cavity for placing the electrode assemblies 22. The casing 211 is filled with an electrolyte, such as an electrolyte solution.

[0094] The battery cell 20 may also include two electrode terminals 214, which can be disposed on a cover plate 212. The cover plate 212 is typically flat, and the two electrode terminals 214 are fixed to the flat surface of the cover plate 212. The two electrode terminals 214 are a positive electrode terminal 214a and a negative electrode terminal 214b, respectively. Each electrode terminal 214 is provided with a corresponding connecting member 23, or a current collector 23, which is located between the cover plate 212 and the electrode assembly 22, and is used to electrically connect the electrode assembly 22 and the electrode terminal 214.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] As an example, one wall of battery cell 20, such as Figure 3 A pressure relief mechanism 213 may also be installed on the first wall 21a shown. For ease of demonstration, Figure 3 The first wall 21a is separated from the housing 211, but this does not limit the bottom side of the housing 211 to have an opening. The pressure relief mechanism 213 is actuated to release the internal pressure or temperature when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell 20 reaches a threshold.

[0098] Optionally, in one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, when the pressure relief mechanism 213 is provided on the first wall 21a of the battery cell 20, electrode terminals 214 are provided on the other walls of the battery cell 20, and the other walls are different from the first wall 21a.

[0099] Optionally, the wall where the electrode terminal 214 is disposed is disposed opposite to the first wall 21a. For example, the first wall 21a can be the bottom wall of the battery cell 20, and the wall where the electrode terminal 214 is disposed can be the top wall of the battery cell 20, i.e., the cover plate 212.

[0100] from Figure 3 As can be seen, regardless of which wall the electrode terminal 214 is located on in the battery cell 20, the electrode terminal protrudes from the battery cell 20 itself. In addition, the current-connecting components that connect different battery cells 20 also protrude from the battery cell 20, requiring additional battery housing space for placement, which in turn affects the energy density of the battery pack.

[0101] In view of this, the present application provides a technical solution in which the casing of the battery cell is recessed in the edge area at the end to form an accommodating space outside the casing. The electronic terminals are disposed in the accommodating space, thereby hiding the electrode terminals without occupying additional space, thereby improving the space utilization of the battery cell and reducing the impact on the energy density of the battery.

[0102] Figure 4 A schematic exploded view of a battery cell 30 provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 4 As shown, the battery cell 30 includes: an electrode assembly 32, which includes a first tab 321 protruding along a first direction X; a housing 31 for accommodating the electrode assembly 32, wherein the first tab 321 of the electrode assembly 32 is disposed at a first end 311 of the housing 31 in the first direction X, and the housing 31 is recessed in the edge region of the first end 311 to form a first accommodating space 312 outside the housing 31; and a first electrode terminal 314 disposed at the first end 311 of the housing 31, i.e., the first electrode terminal 314 and the first tab 321 are disposed at the same end of the housing 31, the first electrode terminal 314 extends along a second direction Y, and the first electrode terminal 314 includes a first portion 3141 and a second portion 3142, wherein the first portion 3141 is connected to the first tab 321, and the second portion 3142 extends through the housing 31 along the second direction Y and extends to the first accommodating space 312. The first direction X is parallel to the bottom wall 313 of the housing 31, the second direction Y is parallel to the bottom wall 313 of the housing 31, and the first direction X and the second direction Y are perpendicular to each other.

[0103] As an example, such as Figure 4 As shown, the housing 31 of the battery cell 30 has a square structure, that is, the housing 31 includes two first sidewalls 315 arranged opposite each other along the first direction X, two second sidewalls 316 arranged opposite each other along the second direction Y, and a bottom wall 313. The battery cell 30 also includes a cover plate 37, which covers the housing 31 to enclose the electrode assembly 32 inside the housing 31. The cover plate 37 and the bottom wall 313 of the housing 31 are arranged opposite each other along the third direction Z, and the first direction X, the second direction Y and the third direction Z are perpendicular to each other.

[0104] Optionally, the area of ​​the bottom wall 313 is larger than the area of ​​the first side wall 315, and the area of ​​the bottom wall 313 is also larger than the area of ​​the second side wall 316. That is, the area of ​​the cover plate 37 is larger than the area of ​​the first side wall 315, and the area of ​​the cover plate 37 is larger than the area of ​​the second side wall 316.

