Battery cell for vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a battery cell (10) comprising a housing (20) having an inner wall (21), a first battery terminal (30) and a second battery terminal (40), the battery cell (10) further comprising an electrode assembly (11) having a first electrode (13) having a first current collector (14) electrically connected to the first terminal (30) and a second electrode (15) having a second current collector (15) electrically connected to the second terminal (40), the second electrode (15) has a second current collector (16) electrically connected to the second terminal (40), the second current collector (16) being configured to have a variable height along an extension axis (h) of the case (20), the variable height varying based on a temperature of the electrode assembly (11), and the second current collector (16) being slidable relative to the case (20) along the extension axis (h).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery cells and vehicles including battery cells having multiple battery cells. Background Technology

[0002] Battery cells are critical components in battery electric vehicles (BEVs), storing energy and providing traction via an electric motor. Therefore, battery cells significantly impact vehicle performance, efficiency, and manufacturing costs. In addition to providing traction, battery cells are integrated as structural elements, contributing to overall net positive stiffness and strength. Due to their structural integration, battery cells experience thermal and mechanical loads throughout their lifespan. Therefore, it is important to design and develop battery cells taking all prior considerations into account to deliver and improve performance attributes while reducing manufacturing costs and complexity.

[0003] Battery cell production is a multi-step process that requires significant investment in production equipment to meet quality, yield, and cost targets. Many internal components of a battery cell are welded together to form a functional cell. Welding is a conventional and proven assembly method, but it is also time- and resource-intensive. For example, the process must be repeatedly tested and adjusted to achieve the desired quality, requiring regular quality control to ensure specifications are met and ongoing maintenance for correction and adjustment.

[0004] As a result, there is an increasing need for alternative cell design and assembly methods to simplify the manufacturing process while improving performance. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The aforementioned problems may need to be addressed or mitigated, at least in part, through the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0006] According to a first aspect, a battery cell is provided, the battery cell including a housing having an inner wall, a first battery terminal and a second battery terminal, the battery cell further including an electrode assembly having a first electrode and a second electrode, the first electrode having a first current collector electrically connected to the first terminal, the second electrode having a second current collector electrically connected to the second terminal, the second current collector being configured to have a variable height along an extension axis of the housing, the variable height being varying based on the thermal load of the electrode assembly, and the second current collector being slidable relative to the housing along the extension axis.

[0007] A number of battery cells that can be electrically connected to each other can form a battery cell. A number of battery cells or battery cells can form a battery. A battery cell includes a housing. For example, the housing can be an outer shell or container, such as a can that can enclose the internal components of the battery cell to provide structural support and protection. An inner wall can refer to the inner surface of the housing. For example, the inner wall of the housing can also be an additional inner wall disposed within the housing. A battery cell also includes an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly includes a first electrode and a second electrode. The electrodes can include materials such as lithium, graphite, or metal oxides. The first electrode can be a different electrode from the second electrode. One electrode can be a negative electrode, and the other electrode can be a positive electrode. A battery cell also includes a first current collector and a second current collector. These can include one or more conductive materials. The first and second current collectors can be configured to collect and distribute current generated during charge and discharge cycles. A battery cell also includes a first battery terminal and a second battery terminal for electrically connecting the battery cell, for example, in series or parallel, to another battery cell. The electrode assembly may also include an electrolyte. The electrolyte can facilitate ion movement between the electrodes during charge and discharge cycles, thereby enabling the flow of current. Furthermore, an isolator can be provided between the first and second electrodes to prevent direct contact and short circuits, while allowing ions to pass through during operation. The electrode material and isolator can be part of the electrode assembly inside the housing, which can be, for example, jelly roll type.

