Battery module

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of battery safety, and discloses a battery module. The battery module comprises a box body and a plurality of battery cells arranged in the box body in parallel, a first elastic piece is arranged between every two adjacent battery cells, the first elastic pieces can apply elastic force towards a first direction to the battery cells, one side of the box body along the first direction is open, and the open end of the box body is blocked by a sealing plate; the sealing plate can be separated from the open end of the box body when the temperature of the battery cell is abnormal. Based on the battery module provided by the invention, the abnormal battery cell of the battery module can be responded in real time, so that the performance of the battery module under various working conditions is ensured, the service life of the battery module is prolonged, thermal runaway is prevented, the use safety of the battery module is improved, and the battery module in the design mode is compact in structure and low in cost. The energy density of the battery module is improved, meanwhile, the movement distance of the battery cells in the first direction is small, and excessive space avoiding design does not need to be made.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery safety technology, and more specifically to a battery module. Background Technology

[0002] With the increasing prevalence of battery modules in electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and communications, battery module safety technology is becoming increasingly important. A battery module is composed of multiple individual battery cells, and its performance and safety are affected by temperature and other factors. Currently, when one battery cell in a battery module malfunctions, causing abnormal or excessively high temperatures leading to spontaneous combustion, it can easily ignite other battery modules or even the entire vehicle, resulting in poor safety. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an instant intelligent management technology that is crucial for ensuring the performance of battery modules under various operating conditions, extending their lifespan, preventing thermal runaway, and ensuring system safety. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To address the technical problem of poor safety in current battery modules where cell malfunctions leading to abnormal or excessively high temperatures can easily ignite other battery modules or the entire vehicle, this invention provides a battery module.

[0004] This invention provides a battery module, including a housing and a plurality of battery cells arranged side-by-side inside the housing. A first elastic element is provided between two adjacent battery cells, which can apply an elastic force to the battery cells in a first direction. The housing has an opening on one side along the first direction, and the open end of the housing is sealed by a sealing plate. The sealing plate can detach from the open end of the housing when the temperature of the battery cells becomes abnormal, and is configured as follows:

[0005] Without the restraint of the sealing plate, at least the first elastic element adjacent to the abnormal cell can extend to pop open the normal cell and disconnect the abnormal cell from the normal cell.

[0006] Optionally, a first tab and a second tab are respectively provided on the electrodes of two adjacent battery cells. The first tab and the second tab are engaged along the first direction, and the first tab and the second tab can be disconnected when the two adjacent battery cells spring apart.

[0007] Optionally, the first elastic element includes a first spring disposed between two adjacent battery cells. When the sealing plate is removed, the plurality of first springs can spring apart the two adjacent battery cells and disconnect the connection between the first plate and the second plate.

[0008] Optionally, the first elastic element includes a deformation unit that can extend along the first direction when the temperature of the adjacent cell becomes abnormal, so as to pop away the adjacent normal cell and disconnect the connection between the first and second pads.

[0009] Optionally, the battery module further includes a first backup line, and both the first and second battery pads are provided with a line socket that communicates with the first backup line.

[0010] Optionally, the battery module further includes a second backup circuit and a control component capable of controlling the connection and disconnection between the second backup circuit and the battery cell, configured as follows:

[0011] When the temperature of the battery cell becomes abnormal, the control component can control the backup circuit to connect the normal battery cells located on both sides of the abnormal battery cell to restore the operation of the battery module.

[0012] Optionally, the first pad is provided with a plurality of slots at intervals, and the second pad is provided with a plurality of inserts at intervals, wherein the slots and inserts correspond one-to-one and engage with each other.

[0013] Optionally, electromagnetic retainers are provided on both sides of the open end of the enclosure, and the sealing plate includes a U-shaped band made of metal. The two sides of the U-shaped band are respectively slidably engaged with the two electromagnetic retainers along the first direction, and are configured as follows:

[0014] The electromagnetic retainer can demagnetize and release the U-shaped belt when the temperature of the battery cell becomes abnormal.