[0105] And further still, such as Figure 5As shown, the first sidewall 315 disposed at the first end 311 of the housing 31 includes a first facet 315a, a second facet 315b, and a transition surface 315c. The first facet 315a and the second facet 315b are connected by the transition surface 315c. The first facet 315a and the second facet 315b are both perpendicular to the bottom wall 313. The first facet 315a is closer to the middle position of the housing 31 in the first direction X than the second facet 315b. The first facet 315a, the second facet 315b, and the transition surface 315c together form the first accommodating space 312. The second part 3142 extends through the transition surface 315c along the second direction Y and extends into the first accommodating space 312.

[0106] Optionally, the sum of the areas of the first facet 315a and the second facet 315b is less than the area of ​​the second sidewall 316, and the sum of the areas of the first facet 315a and the second facet 315b is less than the area of ​​the bottom wall 313. In other words, the projected area of ​​the first sidewall 315 along the first direction is less than that of the bottom wall 313 and the second sidewall 316. Increasing the size of the housing 31 along the second direction has the least impact on the change in the volume of the housing 31, thereby hiding the electrode terminals in the accommodating space formed by the first sidewall 315, which can further reduce the impact on the energy density of the battery.

[0107] Alternatively, in this embodiment, the housing 31 may also be other structures, such as a cylindrical structure, as long as a first accommodating space 312 is formed in the edge region of the housing 31 and the first electrode terminal 314 is disposed in the first accommodating space 312.

[0108] Optionally, in the embodiments of this application, the first portion 3141 and the second portion 3142 of the first electrode terminal 314 are both sheet-like, and the surfaces of the first portion 3141 and the second portion 3142 are substantially parallel to the bottom wall 313 of the housing 31.

[0109] By making the first portion 3141, which connects to the first tab 321, and the second portion 3142, which connects to the busbar, of the first electrode terminal 314 into a sheet shape, the first tab 321 and the busbar can be directly connected to the first electrode terminal 314 without the need for connecting components. This simplifies the components and reduces the problems of increased resistance and unstable electrical connections caused by internal electrical connection transitions. In addition, reducing the space occupied by connecting components allows for larger tabs and electrode terminals, resulting in stronger current carrying capacity.

[0110] Optionally, in this embodiment of the application, the first part 3141 and the first electrode 321 are stacked as a flat plate structure after assembly. Therefore, the first part 3141 and the first electrode 321 can be connected by ultrasonic welding, thereby reducing the generation of metal shavings.

[0111] Figure 6 Another schematic exploded view of the battery cell 30 provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. (See attached image.) Figure 6 As shown, the battery cell 30 also includes an insulating support 33, which is disposed at the first end 311 and located between the electrode assembly 32 and the housing 31. The insulating support 33 is used to support the first tab 321 and the first electrode terminal 314.

[0112] By providing an insulating support 33 in the battery cell 30, the first tab 321 and the first electrode terminal 314 can be supported in the housing 31, thereby reducing the shaking of the first tab 321 and the first electrode terminal 314, preventing the tab 321 from breaking or the first electrode terminal 314 from becoming loose, and making the structure of the battery cell 30 more stable.

[0113] Furthermore, the insulating bracket 33 is used to support the first tab 321 and the first portion 3141 of the first electrode terminal 314. Optionally, as... Figure 6 As shown, the insulating support is provided with a receiving groove 331 for receiving the first electrode tab 321, and the first part 3141 is connected to the first electrode tab 321 in the receiving groove 331. The second part 3142 of the first electrode terminal 341 extends out from the side wall of the receiving groove 331 to pass through the housing 31 and extend to the first receiving space 312.

[0114] When the first tab 321 is located within the receiving groove 331 of the insulating support, the first tab 321 can share space with the insulating support 33 without occupying extra space, making the structure of the battery cell 30 more compact and thus improving the space utilization rate of the battery cell 30. Furthermore, the electrode terminals share the space occupied by the battery cell 30 in the first direction with the tabs, and the electrode terminals do not occupy additional space in the first direction, reducing the additional space occupied by the battery casing and improving the energy density of the battery.

