Battery cell and method, device, battery and electric device for manufacturing the same

Abstract

The application provides a battery monomer, a manufacturing method and device thereof, a battery and a power utilization device. The battery monomer (100) comprises an electrode assembly (1) and a protection frame (2). The electrode assembly (1) comprises a main body part (11) and a tab (12), and the tab (12) is connected to the side part of the main body part (11) along a first direction (x). The protection frame (2) is an integrated structure and comprises three protection plates for protecting three sides of the main body part (11). The three protection plates comprise a first plate (21), a second plate (22) and a third plate (23). The third plate (23) is located between the first plate (21) and the second plate (22), and the two ends of the third plate (23) are connected to the first end of the first plate (21) and the first end of the second plate (22) respectively. At least one of the first plate (21), the second plate (22) and the third plate (23) is provided with an opening (231). The tab (12) is led out from the opening (231).

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Lithium-ion batteries have been widely used due to their advantages such as high energy density, high power density, high cycle life, and long storage time.

[0003] Currently, battery cells generally have the electrode assembly directly inside the casing. However, the electrode assembly may be damaged during the installation process and during battery use, resulting in low reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this application is to improve the reliability of battery cells during assembly and use.

[0005] According to a first aspect of this application, a battery cell is provided, comprising: an electrode assembly including a main body and a tab, the tab being connected to a side portion of the main body along a first direction; and a protective frame, which is an integral structure and includes three protective plates for protecting three sides of the main body, the three protective plates including a first plate, a second plate and a third plate, the third plate being located between the first plate and the second plate, and the two ends of the third plate being connected to the first ends of the first plate and the first ends of the second plate, respectively, and at least one of the first plate, the second plate and the third plate having an opening; wherein the tab extends out from the opening.

[0006] This embodiment protects the sides of the electrode assembly by providing a protective frame, preventing damage during and after installation into the housing. Furthermore, the integrated protective frame provides overall rigidity, enhancing the overall rigidity of the electrode assembly after installation. It also facilitates assembly, occupies minimal space, has little impact on the energy density of individual battery cells, and is well-suited for thin batteries.

[0007] Furthermore, the tabs extend from the opening on the protective frame, serving to gather and consolidate the tabs, facilitating electrical connection to the electrode terminals via welding. This also prevents the tabs from being inserted into the main body, which could cause active material to detach. The protective frame around the electrode assembly prevents interference between the electrode assembly and the rounded corners of the casing edges. These advantages improve the reliability and safety of the battery cell during assembly and use.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first plate, the second plate, and the third plate are all arranged parallel to the second direction, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0009] This embodiment enables the first plate and the second plate to protect two sides adjacent to the side of the electrode tab that leads out from the main body, and these two sides are arranged opposite each other along a third direction, which facilitates the installation of the protective frame outside the electrode assembly and helps to strengthen the fixing effect on the root of the electrode tab.

[0010] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly is a stacked structure, and the electrode assembly has a first electrode and a second electrode with opposite polarities stacked along a second direction. The first plate and the second plate respectively protect two sides of the main body perpendicular to a third direction, and the third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0011] This embodiment employs a stacked electrode assembly, offering greater flexibility in size design. The first and second electrodes can be cut into rectangular structures, better utilizing the space within the casing and increasing the energy density of the individual battery cells. For the stacked electrode assembly, since the first and second electrodes are relatively independent, a protective frame can be used to limit their movement around the outer periphery, ensuring alignment of all first and second electrodes. The first and second plates respectively protect the two sides of the main body perpendicular to a third direction. Compared to protecting the three end faces of the electrode assembly via the protective plates, this prevents impurities from entering the main body through the electrodes and prevents damage to the electrode assembly during installation into the casing due to misalignment of the ends.

[0012] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly includes two tabs located on opposite sides of the main body along a first direction, with an opening on a third plate, one of the tabs extending out from the opening.

[0013] This embodiment allows one of the tabs to extend from the opening in the protective frame, making it easy to insert the protective frame from one side of the tab and facilitating assembly.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first plate, the second plate, and the third plate all cover the corresponding protected side of the main body.

[0015] This embodiment provides more comprehensive protection to the sides of the main body through the protective plates, resulting in superior protection and maximizing the overall rigidity of the electrode assembly. Optionally, the first, second, and third plates may also partially cover the corresponding protected sides.

[0016] In some embodiments, a first pre-crease is provided at the connection between the third plate and the first plate, and at the connection between the third plate and the second plate.

[0017] This embodiment incorporates a first pre-fold crease, as shown in the figure. Before assembly, the protective frame is a long strip structure, making it less prone to deformation during storage and transportation. As shown in the figure, during assembly, the protective frame is bent at the first pre-fold crease to form a predetermined structure. Since the strength of the protective frame at the first pre-fold crease is lower than at other locations, bending allows the shape of the protective frame to better match the electrode assembly, thus enabling the protective frame to better protect the electrode assembly.

[0018] In some embodiments, the thickness of the third plate is greater than the thickness of the first plate and the second plate; or the protective frame may further include a reinforcing plate, which is attached to the side of the third plate, and the sum of the thicknesses of the reinforcing plate and the third plate is greater than the thicknesses of the first plate and the second plate.

[0019] This embodiment increases the overall strength of the protective frame by increasing the thickness of the third plate, thereby enhancing the overall protection of the electrode assembly and the protection of the tabs.

[0020] In some embodiments, the opening extends along the width direction of the tab, and the protective plate provides a cut at each end of the opening along the width direction of the tab. Each cut extends a predetermined distance to both sides of the opening so that the opening and the two cuts define two door structures. The two door structures are configured to open relative to each other in a direction away from the main body.

[0021] This embodiment sets two cuts at both ends of the opening, which together with the opening define two door structures. The two door structures can open outward to facilitate the electrode tabs to pass through the opening. After the electrode tabs pass through, the door structures return to their initial positions under the action of material elasticity or external force to better gather the electrode tabs. This structure facilitates the assembly of the protective frame and the electrode assembly, and also ensures the effect of gathering the electrode tabs, thereby improving the assembly performance.

[0022] In some embodiments, a second pre-crease is provided at the line connecting the ends of the two cuts located on the same side.

[0023] This embodiment, by setting a second pre-fold, has a lower strength than other locations. This makes it easier for the door structure to open outward with the second pre-fold as the axis when the electrode tab is passed through the opening, facilitating the electrode tab's passage through the opening. Furthermore, after the electrode tab has passed through the opening, the door structure can be easily pressed back towards the main body to ensure a proper containment effect on the electrode tab.

