Cell casing

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of power battery technology and provides a cell housing. The cell housing includes a housing body, which includes two opposing sidewalls and end walls respectively connected to the two ends of the sidewalls. The two sidewalls and the two end walls together form a receiving space for accommodating an electrode assembly. At least one sidewall is provided with a first cooling structure, which includes a first cooling channel, a first liquid inlet, and a first liquid outlet. The first liquid inlet and the first liquid outlet are both connected to the first cooling channel, which is located within the sidewall. The first liquid inlet and the first liquid outlet are both located on the outer surface of the sidewall. The cell housing provided by this invention can directly cool the electrode assembly located within the receiving space using the first cooling structure, greatly shortening the heat exchange path and improving the cooling effect. Furthermore, by using the cell housing itself as a cold plate, there is no need to increase battery redundancy design, resulting in a simple and compact structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of power battery technology, and in particular to a cell housing. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid iteration of new energy vehicle technology, the demand for fast charging performance of power batteries is also constantly increasing. As the fast charging current increases, the heat generation increases exponentially with the square of the current. Moreover, the industry is developing towards larger capacity and higher charge levels, resulting in already very large charging currents. Coupled with the exponential heat generation, the development of supercharging technology presents unprecedented challenges to cell cooling.

[0003] In existing technologies, the industry typically employs different cooling plate designs to address the issue of excessive heat generation during supercharging. For example, cells with Z-shaped terminals utilize dual-large-area cooling, while cells with terminals on the sides employ dual-side cooling or even immersion oil cooling. However, existing battery cooling designs suffer from drawbacks such as long heat dissipation paths, poor heat dissipation efficiency, and increased battery redundancy. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a battery cell housing to address the shortcomings of existing battery cooling designs, such as long heat dissipation paths, poor heat dissipation effects, and increased battery redundancy.

[0005] The first aspect of the present invention provides a battery cell housing, comprising: a housing body, the housing body including two opposing side walls and end walls respectively connected to the two ends of the two side walls, the two side walls and the two end walls forming a receiving space for accommodating an electrode assembly.

[0006] At least one of the sidewalls is provided with a first cooling structure, the first cooling structure including a first cooling channel, a first liquid inlet and a first liquid outlet, the first liquid inlet and the first liquid outlet are both connected to the first cooling channel, the first cooling channel is located inside the sidewall, and the first liquid inlet and the first liquid outlet are both located on the outer surface of the sidewall.

[0007] According to the battery cell housing provided by the present invention, both sidewalls are provided with the first cooling structure.

[0008] According to the battery cell housing provided by the present invention, along the projection direction perpendicular to the sidewall, the first cooling channel, the first liquid inlet and the first liquid outlet of the two sidewalls all coincide.

[0009] According to the battery cell housing provided by the present invention, the first cooling channel includes a first main channel, a plurality of first branch channels and a second main channel connected in sequence. The inlet end of the first main channel is connected to the first liquid inlet, and the outlet end of the second main channel is connected to the first liquid outlet. The first branch channels extend along the length direction of the sidewall, and the plurality of first branch channels are spaced apart along the width direction of the sidewall. Alternatively, the first cooling channel includes a first branch cavity, a first confluence cavity and a plurality of first cooling cavities. Along the length direction of the sidewall, the first branch cavity and the first confluence cavity are disposed opposite to each other at both ends of the sidewall. The first cooling cavities extend along the length direction of the sidewall, and the plurality of first cooling cavities are arranged adjacent to each other along the width direction of the sidewall. The first liquid inlet, the first branch cavity, the first cooling cavity, the first confluence cavity and the first liquid outlet are connected in sequence. Alternatively, the first cooling channel is disposed within the sidewall.

[0010] According to the battery cell housing provided by the present invention, a plurality of first dividing ribs are provided at intervals along the width direction of the sidewall, the first dividing ribs extend along the length direction of the sidewall, and a first cooling cavity is formed between adjacent first dividing ribs; along the length direction of the sidewall, a plurality of first notches are provided at intervals along the first dividing ribs to connect adjacent first cooling cavities.

[0011] According to the battery cell housing provided by the present invention, at least one of the end walls is provided with a second cooling structure. The second cooling structure includes a second cooling channel, a second liquid inlet and a second liquid outlet. The second liquid inlet and the second liquid outlet are both connected to the second cooling channel. The second cooling channel is disposed inside the end wall. The second liquid inlet and the second liquid outlet are both disposed on the outer surface of the end wall.

[0012] According to the battery cell housing provided by the present invention, both end walls are provided with the second cooling structure.

[0013] According to the battery cell housing provided by the present invention, along the projection direction perpendicular to the end wall, the second cooling channel, the second liquid inlet and the second liquid outlet of the two end walls all coincide.