[0008] The second current collector is capable of sliding relative to the inner wall of the housing along its extension axis. Sliding may mean that the second current collector can be fitted into the housing in a sliding or sliding manner. Specifically, the contact portion of the second current collector with the inner wall of the housing can be slidably connected to the housing. The second current collector can have a spring-like or similar form that allows for changes in its configuration. For example, the second current collector can be configured to have a variable height along the extension axis of the housing, or in other words, it can be configured to contract or extract when exposed to, for example, forces. Such forces may be due to the expansion or retraction of the electrode assembly. For example, the variable height can vary based on the thermal load on the electrode assembly or other internal loads generated by processes within the electrode assembly. Therefore, the second current collector can facilitate, for example, the extraction or contraction movement of the electrode assembly. By allowing the electrode assembly to expand or contract, the battery cell can better respond to changes in, for example, thermal load, pressure, or other environmental factors. This can improve the performance and overall lifespan of the battery cell by allowing it to dynamically adapt to different operating conditions. Additionally, the second current collector can allow the absorption of forces caused by shocks, vibrations, etc.

[0009] The second current collector can be held in place by, for example, a force applied by surrounding components. During the manufacturing process of the battery cell, the electrode assembly, including the first and second current collectors, can be assembled into the battery cell housing. The bottom portion of the housing can be crimped, allowing the second current collector to move upward in the vertical direction or along the extended axis of the housing, thereby generating a force to ensure, for example, contact between the first current collector and the first terminal, and between the second current collector and the second terminal. The force applied by the surrounding components can be, for example, a compressive force. This may mean, for example, that the second current collector can be held in place between the second electrode and the second terminal, or clamped between the second electrode and the second terminal. Other fixing methods, such as welding or crimping the second current collector to the housing, may not be necessary. Furthermore, because there may always be a force acting on the second current collector, it can be ensured that the second current collector is always electrically connected to the battery housing and the second terminal, for example, during height changes. For example, this may mean that the second current collector may be under tension or subjected to compressive force. In summary, the second current collector can be connected by assembling it into the housing. Additionally, the second current collector can slide freely along the main vertical axis. This eliminates the need for welding or crimping processes, reducing manufacturing costs and simplifying assembly. The second current collector further ensures electrical contact with the housing, creating a conductive connection. The second current collector also allows the electrode assembly to move freely in the vertical direction, or to be withdrawn and retracted, thus generating a damping effect and improving, for example, durability and overall lifespan.

[0010] In one example, the second current collector may include an edge portion that is force-fitted to an inner portion of the inner wall of the housing. The edge portion can refer to the outer portion or edge of the second current collector, which can directly contact the inner wall of the housing to ensure, for example, conductivity. Alternatively, the edge portion can slidably contact the inner wall of the housing. This may mean that the edge portion can be configured to slide or slide along the inner surface of the housing when a force is applied along the extended axis of the housing. For example, such sliding contact can allow flexibility and adaptability within the battery cell, such as expansion or contraction due to temperature changes or other environmental factors. A force-fit can refer to a connection method in which components are joined together by friction or interference fit without the need for additional fasteners, such as screws, adhesives, or welded parts. For example, the second current collector can be assembled in the battery cell such that it is held in place by the inner wall of the battery housing. Alternatively, a force-fit can mean that the second current collector is additionally held in place by compressive force. The compressive force described above can be applied, for example, by clamping the second current collector between the second electrode and the second terminal. This eliminates the need for additional fasteners, welding, or crimping processes, which reduces manufacturing costs and simplifies the assembly process.

[0011] In one example, the edge portion is capable of sliding along the inner portion of the inner wall. For instance, the ability to slide could mean that the second current collector has a degree of mobility or adjustability relative to the inner portion of the inner wall along the extension axis of the housing. This degree of mobility could refer to all portions of the second current collector that can directly contact the inner wall of the housing. For example, the edge portion could have a contact area with a side portion of the inner wall. Therefore, when the second current collector expands or contracts, the edge portion slides along the side of the inner wall. As the second current collector moves along the inner wall, it may encounter frictional forces between its edge portion and the inner wall surface. These forces can counteract the mobility of the current collector and can vary depending on factors such as surface roughness and material properties. Therefore, the second current collector can have a smooth surface that reduces friction. This allows for more efficient absorption of the extraction and contraction forces of the battery assembly.

