Gas-liquid separation device, battery pack and vehicle

Abstract

The invention provides a gas-liquid separation device and a battery pack, the gas-liquid separation device comprises at least one gas-liquid separator, and the gas-liquid separator comprises a shell provided with a first gas-liquid separation cavity; the first gas-liquid separation cavity is provided with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; the fluid inlet is used for being hermetically connected with the outer wall of the battery cell and communicated with an anti-explosion valve outlet of the battery cell; the first gas-liquid separation assembly is used for carrying out gas-liquid separation on the gas-liquid mixture, and the first gas-liquid separation assembly is arranged in the first gas-liquid separation cavity; the first gas-liquid separation assembly comprises a first liquid absorption structure used for absorbing liquid; the first filter plate can conduct baffling separation on the gas-liquid mixture, the first filter plate is arranged on at least one of the incident flow side and the back flow side of the first liquid absorption structure, and a plurality of first through holes allowing fluid to pass through are formed in the first filter plate. The first gas-liquid separation assembly realizes gas-liquid separation through a first filter plate and a first liquid absorption structure, so that the problem that a large amount of smoke is discharged after the battery cell is thermally runaway can be solved, and potential safety hazards are reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of lithium battery technology, specifically to a gas-liquid separation device, as well as a battery pack and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, lithium-ion power batteries are the most commonly used batteries in new energy vehicles; lithium batteries are often installed in the form of blade battery packs. Blade battery packs design individual cells as thin, long blades and encapsulate them directly, thus accommodating more cells within a limited space and effectively improving the overall energy density of the battery. Each cell is equipped with an explosion-proof valve. In the event of thermal runaway, the explosion-proof valve opens, allowing high-temperature gases inside the cell to escape and release internal pressure.

[0003] To optimize the fast charging and discharging performance of the battery cells, it is inevitable to inject a larger amount of electrolyte inside the lithium battery cells to enable rapid ionization of lithium ions during charging and discharging. However, after thermal runaway of the cells in the blade battery pack, some of the liquid electrolyte is vaporized at high temperature, forming a high-speed gas flow. This high-speed gas flow carries a large amount of liquid electrolyte, gaseous electrolyte, and a mixture of chemical reactions out of the pack. The gas-liquid mixture undergoes complex reactions, forming a large amount of smoke, causing a significant safety hazard due to the large amount of smoke emitted after thermal runaway of the cells. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a gas-liquid separation device, a battery pack, and a vehicle to solve the problem of excessive smoke emission after thermal runaway of battery cells and reduce safety hazards.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution:

[0006] A gas-liquid separation device includes at least one gas-liquid separator, the gas-liquid separator comprising:

[0007] The housing is provided with a first gas-liquid separation chamber, which has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The fluid inlet is used to seal and connect with the outer wall of the battery cell and communicate with the outlet of the battery cell's explosion-proof valve. The fluid outlet is used to discharge gas.

[0008] A first gas-liquid separation component is used to separate the gas-liquid mixture into gas and liquid components, and the first gas-liquid separation component is disposed in the first gas-liquid separation chamber;

[0009] The first gas-liquid separation component includes:

[0010] The first liquid-absorbing structure is used to adsorb liquid;

[0011] The first filter plate is capable of separating the gas-liquid mixture by deflection. The first filter plate is disposed on at least one side of the front flow side and the back flow side of the first liquid absorption structure. The first filter plate is provided with a plurality of first through holes for fluid to pass through.

[0012] Optionally, in the above-mentioned gas-liquid separation device, the first filter plate can change the gas flow direction in the first gas-liquid separation chamber to cause centrifugal separation of the gas-liquid mixture. The first filter plate divides the first gas-liquid separation chamber into a first fluid chamber and a first liquid collection chamber. The first through hole connects the first fluid chamber and the first liquid collection chamber. The first liquid suction structure is disposed in the first liquid collection chamber. The fluid inlet and the fluid outlet are both disposed in the first fluid chamber.

[0013] Optionally, in the above gas-liquid separation device, the first filter plate is arc-shaped, and its inner circumferential surface faces the first fluid cavity;

[0014] The gas-liquid separator further includes a flow guide baffle for promoting fluid flow toward the position of the first filter plate. The flow guide baffle divides the first fluid cavity into a first channel and a second channel. There is a flow gap between the flow guide baffle and the first filter plate, and the flow gap connects the first channel and the second channel.

[0015] The fluid inlet is located at the end of the first channel that is furthest from the second channel;

[0016] The fluid outlet is located at the end of the second channel away from the first channel.

[0017] Optionally, in the above-mentioned gas-liquid separation device, the housing includes a bottom shell with an upper opening and an upper cover that is removably sealed to the upper opening.

[0018] Optionally, in the above-mentioned gas-liquid separation device, the gas-liquid separator further includes:

[0019] An exhaust chute is connected to the bottom of the housing. The exhaust chute is provided with a second gas-liquid separation chamber. The second gas-liquid separation chamber has an air inlet and an exhaust outlet. The air inlet is connected to the fluid outlet, and the exhaust outlet is connected to the outside.

[0020] The second gas-liquid separation component is used to perform secondary gas-liquid separation on the gas-liquid mixture, and the second gas-liquid separation component is disposed in the second gas-liquid separation chamber.

[0021] Optionally, in the above-mentioned gas-liquid separation device, the second gas-liquid separation component includes:

[0022] The second filter plate is capable of baffled separation of gas-liquid mixture. The second filter plate divides the second gas-liquid separation chamber into a second fluid chamber and a second liquid collection chamber. The second liquid collection chamber is located below the second fluid chamber. The second filter plate is provided with a plurality of second through holes that connect the second fluid chamber and the second liquid collection chamber. The air inlet and the exhaust outlet are respectively located at both ends of the second fluid chamber.

[0023] The second liquid absorption structure is used to absorb liquid, and the second liquid absorption structure is disposed in the second liquid collection chamber.