[0015] Optionally, the electromagnetic fastener is provided with a groove for inserting the U-shaped belt, and the bottom of both sides of the U-shaped belt is provided with arc-shaped sliders that slide in cooperation with the bottom of the groove.

[0016] Optionally, a rectangular groove is provided at the position of the housing corresponding to the battery cell, and the area of ​​the rectangular groove is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the battery cell;

[0017] And / or, the housing is provided with a vent at the position corresponding to the first elastic member.

[0018] The technical solution provided by the embodiments of the present invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0019] Based on the battery module provided by this invention, when a cell malfunctions and causes a temperature rise, the sealing plate can detach from the open end of the casing. At this time, at least the first elastic member adjacent to the malfunctioning cell can extend to pop open the normal cell and disconnect the connection between the malfunctioning cell and the normal cell, thus avoiding affecting the safe use of the normal cell. At the same time, it can prevent the malfunctioning cell from continuing to heat up and causing spontaneous combustion. It can react to the malfunctioning cell of the battery module in a timely manner to ensure the performance of the battery module under various working conditions, extend the service life of the battery module, prevent thermal runaway, and increase the safety of the battery module. Moreover, the battery module structure under this design is compact, which improves the energy density of the battery module. At the same time, the distance the cell moves along the first direction is small, so there is no need to make too much space avoidance design. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the battery module structure when the cell temperature is abnormal, as described in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the battery module with a second backup circuit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the box body according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first and second bar tablets on the side away from the box body according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first and second pads facing the box body according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the first elastic element and the heat-conducting plate in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of the electromagnetic fixing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the U-shaped belt according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0032] 1. Housing; 11. Open end; 12. Rectangular slot; 13. Ventilation opening; 14. Edge retainer; 2. Battery cell; 21. First plate; 211. Slot; 212. First card plate; 213. First card slot; 214. Second card plate; 215. Second card slot; 22. Second plate; 221. Insert block; 222. Third card plate; 223. Third card slot; 224. Fourth card plate; 225. Fourth... 3. Slot; 4. First elastic element; 5. Inner cylinder; 6. Outer cylinder; 7. Heat-conducting plate; 8. Sealing plate; 9. U-shaped belt; 10. Limiting plate; 11. Side plate; 12. Arc-shaped slider; 13. Electromagnetic fastener; 14. Slide groove; 15. Baffle; 26. Base plate; 37. Silicon steel sheet; 48. Second spare circuit; 59. First spare lever; 60. Second spare lever; 61. Power flexible cord. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention, the solutions of the present invention will be further described below. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features of the present invention can be combined with each other.

[0034] The following description sets forth many specific details in order to provide a full understanding of the invention, but the invention may also be practiced in other ways different from those described herein; obviously, the embodiments described in the specification are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the invention.

[0035] Combination Figures 1 to 3As shown, the battery module provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a housing 1 and multiple battery cells 2 arranged side-by-side inside the housing 1. The multiple battery cells 2 are arranged side-by-side along a first direction, which is the length direction of the housing 1. A first elastic member 3 is provided between two adjacent battery cells 2, and the first elastic member 3 can apply an elastic force towards the battery cell 2 in the first direction. One side of the housing 1 along the first direction is open, allowing the battery cells 2 to be inserted into the housing 1 through the open end 11, increasing the convenience of battery cell installation and removal. The open end 11 of the housing 1 is sealed by a sealing plate 4. The sealing plate 4 effectively seals the contents of the open end 11 of the housing 1 and can press against the multiple battery cells 2, causing the first elastic member 3 to be in a contracted state. This allows communication between two adjacent battery cells 2, increasing the space ratio inside the housing 1 and increasing the energy density of the battery module. The sealing plate 4 can detach from the open end 11 of the housing 1 when the temperature of the battery cell 2 becomes abnormal. The detection method for the abnormal temperature of the battery cell 2 is either by detecting the temperature inside the housing 1 or by detecting the temperature of a single battery cell 2, which can be designed according to actual needs. The detachment from the open end 11 of the housing 1 means that the sealing plate 4 can maintain a certain distance from the open end 11 of the housing 1 in a first direction to allow for the movement of the battery cell 2. Furthermore, it is configured such that, without the restraint of the sealing plate 4, at least the first elastic member 3 adjacent to the abnormal battery cell 2 can extend to push aside the normal battery cell 2 and disconnect the connection between the abnormal battery cell 2 and the normal battery cell 2, preventing the battery cell 2 from continuously heating up.

