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

Abstract

This application provides a battery cell, a battery, an electrical device, and a method and apparatus for manufacturing the battery cell, belonging to the field of battery technology. The battery cell includes a housing, an electrode assembly, and an end cap. The housing has an opening. The electrode assembly is housed within the housing. The end cap connects to the housing and closes the opening. The end cap has multiple reinforcing portions arranged in a cross pattern, intersecting at the center of the end cap. These reinforcing portions enhance the rigidity of the end cap. The multiple reinforcing portions strengthen the central region of the end cap, enhancing its resistance to deformation and reducing the risk of safety accidents caused by outward deformation of the central region due to increased internal pressure within the battery cell.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] With the development of new energy technologies, batteries are being used more and more widely, for example in mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric cars, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes, and power tools.

[0003] In the development of battery technology, in addition to improving the performance of individual battery cells, safety is also a crucial consideration. Therefore, how to improve the safety of individual battery cells is an urgent problem to be solved in battery technology. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a battery cell, a battery, an electrical device, and a method and apparatus for manufacturing the battery cell, which can effectively reduce the risk of safety accidents involving battery cells.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a battery cell, comprising: a housing having an opening; an electrode assembly housed within the housing; and an end cap for connecting the housing and closing the opening; wherein the end cap is provided with a plurality of cross-arranged reinforcing portions intersecting at the center of the end cap, the reinforcing portions being used to enhance the rigidity of the end cap.

[0006] In the above technical solution, the end cap is provided with multiple reinforcing parts arranged in a cross pattern, and the multiple reinforcing parts intersect at the center of the end cap. The multiple reinforcing parts can strengthen the central area of ​​the end cap, enhance the deformation resistance of the central area of ​​the end cap, and reduce the risk of safety accidents caused by the central area of ​​the end cap bulging outward due to the increased internal pressure of the battery cell.

[0007] In some embodiments, the end cap has an inner surface facing the electrode assembly along its thickness direction, and the reinforcement protrudes from the inner surface. This structure allows the reinforcement to be located inside the battery cell, without occupying space outside the battery cell, thus reducing the overall volume of the battery cell.

[0008] In some embodiments, along the thickness direction of the end cap, the end cap has an outer surface facing away from the electrode assembly; a recess is provided on the end cap at a position corresponding to the reinforcing portion, the recess being recessed from the outer surface towards the electrode assembly. The recess on the end cap, on the one hand, creates a cavity structure inside the reinforcing portion, enhancing its reinforcing capacity and further improving the deformation resistance of the central region of the end cap; on the other hand, the recess provides deformation space when the area of ​​the end cap where the reinforcing portion is located deforms outwards.

[0009] In some embodiments, the battery cell further includes a current collector, disposed along the thickness direction of the end cap on the side of the end cap facing the electrode assembly. The current collector connects the electrode assembly and the end cap to achieve electrical connection between the end cap and the electrode assembly. The reinforcing portion has a contact surface formed on the side opposite to the inner surface, and this contact surface abuts against the current collector. The reinforcing portion not only strengthens the end cap but also facilitates the electrical connection between the current collector and the end cap. The contact surface of the reinforcing portion abuts against the current collector, achieving a large-area contact between the reinforcing portion and the end cap, thus increasing the flow area between the current collector and the end cap.

[0010] In some embodiments, the reinforcing portion is welded to the current collector. This structure makes the connection between the reinforcing portion and the current collector more secure, preventing the current collector from shifting relative to the end cap and ensuring stable flow between the current collector and the end cap. Furthermore, welding the reinforcing portion to the current collector allows the current collector to restrain the end cap, preventing outward deformation of the central region of the end cap.

[0011] In some embodiments, the end cap includes a pressure relief section configured to open when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell reaches a threshold, thereby releasing the internal pressure of the battery cell; the projection of the pressure relief section onto a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction of the end cap does not overlap with that of the plurality of reinforcing sections. This structure effectively reduces the influence of the reinforcing sections on the pressure relief section, allowing the pressure relief section to open more effectively to release pressure inside the battery cell or when the pressure reaches the threshold.

[0012] In some embodiments, the plurality of reinforcing portions divide the end cap into a plurality of first pressure relief zones, which are circumferentially spaced around the central position, and each first pressure relief zone is provided with at least one pressure relief part. The pressure relief parts in the plurality of first pressure relief zones can all be opened to relieve pressure, increasing the pressure relief area of ​​the battery cell and improving the pressure relief efficiency of the battery cell.

[0013] In some embodiments, a pressure relief section is provided in each of the first pressure relief zones. This structure simplifies the structure of the end cap.

[0014] In some embodiments, the battery cell further includes a current collector, disposed along the thickness direction of the end cap on the side of the end cap facing the electrode assembly. The current collector connects the electrode assembly and the end cap to achieve electrical connection between the end cap and the electrode assembly. The current collector has multiple second pressure relief zones, corresponding to the first pressure relief zones, and each second pressure relief zone has a through hole. During the pressure relief process of the battery cell, the through holes in the second pressure relief zones form channels for the outward flow of emissions from inside the battery cell, reducing the obstruction effect of the current collector on the emissions and allowing the emissions from inside the battery cell to be discharged promptly after the pressure relief section is opened.

[0015] In some embodiments, the surface of the current collector facing the reinforcing portion is provided with a plurality of positioning portions, which are used to form a positioning engagement with the plurality of reinforcing portions. The plurality of positioning portions on the current collector and the plurality of reinforcing portions on the end cap form a positioning engagement, which can accurately and quickly determine the installation position of the end cap, so that the end cap is positioned so that the second pressure relief area corresponds to the first pressure relief area, thereby improving the installation efficiency of the end cap.

[0016] In some embodiments, the end cap is provided with a pressure relief groove that extends along the edge of the pressure relief portion to define the pressure relief portion. Forming the pressure relief portion by providing a pressure relief groove simplifies the molding process and effectively reduces production costs.

