Battery cell, battery device, energy storage device, energy storage system, power consumption device, and charging network

Abstract

The application discloses a battery cell, a battery device, an energy storage device, an energy storage system, a power utilization device and a charging network. The battery cell comprises a shell, an electrode assembly, a pressure relief mechanism and a partition. The shell has a first side wall. The electrode assembly is arranged in the shell. The pressure relief mechanism is arranged on the first side wall. The partition is arranged in the shell and located between the electrode assembly and the first side wall. The partition has at least one discharge hole. The discharge hole is communicated with the pressure relief mechanism, so that the discharge produced in the battery cell can flow to the pressure relief mechanism through the discharge hole and be discharged through the pressure relief mechanism.

Description

Battery cells, battery packs, energy storage devices, energy storage systems, electrical devices and charging networks Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of battery technology, and in particular relates to a battery cell, battery device, energy storage device, energy storage system, power consumption device and charging network. Background Technology

[0002] Batteries are widely used in electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric cars, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes, and power tools, etc.

[0003] A battery consists of one or more individual cells to meet different capacity requirements; however, improving the reliability of individual cells is an important research direction in battery cell technology.

[0004] The above statements are for the purpose of providing background information in relation to this application only and do not necessarily constitute prior art.

[0005] Application content

[0006] The purpose of this application is to provide a battery cell, battery device, energy storage device, energy storage system, power consumption device, and charging network that can improve the reliability of battery cell use.

[0007] The technical solution adopted in the embodiments of this application is:

[0008] In a first aspect, a battery cell is provided, the battery cell including a housing, an electrode assembly, a pressure relief mechanism, and a separator, the housing having a first sidewall; the electrode assembly disposed within the housing; the pressure relief mechanism disposed within the first sidewall; the separator disposed within the housing, the separator being located between the electrode assembly and the first sidewall; the separator having at least one discharge hole communicating with the pressure relief mechanism, so that emissions generated inside the battery cell can flow through the discharge hole to the pressure relief mechanism and be discharged through the pressure relief mechanism.

[0009] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, when the battery cell is in an abnormal state, the emissions generated inside the battery cell can flow directionally to the pressure relief mechanism through the discharge hole of the separator, so that the pressure relief mechanism can be actuated and opened in a timely manner, and the emissions can be discharged in a timely and directional manner. The timely pressure relief inside the battery cell can reduce the risk of problems such as tearing and cracking of the battery cell casing, improve the situation of thermal runaway of the battery cell spreading outward, and improve the reliability of the device including the battery cell. In addition, the separator is located between the first side wall and the electrode assembly, and the pressure relief mechanism is located on the first side wall, so that the separator can separate the electrode assembly and the pressure relief mechanism, reducing the risk of the pressure relief mechanism being blocked, and also facilitating the timely and directional discharge of emissions, further improving the reliability of the battery cell.

[0010] In some embodiments, a discharge space is formed between the partition and the first sidewall, the discharge space being used to connect the pressure relief mechanism and the discharge port.

[0011] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, a discharge space is formed between the separator and the first sidewall, which facilitates the flow of discharge into the discharge space and its convergence. The pressure in the discharge space increases, which enables the pressure relief mechanism to be activated in a timely manner, and the discharge can be released in a timely and directional manner, reducing problems such as tearing and cracking of the battery cell casing, and helping to improve the thermal runaway propagation of the battery cell.

[0012] In some embodiments, the discharge space includes a first discharge subspace for communicating the pressure relief mechanism and the discharge port; the separator includes a plate and a protrusion connected together, the plate being located between a first sidewall and an electrode assembly, the plate having a discharge port formed thereon; the protrusion is located on the side of the plate facing the first sidewall, the protrusion abutting against the first sidewall to space the plate from the first sidewall and form the first discharge subspace.

[0013] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the emissions can flow into the first emission subspace through the emission hole and collect, and then be discharged through the pressure relief mechanism; the first emission subspace can provide a collection space for the emissions, thereby guiding the emissions to be directionally depressurized through the pressure relief mechanism, reducing problems such as tearing and cracking of the battery cell casing, and helping to improve the thermal runaway propagation of the battery cell.

