Cooling structure, battery assembly, battery pack and electric equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of batteries, in particular to a cooling structure, a battery assembly, a battery pack and electric equipment. The cooling structure comprises a first protection plate and a second protection plate which are sequentially arranged in the first direction, the second protection plate is provided with a heat conduction groove, and the connecting piece is arranged in the heat conduction groove. The first protection plate comprises a first shell and a first material filled in the first shell, and the connecting piece is used for communicating the first shell with the heat conduction groove so as to facilitate heat exchange between the first material and the second protection plate. By utilizing the characteristic that the first material performs heat absorption and heat exchange in the first shell and the heat conduction groove, the first protection plate with a larger contact area with the battery cell guides heat into the heat conduction groove of the second protection plate and releases the heat to the second protection plate, so that the heat generated by the battery cell can be effectively absorbed and released, and the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery cell is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a cooling structure, a battery assembly, a battery pack, and an electrical device. Background Art

[0002] With the continuous development of electric vehicles, the requirements for their battery packs are also increasing. To ensure the safe use of battery packs, liquid cooling plates are often installed to dissipate heat from the battery cells. Specifically, heat insulation, heat absorption, heat dissipation, and heat-dissipating materials are placed between adjacent battery cells, combined with the heat dissipation structure of the liquid cooling plate to achieve heat dissipation from the battery pack.

[0003] However, the heat dissipation structure in the existing battery pack has poor heat dissipation effect due to its own structural limitations. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present application provides a cooling structure, a battery assembly, a battery pack and an electrical device to improve the heat dissipation efficiency of a battery cell.

[0005] In order to achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solutions:

[0006] In one aspect, the present application provides a cooling structure for use in a battery assembly, wherein a plurality of battery cells in the battery assembly are sequentially arranged along a first direction, comprising:

[0007] A plurality of first protective plates are sequentially arranged along a first direction, with an accommodation space for accommodating the battery cells formed between adjacent first protective plates, and the first protective plates are provided with connecting members;

[0008] A second protective plate, wherein the second protective plate is provided with a heat conducting groove, and a connecting member is provided in the heat conducting groove to connect the first protective plate and the second protective plate;

[0009] The first protective plate includes a first shell and a first material filled in the first shell. The connecting piece is used to connect the first shell and the heat conduction groove to facilitate heat exchange between the first material and the second protective plate.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the first material is a phase change material, which is used to vaporize after absorbing heat from the battery cell, thereby transporting the vaporized first material to the heat conduction groove through the connecting piece; the heat conduction groove is used to exchange heat with the vaporized first material, thereby condensing the first material, and returning the condensed first material to the first shell through the connecting piece.

[0011] In a possible implementation, the connector is provided with a release port and a return port, and both the release port and the return port are located in the heat conduction groove.

[0012] In a possible implementation, the release port is located above the return port in the vertical direction.

[0013] In a possible implementation, the second protective plate includes a second shell and a second material filled in the second shell, and the heat conduction groove is formed on the second shell.

[0014] In a possible implementation, the second shell is provided with a release portion, and the release portion is configured to open when subjected to a preset pressure to release the second material.

[0015] In a possible implementation, the release portion is provided at an opening of the heat conducting groove.

[0016] In a possible implementation, the shape of the release portion includes at least one of a C shape, a U shape, a V shape, and an M shape.

[0017] In a possible implementation manner, the release portion is formed by reducing the thickness of a partial area of ​​the second housing; and / or the release portion is formed by solder paste that seals the second housing.

[0018] In a possible implementation, the first protective plate further includes an inner core, and the inner core is disposed in the first shell.

[0019] In a possible implementation, the cross-sectional shape of the inner core along the first direction includes at least one of a wave shape and a tooth shape.

[0020] In a possible implementation, along the first direction, among the plurality of first protective plates, the number of connecting members on the middle first protective plate is greater than the number of connecting members on the first protective plates on both sides.

[0021] In a possible implementation, a buckle is provided on the connecting member, a sealing member is provided at the opening of the heat conducting groove, and the buckle is snapped onto the sealing member.

[0022] In a possible implementation, the shape of the heat conduction groove includes at least one of a hemispherical shape, a U-shape, and a conical shape.

[0023] In a possible implementation, the connecting piece is a hollow structure.

[0024] On the other hand, the present application provides a battery assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells and the above-mentioned cooling structure.

[0025] On the other hand, the present application provides a battery pack comprising the above-mentioned battery assembly.

[0026] On the other hand, the present application provides an electrical device including the above-mentioned battery assembly or the above-mentioned battery pack.