[0024] Optionally, in the above-mentioned gas-liquid separation device, the exhaust chute extends from the bottom of the housing near the battery cell to the bottom of the housing away from the battery cell.

[0025] The exhaust chute is curved downwards; the second filter plate is capable of centrifugally separating the gas-liquid mixture.

[0026] Optionally, in the above-mentioned gas-liquid separation device, the gas-liquid separator further includes a liquid storage tank disposed below the housing;

[0027] The first gas-liquid separation chamber has a first drain port, which is located at the bottom of the housing and connected to the liquid storage tank via a drain pipe; and / or, the second gas-liquid separation chamber has a second drain port, which is located at the bottom of the exhaust chute and connected to the liquid storage tank.

[0028] Optionally, in the above-mentioned gas-liquid separation device, there are multiple gas-liquid separators, which are configured to correspond one-to-one with at least one side of multiple battery cell units arranged sequentially in the battery pack. The housing of each gas-liquid separator is respectively sealed and connected to the outer wall of the corresponding battery cell unit, and the fluid inlet of each gas-liquid separator is configured to correspond to at least one explosion-proof valve of the battery cell unit.

[0029] Optionally, in the above-mentioned gas-liquid separation device, the first gas-liquid separation chambers of two adjacent gas-liquid separators are connected in series;

[0030] And / or, the top cover of the housing of all the gas-liquid separators is a one-piece structure;

[0031] And / or, the liquid storage compartments of all the gas-liquid separators are interconnected;

[0032] And / or, the flow guide baffle of each of the gas-liquid separators can close the gap between the first and second battery cell groups of the corresponding battery cell unit.

[0033] The gas-liquid separation device provided in this application includes at least one gas-liquid separator, which includes a housing and a first gas-liquid separation component. The housing is provided with a first gas-liquid separation chamber, which has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The fluid inlet is used to seal and connect with the outer wall of the battery cell and communicate with the outlet of the explosion-proof valve of the battery cell. The fluid outlet is used to discharge gas. The first gas-liquid separation component is used to separate the gas-liquid mixture. The first gas-liquid separation component is disposed in the first gas-liquid separation chamber, so that the first gas-liquid separation component is located on the flow path of the fluid flowing in from the fluid inlet and flowing out from the fluid outlet. The first gas-liquid separation component includes a first liquid absorption structure for adsorbing liquid. A first filter plate is used to perform flow separation of the gas-liquid mixture. The first filter plate is disposed on at least one side of the front and back flow sides of the first liquid absorption structure. The first filter plate has a plurality of first through holes for fluid to pass through.

[0034] In application, the fluid inlet of the first gas-liquid separation chamber of the housing is sealed and connected to the outer wall of the battery cell and communicates with the outlet of the battery cell's explosion-proof valve. This allows it to receive the gas-liquid mixture discharged from the battery cell from the explosion-proof valve outlet. When the battery cell experiences thermal runaway, the explosion-proof valve opens, and the high-temperature gas inside the battery cell, carrying the gas-liquid mixture formed by the liquid electrolyte, is discharged from the explosion-proof valve outlet and enters the fluid inlet of the gas-liquid separator. After flowing through the first gas-liquid separation component in the first gas-liquid separation chamber, it is discharged from the fluid outlet.

[0035] The first gas-liquid separation component separates the gas-liquid mixture through a first filter plate, thereby retaining a portion of the liquid in the gas-liquid mixture and reducing the liquid content of the gas-liquid mixture entering the first through hole. At the same time, it adsorbs liquid through a first liquid absorption structure to retain the liquid in the gas-liquid mixture and reduce the liquid content in the gas-liquid mixture. In this way, gas-liquid separation can be achieved, reducing the liquid content of the gas-liquid mixture discharged from the fluid outlet, thereby reducing the amount of flue gas formed by the discharged gas-liquid mixture. This can solve the problem of large amounts of smoke emission after thermal runaway of the battery cell and reduce safety hazards.

[0036] This application also provides a battery pack, including a plurality of battery cells and a gas-liquid separation device connected to the outlet of the explosion-proof valve of the battery cells, wherein the gas-liquid separation device is any of the gas-liquid separation devices described above; since the gas-liquid separation devices have the above-mentioned effects, the battery pack having the above-mentioned gas-liquid separation devices has the same effects, so it will not be described in detail here.

[0037] This application also provides a vehicle including any of the gas-liquid separation devices or battery packs described above, wherein the battery pack includes any of the gas-liquid separation devices described above. Since the gas-liquid separation devices have the aforementioned effects, the vehicle has the same effects, therefore, further details are omitted here. Attached Figure Description

[0038] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be introduced below. The accompanying drawings described below are merely embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0039] Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of an exemplary gas-liquid separation device connected to a battery cell, consistent with some embodiments of this application, is shown.

[0040] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 Side view;

[0041] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 The main view;

[0042] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the gas-liquid separation device after the top cover has been removed;

[0043] Figure 5 A perspective view of an exemplary first-end separator consistent with some embodiments of this application is shown;

[0044] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 Top view;

[0045] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary first-end separator consistent with some embodiments of this application is shown;

[0046] Figure 8 A perspective view of an exemplary intermediate position separator consistent with some embodiments of this application is shown;

[0047] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 Top view;

[0048] Figure 10 A perspective view of an exemplary end-position separator consistent with some embodiments of this application is shown;

[0049] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 Top view;

[0050] Figure 12 A top view of an exemplary gas-liquid separation device, consistent with some embodiments of this application, is shown after the top cover has been removed and the device has been connected to a battery cell of the first arrangement.

[0051] Figure 13A top view of an exemplary gas-liquid separation device, consistent with some embodiments of this application, is shown after the top cover has been removed and the device has been connected to a battery cell of a second arrangement.

[0052] Figure 14 A top view of an exemplary gas-liquid separation device, consistent with some embodiments of this application, is shown after the top cover has been removed and the device has been connected to a battery cell arranged in a third manner.

[0053] Figure 15 A three-dimensional structural diagram of an exemplary gas-liquid separation device, consistent with some embodiments of this application, is shown after the top cover is removed and the device is connected to a battery cell in a fourth arrangement.

