Battery module and energy storage equipment

Abstract

The invention provides a battery module and energy storage equipment, the battery module comprises a first wall, a second wall, a battery cell group, a first component and a second component, and the first wall and the second wall are arranged at an interval along a first direction; the battery cell group is positioned between the first wall and the second wall, and comprises a first battery cell unit group and a second battery cell unit group which are arranged at an interval along a second direction; in the third direction, the first component and the second component are located on the two sides of the battery cell group, the first component is connected with the first wall and the second wall respectively, and the second component is connected with the first wall and the second wall respectively; the first battery cell unit group, the second battery cell unit group, the first component and the second component serve as at least part of components for forming a first exhaust channel, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to one another; the first wall is provided with a second exhaust channel, and the first exhaust channel is communicated with the second exhaust channel.

Description

Battery modules and energy storage devices Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and more specifically, to a battery module and energy storage device. Background Technology

[0002] When battery modules are used under conditions such as high rate, no rest, and continuous charging and discharging, the temperature of the battery cells will rise, and the cells may release pressure and generate gas, which will affect the safety of the battery module. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a battery module and energy storage device to improve the safety of the battery module.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a battery module, including a first wall and a second wall, a cell group, a first component and a second component, wherein the first wall and the second wall are spaced apart along a first direction; the cell group is located between the first wall and the second wall, and the cell group includes a first cell unit group and a second cell unit group arranged spaced apart along a second direction; along a third direction, the first component and the second component are located on both sides of the cell group, the first component is connected to the first wall and the second wall respectively, and the second component is connected to the first wall and the second wall respectively; the first cell unit group and the second cell unit group, the first component and the second component serve as at least part of the components forming a first exhaust channel, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other; wherein, the first wall is provided with a second exhaust channel, and the first exhaust channel and the second exhaust channel are connected.

[0005] The first wall, the second wall, the first component, and the second component serve to fix and support the first and second battery cell unit assemblies. When the temperature of the cells in the first and second battery cell unit assemblies becomes too high or the internal pressure becomes too great, and pressure relief is required through the pressure relief mechanism, the discharged gas can enter the first exhaust channel and further exit through the second exhaust channel connected to the first exhaust channel. This achieves pressure relief of the battery module, reduces the possibility of the cell temperature continuing to rise or even being ignited, reduces the possibility of excessive internal temperature and pressure within the battery module or even an explosion, reduces the impact on other devices connected to the battery module, and improves the safety of the battery module in use.

[0006] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first cell unit group and the second cell unit group, the first component and the second component form a first venting channel. This shortens the pressure relief path and further improves the safety performance of the battery module.

[0007] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, a first connecting port is provided on the first wall, and at least a portion of the first connecting port and the first exhaust channel are arranged opposite each other along the first direction. After the gas discharged from the first battery cell group and the second battery cell group enters the first exhaust channel, it directly enters the second exhaust channel through the first connecting port to realize the gas discharge. Moreover, the gas depressurization path is shorter, which improves the depressurization speed of the battery module and thus improves the heat dissipation effect of the battery module.

[0008] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first exhaust channel extends along a first direction, and the second exhaust channel extends along a second direction. Gas flows in the first exhaust channel along the first direction, quickly enters the second exhaust channel, and flows in the second direction and is discharged within the second exhaust channel. The pressure relief speed of the battery module is relatively fast, further reducing the possibility of excessive internal temperature, excessive internal pressure, or even explosion of the battery module, and further improving the safety of the battery module in use.

[0009] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first cell unit group includes a plurality of first cell units arranged along a first direction. Each first cell unit includes a first cell, and the first cell includes a first pressure relief section located on the side of the first cell closer to the second cell. After the first pressure relief section is opened, the gas discharged from the first cell directly enters the first exhaust channel, thereby accelerating the exhaust speed and further improving the safety of the battery module.

[0010] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the second cell unit group includes a plurality of second cell units arranged along the first direction. Each second cell unit includes a second cell, and the second cell includes a second pressure relief section located on the side of the second cell closer to the first cell. When the second pressure relief section is opened, the gas discharged from the second cell directly enters the first exhaust channel, thereby accelerating the exhaust speed and further improving the safety of the battery module.

[0011] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first component includes a first recess, a first connecting portion, and a second connecting portion. Along a third direction, the projection of the first connecting portion overlaps with the projection of each first battery cell, and the projection of the second connecting portion overlaps with the projection of each second battery cell. At least a portion of the first recess is located between the first pressure relief portion and the second pressure relief portion. The first recess can prevent some of the pressure released from the first pressure relief portion from impacting the second battery cell, and can also prevent some of the pressure released from the second pressure relief portion from impacting the first battery cell, reducing the possibility of mutual interference when the first and second battery cell unit groups malfunction. This helps to mitigate the possibility of overall battery module malfunctions and improves the safety of the battery module.