[0014] According to the battery cell housing provided by the present invention, the second cooling channel includes a third main channel, a plurality of second branch channels, and a fourth main channel connected in sequence. The inlet end of the third main channel is connected to the second liquid inlet, and the outlet end of the fourth main channel is connected to the second liquid outlet. The second branch channels extend along the length direction of the end wall, and the plurality of second branch channels are spaced apart along the width direction of the end wall. Alternatively, the second cooling channel includes a second branch cavity, a second confluence cavity, and a plurality of second cooling cavities. Along the length direction of the end wall, the second branch cavity and the second confluence cavity are disposed opposite to each other at both ends of the end wall. The second cooling cavities extend along the length direction of the end wall, and the plurality of second cooling cavities are arranged adjacent to each other along the width direction of the end wall. The second liquid inlet, the second branch cavity, the second cooling cavity, the second confluence cavity, and the second liquid outlet are connected in sequence. Alternatively, the second cooling channel is coiled inside the end wall.

[0015] According to the battery cell housing provided by the present invention, a plurality of second partition ribs are provided at intervals along the width direction of the end wall, the second partition ribs extend along the length direction of the end wall, and a second cooling cavity is formed between adjacent second partition ribs; along the length direction of the end wall, a plurality of second notches are provided at intervals along the second partition ribs to connect adjacent second cooling cavities.

[0016] A second aspect of the present invention provides a battery cell, comprising: a battery cell housing, a top cover, and an electrode assembly, wherein the top cover is disposed in the battery cell housing, and the electrode assembly is disposed in the receiving space.

[0017] A third aspect of the present invention provides a battery pack, comprising: at least one battery module, the battery module comprising a plurality of adjacently arranged battery cells.

[0018] The cell casing provided by this invention, by providing a first cooling structure on at least one side wall, can directly cool the electrode assembly located within the housing space using the first cooling structure, greatly shortening the heat exchange path and improving the cooling effect. Furthermore, the cell casing provided by this invention utilizes the cell casing itself as a cold plate, eliminating the need for additional battery redundancy design, resulting in a simple and compact structure.

[0019] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0021] Figure 1 This is an assembly diagram of the battery cell provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 2 This is an exploded schematic diagram of a battery cell provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the battery cell casing provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the flow direction of coolant in the battery cell housing provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 5 This is one of the schematic diagrams of the first cooling channel inside the side wall of the battery cell housing provided in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 6 This is the second schematic diagram of the first cooling channel inside the side wall of the battery cell housing provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 7 This is the third schematic diagram of the first cooling channel inside the side wall of the battery cell housing provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the first cooling cavity inside the side wall of the battery cell housing provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 9 This is the fourth schematic diagram of the first cooling channel inside the side wall of the battery cell housing provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 10 This is one of the schematic diagrams of the second cooling channel inside the middle wall of the battery cell housing provided in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 11 This is the second schematic diagram of the second cooling channel inside the middle wall of the battery cell housing provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 12 This is the third schematic diagram of the second cooling channel inside the middle wall of the battery cell housing provided in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure label: 100. Shell body; 110. Side wall; 111. First cooling structure; 1111. First cooling channel; 1111a. First main channel; 1111b. First branch channel; 1111c. Second main channel; 1111d. First branch cavity; 1111e. First confluence cavity; 1111f. First cooling cavity; 1111g. First partition rib; 1111h. First notch; 1112. First liquid inlet; 1113. First liquid outlet; 12 0. End wall; 121. Second cooling structure; 1211. Second cooling channel; 1211a. Third main channel; 1211b. Second branch channel; 1211c. Fourth main channel; 1211d. Second branch cavity; 1211e. Second confluence cavity; 1211f. Second cooling cavity; 1211g. Second partition rib; 1211h. Second notch; 1212. Second liquid inlet; 1213. Second liquid outlet; 200. Top cover; 300. Electrode assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0035] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0036] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0037] In embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0038] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0039] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 12 The present invention describes the battery cell housing provided by the present invention.

[0040] See Figures 1 to 8 As shown, the battery cell housing provided in this embodiment of the invention includes: a housing body 100, the housing body 100 including two oppositely arranged side walls 110 and end walls 120 respectively connected to the two ends of the two side walls 110, the two side walls 110 and the two end walls 120 together form a receiving space for accommodating the electrode assembly 300.

[0041] At least one sidewall 110 is provided with a first cooling structure 111. The first cooling structure 111 includes a first cooling channel 1111, a first liquid inlet 1112 and a first liquid outlet 1113. The first liquid inlet 1112 and the first liquid outlet 1113 are both connected to the first cooling channel 1111. The first cooling channel 1111 is located inside the sidewall 110, and the first liquid inlet 1112 and the first liquid outlet 1113 are both located on the outer surface of the sidewall 110.

