Battery and electric device
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202380045338.6
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-03-02
- Publication Date
- 2025-01-14
AI Technical Summary
In existing battery technology, battery cells are prone to thermal runaway, resulting in shortened service life and potential safety hazards.
An insulating heat exchange fluid is placed in the battery case, and the battery cells are partially immersed in it. The insulating heat exchange fluid is used to exchange heat with the heat exchange mechanism to improve the heat exchange effect and reduce the risk of thermal runaway.
Through the heat exchange of the liquid medium, the heat exchange effect of the battery cells is significantly improved, the service life is extended, and the risk of thermal runaway is reduced, while the battery structural strength and capacity are optimized.
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Figure CN119318060A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Batteries and electrical devices Technical Field
[0001] The present application relates to the field of batteries, and in particular to a battery and an electrical device. Background Art
[0002] Battery cells are widely used in electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptop computers, electric vehicles, electric cars, electric airplanes, electric boats, electric toy cars, electric toy boats, electric toy airplanes and power tools, etc.
[0003] In the development of battery technology, how to reduce the risk of thermal runaway of battery cells is an important research direction in battery technology.
[0004] Summary of the Invention
[0005] The present application provides a battery and an electrical device, which can reduce the risk of thermal runaway of battery cells.
[0006] In a first aspect, the present application provides a battery comprising a housing, a battery cell, a heat exchange mechanism, and an insulating heat exchange fluid. The housing has a housing space; the battery cell is disposed in the housing space; the insulating heat exchange fluid is contained in the housing space, with at least a portion of the battery cell immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid; and the heat exchange mechanism is configured to exchange heat with the insulating heat exchange fluid.
[0007] In the above technical solution, an insulating heat exchange liquid is arranged in the shell, and the insulating heat exchange liquid exchanges heat with the heat exchange mechanism. At least part of the battery cell is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid. In this way, the battery cell can be heat exchanged by the insulating heat exchange liquid. Compared with the heat exchange between solid and solid such as the heat exchange mechanism and the battery cell, the heat exchange effect between the insulating heat exchange liquid and the battery cell and between the insulating heat exchange liquid and the heat exchange mechanism is better. That is, with the insulating heat exchange liquid as the medium, the heat exchange mechanism can have a better heat exchange effect on the battery cell, thereby reducing the risk of thermal runaway of the battery cell and improving the service life of the battery cell.
[0008] In some embodiments, the shell includes a first side plate and a second side plate arranged opposite to each other along a first direction, the first side plate is located below the second side plate, and an electrode terminal is provided at one end of the battery cell facing the first side plate, and at least a portion of the electrode terminal is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid.
[0009] In the above technical solution, since the side of the battery cell where the electrode terminal is provided generates more heat, the battery cell is installed in an inverted form in the shell, and at least part of the electrode terminal is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid, so that the end of the battery cell that generates more heat can be heated by the insulating heat exchange fluid, thereby improving the heat exchange effect of the battery cell.
[0010] In some embodiments, a groove is formed on the surface of the first side plate facing the electrode terminal, and the insulating heat exchange fluid is at least provided in the groove.
[0011] In the above technical solution, a groove is formed on the first side plate, and the insulating heat exchange fluid is at least arranged in the groove, which can increase the volume of the accommodating space formed by the shell, thereby improving the capacity of the battery.
[0012] In some embodiments, the liquid level of the insulating heat exchange fluid does not exceed the opening of the groove.
[0013] In the above technical solution, the insulating heat exchange fluid level is set to no higher than the opening of the groove, limiting the volume of the insulating heat exchange fluid. This smaller amount of insulating heat exchange fluid not only reduces the risk of leakage from repeated battery vibrations but also maintains a lower temperature after heat exchange with the heat exchange mechanism, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cells. Furthermore, this smaller amount of insulating heat exchange fluid does not significantly increase the weight of the battery.
[0014] In some embodiments, the shell includes a first side plate and a second side plate arranged opposite to each other along a first direction, the first side plate is located below the second side plate, the battery also includes a heat exchange element, part of the heat exchange element is immersed in an insulating heat exchange liquid, and the battery includes a plurality of battery cells arranged in sequence along the second direction; the heat exchange element is arranged on the surface of at least one battery cell along the third direction, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction intersect with each other.
[0015] In the above technical solution, a heat exchange element is provided, partially immersed in an insulating heat exchange fluid. This allows the heat transfer function of the heat exchange element to allow the portion of the battery cell that is in contact with the element and not immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid to exchange heat with the element, significantly improving the heat exchange efficiency of this portion of the battery cell, thereby enhancing the heat exchange efficiency of the entire battery cell. Furthermore, the provision of the heat exchange element can enhance the structural strength of the battery cell and improve the overall rigidity of the battery.