[0014] In some embodiments, the protrusion is arranged around the outer periphery of the pressure relief mechanism, and the plate and the protrusion together enclose a first discharge subspace.

[0015] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the protrusion is arranged around the outer periphery of the pressure relief mechanism, reducing the risk of the protrusion obstructing the pressure relief mechanism and reducing the impact of the protrusion on the actuation and opening of the pressure relief mechanism, which is conducive to the timely actuation and pressure relief of the pressure relief mechanism. The protrusion and the plate form a first discharge subspace. The first discharge subspace is formed by utilizing the space of the separator itself, which can make full use of the internal space of the battery cell and is conducive to improving the energy density of the battery cell. In addition, the protrusion is arranged around the outer periphery of the pressure relief mechanism, which increases the volume of the first discharge subspace. On the one hand, it is conducive to the rapid entry of the discharge into the first discharge subspace for collection. On the other hand, when a large amount of discharge is generated inside the battery cell, the first discharge subspace can collect a large amount of discharge and enable the pressure relief mechanism to be actuated and opened in a timely manner to achieve directional discharge of discharge. This reduces the problems of tearing and cracking of the battery cell shell and is conducive to improving the thermal runaway propagation of the battery cell.

[0016] In some embodiments, the protrusions are distributed along the periphery of the first sidewall.

[0017] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the protrusion is located at the periphery of the first sidewall, which can effectively increase the volume of the first discharge subspace. On the one hand, it is beneficial for the discharge to flow into the first discharge subspace quickly; on the other hand, when the discharge in the battery cell increases sharply, the large volume of the first discharge subspace allows a large amount of discharge to quickly accumulate in the first discharge subspace, causing the pressure in the first discharge subspace to rise rapidly. The pressure relief mechanism can be activated in time to release the pressure, reducing the risk of tearing or cracking of the battery cell casing and improving the reliability of the battery cell.

[0018] In some embodiments, the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly is spaced apart from the inner peripheral surface of the housing to form a discharge gap; the protrusion is provided with a communication channel for connecting the first discharge subspace and the discharge gap.

[0019] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the emissions in the emission gap can flow into the first emission subspace through the connecting channel and finally be discharged in a directional manner through the pressure relief mechanism. This realizes the directional release of emissions in the emission gap, reduces the risk of problems such as tearing and cracking of the battery cell casing, and improves the reliability of the battery cell. In addition, the setting of the emission gap facilitates the installation of electrode components into the casing.

[0020] In some embodiments, the protrusion includes a plurality of protruding sub-parts disposed on the plate, the plurality of protruding sub-parts being arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the pressure relief mechanism, and a communication channel being formed between two adjacent protruding sub-parts.

[0021] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the protrusion adopts a structure of multiple protruding sub-parts, and a connecting channel is formed between two adjacent protruding sub-parts, which increases the flow area of ​​the connecting channel, reduces the resistance of the emission material entering the first emission sub-space from the emission gap, improves the smoothness of the emission material through the pressure relief mechanism, reduces the risk of the battery cell casing tearing or cracking, and improves the reliability of the battery cell; in addition, the separator has a simple structure and is convenient to process and manufacture.

[0022] In some embodiments, the ratio of the radial dimension of the electrode assembly to the inner radial dimension of the housing ranges from 0.9 to 0.99; optionally, the ratio of the radial dimension of the electrode assembly to the inner radial dimension of the housing ranges from 0.95 to 0.98.

[0023] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the radial dimension of the electrode assembly is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the housing. The larger radial dimension of the electrode assembly is beneficial for increasing the capacity of the battery cell. In addition, a discharge gap can be formed between the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly and the inner peripheral surface of the housing, which facilitates the installation of the electrode assembly into the housing. Furthermore, the discharge material in the discharge gap can flow into the discharge space through the connecting channel and be directionally discharged through the pressure relief mechanism. This design can better balance the capacity, pressure relief, and installation of the battery cell.

[0024] In some embodiments, the ratio of the radial dimension of the separator to the radial dimension of the electrode assembly ranges from 0.8 to 1, and optionally, the ratio of the radial dimension of the separator to the radial dimension of the electrode assembly ranges from 0.9 to 0.98.