[0036] Based on the battery module provided by this invention, when the temperature rises due to an abnormality in the cell 2, the sealing plate 4 can detach from the open end 11 of the housing 1. At this time, at least the first elastic member 3 adjacent to the abnormal cell 2 can extend to pop open the normal cell 2 and disconnect the connection between the abnormal cell 2 and the normal cell 2, so as to avoid affecting the safe use of the normal cell 2. At the same time, it can prevent the abnormal cell 2 from continuing to heat up and causing spontaneous combustion. It can react to the abnormal cell 2 of the battery module in time to ensure the performance of the battery module under various working conditions, extend the service life of the battery module, prevent thermal runaway, and increase the safety of the battery module. Moreover, the battery module structure under this design is compact, which improves the energy density of the battery module. At the same time, the distance that the cell 2 moves along the first direction is small, so there is no need to make too much space avoidance design.

[0037] In some implementations, reference continues. Figures 1 to 3 Each of two adjacent battery cells 2 has a first tab 21 and a second tab 22 on its electrodes. The first tab 21 and the second tab 22 are engaged along a first direction, and the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 can be disconnected when the two adjacent battery cells 2 are released. Specifically, the positive and negative electrodes of the battery cell 2, except for the two leads, are respectively soldered with the first tab 21 and the second tab 22.

[0038] In this design, the connection between the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 enables circuit connectivity between two adjacent battery cells 2, while the disconnection between the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 disconnects the circuit between the two adjacent battery cells 2. Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​connection between the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 facilitates electrode connection during battery cell 2 installation. When the sealing plate 4 detaches from the open end 11 of the housing 1, the first elastic element 3 causes the two adjacent battery cells 2 to spring open, disconnecting the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 on the two adjacent battery cells 2, thus breaking the circuit between the two adjacent battery cells 2. This connection method for the battery cells 2 reduces the amount of wiring required, making the battery module structure more compact and increasing the energy density of the battery module.

[0039] In some implementations, such as Figure 4 As shown, the top of the housing 1 is open, that is, the top of the housing 1 adopts a hollow design and leaves a 5-8mm retaining edge 14. The top of the battery cell 2 is limited by the retaining edge 14 to prevent the battery cell 2 from detaching from the housing 1. The top of the battery cell 2 is exposed to facilitate the connection of the electrodes of two adjacent battery cells 2 through the first electrode plate 21 and the second electrode plate 22.

[0040] This design allows for efficient use of the space in housing 1, further increasing the energy density of the battery module.

[0041] In some implementations, combined Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the first elastic element 3 includes a first spring disposed between two adjacent battery cells 2. When the sealing plate 4 is no longer restrained, the multiple first springs can spring open the two adjacent battery cells 2 and disconnect the connection between the first plate 21 and the second plate 22.

[0042] In this design, under the action of the sealing plate 4, the first spring is compressed between two adjacent battery cells 2. When the sealing plate 4 detaches from the end of the housing 1, the first spring returns to its original position and stretches due to the disappearance of the binding force, thereby pushing the two adjacent battery cells 2 to move away from each other, thus separating the two adjacent battery cells 2. At the same time, due to the separation of the two adjacent battery cells 2, the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 on the battery cell 2 will also separate, realizing the circuit between the adjacent battery cells 2, avoiding the phenomenon that the abnormal battery cell 2 continues to heat up due to the circuit connection. At this time, multiple battery cells 2 are all popped apart, and the battery cells 2 at the edge are ejected from the housing 1, making the space inside the housing 1 larger, which is conducive to the heat dissipation of the battery cells 2, thereby avoiding the phenomenon of spontaneous combustion of the battery cells 2.

[0043] In some implementations, such as Figure 7As shown, the first elastic element 3 also includes a guide cylinder sleeved on the outer periphery of the first spring. The guide cylinder includes an inner cylinder 31 and an outer cylinder 32 that slide together along a first direction, so as to guide the extension and retraction of the first spring through the inner cylinder 31 and the outer cylinder 32.