[0054] superior Figure 1-15 middle:

[0055] 10 - Battery cell; 101 - Explosion-proof valve; 20 - Gas-liquid separator;

[0056] 1-Top cover; 2-Bottom shell; 21-First side plate; 22-Second side plate; 23-Third side plate; 24-Fourth side plate; 25-Fluid inlet; 26-Overflow outlet; 27-Bottom plate; 28-Fluid outlet; 29-Overflow inlet; 3-Exhaust chute; 31-Exhaust port; 4-Liquid storage tank; 5-Drain pipe; 6-Second filter plate; 7-Flow guide baffle; 8-First liquid suction structure; 9-First filter plate; 11-Second liquid suction structure; 12-First channel; 13-Second channel. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The embodiments of this application will be described below. It should be noted that, in order to provide a concise description of these embodiments, this specification cannot provide a detailed description of all features of the actual embodiments. It should be understood that, in the actual implementation of any embodiment, changes may occur from one embodiment to another to achieve specific objectives. Furthermore, it is also understood that, although the efforts made in this development process may be complex and lengthy, for those skilled in the art related to the content of this application, some design, manufacturing, or production modifications based on the technical content disclosed in this application are merely conventional technical means and should not be construed as insufficient content of this application.

[0058] like Figures 1-15As shown, the gas-liquid separation device provided in this application embodiment includes at least one gas-liquid separator 20. The gas-liquid separator 20 includes a housing and a first gas-liquid separation component. The housing is provided with a first gas-liquid separation chamber, which has a fluid inlet 25 and a fluid outlet 28. The fluid inlet 25 is sealed to the outer wall of the battery cell 10 and is used to communicate with the outlet of the explosion-proof valve 101 of the battery cell 10. The fluid outlet 28 is used to discharge gas. The first gas-liquid separation component is used to separate the gas-liquid mixture. The first gas-liquid separation component is disposed in the first gas-liquid separation chamber, so that the first gas-liquid separation component is located on the flow path of the fluid flowing in from the fluid inlet 25 and flowing out from the fluid outlet 28. The first gas-liquid separation component includes a first liquid absorption structure 8 for adsorbing liquid and a first filter plate 9 for deflecting and separating the gas-liquid mixture. The first filter plate 9 is disposed on at least one side of the front and back flow sides of the first liquid absorption structure 8. The first filter plate 9 is provided with a plurality of first through holes for fluid to pass through.

[0059] In application, the fluid inlet 25 of the first gas-liquid separation chamber of the housing is sealed to the outer wall of the battery cell 10 and connected to the outlet of the explosion-proof valve 101 of the battery cell 10. This allows it to receive the gas-liquid mixture discharged from the outlet of the explosion-proof valve 101 of the battery cell 10. When the battery cell 10 experiences thermal runaway, the explosion-proof valve 101 opens, and the gas-liquid mixture formed by the high-temperature gas inside the battery cell 10 carrying the liquid electrolyte is discharged from the outlet of the explosion-proof valve 101 and enters the fluid inlet 25 of the gas-liquid separator 20. After flowing through the first gas-liquid separation component in the first gas-liquid separation chamber, it is discharged from the fluid outlet 28.

[0060] The first gas-liquid separation component separates the gas-liquid mixture through the first filter plate 9, thereby retaining a portion of the liquid in the gas-liquid mixture and reducing the liquid content of the gas-liquid mixture entering the first through hole. At the same time, the first liquid absorption structure 8 adsorbs the liquid, thereby retaining the liquid in the gas-liquid mixture and reducing the liquid content in the gas-liquid mixture. In this way, gas-liquid separation can be achieved, reducing the liquid content of the gas-liquid mixture discharged from the fluid outlet 28, thereby reducing the amount of flue gas formed by the discharged gas-liquid mixture. This can solve the problem of large amounts of smoke emitted after thermal runaway of the battery cell 10 and reduce safety hazards.

[0061] In addition, the gas-liquid mixture will also condense during the flow in the first gas-liquid separation chamber, which will achieve a certain gas-liquid separation effect and reduce the amount of flue gas emitted from the gas-liquid mixture to a certain extent, thus reducing safety hazards.

[0062] It should be noted that the front side of the first liquid suction structure 8 refers to the side of the first liquid suction structure 8 that is close to the fluid inlet 25, that is, the side facing the direction of incoming flow; the back side of the first liquid suction structure 8 refers to the side of the first liquid suction structure 8 that is close to the fluid outlet 28, that is, the side facing away from the direction of incoming flow.

[0063] The first filter plate 9 can be set on the upstream or downstream side of the first liquid absorption structure 8. In this case, the first gas-liquid separation component is a single-layer filter plate structure, which is relatively simple and can perform one-stage baffle separation of the gas-liquid mixture. Alternatively, the first filter plate 9 can be set on both the upstream and downstream sides of the first liquid absorption structure 8. In this case, the first gas-liquid separation component is a double-layer filter plate structure, which can perform two-stage baffle separation of the gas-liquid mixture, resulting in better baffle separation effect.

[0064] The principle of gas-liquid separation using baffled flow separation is as follows: due to the difference in specific gravity between gas and liquid, when liquid and gas are mixed and flowing together, if they encounter an obstruction, the gas will be deflected and flow away, while the liquid, due to inertia, continues to have a forward velocity. The forward-moving liquid adheres to the obstruction wall and converges downwards due to gravity. Therefore, the first filter plate 9 can obstruct the gas-liquid mixture in the first gas-liquid separation chamber, allowing the gas to carry a portion of the liquid through, while a portion of the liquid is blocked and adheres to the first filter plate 9, thus separating a portion of the liquid from the gas-liquid mixture.