[0016] In some embodiments, an electrode terminal is provided at one end of the battery cell facing the first side plate, and at least a portion of the electrode terminal is immersed in an insulating heat exchange liquid. The battery also includes a thermally conductive adhesive, which connects the battery cell and the second side plate, and the heat exchange element is connected to the thermally conductive adhesive.
[0017] In the above technical solution, under the premise that the volume of the insulating heat exchange liquid is small, for example, when only the end of the battery cell with the electrode terminal, i.e., the lower end, is immersed, the heat exchange component is connected to the thermal conductive adhesive. Then, the battery cell can be faced to the end of the second side plate, i.e., the upper end, for heat exchange through the thermal conductive adhesive. In this way, the temperature difference between the upper and lower ends of the battery cell can be reduced, the heat exchange effect of the battery cell can be improved, and the risk of thermal runaway of the battery cell can be reduced.
[0018] In some embodiments, the heat exchange element has a receiving cavity filled with a refrigerant, and a portion of the receiving cavity is located in an insulating heat exchange liquid.
[0019] In the above technical solution, refrigerant is filled in the accommodating cavity, and part of the accommodating cavity is extended into the insulating heat exchange liquid. In this way, heat exchange between the part of the battery cell that is not immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid and the insulating heat exchange liquid is achieved through the refrigerant, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency and heat exchange effect of the battery cell.
[0020] In some embodiments, heat exchange elements are connected to two opposite sides of at least one battery cell along the third direction.
[0021] In the above technical solution, the heat exchange element is connected to two opposite sides of at least one battery cell along the third direction, so that the heat exchange element can exchange heat on both sides of multiple battery cells, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency.
[0022] In some embodiments, the heat exchange mechanism is connected to the first side plate.
[0023] In the above technical solution, the heat exchange mechanism is connected to the first side plate, that is, the heat exchange mechanism is arranged at the first side plate, and the insulating heat exchange liquid is arranged in the groove, so it is convenient for the heat exchange mechanism and the insulating heat exchange liquid to exchange heat.
[0024] In some embodiments, the heat exchange mechanism is disposed on the outer side of the first side plate and is enclosed with the first side plate to form a heat exchange channel for the heat exchange medium to flow.
[0025] In the above technical solution, the heat exchange mechanism and the first side plate are used together to form a heat exchange flow channel, which can save the material usage of the heat exchange mechanism and thus reduce the weight of the battery.
[0026] In some embodiments, a heat dissipation protrusion is provided on a surface of the second side plate facing away from the first side plate.
[0027] In the above technical solution, a heat dissipation convex portion is provided on the surface of the second side plate away from the first side plate, thereby dissipating heat from the end of the battery cell close to the second side plate, thereby improving the heat dissipation effect of the battery cell.
[0028] In some embodiments, the battery further includes an isolation plate assembly, which includes an insulating isolation plate and a busbar mounted on the insulating isolation plate. The insulating isolation plate is disposed between the battery cell and the first side plate. An electrode terminal is disposed at one end of the battery cell facing the first side plate. At least a portion of the electrode terminal is immersed in an insulating heat exchange fluid. The busbar is electrically connected to the electrode terminal. At least a portion of the busbar is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid.
[0029] In the above technical solution, since the busbar also generates heat, at least a portion of the busbar is immersed in an insulating heat exchange liquid to exchange heat on the busbar, thereby improving the heat exchange effect of the battery.
[0030] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the insulating spacer plate is immersed in an insulating heat exchange fluid.
[0031] In the above technical solution, the insulating isolation plate is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid to facilitate the connection between the battery cell and the first side plate.
[0032] In some embodiments, the battery further includes a limiting post, the insulating isolation plate is connected to the first side plate or the heat exchange mechanism via the limiting post, and at least a portion of the limiting post is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid.
[0033] In the above technical solution, a limiting column is provided to insulate the first side plate and the insulating isolation plate from each other, or to insulate the heat exchange mechanism and the insulating isolation plate from each other, thereby improving the safety of battery use.
[0034] In a second aspect, the present application also provides an electrical device, comprising a battery according to any of the above embodiments, and the battery is used to provide electrical energy. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] The features, advantages and technical effects of exemplary embodiments of the present application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0036] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present application;
[0037] FIG2 is a schematic structural diagram of a battery according to an embodiment of the present application;
[0038] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of a battery according to an embodiment of the present application;
[0039] FIG4 is a side view of a heat exchange element in a battery according to an embodiment of the present application;
[0040] FIG5 is another schematic cross-sectional view of a battery according to an embodiment of the present application;
[0041] FIG6 is a schematic structural diagram of a battery cell and a busbar in a battery according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0042] In the drawings, the drawings are not drawn to scale.