[0017] In some embodiments, the pressure relief groove has a distance between its two ends in its extending direction. Thus, during pressure relief, the end cap will crack along the pressure relief groove, but the area between the two ends of the pressure relief groove will not crack, allowing the pressure relief part to open in an outward flip-out manner, preventing the pressure relief part from falling off and flying out entirely during pressure relief.

[0018] In some embodiments, the pressure relief groove has an open position, and the end cap is configured to split along the pressure relief groove from the open position toward both ends of the pressure relief groove when the pressure or temperature inside the battery cell reaches a threshold, thereby opening the pressure relief portion; a blank area is formed between the two ends of the pressure relief groove, and the blank area is further away from the center position than the open position. During pressure relief, as the end cap splits along the pressure relief groove from the open position toward both ends of the pressure relief groove, because the blank area is further away from the center position of the end cap than the open position, the pressure relief portion will flip outward from the open position in a direction away from the center position, avoiding interference between the pressure relief portion and the reinforcing portion when flipped open, and increasing the opening area of ​​the pressure relief portion.

[0019] In some embodiments, the pressure relief groove includes a first groove segment, a second groove segment, a third groove segment, and a fourth groove segment connected in sequence. A blank area is formed between the end of the first groove segment away from the second groove segment and the end of the fourth groove segment away from the third groove segment. The second and third groove segments both extend along a straight trajectory and are set at a non-zero angle. The connection point between the second and third groove segments forms the opening position. The connection point between the second and third groove segments forms a sharp angle, which is the weakest point and forms the opening position that opens first. This ensures that when the pressure or temperature inside the battery cell reaches a threshold, the end cap cracks along the pressure relief groove from the opening position towards both ends of the pressure relief groove, allowing the pressure relief portion to flip outwards from the opening position towards the direction away from the center.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first and fourth groove segments are arc-shaped. During the pressure relief process, since both the first and fourth groove segments are arc-shaped, the end cap opens more smoothly along the first and second groove segments, which is more conducive to the pressure relief part flipping outward and opening.

[0021] In some embodiments, the pressure relief groove and the reinforcing portion are respectively disposed on two opposite surfaces of the end cap along the thickness direction. This structure ensures that the forming of the pressure relief groove is not affected by the reinforcing portion, facilitating the forming and processing of the pressure relief groove.

[0022] In some embodiments, the plurality of reinforcing portions includes two intersecting and perpendicular reinforcing portions. The two intersecting and perpendicular reinforcing portions have a simple structure, effectively simplifying the end cap structure and enhancing the deformation resistance of the central region of the end cap.

[0023] In some embodiments, the end cap has a circular structure, and the reinforcing portion extends radially along the end cap. This type of reinforcing portion provides excellent reinforcement to the end cap, has a simple structure, and is easy to mold.

[0024] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a battery, comprising: a battery cell provided in any one of the embodiments of the first aspect; and a housing for accommodating the battery cell.

[0025] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an electrical device, including the battery provided in any one of the embodiments of the second aspect.

[0026] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a method for manufacturing a battery cell, the method comprising: providing a housing having an opening; providing an electrode assembly; providing an end cap having a plurality of cross-arranged reinforcing portions intersecting at the center of the end cap, the reinforcing portions being used to enhance the rigidity of the end cap; accommodating the electrode assembly within the housing; and connecting the end cap to the housing so that the end cap closes the opening.

[0027] Fifthly, embodiments of this application also provide a manufacturing apparatus for a battery cell, the manufacturing apparatus comprising: a first providing device for providing a housing having an opening; a second providing device for providing an electrode assembly; a third providing device for providing an end cap having a plurality of cross-arranged reinforcing portions intersecting at the center of the end cap, the reinforcing portions being used to enhance the rigidity of the end cap; and an assembly device for accommodating the electrode assembly within the housing and for connecting the end cap to the housing so that the end cap closes the opening. Attached Figure Description

[0028] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0029] Figure 1 This application provides structural schematic diagrams of vehicles for some embodiments;

[0030] Figure 2 Exploded views of batteries provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 3 Cross-sectional views of a battery cell provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The exploded view of the battery cell shown;

[0033] Figure 5 for Figure 3 A partial view of the battery cell shown;

[0034] Figure 6 for Figure 5 The bottom view of the end cap shown;

[0035] Figure 7 for Figure 5 The isometric view of the flow collector shown;

[0036] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery cell according to some embodiments of this application;

[0037] Figure 9 This is a schematic block diagram of a battery cell manufacturing apparatus provided for some embodiments of this application.

[0038] Icons: 10-Box; 11-First section; 12-Second section; 20-Battery cell; 21-Housing shell; 22-Electrode assembly; 23-End cap; 231-Reinforcing part; 2311-Abutting surface; 232-Inner surface; 233-Outer surface; 234-Recess; 2341-Bottom surface; 235-Pressure relief part; 236-First pressure relief area; 237-Pressure relief groove; 2371-Opening position; 2372-First groove segment; 2373-Second groove segment; 2374-Third groove Section; 2375-Fourth slot section; 2376-Blank area; 24-Electrode terminal; 25-Current collector; 251-Second pressure relief area; 2511-Through hole; 252-Flow guide hole; 253-Positioning part; 100-Battery; 200-Controller; 300-Motor; 1000-Vehicle; 2000-Manufacturing equipment; 2100-First supply device; 2200-Second supply device; 2300-Third supply device; 2400-Assembly device; Z-Thickness direction. Detailed Implementation

[0039] 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.

[0040] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0041] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a particular 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 in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0042] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0043] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0044] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0045] In this application, "multiple" means two or more (including two).

[0046] 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, square battery cells, and pouch battery cells, and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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 positive current collector protrudes beyond the coated one, 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 negative current collector protrudes beyond the coated one, serving as the negative electrode tab. The negative electrode current collector can be made of copper, and the negative electrode active material can be carbon or silicon, etc. To ensure that a large current can pass through without melting, there are multiple positive electrode tabs stacked together, and there are multiple negative electrode tabs stacked together. The separator can be made of PP (polypropylene) or PE (polyethylene), etc. In addition, the electrode assembly can be a wound structure or a stacked structure, and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0049] The development of battery technology must take into account multiple design factors, such as energy density, cycle life, discharge capacity, charge / discharge rate and other performance parameters. In addition, battery safety also needs to be considered.