[0042] In traditional battery structures, the heat exchange path is typically electrode assembly 300 → cell housing → thermally conductive structural adhesive → cold plate. This heat exchange path is relatively long and requires additional redundancy design to achieve battery cooling. In this application, by providing a first cooling structure 111 on at least one sidewall 110, the electrode assembly 300 located within the housing space can be directly cooled using the first cooling structure 111. The heat exchange path is switched to electrode assembly 300 → housing body 100, thereby greatly shortening the heat exchange path and improving the cooling effect. In addition, the cell housing provided by this invention utilizes the cell housing itself as a cold plate, eliminating the need for additional battery redundancy design, resulting in a simple and compact structure.

[0043] In addition, since at least one side wall 110 of the housing body 100 is provided with a first cooling structure 111, the thickness of the side wall 110 (e.g., greater than or equal to 2 mm) is greater than that of the traditional cell housing (about 0.5 mm), thus it has better strength and rigidity, and has better structural stability when dealing with conditions such as whole-pack vibration, impact, bottom ball strike, extrusion, and collision.

[0044] See Figures 1 to 3 As shown, specifically, the housing body 100 includes two opposing sidewalls 110 and endwalls 120 respectively connected to the two ends of the two sidewalls 110. The two sidewalls 110 of the housing body 100 specifically refer to the sidewalls 110 with larger areas (i.e., the large surfaces), and the two endwalls 120 of the housing body 100 specifically refer to the two endwalls 120 with smaller areas.

[0045] The fact that at least one sidewall 110 is provided with a first cooling structure 111 indicates that the first cooling structure 111 can be provided on a single sidewall 110 or on both sidewalls 110 simultaneously, depending on actual needs, without any particular limitation. For example, when the battery cell has high heat dissipation requirements, the first cooling structure 111 can be provided on both sidewalls 110 simultaneously; correspondingly, when the heat dissipation requirements of the battery cell are low, the first cooling structure 111 can be provided on only a single sidewall 110.

[0046] When both side walls 110 of the housing body 100 are provided with a first cooling structure 111, the number of first cooling structures 111 in operation can be adjusted according to the heat generation of the battery cell. For example, when the battery cell has a high workload and generates a large amount of heat, the first cooling structures 111 on both side walls 110 can be activated simultaneously to improve heat dissipation and keep the battery cell temperature within a safe range. When the battery cell has a light workload and generates less heat, only the first cooling structure 111 on one side wall 110 can be activated to save energy consumption.

[0047] The first cooling structure 111 includes a first cooling channel 1111, a first liquid inlet 1112, and a first liquid outlet 1113. The first liquid inlet 1112 and the first liquid outlet 1113 are both connected to the first cooling channel 1111. The first cooling channel 1111 is located inside the side wall 110, and the first liquid inlet 1112 and the first liquid outlet 1113 are both located on the outer surface of the side wall 110.

[0048] The first cooling channel 1111 can take various forms, such as straight, serpentine (S-shaped), multi-channel parallel, and microchannel types. Straight channels have a simple structure and are easy to manufacture; serpentine channels improve heat dissipation efficiency by increasing the flow path; multi-channel parallel channels provide uniform cooling using multiple interconnected channels; and microchannels achieve efficient heat exchange through small channels. During operation, the first inlet 1112 and the first outlet 1113 must be connected to the coolant circulation system. Coolant enters the cooling channel through the first inlet 1112, exchanges heat with the sidewall 110 within the channel, and its temperature rises after absorbing heat. Subsequently, the coolant flows out through the first outlet 1113, returning to the circulation system for cooling, ready for the next cycle.

[0049] The first cooling channel 1111 can be formed by stamping a metal sheet (such as an aluminum sheet) or extruding a profile.

[0050] Connecting components can be installed at both the first liquid inlet 1112 and the first liquid outlet 1113 to connect with the coolant circulation system. For example, the inlet and outlet ends of the first cooling channel 1111 are both facing the outer surface of the side wall 110, and the connecting components can be sealed to the corresponding ports of the first cooling channel 1111 by welding.

[0051] See Figures 1 to 4 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, both sidewalls 110 are provided with a first cooling structure 111.

[0052] By providing a first cooling structure 111 on both side walls 110 of the housing body 100, the heat exchange and cooling efficiency of the battery cell can be improved, and the uniformity of heat exchange and cooling can be improved, so as to avoid local overheating or insufficient cooling of the battery cell, thereby extending the battery cell life.

[0053] Specifically, since the two sidewalls 110 are arranged opposite each other, the electrode assembly 300 is located within the receiving space and between the two sidewalls 110. When coolant flows simultaneously in the first cooling channels 1111 within the two sidewalls 110, the coolant can be evenly distributed on both sides of the electrode assembly 300 and effectively remove the heat generated on the surface of the cell through convection, so that the cell can achieve balanced heat dissipation and avoid the problems of local overheating or insufficient cooling.