[0115] Optionally, during assembly, the insulating bracket 33 abuts against the electrode assembly 32 in the first direction X to fix the electrode assembly 32 in the first direction X. For example, as Figure 7As shown, the receiving groove 331 is provided with a support portion 3311, which supports the first tab 321 and the first electrode terminal 314. The receiving groove 331 also includes two side walls 3312 and a rear wall 3313 arranged opposite each other along the second direction Y. The support portion 3311 is parallel to the bottom wall 313 of the housing 31, and the rear wall 3313 is perpendicular to the first direction X and close to the first side wall 315 of the housing 31. The end of the first tab 321 of the electrode assembly 32 abuts against the rear wall 3313 of the insulating support 33, thereby limiting the position of the electrode assembly and improving the structural stability of the battery cell.

[0116] Optionally, cavities can be provided in the insulating support 33, such as Figure 7 As shown, this reduces the weight of the insulating support 33, thereby reducing the weight of the individual battery cells.

[0117] When the insulating support 33 comes into contact with the electrode assembly 32 along the first direction X, it may cause damage to part of the electrode tab 321, for example, to Figure 8 The retracted portion 321a of the first tab 321 shown is damaged. Therefore, in one implementation, such as... Figure 7 As shown, in the first direction, the length of the support portion 3311 of the receiving groove 331 is less than the length of the insulating bracket 33, that is, there is a length difference between the support portion 3311 of the receiving groove 331 and the insulating bracket 33 in the first direction. This allows a clearance space to be formed between the support portion 3311 and the electrode assembly 32, which is used to avoid the folded portion 321a of the first electrode tab 321. In this way, by designing the support portion 3311 of the receiving groove 331 and the insulating bracket 33 to have a length difference in the first direction to form a clearance space for accommodating the folded portion 321a of the first electrode tab 321, damage to the first electrode tab 321 can be avoided, and the service life of the battery cell 30 can be improved.

[0118] Optionally, in the embodiments of this application, such as Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the first accommodating space 312 can penetrate the housing 31 along a third direction Z, which is perpendicular to the bottom wall of the housing 31. In other words, the transition surface 315c included in the first side wall 315 of the first end 311 of the housing 31 is a plane.

[0119] The first accommodating space 312 extends through the housing 31 in a third direction, facilitating the assembly of the battery cells 30. For example, a U-shaped busbar can be used to connect the second portion 3142 of the first electrode terminals 314 of two adjacent battery cells 30. This busbar can be completely hidden inside the first accommodating space without occupying additional space. The connection between the battery cells 30 will be described in detail below and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0120] In one implementation, such as Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the transition surface 315c can be perpendicular to the second direction Y.

[0121] In other implementations, the transition surface 315c may not be perpendicular to the second direction. For example, the angle between the transition surface 315c and the first dividing surface 315a and the second dividing surface 315b may not be 90 degrees.

[0122] Of course, in this embodiment, the first accommodating space 312 may not penetrate the housing 31 along the third direction Z. That is, the transition surface 315c included in the first sidewall 315 of the housing 31 at the first end 311 is an L-shaped fold. For example, an inverted step structure can be formed by recessing from the bottom wall 313 of the housing 31 at the first end 311 along the third direction, and this inverted step structure forms the first accommodating space 312. In this embodiment, when the battery cells 30 are assembled, a U-shaped busbar can also be used to connect the second part 3142 of the first electrode terminals 314 of two adjacent battery cells 30, and the busbar needs to cross the part of the housing 31 of the battery cell 30 that is not penetrated in the third direction.

[0123] Optionally, such as Figure 6 As shown, the transition surface 315c is provided with a first opening (not shown in the figure), and the second part 3142 of the first electrode terminal 314 extends to the first accommodating space 312 through the first opening. The battery cell 30 also includes a sealing ring 34, which is used to seal the gap between the second part 3142 and the first opening.

[0124] The sealing ring 34 can prevent electrolyte leakage inside the housing 31, thereby improving the safety of the battery cell.

[0125] Optionally, in embodiments of this application, to further improve the sealing performance of the sealing ring 34, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the inner side 341 of the sealing ring 34 can protrude from the outer side 342 of the sealing ring 34 in the axial direction, and the inner side 341 of the sealing ring 34 can be embedded in the first opening of the transition surface 315c.