[0027] The present application provides a cooling structure, battery assembly, battery pack and electrical equipment. By arranging a first protective plate between adjacent battery cells, and connecting the second protective plate and the first protective plate to the heat-conducting groove through a connector, the first shell and the heat-conducting groove are connected through the connector, so that heat can be absorbed by the first material from the side of the battery cell through the first shell, and the first material is transported to the heat-conducting groove through the connector. In the heat-conducting groove, the first material exchanges heat with the second protective plate, thereby effectively transferring heat to the second protective plate, and further dissipating heat through the second protective plate. By utilizing the characteristics of the first material to absorb and exchange heat in the first shell and the heat-conducting groove, the first protective plate with a larger contact area with the battery cell guides heat into the heat-conducting groove of the second protective plate, and releases heat to the second protective plate, which can effectively absorb and release the heat generated by the battery cell, improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery cell, reduce the risk of battery overheating, thereby extending the service life of the battery, and improving the performance and safety of the battery. The combined design of multiple first protective plates and second protective plates enables the cooling structure to be compactly integrated into the battery assembly without taking up additional space while providing an effective cooling function. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present application or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0029] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the cooling structure provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0030] Figure 2 for Figure 1 One of the structural schematic diagrams of the first protective plate of the cooling structure shown;

[0031] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of the second protective plate of the cooling structure shown;

[0032] Figure 4 for Figure 1 One of the structural schematic diagrams of the connection between the first protective plate and the second protective plate;

[0033] Figure 5 for Figure 1 The second structural diagram of the connection between the first protective plate and the second protective plate;

[0034] Figure 6 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the inner core of the first protective plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0035] Figure 7 This is a second structural diagram of the inner core of the first protective plate provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0036] Figure 8 for Figure 1 The second structural schematic diagram of the first protective plate of the cooling structure shown.

[0037] Description of reference numerals:

[0038] 100-cooling structure; 10-first protective plate; 11-connecting piece; 111-release port; 112-return port; 12-first shell; 13-first material; 14-inner core; 15-clip; 20-second protective plate; 21-heat conduction groove; 22-second shell; 221-release part; 23-second material; 24-sealing piece; 101-accommodating space. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] To make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present application clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative work are within the scope of protection of this application. In the absence of conflict, the following embodiments and features in the embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0040] With the continuous development of electric vehicles, the requirements for their battery packs are also increasing. To ensure the safe use of battery packs, liquid cooling plates are often installed to dissipate heat from the battery cells. Specifically, heat insulation, heat absorption, heat dissipation, and heat-dissipating materials are placed between adjacent battery cells, combined with the heat dissipation structure of the liquid cooling plate to achieve heat dissipation from the battery pack.

[0041] However, the heat dissipation structure in the existing battery pack has poor heat dissipation effect due to its own structural limitations.

[0042] In order to overcome the defects in the existing technology, after repeated thinking and verification, the inventors found that heat pipes are a heat dissipation technology with high thermal conductivity. A typical heat pipe consists of a tube shell, a liquid wick and an end cap. When the vapor condenses into liquid, it flows back to the evaporation end by the capillary action of the liquid wick. However, directly using existing heat pipes requires the installation of components such as a heat spreader, which is complex and costly. If a first plate containing phase change material is directly set between adjacent battery cells, a cavity for condensing the phase change material is set on the second plate, and the second plate is connected to the first plate, the heat generated by the battery cells can be fully absorbed, and the heat of the vaporized phase change material can be transferred to the second plate through the cavity, thereby giving full play to the characteristics of the phase change material (from liquid to gas and then back to liquid), realizing cyclic phase change heat transfer, and being able to effectively absorb and release the heat generated by the battery cells, improving the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery cells. In addition, the overall process difficulty is low, and the flow can be refluxed by gravity, which also reduces the production cost.

[0043] In view of this, the present application provides a cooling structure for use in a battery assembly, wherein a plurality of battery cells in the battery assembly are arranged sequentially along a first direction, comprising:

[0044] A plurality of first protective plates are sequentially arranged along a first direction, with an accommodation space for accommodating the battery cells formed between adjacent first protective plates, and the first protective plates are provided with connecting members;

[0045] A second protective plate, wherein the second protective plate is provided with a heat conducting groove, and a connecting member is provided in the heat conducting groove to connect the first protective plate and the second protective plate;

[0046] The first protective plate includes a first shell and a first material filled in the first shell. The connecting piece is used to connect the first shell and the heat conduction groove to facilitate heat exchange between the first material and the second protective plate.

[0047] By placing a first protective plate between adjacent battery cells and connecting the second protective plate to the first protective plate and the heat-conducting groove via a connector, the first housing and the heat-conducting groove are connected via the connector. This allows heat to be absorbed by the first material from the side of the battery cell through the first housing, and then transported to the heat-conducting groove via the connector. In the heat-conducting groove, the first material exchanges heat with the second protective plate, effectively transferring the heat to the second protective plate, while further dissipating the heat through the second protective plate. By utilizing the heat absorption and heat exchange properties of the first material in the first housing and the heat-conducting groove, the first protective plate, which has a larger contact area with the battery cell, transfers heat to the heat-conducting groove of the second protective plate, releasing the heat to the second protective plate. This effectively absorbs and releases the heat generated by the battery cell, improves the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery cell, reduces the risk of battery overheating, thereby extending the battery life and improving battery performance and safety. The combined design of multiple first and second protective plates allows the cooling structure to be compactly integrated into the battery assembly, eliminating the need for additional space while providing effective cooling.

[0048] The contents of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can understand the contents of this application more clearly and in detail.

[0049] The specific structure of the cooling structure and various possible implementation methods are described in detail below.