[0065] The size of the fluid inlet 25 of the housing is determined based on the outlet size of the explosion-proof valve 101 of the battery cell 10 to meet the battery pack design of battery cells 10 connected in series and parallel with different specifications. The size of the fluid inlet 25 can be larger than the size of the explosion-proof valve 101 of the battery cell 10. After the fluid inlet 25 of the housing is sealed to the outer wall of the battery cell 10, the circumferential sidewall of the fluid inlet 25 wraps around the outer ring of the explosion-proof valve 101 to ensure that after thermal runaway of the battery cell 10, all the gas-liquid mixture ejected from the explosion-proof valve 101 of the battery cell 10 enters the fluid inlet 25.

[0066] Optionally, the fluid inlet 25 of the housing is sealed to the outer wall of the battery cell 10 by bonding, which facilitates assembly. The multiple first through holes on the first filter plate 9 are preferably uniformly distributed cylindrical holes, which provide better gas-liquid separation and are also easier to process. The first through holes can also be other shapes, such as elliptical cylindrical holes, rectangular holes, or strip-shaped holes.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first filter plate 9 can change the gas flow direction in the first gas-liquid separation chamber to cause centrifugal separation of the gas-liquid mixture. The first filter plate 9 divides the first gas-liquid separation chamber into a first fluid chamber and a first liquid collection chamber. A first through hole connects the first fluid chamber and the first liquid collection chamber. A first liquid suction structure 8 is disposed in the first liquid collection chamber. Both the fluid inlet 25 and the fluid outlet 28 are disposed in the first fluid chamber. Figures 4-15As shown, when the gas-liquid mixture flows through the first filter plate 9, the first filter plate 9 can change the gas flow direction in the first gas-liquid separation chamber without changing the liquid flow direction, generating centrifugal force on the gas-liquid mixture. This centrifugal force can promote the liquid to be thrown from the first through hole of the first filter plate 9 into the first liquid collection chamber and absorbed by the first liquid absorption structure 8, resulting in better gas-liquid separation. In this way, when the battery cell 10 experiences thermal runaway, all the gas-liquid mixture ejected from the explosion-proof valve 101 of the battery cell 10 enters the fluid inlet 25, flows into the first fluid chamber, and flows through the first filter plate 9. The centrifugal force of the first filter plate 9 throws the liquid in the gas-liquid mixture through the first through hole into the first liquid collection chamber and is absorbed by the first liquid absorption structure 8. The separated gas flows along the guide surface of the first filter plate 9 to the fluid outlet 28 and is discharged from the fluid outlet 28, avoiding the formation of flue gas due to complex reactions in the gas-liquid mixture, thereby achieving the technical effect of exhausting gas without emitting smoke.

[0068] The first filter plate 9 can be a curved plate or a flat plate. For example, the curved plate can be arc-shaped, U-shaped, elliptical arc-shaped, etc. The flat plate has an angle greater than 0° with the incoming flow direction of the gas-liquid mixture, such as 45° or 90°, and there can be one or more flat plates. This can change the gas flow direction in the first gas-liquid separation chamber, causing the gas-liquid mixture in the first gas-liquid separation chamber to undergo centrifugal separation.

[0069] Preferably, the first filter plate 9 is semi-circular, and its inner circumferential surface forms a guide surface facing the first fluid cavity. This guide surface is a smooth curved surface, which can avoid dead air angles, facilitate gas flow, and improve gas-liquid separation efficiency.

[0070] Optionally, the first filter plate 9 can also be a flat filter plate or a filter plate of other shapes.

[0071] The first liquid-absorbing structure 8 can be an organic polymer material, such as porous absorbent foam, which has good resistance to high temperatures and good water absorption capacity, making it easy to adsorb electrolyte. The first liquid-absorbing structure 8 can also be an inorganic non-metallic material, such as graphene; or a special fiber, such as fluorocellulose fiber or polyimide fiber; all of which have excellent water absorption and resistance properties and can adsorb electrolyte.

[0072] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid separator 20 further includes a flow guide baffle 7 for promoting fluid flow toward the position of the first filter plate 9. The flow guide baffle 7 divides the first fluid chamber into a first channel 12 and a second channel 13. A flow gap exists between the flow guide baffle 7 and the first filter plate 9, and the flow gap connects the first channel 12 and the second channel 13. A fluid inlet 25 is located at the end of the first channel 12 away from the second channel 13; a fluid outlet 28 is located at the end of the second channel 13 away from the first channel 12. Figures 4-6 , Figures 8-11As shown, the gas-liquid mixture entering the fluid inlet 25 is guided to the position of the first filter plate 9 by the flow guide baffle 7, promoting the flow of the gas-liquid mixture towards the first filter plate 9. At the same time, the flow gap between the flow guide baffle 7 and the first filter plate 9 is used to enhance the airflow velocity, which can improve the gas-liquid separation effect. In this way, when the battery cell 10 thermally runs away, all the gas-liquid mixture ejected from the explosion-proof valve 101 of the battery cell 10 enters the fluid inlet 25 and flows into the first channel 12. Then it flows through the flow gap between the flow guide baffle 7 and the first filter plate 9 and flows into the second channel 13. The gas separated by the first filter plate 9 and the first liquid absorption structure 8 flows along the guide surface of the first filter plate 9 to the fluid outlet 28 and is discharged from the fluid outlet 28. This avoids the formation of flue gas due to complex reactions of the gas-liquid mixture, thus achieving the technical effect of exhausting gas but not emitting smoke.

[0073] Preferably, the flow guide baffle 7 is arranged along the axis of symmetry of the first filter plate 9, so that the first channel 12 and the second channel 13 are arranged symmetrically, which facilitates layout. Of course, the flow guide baffle 7 can also be arranged at an angle relative to the axis of symmetry of the first filter plate 9, as long as a flow gap can be formed between it and the first filter plate 9.

[0074] Optionally, the flow gap between the flow guide baffle 7 and the first filter plate 9 is smaller than the width of the fluid inlet 25 along the width direction of the battery cell 10 cover plate. This makes the flow area between the flow guide baffle 7 and the first filter plate smaller than the flow area of ​​the fluid inlet 25, which can effectively enhance the airflow velocity. The width of the fluid inlet 25 can be the width of the battery cell 10 cover plate or smaller than the width of the battery cell 10 cover plate.