[0025] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the radial dimension of the separator is slightly smaller than that of the electrode assembly. The larger radial dimension of the separator allows it to support the outer periphery of the electrode assembly, reducing the risk of collapse and improving the reliability of the battery cell. Furthermore, the radial dimension of the separator is smaller than the inner diameter of the outer casing. This facilitates the insertion of the separator into the casing and allows a gap to be formed between the outer periphery of the separator and the inner periphery of the casing. This allows effluent located in the discharge gap to flow into the discharge space through this gap and the connecting channel, and then be directionally discharged via the pressure relief mechanism. This design effectively balances the reliability of the battery cell, pressure relief, and installation.

[0026] In some embodiments, the distance between the outer peripheral surface of the separator and the inner peripheral surface of the housing ranges from 0.05 mm to 2 mm. Optionally, the distance between the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly and the inner peripheral surface of the housing ranges from 0.3 mm to 1 mm.

[0027] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, a gap can be formed between the outer peripheral surface of the separator and the inner peripheral surface of the shell. The discharge material in the discharge gap can flow into the discharge space through the gap and the connecting channel, and be discharged in a directional manner through the pressure relief mechanism. In addition, the radial dimension of the separator is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the shell. The large radial dimension of the separator can support the outer peripheral side of the electrode assembly, reduce the risk of collapse of the electrode assembly, and improve the reliability of the battery cell. This design can better balance the reliability of the battery cell, pressure relief, and installation.

[0028] In some embodiments, the thickness of the plate is h1, wherein 0.1 mm ≤ h1 ≤ 0.5 mm; and / or, the protrusion height of the protrusion is h2, wherein 0 mm < h2 ≤ 3 mm.

[0029] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the design with h1 ≥ 0.1 mm allows the plate to support the electrode assembly, reducing the risk of electrode assembly collapse and maintaining the shape of the first row subspace, facilitating directional pressure relief by the pressure relief mechanism and improving the reliability of the battery cell. The design with h1 ≤ 0.5 mm reduces the space occupied by the plate and increases the energy density of the battery cell. This design effectively balances the reliability and energy density of the battery cell. The design with h2 > 0 mm allows the protrusion to extend beyond the surface of the plate, forming the first row subspace to facilitate directional pressure relief by the pressure relief mechanism. The design with h2 ≤ 3 mm reduces the space occupied by the separator and increases the energy density of the battery cell. This design effectively balances the reliability and energy density of the battery cell.

[0030] In some embodiments, the discharge space further includes a second discharge subspace for connecting the pressure relief mechanism and the first discharge subspace; the first sidewall includes a recess and a peripheral portion connected to each other, the peripheral portion being disposed around the recess; the recess is recessed relative to the peripheral portion away from the separator to form the second discharge subspace.

[0031] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the setting of the second emission subspace can increase the size of the emission space. When the battery cell generates a large amount of emissions, the emission space can accommodate more emissions, thereby guiding a large amount of emissions to be released in a directional manner through the pressure relief mechanism, reducing the risk of the casing being torn, and improving the reliability of the battery cell.

[0032] In some embodiments, the pressure relief mechanism is located in the recess, and the protrusion is used to abut against the peripheral portion.

[0033] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism is located in the recessed part, which allows the pressure relief mechanism to communicate with the second discharge subspace. In this way, the discharged material can be collected in the second discharge subspace and then directionally released from the pressure relief mechanism. The protrusion abuts against the peripheral part, so that the protrusion abuts against the periphery of the first sidewall, which is conducive to expanding the space of the discharge space and facilitating the directional pressure relief of the pressure relief mechanism.

[0034] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly has a central hole, and at least one discharge hole includes a first discharge hole, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole.

[0035] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the first discharge hole and the center hole are connected to each other, so that the discharged material can flow into the discharge space through the center hole and the first discharge hole, and then be directionally discharged through the pressure relief mechanism. This improves the smoothness of the discharge and helps to improve the reliability of the battery cell.

[0036] In some embodiments, the diameter of the first discharge orifice is greater than or equal to the diameter of the central orifice.