[0024] In some embodiments, the protective frame further includes a reinforcing plate attached to the outer side of the third plate, and the reinforcing plate has a through groove, the size of which is not less than the area defined by the two cuts.

[0025] This embodiment, by adding a reinforcing plate, increases the thickness of the third plate, thereby improving the overall strength of the protective frame, enhancing the overall protection of the electrode assembly, and increasing the protection of the electrode tabs. Furthermore, a through groove is provided on the reinforcing plate to avoid obstructing the opening structure, thus ensuring that the electrode tabs can smoothly pass through the opening.

[0026] In some embodiments, an adhesive layer is also included, which is attached to the outside of the tab to fix the tab to the protective plate with the opening.

[0027] This embodiment applies an adhesive layer to both sides of the tab before installing the protective frame. After the tab is passed through the opening and the protective frame is installed, the protective plate and the tab can be kept relatively fixed, which can better tighten the tab. Moreover, the adhesive layer is easy to set up and does not increase the assembly difficulty.

[0028] In some embodiments, the battery cell further includes two plastic plates, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the opening. The plastic plates are fixed to the outside of the protective plate with the opening by heat fusion, and the tabs are led out from the gap between the opening and the two plastic plates.

[0029] In this embodiment, after the tab passes through the opening, two plastic plates are fixed to the protective plate on both sides of the tab using a heat-melting method. This ensures that the protective plate and the tab remain relatively fixed, thus better securing the tab. Furthermore, fixing the plastic plates after the tab has passed through the opening allows for smooth passage, and the plastic plates also reinforce the protective plate, increasing its rigidity and further enhancing the tab's securing effect.

[0030] In some embodiments, the opening is provided on the third plate, and the first end of the first plate and the first end of the second plate are both higher than the outer side surface of the third plate along a first direction.

[0031] This embodiment can protect the tabs by extending the first and second plates above the third plate, preventing damage to the ends of the tabs along the width direction during assembly or use. It provides better protection for structures with larger tab widths that extend close to the end of the main body, preventing short circuits between the tabs and the housing due to vibration or impact during use.

[0032] In some embodiments, the protective frame further includes two connecting plates, with the two ends of the third plate connected to the first end of the first plate and the first end of the second plate, respectively, via a connecting plate.

[0033] This embodiment, by setting connecting plates at the connection points between the third plate and the first and second plates at both ends, not only facilitates the integral molding of this irregularly shaped protective frame, but also increases the strength of the protective frame at the bending point, which helps to improve the overall rigidity of the protective frame, thereby more effectively protecting the electrode assembly.

[0034] In some embodiments, a first pre-fold is provided at the connection between the first plate and the connecting plate, at the connection points between the two ends of the third plate and the two connecting plates respectively, and at the connection point between the second plate and the connecting plate.

[0035] This embodiment allows the protective frame to be configured as a long strip structure before assembly, making it less prone to deformation during storage and transportation. Specifically, two first pre-folds spaced at a preset distance can be provided on both sides of the third plate, with the preset distance being the width of the connecting plate. The opening can extend on the third plate to reach the outermost first pre-fold. During assembly, the protective frame is bent at the first pre-fold to form the predetermined structure. Since the strength of the protective frame at the first pre-fold is lower than at other locations, bending allows the shape of the protective frame to better match the electrode assembly, enabling the protective frame to better protect the electrode assembly.

[0036] According to a second aspect of this application, a battery is provided, comprising: a battery cell as described in the above embodiments; and a housing assembly for accommodating the battery cell.

[0037] According to a third aspect of this application, an electrical device is provided, including the battery of the above embodiment, the battery being used to provide electrical energy to the electrical device.

[0038] According to a fourth aspect of this application, a method for manufacturing a battery cell is provided, comprising:

[0039] Component provision steps: Provide an electrode assembly and a protective frame; wherein, the electrode assembly includes a main body and a tab, the tab is disposed on the side of the main body along a first direction, the protective frame is an integral structure and includes three protective plates, which are respectively used to protect the three sides of the main body, the three protective plates include a first plate, a second plate and a third plate, the third plate is located between the first plate and the second plate, and the two ends of the third plate are respectively connected to the first end of the first plate and the first end of the second plate, and at least one of the first plate, the second plate and the third plate is provided with an opening;

[0040] Electrode lead-out procedure: Lead the electrode out from the opening;

[0041] Frame assembly steps: Ensure that the three protective plates protect the three sides of the main body respectively.

[0042] According to a fifth aspect of this application, an apparatus for manufacturing a single battery cell is provided, comprising:

[0043] A component providing device is configured to provide an electrode assembly and a protective frame; wherein the electrode assembly includes a main body and a tab, the tab being disposed on the side of the main body along a first direction, and the protective frame is an integral structure including three protective plates, which are respectively used to protect the three sides of the main body. The three protective plates include a first plate, a second plate, and a third plate, the third plate being located between the first plate and the second plate, and the two ends of the third plate being respectively connected to the first end of the first plate and the first end of the second plate. At least one of the first plate, the second plate, and the third plate is provided with an opening.

[0044] The tab lead-out device is configured to lead the tab out from the opening; and

[0045] The frame assembly equipment is configured to protect the three sides of the main body with three protective plates respectively. Attached Figure Description

[0046] 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.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of some embodiments of the battery installation in a vehicle according to this application.

[0048] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of some embodiments of the battery in this application.

[0049] Figure 3 This is a front view of some embodiments of the battery cell of this application.

[0050] Figure 4 for Figure 3 AA sectional view.

[0051] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Enlarged view of point B.

[0052] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of some embodiments of the battery cell of this application.

[0053] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of some embodiments of the electrode assembly.

[0054] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of some embodiments of a protective frame mounted on an electrode assembly.

[0055] Figure 9 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the structure with the protective frame in an unfolded state.

[0056] Figure 10 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the structure of the protective frame in a bent state.

[0057] Figure 11 Schematic diagrams of some embodiments for providing a reinforcing plate on the side of the third plate.

[0058] Figure 12 A schematic diagram showing the structure for setting an adhesive layer between the third plate and the tab.

[0059] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a structure with a plastic sheet installed on the outside of the third plate.

[0060] Figure 14 Schematic diagrams of other embodiments of the protective frame mounted on the electrode assembly.

[0061] Figure 15 for Figure 14 The main view.

[0062] Figure 16 for Figure 14 The diagram shows the structure with the protective frame in an unfolded state.

[0063] Figure 17 for Figure 14 The protective frame in the diagram is in a bent state.

[0064] Figure 18 The flowcharts are for some embodiments of the manufacturing method of the battery cell of this application.