[0075] In some embodiments, the housing includes a bottom shell 2 having an upper opening and an upper cover 1 removably sealing the upper opening. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the upper cover 1 is used to seal the upper opening of the bottom shell 2, forming a sealed first gas-liquid separation chamber. Simultaneously, the upper cover 1 can be detachably connected to the bottom shell 2 via threaded connections or snap-fit ​​methods, facilitating the disassembly and replacement of the first liquid-absorbing structure 8. For example, when the first liquid-absorbing structure 8 is a porous liquid-absorbing foam, disassembly and replacement of the porous liquid-absorbing foam can be performed from the upper opening, facilitating the maintenance of the gas-liquid separation device. Optionally, the upper cover 1 can be installed flush with the top surface of the battery cell 10, improving the flatness of the top surface and increasing space utilization.

[0076] like Figures 6-7As shown, the bottom shell 2 includes a bottom plate 27 and four side plates connected between the bottom plate 27 and the top cover 1. The four side plates are: a first side plate 21, which is arranged vertically and used to cover the outer wall of the battery cell 10, with the end of the flow guide baffle 7 away from the first filter plate disposed on the first side plate 21; a second side plate 22, which is arranged vertically and parallel to the first side plate 21; a third side plate 23, which is arranged vertically and perpendicular to the first side plate 21, with a gap between the first end of the third side plate 23 and the first end of the first side plate 21 to form a fluid inlet 25, and the second end of the third side plate 23 connected to the first end of the second side plate 22; and a fourth side plate 24, which is arranged vertically and parallel to the third side plate 23, and the fourth side plate 24 is connected between the second end of the first side plate 21 and the second end of the second side plate 22. The two ends of the first filter plate are respectively disposed on the third side plate 23 and the fourth side plate 24, and are spaced apart from the second side plate 22 to form a first liquid collection chamber. With this configuration, the bottom shell 2 is formed by the bottom plate 27 and four side plates, which has an opening at the top. The structure is simple and easy to assemble. At the same time, the first liquid collection chamber formed by the side plates and the first filter plate is a U-shaped cavity. The straight sections at both ends facilitate the flow of fluid, and the semi-circular section in the middle can improve the gas-liquid separation effect. Moreover, it can make the shell structure more compact, reduce the space occupied by the battery pack, and avoid affecting the overall energy density of the battery pack.

[0077] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid separator 20 further includes an exhaust chute 3 connected to the bottom of the housing. The exhaust chute 3 is provided with a second gas-liquid separation chamber, which has an air inlet and an exhaust outlet 31. The air inlet communicates with the fluid outlet 28, and the exhaust outlet 31 communicates with the outside. A second gas-liquid separation component is used for secondary gas-liquid separation of the gas-liquid mixture, and the second gas-liquid separation component is disposed in the second gas-liquid separation chamber. Figure 7 As shown, a two-stage gas-liquid separation mechanism is formed by the exhaust chute 3 and the second gas-liquid separation component. When the first gas-liquid separation chamber of the housing, in conjunction with the first gas-liquid separation component, forms a first-stage gas-liquid separation mechanism, the gas-liquid mixture undergoes first-stage gas-liquid separation. The separated gas flows out from the fluid outlet 28 and enters the inlet of the second gas-liquid separation chamber. Then, it flows through the second gas-liquid separation component in the second gas-liquid separation chamber and is discharged from the exhaust port 31. This allows the gas-liquid mixture generated after thermal runaway of the battery cell 10 to undergo secondary gas-liquid separation, improving the gas-liquid separation effect. The separated gas is discharged outside the battery pack, while the separated liquid is retained and not discharged outside the battery pack. This achieves the technical effect of only venting gas and not venting smoke after thermal runaway of the battery pack, further improving the smoke emission effect after thermal runaway of the battery cell 10.

[0078] In some embodiments, the second gas-liquid separation assembly includes a second filter plate 6, capable of baffled separation of the gas-liquid mixture. The second filter plate 6 divides the second gas-liquid separation chamber into a second fluid chamber and a second liquid collection chamber. The second liquid collection chamber is located below the second fluid chamber. The second filter plate 6 has multiple second through holes communicating with the second fluid chamber and the second liquid collection chamber. An air inlet and an exhaust outlet 31 are respectively located at both ends of the second fluid chamber. A second liquid absorption structure 11 is used to absorb liquid and is disposed in the second liquid collection chamber. Figure 7 As shown, the second gas-liquid separation chamber of the exhaust chute 3 is divided into two upper and lower chambers, a second fluid chamber and a second liquid collection chamber, by the second filter plate 6. The second gas-liquid separation assembly uses the second filter plate 6 to perform baffle separation on the gas-liquid mixture in the second gas-liquid separation chamber, thereby retaining a portion of the liquid in the gas-liquid mixture and reducing the liquid content of the gas-liquid mixture entering the second through hole; at the same time, the second liquid absorption structure 11 adsorbs the liquid, thereby retaining the liquid in the gas-liquid mixture and reducing the liquid content in the gas-liquid mixture; in this way, secondary gas-liquid separation of the gas-liquid mixture can be achieved, further reducing the liquid content of the gas-liquid mixture discharged from the fluid outlet 28, thereby further reducing the amount of flue gas formed by the discharged gas-liquid mixture, which can better solve the problem of large amounts of smoke emission after thermal runaway of the battery cell 10, and further reduce safety hazards.

[0079] In addition, the gas-liquid mixture will also condense during the flow in the second gas-liquid separation chamber, which will achieve a certain gas-liquid separation effect and reduce the amount of flue gas emitted from the gas-liquid mixture to a certain extent, thus reducing safety hazards.