[0050] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the cooling structure provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 for Figure 1 One of the structural diagrams of the first protective plate of the cooling structure shown. Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of the second protective plate of the cooling structure shown. Figure 4 for Figure 1 One of the structural schematic diagrams of the connection between the first protective plate and the second protective plate. Figure 5 for Figure 1 The second structural diagram of the connection between the first protective plate and the second protective plate is shown. Figure 6 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the inner core of the first protective plate provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 7 This is the second structural schematic diagram of the inner core of the first protective plate provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 8 for Figure 1 The second structural schematic diagram of the first protective plate of the cooling structure shown.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the cooling structure 100 provided in the embodiment of the present application is used in a battery assembly to dissipate heat from the battery cells in the battery assembly. The battery assembly contains at least a plurality of battery cells arranged in sequence along a first direction x.

[0052] Please also see Figure 2 and Figure 3 The cooling structure 100 includes a plurality of first protective plates 10 and a second protective plate 20. Along the first direction x, a plurality of first protective plates 10 are arranged in sequence, and an accommodating space 101 for accommodating battery cells is formed between adjacent first protective plates 10. The first protective plate 10 extends along the second direction y and the third direction z. Along the third direction z, a connector 11 is provided on at least one side of the first protective plate 10. The second protective plate 20 extends along the arrangement direction of the plurality of first protective plates 10, that is, along the first direction x, and the second direction y. Along the third direction z, a heat conducting groove 21 is provided on one side of the second protective plate 20. The connector 11 is provided in the heat conducting groove 21 to connect the first protective plate 10 and the second protective plate 20.

[0053] The first direction x, the second direction y, and the third direction z are each angled with each other. Preferably, the first direction x, the second direction y, and the third direction z are each perpendicular to each other.

[0054] In one possible implementation, the first protective plate 10 is a heat sink between adjacent battery cells, and the second protective plate 20 is perpendicular to the first protective plate 10 to achieve functions such as heat absorption, heat dissipation, and temperature uniformity.

[0055] The first protective plate 10 and the second protective plate 20 are connected vertically, and a heat transfer path is designed so that heat can be effectively transferred from the side of the battery cell through the first protective plate 10 to the second protective plate 20, and further dissipated through the second protective plate 20.

[0056] The first protective plate 10 includes a first shell 12 and a first material 13 filled in the first shell 12 . The connector 11 is used to connect the first shell 12 with the heat conducting groove 21 to facilitate heat exchange between the first material 13 and the second protective plate 20 .

[0057] In a possible implementation, the first material 13 is a phase change material, which is configured to vaporize after absorbing heat from the battery core, thereby transporting the vaporized first material 13 to the heat conduction groove 21 through the connector 11 .

[0058] The heat conducting groove 21 is used to exchange heat with the vaporized first material 13 , thereby condensing the first material 13 and returning the condensed first material 13 to the first shell 12 through the connecting member 11 .

[0059] The first material 13 is a phase-change liquid working fluid that can transform between liquid and gaseous states to transfer heat. The first material 13 can be one or more of silicone oil, silica sol, aluminum sol, zirconium sol, silica-alumina sol, silica-zirconium sol, aluminum-zirconium sol, silica-alumina-zirconium sol, paraffin wax, calcium chloride hexahydrate solution, sodium sulfate decahydrate solution, barium hydroxide octahydrate solution, or magnesium chloride hexahydrate solution.

[0060] By placing a first protective plate 10 between adjacent battery cells and connecting the second protective plate 20 to the first protective plate 10, heat is absorbed from the sides of the battery cells through the first protective plate 10, vaporizing the first material 13 in the first protective plate 10. The vaporized first material 13 is then transferred to the heat conduction groove 21 through the connector 11. In the heat conduction groove 21, the vaporized first material 13 exchanges heat with the second protective plate 20, condensing the first material 13 and effectively transferring heat to the second protective plate 20. The heat is further dissipated through the second protective plate 20. The heat conduction groove 21 also serves as a buffer space to prevent premature leakage of the partially vaporized first material 13 due to thermal runaway. The condensed first material 13 flows back into the first housing 12 through the connector 11. Utilizing the phase change properties of the first material 13 (from liquid to gas and back to liquid), cyclic phase change heat transfer is achieved, effectively absorbing and releasing heat generated by the battery cells, improving the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery cells and reducing the risk of battery overheating. This maintains the battery assembly temperature within a safe and efficient operating range, extending the battery life and improving battery performance and safety. The combined design of multiple first protective plates 10 and second protective plates 20 allows the cooling structure 100 to be compactly integrated into the battery assembly, eliminating the need for additional space while providing effective cooling.

[0061] Furthermore, the first material 13 vaporizes after absorbing heat and condenses and refluxes through the heat-conducting groove 21, achieving material recycling and reducing material consumption and replacement frequency. Furthermore, by utilizing the phase change properties of the first material 13 for heat management, the cooling structure 100 can reduce energy consumption and improve the energy efficiency of the overall system compared to traditional active cooling systems. The modular design of the first and second protective plates 10, 20 also facilitates manufacturing and maintenance, and can be flexibly adjusted and expanded according to the needs of different battery components.