[0012] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first battery cell includes a first battery cell housing and a first electrode terminal. The first battery cell housing includes a first main body portion and a first sealing portion. The first electrode terminal extends out of the first battery cell housing from the first sealing portion. The first pressure relief portion includes the first sealing portion.

[0013] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the second battery cell includes a second battery cell housing, the second battery cell housing includes a second body portion, a second sealing portion and a second electrode terminal, the second electrode terminal extends out of the second battery cell housing from the second sealing portion, and the second pressure relief portion includes the second sealing portion.

[0014] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, each first battery cell unit includes a first battery cell and a first bracket connected to the first battery cell. A first component is connected to each first bracket, and a second component is connected to each first bracket. When part of the first battery cell is subjected to force, the first bracket is subjected to force before the first battery cell, thus protecting the first battery cell. The first component and the second component fix the first battery cell through the first bracket.

[0015] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first bracket and the first battery cell are integrally formed, and the first bracket covers at least a portion of the first main body. This improves the connection strength between the first bracket and the first battery cell.

[0016] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first support includes a first sub-support and a second sub-support, the first cell housing includes two first sealing portions, the first sub-support covers at least a portion of one of the first sealing portions, and the second sub-support covers at least a portion of the other first sealing portion.

[0017] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first sealing portion includes a first end portion away from the first main body portion, and at least one first sub-support is provided with a first notch, with a portion of the first end portion located within the first notch, and the first notch exposed to the first exhaust channel. When the internal pressure of the first cell is too high, pressure relief can be achieved by opening the first notch, and the gas discharged from the first notch directly enters the first exhaust channel, resulting in faster gas discharge and further reducing the possibility of excessive internal temperature, excessive internal pressure, or even explosion of the battery module, thereby further improving the safety of the battery module in use.

[0018] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first notch and the first recess are disposed opposite to each other along the second direction. The first recess can block part of the pressure released from the first notch from rushing towards the second cell, reducing the possibility that the second cell unit group will be affected when the first cell unit group is abnormal, which helps to mitigate the possibility of the battery module as a whole abnormal and improves the safety of the battery module.

[0019] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the second component includes a second recess, a third connecting portion, and a fourth connecting portion. Along a third direction, the projection of the third connecting portion overlaps with the projection of each first cell, and the projection of the fourth connecting portion overlaps with the projection of each second cell. At least a portion of the second recess is located between the first pressure relief portion and the second pressure relief portion. The second recess can prevent some of the pressure released from the first pressure relief portion from impacting the second cell, and can also prevent some of the pressure released from the second pressure relief portion from impacting the first cell, reducing the possibility of mutual interference when the first and second cell unit groups malfunction. This helps to mitigate the possibility of overall battery module malfunctions and improves the safety of the battery module.

[0020] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, each second battery cell unit includes a second battery cell and a second support connected to the second battery cell. When part of the second battery cell is subjected to force, the second support is subjected to force before the second battery cell, thus protecting the second battery cell.

[0021] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first component is connected to each second bracket, and the second component is connected to each second bracket. The first component and the second component fix the second battery cell through the second bracket.

[0022] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the second bracket and the second battery cell are integrally formed, with the second bracket covering at least a portion of the second main body. This improves the connection strength between the second bracket and the second battery cell.

[0023] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the battery module includes two first insulating members. One first insulating member is disposed between the first component and the first bracket to strengthen the insulation of the first cell of the first component and reduce damage to the first bracket from the first component. The other first insulating member is disposed between the first component and the second bracket to strengthen the insulation between the first component and the second cell and reduce damage to the second bracket from the first component.

[0024] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the battery module includes two second insulating members, wherein the second insulating member is disposed between the second component and the first bracket to strengthen the insulation of the first cell of the second component and reduce damage to the first bracket by the second component. Another second insulating member is disposed between the second component and the second bracket to strengthen the insulation between the second component and the second cell and reduce damage to the second bracket by the second component.

[0025] In one or more of the above optional embodiments, the first wall includes a first rear wall and a first front wall spaced apart along a first direction, and a first upper wall and a first lower wall spaced apart along a third direction. The first front wall, the first rear wall, the first upper wall and the first lower wall are connected to the second exhaust channel, and the first connecting port is provided on the first front wall.

[0026] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an energy storage device, including at least one battery module as described above. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly described below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a battery module provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0029] Figure 2 is an exploded structural diagram of a battery module provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 3 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the first / second wall of the battery module provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 4 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the first / second cell of the battery module provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a battery module provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 6 is a partially enlarged structural diagram of point A in the battery module in Figure 5;

[0034] Figure 7 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the first battery cell unit / second battery cell unit provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a battery module provided in some other embodiments of this application;

[0036] Figure 9 is a partially enlarged structural diagram of point C in the battery module in Figure 8;

[0037] Figure 10 is a partial enlarged structural diagram of point B of the battery module in Figure 5.