[0044] In some implementations, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first elastic element 3 includes a deformation unit that can extend along a first direction when the temperature of the adjacent cell 2 becomes abnormal, thereby popping away the adjacent normal cell 2 and disconnecting the connection between the first tab 21 and the second tab 22. During normal use of the battery module, the deformation unit does not deform at the operating temperature of the cell 2.

[0045] When the battery module is in normal use, the deformation unit is in a compressed state (the deformation unit itself is bent) to reduce space occupation in the first direction and ensure the energy density of the battery module. When cell 2 malfunctions and its temperature rises to a certain preset temperature, the deformation unit adjacent to the malfunctioning cell 2 deforms at high temperature. The length of the deformed unit in the first direction increases, thereby pushing away the normal cell 2 adjacent to the malfunctioning cell 2, preventing heat transfer from affecting the service life of the normal cell 2. Furthermore, when the adjacent normal cell 2 moves away from the malfunctioning cell 2, the connection between the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 on it is broken, thus disconnecting the circuit between the adjacent normal cell 2 and the malfunctioning cell 2, preventing the temperature of the malfunctioning cell 2 from continuing to rise, and ensuring the safe use of the battery module.

[0046] In this design, since the deformation unit unaffected by temperature does not deform, the elastic unit between two adjacent normal cells 2 remains in a compressed state. That is, the two adjacent normal cells 2 are not bounced apart and the circuit remains connected, which can effectively reduce the space occupied by the cells 2 in the first direction when they bounce apart under abnormal conditions.

[0047] Since the deformation unit is made of elastic material, and this elastic material can deform under the influence of temperature, in the compressed state, the two adjacent cells 2 may be pressed against the deformation unit by the pushing force of the sealing plate 4, causing the deformation unit to contract under force. This makes the deformation unit tend to extend relative to the initial state after the force effect of the sealing plate 4 (the pushing force is relatively small).

[0048] In some embodiments, in order to prevent two adjacent cells 2 from being popped apart and causing the connection between the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 to break, this application adopts a snap-fit ​​connection between the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 so that the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 can be opened by sufficient external force. The external force should be greater than the thrust when the deformation unit has an extension tendency, but less than the force exerted on the two adjacent cells 2 after the deformation unit is deformed by heat.

[0049] It is understandable that if two adjacent cells 2 do not compress the deformation unit, the first plate 21 and the second plate 22 can be snapped together or slidably engaged, and these are not restrictive.

[0050] The way the first pad 21 and the second pad 22 are connected by snapping is not limited. For example, the first pad 21 and the second pad 22 can be connected by snapping blocks and slots. That is, the first pad 21 is provided with a snapping block and the second pad 22 is provided with a slot. The snapping block can be inserted into the slot, and the outer periphery of the snapping block is provided with a protrusion. The inner wall of the slot is provided with a groove at the position corresponding to the protrusion.

[0051] In some implementations, the deformation unit can be a shape memory alloy, etc., which can be designed according to actual needs. Among them, a shape memory alloy is an alloy material that can completely eliminate the deformation that occurred at a lower temperature after heating and restore its original shape before deformation. That is, it is an alloy with a "memory" effect. It is a mature technology and will not be described in detail here.

[0052] In some implementations, such as Figure 7 As shown, heat-conducting plates 33 are connected to both ends of the first elastic member 3. The heat-conducting plates 33 are connected to the side of the battery cell 2 to increase the heat dissipation effect of the battery cell 2. Multiple first elastic members 3 are evenly distributed between the two heat-conducting plates 33 to ensure that the force applied by the first elastic member 3 to the battery cell 2 meets the requirements.

[0053] In some embodiments, the battery module further includes a first backup line. The first plate 21 and the second plate 22 are each provided with a line socket that communicates with the first backup line. The two ends of the first backup line are respectively plugged into the line sockets of the first plate 21 and the second plate 22 to realize the flow of current.