[0062] Moreover, in the event of thermal runaway, the first material 13 absorbs heat and vaporizes, flowing into the heat-conducting groove 21, reducing the first material 13 in the first shell 12 between the battery cells, thereby generating a gap between the first protective plate 10 and the battery cells. The gap can be filled with air, thereby achieving a thermal insulation function.

[0063] In a possible implementation, the first material 13 is encapsulated in the first shell 12. The connector 11 is connected to the first shell 12 at an edge of the first shell 12 on one side thereof.

[0064] In a possible implementation, the first shell 12 may be in any shape, including but not limited to a rectangle or a square.

[0065] Optionally, the first shell 12 can be set to maintain the same or similar size as the adjacent battery cells to save the space occupied by the first protective plate 10 when assembling the module and improve volume utilization.

[0066] In a possible implementation, a soft and lightweight second protective plate 20 may be used in combination with a liquid cooling device to further improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery cell.

[0067] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in a possible implementation, the connector 11 is provided with a release port 111 and a return port 112 , and both the release port 111 and the return port 112 are located in the heat conduction groove 21 .

[0068] In a possible implementation, along the vertical direction, the release port 111 is located above the return port 112 .

[0069] Because the release port 111 is located above the return port 112, the vaporized first material 13 can flow directly into the heat conduction groove 21 through the release port 111. After cooling and condensing into a liquid state in the heat conduction groove 21, it naturally flows back to the return port 112 due to gravity. This design utilizes natural convection and gravity, reducing the need for additional pumps or mechanical devices, thereby improving system reliability and energy efficiency and reducing the complexity of manufacturing and maintenance.

[0070] At the same time, the vertical distribution of the release port 111 and the reflux port 112 helps to reduce the mixing between the vaporized first material 13 and the condensed first material 13. By separating the gas and liquid of the first material 13, heat exchange can be performed more effectively, thereby improving condensation efficiency.

[0071] The upper position of the release port 111 allows the vaporized first material 13 to fully diffuse into the upper region of the heat-conducting groove 21, increasing the contact area with the surface of the heat-conducting groove 21 and improving condensation efficiency. Furthermore, because the return port 112 is located at the bottom, the condensed first material 13 can flow smoothly back into the first housing 12, reducing the liquid's residence time in the heat-conducting groove 21 and lowering the risk of clogging.

[0072] In one possible implementation, the release port 111 is vertically opened at the top of the connector 11. The return port 112 is opened around the connector 11 near the opening of the heat conduction groove 21. This fully utilizes the space in the heat conduction groove 21 to perform the condensation phase change of the first material 13.

[0073] In a possible implementation, the second protection plate 20 includes a second shell 22 and a second material 23 filled in the second shell 22 . The heat conduction groove 21 is formed on the second shell 22 .

[0074] Filling the second housing 22 with the second material 23 effectively disperses and absorbs thermal stress, reducing structural damage caused by thermal expansion and contraction. The second material 23 can be made of a material with high thermal conductivity, effectively transferring heat from the heat-conducting groove 21 to the external environment. This helps to more quickly cool the vaporized first material 13 and improve the cooling efficiency of the entire system. The second housing 22 provides the necessary mechanical strength and stability, protecting the heat-conducting groove 21 and the second material 23 within.

[0075] The second material 23 can be selected and adjusted based on specific needs. For example, a material with phase change properties can be selected to further enhance the cooling effect, or a material with insulating properties can be selected to prevent backflow into the battery assembly and cause a short circuit. Alternatively, the second material 23 can be selected to have flame retardant or high-temperature resistant properties. When an abnormality occurs in the battery assembly, the second material 23 is released to protect the battery cell, further improving system safety and preventing thermal runaway under extreme conditions.

[0076] Optionally, the second material 23 includes, but is not limited to, fire extinguishing materials, insulating materials, heat absorbing materials, and heat conducting materials. When there is no leakage, the second material 23 absorbs, stores, and dissipates heat. When there is leakage, it provides insulation, cooling, and fire extinguishing functions. The second material 23 may be a fluorinated liquid, a highly absorbent resin, or the like.

[0077] In a possible implementation, the second material 23 is encapsulated in the second shell 22 .

[0078] In a possible implementation, the second shell 22 may be in any shape, including but not limited to a rectangle or a square.

[0079] Optionally, the second shell 22 can be set to maintain the same or similar dimensions as the cross-sectional shape of the battery cell and the first protective plate 10 after stacking, so as to save the space occupied by the second protective plate 20 when assembling the module and improve volume utilization.

[0080] In a possible implementation, the material of the groove wall of the heat conducting groove 21 is the same as the material of the second shell 22 .

[0081] In a possible implementation, the second shell 22 is provided with a release portion 221 , and the release portion 221 is configured to open when subjected to a preset pressure to release the second material 23 .

[0082] The second material 23 is a liquid material having cooling and fire extinguishing properties.

[0083] When thermal runaway occurs, the pressure on the release port 221 increases, causing the release port 221 to fail, thereby releasing the second material 23 in the second shell 22. The second material 23 can flow along the first protective plate 10, directly cooling the battery cell and extinguishing the fire, thereby quickly responding to emergency cooling and fire extinguishing needs, helping to quickly reduce the battery cell temperature and prevent further damage caused by the spread of fire, thereby improving the overall safety of the battery assembly.