[0080] It should be noted that the principle of gas-liquid separation using baffle separation is as follows: due to the difference in specific gravity between gas and liquid, when liquid and gas are mixed and flowing together, if they encounter an obstruction, the gas will be deflected and flow away, while the liquid, due to inertia, continues to have a forward velocity. The forward-moving liquid adheres to the obstruction wall and converges downwards due to gravity. Therefore, the second filter plate 6 can obstruct the gas-liquid mixture in the second gas-liquid separation chamber, allowing the gas to carry a portion of the liquid through, while a portion of the liquid is blocked and adheres to the second filter plate 6, thus separating a portion of the liquid from the gas-liquid mixture.

[0081] The second liquid-absorbing structure 11 can be an organic polymer material, such as porous absorbent foam, which has good resistance to high temperatures and good water absorption capacity, facilitating the adsorption of electrolyte. The second liquid-absorbing structure 11 can also be an inorganic non-metallic material, such as graphene; or a special fiber, such as fluoropolymer fiber or polyimide fiber; all of which have excellent water absorption and resistance properties, enabling them to adsorb electrolyte. To simplify the structure, the first liquid-absorbing structure 8 and the second liquid-absorbing structure 11 can be selected as having the same structure.

[0082] In some embodiments, the exhaust chute 3 extends downward from the bottom of the housing near the battery cell 10 to the bottom of the housing away from the battery cell 10; the exhaust chute 3 is in the shape of a downwardly curved section; and the second filter plate 6 is capable of centrifugally separating the gas-liquid mixture.

[0083] This configuration, with the exhaust chute 3 curved downwards, extends its length, increases the gas flow path, and improves the gas-liquid separation effect achieved through condensation. Simultaneously, the second filter plate 6 generates centrifugal force on the gas-liquid mixture. As the mixture flows through the second filter plate 6, this centrifugal force promotes the liquid to be thrown from the second through-hole into the second liquid collection chamber and absorbed by the second liquid absorption structure 11. The separated gas flows along the second filter plate 6 to the exhaust port 31 and is then discharged. This results in better gas-liquid separation. Consequently, a superior technical effect of exhausting gas without emitting smoke can be achieved.

[0084] The second filter plate 6 can be a curved plate or a flat plate. For example, the curved plate can be arc-shaped, U-shaped, elliptical arc-shaped, etc. The flat plate has an angle greater than 0° with the incoming flow direction of the gas-liquid mixture, such as 45° or 90°, and there can be one or more flat plates. This can change the gas flow direction in the second gas-liquid separation chamber, causing the gas-liquid mixture in the second gas-liquid separation chamber to undergo centrifugal separation.

[0085] Preferably, the first filter plate 9 is arc-shaped, with its concave surface facing the second fluid cavity to form a guide surface. This guide surface is a smooth curved surface, which can avoid dead air angles, facilitate gas flow, and improve gas-liquid separation efficiency.

[0086] In some embodiments, the gas-liquid separator 20 further includes a liquid storage chamber 4 disposed below the housing; wherein, the first gas-liquid separation chamber has a first drain port, which is opened at the bottom of the housing and communicates with the liquid storage chamber 4 through a drain pipe 5; and / or, the second gas-liquid separation chamber has a second drain port, which is opened at the bottom of the exhaust chute 3 and communicates with the liquid storage chamber 4.

[0087] In some embodiments, the first gas-liquid separation chamber may only have a first drain port; optionally, the first drain port is connected to the first liquid collection chamber for easy liquid drainage; when the liquid adsorbed by the first liquid absorption structure 8 exceeds the liquid absorption capacity, the liquid overflowing under the pressure of the subsequently thrown liquid can flow through the first drain port, through the drain pipe 5 and into the liquid storage chamber 4, thereby reducing the amount of liquid in the first gas-liquid separation chamber and preventing the airflow from carrying liquid again and affecting the gas-liquid separation effect.

[0088] Some embodiments may only have a second drain port in the second gas-liquid separation chamber; optionally, the second drain port is connected to the second liquid collection chamber for easy liquid drainage; when the liquid adsorbed by the second liquid absorption structure 11 exceeds the liquid absorption capacity, the liquid overflowing under the pressure of the subsequently thrown liquid can flow into the liquid storage tank 4 through the second drain port, reducing the amount of liquid in the second gas-liquid separation chamber and preventing the airflow from carrying liquid again and affecting the gas-liquid separation effect.

[0089] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, some embodiments may also have a first drain port in the first gas-liquid separation chamber and a second drain port in the second gas-liquid separation chamber; the liquid electrolyte after secondary separation enters the storage tank 4 together with the liquid electrolyte after primary separation; not only is complete gas-liquid separation achieved through secondary gas-liquid separation, but the electrolyte is also kept in the shell and the storage tank 4, solving the problem of smoke emission after thermal runaway of the battery pack.

[0090] In some embodiments, there are multiple gas-liquid separators 20, which are configured to correspond one-to-one with at least one side of multiple battery cells arranged sequentially in the battery pack. The housing of each gas-liquid separator 20 is sealed to the outer wall of the corresponding battery cell. The fluid inlet 25 of each gas-liquid separator 20 is configured to correspond to at least one explosion-proof valve 101 of the battery cell.

[0091] In this embodiment, the battery cells connected in series in the battery pack are divided into multiple cell units. Each cell unit is equipped with a separate gas-liquid separator 20, which can specifically separate the gas-liquid mixture discharged after thermal runaway of each cell unit, resulting in good gas-liquid separation reliability. Moreover, each gas-liquid separator 20 is a module, which is convenient for processing, transportation and installation.

[0092] Each cell group can include one cell 10, and the cells 10 in the battery pack are connected in parallel and multiple series; thus, each cell unit includes two cells 10, and each gas-liquid separator 20 is correspondingly set with two cells 10, such as... Figure 4 , Figures 12-14 As shown. Each cell group can also include multiple cells 10 connected in parallel, with the cells 10 connected in a multi-parallel-multi-series manner; for example, each cell group includes two cells 10 connected in parallel, and the cells 10 of the battery pack are connected in a two-parallel-multi-series manner; thus, each cell unit includes four cells 10, and each gas-liquid separator 20 is correspondingly set with four cells 10, such as... Figure 15 As shown.