[0050] A battery consists of a casing and multiple individual battery cells arranged within the casing. The inventors noted that batteries are prone to explosions, fires, and other hazards, leading to safety accidents.

[0051] To reduce the risk of battery explosions and fires, pressure relief mechanisms are typically installed on individual battery cells to release internal pressure in the event of thermal runaway. However, despite these mechanisms, safety incidents still frequently occur.

[0052] Further research by the inventors revealed that the central area of ​​the end cap of a battery cell is most prone to deformation. When the internal pressure of the battery cell increases, the central area of ​​the end cap deforms the most, causing it to bulge outward, encroaching on the gap between other battery cells, or even squeezing other battery cells, thus causing a safety accident.

[0053] In view of this, this application provides a battery cell by providing a plurality of reinforcing parts arranged in a cross pattern on the end cap, with the plurality of reinforcing parts intersecting at the center of the end cap.

[0054] In such a battery cell, multiple reinforcing parts can strengthen the central area of ​​the end cap, enhance the deformation resistance of the central area of ​​the end cap, and reduce the risk of safety accidents caused by the central area of ​​the end cap bulging outward due to the increased internal pressure of the battery cell.

[0055] The battery cells described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to batteries and electrical devices that use batteries.

[0056] Electrical equipment can include vehicles, mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and power tools, etc. Vehicles can be gasoline-powered cars, natural gas-powered cars, or new energy vehicles; new energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. 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, etc. This application does not impose any special limitations on the above-mentioned electrical equipment.

[0057] For ease of explanation, the following embodiments use a vehicle as an example of electrical equipment.

[0058] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 The diagram below illustrates the structure of a vehicle 1000 according to some embodiments of this application. A battery 100 is disposed inside the vehicle 1000, and the battery 100 may be located at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle 1000. The battery 100 can be used to power the vehicle 1000; for example, the battery 100 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000.

[0059] The vehicle 1000 may also include a controller 200 and a motor 300. The controller 200 is used to control the battery 100 to supply power to the motor 300, for example, for the power needs of the vehicle 1000 during startup, navigation and driving.

[0060] In some embodiments of this application, the battery 100 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000, but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 1000, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.

[0061] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 The exploded view of a battery 100 provided in some embodiments of this application shows that the battery 100 includes a housing 10 and a battery cell 20, with the housing 10 used to house the battery cell 20.

[0062] The housing 10 is a component that houses the battery cell 20, providing a space for the battery cell 20. The housing 10 can adopt various structures. In some embodiments, the housing 10 may include a first part 11 and a second part 12, which overlap each other to define a space for accommodating the battery cell 20. The first part 11 and the second part 12 can have various shapes, such as a cuboid or a cylinder. The first part 11 can be a hollow structure open on one side, and the second part 12 can also be a hollow structure open on one side, with the open side of the second part 12 overlapping the open side of the first part 11, thus forming a housing 10 with a accommodating space. Alternatively, the first part 11 can be a hollow structure open on one side, and the second part 12 can be a plate-like structure, with the second part 12 overlapping the open side of the first part 11, thus forming a housing 10 with a accommodating space. The first part 11 and the second part 12 can be sealed using a sealing element, such as a sealing ring or sealant.

[0063] In battery 100, there can be one or more battery cells 20. If there are multiple battery cells 20, they can be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner. A mixed connection means that multiple battery cells 20 are connected in both series and parallel. Alternatively, multiple battery cells 20 can be first connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner to form a battery module, and then multiple battery modules can be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner to form a whole, which is then housed within the housing 10. Another option is that all battery cells 20 can be directly connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner, and then the whole consisting of all battery cells 20 is housed within the housing 10.

[0064] In some embodiments, the battery 100 may further include a busbar component, through which multiple battery cells 20 can be electrically connected to each other, enabling series, parallel, or mixed connection of the multiple battery cells 20. The busbar component may be a metallic conductor, such as copper, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, etc.

[0065] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell 20 provided in some embodiments of this application. The battery cell 20 includes a housing 21, an electrode assembly 22, and an end cap 23.

[0066] The housing 21 is a component used to house the electrode assembly 22. The housing 21 can be a hollow structure with an opening at one end, or it can be a hollow structure with openings at both opposite ends. The housing 21 can be in various shapes, such as a cylinder or a cuboid. The housing 21 can be made of various materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, or aluminum alloy.

[0067] Electrode assembly 22 is the component in the battery cell 20 where the electrochemical reaction occurs. Electrode assembly 22 may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. Electrode assembly 22 can be a wound structure formed by winding the positive electrode, separator, and negative electrode, or a stacked structure formed by arranging the positive electrode, separator, and negative electrode in layers. Electrode assembly 22 has positive electrode tabs and negative electrode tabs. The positive electrode tab can be the portion of the positive electrode that is not coated with a positive active material layer, and the negative electrode tab can be the portion of the negative electrode that is not coated with a negative active material layer.

[0068] End cap 23 is a component connected to housing 21 and sealing the opening of housing 21 to isolate the internal environment of battery cell 20 from the external environment. End cap 23 can be welded to housing 21 to achieve a seal between the two. End cap 23 can be made of various materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, aluminum alloy, etc. The shape of end cap 23 can be adapted to the shape of housing 21. For example, if housing 21 is a cuboid structure, end cap 23 can be a rectangular plate structure adapted to housing 21; or if housing 21 is a cylindrical structure, end cap 23 can be a circular plate structure adapted to housing 21.

[0069] In the battery cell 20, there can be one or two end caps 23. If the housing 21 is a hollow structure with an opening at one end, then one end cap 23 is provided. If the housing 21 is a hollow structure with openings at both ends, then two end caps 23 are provided, and the two end caps 23 respectively cover the two openings of the housing 21.