[0054] When the first elastic element 3 is configured as a deformation unit, the normal cells 2 on both sides of the abnormal cell 2 are popped apart, while the deformation unit unaffected by temperature does not deform. Therefore, the two adjacent normal cells 2 are not popped apart and the circuit remains connected. At this time, the circuit of the battery module can be restored by connecting the first pad 21 and the second pad 22 of the two normal cells 2 adjacent to the abnormal cell 2 through the first spare line, so that the battery module can be powered and used.

[0055] With this design, if one or more of the battery cells 2 fail, the first backup line can bypass the faulty battery cell 2 and connect to the normal battery cell 2, so that the battery module can be powered and used. Repair can be carried out at the appropriate time, avoiding the phenomenon that the equipment cannot be used due to the battery module's inability to supply power.

[0056] In some implementations, such as Figure 3 As shown, the battery module also includes a second backup line 6 and a control component that can control the connection and disconnection between the second backup line 6 and the battery cell 2, and is configured such that when the temperature of the battery cell 2 is abnormal, the control component can control the backup line to connect the normal battery cells 2 located on both sides of the abnormal battery cell 2 to restore the operation of the battery module.

[0057] With this design, when cell 2 fails, the second backup line 6 can cross the abnormal cell 2 and connect the normal cells 2 on both sides of the abnormal cell 2, thereby achieving automatic connection of the battery module circuit, reducing the power outage time of the battery module, and eliminating the need for manual connection of the circuit, thus increasing the convenience of using the battery module.

[0058] In some embodiments, the multiple parallel battery cells 2 include a first battery cell 2 located at the upstream end of the battery module, a tail battery cell 2 located at the downstream end of the battery module, and multiple intermediate battery cells 2 located between the first battery cell 2 and the tail battery cell 2. The first battery cell 2 is provided with a first tab 21 for connecting downstream, the tail battery cell 2 is provided with a second tab 22 for connecting upstream, and the intermediate battery cells 2 are provided with a first tab 21 and a second tab 22. The first tab 21 and the second tab 22 between two adjacent battery cells 2 are inserted and engaged along a first direction.

[0059] The second backup line 6 includes a first backup strip 61, a second backup strip 62, a second elastic element disposed on the first backup strip 61 and the second backup strip 62, and a power cord 63 connecting the first backup strip 61 and the second backup strip 62 in series. Each first strip 21 has a first backup strip 61 below it, and each second strip 22 has a second backup strip 62 below it. Each first backup strip 61 and each second backup strip 62 has a second elastic element and a magnetic attraction element below it. The second elastic element provides a force to the first backup strip 61 and the second backup strip 62 in the direction towards the first strip 21 and the second strip 22, while the magnetic attraction element provides a force to the first backup strip 61 and the second backup strip 62 away from the direction towards the first strip 21 and the second strip 22.

[0060] Power cord 63 includes, but is not limited to, the following connection methods:

[0061] There are multiple power cords 63, each power cord 63 crossing one battery cell 2 and connecting to the first spare plate 61 and the second spare plate 62 of the two adjacent battery cells 2. Specifically, the two ends of the power cord 63 are connected to the first spare plate 61 of the (i+1)th battery cell 2 and the second spare plate 62 of the (i-1)th battery cell 2, respectively.

[0062] When the battery module is in normal operating condition, the magnetic chuck operates. Under the action of the magnetic chuck, the first spare contact plate 61 and the second spare contact plate 62 overcome the elastic force of the second elastic element and separate from the first contact plate 21 and the second contact plate 22. When one of the battery cells 2 malfunctions, the two adjacent first elastic elements 3 push the two normal battery cells 2 apart, at which point the battery module circuit is disconnected. The control component controls the magnetic chuck on the two battery cells 2 adjacent to the malfunctioning battery cell 2 to de-energize. The corresponding first spare contact plate 61 and the second spare contact plate 62 connect with the first contact plate 21 and the second contact plate 22 under the elastic force of the second elastic element. At this time, the normal battery cells 2 located on both sides of the malfunctioning battery cell 2 are connected through the power flexible cable 63, ensuring the normal use of the battery module.