[0037] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the diameter of the first discharge hole is greater than or equal to the diameter of the central hole. The larger diameter of the first discharge hole reduces the resistance of the discharged material in the central hole to passing through the first discharge hole, thereby improving the smoothness of the discharged material entering the discharge space. This facilitates the directional release of the discharged material through the pressure relief mechanism and improves the reliability of the battery cell.

[0038] In some embodiments, the ratio of the diameter of the central hole to the diameter of the first discharge hole ranges from 0.2 to 1. Optionally, the ratio of the diameter of the central hole to the diameter of the first discharge hole ranges from 0.5 to 0.95.

[0039] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the plate can support the electrode assembly, reducing the risk of battery cell collapse and improving the reliability of the battery cells. Furthermore, the first discharge port offers low resistance to the discharged material and has good discharge efficiency, facilitating the directional discharge of the material through the pressure relief mechanism, which further enhances the reliability of the battery cells. This design effectively improves the reliability of the battery cells.

[0040] In some embodiments, the number of discharge holes is multiple, and the multiple discharge holes include at least one second discharge hole located around the periphery of the first discharge hole.

[0041] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the second discharge hole can be arranged opposite to the electrode plate of the electrode assembly, so that the discharge material located between the electrode plates can be directly discharged through the second discharge hole, reducing the risk of problems such as tearing and cracking of the casing and improving the reliability of the battery cell.

[0042] In some embodiments, there are multiple second discharge holes, which are arranged at circumferential intervals along the first discharge hole.

[0043] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the arrangement of multiple second discharge holes can increase the discharge area of ​​the effluent between the electrodes of the electrode assembly, improve the discharge flow of the effluent between the electrodes of the electrode assembly, and facilitate the directional discharge of the effluent. In addition, the multiple second discharge holes are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first discharge hole. In this way, the electrodes of the electrode assembly can be divided into multiple regions along the circumference of the first discharge hole according to the multiple second discharge holes. Each region is provided with a corresponding second discharge hole. The effluent in each region is discharged from the corresponding second discharge hole, which shortens the discharge distance of the effluent, improves the discharge flow of the effluent, and facilitates the directional discharge of the effluent.

[0044] In some embodiments, the battery cell further includes a central member passing through a central hole.

[0045] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the inner wall of the central hole can be reduced, thereby reducing the risk of collapse of the inner wall of the central hole and improving the reliability of the battery cell.

[0046] In some embodiments, the number of discharge holes is multiple, and the multiple discharge holes are arranged around the center of the plate.

[0047] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the arrangement of multiple discharge holes can increase the discharge area of ​​the discharge material between the electrodes of the electrode assembly, improve the discharge flow of the discharge material between the electrodes of the electrode assembly, and facilitate the directional discharge of the discharge material. In addition, the multiple discharge holes are arranged around the center of the plate, so that the electrode assembly can be divided into multiple regions according to the multiple discharge holes, and each region is provided with a corresponding discharge hole. The discharge material in each region is discharged from the corresponding discharge hole, which shortens the discharge distance of the discharge material, improves the discharge flow of the discharge material, and facilitates the directional discharge of the discharge material.

[0048] In some embodiments, the separator includes a reinforcing rib that is connected to the plate.

[0049] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the reinforcing ribs can increase the structural strength of the plate, enabling the separator to stably support the electrode assembly, reducing the risk of collapse of the electrode assembly, and improving the reliability of the battery cell.

[0050] In some embodiments, the reinforcing rib is connected to the surface of the plate facing the first sidewall.

[0051] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the reinforcing rib is located on the side of the plate away from the electrode assembly. The reinforcing rib does not contact the electrode assembly, reducing the risk of damage to the electrode assembly caused by the protruding reinforcing rib squeezing the electrode assembly, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the battery cell.

[0052] In some embodiments, along the thickness direction of the plate, at least some of the projections of the discharge holes and the projections of the reinforcing ribs do not coincide.

[0053] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, at least some of the discharge holes will not be blocked by the reinforcing ribs, which is conducive to improving the smoothness of discharge and improving the reliability of battery cells.

[0054] In some embodiments, the reinforcing rib portion includes at least one first reinforcing rib, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the opposite sides of the protrusion portion.