[0070] Electrode terminals 24 can be provided in the battery cell 20. The electrode terminals 24 can be located on the end cap 23 or on the housing 21. The electrode terminals 24 are used for electrical connection with the electrode assembly 22 to output the electrical energy of the battery cell 20. If there are two end caps 23 in the battery cell 20, both end caps 23 can be provided with electrode terminals 24. The electrode terminals 24 on one end cap 23 can be electrically connected to the positive electrode tab of the electrode assembly 22, and the electrode terminals 24 on the other end cap 23 can be electrically connected to the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 22. If there is only one end cap 23 in the battery cell 20, at least one of the end cap 23 and the housing 21 can be provided with electrode terminals 24. For example, as shown... Figure 3 As shown, an electrode terminal 24 can be provided at one end of the housing 21 opposite to the end cover 23. One of the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 22 is electrically connected to the electrode terminal 24, and the other of the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 22 is electrically connected to the end cover 23.

[0071] A current collector 25 can also be provided in the battery cell 20 to achieve electrical connection between the electrode terminal 24 and the tab or between the end cap 23 and the tab. Figure 3As shown, taking the end cap 23 in the battery cell 20 as an example, one of the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 22 is connected to the electrode terminal 24 on the housing 21 through a current collector 25, and the other of the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 22 is connected to the end cap 23 through another current collector 25.

[0072] Please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 4 for Figure 3 The exploded view of the battery cell 20 shown in this application embodiment provides a battery cell 20, which includes a housing 21, an electrode assembly 22, and an end cap 23. The housing 21 has an opening. The electrode assembly 22 is housed within the housing 21. The end cap 23 is used to connect to the housing 21 and close the opening. The end cap 23 is provided with a plurality of cross-arranged reinforcing portions 231, which intersect at the center of the end cap 23, and the reinforcing portions 231 are used to enhance the rigidity of the end cap 23.

[0073] Multiple reinforcing parts 231 intersect at the center of the end cap 23, meaning the area where the multiple reinforcing parts 231 intersect is located at the center of the end cap 23. The multiple reinforcing parts 231 are arranged in a crisscross pattern; understandably, the multiple reinforcing parts 231 intersect in the same area, which divides each reinforcing part 231 into two segments located on either side of that area. The center of the end cap 23 can be its geometric center; for example, if the end cap 23 is circular, its center is the center of the circle. It is understandable that, along the radial direction of the end cap 23, as long as the area where the multiple reinforcing parts 231 intersect is not completely deviated from the center of the end cap 23, it should be understood that the multiple reinforcing parts 231 intersect at the center of the end cap 23.

[0074] The reinforcing portions 231 on the end cap 23 can be two, three, four, etc. The reinforcing portions 231 can be protruding structures on the inner surface 232 of the end cap 23 or protruding structures on the outer surface 233 of the end cap 23. The reinforcing portions 231 can extend along a straight line or along a curved path. Taking two reinforcing portions 231 on the end cap 23, extending along a straight line, as an example, the two reinforcing portions 231 arranged intersectingly can form a "+" or "X" shape on the end cap 23. That is, the two reinforcing portions 231 can be arranged at right angles or at acute angles.

[0075] In this embodiment of the application, the end cap 23 is provided with a plurality of reinforcing parts 231 arranged in a cross pattern, and the plurality of reinforcing parts 231 intersect at the center of the end cap 23. The plurality of reinforcing parts 231 can strengthen the central area of ​​the end cap 23, enhance the deformation resistance of the central area of ​​the end cap 23, and reduce the risk of safety accidents caused by the central area of ​​the end cap 23 bulging outward due to the increased internal pressure of the battery cell 20.

[0076] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 for Figure 3 The partial view of the battery cell 20 shown shows that, along the thickness direction Z of the end cap 23, the end cap 23 has an inner surface 232 facing the electrode assembly 22, and a reinforcing part 231 protrudes from the inner surface 232.

[0077] The inner surface 232 is the surface of the end cap 23 facing the electrode assembly 22, and the inner surface 232 faces the interior of the battery cell 20.

[0078] In this embodiment, the reinforcing part 231 protrudes from the inner surface 232, so that the reinforcing part 231 is located inside the battery cell 20. The reinforcing part 231 will not occupy the space outside the battery cell 20, thus reducing the overall volume of the battery cell 20.

[0079] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 5 Along the thickness direction Z of the end cap 23, the end cap 23 has an outer surface 233 that faces away from the electrode assembly 22. A recess 234 is provided on the end cap 23 at a position corresponding to the reinforcing part 231, and the recess 234 is recessed from the outer surface 233 toward the direction close to the electrode assembly 22.

[0080] The outer surface 233 is the surface of the end cap 23 that faces away from the electrode assembly 22, and the outer surface 233 faces the outside of the battery cell 20.

[0081] The recesses 234 and reinforcing parts 231 correspond one-to-one, and the extending direction of the recesses 234 is consistent with the extending direction of the reinforcing parts 231. Understandably, if the reinforcing part 231 extends along a straight line, the recesses 234 also extend along a straight line; if the reinforcing part 231 extends along a curved path, the recesses 234 also extend along a curved path. Taking an end cap 23 with two reinforcing parts 231 arranged in a cross shape to form a "+" structure as an example, the end cap 23 has two recesses 234, and these two recesses 234 can also correspondingly form a "+" structure.

[0082] In this embodiment, a recess 234 is provided at the position corresponding to the reinforcing part 231 on the end cap 23. On the one hand, this makes the interior of the reinforcing part 231 form a cavity structure, which enhances the reinforcing ability of the reinforcing part 231 and further improves the deformation resistance of the central area of ​​the end cap 23. On the other hand, the recess 234 can provide deformation space when the area of ​​the end cap 23 where the reinforcing part 231 is provided protrudes outward and deforms.

[0083] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 5The battery cell 20 also includes a current collector 25. Along the thickness direction Z of the end cap 23, the current collector 25 is disposed on the side of the end cap 23 facing the electrode assembly 22. The current collector 25 is used to connect the electrode assembly 22 and the end cap 23 to achieve electrical connection between the end cap 23 and the electrode assembly 22. Among them, the reinforcing part 231 has a contact surface 2311 formed on the side opposite to the inner surface 232, and the contact surface 2311 abuts against the current collector 25.