[0126] Optionally, such as Figure 10 As shown, the first electrode terminal 314 also includes a boss 3143, which is disposed between the first part 3141 and the second part 3142. The outer contour dimension of the cross-section of the boss is larger than the size of the first opening of the transition surface 315c. The boss 3143 is disposed inside the housing 31.

[0127] Furthermore, such as Figure 6As shown, the battery cell 30 also includes a locking part 35, which is disposed on the outside of the housing 31. The locking part 35 engages with the second part 3142 and cooperates with the boss 3143 to fix the first electrode terminal.

[0128] Optionally, in this embodiment, the second portion 3142 may be further provided with a slot, and the inner periphery of the engaging portion 35 is provided with a locking block 351 that engages with the slot, such as... Figure 11 As shown. The engaging part 35 is fitted around the outer periphery of the second part 3142, and the locking block 351 is embedded in the locking groove on the second part 3142.

[0129] Optionally, in the embodiments of this application, the first part 3141, the second part 3142, and the boss 3143 can be integrally formed. Alternatively, the first part 3141 and the second part 3142 can be integrally formed, while the boss 3143 is an independent component. For example, the boss 3143 can also be a snap-fit ​​portion 35 fitted onto the first part 3141.

[0130] By using the boss 3143 and the engaging part 35 to fix the first electrode terminal 314, the first electrode terminal 314 can be limited in the second direction Y, thereby increasing the structural stability of the battery cell 30.

[0131] Optionally, in this embodiment, since a boss 3143 is provided between the first portion 3141 and the second portion 3142 of the first electrode terminal 314, therefore, as Figure 7 As shown, a stepped structure can be provided between the side wall 3312 of the insulating bracket 33 near the boss 3143 and the support portion 3311 of the insulating bracket 33, so that the boss 3143 can be accommodated in the space formed by the stepped structure, so that the surfaces of the first part 3141 and the second part 3142 of the first electrode terminal 314 can be parallel to the bottom wall of the housing 31, and the first tab 321 and the first part 3141 can be in flat contact.

[0132] In addition, since the second part 3142 of the first electrode terminal 314 needs to protrude through the housing, the side wall 3312 of the insulating bracket 33 also needs to be provided with a second opening 3314. The second part 3142 extends through the second opening 3314 and through the first opening (not shown in the figure) of the transition surface 315c to the first accommodating space 312.

[0133] Optionally, the engaging portion 35 can also be made of plastic. That is, when the second portion 3142 extends from the first opening to the first receiving space 312, glue can be injected along the outer periphery of the first opening. After the glue is fixed, the first electrode terminal 314 is fixed together with the boss 3143 at the position of the first electrode terminal 314 in the second direction Y.

[0134] Optionally, such as Figure 6 As shown, the housing 31 can have the same structure at both ends in the first direction X. For example, the second tab of the electrode assembly 32 is disposed at the second end of the housing 31 in the first direction X. The battery cell 30 also includes a second electrode terminal, including a third part and a fourth part. The second electrode terminal is disposed at the second end and extends along the second direction Y. The third part is connected to the second tab. The housing 31 is recessed in the edge region of the second end to form a second accommodating space outside the housing 31. The fourth part extends out of the housing 31 along the second direction Y and into the second accommodating space.

[0135] It should be noted that the structure and assembly of the second electrode terminal can be referred to the above description of the first electrode terminal 314, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0136] It should be understood that the first electrode terminal 314 and the second electrode terminal have opposite polarities. That is, the first electrode terminal 314 can be a positive electrode terminal and the second electrode terminal can be a negative electrode terminal. Alternatively, the first electrode terminal 314 can be a negative electrode terminal and the second electrode terminal can be a positive electrode terminal.

[0137] By concealing both the positive and negative electrode terminals within the accommodating space in the embodiments of this application, the space utilization rate of the battery cell 30 can be effectively improved, thereby increasing the energy density of the battery.

[0138] Optionally, such as Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the first accommodating space 312 and the second accommodating space are symmetrically arranged with respect to the diagonal of the housing 31. In another implementation, the first accommodating space 312 and the second accommodating space are symmetrically arranged with respect to the centerline of the housing 31 in the first direction X.