[0012] In one example, the second current collector may include at least one spring element electrically connected to the second terminal, wherein the at least one spring element may be configured to have a variable height that varies based on the temperature of the electrode assembly. For example, the variable height may be further based on temperature or other internal loads such as thermal loads generated by processes within the electrode assembly. For example, the at least one spring element and the second current collector may be formed as a single piece. For example, the at least one spring element may include a bent portion capable of bending or absorbing forces. In particular, when the battery cell experiences thermal stress, it may expand and thus exert a force or compressive force on the second current collector. The at least one spring element may be slidably connected to the second terminal. The second current collector may be configured to absorb forces because its bent portion can bend in response to the force. Additionally, since the at least one spring element may be slidably in contact with the bottom of the housing or the second terminal, the force or compressive force may be converted into, for example, frictional force. In particular, the at least one spring element may convert compressive force into, for example, sliding or slipping motion.

[0013] Furthermore, the curved portion can be constructed in such a way that, for example, when the compressive force decreases, the curved portion pushes the current collector back to its initial position. In other words, the second current collector can allow the movement of the electrode assembly to be damped. This can help improve the durability and lifespan of the battery cell by reducing mechanical load.

[0014] In one example, at least one spring element may be circumferentially arranged at the edge portion of the second current collector. Circumferential arrangement can mean that the spring element can extend along the circumference or outer edge of the second current collector. For example, by circumferentially arranging at least one spring element at the edge portion of the second current collector, vertical forces can be absorbed very effectively. This allows vertical forces to be distributed over a particularly wide surface area, which can increase, for example, the durability of the current collector. Simultaneously, by circumferentially arranging at least one spring element at the edge portion of the second current collector, the spring element can, for example, establish an electrical connection to the housing.

[0015] In one example, at least one spring element may be generally U-shaped or C-shaped. A U-shape or C-shape means that the spring element may have a generally U-shaped or C-shaped profile in a side view of the second current collector. The U-shaped or C-shaped recess may have a curved profile resembling a partial circle or arc, with an open end and a closed end. At least one spring element may include a curved portion that extends in a curved manner, thereby providing it with a U-shape or C-shape. The U-shape or C-shape of at least one spring element allows the height of the second current collector to vary along the extension axis of the housing. The curved or curved portion of the spring element can facilitate force distribution, minimize stress concentration, and improve durability. It is conceivable that the central portion includes, for example, one or more recesses.

[0016] In one example, the second current collector may include two or more spring elements. The number of spring elements can vary depending on the specific requirements and constraints of the battery cell application. For example, several spring elements may be provided circumferentially arranged at the edge portions of the second current collector. For example, two, preferably six, and more preferably eight spring elements may be provided. More spring elements are conceivable depending on the specific requirements and constraints of the battery cell application. The more spring elements that can be provided, the more flexible the second current collector can be, for example. This increased flexibility allows the second current collector to better adapt to changes in temperature, pressure, and other environmental factors or loads of electrical components. As a result, the battery cell can become more robust and able to maintain stable performance under a range of operating conditions. In addition, the presence of more spring elements can help distribute forces more evenly, thereby reducing stress on individual components and potentially extending the overall lifespan of the battery cell. In other cases, reducing the number of spring elements may be beneficial. For example, if the battery cell design requires greater rigidity or stability under certain conditions, fewer spring elements, such as two, may be preferred. In addition, fewer spring elements can simplify the manufacturing process and reduce production costs associated with component manufacturing and assembly.