[0055] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the relative connection between the two ends of the first reinforcing rib and the protrusion can increase the structural strength of the separator, improve the supporting effect of the separator on the electrode assembly, and improve the reliability of the battery cell.

[0056] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly has a central hole, and at least one discharge hole includes a first discharge hole, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole; the reinforcing rib includes at least one first reinforcing rib, which is connected to the surface of the plate body facing the first sidewall, and the projection of the first reinforcing rib intersects with the projection of the first discharge hole along the thickness direction of the plate body.

[0057] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the first reinforcing rib spans the first discharge hole, and the first reinforcing rib can also improve the structural strength at the first discharge hole, which is beneficial to improve the structural strength of the separator, improve the supporting effect of the separator on the electrode assembly, and improve the reliability of the battery cell. In addition, the first reinforcing rib can also support the electrode assembly at the first discharge hole, reduce the risk of the electrode assembly falling out of the first discharge hole and collapsing, and improve the reliability of the battery cell.

[0058] In some embodiments, there are multiple first reinforcing ribs, and along the thickness direction of the plate, the projection of the intersecting portion of at least two first reinforcing ribs is located within the projection of the first discharge hole.

[0059] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the intersection of at least two first reinforcing ribs is located at the first discharge hole, which can increase the structural strength at the discharge hole, improve the structural strength of the separator, enhance the support effect on the electrode assembly, reduce the risk of collapse of the electrode assembly, and improve the reliability of the battery cell.

[0060] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly has a central hole, and at least one discharge hole includes a first discharge hole, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole; the reinforcing rib includes a second reinforcing rib, which is connected to the plate body and is circumferentially disposed on the outer periphery of the first discharge hole.

[0061] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the second reinforcing rib can increase the structural strength of the outer periphery of the first discharge hole, improve the structural strength of the separator, improve the supporting effect of the separator on the electrode assembly, and improve the reliability of the battery cell.

[0062] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly has a central hole, and at least one discharge hole includes a first discharge hole, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole; the reinforcing rib includes a third reinforcing rib, which is located inside the first discharge hole, and both ends of the third reinforcing rib are respectively connected to the hole wall of the first discharge hole.

[0063] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the third reinforcing rib can increase the structural strength at the first discharge hole and improve the structural strength of the separator; the third reinforcing rib is provided in the first discharge hole, which can improve the structural compactness of the battery cell and increase the energy density of the battery cell. In addition, the third reinforcing rib can support the electrode assembly, reduce the risk of the electrode assembly collapsing and falling into the first discharge hole, reduce the risk of the first discharge hole being blocked, improve the discharge smoothness of the effluent, and help improve the reliability of the battery cell.

[0064] In some embodiments, the battery cell includes an insulating member that covers the electrode assembly. The insulating member has a first insulating portion located between the separator and the electrode assembly. The first insulating portion has a first communication hole for communicating with a discharge port.

[0065] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the setting of the insulating component can insulate and separate the electrode assembly from the outer casing, reducing the short circuit risk of the battery cell; in addition, the setting of the first connecting hole can facilitate the discharge of the effluent and improve the reliability of the battery cell.

[0066] In some embodiments, the insulating member includes a second insulating portion connected to the first insulating portion. The second insulating portion is located between the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly and the inner peripheral surface of the housing. The second insulating portion is circumferentially disposed outside the electrode assembly. The second insulating portion has a second connecting hole. The second insulating portion and the inner peripheral surface of the housing are spaced apart to form a connecting gap. The connecting gap is used to connect the second connecting hole and the discharge hole.

[0067] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the emissions located on the electrode assembly side can flow to the emission port through the second connecting hole and the connecting gap, which increases the emission path of the emissions, which is conducive to improving the emission smoothness and improving the reliability of the battery cell.

[0068] In some embodiments, the housing further includes a second sidewall, the first sidewall and the second sidewall are disposed opposite to each other, the electrode assembly has tabs extending from the end face facing the second sidewall, the second sidewall is provided with electrode terminals, and the electrode terminals are electrically connected to the tabs.

[0069] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism and the electrode terminals are located on opposite sides of the battery cell, which can reduce the impact of the emissions discharged by the pressure relief mechanism on the electrode terminals and help improve the reliability of the battery cell.