[0043] The figure numbers of the specific implementation method are as follows: 1. Vehicle; 2. Battery; 3. Controller; 4. Motor; 5. Battery cell; 51. Electrode terminal; 6. Shell; 61. Accommodation space; 62. First side panel; 621. Groove; 63. Second side panel; 631. Heat dissipation protrusion; 8. Heat exchange mechanism; 81. Heat exchange channel; 9. Insulating heat exchange liquid; 10. Heat exchange component; 101. Cavity; 11. Thermal conductive adhesive; 12. Isolation plate assembly; 121. Insulating isolation plate; 122. Bus; 13. Limiting column; X, first direction; Y, second direction; Z, third direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0044] To make the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0045] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meanings as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application belongs. The terms used in the specification of this application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit this application. The terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof in the specification and claims of this application and the above-mentioned drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. The terms "first" and "second" in the specification and claims of this application or the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order or a primary-secondary relationship.
[0046] References to "embodiments" in this application mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it constitute an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive of other embodiments.
[0047] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "connected," and "attached" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they may refer to direct connections, indirect connections through an intermediate medium, or internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in this application based on specific circumstances.
[0048] The term "and / or" in this application simply describes an association between related objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the related objects are in an "or" relationship.
[0049] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals represent the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components in different embodiments are omitted. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the various components in the embodiments of this application, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device shown in the drawings are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.
[0050] The term "plurality" used in this application refers to two or more (including two).
[0051] In this application, battery cells 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 do not limit this. Battery cells may be cylindrical, flat, rectangular, or other shapes, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit this. Battery cells are generally divided into three types based on the packaging method: cylindrical battery cells, prismatic battery cells, and soft-pack battery cells, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0052] The battery referred to in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module that includes one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery referred to in this application may include a battery module or a battery pack. A battery generally includes a housing that encloses one or more battery cells. The housing prevents liquids or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells.
[0053] A battery cell includes an electrode assembly and an electrolyte. The electrode assembly consists of a positive electrode sheet, a negative electrode sheet, and a separator. A battery cell primarily operates by the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrode sheets. The positive electrode sheet includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer. The positive active material layer is coated on the surface of the positive electrode collector. The uncoated positive electrode collector protrudes from the coated positive electrode collector, and the uncoated positive electrode collector serves as the positive electrode tab. For lithium-ion batteries, for example, the positive electrode current collector can be made of aluminum, and the positive electrode active material can be lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, or lithium manganese oxide. The negative electrode sheet includes a negative current collector and a negative active material layer. The negative active material layer is coated on the surface of the negative electrode collector. The uncoated negative electrode collector protrudes from the coated negative electrode collector, and the uncoated negative electrode collector serves 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. To ensure that large currents can pass without melting, the positive electrode tabs are multiple and stacked together, and the negative electrode tabs are multiple and stacked together. The separator can be made of polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE). In addition, the electrode assembly can be a wound structure or a laminated structure, but the embodiments of the present application are not limited to this.
[0054] Batteries typically have a heat exchange mechanism to exchange heat between the battery cells, reducing the risk of thermal runaway and increasing their service life. These mechanisms are typically located above or below the cells to exchange heat between them.
[0055] The inventors discovered that the heat exchange mechanism exchanges heat for the battery cells by means of solid-to-solid heat exchange, and therefore the heat exchange effect is limited.
[0056] In view of this, the present application provides a technical solution, which arranges an insulating heat exchange liquid in the shell, and the insulating heat exchange liquid exchanges heat with the heat exchange mechanism, and at least part of the battery cell is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid. In this way, the battery cell can be heat exchanged by the insulating heat exchange liquid. Compared with the heat exchange between solids, the heat exchange effect between liquids and solids is better, that is, the insulating heat exchange liquid can have a better heat exchange effect on the battery cell, thereby reducing the risk of thermal runaway of the battery cell and increasing the service life of the battery cell.
[0057] The battery cells described in the embodiments of the present application are suitable for use in batteries and electrical devices using the battery cells.
[0058] Electrical devices may include vehicles, mobile phones, portable devices, laptop computers, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and electric tools, etc. Vehicles may include fuel vehicles, gas vehicles, or new energy vehicles. New energy vehicles may include pure electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, or extended-range vehicles, etc. Spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc. Electric toys include fixed or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Electric tools include metal cutting electric tools, grinding electric tools, assembly electric tools, and railway electric tools, such as electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, impact drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers, etc. The embodiments of the present application do not impose any special restrictions on the above-mentioned electrical devices.