[0139] This application also provides a schematic structural diagram of a battery 100. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the battery 100 includes a plurality of battery cells 30 as described in the various embodiments above. The plurality of battery cells 30 are arranged along a third direction Z, which is perpendicular to the bottom wall of the housing 31. The battery also includes a busbar 40 for connecting a second portion 3142 of the first electrode terminal 314 of two adjacent battery cells 30.

[0140] The battery cell 30 of this application embodiment is advantageous in that the current collector 40 is hidden in the first accommodating space 312 in the battery cell 30 without occupying additional assembly space of the battery cell 30, thereby improving the energy density of the battery 100.

[0141] Optionally, the busbar component 40 can have a U-shaped structure. For example... Figure 13 As shown, the busbar component 40 includes a body 41 extending along a third direction Z and two connecting portions 42 formed by bending from both ends of the body 41 along a first direction X. The two connecting portions 42 are respectively connected to the second portions 3142 of the first electrode terminals 314 of two adjacent battery cells 30.

[0142] See also Figure 12 The first accommodating space 312 can penetrate the housing 31 along the third direction Z. When the first accommodating space 312 penetrates the housing 31 along the third direction Z, the busbar component 40 can be completely hidden within the first accommodating space 312 of two adjacent battery cells 30 without occupying additional assembly space, thereby improving the energy density of the battery 100.

[0143] Optionally, in this embodiment, the first accommodating space 312 may not penetrate the housing 31 along the third direction Z, and the body 41 of the busbar component 40 may span the non-penetrating portion of the housing 31 along the third direction Z.

[0144] Optionally, in this embodiment, the two connecting portions 42 are formed by bending from both ends of the body 41 along the first direction X and away from the battery 100. That is, during assembly, the opening of the busbar 40 faces away from the battery 100 along the first direction X.

[0145] Setting the opening of the busbar 40 to face the side away from the battery 100 can reduce space occupation.

[0146] Optionally, in the embodiments of this application, the second part 3142 of the first electrode terminal 314 of the battery cell 30 can be sheet-like, and the two connecting parts 42 of the busbar component 40 can also be sheet-like, and the second part 3142 and the two connecting parts 42 can be parallel or substantially parallel to the bottom wall 313 of the housing 31.

[0147] Since the busbar component 40 and the first electrode terminal 314 are stacked in a flat plate structure after assembly, they can be connected by ultrasonic welding, thereby reducing the generation of metal shavings.

[0148] Figures 14a-14c A schematic structural diagram showing the positional relationship of several possible connecting parts 42 and the second part 3142 is provided. For example... Figure 14a As shown, the two connecting portions 42 of the busbar component 40 can respectively connect to the second portions 3142 of the first electrode terminals 314 of two adjacent battery cells 30 on adjacent surfaces in the third direction Z. Figure 14bAs shown, the two connecting portions 42 of the busbar component 40 can respectively connect to the second portions 3142 of the first electrode terminals 314 of two adjacent battery cells 30 on opposite surfaces in the third direction Z. Figure 14c As shown, the two connecting portions 42 of the busbar component 40 can respectively connect to the second portions 3142 of the first electrode terminals 314 of two adjacent battery cells 30 on the same side in the third direction.

[0149] In one embodiment, the thickness of the connecting portion 42 is less than the thickness of the body 41. This is equivalent to thinning the two connecting portions 42, making it easier to bend the busbar component 40.

[0150] Furthermore, such as Figure 15 As shown, the main body 41 of the busbar component 40 may also be provided with reinforcing ribs 411 to improve the strength of the busbar component 40. The reinforcing ribs 411 may, for example, be parallel to the second direction Y.

[0151] In one implementation, such as Figure 16 As shown, an insulating layer 412 is provided on the surface of the body 41 of the busbar 40 facing the battery 100. This insulating layer may be, for example, an insulating patch or an insulating coating; or, in another implementation, such as Figure 17 As shown, the body 41 of the busbar component 40 is covered with insulating material 413. Since the body 41 of the busbar component 40 is provided with an insulating layer 412 or covered with insulating material 413, electrical contact between the busbar component 40 and the first electrode terminal 314 of the battery cell 30 can be avoided, thereby improving the safety of the battery 100.