[0084] The current collector 25 is a component that enables electrical connection between the end cap 23 and the electrode assembly 22. The current collector 25 is connected to the tab of the electrode assembly 22 to achieve electrical connection between the current collector 25 and the electrode assembly 22. This tab can be a positive tab or a negative tab. The abutment surface 2311 of the reinforcing part 231 abuts against the current collector 25 to achieve electrical connection between the current collector 25 and the end cap 23.

[0085] The current collector 25 is a conductor and can be made of materials such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, or aluminum alloy. The current collector 25 can be a plate-like structure or a multi-layered folded structure. In section 5, the shell 21 has a cylindrical structure, and the current collector 25 is correspondingly set as a circular plate-like structure; the current collector 25 can also be called a current collector plate.

[0086] In this embodiment, the reinforcing part 231 not only serves to reinforce the end cap 23, but also to achieve electrical connection between the current collector 25 and the end cap 23. The abutting surface 2311 of the reinforcing part 231 abuts against the current collector 25, achieving a large-area contact between the reinforcing part 231 and the end cap 23, thereby increasing the flow area between the current collector 25 and the end cap 23.

[0087] In some embodiments, the reinforcing part 231 is welded to the current collection member 25.

[0088] In the actual welding process, the reinforcing part 231 and the current collection component 25 can be welded together by penetration welding on the outside of the end cap 23.

[0089] In embodiments where a recess 234 is provided on the end cap 23, the recess 234 can be considered as a welding groove of the end cap 23. The area where the reinforcing part 231 is welded to the current collector 25 corresponds to the area of ​​the end cap 23 where the recess 234 is provided. The recess 234 reduces the thickness of the welding area of ​​the reinforcing part 231, thereby improving the strength of the weld between the reinforcing part 231 and the current collector 25. For example, please continue to refer to... Figure 5The bottom surface 2341 of the recess 234 can be closer to the electrode assembly 22 than the inner surface 232 of the end cap 23. Along the thickness direction Z of the end cap 23, the distance between the abutment surface 2311 and the bottom surface 2341 of the recess 234 is equal to the distance between the outer surface 233 and the inner surface 232 of the end cap 23. That is, the residual thickness of the reinforcing part 231 after the recess 234 is provided on the end cap 23 is equal to the thickness of the end cap 23.

[0090] In this embodiment, the reinforcing part 231 is welded to the current collecting member 25, making the connection between the reinforcing part 231 and the current collecting member 25 more secure. The current collecting member 25 will not be displaced relative to the end cap 23, ensuring stable flow between the current collecting member 25 and the end cap 23. In addition, the reinforcing part 231 is welded to the current collecting member 25, so that the current collecting member 25 has a restraining effect on the end cap 23, preventing the central area of ​​the end cap 23 from bulging outward.

[0091] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6 for Figure 5 The end cap 23 shown is a bottom view. The end cap 23 includes a pressure relief section 235, which is configured to open when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell 20 reaches a threshold, in order to release the internal pressure of the battery cell 20. The pressure relief section 235 and the projections of the plurality of reinforcing sections 231 on a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction Z of the end cap 23 do not overlap.

[0092] During the process of releasing the pressure inside the battery cell 20, the pressure relief section 235 can open in several ways. For example, the pressure relief section 235 can be completely separated from the other parts of the end cover 23 to open the pressure relief section 235. Alternatively, the pressure relief section 235 can be flipped outward relative to the other parts of the end cover 23 to open the pressure relief section 235.

[0093] The projections of the pressure relief part 235 and the plurality of reinforcing parts 231 on the plane perpendicular to the thickness direction Z of the end cover 23 do not overlap. That is, on the plane perpendicular to the thickness direction Z of the end cover 23, the projection of the pressure relief part 235 will not overlap with the projection of any one of the reinforcing parts 231.

[0094] In this embodiment, the projections of the pressure relief section 235 and the plurality of reinforcing sections 231 on the plane perpendicular to the thickness direction Z of the end cover 23 do not overlap. This structure can effectively reduce the influence of the reinforcing sections 231 on the pressure relief section 235, so that the pressure relief section 235 can better open to relieve pressure inside the battery cell 20 or when the pressure reaches the threshold.

[0095] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 6Multiple reinforcing parts 231 divide the end cover 23 into multiple first pressure relief zones 236. The multiple first pressure relief zones 236 are circumferentially distributed around the center position of the end cover 23, and at least one pressure relief part 235 is provided in each first pressure relief zone 236.

[0096] The pressure relief section 235 in the first pressure relief zone 236 can be one or more, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0097] Taking a circular end cap 23 as an example, the end cap 23 is divided into multiple fan-shaped first pressure relief zones 236 by multiple reinforcing parts 231. In an embodiment where there are two reinforcing parts 231 on the end cap 23, it is understood that the two reinforcing parts 231 divide the end cap 23 into four first pressure relief zones 236.

[0098] In this embodiment, each first pressure relief zone 236 is provided with a pressure relief part 235. The pressure relief parts 235 of multiple first pressure relief zones 236 can be opened to relieve pressure, thereby increasing the pressure relief area of ​​the battery cell 20 and improving the pressure relief efficiency of the battery cell 20.

[0099] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 6 Each first pressure relief zone 236 is provided with a corresponding pressure relief part 235. This effectively simplifies the structure of the end cover 23.

[0100] In some embodiments, please combine Figures 5-7 , Figure 7 for Figure 5 The isometric view of the current collector 25 shown indicates that the battery cell 20 also includes the current collector 25. Along the thickness direction Z of the end cap 23, the current collector 25 is disposed on the side of the end cap 23 facing the electrode assembly 22. The current collector 25 is used to connect the electrode assembly 22 and the end cap 23 to achieve electrical connection between the end cap 23 and the electrode assembly 22. The current collector 25 has multiple second pressure relief regions 251, which are correspondingly arranged with the first pressure relief region 236. Each second pressure relief region 251 has a through hole 2511.