[0084] Through the design of the release port 221, the system can automatically respond to thermal runaway events without the need for additional sensors or control systems, thereby improving the reliability and response speed of the system.

[0085] In a possible implementation, the release portion 221 is provided at the opening of the heat conducting groove 21 .

[0086] The release portion 221 is disposed at the opening of the heat-conducting groove 21 and can be quickly opened when the pressure or temperature of the gaseous first material 13 in the heat-conducting groove 21 reaches a critical value, thereby releasing the pressure and liquid in the heat-conducting groove 21, thereby quickly responding to thermal runaway and performing cooling and fire extinguishing in a timely manner.

[0087] The design of the release portion 221 located at the opening of the heat conducting groove 21 is relatively simple and does not require a complex internal pipeline or valve system, thereby simplifying the overall structure and helping to reduce manufacturing and maintenance costs.

[0088] When thermal runaway occurs violently, the pressure in the heat conducting groove 21 continues to increase, which may cause the release portion 221 at the opening of the heat conducting groove 21 to fail, releasing the pressure and the second material 23. The second material 23 flows along the first protective plate 10 from which the first material 13 has been released, and flows out along the gap between the first protective plate 10 and the battery cell, uniformly cooling and extinguishing the battery cells adjacent to the first protective plate 10, thereby improving the efficiency of cooling and fire extinguishing.

[0089] In a possible implementation, the release portion 221 is provided at the connection between the second housing 21 and the heat conducting groove 21 .

[0090] Optionally, the opening of the heat conducting groove 21 can be set to a size that is compatible with the connector 11 to ensure that the first protective plate 10 and the second protective plate 20 are stably connected, and the shape can be set to an elliptical shape to facilitate adaptation to various types of connectors 11.

[0091] In a possible implementation, the shape of the release portion 221 includes at least one of a C shape, a U shape, a V shape, and an M shape.

[0092] The cross-sectional shape of the release portion 221 needs to be able to withstand certain pressure and mechanical stresses to reduce the risk of deformation or damage. Shapes such as U-shaped, U-shaped, V-shaped, and M-shaped generally have good structural strength and stability, thus meeting the requirements of the release portion 221. When the pressure in the heat conduction groove 21 reaches a critical point, the high-pressure gas can be preferentially ejected from the surface defects of the release portion 221. Furthermore, these shapes are generally easy to manufacture and install, suitable for large-scale production and application, and reduce manufacturing costs and complexity.

[0093] Different shapes can be selected and adjusted according to specific design needs to adapt to different space constraints and functional requirements, so that they can be better integrated into different battery components.

[0094] In a possible implementation, the release portion 221 may be any surface defect, including but not limited to a reduced package width of the second shell 21 , a reduced package thickness of the second shell 21 , or solder paste having a corresponding thermal runaway temperature.

[0095] In a possible implementation, the release portion 221 is formed by reducing the thickness of a portion of the second housing 21 .

[0096] In another possible implementation, the release portion 221 is formed by solder paste that seals the second housing 21 .

[0097] By reducing the thickness of the second shell 21 or using solder paste, the strength and opening pressure of the release portion 221 can be precisely controlled, so that the system can reliably trigger the release under preset conditions, ensuring a quick response in emergency situations.

[0098] Furthermore, reducing the thickness of the second housing 21 and using solder paste are both relatively simple manufacturing processes that do not require complex mechanical components or additional assembly steps, helping to reduce production costs and simplify the manufacturing process. Depending on specific application requirements, the reduced thickness of the second housing 21 or the properties of the solder paste can be adjusted to accommodate varying pressure and temperature conditions, providing a flexible design solution.

[0099] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in a possible implementation, the first protective plate 10 further includes an inner core 14 , which is disposed in the first shell 12 .

[0100] Optionally, the first material 13 is filled on both sides of the inner core 14 .

[0101] The presence of inner core 14 significantly enhances the structural strength and rigidity of first protective plate 10, providing additional mechanical support to withstand mechanical stress and vibration within the battery assembly. Inner core 14 also acts as a thermal conductor, helping to more evenly distribute and conduct heat. The first material 13, filling both sides of inner core 14, more effectively absorbs and releases heat, improving overall thermal management efficiency.

[0102] Separating the first material 13 on both sides by the inner core 14 prevents the first material 13 from moving and agglomerating, ensuring its uniform distribution throughout the first protective plate 10, thereby improving the cooling effect. The use of the inner core 14 also simplifies the filling process of the first material 13, ensuring that the first material 13 remains in the predetermined position during the manufacturing and assembly process, thereby improving production efficiency and consistency.

[0103] Inner core 14 also provides elasticity, buffering against cell expansion and extrusion. The heat conduction groove 21 and inner core 14 act as a buffer, mitigating rapid liquid-to-gas phase transitions and cell extrusion. This prevents premature leakage of incompletely vaporized first material 13 due to thermal runaway, and prevents thermal runaway cell extrusion from damaging the first protective plate 10 package. In extreme conditions, inner core 14 can also serve as an additional barrier, preventing excessive expansion in the event of thermal runaway and improving overall system safety.

[0104] The material and shape of the inner core 14 can be adjusted according to specific needs and can be any shape to optimize heat conduction performance or provide other functions.