[0038] Icons: 10 - Battery module; 110 - First wall; 111 - First front wall; 112 - First rear wall; 113 - First upper wall; 114 - First lower wall; 120 - Second wall; 121 - Second front wall; 122 - Second rear wall; 123 - Second upper wall; 124 - Second lower wall; 130 - First component; 131 - First recess; 132 - First connecting part; 133 - Second connecting part; 140 - Second component; 141 - Second recess; 142 - Third connecting part; 143 - Fourth connecting part; 150 - Third component; 160 - Fourth component; 170 - Fifth component; 180 - Sixth component; 101 - First exhaust channel; 102 - Second exhaust channel; 103 - First connecting port; 104 - Third exhaust channel; 105 - Second connecting port; 200 - First cell unit group; 210-First cell unit; 211-First cell; 2111-First cell housing; 2111a-First main body; 2111b-First sealing part; 2111b1-First end; 2112-First electrode terminal; 212-First bracket; 2121-First sub-bracket; 2122-Second sub-bracket; 201-First notch; 300-Second cell unit group; 310-Second cell unit; 311-Second cell; 3111-Second cell housing; 3111a-Second main body; 3111b-Second sealing part; 3112-Second electrode terminal; 410-First insulating member; 420-Second insulating member; 430-Elastic member; X-First direction; X'-Opposite direction of the first direction; Y-Second direction; Z-Third direction. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0040] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the specification of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having" and any variations thereof in the specification, claims and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0041] The terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, or the accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order or primary / secondary relationship.

[0042] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0043] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0044] Battery modules generate heat during use, especially under conditions such as high-rate operation, continuous charging and discharging without rest, which can lead to overheating of the cells. Cells are typically equipped with pressure relief mechanisms to release pressure when the cell temperature is too high or the internal pressure is too great. However, in current battery modules, multiple cells are arranged closely together. If the pressure released by a cell cannot be released in time, it can cause the cell temperature to continue to rise or even ignite, leading to excessively high internal temperature and pressure within the battery module, which can affect other devices connected to the battery module.

[0045] To improve the safety of battery modules, this application provides a battery module including a first wall and a second wall, a cell group, a first component and a second component, wherein the first wall and the second wall are spaced apart along a first direction; the cell group is located between the first wall and the second wall, and the cell group includes a first cell unit group and a second cell unit group arranged spaced apart along a second direction; along a third direction, the first component and the second component are located on both sides of the cell group, the first component is connected to the first wall and the second wall respectively, and the second component is connected to the first wall and the second wall respectively; the first cell unit group and the second cell unit group, the first component and the second component serve as at least part of the components forming a first exhaust channel, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other; wherein, the first wall is provided with a second exhaust channel, and the first exhaust channel and the second exhaust channel are connected.

[0046] In this battery module structure, the first wall, second wall, first component, and second component serve to fix and support the first and second cell unit groups. When the cell temperature of the first and second cell unit groups becomes too high or the internal pressure becomes too high, and pressure relief is required through the pressure relief mechanism, the discharged gas can enter the first exhaust channel and further exit through the second exhaust channel connected to the first exhaust channel. This achieves pressure relief of the battery module, reduces the possibility of the cell temperature continuing to rise or even being ignited, reduces the possibility of excessive internal temperature and pressure within the battery module or even an explosion, reduces the impact on other devices connected to the battery module, and improves the safety of the battery module in use.

[0047] The battery module provided in this application embodiment can be a secondary battery or a primary battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, a sodium-ion battery, or a magnesium-ion battery, etc., and this application embodiment is not limited in this respect. The electrochemical device can be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes, etc., and this application embodiment is not limited in this respect either.

[0048] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, Figure 1 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a battery module provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 2 is an exploded structural diagram of a battery module provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0049] Some embodiments of this application provide a battery module 10, which includes a first wall 110 and a second wall 120, a cell assembly, a first component 130, and a second component 140. The first wall 110 and the second wall 120 are spaced apart along a first direction X. The cell assembly is located between the first wall 110 and the second wall 120, and includes a first cell unit group 200 and a second cell unit group 300 arranged spaced apart along a second direction Y. Along a third direction Z, the first component 130 and the second component 140 are located on both sides of the cell assembly. The first component 130 is connected to the first wall 110 and the second wall 120 respectively, and the second component 140 is connected to the first wall 110 and the second wall 120 respectively.

[0050] In some embodiments, the first cell unit group 200 includes a plurality of first cell units 210 arranged along a first direction X.