[0059] For the convenience of description, the following embodiments are described by taking a vehicle as an example of an electrical device.
[0060] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0061] As shown in FIG1 , a battery 2 is provided inside the vehicle 1. The battery 2 may be provided at the bottom, head, or tail of the vehicle 1. The battery 2 may be used to power the vehicle 1. For example, the battery 2 may serve as an operating power source for the vehicle 1.
[0062] The vehicle 1 may further include a controller 3 and a motor 4 . The controller 3 is used to control the battery 2 to supply power to the motor 4 , for example, to meet the power requirements of the vehicle 1 during startup, navigation, and driving.
[0063] In some embodiments of the present application, the battery 2 can not only serve as the operating power source of the vehicle 1, but also serve as the driving power source of the vehicle 1, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1.
[0064] In battery 2, there can be one or more battery cells. If there are multiple battery cells, they can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid configuration. A hybrid configuration refers to a combination of series and parallel connections. Multiple battery cells can be directly connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid configuration, and then the entire structure of the multiple battery cells is secured to a support component. Alternatively, multiple battery cells can be first connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid configuration to form a battery module, and then the multiple battery modules can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid configuration to form an entire structure, which is then secured to a support component.
[0065] FIG2 is a schematic structural diagram of a battery according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 2 , the battery 2 includes a housing 6 and a battery cell 5 . The battery cell 5 is accommodated in the housing 6 .
[0067] The housing 6 is used to accommodate the battery cells 5 , and the housing 6 can have various structures.
[0068] In the battery 2, there can be one or more battery cells 5. If there are multiple battery cells 5, the multiple battery cells 5 can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid connection. Hybrid connection refers to the multiple battery cells 5 being connected both in series and in parallel. The multiple battery cells 5 can be directly connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid connection, and then the entire battery cell 5 can be housed in the housing 6. Alternatively, multiple battery cells 5 can be first connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid connection to form a battery module, and then the multiple battery modules can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid connection to form a single unit and housed in the housing 6.
[0069] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of a battery according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0070] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the battery 2 of the present embodiment includes a housing 6, battery cells 5, a heat exchange mechanism 8, and an insulating heat exchange fluid 9. The housing 6 defines a receiving space 61, within which the battery cells 5 are located. The insulating heat exchange fluid 9 is contained within the receiving space 61, with at least a portion of the battery cells 5 immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9. The heat exchange mechanism 8 is used to exchange heat with the insulating heat exchange fluid 9.
[0071] The heat exchange mechanism 8 of the embodiment of the present application can be directly immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 to achieve heat exchange, or it can be not in contact with the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 but indirectly exchange heat with the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 through the shell 6.
[0072] The heat exchange mechanism 8 of the embodiment of the present application can increase the temperature of the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 or reduce the temperature of the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 .
[0073] Optionally, the heat exchange mechanism 8 has a heat exchange channel 81 , and the heat exchange channel 81 is filled with a heat exchange medium, which is used to exchange heat with the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 .
[0074] There is no limitation on the location of the heat exchange mechanism 8 in the embodiment of the present application. The heat exchange mechanism 8 may be located at one end of the battery cell 5 or at the upper and lower ends of the battery cell 5 .
[0075] This embodiment does not limit the volume of the insulating heat-exchange fluid 9 filled in the accommodation space 61. For example, the insulating heat-exchange fluid 9 can be filled in a portion of the accommodation space 61 or in the entire accommodation space 61.
[0076] This embodiment does not limit the material of the insulating heat exchange fluid 9, which is an insulating liquid. For example, the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 can be a fluorinated liquid or a silicone oil.
[0077] The accommodating space 61 in the embodiment of the present application is a closed space, thereby reducing the risk of the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 overflowing.
[0078] In the embodiment of the present application, an insulating heat exchange liquid 9 is set in the shell 6, and the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 exchanges heat with the heat exchange mechanism 8. At least part of the battery cell 5 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid 9. In this way, the battery cell 5 can be heat exchanged by the insulating heat exchange liquid 9. Compared with the heat exchange between solid and solid such as the heat exchange mechanism 8 and the battery cell 5, the heat exchange effect between the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 and the battery cell 5 and between the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 and the heat exchange mechanism 8 is better. That is, with the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 as the medium, the heat exchange mechanism 8 can have a better heat exchange effect on the battery cell 5, thereby reducing the risk of thermal runaway of the battery cell 5 and improving the service life of the battery cell 5.
[0079] In some embodiments, the shell 6 includes a first side plate 62 and a second side plate 63 arranged opposite to each other along a first direction X, the first side plate 62 is located below the second side plate 63, and the end of the battery cell 5 facing the first side plate 62 is provided with an electrode terminal 51, and at least a portion of the electrode terminal 51 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9.