[0105] In a possible implementation, the material of the inner core 14 may be elastic, heat-insulating, or high-thermal-conductivity material.

[0106] In a possible implementation, the cross-sectional shape of the inner core 14 along the first direction x includes at least one of a wave shape and a tooth shape.

[0107] In some embodiments, the inner core 14 is wavy in a cross section along the first direction x and the second direction y.

[0108] The wavy or tooth-shaped design of the inner core 14 significantly increases the surface area of ​​the inner core 14, which helps to improve the heat exchange efficiency and enables the first material 13 to absorb and release heat more effectively, thereby enhancing the overall thermal management performance. At the same time, the wavy or tooth-shaped inner core 14 provides additional mechanical strength and rigidity. The wavy and tooth-shaped structure can better disperse stress and increase the durability and impact resistance of the first protective plate 10. The wavy or tooth-shaped design of the inner core 14 can help to more evenly distribute the first material 13, preventing the first material 13 from moving and gathering in the first protective plate 10, thereby improving the cooling effect and system stability.

[0109] The wavy or toothed shape can form a natural flow channel, promote the flow of the first material 13 during the phase change process, and help to conduct heat from the battery core to the heat conduction groove 21 more quickly, thereby improving cooling efficiency.

[0110] Optionally, the inner core 14 can be set to an "S"-shaped wave shape, while contacting the battery cells on both sides, and the hollow part is used to fill the first material 13. When the first material 13 changes into gas and leaves the first protective plate 10, the gap between the first protective plate 10 and the battery cell provides a cooling and fire extinguishing path.

[0111] Please also see Figure 8 In one possible implementation, along the first direction x, among the multiple first protective plates 10, the number of connectors 11 on the center first protective plate 10 is greater than the number of connectors 11 on the first protective plates 10 on the sides. That is, in the battery assembly, the number of connectors 11 decreasing from the center to the sides corresponds to the number of heat conduction grooves 21 on the corresponding second protective plates 20.

[0112] Through this distribution, more connectors 11 on the middle first protective plate 10 can provide additional heat conduction paths, solving the problem of uneven heat generation in the module caused by uneven heat generation in the battery cells, making the heat more evenly distributed and conducted, and helping to improve the overall thermal management efficiency of the battery assembly.

[0113] At the same time, by increasing the number of connectors 11 on the middle first protective plate 10, the stability and rigidity of the entire stacked structure can be improved, which helps to maintain the integrity of the structure when subjected to external impact or vibration.

[0114] In a possible implementation, the number of connectors 11 can be set to any decreasing number ≥ 2.

[0115] Optionally, the number of connectors 11 can be set to the middle position of the battery assembly, with four connectors 11 set on the first protective plate 10 between adjacent battery cells, and two connectors 11 set on the first protective plates 10 on both sides.

[0116] In a possible implementation, a buckle 15 is provided on the connector 11 , a sealing member 24 is provided at the opening of the heat conducting groove 21 , and the buckle 15 is snapped onto the sealing member 24 .

[0117] Combining the buckle 15 with the connector 11 can provide an air guide path and maintain good air tightness while maintaining structural stability.

[0118] The combination of the clip 15 and the seal 24 provides a reliable seal, preventing leakage of liquid or gas within the heat conduction groove 21 and effectively maintaining system efficiency and safety. The design of the clip 15 simplifies and swiftly installs and removes the first and second protective plates 10 and 20, enabling quick connection and disconnection without the need for complex tools or procedures, thereby improving production efficiency and ease of maintenance.

[0119] The buckle 15 provides additional mechanical fixation, enhances the structural stability between the connector 11 and the heat conducting groove 21, and reduces the risk of loosening or falling off under vibration or impact conditions.

[0120] The design of the buckle 15 and the seal 24 is more cost-effective than other complex connection and sealing methods and is suitable for large-scale production and application.

[0121] In a possible implementation, the sealing member 24 is an elastic sealing ring.

[0122] In a possible implementation, the material of the sealing member 24 may be one or more of rubber and plastic that are high temperature resistant, elastic, and have high thermal conductivity.

[0123] In a possible implementation, the buckle 15 can be of any shape, including but not limited to a trapezoidal shape, a conical shape, a cross-arrow shape, an E-shape, a straight shape, and a T-shape.

[0124] Optionally, the buckle 15 may be set to a size that is compatible with the seal 24 to ensure that the first protective plate 10 and the second protective plate 20 are stably connected.

[0125] In a possible implementation, the shape of the buckle 15 includes at least one of a trapezoidal shape, a conical shape, a cross-arrow shape, an E-shape, a straight shape, and a T-shape.

[0126] The shape of the buckle 15 can be selected according to specific application requirements to adapt to different materials, loads and environmental conditions, providing flexible design solutions, such as enhanced fixing effect, easy installation and removal, self-locking function, improved safety, and enhanced sealing effect.

[0127] In one possible implementation, the buckle 15 is a cantilever buckle, and a buckle structure with a larger buckle width and a deeper buckle retaining surface is used to give the buckle 15 good retaining strength. It can be set as a trapezoidal cantilever buckle to facilitate adaptation to a variety of seals 24.