[0017] In one example, the second current collector may include at least two recesses disposed between two or more spring elements. The number of recesses can be variable. For example, two, preferably six, more preferably eight recesses may be provided. More recesses are conceivable. At least two recesses may be circumferentially disposed at the edge portion of the second current collector. The more recesses provided, the more flexible the second current collector may be. The dimensions of the at least two recesses may vary depending on the specific design requirements and performance objectives of the battery cell. For example, larger recesses may allow for greater movement and flexibility of the collector, while smaller recesses may provide greater stability and support. Larger or smaller may refer to the diameter of the recess and / or its location. For example, at least two recesses may be circumferentially disposed at the edge portion of the second current collector and extend to the center portion of the second current collector. For example, this may result in a more flexible spring element. At least two recesses may be circumferentially disposed at the edge portion of the second current collector and extend to the curved portion of the spring element. For example, this may result in a more rigid spring element. Any other size, diameter, or location of the recesses is conceivable.

[0018] In one example, at least two recesses are substantially C-shaped or U-shaped. C-shaped or U-shaped can mean that the spring element in the top view of the second current collector may have a generally U-shaped or C-shaped profile. The C-shaped or U-shaped recesses may have a curved profile resembling a partial circle or arc, with an open end and a closed end. Recesses with C-shaped or U-shaped features can form C-shaped or U-shaped spring elements. Recesses may have other shapes, such as rectangular, circular, elliptical, or irregular shapes. Therefore, it is conceivable that the recesses have, for example, a completely closed profile.

[0019] In one example, the central portion of the second current collector may coincide with at least 50% of the coupling surface of the second electrode. The second current collector may be electrically connected to the second electrode. The central portion of the second current collector may, for example, refer to the coupling portion of the second electrode. This consistency ensures effective electrical contact between the second current collector and the second electrode. Furthermore, at least 50% consistency ensures, for example, uniform or uniform transmission of vertical forces acting on the second current collector. The coupling surface of the second current collector may substantially coincide with the coupling surface of the second electrode.

[0020] In one example, the first current collector can be substantially flat in height and in width along the extension axis of the housing, the width of which can be perpendicular to the extension axis of the housing. By using a second current collector with variable height, the first current collector can have a constant height extending along the extension axis or longitudinally of the housing and across its width; in other words, the first current collector can be designed to be substantially flat in height. For example, the substantially flat height of the first current collector can provide an increased cell volume that can be used for active materials. For example, this additional space can be used to increase the amount of active material as an electrolyte. By increasing the amount of electrolyte, the capacity of the cell can be improved. This can also improve the overall performance of the cell. Furthermore, for example, the amount of material used within the cell can be reduced, thereby reducing the cost and weight of the cell. Furthermore, for example, the substantially flat profile of the first current collector can help optimize the arrangement of components within the cell. The first current collector can have a maximum height of 3 mm or less in its height extension or along the longitudinal extension of the housing.

[0021] In one example, the first current collector can be laser-welded or riveted to the first electrode, and the second current collector can be clamped between the electrode assembly and the second battery terminal. Laser welding can be used to establish a precise connection between the current collector and the electrode. This can provide a low-resistance connection between the current collector and the electrode, thereby ensuring effective conductivity within the battery cell. However, laser welding can be labor-intensive and therefore expensive. The second current collector can be held in place by forces applied by surrounding components, or in other words, clamped. Other fixing methods, such as welding or crimping the second current collector to the housing, may not be necessary. Therefore, clamping the second current collector provides sufficient mechanical stability to ensure an electrical connection without requiring labor-intensive methods such as laser welding.

[0022] In one example, the housing can be cylindrical, and the housing can have electrode assemblies, which can be jelly roll-shaped. In other words, the outer housing or casing surrounding the electrode assembly of the battery cell can be cylindrical. This can provide efficient space utilization, ease of manufacture, and compatibility with various applications such as cylindrical battery packs. The electrode assembly can be jelly roll-shaped. A jelly roll refers to an electrode material configuration in which electrode material and insulating material are rolled together to form a cylindrical shape. This rolling process allows for efficient encapsulation of the electrode material and maximizes the surface area available for electrochemical reactions while maintaining a compact design.