[0063] Understandably, when the upstream first cell 2 fails, the power cable 63, under the action of the magnetic attraction and the second elastic element, connects the second spare contact plate 62 of the second cell 2 to the power supply terminal of the battery module. When the downstream tail cell 2 fails, the power cable 63, under the action of the magnetic attraction and the second elastic element, connects the first spare contact plate 61 of the penultimate cell 2 to the power output terminal of the battery module.

[0064] This design is suitable for situations where one of the battery cells 2 in the battery module fails. When multiple battery cells 2 fail, the battery module cannot automatically connect to power. In this case, the faulty battery cell 2 can be bypassed by manually connecting to power.

[0065] In some implementations, combined Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the first plate 21 is provided with a plurality of slots 211 at intervals, and the second plate 22 is provided with a plurality of inserts 221 at intervals. The slots 211 and the inserts 221 correspond one-to-one and are engaged.

[0066] In this design, the insertion and engagement of the first plate 21 and the second plate 22 can increase the accuracy of the connection positioning, and can also increase the connection effect and contact area between the first plate 21 and the second plate 22, thus ensuring the overcurrent effect.

[0067] In some embodiments, the ends of the first pad 21 and the second pad 22 that are connected to the electrode have a rectangular sheet-like structure to increase the contact area and ensure the connection effect. The end of the first pad 21 that is connected to the second pad 22 has a concave-convex structure, and the end of the second pad 22 that is connected to the first pad 21 has a convex-concave interface, so that the first pad 21 and the second pad 22 can be inserted.

[0068] In some implementations, combined Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the first plate 21 has a three-layered convex-concave structure. The middle layer is a rectangular plate, the upper layer consists of multiple first locking plates 212 spaced apart along the horizontal direction, with a first locking groove 213 formed between two adjacent first locking plates 212, and the lower layer consists of multiple second locking plates 214 spaced apart along the horizontal direction, with a second locking groove 215 formed between two adjacent second locking plates 214. The first locking groove 213 and the second locking groove 215 together form the aforementioned slot 211. Correspondingly, the second plate 22 also has a three-layered convex-concave structure. The middle layer is a rectangular plate, the upper layer consists of multiple third locking plates 222 spaced apart along the horizontal direction, with a third locking groove 223 formed between two adjacent third locking plates 222, and the lower layer consists of multiple fourth locking plates 224 spaced apart along the horizontal direction, with a fourth locking groove 225 formed between two adjacent fourth locking plates 224. The third locking plates 222 and the fourth locking plates 224 together form the aforementioned insert 221. In this configuration, the first card plate 212 is positioned opposite to the third card slot 223, the second card plate 214 is positioned opposite to the fourth card slot 225, the first card slot 213 is positioned opposite to the third card plate 222, and the second card slot 215 is positioned opposite to the fourth card plate 224.

[0069] In this design, the first pad 21 and the second pad 22 are snap-fitted together, which increases the contact area between the first pad 21 and the second pad 22 while ensuring the connection effect, and allows the first pad 21 and the second pad 22 to fit together precisely.

[0070] In some implementations, combined Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figure 8 As shown, electromagnetic retainers 5 are provided on both sides of the open end 11 of the housing 1. The sealing plate 4 includes a U-shaped band 41, which is made of metal and its size is adapted to the size of the housing 1. The two sides of the U-shaped band 41 are respectively slidably engaged with the two electromagnetic retainers 5 along the first direction, and are configured such that the electromagnetic retainers 5 can demagnetize and release the U-shaped band 41 when the temperature of the battery cell 2 becomes abnormal.

[0071] Specifically, such as Figure 9As shown, the U-shaped band 41 includes a limiting plate 411 and two side plates 412 disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the limiting plate 411. The limiting plate 411 and the two side plates 412 form a U-shaped band 41 structure. The side plates 412 extend along a first direction, and the limiting plate 411 is located at the open end 11 of the housing 1, used to press against multiple battery cells 2 and multiple first elastic elements 3. The two side plates 412 are respectively slidably engaged with two electromagnetic retainers 5 along the first direction. When the electromagnetic retainers 5 are energized, they generate magnetic attraction to attract and fix the side plates 412. When the electromagnetic retainers 5 are de-energized, their magnetic force disappears, releasing the side plates 412, so that the U-shaped band 41 no longer restricts the battery cells 2, providing space for the battery cells 2 to spring open. Each cell 2 is equipped with a temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the corresponding cell 2 and feed it back to the controller. When the temperature sensor detects that the temperature of the cell 2 is greater than the preset temperature, the controller sends a stop power signal to the electromagnetic fixation device 5. The electromagnetic fixation device 5 demagnetizes after receiving the stop power signal.