[0128] In a possible implementation, the opening of the heat conducting groove 21 may be in any shape, including but not limited to an elliptical shape, a T-shape, a circular shape, and a square shape.

[0129] Optionally, the opening of the heat conducting groove 21 can be set to a size that is compatible with the connector 11 to ensure that the first protective plate 10 and the second protective plate 20 are stably connected, and the shape can be set to an elliptical shape to facilitate adaptation to various types of connectors 11.

[0130] In a possible implementation, the shape of the heat conducting groove 21 can be any shape, including but not limited to a hemispherical shape, a U-shape, and a conical shape.

[0131] Optionally, the shape of the heat conduction groove 21 can be set to an inverted U shape, so that the stress is concentrated on the release portion 221, so that the gas phase first material 13 and the liquid phase second material 23 are released when the thermal runaway reaches a certain level.

[0132] In a possible implementation, the shape of the heat conducting groove 21 includes at least one of a hemispherical shape, a U-shape, and a conical shape.

[0133] The hemispherical structure of the heat conduction groove 21 evenly distributes internal pressure, reducing stress concentration and the risk of structural damage. The hemispherical shape provides excellent structural strength and stability, making it suitable for withstanding high internal pressures. Furthermore, the hemispherical structure of the heat conduction groove 21 facilitates the natural flow and circulation of liquid and gas within the heat conduction groove 21, improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0134] The U-shaped heat-conducting groove 21 is convenient for collecting and discharging liquid. At the same time, the U-shaped structure is relatively simple, easy to manufacture and install, and reduces production costs.

[0135] The conical heat conduction groove 21 can utilize gravity to promote the natural drainage of liquid, reduce liquid residue, and improve system efficiency. In addition, the conical shape provides good pressure resistance and is suitable for use in high-pressure environments.

[0136] In a possible implementation, the connecting member 11 is a hollow structure.

[0137] The hollow structure significantly reduces the weight of the connector 11 and acts as a thermal insulator, reducing heat conduction into the battery assembly through the connector 11. The hollow structure of the connector 11 can absorb and mitigate vibration and impact to a certain extent, protecting the connector 11.

[0138] In a possible implementation, the connector 11 may be made of one or more of high-temperature-resistant plastic, metal, and silicone, and may be fixed to the second protective plate 20 by direct insertion.

[0139] In a possible implementation, the material of the buckle 15 is the same as that of the connecting member 11 to prevent deformation due to high temperature from causing failure of the connection structure of the first protective plate 10 .

[0140] The cooling structure 100 provided in the embodiment of the present application includes a plurality of first protective plates 10 and a second protective plate 20. Along the first direction x, the plurality of first protective plates 10 are arranged in sequence, and a receiving space 101 for receiving the battery cells in the battery assembly is formed between adjacent first protective plates 10. The first protective plate 10 is provided with a connector 11. The second protective plate 20 is provided with a heat conducting groove 21. The connector 11 is provided in the heat conducting groove 21 to connect the first protective plate 10 and the second protective plate 20. The first protective plate 10 includes a first shell 12 and a first material 13 filled in the first shell 12. The first material 13 is used to vaporize after absorbing the heat of the battery cell, thereby transporting the vaporized first material 13 to the heat conducting groove 21 through the connector 11. The heat conducting groove 21 is used to exchange heat with the vaporized first material 13, thereby condensing the first material 13, and returning the condensed first material 13 to the first shell 12 through the connector 11.

[0141] By placing a first protective plate 10 between adjacent battery cells and connecting a second protective plate 20 to the first protective plate 10, heat is absorbed from the sides of the battery cells through the first protective plate 10, vaporizing the first material 13 in the first protective plate 10. The vaporized first material 13 is then transferred to the heat conduction groove 21 via the connector 11. In the heat conduction groove 21, the vaporized first material 13 exchanges heat with the second protective plate 20, condensing the first material 13 and effectively transferring heat to the second protective plate 20. Further heat is dissipated through the second protective plate 20. The heat conduction groove 21 also serves as a buffer to prevent premature leakage of the partially vaporized first material 13 due to thermal runaway. The condensed first material 13 flows back into the first housing 12 through the connector 11. By utilizing the phase change properties of the first material 13 (from liquid to gas and back to liquid), cyclic phase change heat transfer is achieved, effectively absorbing and releasing heat generated by the battery cells, improving heat dissipation efficiency, and reducing the risk of battery overheating, thereby extending the battery life and enhancing battery performance and safety. The combined design of the plurality of first protective plates 10 and the second protective plates 20 enables the cooling structure 100 to be compactly integrated into the battery assembly without occupying additional space while providing an effective cooling function.

[0142] The present application also provides a battery assembly including a plurality of battery cells and the cooling structure 100. The plurality of battery cells are arranged in sequence, a first protective plate 10 is provided between adjacent battery cells, and a second protective plate 20 is provided on one side of the plurality of battery cells.

[0143] Since the battery assembly in this embodiment includes the cooling structure 100 described in any of the above embodiments, the structure and beneficial effects of the battery assembly including the cooling structure 100 will not be further described in this embodiment.

[0144] An embodiment of the present application also provides a battery pack comprising the above-mentioned battery assembly.