[0080] Optionally, the electrode terminals 51 are completely immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 .
[0081] An electrode terminal 51 is provided at one end of the battery cell 5 facing the first side plate 62 , that is, the battery cell 5 is in an inverted form with the electrode terminal 51 at the bottom.
[0082] Since the side of the battery cell 5 with the electrode terminal 51 generates more heat, the battery cell 5 is installed in an inverted form in the shell 6, and at least a portion of the electrode terminal 51 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid 9. This allows the end of the battery cell 5 that generates more heat to be heated by the insulating heat exchange liquid 9, thereby improving the heat exchange effect of the battery cell 5. In addition, the bottom of the battery cell 5 opposite to the electrode terminal 51 is generally connected to the shell 6 through a glue-like substance. If this side is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid 9, the heat exchange mechanism 8 needs to exchange heat with the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 through the glue-like substance, and the heat exchange effect is poor. The inverted battery cell 5 in the embodiment of the present application allows the heat exchange mechanism 8 to exchange heat with the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 without the need for a glue-like substance, so that the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 has a better heat exchange effect on the battery cell 5.
[0083] In some embodiments, a groove 621 is formed on the surface of the first side plate 62 facing the electrode terminal 51 , and the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 is at least disposed in the groove 621 .
[0084] In this embodiment, the opening of the groove 621 formed on the first side plate 62 faces the second side plate 63 .
[0085] This embodiment does not limit the shape of the groove 621. For example, the groove 621 is a square groove or a trapezoidal groove. Among them, the trapezoidal groove refers to a groove that is wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, or narrow at the top and wide at the bottom. The square groove refers to a groove with the same width at the top and bottom.
[0086] The insulating heat exchange fluid 9 in the embodiment of the present application may also be partially located outside the groove 621 .
[0087] A groove 621 is formed on the first side plate 62 , and the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 is at least placed in the groove 621 , which can increase the volume of the accommodating space 61 formed by the shell 6 , thereby improving the capacity of the battery 2 .
[0088] In some embodiments, the liquid level of the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 does not exceed the opening of the groove 621 .
[0089] The level of the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 is set to not exceed the opening of the groove 621, thereby limiting the volume of the insulating heat exchange fluid 9. Less insulating heat exchange fluid 9 not only reduces the risk of leakage from the battery 2 after repeated vibration, but also maintains a lower temperature after heat exchange with the heat exchange mechanism 8, thereby improving the heat exchange effect of the battery cell 5. Furthermore, less insulating heat exchange fluid 9 does not excessively increase the weight of the battery 2.
[0090] In some embodiments, the height of the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 in the accommodating space 61 is 12 mm-15 mm.
[0091] In some embodiments, the shell 6 includes a first side plate 62 and a second side plate 63 arranged opposite to each other along a first direction X, the first side plate 62 is located below the second side plate 63, the battery 2 also includes a heat exchange element 10, part of the heat exchange element 10 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9, and the battery 2 includes a plurality of battery cells 5 arranged in sequence along a second direction Y; the heat exchange element 10 is arranged on the surface of at least one battery cell 5 along a third direction Z, and the first direction X, the second direction Y and the third direction Z intersect with each other.
[0092] The heat exchange element 10 is disposed on the surface of the battery cell 5 along the third direction Z, which means that the heat exchange element 10 is disposed on at least one of the two opposite surfaces of the battery cell 5 along the third direction Z.
[0093] The heat exchange element 10 of the embodiment of the present application is disposed on the battery cell 5 , which does not mean that the heat exchange element 10 is in direct contact with the battery cell 5 . The heat exchange element 10 may also be in contact with the battery cell 5 through other components.
[0094] The embodiment of the present application does not limit the shape of the heat exchange element 10. For example, the heat exchange element 10 is in a plate shape, a block shape, or other irregular shapes.
[0095] The heat exchange element 10 in the embodiment of the present application is made of a thermally conductive material, such as a metal material, and more preferably, aluminum.
[0096] Optionally, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z are perpendicular to each other.
[0097] The embodiment of the present application does not limit the connection method between the heat exchange element 10 and the battery cell 5. For example, the heat exchange element 10 is bonded to one side of the battery cell 5 along the third direction Z.
[0098] Optionally, the heat exchange element 10 is connected to at least one side surface of a plurality of battery cells 5 arranged in sequence along the second direction Y along the third direction Z.