[0054] It should be noted that the arrangement of the first cooling channel 1111, the first liquid inlet 1112, and the first liquid outlet 1113 in the first cooling structure 111 corresponding to the two sidewalls 110 can be the same or different, and there is no special limitation on this. For example, the first cooling channel 1111 can be set in the same layout on the two sidewalls 110 to ensure that the flow path of the coolant is completely symmetrical, thereby achieving a uniform cooling effect; of course, depending on specific needs (such as the thickness limit of the corresponding sidewall 110, etc.), the first cooling structure 111 corresponding to the two sidewalls 110 can adopt different layout designs. For example, the first cooling channel 1111 corresponding to one sidewall 110 can be straight, and the first cooling channel 1111 corresponding to the other sidewall 110 can be serpentine (S-shaped coil).

[0055] See Figures 1 to 4 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, along the projection direction perpendicular to the sidewall 110, the first cooling channel 1111, the first liquid inlet 1112 and the first liquid outlet 1113 of the two sidewalls 110 all overlap.

[0056] By setting the first cooling channels 1111, the first liquid inlet 1112, and the first liquid outlet 1113 of the two sidewalls 110 to be correspondingly overlapping along the projection direction perpendicular to the sidewall 110, the consistency and symmetry of the coolant flow path can be achieved, thereby further improving the temperature uniformity of cell cooling.

[0057] For example, when the first cooling channel 1111 corresponding to one of the sidewalls 110 is straight, the first cooling channel 1111 corresponding to the other sidewall 110 is also straight in the same arrangement. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure that the two first liquid inlets 1112 and the two first liquid outlets 1113 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the thickness direction of the shell body 100.

[0058] During operation, coolant flows in simultaneously from both first inlets 1112 and passes through the side wall 110 of the housing body 100 at the same flow rate and velocity, and then flows out simultaneously from both first outlets 1113. This ensures that the coolant is evenly distributed and flows along the designed flow path, guaranteeing uniform temperature control in the regions on both sides of the electrode assembly 300.

[0059] See Figure 5As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the first cooling channel 1111 includes a first main channel 1111a, a plurality of first branch channels 1111b and a second main channel 1111c connected in sequence. The inlet end of the first main channel 1111a is connected to the first liquid inlet 1112, and the outlet end of the second main channel 1111c is connected to the first liquid outlet 1113. The first branch channels 1111b extend along the length direction of the sidewall 110, and the plurality of first branch channels 1111b are spaced apart along the width direction of the sidewall 110.

[0060] By setting the first cooling channel 1111 to a structure including a first main channel 1111a, multiple first branch channels 1111b and a second main channel 1111c connected in sequence, the uniformity and efficiency of coolant flow can be effectively improved, and the structure of the first cooling channel 1111 is simple and easy to process and manufacture.

[0061] Specifically, after the coolant flows into the first cooling channel 1111 through the first inlet 1112, it is first diverted by the first main channel 1111a, which guides the coolant into each of the first branch channels 1111b. Since each of the first branch channels 1111b extends along the length of the sidewall 110 and multiple first branch channels 1111b are spaced apart along the width of the sidewall 110, each of the first branch channels 1111b can cover different areas of the sidewall 110 and carry away the heat generated by the electrode assembly 300, which significantly improves the heat exchange efficiency. The coolant after heat exchange converges in the second main channel 1111c and finally flows out through the first outlet 1113.

[0062] It should be noted that the number of first branch channels 1111b can be set according to the width of the corresponding sidewall 110. For example, when the width of the corresponding sidewall 110 is large, a larger number of first branch channels 1111b can be set to ensure that the coolant can evenly cover the entire sidewall 110 area, thereby improving the cooling effect. Conversely, when the width of the corresponding sidewall 110 is small, the number of first branch channels 1111b can be appropriately reduced to optimize the flow channel design and simplify the flow channel structure.

[0063] During processing, the first cooling channel 1111 can be machined on the side wall 110 by using aluminum extrusion combined with milling.

[0064] See Figures 6 to 8As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the first cooling channel 1111 includes a first diverting cavity 1111d, a first confluence cavity 1111e, and a plurality of first cooling cavities 1111f. Along the length direction of the sidewall 110, the first diverting cavity 1111d and the first confluence cavity 1111e are disposed opposite to each other at both ends of the sidewall 110. The first cooling cavities 1111f extend along the length direction of the sidewall 110, and along the width direction of the sidewall 110, the plurality of first cooling cavities 1111f are disposed adjacent to each other. The first liquid inlet 1112, the first diverting cavity 1111d, the first cooling cavity 1111f, the first confluence cavity 1111e, and the first liquid outlet 1113 are sequentially connected.

[0065] By setting the first cooling channel 1111 to a structure including a first branching cavity 1111d, a first confluence cavity 1111e, and multiple first cooling cavities 1111f, the first cooling channel 1111 can have sufficient heat dissipation area, improve heat dissipation efficiency, and its structure is simple and easy to process and manufacture.