[0093] Multiple gas-liquid separators 20, arranged according to their positions relative to the battery cell units in the battery pack, include a first-end separator, a middle-end separator, and a last-end separator. The first-end separator and the last-end separator are respectively positioned to correspond to the battery cell units at both ends of the battery pack, while the middle-end separator is positioned to correspond to the battery cell unit 10 located in the middle of the battery pack. Depending on the number of battery cell units, there may be only one middle-end separator, such as... Figure 12 As shown; there can be two, such as Figure 13 As shown; there can be three, such as Figure 14 As shown; other numbers are also possible. The number of separators can be flexibly configured according to the number of cells 10 and the series-parallel connection method of the cells 10, and may also include only the first separator and the last separator. In some embodiments, each cell unit includes a pair of first cell groups and second cell groups connected in series, the explosion-proof valves 101 of the first cell group and the second cell group are located on different sides of the cell unit; the first cell group and the second cell group each include one cell 10 or at least two cells 10 connected in parallel. This allows the first gas-liquid separation chambers of two adjacent gas-liquid separators 20 to be connected in series. Figures 4-11 As shown, a series channel is formed by connecting the overflow outlet 26 on the outlet side of the preceding gas-liquid separator 20 and the overflow inlet 29 on the inlet side of the following gas-liquid separator 20, thereby achieving multi-stage gas-liquid separation. This improves the gas-liquid separation effect and allows the gas-liquid mixture to be discharged into other gas-liquid separators 20 through the series channel, preventing the fluid outlet 28 of a single gas-liquid separator 20 from being insufficient to meet the flow rate of the gas-liquid mixture. Therefore, an overflow outlet 26 is provided on the outlet side of the first separator, such as... Figures 5-7 As shown; an overflow inlet 29 is provided on the inlet side of the final separator, such as Figures 10-11 As shown; the intermediate separator is equipped with an overflow outlet 26 on the outlet side and an overflow inlet 29 on the inlet side, as shown. Figures 8-9 As shown, the intermediate position separators have the same structure and can be modularly manufactured. The number of intermediate position separators can be increased or decreased according to the battery pack structure. In other embodiments, the explosion-proof valve 101 of the first cell group and the explosion-proof valve 101 of the second cell group can also be located on the same side of the cell unit.

[0094] In some embodiments, while multiple gas-liquid separators 20 achieve multi-stage gas-liquid separation, the gas-liquid mixture is further separated by the exhaust chute 3 to ensure the gas-liquid separation effect. This can achieve complete gas-liquid separation and the technical effect of exhausting gas without exhausting gas, thus solving the problem of large amounts of smoke emitted from the battery pack.

[0095] In some embodiments, the upper cover 1 of the housing of the entire gas-liquid separator 20 is a one-piece structure, such as... Figure 1As shown; it is easy to process and disassemble, and has good strength. The top cover 1 of the housing of each gas-liquid separator 20 can also be a separate structure.

[0096] In some embodiments, the liquid storage tanks 4 of all gas-liquid separators 20 are interconnected. Each gas-liquid separator 20 is provided with a liquid storage tank 4 and the tanks are interconnected, which can simultaneously meet the needs of collecting liquid electrolyte after thermal runaway of the battery cell 10 at different locations and the needs of collecting a large amount of electrolyte.

[0097] In some embodiments, the flow guide baffle 7 of each gas-liquid separator 20 can seal the gap between the first and second battery cell groups of the corresponding battery cell unit. The flow guide baffle 7 can be sealed to the outer walls of the first and second battery cell groups respectively, which can prevent the discharged gas-liquid mixture from flowing into the gap of the battery cell 10 and affecting the normal working performance of the battery cell 10. The flow guide baffle 7 can be a solid plate or a hollow plate, with the hollow part in the middle communicating with the gap between the battery cell groups.

[0098] This application also provides a battery pack, including multiple battery cells 10 and a gas-liquid separation device connected to the outlet of an explosion-proof valve 101 of the battery cells 10. The gas-liquid separation device is the same as the one provided in any of the above embodiments. It can solve the problem of excessive smoke emission after thermal runaway of the battery cells 10, reducing safety hazards. Its advantages are brought about by the gas-liquid separation device. For details, please refer to the relevant parts in the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here. For example, the battery pack can be blade-shaped, square, or other forms.

[0099] This application also provides a vehicle, including the gas-liquid separation device provided in any of the above embodiments or the battery pack provided in the above embodiments, wherein the battery pack includes the gas-liquid separation device provided in any of the above embodiments. This can solve the problem of excessive smoke emission after thermal runaway of the battery cell 10, reducing safety hazards; its advantages are brought about by the gas-liquid separation device, and for details, please refer to the relevant parts in the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0100] The basic principles of this application have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, it should be noted that the advantages, benefits, and effects mentioned in this application are merely examples and not limitations, and should not be considered as essential features of each embodiment of this application. Furthermore, the specific details of the above application are for illustrative and facilitative purposes only, and are not limitations. These details do not limit the application to the necessity of employing the aforementioned specific details for implementation.

[0101] The block diagrams of devices, apparatuses, devices, and systems involved in this application are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that they must be connected, arranged, or configured in the manner shown in the block diagrams. As those skilled in the art will recognize, these devices, apparatuses, devices, and systems can be connected, arranged, and configured in any manner. Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the claims and description should have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar words used in the patent application description and claims of this application do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. The terms "an" or "a" and similar words do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms "comprising" or "including" and similar words mean that the element or object preceding "comprising" or "including" encompasses the element or object listed following "comprising" or "including" and its equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. The terms "connected," "coupled," or "linked" and similar words are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, nor are they limited to direct or indirect connections. Words such as “including,” “contains,” and “has” are open-ended words that mean “including but not limited to” and can be used interchangeably with them.