[0023] In one example, the second current collector can be substantially disc-shaped. "Substantially disc-shaped" can mean that the second current collector can have a shape similar to a disc or circular object with U-shaped or C-shaped rim portions as described above. The disc shape can simultaneously provide spring-like characteristics while ensuring electrical connection with the housing.

[0024] According to a second aspect, a vehicle including a battery cell is provided, the battery cell having a plurality of battery cells according to a first aspect of this disclosure. The vehicle can be of any type, such as a hybrid electric vehicle or a battery electric vehicle. The battery cell can be of any type, such as a traction battery cell or a high-voltage battery.

[0025] Note that the aspects, examples, and features mentioned above can be combined with each other, regardless of the aspects involved.

[0026] The foregoing and other aspects of this disclosure will become apparent and clear with reference to the examples described below.

[0027] As used herein, the phrase “at least one” in relation to a list of one or more entities should be understood to mean at least one entity selected from any one or more entities in the entity list, but not necessarily including at least one of each entity specifically listed in the entity list, and does not exclude any combination of entities in the entity list. This definition also allows an entity to optionally exist outside of the entities specifically identified in the entity list referred to by the phrase “at least one,” whether related to or not related to those specifically identified entities. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or equivalently, “at least one of A or B”, or equivalently, “at least one of A and / or B”) could in one example mean at least one A, optionally including more than one A, with no B (and optionally including entities other than B); in another example, it could mean at least one B, optionally including more than one B, with no A (and optionally including entities other than A); and in yet another example, it could mean at least one A, optionally including more than one A, and at least one B, optionally including more than one B (and optionally including other entities). In other words, the phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” and “and / or” are open-ended expressions that are both connected and separate in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” and “A, B, and / or C” can mean a single A, a single B, a single C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, A, B, and C together, and optionally any of the above combined with at least one other entity.

[0028] Based on an examination of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement other variations of the disclosed examples in practice with respect to the claimed disclosure. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude multiple. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Examples of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the following figures.

[0030] Figure 1 A perspective view of a battery cell according to this disclosure is shown;

[0031] Figure 2 Another perspective view of a battery cell according to this disclosure is shown;

[0032] Figures 3A-3B A cross-sectional view of a battery cell according to the present disclosure is shown, the battery cell including a highly variable second current collector;

[0033] Figure 4 A second current collector according to this disclosure is shown; and

[0034] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a vehicle comprising a battery cell having multiple individual battery cells, according to the present disclosure, is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The accompanying drawings are merely schematic representations and are intended to illustrate this disclosure only. Identical or equivalent elements generally have the same reference numerals.

[0036] The designation of elements and steps as first, second, etc., as provided herein, is intended only to allow for reference and distinction between elements and steps. The designation of elements and steps in no way constitutes a limitation on the scope of this disclosure. For example, when this disclosure describes a third step of a method, the first or second step of the method need not exist independently prior to the third step, unless they are explicitly stated to be necessary in themselves or precede the third step. Furthermore, the presentation of elements or steps in a particular order is merely intended to facilitate one example of this disclosure and in no way constitutes a limitation on the scope of this disclosure. Generally, steps may be performed in any feasible order unless explicitly required.

[0037] Figure 1A battery cell according to the present disclosure is shown. The battery cell 10 includes a housing 20, which in this example is cylindrical. The housing 20 includes an inner wall 21, a first battery terminal 30, and a second battery terminal 40 opposite to the first battery terminal 30. The battery cell 10 also includes an electrode assembly 11. The electrode assembly 11 includes a first electrode 13 and a second electrode 15, the first electrode 13 having a first current collector 14 electrically connected to the first battery terminal 30, and the second electrode 15 having a second current collector 16 electrically connected to the second battery terminal 40. The second current collector 16 has a disc shape and is fitted into the housing 20 of the battery cell 10. The second current collector 16 is in electrical contact with the inner wall 21 of the housing. The second current collector 16 can be further held in place by a force applied by surrounding components, or in other words, can be clamped. In this example, the second current collector 16 is held in place or clamped between the second electrode 15 and the second terminal 40. Additionally, the second current collector 16 is laterally held in place by the inner wall 21 of the housing 20. No other fixing methods, such as welding or crimping the second current collector to the housing, are required.