[0066] Specifically, after the coolant enters through the first inlet 1112, it can be distributed to each of the first cooling chambers 1111f through the first distribution chamber 1111d. As the coolant flows through each of the first cooling chambers 1111f, it can exchange heat with the sidewall 110, carrying away the heat from the sidewall 110. Then, it flows through the outlet end of the first cooling chamber 1111f to the first confluence chamber 1111e and is discharged through the first outlet 1113. The first cooling chamber 1111f is flat, has a large contact area, and provides sufficient space for coolant.

[0067] See Figure 6 As shown, in order to facilitate the diversion and convergence of coolant, the first inlet 1112 can be located in the middle of the area where the first diversion cavity 1111d is located on the side wall 110, and the first outlet 1113 can be located in the middle of the area where the first convergence cavity 1111e is located on the side wall 110.

[0068] See Figure 7 As shown, in order to facilitate the optimization of the coolant flow path, the first inlet 1112 can be located at one end of the side wall 110 in the area where the first diverter cavity 1111d is located, and the first outlet 1113 can be located at the other end of the side wall 110 in the area where the first confluence cavity 1111e is located.

[0069] During processing, the first cooling cavity 1111f can be machined on the side wall 110 using aluminum extrusion process, and then the first diversion cavity 1111d and the first confluence cavity 1111e can be machined at both ends of the side wall 110 in the length direction by milling process.

[0070] See Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of first partition ribs 1111g are provided at intervals in the sidewall 110 along the width direction of the sidewall 110, the first partition ribs 1111g extend along the length direction of the sidewall 110, and a first cooling cavity 1111f is formed between adjacent first partition ribs 1111g; a plurality of first notches 1111h are provided at intervals in the first partition ribs 1111g along the length direction of the sidewall 110 to connect adjacent first cooling cavities 1111f.

[0071] Along the width direction of the sidewall 110, by providing multiple first dividing ribs 1111g at intervals within the sidewall 110, multiple adjacent first cooling chambers 1111f can be formed within the sidewall 110. The first dividing ribs 1111g can also enhance the structural strength of the sidewall and improve its resistance to deformation under stress. Simultaneously, along the length direction of the sidewall 110, the first dividing ribs 1111g are provided with multiple first notches 1111h at intervals, which can connect adjacent first cooling chambers 1111f, allowing the coolant within adjacent first cooling chambers 1111f to circulate and improving the uniformity of cooling of the sidewall 110.

[0072] See Figure 9 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, a first cooling channel 1111 is disposed within the side wall 110.

[0073] By placing the first cooling channel 1111 within the side wall 110, the heat exchange time between the coolant and the side wall 110 during flow is increased, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency. Simultaneously, the coolant can also contact and exchange heat with a larger area of ​​the side wall 110, enabling faster heat removal and ensuring the equipment temperature is maintained within a suitable range.

[0074] Specifically, the first cooling channel 1111 can be arranged in a serpentine (S-shaped) or rotary coiling manner, as long as it can ensure smooth flow of coolant while covering a large area of ​​the side wall 110. There are no special limitations on this. During processing, the first cooling channel 1111 of the set shape can be milled on one end face of the side wall 110 first, and then the end face can be sealed by welding a sealing plate.

[0075] See Figures 10 to 12 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, at least one end wall 120 is provided with a second cooling structure 121. The second cooling structure 121 includes a second cooling channel 1211, a second liquid inlet 1212 and a second liquid outlet 1213. The second liquid inlet 1212 and the second liquid outlet 1213 are both connected to the second cooling channel 1211. The second cooling channel 1211 is disposed inside the end wall 120, and the second liquid inlet 1212 and the second liquid outlet 1213 are both disposed on the outer surface of the end wall 120.

[0076] By providing a second cooling structure 121 on at least one end wall 120, the electrode assembly 300 located in the accommodating space can be directly cooled using the second cooling structure 121, and the heat exchange path can also be switched to electrode assembly 300 → housing body 100, thereby greatly shortening the heat exchange path and improving the cooling effect.

[0077] The first cooling structure 111 and the second cooling structure 121 can cool the battery cell simultaneously or independently. For example, when the battery cell has a high workload and generates a large amount of heat, both the first cooling structure 111 and the second cooling structure 121 can be activated simultaneously for cooling. When the battery cell has a light workload and generates less heat, only the first cooling structure 111 or the second cooling structure 121 can be activated for cooling. Furthermore, considering that the area of ​​the end wall 120 is smaller than the area of ​​the side wall 110, under otherwise unchanged conditions, the cooling efficiency of the second cooling structure 121 is lower than that of the first cooling structure 111. Therefore, when the battery cell load is sufficiently low, only the second cooling structure 121 can be activated for cooling, thus saving energy while cooling the battery cell.

[0078] Similarly, the fact that at least one end wall 120 is provided with a second cooling structure 121 indicates that the second cooling structure 121 can be provided on a single end wall 120 or on both end walls 120 simultaneously, without any special limitation.

[0079] The second cooling channel 1211 can also be formed by stamping metal sheets (such as aluminum sheets) or extruding profiles.