[0051] In some embodiments, the second cell unit group 300 includes a plurality of second cell units 310 arranged along a first direction X.

[0052] In some embodiments, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z are perpendicular to each other.

[0053] In some embodiments, the first component 130 is fixedly connected to the first wall 110 and the second wall 120, respectively, and the second component 140 is fixedly connected to the first wall 110 and the second wall 120, respectively. The first wall 110, the second wall 120, the first component 130, and the second component 140 serve to fix and support the first battery cell unit group 200 and the second battery cell unit group 300. The fixing methods include, but are not limited to, snap-fit ​​fixing, screw fixing, and welding.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first wall 110, the second wall 120, the first component 130, and the second component 140 can be made of high-strength materials, such as steel, aluminum alloy, and other metal materials. The first wall 110, the second wall 120, the first component 130, and the second component 140 have high stress performance, and thus the first wall 110, the second wall 120, the first component 130, and the second component 140 are less likely to deform or break due to stress or environmental changes, thereby making the battery module 10 more reliable.

[0055] In other embodiments, the first wall 110, the second wall 120, the first component 130, and the second component 140 may also be non-metallic materials with high strength, such as carbon fiber and rigid plastic.

[0056] In some embodiments, the battery module 10 includes a first exhaust channel 101, a first cell unit group 200 and a second cell unit group 300, a first component 130 and a second component 140 as at least part of the components forming the first exhaust channel 101. A first wall 110 is provided with a second exhaust channel 102, and the first exhaust channel 101 and the second exhaust channel 102 are connected.

[0057] In some embodiments, the first cell unit group 200 and the second cell unit group 300, the first component 130 and the second component 140 form a first exhaust channel 101, shortening the pressure relief path and further improving the safety performance of the battery module 10.

[0058] When the cell temperature of the first cell unit group 200 and the cell pressure of the second cell unit group 300 are too high or the internal pressure is too high, and the pressure is released through the pressure relief mechanism, the gas discharged can enter the first exhaust channel 101 and be further discharged through the second exhaust channel 102 connected to the first exhaust channel 101. This realizes the pressure relief of the battery module 10, reduces the possibility of the cell temperature continuing to rise or even being ignited, reduces the possibility of the battery module 10 having excessive internal temperature, excessive internal pressure or even explosion, reduces the impact on other devices connected to the battery module 10, and improves the safety of the battery module 10.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first exhaust channel 101 and the second exhaust channel 102 may be directly connected. For example, the first battery cell group 200 and the second battery cell group 300, the first component 130 and the second component 140 are directly connected to the first wall 110, so that the first exhaust channel 101 and the second exhaust channel 102 are directly connected.

[0060] In other embodiments, the first exhaust passage 101 and the second exhaust passage 102 may also be indirectly connected. For example, the first exhaust passage 101 and the second exhaust passage 102 are provided with a gap that connects the first exhaust passage 101 and the second exhaust passage 102.

[0061] Also refer to Figure 3, which is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the first wall of the battery module provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0062] In some embodiments, a first communication port 103 is provided on the first wall 110, and at least a portion of the first communication port 103 and the first exhaust passage 101 are disposed opposite each other along the first direction X.

[0063] The gas discharged from the first cell unit group 200 and the second cell unit group 300 enters the first exhaust channel 101 and then directly enters the second exhaust channel 102 through the first connecting port 103, thereby realizing the discharge of gas. The gas depressurization path is shorter, which improves the depressurization speed of the battery module 10 and thus improves the heat dissipation effect of the battery module 10.

[0064] In some embodiments, the first exhaust passage 101 extends along a first direction X, and the second exhaust passage 102 extends along a second direction Y.

[0065] Multiple first cell units 210 of the first cell unit group 200 are stacked along the first direction X, and multiple second cell units 310 of the second cell unit group 300 are stacked along the first direction X. The gas discharged from each first cell unit 210 and second cell unit 310 flows directly into the first exhaust channel 101, then flows along the first direction X in the first exhaust channel 101, quickly enters the second exhaust channel 102, and flows along the second direction Y in the second exhaust channel 102 and is discharged. The pressure relief speed of the battery module 10 is relatively fast, which further reduces the possibility of excessive internal temperature, excessive internal pressure or even explosion of the battery module 10, and further improves the safety of the battery module 10.

[0066] Referring to Figure 3, in some embodiments, the first wall 110 includes a first rear wall 112 and a first front wall 111 spaced apart along a first direction X, and a first upper wall 113 and a first lower wall 114 spaced apart along a third direction Z. The first front wall 111, the first rear wall 112, the first upper wall 113, and the first lower wall 114 are connected to form a second exhaust channel 102. A first connecting port 103 is disposed on the first front wall 111 and penetrates through the first front wall 111. Gas in the first exhaust channel 101 enters the second exhaust channel 102 through the first connecting port 103.