[0099] The heat exchange element 10 is provided, and partially immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9. This allows the portion of the battery cell 5 that is in contact with the heat exchange element 10 and not immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 to exchange heat with the heat exchange element 10 due to its heat conductivity. This significantly improves the heat exchange efficiency of this portion of the battery cell 5, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the entire battery cell 5. Furthermore, the provision of the heat exchange element 10 can enhance the structural strength of the battery cell 5 and improve the overall rigidity of the battery 2.
[0100] In some embodiments, an electrode terminal 51 is provided at one end of the battery cell 5 facing the first side plate 62, and at least a portion of the electrode terminal 51 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid 9. The battery 2 also includes a thermally conductive adhesive 11, which connects the battery cell 5 and the second side plate 63, and the heat exchange component 10 is connected to the thermally conductive adhesive 11.
[0101] The battery cell 5 of the embodiment of the present application is installed in an inverted manner between the first side plate 62 and the second side plate 63 , and the battery cell 5 is fixed to the housing 6 by a thermally conductive adhesive 11 .
[0102] Optionally, one end of the heat exchange element 10 extends into the heat conductive adhesive 11 .
[0103] Under the premise that the volume of the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 is small, for example, when only the end of the battery cell 5 with the electrode terminal 51, i.e., the lower end, is immersed, the heat exchange component 10 is connected to the thermal conductive adhesive 11. Then, the thermal conductive adhesive 11 can be used to face the end of the battery cell 5 facing the second side plate 63, i.e., the upper end, for heat exchange. In this way, the temperature difference between the upper and lower ends of the battery cell 5 can be reduced, the heat exchange effect of the battery cell 5 can be improved, and the risk of thermal runaway of the battery cell 5 can be reduced.
[0104] FIG4 is a side view of a heat exchange element in a battery according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0105] In some embodiments, the heat exchange element 10 has a receiving cavity 101 , which is filled with a refrigerant, and a portion of the receiving cavity 101 is located in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 .
[0106] The refrigerant of the embodiment of the present application can be converted between liquid and gaseous states. Exemplary refrigerants include ammonia, freon, and hydrocarbons.
[0107] Optionally, a portion of the accommodating cavity 101 in the embodiment of the present application is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 .
[0108] This embodiment does not limit the shape of the accommodating cavity 101. For example, the shape of the accommodating cavity 101 facing the battery cell 5 is square or circular.
[0109] Optionally, the heat exchange element 10 is connected to two opposite ends of the battery cell 5 in the first direction X.
[0110] During use, the temperature of the refrigerant in the accommodating cavity 101 immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 is low and in liquid form. The temperature of the refrigerant above the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 is higher. The temperature of the refrigerant at the end of the battery cell 5 facing the second side plate 63 is the highest. The refrigerant is converted into a gaseous state by heat. The gaseous refrigerant will exchange heat with the outer shell of the accommodating cavity 101 formed by the heat exchange component 10, thereby liquefying. This cycle repeats to achieve heat exchange at the end of the battery cell 5 facing the second side plate 63.
[0111] Fill the accommodating cavity 101 with refrigerant, and partially extend the accommodating cavity 101 into the insulating heat exchange liquid 9. In this way, heat exchange between the portion of the battery cell 5 not immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 and the insulating heat exchange liquid 9 is achieved through the refrigerant, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency and heat exchange effect of the battery cell 5.
[0112] In some embodiments, heat exchange elements 10 are connected to two opposite surfaces of at least one battery cell 5 along the third direction Z.
[0113] The heat exchange element 10 is connected to two opposite sides of at least one battery cell 5 along the third direction Z. The heat exchange element 10 can perform heat exchange on both sides of the battery cell 5, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency.
[0114] Optionally, the thickness H of the heat exchange element 10 is 0.6 mm-2 mm.
[0115] FIG5 is another schematic cross-sectional view of a battery according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0116] As shown in FIG. 5 , in some embodiments, the heat exchange mechanism 8 is connected to the first side plate 62 .
[0117] The embodiment of the present application does not limit the connection method between the heat exchange mechanism 8 and the first side plate 62. For example, the heat exchange mechanism 8 and the first side plate 62 can be connected by bonding or threading.
[0118] Optionally, the heat exchange mechanism 8 is located between the first side plate 62 and the battery cell 5 and is connected to the first side plate 62 , and the heat exchange mechanism 8 has an independent heat exchange flow channel.
[0119] The heat exchange mechanism 8 is connected to the first side plate 62 , that is, the heat exchange mechanism 8 is arranged at the first side plate 62 , and the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 is arranged at the groove 621 , so that the heat exchange mechanism 8 and the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 can exchange heat conveniently.
[0120] In some embodiments, the heat exchange mechanism 8 is disposed on the outer side of the first side plate 62 and is enclosed with the first side plate 62 to form a heat exchange channel 81 for the heat exchange medium to flow.