[0080] See Figures 10 to 12 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, both end walls 120 are provided with a second cooling structure 121.

[0081] By providing a second cooling structure 121 on both end walls 120 of the housing body 100, the heat exchange and cooling efficiency of the battery cell can be improved, and the uniformity of heat exchange and cooling can be improved, so as to avoid local overheating or insufficient cooling of the battery cell, thereby extending the battery cell life.

[0082] Specifically, since the two end walls 120 are arranged opposite each other, the electrode assembly 300 is located within the accommodating space and between the two end walls 120. When coolant flows simultaneously in the second cooling channels 1211 within the two end walls 120, the coolant can be evenly distributed on both sides of the electrode assembly 300 and effectively remove the heat generated on the surface of the cell through convection effect, so that the cell can achieve balanced heat dissipation and avoid the problems of local overheating or insufficient cooling.

[0083] It should be noted that the arrangement of the second cooling channel 1211, the second liquid inlet 1212, and the second liquid outlet 1213 in the second cooling structure 121 corresponding to the two end walls 120 can be the same or different, and no special limitation is made in this regard. For example, the second cooling channel 1211 can be set in the same layout on both end walls 120 to ensure that the flow path of the coolant is completely symmetrical, thereby achieving a uniform cooling effect; of course, depending on specific needs (such as the thickness limit of the corresponding end wall 120, etc.), the second cooling structure 121 corresponding to the two end walls 120 can adopt different layout designs. For example, the second cooling channel 1211 corresponding to one end wall 120 can be straight, and the second cooling channel 1211 corresponding to the other end wall 120 can be serpentine (S-shaped coil).

[0084] See Figures 10 to 12 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, along the projection direction perpendicular to the end wall 120, the second cooling channels 1211, the second liquid inlet 1212 and the second liquid outlet 1213 of the two end walls 120 all coincide.

[0085] By setting the second cooling channels 1211, the second liquid inlet 1212, and the second liquid outlet 1213 of the two end walls 120 to be correspondingly overlapping along the projection direction perpendicular to the end wall 120, the consistency and symmetry of the coolant flow path can be achieved, thereby further improving the temperature uniformity of cell cooling.

[0086] For example, when the second cooling channel 1211 corresponding to one end wall 120 is straight, the second cooling channel 1211 corresponding to the other end wall 120 is also straight in the same arrangement. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure that the two second liquid inlets 1212 and the two second liquid outlets 1213 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the width direction of the housing body 100.

[0087] During operation, coolant flows in simultaneously from the two second inlets 1212 and passes through the side wall 110 of the housing body 100 at the same flow rate and velocity, and then flows out simultaneously from the two second outlets 1213. This ensures that the coolant is evenly distributed and flows along the designed flow path, ensuring that the temperature in both areas of the electrode assembly 300 is uniformly controlled.

[0088] See Figure 10As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the second cooling channel 1211 includes a third main channel 1211a, a plurality of second branch channels 1211b and a fourth main channel 1211c connected in sequence. The inlet end of the third main channel 1211a is connected to the second liquid inlet 1212, and the outlet end of the fourth main channel 1211c is connected to the second liquid outlet 1213. The second branch channels 1211b extend along the length direction of the end wall 120, and the plurality of second branch channels 1211b are spaced apart along the width direction of the end wall 120.

[0089] By configuring the second cooling channel 1211 into a structure comprising a third main channel 1211a, multiple second branch channels 1211b, and a fourth main channel 1211c connected in sequence, the uniformity and efficiency of coolant flow can be effectively improved, and the structure of the second cooling channel 1211 is simple and easy to process and manufacture.

[0090] Specifically, after the coolant flows into the second cooling channel 1211 through the second inlet 1212, it is first diverted by the third main channel 1211a, which guides the coolant into each of the second branch channels 1211b. Since each of the second branch channels 1211b extends along the length of the end wall 120 and multiple second branch channels 1211b are spaced apart along the width of the end wall 120, each of the second branch channels 1211b can cover different areas of the end wall 120 and carry away the heat generated by the electrode assembly 300, which significantly improves the heat exchange efficiency. The coolant after heat exchange converges in the fourth main channel 1211c and finally flows out through the first outlet 1113.

[0091] It should be noted that the number of second branch channels 1211b can be set according to the width of the corresponding end wall 120. For example, when the width of the corresponding end wall 120 is large, a larger number of second branch channels 1211b can be set to ensure that the coolant can evenly cover the entire end wall 120 area, thereby improving the cooling effect. Conversely, when the width of the corresponding end wall 120 is small, the number of second branch channels 1211b can be appropriately reduced to optimize the flow channel design and simplify the flow channel structure.