[0067] In some embodiments, the second exhaust channel 102 is an expansion reserved space for the first cell unit group 200 and the second cell unit group 300.

[0068] In some embodiments, the first front wall 111, the first rear wall 112, the first upper wall 113, and the first lower wall 114 may be fixedly connected by means of integral forming, welding, bonding, etc.

[0069] In some embodiments, the second wall 120 is provided with a third exhaust channel 104 and a second connecting port 105. Along the first direction X, at least a portion of the second connecting port 105 and the first exhaust channel 101 are arranged opposite each other. Gas discharged from the battery cell enters the first exhaust channel 101 and then enters the third exhaust channel 102 through the second connecting port 105. With more exhaust channels and a faster exhaust speed, the pressure relief path from the first connecting port 103 to the second exhaust channel 102 is shorter, further increasing the pressure relief speed of the battery module 10. This further reduces the possibility of excessive internal temperature, excessive internal pressure, or even explosion within the battery module 10, further improving the safety of the battery module 10.

[0070] In some embodiments, referring to FIG3, the structure of the second wall 120 is similar to that of the first wall 110. The second wall 120 includes a second front wall 121 and a second rear wall 112 spaced apart along a first direction X, and a second upper wall 123 and a second lower wall 124 spaced apart along a third direction Z. The second front wall 121, the second rear wall 112, the second upper wall 123, and the second lower wall 124 are connected to form a third exhaust channel 104, and a second connecting port 105 is provided in the second front wall 121. Gas in the first exhaust channel 101 enters the third exhaust channel 104 through the second connecting port 105.

[0071] In some embodiments, the third exhaust channel 104 is an expansion reserved space for the first cell unit group 200 and the second cell unit group 300.

[0072] In some embodiments, the second front wall 121, the second rear wall 122, the second upper wall 123, and the second lower wall 124 may be fixedly connected by means of integral forming, welding, bonding, etc.

[0073] Please also refer to Figure 4, which is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the first cell of the battery module provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0074] In some embodiments, the first cell unit group 200 includes a plurality of first cell units 210 arranged along a first direction X. Each first cell unit 210 includes a first cell 211, and each first cell 211 includes a first pressure relief section located on the side of the first cell 211 closest to the second cell 311. When the first pressure relief section is opened, the gas discharged from the first cell 211 directly enters the first exhaust channel 101, thereby accelerating the exhaust speed and further improving the safety of the battery module 10.

[0075] In some embodiments, the second cell unit group 300 includes a plurality of second cell units 310 arranged along a first direction X. Each second cell unit 310 includes a second cell 311, and each second cell 311 includes a second pressure relief section located on the side of the second cell 311 closest to the first cell 211. When the second pressure relief section is opened, the gas discharged from the second cell 311 directly enters the first exhaust channel 101, thereby accelerating the exhaust speed and further improving the safety of the battery module 10.

[0076] See Figures 5 and 6. Figure 6 is a partially enlarged structural diagram of point A of the battery module in Figure 5.

[0077] In some embodiments, the first component 130 includes a first recess 131, a first connecting portion 132, and a second connecting portion 133. Along the third direction Z, the projection of the first connecting portion 132 overlaps with the projection of each first cell 211, and the projection of the second connecting portion 133 overlaps with the projection of each second cell 311. At least a portion of the first recess 131 is located between the first pressure relief portion and the second pressure relief portion. The first recess 131 can prevent a portion of the pressure released from the first pressure relief portion from impacting the second cell 311, and can also prevent a portion of the pressure released from the second pressure relief portion from impacting the first cell 211. This reduces the possibility of mutual interference when the first cell unit group 200 and the second cell unit group 300 malfunction, thus mitigating the possibility of overall malfunction of the battery module 10 and improving the safety of the battery module 10.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first cell 211 includes a first cell housing 2111, the first cell housing 2111 includes a first main body portion 2111a, a first sealing portion 2111b and a first electrode terminal 2112, the first electrode terminal 2112 extends out of the first cell housing 2111 from the first sealing portion 2111b, and the first pressure relief portion includes the first sealing portion 2111b.

[0079] In some embodiments, referring to FIG4, the first cell 211 includes two first sealing portions 2111b and two first electrode terminals 2112. The two first sealing portions 2111b are respectively located on both sides of the first main body portion 2111a, and the first pressure relief portion includes one of the first sealing portions 2111b. In other embodiments, the first cell 211 includes one first sealing portion 2111b, and the two first electrode terminals 2112 extend from the same first sealing portion 2111b out of the first cell housing 2111.

[0080] In some embodiments, the first cell housing 2111 includes an aluminum-plastic film, and the first cell 211 includes a pouch cell.