[0101] The second pressure relief zone 251 is configured to correspond to the first pressure relief zone 236, that is, the second pressure relief zone 251 and the first pressure relief zone 236 are in one-to-one correspondence. Taking the end cover 23 forming four first pressure relief zones 236 as an example, the flow collection member 25 also forms four second pressure relief zones 251, and each second pressure relief zone 251 corresponds to one first pressure relief zone 236.

[0102] The second pressure relief region 251 is the region corresponding to the first pressure relief region 236 of the collector component 25 and the end cap 23. Each second pressure relief region 251 can have one or more through holes 2511. The through holes 2511 can penetrate the surface of the collector component 25 along the thickness direction Z of the end cap 23. The shape of the through holes 2511 can be various, such as circular, polygonal, etc. For example, in... Figure 7 In the middle, each second pressure relief zone 251 is provided with multiple through holes 2511, and the through holes 2511 are circular holes.

[0103] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the current collector 25 is also provided with a guide hole 252 at the center position, which is opposite to the center hole of the electrode assembly 22, and multiple second pressure relief zones 251 are distributed circumferentially along the guide hole 252.

[0104] In this embodiment, the through hole 2511 on the second pressure relief area 251 will form a channel for the discharge inside the battery cell 20 to flow outward during the pressure relief process of the battery cell 20, reducing the obstruction effect of the current collector 25 on the discharge, so that the discharge inside the battery cell 20 can be discharged in time after the pressure relief part 235 is opened.

[0105] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 7 The surface of the current collecting member 25 facing the reinforcing part 231 is provided with a plurality of positioning parts 253, which are used to form a positioning fit with the plurality of reinforcing parts 231.

[0106] Multiple positioning portions 253 on the current collector 25 can be arranged along the edge contour of the overall structure formed by multiple reinforcing portions 231, thereby positioning the reinforcing portions 231. Taking the example of two reinforcing portions 231 arranged on the end cap 23 and the two reinforcing portions 231 forming a "+" shape, the multiple positioning portions 253 can be arranged along the edge contour of the "+" shape, so that the multiple positioning portions 253 define a "+" shaped groove to accommodate and position the two reinforcing portions 231.

[0107] For example, each second pressure relief zone 251 is provided with multiple positioning parts 253. Figure 7 In the middle, each second pressure relief zone 251 is provided with three positioning parts 253, and the three positioning parts 253 are respectively located at the triangle of the right triangle.

[0108] In this embodiment, the multiple positioning parts 253 on the current collecting member 25 can form a positioning fit with the multiple reinforcing parts 231 on the end cover 23, which can accurately and quickly determine the installation position of the end cover 23 so that the end cover 23 is in a position where the second pressure relief area 251 and the first pressure relief area 236 are correspondingly set, thereby improving the installation efficiency of the end cover 23.

[0109] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 6 The end cap 23 is provided with a pressure relief groove 237, which extends along the edge of the pressure relief portion 235 to define the pressure relief portion 235.

[0110] When the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell 20 reaches a threshold, the end cap 23 will crack along the pressure relief groove 237 to allow the pressure relief section 235 to open and release pressure.

[0111] The pressure relief groove 237 on the end cap 23 can be formed in various ways, such as by stamping or milling. The pressure relief groove 237 can be a closed-loop structure with its ends connected, or it can be a non-closed structure with a distance between its ends. If the pressure relief groove 237 is a closed-loop structure, during the process of releasing the pressure inside the battery cell 20, the pressure relief part 235 can be completely separated from the other parts of the end cap 23 to open the pressure relief part 235. The pressure relief part 235 defined by the closed-loop pressure relief groove 237 can be circular, elliptical, triangular, etc. If the pressure relief groove 237 is a non-closed-loop structure, during the process of releasing the pressure inside the battery cell 20, the pressure relief part 235 can be flipped outward relative to the other parts of the end cap 23 to open the pressure relief part 235. The pressure relief part 235 defined by the non-closed-loop pressure relief groove 237 can be semi-circular, triangular, etc.

[0112] In this embodiment, the pressure relief part 235 is formed by setting the pressure relief groove 237, which simplifies the molding process and can effectively reduce production costs.

[0113] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 6 The pressure relief groove 237 has a distance between its two ends in its extending direction. Understandably, the pressure relief groove 237 is a non-closed structure with a distance between its beginning and end.

[0114] In this way, when the pressure is released, the end cap 23 will crack along the pressure relief groove 237, but the area between the two ends of the pressure relief groove 237 will not crack, so that the pressure relief part 235 can be opened in an outward flipping manner, preventing the pressure relief part 235 from falling off and flying out as a whole when the pressure is released.

[0115] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 6 The pressure relief groove 237 has an opening position 2371. The end cap 23 is configured to open the pressure relief section 235 by splitting along the pressure relief groove 237 from the opening position 2371 to both ends of the pressure relief groove 237 when the pressure or temperature inside the battery cell 20 reaches a threshold. A blank area 2376 is formed between the two ends of the pressure relief groove 237, and the blank area 2376 is further away from the center of the end cap 23 than the opening position 2371.

[0116] The opening position 2371 of the pressure relief groove 237 is the position where the end cover 23 will crack first. The position of the end cover 23 corresponding to the opening position 2371 can be set to be the weakest. When the pressure or temperature inside the battery cell 20 reaches the threshold, the end cover 23 will crack first at the opening position 2371, so that the end cover 23 will crack from the opening position 2371 to both ends of the pressure relief groove 237.

[0117] The blank area 2376 is the straight line area where the two ends of the pressure relief groove 237 are located. During the process of the opening part opening outward, the opening part can be rotated approximately around the straight line area as the axis.

[0118] During pressure relief, as the end cap 23 splits open along the pressure relief groove 237 from the opening position 2371 towards both ends of the pressure relief groove 237, the pressure relief part 235 will flip open from the opening position 2371 in a direction away from the center position because the blank area 2376 is farther away from the center position of the end cap 23 than the opening position 2371. This avoids interference between the pressure relief part 235 and the reinforcing part 231 when the pressure relief part 235 is flipped open, thereby increasing the opening area of ​​the pressure relief part 235.