[0092] See Figure 11 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the second cooling channel 1211 includes a second diversion cavity 1211d, a second confluence cavity 1211e, and a plurality of second cooling cavities 1211f. Along the length direction of the end wall 120, the second diversion cavity 1211d and the second confluence cavity 1211e are disposed opposite to each other at both ends of the end wall 120. The second cooling cavities 1211f extend along the length direction of the end wall 120, and along the width direction of the end wall 120, the plurality of second cooling cavities 1211f are disposed adjacent to each other. The second liquid inlet 1212, the second diversion cavity 1211d, the second cooling cavity 1211f, the second confluence cavity 1211e, and the second liquid outlet 1213 are sequentially connected.

[0093] By setting the second cooling channel 1211 to a structure including a second branch cavity 1211d, a second confluence cavity 1211e and multiple second cooling cavities 1211f, the second cooling channel 1211 can have sufficient heat dissipation area, improve heat dissipation efficiency, and its structure is simple and easy to process and manufacture.

[0094] Specifically, after the coolant enters through the second inlet 1212, it can be distributed to each of the second cooling chambers 1211f through the second distribution chamber 1211d. As the coolant flows through each of the second cooling chambers 1211f, it can exchange heat with the end wall 120, carrying away the heat from the end wall 120. Then, it flows through the outlet end of the second cooling chamber 1211f to the second confluence chamber 1211e and is discharged through the second outlet 1213. Similarly, the second cooling chamber 1211f is flat, with a large contact area and sufficient space for coolant to be contained.

[0095] See Figure 11 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of second partition ribs 1211g are provided at intervals in the end wall 120 along the width direction of the end wall 120, the second partition ribs 1211g extend along the length direction of the end wall 120, and a second cooling cavity 1211f is formed between adjacent second partition ribs 1211g; a plurality of second notches 1211h are provided at intervals in the second partition ribs 1211g along the length direction of the end wall 120 to connect adjacent second cooling cavities 1211f.

[0096] Along the width direction of the end wall 120, by providing multiple second partition ribs 1211g at intervals within the end wall 120, multiple adjacent second cooling chambers 1211f can be formed within the end wall 120. The second partition ribs 1211g can also enhance the structural strength of the end wall 120, increasing its resistance to deformation under stress. Simultaneously, along the length direction of the end wall 120, the second partition ribs 1211g are provided with multiple second notches 1211h at intervals, which can connect adjacent second cooling chambers 1211f, allowing coolant to circulate within them and improving the uniformity of cooling of the end wall 120.

[0097] See Figure 12 As shown, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the second cooling channel 1211 is disposed within the end wall 120.

[0098] By placing the second cooling channel 1211 within the end wall 120, the heat exchange time between the coolant and the end wall 120 during flow is increased, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency. Simultaneously, the coolant can also contact a larger area of ​​the end wall 120 for heat exchange, enabling faster heat removal and ensuring the equipment temperature is maintained within a suitable range.

[0099] Specifically, the second cooling channel 1211 can be arranged in a serpentine (S-shaped) or rotary coiling manner, as long as it can ensure smooth flow of coolant and cover a large area of ​​the end wall 120. No special restrictions are imposed on this.

[0100] In some embodiments, adjacent sidewalls 110 and endwalls 120 can be integrally formed, and one sidewall 110 and endwall 120 of the housing body 100 can be formed by bending the housing plate. The two sets of integrally formed sidewalls 110 and endwalls 120 can be welded to form a square housing. Within the integrally formed sidewalls 110 and endwalls 120, the cooling channels, liquid inlets, and liquid outlets can all be shared to simplify the structure and the manufacturing process.

[0101] The battery cell provided by the present invention will be described below. The battery cell described below can be referred to in correspondence with the battery cell housing described above.

[0102] The battery cell provided in this embodiment of the invention includes: a battery cell housing, a top cover 200, and an electrode group 300 (not shown in the figure). The top cover 200 is disposed in the battery cell housing, and the electrode group 300 is disposed in the receiving space.

[0103] The battery cell provided by this invention, by employing the cell casing as described in any of the preceding embodiments, effectively shortens the heat exchange path and improves the cooling effect of the cell. Furthermore, the cell utilizes the cell casing itself as a cold plate, eliminating the need for additional battery redundancy design, resulting in a simple and compact structure.

[0104] During cell assembly, the first liquid inlet 1112 (second liquid inlet 1212) and the first liquid outlet 1113 (second liquid outlet 1213) are first welded to the port of the corresponding cooling channel of the housing body 100. Then, the two side plates and two end plates are welded into the housing body 100 according to the structure of the square housing. Then, the electrode assembly 300 is pushed into the receiving space of the housing body 100, and one side of the electrode assembly 300 is laser welded to the top cover 200. After the electrode assembly 300 is installed in the housing and the positive and negative electrode tabs are welded to the positive and negative electrode posts respectively, the positive and negative electrode top cover 200 is sealed to the housing body 100. After all welding is completed, electrolyte is injected into the housing body 100 through the liquid injection port and sealed with a sealing element (such as a sealing nail).