[0065] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of some embodiments of the battery cell manufacturing apparatus of this application.

[0066] The accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0067] Marker explanation:

[0068] 100. Battery cell; 1. Electrode assembly; 11. Main body; 111. First electrode; 112. Second electrode; 113. Separator; 12. Tab; 2. Protective frame; 21. First plate; 22. Second plate; 23. Third plate; 231. Opening; 232. Cutout; 233. Door structure; 24. Reinforcing plate; 241. Through groove; 25. First pre-crease; 26. Second pre-crease; 27. Adhesive layer; 28. Plastic sheet; 29. ​​Connecting plate; 3. Housing; 31. Opening; 4. End cap assembly; 41. End cap body; 42. Electrode terminal; 5. Adapter;

[0069] 200, Battery; 201, Housing assembly; 201A, Housing; 201B, Cover; 100', Battery module;

[0070] 300. Vehicle; 301. Axle; 302. Wheel; 303. Motor; 304. Controller;

[0071] 400. Manufacturing equipment; 410. Component supply equipment; 420. Electrode lead-out equipment; 430. Frame assembly equipment. Detailed Implementation

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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", "outer", etc., indicating orientation or positional relationship are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0074] 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" does not mean strictly vertical, but rather within the permissible range of error. "Parallel" does not mean strictly parallel, but rather within the permissible range of error. The directional terms appearing in the following description refer to the directions shown in the figures and are not intended to limit the specific structure of this application.

[0075] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly 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 depending on the specific circumstances.

[0076] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least some of the embodiments 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 separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0077] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "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).

[0078] This application uses terms such as "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "inner," and "outer" to indicate orientation or positional relationships. This is only for the convenience of describing this application and is not intended to indicate or imply that the device referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this application.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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", "outer", etc., indicating orientation or positional relationship are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0081] 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" does not mean strictly vertical, but rather within the permissible range of error. "Parallel" does not mean strictly parallel, but rather within the permissible range of error. The directional terms appearing in the following description refer to the directions shown in the figures and are not intended to limit the specific structure of this application.

[0082] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly 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 depending on the specific circumstances.

[0083] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least some of the embodiments 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 separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0084] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "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).

[0085] This application uses terms such as "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "inner," and "outer" to indicate orientation or positional relationships. This is only for the convenience of describing this application and is not intended to indicate or imply that the device referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this application.

[0086] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module comprising multiple battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery mentioned in this application may include a battery module or a battery pack, etc.

[0087] Battery cells may include lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, lithium-ion primary batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, or magnesium-ion batteries, etc., and this application embodiment is not limited to these. Battery cells may be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes, etc., and this application embodiment is not limited to these. Battery cells are generally classified into three types according to their packaging method: cylindrical battery cells, square battery cells, and pouch battery cells, and this application embodiment is not limited to these.

[0088] Current battery cells typically consist of a casing and an electrode assembly housed within the casing, with an electrolyte filled inside. The electrode assembly is mainly formed by stacking or winding a first electrode and a second electrode with opposite polarities, and a separator is usually provided between the first and second electrodes. The portions of the first and second electrodes coated with active material constitute the main body of the electrode assembly, while the portions of the first and second electrodes not coated with active material constitute the first tab and the second tab, respectively. In lithium-ion batteries, the first electrode can be a positive electrode, including a positive current collector and positive active material layers disposed on both sides of the positive current collector. The material of the positive current collector can be, for example, aluminum, and the positive active material can be, for example, lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, or lithium manganese oxide, etc. The second electrode can be a negative electrode, including a negative current collector and negative active material layers disposed on both sides of the negative current collector. The material of the negative current collector can be, for example, copper, and the negative active material can be, for example, graphite or silicon, etc. The first tab and the second tab can be located together at one end of the main body or at opposite ends of the main body. During the charging and discharging process of a single battery cell, the positive and negative active materials react with the electrolyte, and the tabs connect the terminals to form a current loop.

[0089] In practice, the inventors discovered that for stacked electrode assemblies, the sides of the electrode assemblies are not sealed. To prevent damage to the sides of the electrode assemblies during assembly and use, a protective frame can be installed outside the electrode assembly. To provide better protection for the electrode assembly, the inventors conceived of a method of setting multiple independent protective plates with fixing interfaces, such as clips or fastener fixing holes, on the protective plates. This allows each protective plate to be attached to the end face of the electrode assembly during battery cell assembly, and adjacent protective plates can be fixed together by clips or fasteners to form a complete protective frame.

[0090] However, this method leads to greater difficulty in assembling the protective frame, affecting the assembly efficiency of the battery cells. Furthermore, to install the fixing interface on the protective plate, the plate thickness needs to be increased, which inevitably occupies a larger space inside the battery cells, impacting their energy density. Therefore, the design of the protective frame needs to further reduce assembly difficulty and minimize the impact on energy density.

[0091] Based on the discovery of the above-mentioned technical problems, this application requires the design of a protective frame for the electrode assembly, which can provide better protection for the electrode assembly while reducing assembly difficulty and minimizing the impact on the energy density of the battery cells.

[0092] The battery of this application can be used in electrical devices to provide electrical energy to these devices, which can be mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, electric vehicles, electric cars, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and power tools, etc. For example, spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc. Electric toys include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Power tools include metal cutting power tools, grinding power tools, assembly power tools, and railway power tools, such as electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, impact drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers.

[0093] like Figure 1 As shown, the electrical device can be a vehicle 300, such as a new energy vehicle, which can be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid electric vehicle, or a range-extended electric vehicle; or the electrical device can be a drone or a ship. Specifically, the vehicle 300 may include an axle 301, wheels 302 connected to the axle 301, a motor 303, a controller 304, and a battery 200. The motor 303 is used to drive the axle 301 to rotate, the controller 304 is used to control the operation of the motor 303, and the battery 200 can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle 300 to provide power for the operation of the motor 303 and other components in the vehicle.

[0094] Figure 2The diagram below illustrates the structure of some embodiments of the battery 200 of this application. The battery 200 includes a housing assembly 201 and battery cells 100. In the battery 200, there can be one or more battery cells 100. If there are multiple battery cells 100, they can be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed configuration. A mixed configuration means that the multiple battery cells 100 are connected in both series and parallel connections. This can be achieved by first connecting multiple battery cells 100 in series, parallel, or in a mixed configuration to form a battery module, and then connecting multiple battery modules in series, parallel, or in a mixed configuration to form a whole, which is then housed within the housing assembly 201. Alternatively, all battery cells 100 can be directly connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed configuration, and then the whole formed by all battery cells 100 is housed within the housing assembly 201.