[0119] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 6 The pressure relief groove 237 includes a first groove segment 2372, a second groove segment 2373, a third groove segment 2374, and a fourth groove segment 2375 connected in sequence. A blank area 2376 is formed between the end of the first groove segment 2372 away from the second groove segment 2373 and the end of the fourth groove segment 2375 away from the third groove segment 2374. The second groove segment 2373 and the third groove segment 2374 both extend along a straight trajectory. The second groove segment 2373 and the third groove segment 2374 are set at a non-zero included angle. The connection position of the second groove segment 2373 and the third groove segment 2374 forms an opening position 2371.

[0120] The second groove segment 2373 and the third groove segment 2374 both extend along a straight trajectory, meaning they are both linear structures. The first groove segment 2372 and the fourth groove segment 2375 can extend along either a straight trajectory or an arc trajectory. The first groove segment 2372 extends from the second groove segment 2373 towards the fourth groove segment 2375, and the fourth groove segment 2375 extends from the third groove segment 2374 towards the first groove segment 2372. Understandably, the straight-line distance between the end of the first groove segment 2372 furthest from the second groove segment 2373 and the end of the fourth groove segment 2375 furthest from the third groove segment 2374 is less than the straight-line distance between the end of the second groove segment 2373 furthest from the third groove segment 2374 and the end of the third groove segment 2374 furthest from the second groove segment 2373, making it easier for the pressure relief section 235 to open outwards.

[0121] The second slot segment 2373 and the third slot segment 2374 can be set at a right angle or at an acute angle.

[0122] In this embodiment, the position where the second groove segment 2373 and the third groove segment 2374 are connected forms a sharp corner, which is the weakest point and forms the opening position 2371 that is opened first. This ensures that when the pressure or temperature inside the battery cell 20 reaches a threshold, the end cover 23 cracks along the pressure relief groove 237 from the opening position 2371 to both ends of the pressure relief groove 237, thereby causing the pressure relief part 235 to flip outward from the opening position 2371 in a direction away from the center position.

[0123] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 6 The first groove segment 2372 and the fourth groove segment 2375 are arc-shaped. Understandably, both the first groove segment 2372 and the fourth groove segment 2375 extend along an arc trajectory.

[0124] For example, the center of the arc containing the first slot segment 2372 and the fourth slot segment 2375 is located at the open position 2371.

[0125] During the depressurization process, since the first groove segment 2372 and the fourth groove segment 2375 are both arc-shaped, the end cap 23 can open more smoothly along the first groove segment 2372 and the second groove segment 2373, which is more conducive to the depressurization part 235 flipping outward and opening.

[0126] In some embodiments, along the thickness direction Z of the end cap 23, the pressure relief groove 237 and the reinforcing part 231 are respectively provided on two opposite surfaces of the end cap 23.

[0127] Understandably, if the reinforcing part 231 is provided on the inner surface 232 of the end cover 23, the pressure relief groove 237 is provided on the outer surface 233 of the end cover 23; if the reinforcing part 231 is provided on the outer surface 233 of the end cover 23, the pressure relief groove 237 is provided on the inner surface 232 of the end cover 23.

[0128] In this embodiment, the pressure relief groove 237 and the reinforcing part 231 are respectively disposed on two opposite surfaces of the end cap 23, so that the forming of the pressure relief groove 237 is not affected by the reinforcing part 231, which facilitates the forming and processing of the pressure relief groove 237.

[0129] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 6 The plurality of reinforcing parts 231 include two reinforcing parts 231 that intersect and are perpendicular to each other.

[0130] The two reinforcing parts 231 form a cross shape, dividing the end cap 23 into four first pressure relief zones 236. For example... Figure 6As shown, taking as an example that a pressure relief part 235 is provided in each first pressure relief zone 236 and the pressure relief part 235 is defined by a pressure relief groove 237, the second groove segment 2373 of the pressure relief groove 237 can extend along the extension direction of a reinforcing part 231, and the third groove segment 2374 of the pressure relief groove 237 can extend along the extension direction of another reinforcing part 231, so that the second groove segment 2373 is perpendicular to the third groove segment 2374.

[0131] In this embodiment, two reinforcing parts 231 are provided on the end cap 23, which can effectively simplify the structure of the end cap 23 and effectively enhance the deformation resistance of the central area of ​​the end cap 23.

[0132] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figure 6 The end cap 23 has a circular structure, and the reinforcing part 231 extends radially along the end cap 23. The reinforcing part 231 of this structure can effectively strengthen the end cap 23, and the structure is simple and easy to mold.

[0133] This application provides a battery 100, including a housing 10 and a battery cell 20 provided in any of the above embodiments, wherein the housing 10 is used to accommodate the battery cell 20.

[0134] This application provides an electrical device, including the battery 100 provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0135] In addition, please refer to Figure 3 and 4 This application provides a cylindrical battery cell 20, which includes a housing 21, an electrode assembly 22, an end cap 23, and a current collector 25. The housing 21 has an opening. The electrode assembly 22 is housed within the housing 21. The end cap 23 connects to the housing 21 and closes the opening. The current collector 25 is disposed on the side of the end cap 23 facing the electrode assembly 22, and connects the electrode assembly 22 and the end cap 23. Two intersecting and perpendicularly arranged reinforcing portions 231 protrude from the inner surface 232 of the end cap 23 facing the electrode assembly 22, intersecting at the center of the end cap 23, and enhancing the rigidity of the end cap 23. A recess 234 is provided on the outer surface 233 of the end cap 23 opposite to the electrode assembly 22, corresponding to the reinforcing portions 231. The reinforcing portions 231 abut against the current collector 25 and are welded to the current collector 25.

[0136] In such a cylindrical battery cell, the two intersecting and perpendicularly arranged reinforcing parts 231 can strengthen the central area of ​​the end cap 23, enhance the deformation resistance of the central area of ​​the end cap 23, and since the reinforcing parts 231 are welded to the current collector 25, the current collector 25 can restrain the end cap 23, prevent the central area of ​​the end cap 23 from bulging outward, and reduce the risk of safety accidents caused by the central area of ​​the end cap 23 bulging outward due to the increased internal pressure of the cylindrical battery cell.