[0152] One embodiment of this application also provides an electrical device that may include the battery cell 30 described in the foregoing embodiments for providing electrical energy to the device. Optionally, the electrical device may be a vehicle, a ship, or a spacecraft.

[0153] By incorporating the battery cell 30 of the aforementioned embodiment into the electrical equipment, the first electrode terminal 314 of the battery cell 30 can be accommodated within the first accommodating space 312 formed by recessing the edge region of the first 311 of the housing 31 along the first direction X. This allows the first electrode terminal 314 to be hidden without occupying space in all directions of the battery cell 30, thereby improving space utilization and facilitating the promotion and use of the electrical equipment.

[0154] Furthermore, by setting the first portion 3141 and the second portion 3142 of the first electrode terminal 314 as a sheet, the connecting components can be eliminated, the parts can be simplified, and the problems of increased transfer resistance and unstable electrical connection caused by internal electrical connection conversion can be reduced. Moreover, since the second portion 3142 extends into the first accommodating space 312 along the second direction Y, the welding of the first tab 321 and the first portion 3141 in the housing 31 can share the space of the first direction X (also referred to as the length direction of the battery cell 30) of the battery cell 30 with the welding of the second portion 3142 of the housing 31 and the busbar component 40, without generating unnecessary space occupation.

[0155] 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.

[0156] Figure 18 A schematic flowchart of a method 400 for preparing a battery cell according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 17 As shown, the method 400 may include at least some of the following.

[0157] S410 provides electrode assembly 32.

[0158] S420, a housing 31 is provided, the housing 31 including a pair of first sidewalls 315 disposed opposite each other along a first direction X, a pair of second sidewalls 316 disposed opposite each other along a second direction Y, and a bottom wall 313, the first tab 321 of the electrode assembly 32 is disposed at a first end 311 of the housing 31 in the first direction X, and the area of ​​the bottom wall 313 is greater than the area of ​​the first sidewalls 315 and the area of ​​the second sidewalls 316.

[0159] S430, cover plate 37, covers the housing 31 to enclose the electrode assembly 32 inside the housing 31. The cover plate 37 and the bottom wall 313 are arranged opposite each other along the third direction Z. The first direction X, the second direction Y and the third direction Z are perpendicular to each other.

[0160] S440, a first electrode terminal 314 is provided, including a first portion 3141 and a second portion 3142. The first electrode terminal 314 is disposed at a first end 311 of the housing 31 and extends along a second direction Y. The first portion 3141 is connected to a first tab 321. The second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X and parallel to the bottom wall 313 of the housing 31. The housing 31 is recessed in the edge region of the first end 311 to form a first accommodating space 312 outside the housing 31. The second portion 3142 extends out of the housing 31 along the second direction Y and into the first accommodating space 312.

[0161] Optionally, after preparing multiple battery cells 30 using method 400, at least some of the following steps can be performed.

[0162] The multiple battery cells 30 are arranged along a third direction Z, which is perpendicular to the bottom wall 313 of the casing 31 of the battery cells 30.

[0163] A busbar component 40 is provided for connecting a second portion 3142 of the first electrode terminal 314 of two adjacent battery cells 30 among the plurality of battery cells 30.

[0164] Figure 19 A schematic block diagram of an apparatus 500 for preparing a single battery cell according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 18 As shown, the device 500 includes a providing module 510 for: providing an electrode assembly 32; providing a housing 31, the housing 31 including a pair of first sidewalls 315 disposed opposite each other along a first direction X, a pair of second sidewalls 316 disposed opposite each other along a second direction Y, and a bottom wall 313, a first tab 321 of the electrode assembly 32 being disposed at a first end 311 of the housing 31 in the first direction X, the area of ​​the bottom wall 313 being larger than the areas of the first sidewalls 315 and the second sidewalls 316; and a cover plate 37 covering the housing 31 to enclose the electrode assembly 32 within the housing 31, the cover plate 37 and the bottom wall 313 being disposed opposite each other along a third direction Z, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z being perpendicular to each other. A first electrode terminal 314 is provided, including a first portion 3141 and a second portion 3142. The first electrode terminal 314 is disposed at the first end 311 of the housing 31 and extends along the second direction Y. The first portion 3141 is connected to the first tab 321. The second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X and parallel to the bottom wall 313 of the housing 31. The housing 31 is recessed in the edge region of the first end 311 to form a first accommodating space 312 outside the housing 31. The second portion 3142 extends out of the housing 31 along the second direction Y and extends to the first accommodating space 312.