[0095] The housing assembly 201 has a hollow internal structure, and at least one battery module 100' is housed within the housing assembly 201. For example, the housing assembly 201 may include a housing 201A and a cover 201B. The housing 201A and the cover 201B are fastened together. For example, both the housing 201A and the cover 201B can be hollow cuboids with only one open side each. The openings of the housing 201A and the cover 201B are opposite to each other, and the housing 201A and the cover 201B are fastened together to form a housing with a closed cavity. Alternatively, the housing 201A can be an open cuboid while the cover 201B is plate-shaped, or the cover 201B can be an open cuboid while the housing 201A is plate-shaped. The housing 201A and the cover 201B are opposite to each other and fastened together to form a housing with a closed cavity. At least one battery module 100' is connected in parallel, series, or mixed with each other and placed in a closed cavity formed by the box 201A and the cover 201B.

[0096] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, this application provides a battery cell 100, including: a housing 3, an end cap assembly 4, and an electrode assembly 1. The housing 3 has an opening 31 facing a first direction x, the electrode assembly 1 is disposed inside the housing 3, and the end cap assembly 4 is configured to close the opening 31. The end cap assembly 4 includes an end cap body 41 and electrode terminals 42 disposed on the end cap body 41. The housing 3 may have openings 31 at both ends along the first direction x, and the openings 31 at both ends are closed by an end cap body 41. An electrode terminal 42 is disposed on each of the two end cap bodies 41. The electrode terminals 42 may be disposed in the region of the end cap body 41 near the end along a third direction z, or in the middle region.

[0097] For example, the end cap body 41 has a rectangular plate structure, and the two electrode terminals 42 are the positive terminal and the negative terminal, respectively. One or more of each type of electrode terminal 42 can be provided. The electrode terminals 42 can be rectangular prisms or cylinders, etc. The electrode terminals 42 and the end cap body 41 can be integrally injection molded, which can reduce the assembly difficulty, or other assembly methods can be used.

[0098] like Figure 5 The enlarged view shows that the electrode assembly 1 includes a main body 11 and electrode tabs 12, with the electrode tabs 12 connected to the side of the main body 11 along a first direction x. For example, the electrode assembly 1 includes two types of electrode tabs 12 with opposite polarities, which extend from both sides of the main body 11 along the first direction x and are electrically connected to the electrode terminals 42 via adapters 5. Optionally, the housing 3 may have an opening 31 at one end along the first direction x, and the opening 31 is closed by an end cap body 41, with both electrode terminals 42 located on the same end cap body 41.

[0099] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the battery cell 100 also includes a protective frame 2, which is an integral structure and includes three protective plates, which are used to protect the three sides of the main body 11 respectively. The three protective plates include a first plate 21, a second plate 22 and a third plate 23. The third plate 23 is located between the first plate 21 and the second plate 22, and the two ends of the third plate 23 are respectively connected to the first end of the first plate 21 and the first end of the second plate 22. At least one of the first plate 21, the second plate 22 and the third plate 23 is provided with an opening 231, and the tab 12 is led out from the opening 231.

[0100] The protective frame 2 can be made of metal with an insulating layer on its inner surface, or it can be made of a rigid insulating material such as polypropylene (PP). The protective frame 2 is a single-piece structure, using a thin plate structure. For example, it can be formed by folding a single sheet, or by fixing the independent first plate 21, second plate 22, and third plate 23 together by welding. The protective plate can cover part or all of the sides of the main body 11. The first plate 21, second plate 22, and third plate 23 can form an n-shaped structure, with the second ends of the first plate 21 and the second ends of the second plate 22 being free ends. The tab 12 extends from the opening 231 to serve as a converging point. For structures where both tabs 12 extend from both ends of the main body 11, for ease of assembly, only one tab 12 can extend from the opening 231 on the protective frame 2. The converging tab 12 can be bent for direct electrical connection to the electrode terminal 42, or for electrical connection to the electrode terminal 42 via an adapter 5.

[0101] During assembly, the open end of the protective frame 2 is aligned with the side end of the tab 12 extending from the main body 11, and the tab 12 is extended from the opening 231. Then, the protective frame 2 is moved so that the first plate 21, the second plate 22, and the third plate 23 abut against the corresponding protected side of the main body 11. There is a gap between each protective plate and the corresponding protected side to facilitate the flow of electrolyte into the main body 11. Furthermore, to allow the electrolyte to enter the main body 11 more smoothly, through holes can be provided on the protective plates, for example, multiple through holes can be provided in different areas of the protective plates.

[0102] This embodiment protects the sides of the electrode assembly 1 by providing a protective frame 2, thus protecting the electrode assembly 1 during and after its installation into the housing 3 and preventing damage to the electrode assembly 1. Furthermore, the protective frame 2 has an integral structure with overall rigidity, enhancing the overall rigidity of the electrode assembly 1 after installation and facilitating assembly. The protective frame 2 also occupies little space, has minimal impact on the energy density of the battery cell 100, and is well-suited for thin batteries.

[0103] Furthermore, the tabs 12 extend from the opening 231 on the protective frame 2, serving to gather the tabs 12 together, facilitating electrical connection to the electrode terminals 42 via welding. This also prevents the tabs 12 from being inserted into the main body 11, which could cause active material to detach. By providing the protective frame 2 outside the electrode assembly 1, interference between the electrode assembly 1 and the rounded corners at the edges of the housing 3 can be avoided. These advantages improve the reliability and safety of the battery cell 100 during assembly and use.

[0104] In some embodiments, the first plate 21, the second plate 22 and the third plate 23 are all arranged parallel to the second direction y, and the second direction y is perpendicular to the first direction x.

[0105] This embodiment enables the first plate 21 and the second plate 22 to protect the two sides adjacent to the side of the tab 12 leading out from the main body 11, and these two sides are arranged opposite each other along the third direction z, which facilitates the installation of the protective frame 2 outside the electrode assembly 1 and helps to strengthen the fixing effect on the root of the tab 12.

[0106] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, the electrode assembly 1 has a stacked structure. The electrode assembly 1 has a first electrode 111 and a second electrode 112 with opposite polarities stacked along the second direction y. The first plate 21 and the second plate 22 respectively protect the two sides of the main body 11 perpendicular to the third direction z. The third direction z is perpendicular to the first direction x and the second direction y. The first plate 21, the second plate 22 and the third plate 23 are all parallel to the second direction y, that is, parallel to the thickness direction of the electrode assembly 1.