[0070] In some embodiments, the material of the separator includes at least one of aluminum, copper, steel, polypropylene, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polyethylene, silicon carbide, and ceramic.

[0071] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the material of the separator is the aforementioned material, which gives the separator good structural strength, provides good support for the electrode assembly, and improves the reliability of the battery cell.

[0072] In some embodiments, the battery cell is a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, or a square battery cell.

[0073] The technical solutions of this application can be applied to cylindrical battery cells, prismatic battery cells, and square battery cells, and have a wide range of applications.

[0074] Secondly, a battery device is provided, comprising a plurality of the aforementioned battery cells.

[0075] The battery device in this application uses the aforementioned battery cell, which has good reliability and can also help improve the spread of thermal runaway in the battery cell, thereby improving the reliability of the battery device.

[0076] Thirdly, an energy storage device is provided, comprising a plurality of the aforementioned battery cells or a plurality of the aforementioned battery devices, wherein the battery cells or battery devices are used to store or provide electrical energy.

[0077] The energy storage device in this application uses the aforementioned battery cells or battery devices, which have good reliability, thus improving the reliability of the energy storage device.

[0078] Fourthly, an energy storage system is provided, including a power conversion device and the aforementioned energy storage device, wherein the power conversion device is used to electrically connect the power generation device and the energy storage device.

[0079] The energy storage system of this application embodiment adopts the above-mentioned energy storage device, which has good reliability and improves the reliability of the energy storage system.

[0080] Fifthly, an electrical device is provided, comprising the aforementioned battery cell, battery device, energy storage device, or energy storage system, wherein the battery cell or battery device is used to store or provide electrical energy.

[0081] The electrical device in this application embodiment uses the above-mentioned battery cell, battery device, energy storage device or energy storage system. The battery cell, battery device, energy storage device and energy storage system have good reliability, which improves the reliability of the electrical device.

[0082] In a sixth aspect, a charging network is provided, including a charging pile and the aforementioned energy storage device or energy storage system, wherein the energy storage device is used to provide electrical energy to the charging pile.

[0083] The charging network of this application embodiment adopts the above-mentioned energy storage device or energy storage system. The energy storage device and energy storage system have good reliability, which improves the reliability of the charging network.

[0084] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0085] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0086] Figure 1 is an exploded view of a battery cell provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0087] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the battery cell shown in Figure 1.

[0088] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 2.

[0089] Figure 4 is a magnified view of part B in Figure 3.

[0090] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the separator shown in Figure 1.

[0091] Figure 6 is an exploded view of a battery cell provided in some other embodiments of this application.

[0092] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the battery cell shown in Figure 6.

[0093] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view along line CC in Figure 7.

[0094] Figure 9 is a magnified view of part D in Figure 8.

[0095] Figure 10 is a magnified view of a portion of point E in Figure 9.

[0096] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the separator shown in Figure 7.

[0097] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the separator provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0098] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the separator provided in some other embodiments of this application.

[0099] Figure 14 is a structural schematic diagram of the separator provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0100] Figure 15 is a structural schematic diagram of the separator provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0101] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the separator provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0102] Figure 17 is a second structural schematic diagram of the separator shown in Figure 1.

[0103] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view along line FF in Figure 17.

[0104] Figure 19 is an exploded view of a battery device provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0105] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an energy storage device provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0106] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an energy storage system provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0107] Figure 22 is a schematic diagram of the vehicle structure provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0108] Figure 23 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a charging network provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0109] The following are the labeling elements in the figure:

[0110] 100. Battery cell; 100a. Discharge space; 100a1. First discharge sub-space; 100a2. Second discharge sub-space; 100b. Discharge gap; 100c. Connecting gap; 110. Housing; 110a. First sidewall; 110a1. Recess; 110a2. Peripheral side; 110b. Second sidewall; 110c. Peripheral wall; 111. Housing; 112. End cap; 120. Electrode assembly; 120a. Center hole; 121. Tab; 130. Pressure relief mechanism; 140. Separator; 140a. Discharge hole; 140a1. First discharge hole; 140a2. Second discharge hole; 140b. Connecting channel; 141. Plate; 142. Protrusion; 1421. Protrusion sub-part; 143. Addition Reinforcing ribs; 1431, First reinforcing rib; 1432, Second reinforcing rib; 1433, Third reinforcing rib; 150, Center component; 160, Electrode terminal; 170, Insulating component; 170a, First connecting hole; 170b, Second connecting hole; 171, First insulating part; 172, Second insulating part; 200, Housing; 210, First housing; 220, Second housing; 1000, Vehicle; 1100, Battery device; 1200, Controller; 1300, Motor; 2000, Energy storage device; 2100, Cabinet; 2200, Battery cluster; 3000, Energy storage system; 3100, Power conversion device; 3200, Power generation equipment; 4000, Charging network; 4100, Charging pile; 4200, Connector. Detailed Implementation

[0111] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0112] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0113] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0114] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces). "Several" means one or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0115] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", 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 this application 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 this application.

[0116] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0117] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, when an element is referred to as "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it may be directly on or indirectly on the other element. When an element is referred to as "connected to" another element, it may be directly connected to or indirectly connected to the other element.

[0118] Unless otherwise specified, all embodiments and optional embodiments of this application can be combined to form new technical solutions.

[0119] Unless otherwise specified, all technical features and optional technical features of this application may be combined to form new technical solutions.

[0120] As the smallest unit that makes up a battery, it typically includes a casing and an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly is housed within the casing, which is equipped with a pressure relief mechanism. When a battery cell is in an abnormal state (e.g., a short circuit occurs inside the battery cell, the battery cell is overcharged, or the environment is too high), a large amount of waste will be generated inside the battery cell. This waste can be discharged to the outside of the casing through the pressure relief mechanism to improve the situation of excessive internal pressure in the battery cell.

[0121] However, in some battery cells, the distance between the pressure relief mechanism and the electrode assembly is too short, or even the electrode assembly directly abuts against the pressure relief mechanism, blocking it. This makes it difficult for emissions to flow to the pressure relief mechanism or to be discharged from it in a directed manner. As emissions continue to be generated, they accumulate inside the battery cell, causing the internal pressure to rise continuously. When the internal pressure of the battery cell reaches a critical value, the outer casing may tear at weak points such as welds, leading to thermal runaway in adjacent battery cells. This makes it difficult to control the spread of thermal runaway and also hinders the improvement of the battery cell's reliability.

[0122] Based on this, the battery cell of this application embodiment proposes a battery cell in which a separator is located between the first sidewall and the electrode assembly. The separator has at least one discharge hole. When the battery cell is in an abnormal state, the discharge generated inside the battery cell can flow directionally to the pressure relief mechanism through the discharge hole. This facilitates the timely activation of the pressure relief mechanism to directionally discharge the discharge, thereby reducing the internal pressure of the battery cell, reducing the risk of tearing at the weak points on the battery cell's outer shell, improving the reliability of the battery cell, and also helping to improve the spread of thermal runaway in the battery cell.

[0123] The battery cells in this application embodiment can be rechargeable batteries, which are battery cells that can be recharged after discharge to activate the active materials and continue to be used. Battery cells can be lithium-ion battery cells, sodium-ion battery cells, sodium-lithium-ion battery cells, lithium metal battery cells, sodium metal battery cells, lithium-sulfur battery cells, magnesium-ion battery cells, nickel-metal hydride battery cells, nickel-cadmium battery cells, lead-acid battery cells, etc. Battery cells can be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes. Battery cells are generally classified into three types according to their packaging method: cylindrical battery cells, square battery cells, and pouch battery cells.

[0124] For ease of explanation, the embodiments of this application are illustrated using cylindrical or square battery cells as examples.

[0125] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 to 4, the battery cell 100 is a cylindrical battery cell. The battery cell 100 has a height direction (refer to the Z direction in the figure). The outer shell 110 of the battery cell 100 has two sidewalls that are distributed opposite to each other along the height direction, which are divided into a first sidewall 110a and a second sidewall 110b. The portion of the outer shell 110 connected between the first sidewall 110a and the second sidewall 110b is the peripheral wall 110b of the outer shell 110.