[0121] In the embodiment of the present application, the heat exchange mechanism 8 is disposed on the side of the first side plate 62 away from the second side plate 63. The first side plate 62 and the heat exchange mechanism 8 are enclosed to form a heat exchange channel 81. Optionally, the heat exchange mechanism 8 and the first side plate 62 are integrally formed.
[0122] The heat exchange mechanism 8 and the first side plate 62 together form the heat exchange channel 81 , which can save material usage of the heat exchange mechanism 8 and thus reduce the weight of the battery 2 .
[0123] In some embodiments, a heat dissipation protrusion 631 is provided on a surface of the second side plate 63 facing away from the first side plate 62 .
[0124] The embodiment of the present application does not limit the shape of the heat dissipation protrusion 631. For example, the heat dissipation protrusion 631 can be a plurality of heat dissipation ribs or a plurality of block-shaped protrusions.
[0125] A heat dissipation protrusion 631 is provided on the surface of the second side plate 63 facing away from the first side plate 62 , thereby dissipating heat from the end of the battery cell 5 close to the second side plate 63 , thereby improving the heat dissipation effect of the battery cell 5 .
[0126] FIG6 is a schematic structural diagram of a battery cell and a busbar in a battery according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0127] Please refer to Figures 3 and 6. In some embodiments, the battery 2 also includes an isolation plate assembly 12. The isolation plate assembly 12 includes an insulating isolation plate 121 and a bus 122 installed on the insulating isolation plate 121. The insulating isolation plate 121 is arranged between the battery cell 5 and the first side plate 62. The end of the battery cell 5 facing the first side plate 62 is provided with an electrode terminal 51. At least a portion of the electrode terminal 51 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9. The bus 122 is electrically connected to the electrode terminal 51; at least a portion of the bus 122 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9.
[0128] Optionally, the busbar 122 is used to connect the electrode terminals 51 of adjacent battery cells 5 .
[0129] Optionally, the busbar 122 is completely immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 .
[0130] Since the busbar 122 also generates heat, at least a portion of the busbar 122 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 to exchange heat for the busbar 122 and improve the heat exchange effect of the battery 2 .
[0131] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the insulating isolation plate 121 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 .
[0132] Optionally, the insulating isolation plate 121 is completely immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 .
[0133] The insulating isolation plate 121 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 to facilitate the connection between the battery cell 5 and the first side plate 62 .
[0134] In some embodiments, the battery 2 further includes a limiting column 13 , and the insulating isolation plate 121 is connected to the first side plate 62 or the heat exchange mechanism 8 through the limiting column 13 , and at least a portion of the limiting column 13 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 .
[0135] The present embodiment does not limit the connection method between the limiting post 13 and the first side plate 62 or the insulating isolation plate 121. For example, the limiting post 13 and the insulating isolation plate 121 can be connected by bonding or threading; the limiting post 13 and the first side plate 62 can be connected by bonding or integral molding. The limiting post 13 and the heat exchange mechanism 8 can also be connected by bonding or threading.
[0136] Optionally, there are multiple limiting posts 13. This embodiment of the present application does not limit whether the multiple limiting posts 13 have the same size and shape. The shapes of the multiple limiting posts 13 can be the same or different, or some of the limiting posts 13 can have the same shape and some of the limiting posts 13 can have different shapes. The same applies to the sizes of the multiple limiting posts 13, which will not be further described in this application.
[0137] The limiting post 13 of the embodiment of the present application is disposed between the insulating isolation plate 121 and the first side plate 62, and creates a gap between the insulating isolation plate 121 and the first side plate 62 or between the insulating isolation plate 121 and the heat exchange mechanism 8, thereby providing insulation. The limiting post 13 is made of an insulating material.
[0138] The limiting column 13 is provided to insulate the first side plate 62 and the insulating isolation plate 121 from each other, or to insulate the heat exchange mechanism 8 and the insulating isolation plate 121 from each other, thereby improving the safety of the battery 2 .
[0139] In some embodiments, the depth of immersion of the heat exchange element 8 in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 is 3 mm to 10 mm.
[0140] In some embodiments, the depth of the busbar 122 immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 is 3 mm to 10 mm.
[0141] In some embodiments, the electrode terminal 51 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9 to a depth of 3 mm to 10 mm.
[0142] The embodiment of the present application further provides an electrical device, comprising the above-mentioned battery 2, which is used to provide electrical energy.