[0107] Specifically, the electrode assembly 1 is stacked along the second direction y by means of a first electrode 111, a second electrode 112, and a diaphragm 113. The first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 are alternately arranged, and the diaphragm 113 separates the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112. The first electrode 111, the second electrode 112, and the diaphragm 113 can all be rectangular in structure.

[0108] This embodiment employs a stacked electrode assembly 1, which offers greater flexibility in size design. The first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 can be cut into rectangular structures, allowing for better utilization of the space within the housing 3 and increasing the energy density of the battery cell 100. For the stacked electrode assembly 1, since the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 are relatively independent and their sides are not closed, a protective frame 2 can be provided to limit the movement of the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 around their periphery, ensuring alignment of all the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112. The first plate 21 and the second plate 22 respectively protect the two sides of the main body 11 perpendicular to the third direction z. Protecting the three end faces of the electrode assembly 1 with the protective plates prevents impurities from entering the main body 11 through the gaps between the electrodes and prevents damage to the electrode assembly 1 during installation into the housing 3 due to incomplete alignment of the ends.

[0109] Alternatively, the protective frame 2 of this application can also be applied to the wound electrode assembly 1.

[0110] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, the electrode assembly 1 includes two tabs 12, which are located on both sides of the main body 11 along the first direction x. An opening 231 is provided on the third plate 23, and one of the tabs 12 extends out from the opening 231. The opening 231 can be located in the middle region of the third plate 23 along the third direction z, or it can be offset.

[0111] In this embodiment, one of the tabs 12 is led out from the opening 231 of the protective frame 2, making it easy to insert the protective frame 2 from one side of the tab 12 and facilitating assembly.

[0112] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first plate 21, the second plate 22, and the third plate 23 all cover the corresponding protected sides of the main body 11. Specifically, the first plate 21 and the second plate 22 can extend along the first direction x to reach the end cap body 41 on the other side, and the width of the first plate 21, the second plate 22, and the third plate 23 is not less than the dimension of the electrode assembly 1 along the second direction y, that is, the thickness of the electrode assembly 1.

[0113] This embodiment provides more adequate protection for the sides of the main body 11 through the protective plates, resulting in superior protection and maximizing the overall rigidity of the electrode assembly 1. Optionally, the first plate 21, the second plate 22, and the third plate 23 may also partially cover the corresponding protected sides.

[0114] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, a first pre-crease 25 is provided at the connection between the third plate 23 and the first plate 21, and at the connection between the third plate 23 and the second plate 22. The first pre-crease 25 can extend along the second direction y. For example, the first pre-crease 25 can be a line with continuously decreasing thickness, or a line with intermittently decreasing thickness, or an intermittently provided through groove.

[0115] This embodiment achieves this by setting a first pre-crease 25, such as Figure 9 As shown, before assembly, the protective frame 2 is a long strip structure, which is not easily deformed during storage and transportation. Figure 10 As shown, during assembly, the protective frame 2 is bent at the first pre-fold 25 to form a predetermined structure. Since the strength of the protective frame 2 at the first pre-fold 25 is less than at other locations, after bending, the shape of the protective frame 2 can better match the electrode assembly 1, allowing the protective frame 2 to better protect the electrode assembly 1. For example, during assembly, the tab 12 can be passed through the opening 231 first, and then the protective frame 2 can be bent; or the protective frame 2 can be bent first, and then the tab 12 can be passed through the opening 231.

[0116] In some embodiments, the thickness of the third plate 23 is greater than the thickness of the first plate 21 and the second plate 22. Or as... Figure 11 As shown, the protective frame 2 also includes a reinforcing plate 24, which is attached to the side of the third plate 23. The sum of the thicknesses of the reinforcing plate 24 and the third plate 23 is greater than the thicknesses of the first plate 21 and the second plate 22. For example, the reinforcing plate 24 can be glued to the side of the third plate 23 with adhesive, or if the reinforcing plate 24 is a metal plate, it can be welded to the third plate 23, or the reinforcing plate 24 can be a hot-melt plastic sheet, which can be fixed to the third plate 23 by hot-melt.

[0117] This embodiment increases the overall strength of the protective frame 2 by increasing the thickness of the third plate 23, thereby increasing the overall protection of the electrode assembly 1 and the protection of the tab 12.

[0118] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11As shown, the opening 231 extends along the width direction of the tab 12. The protective plate provides a cut 232 at each end of the opening 231 along the width direction of the tab 12. Each cut 232 extends a predetermined distance to both sides of the opening 231 so that the opening 231 and the two cuts 232 define two door structures 233. The two door structures 233 are configured to open relative to each other in a direction away from the main body 11.

[0119] For example, the tab 12 is located at the end of the main body 11 along the first direction x. The width direction of the tab 12 may be consistent with the third direction z. The opening 231 extends along the third direction z, and the extension length is not less than the width of the tab 12. The cut 232 may extend a predetermined distance from the end of the opening 231 along the second direction y to both sides, so that the portions of the two cuts 232 located on the same side of the opening 231 together with the opening 231 define the door structure 233. The cut 232 may be a cut line or a slender groove to prevent the door structure 233 from interfering with other areas of the third plate 23 when it is opened and closed.

[0120] This embodiment provides two slits 232 at both ends of the opening 231, which together with the opening 231 define two door structures 233. The two door structures 233 can open outward to facilitate the tabs 12 passing through the opening 231. After the tabs 12 pass through, the door structures 233 return to their initial positions under the action of material elasticity or external force to better gather the tabs 12. This structure facilitates the assembly of the protective frame 2 and the electrode assembly 1 and ensures the effect of gathering the tabs 12, thereby improving the assembly performance.

[0121] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11 As shown, a second pre-crease 26 is provided at the line connecting the ends of the two cuts 232 located on the same side. The second pre-crease 26 may extend along a third direction z. For example, the second pre-crease 26 may be a line with continuously decreasing thickness, or a line with intermittently decreasing thickness, or an intermittently provided through groove.

[0122] This embodiment, by providing a second pre-fold 26, where the strength is lower than at other locations, makes it easier for the door structure 233 to open outwards around the second pre-fold 26 when the tab 12 passes through the opening 231, facilitating the passage of the tab 12 through the opening 231. Furthermore, after the tab 12 passes through the opening 231, the door structure 233 can be easily pressed back towards the main body 11 to ensure a constricting effect on the tab 12. Optionally, to facilitate the opening of the door structure 233, it can also employ a flexible sheet-like structure, etc.