[0081] In some examples, the first cell 211 is a square cell or a cylindrical cell, and the first pressure relief part is a pressure relief valve for the square cell or a pressure relief valve for the cylindrical cell.

[0082] In some embodiments, the second cell 311 includes a second cell housing 3111, the second cell housing 3111 includes a second body portion 3111a, a second sealing portion 3111b and a second electrode terminal 3112, the second electrode terminal 3112 extends out of the second cell housing 3111 from the second sealing portion 3111b, and the second pressure relief portion includes the second sealing portion 3111b.

[0083] In some embodiments, referring to FIG4, the second cell 311 includes two second sealing portions 3111b and two second electrode terminals 3112. The two second sealing portions 3111b are respectively located on both sides of the second body portion 3111a, and the second pressure relief portion includes one of the second sealing portions 3111b. In other embodiments, the second cell 311 includes one second sealing portion 3111b, and the two second electrode terminals 3112 extend from the same second sealing portion 3111b out of the second cell housing 3111.

[0084] In some embodiments, the second cell housing 3111 includes an aluminum-plastic film, and the second cell 311 includes a pouch cell.

[0085] In some examples, the second cell 311 is a square cell or a cylindrical cell, and the second pressure relief part is a pressure relief valve for the square cell or a pressure relief valve for the cylindrical cell.

[0086] Referring to Figure 7, Figure 7 is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the first cell unit of the battery module provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0087] In some embodiments, each first cell unit 210 includes a first cell 211 and a first bracket 212 connected to the first cell 211. When part of the first cell 211 is subjected to force, the first bracket 212 is subjected to force before the first cell 211, thus protecting the first cell 211.

[0088] In some embodiments, a first component 130 is connected to each first bracket 212, and a second component 140 is connected to each first bracket 212. The first component 130 and the second component 140 fix the first cell 211 through the first bracket 212.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first bracket 212 and the first battery cell 211 are integrally formed, with the first bracket 212 covering at least a portion of the first main body 2111a. This improves the connection strength between the first bracket 212 and the first battery cell 211. Integral forming means that the first bracket 212 and the first battery cell 211 are directly fixed together. Methods of integral forming include, but are not limited to, potting processes and injection molding processes.

[0090] In other embodiments, the connection method between the first bracket 212 and the first battery cell 211 includes, but is not limited to, assembly, spraying, etc.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first cell 211 may be in the form of a cuboid, a flat body, a cylinder, or other shapes.

[0092] In some embodiments, the first cell 211 may be a pouch cell.

[0093] In some embodiments, after the insulating material is placed around the first battery cell 211 by a potting process, the insulating material is cured to form a first support 212. The first support 212 and the first battery cell 211 are bonded and fixed together. For example, the first battery cell 211 is placed into a mold, the insulating material is poured into the mold, and after the insulating material is cured to form the first support 212 and is bonded and fixed together with the first battery cell 211, the first support 212 and the first battery cell 211 are removed from the mold.

[0094] In some embodiments, the insulating material includes, but is not limited to, potting compound and foam.

[0095] In some embodiments, the injection molding process includes placing a first battery cell 211 into a mold, heating and melting an insulating material using injection molding equipment, allowing the molten insulating material to flow into the mold, and after the insulating material solidifies to form a first support 212 and is bonded and fixed to the first battery cell 211, removing the first support 212 and the first battery cell 211 from the mold. Optionally, the insulating material includes polyamide.

[0096] In some embodiments, the first bracket 212 is an insulating bracket, which can reduce the risk of short circuit between the first bracket 212 and the first battery cell 211.

[0097] In other embodiments, the first bracket 212 may also be fixed to the first battery cell 211 by means of fasteners or buckles.

[0098] In some embodiments, the first support 212 includes a first sub-support 2121 and a second sub-support 2122, and the first cell housing 2111 includes two first sealing portions 2111b. The first sub-support 2121 covers at least a portion of one of the first sealing portions 2111b, and the second sub-support 2122 covers at least a portion of the other first sealing portion 2111b. The first support 212 protects the two first sealing portions 2111b.

[0099] In some embodiments, the first sealing portion 2111b includes a first end portion 2111b1 away from the first main body portion 2111a, and at least one first sub-support 2121 is provided with a first notch 201. A portion of the first end portion 2111b1 is located within the first notch 201, and the first notch 201 is exposed to the first exhaust channel 101. When the internal pressure of the first cell 211 is too high, it may be relieved by opening the first notch 201. The gas discharged from the first notch 201 directly enters the first exhaust channel 101, and the gas discharge speed is faster, further reducing the possibility of excessive internal temperature, excessive internal pressure, or even explosion of the battery module 10, and further improving the safety of the battery module 10.

[0100] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module provided in some other embodiments of this application; Figure 9 is a partially enlarged view of the battery module at point C in Figure 8.