[0105] The battery pack provided by the present invention will be described below. The battery pack described below can be referred to in correspondence with the cell housing or cell described above.

[0106] The battery pack provided in this embodiment of the invention includes: at least one battery module, wherein the battery module includes a plurality of adjacently arranged battery cells.

[0107] The battery pack provided by this invention, by employing the battery cells described in any of the preceding claims, effectively shortens the heat exchange path and improves the cooling effect of the battery cells. Furthermore, the battery cell utilizes its casing itself as a cold plate, eliminating the need for redundant battery design, resulting in a simple and compact structure.

[0108] In some embodiments, in addition to providing cooling structures on the sidewalls 110 and endwalls 120 of the battery cell, a localized cold plate at the whole-pack level can be superimposed, which can further improve the cooling effect of the battery pack and avoid the problem of overheating of the battery cell during overcharging or flash charging.

[0109] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A battery cell housing, characterized in that, include: The housing body includes two opposing side walls and end walls respectively connected to the two ends of the two side walls. The two side walls and the two end walls together form a receiving space for accommodating the electrode assembly. At least one of the sidewalls is provided with a first cooling structure, the first cooling structure including a first cooling channel, a first liquid inlet and a first liquid outlet, the first liquid inlet and the first liquid outlet are both connected to the first cooling channel, the first cooling channel is located inside the sidewall, and the first liquid inlet and the first liquid outlet are both located on the outer surface of the sidewall.

2. The cell housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both sidewalls are provided with the first cooling structure.

3. The cell housing according to claim 2, characterized in that, Along the projection direction perpendicular to the sidewall, the first cooling channel, the first liquid inlet, and the first liquid outlet of the two sidewalls all coincide.

4. The cell housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first cooling channel includes a first main channel, a plurality of first branch channels and a second main channel connected in sequence. The inlet end of the first main channel is connected to the first liquid inlet, and the outlet end of the second main channel is connected to the first liquid outlet. The first branch channels extend along the length direction of the sidewall, and the plurality of first branch channels are spaced apart along the width direction of the sidewall. Alternatively, the first cooling channel includes a first branching cavity, a first confluence cavity, and a plurality of first cooling cavities. Along the length of the sidewall, the first branching cavity and the first confluence cavity are disposed opposite each other at both ends of the sidewall. The first cooling cavities extend along the length of the sidewall and are arranged adjacent to each other along the width of the sidewall. The first liquid inlet, the first branching cavity, the first cooling cavity, the first confluence cavity, and the first liquid outlet are sequentially connected. Alternatively, the first cooling channel plate may be disposed within the side wall.

5. The cell housing according to claim 4, characterized in that, Along the width direction of the sidewall, a plurality of first dividing ribs are provided at intervals in the sidewall. The first dividing ribs extend along the length direction of the sidewall, and a first cooling cavity is formed between adjacent first dividing ribs. Along the length of the sidewall, the first partition rib is provided with a plurality of first notches at intervals to connect adjacent first cooling chambers.

6. The cell housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the end walls is provided with a second cooling structure, the second cooling structure including a second cooling channel, a second liquid inlet and a second liquid outlet, the second liquid inlet and the second liquid outlet are both connected to the second cooling channel, the second cooling channel is disposed inside the end wall, and the second liquid inlet and the second liquid outlet are both disposed on the outer surface of the end wall.

7. The cell housing according to claim 6, characterized in that, Both end walls are provided with the second cooling structure.

8. The cell housing according to claim 7, characterized in that, Along the projection direction perpendicular to the end wall, the second cooling channel, the second liquid inlet, and the second liquid outlet of the two end walls all coincide.

9. The cell housing according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second cooling channel includes a third main channel, a plurality of second branch channels and a fourth main channel connected in sequence. The inlet end of the third main channel is connected to the second liquid inlet, and the outlet end of the fourth main channel is connected to the second liquid outlet. The second branch channels extend along the length direction of the end wall, and the plurality of second branch channels are spaced apart along the width direction of the end wall. Alternatively, the second cooling channel includes a second branching cavity, a second confluence cavity, and a plurality of second cooling cavities. Along the length direction of the end wall, the second branching cavity and the second confluence cavity are disposed opposite each other at both ends of the end wall. The second cooling cavities extend along the length direction of the end wall, and along the width direction of the end wall, the plurality of second cooling cavities are arranged adjacent to each other. The second liquid inlet, the second branching cavity, the second cooling cavity, the second confluence cavity, and the second liquid outlet are sequentially connected. Alternatively, the second cooling channel is disposed within the end wall.

10. The cell housing according to claim 9, characterized in that, Along the width direction of the end wall, a plurality of second partition ribs are provided at intervals within the end wall. The second partition ribs extend along the length direction of the end wall, and a second cooling cavity is formed between adjacent second partition ribs. Along the length of the end wall, the second partition rib is provided with a plurality of second notches at intervals to connect adjacent second cooling chambers.

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