[0072] The working principle of the battery module under this design is as follows:

[0073] When the temperature of a cell 2 in the battery module rises to the thermal runaway temperature threshold, the controller cuts off the circuit of the electromagnetic retainer 5. The silicon steel sheet 54 of the electromagnetic retainer 5 loses its magnetic force, the first elastic element 3 between the cells 2 releases kinetic energy, and the first tab 21 and the second tab 22 immediately disconnect. The circuit system of the battery module fails, thereby instantly controlling the occurrence of thermal runaway in the entire system. Moreover, this battery module is easy to disassemble, greatly improving battery utilization. The entire intelligent battery module reduces the risk of thermal runaway and maintenance costs, and the U-shaped strip 41 design facilitates heat dissipation.

[0074] In some implementations, combined Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the number of electromagnetic fasteners 5 on one side of the housing 1 is greater than or equal to two, and correspondingly, the number of U-shaped straps 41 is greater than or equal to two, to ensure the limiting effect of the U-shaped straps 41 at the end of the housing 1.

[0075] In some implementations, such as Figure 8As shown, the electromagnetic fastener 5 is provided with a groove 51 for inserting a U-shaped belt 41. The bottom of both sides of the U-shaped belt 41 is provided with arc-shaped sliders 4121 that slide in conjunction with the bottom of the groove 51. Specifically, one side of the electromagnetic fastener 5 is fixed to the side of the housing 1, and the other side of the electromagnetic fastener 5 is provided with a baffle 52. A groove 51 is formed between the baffle 52 and the side of the electromagnetic fastener 5 facing away from the housing 1. The side plate 412 is slidably disposed within the groove 51, and the bottom of the side plate 412 is provided with multiple arc-shaped sliders 4121. The arc-shaped sliders 4121 slide in conjunction with the bottom of the groove 51 to reduce the contact area between the side plate 412 and the groove 51, thereby reducing friction and facilitating the movement of the entire U-shaped belt 41 along the direction facing away from the housing 1.

[0076] In some embodiments, the bottom of the electromagnetic fastener 5 is provided with a base plate 53 on the side facing the limiting plate 411. The base plate 53 and the side plate 412 form a support opening. The two ends of the limiting plate 411 can be located in the support opening, making the overall structure more compact. When the limiting plate 411 is detached from the end of the housing 1, the U-shaped plate can always be in the position of the support opening, avoiding the phenomenon that the U-shaped band 41 is detached from the housing 1.

[0077] In some embodiments, a silicon steel sheet 54 is provided on the side of the electromagnetic retainer 5 facing away from the housing 1. The silicon steel sheet 54 is arranged opposite to the baffle 52. The side plate 412 inserted into the slide groove 51 contacts the silicon steel sheet 54. When the electromagnetic retainer 5 is energized, the silicon steel sheet 54 can firmly attract the side plate 412. The number of silicon steel sheets 54 can be designed according to actual needs to meet the contact area requirements of the side plate 412.

[0078] Understandably, the design of the electromagnetic retainer 5 and the U-shaped belt 41 should ensure that the U-shaped belt 41 is stably placed on the electromagnetic retainer 5 in any working state of the battery module. The materials of the base plate 53 and the baffle 52 should be consistent with the shell material of the electromagnetic retainer 5 to increase the connection effect.

[0079] In some implementations, such as Figure 4 As shown, a rectangular slot 12 is provided at the position corresponding to the battery cell 2 on the housing 1. The area of ​​the rectangular slot 12 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the battery cell 2. Specifically, the rectangular slot 12 corresponds one-to-one with the battery cell 2 to ensure the heat dissipation effect of the battery cell 2.