[0165] Optionally, based on the fabrication of multiple battery cells 30 using the apparatus 500, the apparatus 500 may further include the following modules: an assembly module for arranging the multiple battery cells 30 along a third direction Z, which is perpendicular to the bottom wall 313 of the housing 31 of the battery cell 30. Furthermore, the providing module 510 is also used to provide a busbar component 40 for connecting the second portion 3142 of the first electrode terminal 314 of two adjacent battery cells 30.

[0166] 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 cell, characterized in that, include: Electrode assembly; The housing includes a pair of first sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a first direction, a pair of second sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a second direction, and a bottom wall. The first electrode tab of the electrode assembly is disposed at a first end of the housing in the first direction. The area of ​​the bottom wall is greater than the area of ​​the first sidewalls and the area of ​​the second sidewalls. A cover plate covers the housing to enclose the electrode assembly within the housing. The cover plate and the bottom wall are disposed opposite each other along a third direction, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other. The first electrode terminal includes a first part and a second part. The first electrode terminal is disposed at the first end of the housing and extends along the second direction. The first part is connected to the first electrode tab. The housing is recessed in the edge region of the first end to form a first accommodating space outside the housing, and the second portion extends through the housing along the second direction into the first accommodating space. The first accommodating space extends through the housing in the third direction; The second electrode tab of the electrode assembly is disposed at the second end of the housing in the first direction, and the battery cell further includes: The second electrode terminal includes a third portion, wherein the second electrode terminal is disposed at the second end and extends along the second direction, and the third portion is connected to the second electrode tab.

2. The battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The battery cell also includes: An insulating bracket is disposed at the first end and located between the electrode assembly and the housing, the insulating bracket being used to support the first tab and the first electrode terminal.

3. The battery cell according to claim 2, characterized in that, The insulating bracket is provided with a receiving groove, and a support part is provided in the receiving groove. The support part is used to support the first electrode tab and the first electrode terminal. The first portion is connected to the first tab within the receiving groove, and the second portion extends through the side wall of the receiving groove to pass through the housing and extend into the first receiving space.

4. The battery cell according to claim 3, characterized in that, The insulating support abuts against the electrode assembly in the first direction to fix the electrode assembly in the first direction.

5. The battery cell according to claim 4, characterized in that, In the first direction, the length of the support portion is less than the length of the insulating bracket to form a clearance space between the support portion and the electrode assembly, the clearance space being used to avoid the folded portion of the first electrode tab.

6. The battery cell according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first sidewall of the housing at the first end includes a first facet, a second facet, and a transition surface. The first facet and the second facet are connected by the transition surface. Both the first facet and the second facet are perpendicular to the first direction, and the first facet is closer to the middle position of the housing in the first direction than the second facet. The first facet, the second facet, and the transition surface form the first accommodating space. The second portion extends through the transition surface along the second direction and extends into the first accommodating space.

7. The battery cell according to claim 6, characterized in that, The transition surface is provided with a first opening, and the second portion extends into the first accommodating space through the first opening. The battery cell further includes: A sealing ring is used to seal the gap between the second part and the first opening.

8. The battery cell according to claim 7, characterized in that, The inner side of the sealing ring protrudes axially from the outer side of the sealing ring, and the inner side of the sealing ring is embedded in the first opening.

9. The battery cell according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first electrode terminal further includes a boss, which is disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The outer contour dimension of the cross-section of the boss is larger than the size of the first opening. The boss is disposed within the housing. The battery cell further includes: A locking part is provided outside the housing. The locking part engages with the second part and cooperates with the boss to fix the first electrode terminal.

10. The battery cell according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second part is provided with a slot, the engaging part is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second part, and the inner periphery of the engaging part is provided with a block that engages with the slot.

11. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first part and the second part are sheet-like, and the surfaces of the first part and the second part are substantially parallel to the bottom wall of the shell.

12. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The second electrode terminal further includes a fourth portion, wherein the housing is recessed in the edge region of the second end to form a second accommodating space outside the housing, and the fourth portion extends out of the housing along the second direction and into the second accommodating space.