[0101] In some embodiments, the first notch 201 and the first recess 131 are disposed opposite to each other along the second direction Y. The first recess 131 can block part of the pressure released from the first notch 201 from rushing toward the second cell 311, reducing the possibility that the second cell unit group 300 will be affected when the first cell unit group 200 is abnormal, which helps to mitigate the possibility of the battery module 10 being abnormal as a whole and improves the safety of the battery module 10.

[0102] In some embodiments, the second component 140 includes a second recess 141, a third connecting portion 142, and a fourth connecting portion 143. Along the third direction Z, the projection of the third connecting portion 142 overlaps with the projection of each first cell 211, and the projection of the fourth connecting portion 143 overlaps with the projection of each second cell 311. At least a portion of the second recess 141 is located between the first pressure relief portion and the second pressure relief portion. The second recess 141 can prevent a portion of the pressure released from the first pressure relief portion from impacting the second cell 311, and can also prevent a portion of the pressure released from the second pressure relief portion from impacting the first cell 211, reducing the possibility of mutual interference when the first cell unit group 200 and the second cell unit group 300 malfunction, thus mitigating the possibility of overall malfunction of the battery module 10 and improving the safety of the battery module 10.

[0103] Referring to Figure 7, in some embodiments, each second battery cell unit 310 includes a second battery cell 311 and a second support 312 connected to the second battery cell 311. When part of the second battery cell 311 is subjected to force, the second support 312 is subjected to force before the second battery cell 311, thus playing a protective role for the second battery cell 311.

[0104] In some embodiments, a first component 130 is connected to each second bracket 312, and a second component 140 is connected to each second bracket 312. The first component 130 and the second component 140 fix the second battery cell 311 through the second bracket 312.

[0105] In some embodiments, the second bracket 312 and the second battery cell 311 are integrally formed, with the second bracket 312 covering at least a portion of the second main body 3111a. This improves the connection strength between the second bracket 312 and the second battery cell 311. Integral forming means that the second bracket 312 and the second battery cell 311 are directly fixed together. Methods of integral forming include, but are not limited to, potting processes and injection molding processes.

[0106] In some embodiments, the second support 312 includes a third sub-support 3121 and a fourth sub-support 3122, and the second cell housing 3111 includes two second sealing portions 3111b. The third sub-support 3121 covers at least a portion of one of the second sealing portions 3111b, and the fourth sub-support 3122 covers at least a portion of the other second sealing portion 3111b. The second support 312 protects the two second sealing portions 3111b.

[0107] Referring to Figure 6, in some embodiments, the battery module 10 includes two first insulating members 410. One first insulating member 410 is disposed between the first component 130 and the first support 212 to strengthen the insulation of the first cell 211 of the first component 130 and reduce damage to the first support 212 by the first component 130. The other first insulating member 410 is disposed between the first component 130 and the second support 312 to strengthen the insulation between the first component 130 and the second cell 311 and reduce damage to the second support 312 by the first component 130.

[0108] In some embodiments, the first component 130 and the first insulating member 410 are in contact connection. In other embodiments, the first component 130 and the first insulating member 410 are bonded together. In still other embodiments, a gap of less than 2 mm exists between the first component 130 and the first insulating member 410 along the third direction Z.

[0109] In some embodiments, the battery module 10 includes two second insulating members 420. One second insulating member 420 is disposed between the second component 140 and the first support 212 to strengthen the insulation of the first cell 211 of the second component 140 and reduce damage to the first support 212 by the second component 140. The other second insulating member 420 is disposed between the second component 140 and the second support 312 to strengthen the insulation between the second component 140 and the second cell 311 and reduce damage to the second support 312 by the second component 140.

[0110] In some embodiments, the second component 140 and the second insulating member 420 are in contact with each other. In other embodiments, the second component 140 and the second insulating member 420 are bonded together. In still other embodiments, a gap of less than 2 mm exists between the second component 140 and the second insulating member 420 along the third direction Z.

[0111] In some embodiments, the first insulating element 410 is made of polycarbonate material.

[0112] In other embodiments, the first insulating element 410 may also be made of other materials with a low coefficient of friction, such as a mixture of polycarbonate and polyester.

[0113] In some embodiments, the second insulating element 420 is made of polycarbonate material.

[0114] In other embodiments, the second insulating element 420 may also be made of other materials with a low coefficient of friction, such as a mixture of polycarbonate and polyester.

[0115] Referring to Figure 2, in some embodiments, the battery module 10 includes a third component 150 and a fourth component 160, which are spaced apart along a third direction Z. The third component 150 is connected to a first wall 110 and a second wall 120 at both ends along a first direction X, and the fourth component 160 is also connected to the first wall 110 and the second wall 120 at both ends along the first direction X. The third component 150 and the first component 130 are spaced apart along a second direction Y, and the fourth component 160 and the second component 140 are also spaced apart along the second direction Y. The first cell unit 210 is fixedly connected to the first component 130, the second component 140, the third component 150, and the fourth component 160.