[0080] In some embodiments, a vent 13 is provided at a position corresponding to the first elastic member 3 on the housing 1. Specifically, there are multiple vents 13, which are evenly distributed on two corresponding side walls of the housing 1. The vents 13 adopt a strip-shaped structure to facilitate heat dissipation of the battery cell 2.

[0081] In some embodiments, the housing 1 is provided with the aforementioned rectangular groove 12 and ventilation opening 13, and the material of the housing 1 can be metal or plastic, provided that the structural strength is satisfied, and can be designed according to actual needs.

[0082] In some implementations, it is understood that, in order to further enhance the safety of use, an insulating layer may be provided at the exposed portion or metal contact point of the battery module to ensure the safety of the battery module in use.

[0083] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0084] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features of the invention described herein.

Claims

1. A battery module, characterized in that, The device includes a housing (1) and multiple battery cells (2) arranged side-by-side inside the housing (1). A first elastic element (3) is provided between two adjacent battery cells (2). The first elastic element (3) can apply an elastic force to the battery cell (2) in a first direction. The housing (1) has an opening on one side along the first direction. The opening end (11) of the housing (1) is sealed by a sealing plate (4). The sealing plate (4) can detach from the opening end (11) of the housing (1) when the temperature of the battery cell (2) becomes abnormal. The device is configured as follows: Without the restraint of the sealing plate (4), at least the first elastic member (3) adjacent to the abnormal cell (2) can extend to pop open the normal cell (2) and disconnect the connection between the abnormal cell (2) and the normal cell (2).

2. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrodes of two adjacent cells (2) are respectively provided with a first tab (21) and a second tab (22). The first tab (21) and the second tab (22) are engaged along the first direction, and the first tab (21) and the second tab (22) can be disconnected when the two adjacent cells (2) are released.

3. The battery module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first elastic element (3) includes a first spring disposed between two adjacent battery cells (2). When the sealing plate (4) is removed, the first springs can spring open the two adjacent battery cells (2) and disconnect the connection between the first plate (21) and the second plate (22).

4. The battery module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first elastic element (3) includes a deformation unit that can extend along the first direction when the temperature of the adjacent cell (2) becomes abnormal, so as to pop open the adjacent normal cell (2) and disconnect the connection between the first plate (21) and the second plate (22).

5. The battery module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The battery module also includes a first backup line, and both the first plate (21) and the second plate (22) are provided with line sockets that communicate with the first backup line.

6. The battery module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The battery module further includes a second backup line (6) and a control component capable of controlling the connection and disconnection between the second backup line (6) and the battery cell (2), and is configured as follows: When the temperature of the battery cell (2) becomes abnormal, the control component can control the backup line to connect the normal battery cells (2) located on both sides of the abnormal battery cell (2) to restore the operation of the battery module.

7. The battery module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first plate (21) is provided with a plurality of slots (211) spaced apart, and the second plate (22) is provided with a plurality of inserts (221) spaced apart. The slots (211) and the inserts (221) correspond one to one and are engaged.

8. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Electromagnetic fasteners (5) are provided on both sides of the open end (11) of the box (1). The sealing plate (4) includes a U-shaped band (41), and the U-shaped band (41) is made of metal. The two sides of the U-shaped band (41) are respectively slidably engaged with the two electromagnetic fasteners (5) along the first direction, and are configured as follows: The electromagnetic retainer (5) can demagnetize and release the U-shaped belt (41) when the temperature of the battery cell (2) becomes abnormal.

9. The battery module according to claim 8, characterized in that, The electromagnetic fastener (5) is provided with a groove (51) into which the U-shaped belt (41) can be inserted, and the bottom of both sides of the U-shaped belt (41) is provided with an arc-shaped slider (4121) that slides in cooperation with the bottom of the groove (51).

10. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, A rectangular groove (12) is provided at the position corresponding to the battery cell (2) of the housing (1), and the area of ​​the rectangular groove (12) is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the battery cell (2); And / or, the housing (1) is provided with a vent (13) at a position corresponding to the first elastic member (3).

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