[0145] In addition, embodiments of the present application further provide an electrical device comprising the aforementioned battery assembly or battery pack. The electrical device further comprises an electrical device. The battery assembly or battery pack is used to provide electrical energy to the electrical device.

[0146] The electrical equipment in the embodiments of the present application may be a vehicle. For example, the vehicle may be a fuel-powered vehicle, a gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle, and the new energy vehicle may be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or an extended-range vehicle. Accordingly, the electrical device may be the vehicle's drive mechanism or the vehicle's control system.

[0147] In addition, the electrical equipment may also be other energy storage devices, such as energy storage power stations, energy storage cabinets, mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, electric toys, electric tools, ships and spacecraft, etc., among which spacecraft may include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles or spacecraft.

[0148] It should be noted that references in this specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an exemplary embodiment," "some embodiments," and the like indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not necessarily every embodiment includes that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, it is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to implement such feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not.

[0149] Generally speaking, terms should be understood, at least in part, based on the context in which they are used. For example, as used herein, the term "one or more" can be used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic in the singular sense, or can be used to describe a combination of features, structures, or characteristics in the plural sense, depending at least in part on the context. Similarly, terms such as "a," "an," or "the" can also be understood to convey either singular or plural usage, depending at least in part on the context.

[0150] It should be readily understood that “on,” “above,” and “over” in this application should be interpreted in the broadest manner, such that “on” means not only “directly on something,” but also includes “on something” with intervening features or layers therebetween, and “above” or “over” includes not only the meaning of “above” or “over,” but also includes “above” or “over” with no intervening features or layers therebetween (i.e., directly on something).

[0151] Additionally, spatially relative terms, such as "below," "beneath," "beneath," "above," and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to other elements or features as depicted in the figures. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90° or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0152] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A cooling structure for a battery assembly, wherein a plurality of battery cells in the battery assembly are arranged sequentially along a first direction, characterized in that: Comprising: A plurality of first protective plates (10) are arranged in sequence along a first direction, and an accommodation space (101) for accommodating the battery cells is formed between adjacent first protective plates (10). The first protective plate (10) is provided with a connecting member (11); A second protective plate (20), the second protective plate (20) is provided with a heat conduction groove (21), and the connecting member (11) is arranged in the heat conduction groove (21) to connect the first protective plate (10) and the second protective plate (20); The first protective plate (10) includes a first housing (12) and a first material (13) filled in the first housing (12). The connecting member (11) is used to connect the first housing (12) and the heat conduction groove (21) to facilitate heat exchange between the first material (13) and the second protective plate (20).

2. The cooling structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first material (13) is a phase change material, which is used to vaporize after absorbing the heat of the battery cells, and then the vaporized first material (13) is transported to the heat conduction groove (21) through the connecting member (11); the heat conduction groove (21) is used to exchange heat with the vaporized first material (13), thereby condensing the first material (13), and the condensed first material (13) is returned to the first housing (12) through the connecting member (11).

3. The cooling structure according to claim 2, characterized in that: The connecting member (11) is provided with a release port (111) and a return port (112), and both the release port (111) and the return port (112) are located in the heat conduction groove (21).

4. The cooling structure according to claim 3, characterized in that: In the vertical direction, the release port (111) is located above the return port (112).

5. The cooling structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second protective plate (20) includes a second housing (22) and a second material (23) filled in the second housing (22), and the heat conduction groove (21) is formed on the second housing (22).

6. The cooling structure according to claim 5, characterized in that: The second housing (22) is provided with a release portion (221), and the release portion (221) is used to open when a preset pressure is applied to release the second material (23).

7. The cooling structure according to claim 6, characterized in that: The release portion (221) is arranged at the opening of the heat conduction groove (21).

8. The cooling structure according to claim 6, characterized in that: The shape of the release portion (221) includes at least one of a U shape, a V shape, an M shape.

9. The cooling structure according to claim 6, characterized in that: The release portion (221) is formed by reducing the thickness of a partial area of the second housing (22); and / or the release portion (221) is formed by solder paste sealing the second housing (22).

10. The cooling structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The first protective plate (10) further includes an inner core (14), and the inner core (14) is arranged in the first housing (12).

11. The cooling structure according to claim 10, characterized in that: The cross-sectional shape of the inner core (14) in the first direction includes at least one of a wavy shape and a toothed shape.

12. The cooling structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: In the first direction, among the plurality of first protective plates (10), the number of the connecting members (11) on the middle first protective plate (10) is greater than the number of the connecting members (11) on the first protective plates (10) on both sides.

13. The cooling structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: A buckle (15) is provided on the connecting member (11), a sealing member (24) is provided at the opening of the heat conducting groove (21), and the buckle (15) is clamped on the sealing member (24).

14. The cooling structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The shape of the heat conduction groove (21) includes at least one of a hemispherical shape, a U shape, and a conical shape.

15. The cooling structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The connecting piece (11) is a hollow structure.

16. A battery assembly, characterized in that: It comprises a plurality of battery cells and a cooling structure (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A battery pack, characterized in that: Comprising the battery assembly as claimed in claim 16.

18. An electrical device, characterized in that: Comprising the battery assembly as claimed in claim 16, or the battery pack as claimed in claim 17.

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