[0137] Please refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery cell 20 according to some embodiments of this application. The embodiments of this application provide a method for manufacturing a battery cell 20, the method comprising:

[0138] S100: A housing 21 is provided, the housing 21 having an opening;

[0139] S200: Provides electrode assembly 22;

[0140] S300: An end cap 23 is provided, which is provided with a plurality of reinforcing parts 231 arranged in a cross pattern. The plurality of reinforcing parts 231 intersect at the center of the end cap 23, and the reinforcing parts 231 are used to enhance the rigidity of the end cap 23.

[0141] S400: The electrode assembly 22 is housed within the housing 21;

[0142] S500: Connect end cap 23 to housing 21 so that end cap 23 closes the opening of housing 21.

[0143] In the above method, the order of steps S100, S200 and S300 is not restricted. For example, step S100 can be executed first, then step S200, and then step S300; or step S300 can be executed first, then step S200, and then step S100.

[0144] It should be noted that the relevant structure of the battery cell 20 manufactured by the manufacturing method provided in the above embodiments can be found in the battery cell 20 provided in the foregoing embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0145] Please refer to Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a schematic block diagram of a battery cell 20 manufacturing apparatus 2000 provided in some embodiments of this application. This application also provides a battery cell 20 manufacturing apparatus 2000, which includes a first providing device 2100, a second providing device 2200, a third providing device 2300, and an assembly device 2400.

[0146] A first providing device 2100 provides a housing 21 having an opening. A second providing device 2200 provides an electrode assembly 22. A third providing device 2300 provides an end cap 23 having a plurality of cross-arranged reinforcing portions 231 intersecting at the center of the end cap 23, the reinforcing portions 231 enhancing the rigidity of the end cap 23. An assembly device 2400 accommodates the electrode assembly 22 within the housing 21 and connects the end cap 23 to the housing 21 to close the opening.

[0147] It should be noted that the relevant structure of the battery cell 20 manufactured by the manufacturing equipment 2000 provided in the above embodiments can be found in the battery cell 20 provided in the foregoing embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0148] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other.

[0149] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit this application. For those skilled in the art, this application can have various modifications and variations. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A battery cell, characterized in that, include: The shell has an opening; Electrode assembly, housed within the housing; An end cap for connecting the housing and closing the opening, the end cap including a pressure relief section configured to open when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell reaches a threshold, so as to release the internal pressure of the battery cell; A current collector is disposed on the side of the end cap facing the electrode assembly along the thickness direction of the end cap. The current collector is used to connect the electrode assembly and the end cap to achieve electrical connection between the end cap and the electrode assembly. The end cap is provided with a plurality of reinforcing parts arranged in a cross pattern, which intersect at the center of the end cap. The reinforcing parts are used to enhance the rigidity of the end cap. The projections of the pressure relief parts and the plurality of reinforcing parts on a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction of the end cap do not overlap. The plurality of reinforcing parts divide the end cap into a plurality of first pressure relief zones, which are circumferentially spaced around the center. At least one pressure relief part is provided in each first pressure relief zone. The current collecting member has a plurality of second pressure relief zones, which are provided corresponding to the first pressure relief zones. The second pressure relief zones are provided with through holes. The surface of the current collecting member facing the reinforcing parts is provided with a plurality of positioning parts, which are used to form a positioning fit with the plurality of reinforcing parts.

2. The battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the thickness direction of the end cap, the end cap has an inner surface facing the electrode assembly, and the reinforcement protrudes from the inner surface.

3. The battery cell according to claim 2, characterized in that, Along the thickness direction of the end cap, the end cap has an outer surface that faces away from the electrode assembly; The end cap is provided with a recess at a position corresponding to the reinforcing part, and the recess is recessed from the outer surface toward the electrode assembly.

4. The battery cell according to claim 2, characterized in that, The battery cell also includes: A current collector is disposed on the side of the end cap facing the electrode assembly along the thickness direction of the end cap. The current collector is used to connect the electrode assembly and the end cap to achieve electrical connection between the end cap and the electrode assembly. The reinforcing part has a contact surface formed on the side opposite to the inner surface, and the contact surface abuts against the flow collecting member.

5. The battery cell according to claim 4, characterized in that, The reinforcing part is welded to the current collecting component.

6. The battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the first pressure relief zones is equipped with a corresponding pressure relief section.

7. The battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end cap is provided with a pressure relief groove, which extends along the edge of the pressure relief portion to define the pressure relief portion.

8. The battery cell according to claim 7, characterized in that, The pressure relief groove has a distance between its two ends in its extending direction.

9. The battery cell according to claim 8, characterized in that, The pressure relief groove has an opening position, and the end cap is configured to split along the pressure relief groove from the opening position to both ends of the pressure relief groove when the pressure or temperature inside the battery cell reaches a threshold, so as to open the pressure relief section. A blank area is formed between the two ends of the pressure relief groove, and the blank area is further away from the center position than the opening position.

10. The battery cell according to claim 9, characterized in that, The pressure relief groove includes a first groove segment, a second groove segment, a third groove segment, and a fourth groove segment connected in sequence. The blank area is formed between the end of the first groove segment away from the second groove segment and the end of the fourth groove segment away from the third groove segment. The second groove segment and the third groove segment both extend along a straight trajectory. The second groove segment and the third groove segment are set at a non-zero included angle. The connection position of the second groove segment and the third groove segment forms the opening position.

11. The battery cell according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first groove segment and the fourth groove segment are arc-shaped.

12. The battery cell according to claim 7, characterized in that, Along the thickness direction of the end cap, the pressure relief groove and the reinforcing portion are respectively disposed on two opposite surfaces of the end cap.

13. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The plurality of reinforcing parts includes two reinforcing parts that intersect and are perpendicular to each other.

14. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The end cap has a circular structure, and the reinforcing part extends radially along the end cap.

15. A battery, characterized in that, include: The battery cell according to any one of claims 1-14; The housing is used to house the individual battery cells.

16. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, Includes the battery as described in claim 15.

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