[0123] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11As shown, the protective frame 2 also includes a reinforcing plate 24, which is attached to the outer side of the third plate 23. The reinforcing plate 24 has a through groove 241, the size of which is not less than the area defined by the two cuts 232.

[0124] Specifically, the dimension of the through groove 241 along the second direction y is not less than the dimension of the two cuts 232 along the second direction y, and the dimension of the through groove 241 along the third direction z is not less than the distance between the two cuts 232 along the third direction z.

[0125] This embodiment, by setting the reinforcing plate 24, can increase the thickness of the third plate 23, thereby improving the overall strength of the protective frame 2, increasing the overall protection of the electrode assembly 1, and increasing the protection of the tab 12. Furthermore, a through groove 241 is provided on the reinforcing plate 24 to avoid obstructing the opening structure 233, thus ensuring that the tab 12 can smoothly pass through the opening 231.

[0126] In some embodiments, such as Figure 12 As shown, the battery cell 100 also includes an adhesive layer 27, which is attached to the outside of the tab 12 to fix the tab 12 to the protective plate with the opening 231. With the tab 12 passing through the opening 231, the adhesive layer 27 is bonded to the protective plate. For example, the adhesive layer 27 can be an adhesive plastic sheet, etc.

[0127] For example, an opening 231 is provided on the third plate 23, and an adhesive layer 27 is attached to the outside of the tab 12. After the tab 12 passes through the opening 231, the adhesive layer 27 fixes the third plate 23 to the tab 12.

[0128] This embodiment, by attaching adhesive layers 27 to both sides of the tab 12 before installing the protective frame 2, allows the protective plate and the tab 12 to remain relatively fixed after the tab 12 is passed through the opening 231 and the protective frame 2 is installed in place, so as to better tighten the tab 12. Moreover, the adhesive layers 27 are easy to set and do not increase the assembly difficulty.

[0129] In some embodiments, such as Figure 13 As shown, the battery cell 100 also includes two plastic plates 28, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the opening 231. The plastic plates 28 are fixed to the outer side of the protective plate of the opening 231 by heat fusion. The electrode tab 12 extends out from the gap between the opening 231 and the two plastic plates 28. For example, the three edges of the plastic plate 28 other than those near the electrode tab 12 can be heat fused, or only a part of the area can be heat fused to fix it to the outer side of the protective plate.

[0130] For example, the opening 231 is provided on the third plate 23 and is set along the third direction z. Two plastic plates 28 are respectively provided on both sides of the opening 231 along the second direction y. The outer edge of the plastic plate 28 along the second direction y can exceed the second pre-fold 26 to prevent the door structure 233 from opening outward after the tab 12 passes through the opening 231.

[0131] In this embodiment, after the tab 12 passes through the opening 231, two plastic plates 28 are fixed to the protective plate on both sides of the tab 12 by heat fusion. This ensures that the protective plate and the tab 12 remain relatively fixed, thus better constricting the tab 12. Moreover, fixing the plastic plates 28 after the tab 12 passes through the opening 231 allows the tab 12 to pass through smoothly, and the plastic plates 28 also reinforce the protective plate, increasing its rigidity and providing better constriction for the tab 12.

[0132] In some embodiments, such as Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, opening 231 is provided on the third plate 23, and the first end of the first plate 21 and the first end of the second plate 22 are both higher than the outer side surface of the third plate 23 along the first direction x.

[0133] This embodiment can protect the tab 12 by the portion of the first plate 21 and the second plate 22 that is higher than the third plate 23, preventing damage to the end of the tab 12 along the width direction during assembly or use. It can provide better protection for structures where the tab 12 is wide and extends close to the end of the main body, preventing short circuits between the tab 12 and the housing 3 due to vibration or impact during use.

[0134] In some embodiments, the protective frame 2 further includes two connecting plates 29, and the two ends of the third plate 23 are respectively connected to the first end of the first plate 21 and the first end of the second plate 22 through the connecting plates 29. The first plate 21, the connecting plate 29, the third plate 23, the connecting plate 29 and the second plate 22 are sequentially connected to form the protective frame 2.

[0135] This embodiment provides connecting plates 29 at the connection points between the third plate 23 and the first plate 21 and the second plate 22. This not only facilitates the integral molding of this irregularly shaped protective frame 2, but also increases the strength of the protective frame 2 at the bending point, thereby improving the overall rigidity of the protective frame 2 and thus more effectively protecting the electrode assembly 1.

[0136] In some embodiments, a first pre-crease 25 is provided at the connection between the first plate 21 and the connecting plate 29, at the connection between the two ends of the third plate 23 and the two connecting plates 29 respectively, and at the connection between the second plate 22 and the connecting plate 29.

[0137] like Figure 16As shown, in this embodiment, the protective frame 2 can be configured as a long strip structure before assembly, making it less prone to deformation during storage and transportation. Specifically, two first pre-folds 25 spaced at a preset distance can be provided on both sides of the third plate 23, the preset distance being the width of the connecting plate 29. The opening 231 can extend on the third plate 23 to reach the outermost first pre-fold 25. Figure 17 As shown, during assembly, the protective frame 2 is bent at the first pre-fold 25 to form a predetermined structure. Since the strength of the protective frame 2 at the first pre-fold 25 is less than at other locations, after bending, the shape of the protective frame 2 can better match the electrode assembly 1, allowing the protective frame 2 to better protect the electrode assembly 1. For example, during assembly, the tab 12 can be passed through the opening 231 first, and then the protective frame 2 can be bent; or the protective frame 2 can be bent first, and then the tab 12 can be passed through the opening 231.

[0138] The following will combine Figures 3 to 13 The following are schematic diagrams illustrating the structure of some specific embodiments of the battery cell of this application.

[0139] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a battery cell 100 includes: a housing 3, an end cap assembly 4, and an electrode assembly 1. The housing 3 has an opening 31 facing a first direction x. The electrode assembly 1 is disposed within the housing 3, and the end cap assembly 4 is configured to close the opening 31. The end cap assembly 4 includes an end cap body 41 and electrode terminals 42 disposed on the end cap body 41. The housing 3 may have openings 31 at both ends along the first direction x, and the openings 31 at both ends are closed by an end cap body 41. An electrode terminal 42 is disposed on each of the two end cap bodies 41, and the two electrode terminals 42 are located in regions near different ends of their respective end cap bodies 41 along a third direction z. Figure 5 As shown, the tab 12 can be electrically connected to the electrode terminal 42 via the adapter 5.