[0116] See Figures 2 and 10. Figure 10 is a partially enlarged structural diagram of point B of the battery module in Figure 5.

[0117] In some embodiments, the battery module 10 includes a fifth component 170 and a sixth component 180, which are spaced apart along a third direction Z. The fifth component 170 is connected to a first wall 110 and a second wall 120 at both ends along a first direction X, and the sixth component 180 is connected to the first wall 110 and the second wall 120 at both ends along the first direction X. The first component 130 and the fifth component 170 are spaced apart along a second direction Y, and the second component 140 and the sixth component 180 are spaced apart along the second direction Y. The second cell unit 310 is fixedly connected to the first component 130, the second component 140, the fifth component 170, and the sixth component 180.

[0118] In some embodiments, the battery module 10 includes an elastic member 430 disposed along a first direction X between the first cell unit group 200 and the first wall 110, and between the second cell unit group 300 and the first wall 110. The elastic member 430 provides space for the expansion of the first cell 211 and the second cell 311.

[0119] This application provides an energy storage device, which includes at least one battery module 10 provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0120] The energy storage device can be any of the aforementioned devices or systems that utilize battery modules.

[0121] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A battery module, characterized in that, include: The first wall and the second wall are spaced apart along the first direction; A battery cell assembly is located between the first wall and the second wall. The battery cell assembly includes a first battery cell unit group and a second battery cell unit group arranged at intervals along a second direction. A first component and a second component are located on both sides of the battery cell assembly along a third direction. The first component is connected to the first wall and the second wall respectively, and the second component is connected to the first wall and the second wall respectively. The first exhaust channel is formed by the first battery cell group and the second battery cell group, the first component and the second component as at least part of the components forming the first exhaust channel, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other; wherein, the first wall is provided with a second exhaust channel, and the first exhaust channel and the second exhaust channel are connected.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first wall is provided with a first connecting port, and at least a portion of the first connecting port and the first exhaust channel are arranged opposite each other along the first direction.

3. The battery module according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first exhaust passage extends along the first direction, and the second exhaust passage extends along the second direction.

4. The battery module according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The first cell unit group includes a plurality of first cell units arranged along the first direction. Each first cell unit includes a first cell and a first pressure relief section located on the side of the first cell closer to a second cell. The second cell unit group includes a plurality of second cell units arranged along the first direction. Each second cell unit includes a second cell and a second pressure relief section located on the side of the second cell closer to a first cell.

5. The battery module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first component includes a first recess, a first connecting portion, and a second connecting portion. Along the third direction, the projection of the first connecting portion overlaps with the projection of each first battery cell, and the projection of the second connecting portion overlaps with the projection of each second battery cell. At least a portion of the first recess is located between the first pressure relief portion and the second pressure relief portion.

6. The battery module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first battery cell includes a first battery cell housing and a first electrode terminal. The first battery cell housing includes a first main body and a first sealing part. The first electrode terminal extends out of the first battery cell housing from the first sealing part. The first pressure relief part includes the first sealing part.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, characterized in that, Each of the first battery cell units includes a first battery cell and a first bracket connected to the first battery cell; the first component is connected to each of the first brackets, and the second component is connected to each of the first brackets.

8. The battery module according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first support includes a first sub-support and a second sub-support, and the first cell housing includes two first sealing portions. The first sub-support covers at least a portion of one of the first sealing portions, and the second sub-support covers at least a portion of the other first sealing portion.

9. The battery module according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first sealing portion includes a first end portion away from the first main body portion, at least one of the first sub-supports is provided with a first notch, a portion of the first end portion is located within the first notch, and the first notch is exposed in the first exhaust passage; Along the second direction, the first notch and the first recess are disposed opposite to each other.

10. The battery module according to any one of claims 5-9, characterized in that, The second component includes a second recess, a third connecting portion, and a fourth connecting portion. Along the third direction, the projection of the third connecting portion overlaps with the projection of each first cell, and the projection of the fourth connecting portion overlaps with the projection of each second cell. At least a portion of the second recess is located between the first pressure relief portion and the second pressure relief portion.

11. The battery module according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The first wall includes a first rear wall and a first front wall spaced apart along the first direction, and a first upper wall and a first lower wall spaced apart along the third direction. The first front wall, the first rear wall, the first upper wall and the first lower wall are connected to form the second exhaust channel, and the first connecting port is disposed on the first front wall.

12. An energy storage device, characterized in that, It includes at least one battery module as described in any one of claims 1-11.

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