[0143] Referring to Figures 2 to 4, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery 2, including a shell 6, a battery cell 5, a heat exchange mechanism 8 and an insulating heat exchange liquid 9. The shell 6 is provided with a accommodating space 61, and the battery cell 5 is arranged in the accommodating space 61. The insulating heat exchange liquid 9 is accommodated in the accommodating space 61, and at least a portion of the battery cell 5 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid 9. The heat exchange mechanism 8 is used to exchange heat with the insulating heat exchange liquid 9. The shell 6 includes a first side plate 62 and a second side plate 63 arranged opposite to each other along a first direction X, the first side plate 62 is located below the second side plate 63, and the end of the battery cell 5 facing the first side plate 62 is provided with an electrode terminal 51, and at least a portion of the electrode terminal 51 is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid 9.
[0144] A groove 621 is formed on the surface of the first side plate 62 facing the electrode terminal 51 , and the insulating heat-exchanging fluid 9 is at least disposed in the groove 621 . The liquid level of the insulating heat-exchanging fluid 9 does not exceed the opening of the groove 621 .
[0145] Battery 2 also includes a heat exchange element 10, partially immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9. Battery 2 includes multiple battery cells 5 arranged sequentially along a second direction Y. The heat exchange element 10 is disposed on the surface of at least one battery cell 5 along a third direction Z. The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z intersect with each other. Battery 2 also includes thermally conductive adhesive 11, which connects the battery cells 5 and the second side plate 63. The heat exchange element 10 is connected to the thermally conductive adhesive 11. The heat exchange element 10 has a receiving cavity 101 filled with refrigerant and partially located in the insulating heat exchange fluid 9.
[0146] Although the present application has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications may be made thereto and components may be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of the present application. In particular, the various technical features described in the various embodiments may be combined in any manner as long as there are no structural conflicts. The present application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions within the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. A battery comprising: A housing having a receiving space; A battery cell is arranged in the accommodation space; An insulating heat exchange liquid is contained in the containing space, and at least a portion of the battery cell is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid; A heat exchange mechanism is used for exchanging heat with the insulating heat exchange fluid.
2. The battery according to claim 1, wherein The shell includes a first side plate and a second side plate arranged opposite to each other along a first direction, the first side plate is located below the second side plate, and an electrode terminal is provided at one end of the battery cell facing the first side plate, and at least a part of the electrode terminal is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid.
3. The battery according to claim 2, wherein A groove is formed on the surface of the first side plate facing the electrode terminal, and the insulating heat exchange fluid is at least partially disposed in the groove.
4. The battery according to claim 3, wherein The liquid level of the insulating heat exchange liquid does not exceed the opening of the groove.
5. The battery according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The housing includes a first side plate and a second side plate arranged opposite to each other in a first direction, wherein the first side plate is located below the second side plate. The battery further includes a heat exchange element, part of which is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid. The battery comprises a plurality of battery cells arranged in sequence along a second direction; The heat exchange element is disposed on a surface of at least one of the battery cells along a third direction, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction intersect each other.
6. The battery according to claim 5, wherein An electrode terminal is provided at one end of the battery cell facing the first side plate, and at least a portion of the electrode terminal is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid. The battery further comprises a heat-conducting adhesive, the heat-conducting adhesive connects the battery cell and the second side plate, and the heat exchange element is connected to the heat-conducting adhesive.
7. The battery according to claim 5, wherein The heat exchange component has a containing cavity filled with a refrigerant, and a portion of the containing cavity is located in the insulating heat exchange liquid.
8. The battery according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein: The heat exchange element is connected to two opposite surfaces of at least one battery cell along the third direction.
9. The battery according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein: The heat exchange mechanism is connected to the first side plate.
10. The battery according to claim 9, wherein The heat exchange mechanism is arranged on the outer side of the first side plate, and is enclosed with the first side plate to form a heat exchange flow channel for the heat exchange medium to flow.
11. The battery according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein: A heat dissipation convex portion is provided on a surface of the second side plate facing away from the first side plate.
12. The battery according to any one of claims 2 to 11, further comprising an isolation plate assembly, the isolation plate assembly comprising an insulating isolation plate and a busbar mounted on the insulating isolation plate, the insulating isolation plate being arranged between the battery cell and the first side plate, an electrode terminal being arranged at one end of the battery cell facing the first side plate, at least a portion of the electrode terminal being immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid, and the busbar being electrically connected to the electrode terminal; At least a portion of the busbar is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid.
13. The battery according to claim 12, wherein: At least a portion of the insulating isolation plate is immersed in the insulating heat exchange fluid.
14. The battery according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising a limiting column, wherein the insulating isolation plate is connected to the first side plate or the heat exchange mechanism via the limiting column, and at least a portion of the limiting column is immersed in the insulating heat exchange liquid.
15. An electrical device, comprising the battery according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the battery is used to provide electrical energy.