13. The battery cell according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first accommodating space and the second accommodating space are arranged symmetrically with respect to the diagonal of the housing or the midline of the housing in the first direction.

14. A battery, characterized in that, The battery comprises a plurality of battery cells as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the plurality of battery cells are arranged along the third direction, and the battery further comprises: A busbar for connecting the second portion of the first electrode terminals of two adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

15. The battery according to claim 14, characterized in that, The busbar component includes a body extending along the third direction and two connecting portions formed by bending from both ends of the body along the first direction. The two connecting portions are respectively connected to the second portion of the first electrode terminal of two adjacent battery cells.

16. The battery according to claim 15, characterized in that, The two connecting portions are formed by bending from both ends of the body along the first direction and away from the battery.

17. The battery according to claim 15, characterized in that, The second part of the first electrode terminal is plate-shaped, and the surface of the second part is parallel to the bottom wall of the housing; The two connecting portions are respectively connected to the second portions of the first electrode terminals of two adjacent battery cells on adjacent surfaces facing the third direction, or on opposite surfaces, or on surfaces located on the same side.

18. The battery according to claim 15, characterized in that, The thickness of the connecting part is less than the thickness of the body.

19. The battery according to claim 15, characterized in that, The body is provided with reinforcing ribs.

20. The battery according to claim 19, characterized in that, The reinforcing rib is parallel to the second direction.

21. The battery according to any one of claims 15 to 20, characterized in that, An insulating layer is provided on the surface of the body facing the battery, or the body is wrapped with insulating material.

22. The battery according to claim 21, characterized in that, The insulating layer includes insulating patches or insulating coatings.

23. The battery according to any one of claims 15 to 20, characterized in that, The connecting part is connected to the second part by ultrasonic welding.

24. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, Includes the battery as described in any one of claims 14 to 23, the battery being used to provide electrical power to the electrical device.

25. A method for preparing a battery cell, characterized in that, include: Provide electrode assemblies; A housing is provided, the housing including a pair of first sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a first direction, a pair of second sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a second direction, and a bottom wall, the first electrode tab of the electrode assembly being disposed at a first end of the housing in the first direction, and the area of ​​the bottom wall being greater than the area of ​​the first sidewalls and the area of ​​the second sidewalls; A cover plate is provided to cover the housing to enclose the electrode assembly within the housing. The cover plate and the bottom wall are disposed opposite each other along a third direction, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other. The first electrode terminal includes a first part and a second part. The first electrode terminal is disposed at the first end of the housing and extends along the second direction. The first part is connected to the first electrode tab. The housing is recessed in the edge region of the first end to form a first accommodating space outside the housing, and the second portion extends through the housing along the second direction into the first accommodating space. The first accommodating space extends through the housing in the third direction; The second electrode tab of the electrode assembly is disposed at the second end of the housing in the first direction. The method further includes: A second electrode terminal is provided, the second electrode terminal including a third portion, the second electrode terminal being disposed at the second end and extending along the second direction, the third portion being connected to the second electrode tab.

26. An apparatus for preparing battery cells, characterized in that, include: Provide modules for: Provide electrode assemblies; A housing is provided, the housing including a pair of first sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a first direction, a pair of second sidewalls disposed opposite each other along a second direction, and a bottom wall, the first electrode tab of the electrode assembly being disposed at a first end of the housing in the first direction, and the area of ​​the bottom wall being greater than the area of ​​the first sidewalls and the area of ​​the second sidewalls; A cover plate is provided to cover the housing to enclose the electrode assembly within the housing. The cover plate and the bottom wall are disposed opposite each other along a third direction, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other. The first electrode terminal includes a first part and a second part. The first electrode terminal is disposed at the first end of the housing and extends along the second direction. The first part is connected to the first electrode tab. The housing is recessed in the edge region of the first end to form a first accommodating space outside the housing, and the second portion extends through the housing along the second direction into the first accommodating space. The first accommodating space extends through the housing in the third direction; The second electrode tab of the electrode assembly is disposed at the second end of the housing in the first direction. The providing module is also used for: A second electrode terminal is provided, the second electrode terminal including a third portion, the second electrode terminal being disposed at the second end and extending along the second direction, the third portion being connected to the second electrode tab.

Images