[0038] Figure 2 A perspective view, particularly a side view, of a battery cell 10 according to the present disclosure is shown. For simplicity, terminals 30, 40, and housing 20 are omitted. The battery cell 10 includes an electrode assembly 11 having a first electrode 13 and a second electrode 15. The first electrode 13 has a first current collector 14, and the second electrode 15 has a second current collector 16, which is configured to have a variable height along an extending axis h of the housing 20. In this example, the second current collector 16 includes a plurality of spring elements 16d circumferentially arranged at an edge portion 16b of the second current collector 16, wherein the spring elements 16d have a generally U-shape or C-shape. The U-shape or C-shape of at least one spring element 16d allows the height of the second current collector 16 to vary along the extending axis h of the housing 20.

[0039] Figure 3A and 3B The diagram shows a second current collector 16 with highly variable current. Figure 2 10 battery cells. Figure 3AA first exemplary scenario is shown, in which the second current collector 16 can allow its height to be dynamically adjusted to accommodate temperature changes within the battery cell 10. In this scenario, the temperature within the battery cell 10 decreases due to, for example, external climatic conditions. This could be because the vehicle 1, which includes the battery cell 10, may be exposed to cold conditions, such as temperatures below 0°C. Due to exposure to cold conditions, the electrode assembly 11 may contract. This contraction applies a force or tension within the battery cell 10. Because the height of the second current collector 16 in this example is variable, it can extend in the longitudinal direction or along the extension axis h, thereby compensating for the contraction force. In another example, as... Figure 3B As shown, the battery cell 10 of vehicle 1 may be exposed to elevated temperatures, for example, due to exposure to hot climatic conditions, such as temperatures above 30°C or similar conditions, and / or due to high utilization conditions of battery cell 2 or similar conditions. In this scenario, the elevated temperature of the battery cell 10 causes the electrode assembly 11 to expand, which applies force or pressure within the battery cell 10. Because the height of the second current collector 16 along the extension axis h is variable, it can be compressed and thus compensate for the pressure within the battery cell 10. Figure 3A and Figure 3B These examples of extension or compression of the second current collector 16 are for illustrative purposes only. All intermediate positions of the second current collector 16 are possible depending on climate or operating conditions. The second current collector 16 may further be designed, at least in part, as a spring for changing its height.

[0040] Figure 4A second current collector 16 according to the present disclosure is shown. The second current collector 16 may include one or more conductive materials. In this example, the second current collector 16 may be of the copper type. Other materials may be contemplated, for example, aluminum, nickel, conductive polymers, or carbon-based materials. The center of the second current collector 16 is formed by a central portion 16a. The central portion 16a may be, for example, a coupling portion coupled to a second electrode 15. The second current collector 16 includes eight spring elements 16d circumferentially arranged at the central portion 16a. However, it is also contemplated that the spring elements 16d may be arranged at edge portions 16b of the second current collector 16. The second current collector 16 is formed integrally. However, it is contemplated that the current collector 16 may be constituted by, for example, separate components. For example, it is also possible that different components are constituted by different materials. In this view, the spring elements 16d have a curved profile similar to a partial circle or arc, having an open end and a closed end, or in other words, having a generally U-shaped or C-shaped profile. The second current collector 16 includes eight recesses 16c circumferentially arranged at the central portion 16a of the second current collector 16. The recesses 16c may define the shape of the spring elements 16d. For example, a larger recess 16c can result in a larger spring element 16d that allows for greater movement and flexibility of the second current collector 16. A smaller recess 16c can result in a smaller spring element 16b that can provide greater stability and support for the second current collector 16. For example, larger or smaller can refer to the diameter and / or location and / or shape of the recess 16c. In this example, the recess 16c has a C-shape or a U-shape and forms a C-shaped or U-shaped spring element 16d. The recess 16c can have other shapes, such as rectangular, circular, elliptical, or irregular shapes. Thus, it is conceivable that the recess 16c has a completely closed profile. It is also conceivable that the recess 16c has a different shape from the spring element 16d.