[0140] like Figure 6 As shown, the battery cell 100 also includes a protective frame 2, which is an integrally formed structure and includes three protective plates. The three protective plates include a first plate 21, a second plate 22, and a third plate 23. The third plate 23 is located between the first plate 21 and the second plate 22, and its two ends are respectively connected to the first end of the first plate 21 and the first end of the second plate 22. The third plate 23 has an opening 231 that extends along a third direction z and is offset to one end relative to the center position. The opening 231 can be an elongated slot, and the tab 12 extends out from the opening 231. The third plate 23 is located between the main body 11 and the end cap assembly 4.

[0141] like Figure 7As shown, the electrode assembly 1 has a stacked structure. The electrode assembly 1 is stacked along the second direction y by means of a first electrode 111, a second electrode 112 and a diaphragm 113. The first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112 are arranged alternately with opposite polarities, and the diaphragm 113 separates the first electrode 111 and the second electrode 112.

[0142] like Figure 8 As shown, the first plate 21, the second plate 22 and the third plate 23 are all arranged parallel to the second direction y, and respectively protect the three sides of the electrode assembly 1. The first plate 21 and the second plate 22 are both perpendicular to the third direction z and are arranged opposite to each other, and the third plate 23 is perpendicular to the first direction x.

[0143] like Figure 9 As shown, before the protective frame 2 is assembled, it is a long strip thin plate structure. The connection between the third plate 23 and the first plate 21 and the connection between the third plate 23 and the second plate 22 are provided with a first pre-fold 25. The first pre-fold 25 can extend along the second direction y.

[0144] like Figure 10 As shown, the protective frame 2 is bent at the first pre-fold 25 to form an n-shaped structure, the shape of which can match the electrode assembly 1. During assembly, the tab 12 can be passed through the opening 231 first, and then the protective frame 2 can be bent; or the protective frame 2 can be bent first, and then the tab 12 can be passed through the opening 231.

[0145] like Figure 11 As shown, the thickness of the third plate 23 is greater than the thickness of the first plate 21 and the second plate 22. Alternatively, the protective frame 2 may also include a reinforcing plate 24, which is attached to the outer side of the third plate 23. The sum of the thicknesses of the reinforcing plate 24 and the third plate 23 is greater than the thicknesses of the first plate 21 and the second plate 22. For example, the reinforcing plate 24 may be a hot-melt plastic sheet, which is fixed to the third plate 23 by hot-melt.

[0146] The opening 231 extends along the width direction of the tab 12, which is a third direction z. The third plate 23 has a slit 232 at each end of the opening 231 along the width direction of the tab 12. Each slit 232 extends a predetermined distance to both sides of the opening 231, so that the opening 231 and the two slits 232 define two door structures 233. A second pre-fold 26 is provided at the line connecting the ends of the two slits 232 on the same side. The second pre-fold 26 can extend along the third direction z.

[0147] As the tab 12 passes through the opening 231, the two door structures 233 rotate along the second pre-fold 26 to open relative to each other in a direction away from the main body 11. After the tab 12 passes through, the door structures 233 return to their initial positions under the action of material elastic force or external force to better close the tab 12.

[0148] like Figure 12 As shown, the battery cell 100 also includes an adhesive layer 27, which is attached to the outside of the tab 12 to fix the tab 12 to the protective plate with the opening 231. Before installing the protective frame 2, the adhesive layer 27 is attached to both sides of the tab 12. After the tab 12 is passed through the opening 231 and the protective frame 2 is installed in place, the protective plate and the tab 12 can be kept relatively fixed to better secure the tab 12.

[0149] like Figure 13 As shown, the battery cell 100 also includes two plastic plates 28, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the opening 231. The plastic plates 28 are fixed to the outside of the protective plate of the opening 231 by heat fusion. The tab 12 extends out from the gap between the opening 231 and the two plastic plates 28. After the tab 12 passes through the opening 231, the two plastic plates 28 are fixed to the protective plate on both sides of the tab 12 by heat fusion, which can keep the protective plate and the tab 12 relatively fixed, so as to better contain the tab 12.

[0150] Figures 14 to 17 The following are schematic diagrams of the structure of some other embodiments of the battery cell of this application, which have been described in detail above and will not be repeated here.

[0151] Secondly, this application provides a method for manufacturing a battery cell 100. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 18 As shown, the manufacturing method includes:

[0152] S110, Component provision step: Provide electrode assembly 1 and protective frame 2; wherein, electrode assembly 1 includes main body 11 and electrode tab 12, electrode tab 12 is provided on the side of main body 11 along the first direction x, protective frame 2 is an integral structure and includes three protective plates, which are respectively used to protect the three sides of main body 11. The three protective plates include a first plate 21, a second plate 22 and a third plate 23, the third plate 23 is located between the first plate 21 and the second plate 22, and the two ends of the third plate 23 are respectively connected to the first end of the first plate 21 and the first end of the second plate 22. At least one of the first plate 21, the second plate 22 and the third plate 23 is provided with an opening 231;

[0153] S120, Electrode Lead-out Step: Lead the electrode 12 out from the opening 231;

[0154] S130, Frame assembly steps: Ensure that the three protective plates protect the three sides of the main body 11 respectively.

[0155] S110, S120 and S130 are executed sequentially.

[0156] Finally, this application provides a manufacturing apparatus 400 for a battery cell 100, in some embodiments, such as Figure 19As shown, the manufacturing apparatus 400 includes: a component supply device 410, a tab lead-out device 420, and a frame assembly device 430.

[0157] The component providing device 410 is configured to provide an electrode assembly 1 and a protective frame 2; wherein the electrode assembly 1 includes a main body 11 and a tab 12, the tab 12 being disposed on the side of the main body 11 along a first direction x; the protective frame 2 is an integral structure and includes three protective plates, which are respectively used to protect the three sides of the main body 11; the three protective plates include a first plate 21, a second plate 22 and a third plate 23, the third plate 23 being located between the first plate 21 and the second plate 22, and the two ends of the third plate 23 being respectively connected to the first end of the first plate 21 and the first end of the second plate 22; at least one of the first plate 21, the second plate 22 and the third plate 23 is provided with an opening 231.

[0158] The tab lead-out device 420 is configured to lead out the tab 12 from the opening 231.

[0159] The frame assembly equipment 430 is configured to protect the three sides of the main body 11 with three protective plates respectively.