[0102] In this application, the terms "or" and "and / or" describe the relationship between related objects and indicate a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, "A and / or B" and "A or B" can include: only "A" exists, only "B" exists, and both "A" and "B" exist simultaneously, where "A" and "B" can be singular or plural. As another example, "A, B, and / or C" and "A, B, or C" can include: only "A" exists, only "B" exists, only "C" exists, both "A" and "B" exist simultaneously, both "A" and "C" exist simultaneously, both "B" and "C" exist simultaneously, and both "A", "B", and "C" exist simultaneously, where "A", "B", and "C" can be singular or plural. Furthermore, the symbol " / " in this application indicates an "or" relationship between the related objects before and after the symbol. In this application, the term "at least one A or B" has the same meaning as the aforementioned "A or B". The term "at least one A, B or C" has the same meaning as "A, B or C" above.

[0103] In the apparatus and equipment of this application, the components can be disassembled and / or reassembled. These disassemblies and / or reassemblies should be considered as equivalent solutions of this application.

[0104] The above description of the claimed aspects is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use this application. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects without departing from the scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but rather to be applied within the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features of this application.

[0105] The above description has been given for illustrative and descriptive purposes. Furthermore, this description is not intended to limit the embodiments of this application to the forms described herein. Although numerous exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those skilled in the art will recognize certain variations, modifications, alterations, additions, and sub-combinations thereof.

Claims

1. A gas-liquid separation device, characterized in that, Includes at least one gas-liquid separator, said gas-liquid separator comprising: The housing is provided with a first gas-liquid separation chamber, which has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The fluid inlet is used to seal and connect with the outer wall of the battery cell and communicate with the outlet of the battery cell's explosion-proof valve. The fluid outlet is used to discharge gas. A first gas-liquid separation component is used to separate the gas-liquid mixture into gas and liquid components, and the first gas-liquid separation component is disposed in the first gas-liquid separation chamber; The first gas-liquid separation component includes: The first liquid-absorbing structure is used to adsorb liquid; The first filter plate is capable of separating the gas-liquid mixture by deflection. The first filter plate is disposed on at least one side of the front flow side and the back flow side of the first liquid absorption structure. The first filter plate is provided with a plurality of first through holes for fluid to pass through.

2. The gas-liquid separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first filter plate can change the gas flow direction in the first gas-liquid separation chamber to cause centrifugal separation of the gas-liquid mixture. The first filter plate divides the first gas-liquid separation chamber into a first fluid chamber and a first liquid collection chamber. The first through hole connects the first fluid chamber and the first liquid collection chamber. The first liquid suction structure is disposed in the first liquid collection chamber. The fluid inlet and the fluid outlet are both disposed in the first fluid chamber.

3. The gas-liquid separation device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first filter plate is arc-shaped, and its inner circumferential surface faces the first fluid cavity; The gas-liquid separator further includes a flow guide baffle for promoting fluid flow toward the position of the first filter plate. The flow guide baffle divides the first fluid cavity into a first channel and a second channel. There is a flow gap between the flow guide baffle and the first filter plate, and the flow gap connects the first channel and the second channel. The fluid inlet is located at the end of the first channel that is furthest from the second channel; The fluid outlet is located at the end of the second channel away from the first channel.

4. The gas-liquid separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing includes a bottom shell with an upper opening and an upper cover that is removably sealed to the upper opening.

5. The gas-liquid separation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas-liquid separator also includes: An exhaust chute is connected to the bottom of the housing. The exhaust chute is provided with a second gas-liquid separation chamber. The second gas-liquid separation chamber has an air inlet and an exhaust outlet. The air inlet is connected to the fluid outlet, and the exhaust outlet is connected to the outside. The second gas-liquid separation component is used to perform secondary gas-liquid separation on the gas-liquid mixture, and the second gas-liquid separation component is disposed in the second gas-liquid separation chamber.

6. The gas-liquid separation device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second gas-liquid separation component includes: The second filter plate is capable of baffled separation of gas-liquid mixture. The second filter plate divides the second gas-liquid separation chamber into a second fluid chamber and a second liquid collection chamber. The second liquid collection chamber is located below the second fluid chamber. The second filter plate is provided with a plurality of second through holes that connect the second fluid chamber and the second liquid collection chamber. The air inlet and the exhaust outlet are respectively located at both ends of the second fluid chamber. The second liquid absorption structure is used to absorb liquid, and the second liquid absorption structure is disposed in the second liquid collection chamber.

7. The gas-liquid separation device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The exhaust chute extends downward from the bottom of the housing near the battery cell to the bottom of the housing away from the battery cell; The exhaust chute is curved downwards; the second filter plate is capable of centrifugally separating the gas-liquid mixture.

8. The gas-liquid separation device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The gas-liquid separator also includes a liquid storage tank disposed below the housing; The first gas-liquid separation chamber has a first drain port, which is located at the bottom of the housing and connected to the liquid storage tank via a drain pipe; and / or, the second gas-liquid separation chamber has a second drain port, which is located at the bottom of the exhaust chute and connected to the liquid storage tank.

9. The gas-liquid separation device according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The gas-liquid separator is provided in multiple ways, and is configured to correspond one-to-one with at least one side of the multiple battery cells arranged in sequence in the battery pack. The housing of each gas-liquid separator is respectively sealed to the outer wall of the corresponding battery cell. The fluid inlet of each gas-liquid separator is provided to correspond to at least one explosion-proof valve of the battery cell.

10. The gas-liquid separation device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first gas-liquid separation chambers of two adjacent gas-liquid separators are connected in series. And / or, the top cover of the housing of all the gas-liquid separators is a one-piece structure; And / or, the liquid storage compartments of all the gas-liquid separators are interconnected; And / or, the flow guide baffle of each of the gas-liquid separators can close the gap between the first and second battery cell groups of the corresponding battery cell unit.

11. A battery pack, characterized in that, The device includes multiple battery cells and a gas-liquid separation device connected to the outlet of an explosion-proof valve of the battery cells, wherein the gas-liquid separation device is the gas-liquid separation device as described in any one of claims 1-10.

12. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the gas-liquid separation device as described in any one of claims 1-10 or the battery pack as described in claim 11.

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