[0041] Figure 5 A vehicle 1 according to the present disclosure is shown, comprising a battery cell 2 having three battery cells 10.

[0042] List of reference numerals

[0043] 1. Vehicle

[0044] 2. Battery Unit

[0045] 10. Battery cell

[0046] 11. Electrode Assembly

[0047] 13. First electrode

[0048] 14. First current collector

[0049] 15. Second electrode

[0050] 16. Second current collector

[0051] 16a. Central part

[0052] 16b. Edge portion

[0053] 16c. Groove

[0054] 16d. Spring element

[0055] 20. Shell

[0056] 21. Inner wall

[0057] 30. First battery terminal

[0058] 40. Second battery terminal

[0059] h. Extended axis

Claims

1. A battery cell (10) comprising a housing (20) having an inner wall (21), a first battery terminal (30) and a second battery terminal (40), the battery cell (10) further comprising an electrode assembly (11) having a first electrode (13) and a second electrode (15), the first electrode (13) having a first current collector (14) electrically connected to the first terminal (30), the second electrode (15) having a second current collector (16) electrically connected to the second terminal (40), the second current collector (16) being configured to have a variable height along an extension axis (h) of the housing (20), the variable height being varying based on the thermal load of the electrode assembly (11), and the second current collector (16) being slidable relative to the housing (20) along the extension axis (h).

2. The battery cell (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The second current collector (16) includes an edge portion (16b) of the inner portion of the inner wall (21) of the housing (20) press-fitted into it.

3. The battery cell (10) according to claim 2, wherein, The edge portion (16b) is capable of sliding on the inner portion of the inner wall (21).

4. The battery cell (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The second current collector (16) includes at least one spring element (16d) electrically connected to the second terminal (40), wherein the at least one spring element (16d) is configured to have a variable height that varies based on the temperature of the electrode assembly (11).

5. The battery cell (10) according to claim 4, wherein, The at least one spring element (16d) is arranged circumferentially at the edge portion (16b) of the second current collector (16).

6. The battery cell (10) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The at least one spring element (16d) is generally U-shaped or C-shaped along the extension axis of the housing (20).

7. The battery cell (10) according to any one of claims 4-6, wherein, The second current collector (16) includes two or more spring elements (16d).

8. The battery cell (10) according to claim 7, wherein, The second current collector (16) includes at least two recesses (16c) arranged between the two or more spring elements (16d).

9. The battery cell (10) according to claim 8, wherein, The at least two recesses (16c) are generally C-shaped or U-shaped.

10. The battery cell (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The region of the central portion (16a) of the second current collector (16) coincides with at least 50% of the region of the coupling surface of the second electrode (15).

11. The battery cell (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first current collector (14) is substantially flat in height and in width along the longitudinal extension of the housing (20), the width extension being perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the housing (20).

12. The battery cell (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first current collector (14) is laser welded or riveted to the first electrode (13), and the second current collector (16) is sandwiched between the electrode assembly (11) and the second battery terminal (40).

13. The battery cell (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (20) is cylindrical and the housing (20) has an electrode assembly (11) that is jelly roll shaped.

14. The battery cell (10) according to claim 13, wherein, The second current collector (16) is basically disc-shaped.

15. A vehicle (1) comprising a battery cell (2) having a plurality of battery cells (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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