[0160] 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 (100), comprising: Electrode assembly (1) includes a main body (11) and a tab (12) connected along a first direction (x) to a side of the main body (11); and The protective frame (2) is an integral structure and includes three protective plates, which are used to protect the three sides of the main body (11). The three protective plates include a first plate (21), a second plate (22), and a third plate (23). The third plate (23) is located between the first plate (21) and the second plate (22), and the two ends of the third plate (23) are respectively connected to the first end of the first plate (21) and the first end of the second plate (22). At least one of the first plate (21), the second plate (22), and the third plate (23) is provided with an opening (231). The opening (231) extends along the width direction of the tab (12). The protective plate provides a cut (232) at each end of the opening (231) along the width direction of the tab (12). Each cut (232) extends a predetermined distance to both sides of the opening (231) so that the opening (231) and the two cuts (232) define two gate structures (233) for converging the tab (12) passing through the opening (231). The two gate structures (233) are configured to open relative to each other in a direction away from the main body (11) and to press back toward the main body (11) after the tab (12) passes through the opening (231) to converge the tab (12). The tab (12) extends from the opening (231).

2. The battery cell (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The first plate (21), the second plate (22) and the third plate (23) are all arranged parallel to the second direction (y), and the second direction (y) is perpendicular to the first direction (x).

3. The battery cell (100) according to claim 2, wherein, The electrode assembly (1) is a stacked structure. The electrode assembly (1) has a first electrode (111) and a second electrode (112) with opposite polarities and stacked along the second direction (y). The first plate (21) and the second plate (22) respectively protect the two sides of the main body (11) perpendicular to the third direction (z). The third direction (z) is perpendicular to the first direction (x) and the second direction (y).

4. The battery cell (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The electrode assembly (1) includes two tabs (12), which are located on both sides of the main body (11) along the first direction (x). The opening (231) is provided on the third plate (23), and one of the tabs (12) extends out from the opening (231).

5. The battery cell (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The first plate (21), the second plate (22) and the third plate (23) all cover the corresponding protected side of the main body (11).

6. The battery cell (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The third plate (23) is provided with a first pre-fold (25) at the connection between the first plate (21) and the second plate (22).

7. The battery cell (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The thickness of the third plate (23) is greater than the thickness of the first plate (21) and the second plate (22); or The protective frame (2) also includes a reinforcing plate (24), which is attached to the side of the third plate (23). The sum of the thicknesses of the reinforcing plate (24) and the third plate (23) is greater than the thicknesses of the first plate (21) and the second plate (22).

8. The battery cell (100) according to claim 7, wherein, A second pre-crease (26) is provided at the line connecting the ends of the two cuts (232) on the same side.

9. The battery cell (100) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The protective frame (2) also includes a reinforcing plate (24), which is attached to the outer side of the third plate (23). The reinforcing plate (24) has a through groove (241), the size of which is not less than the area defined by the two cuts (232).

10. The battery cell (100) according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes an adhesive layer (27) which is attached to the outside of the tab (12) to fix the tab (12) to the protective plate with the opening (231).

11. The battery cell (100) according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes two plastic plates (28), which are respectively located on both sides of the opening (231). The plastic plates (28) are fixed to the outside of the protective plate where the opening (231) is located by heat fusion. The tab (12) is led out from the gap between the opening (231) and the two plastic plates (28).

12. The battery cell (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The opening (231) is provided on the third plate (23), and the first end of the first plate (21) and the first end of the second plate (22) are both higher than the outer side surface of the third plate (23) along the first direction (x).

13. The battery cell (100) according to claim 12, wherein, The protective frame (2) also includes two connecting plates (29). The two ends of the third plate (23) are respectively connected to the first end of the first plate (21) and the first end of the second plate (22) through one of the connecting plates (29).

14. The battery cell (100) according to claim 13, wherein, The first pre-fold (25) is provided at the connection between the first plate (21) and the connecting plate (29), at the connection between the two ends of the third plate (23) and the two connecting plates (29) respectively, and at the connection between the second plate (22) and the connecting plate (29).

15. A battery (200), comprising: The battery cell (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14. as well as Housing assembly (201) for accommodating the battery cell (100).

16. An electrical device comprising the battery (200) of claim 15, the battery (200) being used to provide electrical energy to the electrical device.

17. A method for manufacturing a battery cell (100), comprising: Component provision steps: Provide an electrode assembly (1) and a protective frame (2); wherein, the electrode assembly (1) includes a main body (11) and a tab (12), the tab (12) is disposed on the side of the main body (11) along a first direction (x), the protective frame (2) is an integral structure and includes three protective plates, which are respectively used to protect the three sides of the main body (11), the three protective plates include a first plate (21), a second plate (22) and a third plate (23), the third plate (23) is located between the first plate (21) and the second plate (22), and the two ends of the third plate (23) are respectively connected to the first end of the first plate (21) and the first end of the second plate (22), the first plate (21), the second plate (22) and the third plate (23) At least one of the plates has an opening (231) extending along the width direction of the tab (12). The protective plate has a cut (232) at each end of the opening (231) along the width direction of the tab (12). Each cut (232) extends a predetermined distance to both sides of the opening (231) so that the opening (231) and the two cuts (232) define two gate structures (233) for converging the tab (12) passing through the opening (231). The two gate structures (233) are configured to open relative to each other in a direction away from the main body (11) and to press back toward the main body (11) to converging the tab (12) after it passes through the opening (231). Electrode lead-out step: Lead the electrode (12) out from the opening (231); Frame assembly steps: The three protective plates protect the three sides of the main body (11) respectively.

18. An apparatus (400) for manufacturing a battery cell (100), comprising: A component providing device (410) is configured to provide an electrode assembly (1) and a protective frame (2); wherein the electrode assembly (1) includes a main body (11) and a tab (12), the tab (12) being disposed on the side of the main body (11) along a first direction (x); the protective frame (2) is an integral structure and includes three protective plates, which are respectively used to protect the three sides of the main body (11); the three protective plates include a first plate (21), a second plate (22), and a third plate (23); the third plate (23) is located between the first plate (21) and the second plate (22), and the two ends of the third plate (23) are respectively connected to the first end of the first plate (21) and the first end of the second plate (22); the first plate (21), the second plate (22), and the third plate... (23) has at least one opening (231) which extends along the width direction of the tab (12). The protective plate has a cut (232) at each end of the opening (231) along the width direction of the tab (12). Each cut (232) extends a predetermined distance to both sides of the opening (231) so that the opening (231) and the two cuts (232) define two gate structures (233) for converging the tab (12) passing through the opening (231). The two gate structures (233) are configured to open relative to each other in a direction away from the main body (11) and to press back toward the main body (11) to converging the tab (12) after the tab (12) passes through the opening (231). A tab lead-out device (420) is configured to lead out the tab (12) from the opening (231); and The frame assembly equipment (430) is configured to protect the three sides of the main body (11) respectively with the three protective plates.

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