[0126] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 6-10, the battery cell 100 is a square battery cell. The battery cell 100 has a height direction, a length direction, and a width direction. The height of the battery cell 100 can be referred to as the Z direction in the figures, the length direction of the battery cell 100 can be referred to as the X direction in the figures, and the width direction of the battery cell 100 can be referred to as the Y direction in the figures. The outer casing 110 of the battery cell 100 has two sidewalls that are distributed opposite to each other along the height direction, which are divided into a first sidewall 110a and a second sidewall 110b. The portion of the outer casing 110 connecting the first sidewall 110a and the second sidewall 110b is the peripheral wall 110b of the outer casing 110.

[0127] In some embodiments, the shape of the peripheral wall 110b of the outer shell 110 may be cylindrical, prismatic, cuboid, etc.

[0128] In some embodiments, referring to FIG111, a battery cell 100 is provided. The battery cell 100 includes a housing 110, an electrode assembly 120, a pressure relief mechanism 130, and a separator 140. The housing 110 has a first sidewall 110a, and the electrode assembly 120 is disposed within the housing 110. The pressure relief mechanism 130 is disposed within the first sidewall 110a. The separator 140 is disposed within the housing 110 and is located between the electrode assembly 120 and the first sidewall 110a. The separator 140 has at least one discharge hole 140a, which communicates with the pressure relief mechanism 130 so that the emissions generated by the electrode assembly 120 can flow through the discharge hole 140a to the pressure relief mechanism 130 and be discharged through the pressure relief mechanism 130.

[0129] The outer casing 110 can refer to a hollow shell structure. The space formed inside the outer casing 110 is used to accommodate the electrode assembly 120 and the separator 140. The outer casing 110 can protect the electrode assembly 120 and the separator 140 and improve the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0130] In some examples, the housing 111 includes an end cap 112 and the housing 111. The end cap 112 is a component that closes onto the opening of the housing 111 to isolate the internal environment of the battery cell 100 from the external environment. The shape of the end cap 112 can be adapted to the shape of the housing 111 to fit the housing 111. The end cap 112 can be made of a material with a certain degree of hardness and strength (such as aluminum alloy), so that the end cap 112 is not easily deformed under compression and impact, enabling the battery cell 100 to have higher structural strength and improve reliability.

[0131] The housing 111 is a component used to cooperate with the end cap 112 to form the internal environment of the battery cell 100, wherein the formed internal environment can accommodate the electrode assembly 120, electrolyte, and separator 140. The housing 111 and the end cap 112 can be independent components. An opening can be provided on the housing 111, and the end cap 112 can be used to close the opening to form the internal environment of the battery cell 100. Alternatively, the end cap 112 and the housing 111 can be an integrated structure. For example, the end cap 112 and the housing 111 can form a common connecting surface before other components are inserted into the housing, and the end cap 112 closes the housing 111 when it is necessary to encapsulate its interior. The housing 111 can be of various shapes and sizes, such as cuboid, cylindrical, hexagonal prism, etc. The shape of the housing 111 can be determined according to the specific shape and size of the electrode assembly 120. The material of the housing 111 can be various, such as copper, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, plastic, etc.

[0132] In the battery cell 100, there can be one or two end caps 112. If the housing 111 is a hollow structure with one end open, one end cap 112 is provided accordingly; if the housing 111 is a hollow structure with both ends open, two end caps 112 are provided accordingly, and the two end caps 112 respectively cover the two openings of the housing 111.

[0133] The first sidewall 110a can refer to the sidewall of the outer shell 110 where the pressure relief mechanism 130 is provided; the end cap 112 can form the first sidewall 110a of the outer shell 110, and the sidewalls of the shell 111 and the end cap 112 that are opposite to each other can also form the first sidewall 110a.

[0134] In some examples, the housing 111 has openings at both ends, and there are two end caps 112, which respectively form a first sidewall 110a and a second sidewall 110b.

[0135] In some examples, one end of the housing 111 is provided with an opening, and there is one end cap 112. The sidewalls of the housing 111 and the end cap 112 opposite to each other form a first sidewall 110a, and the end cap 112 forms a second sidewall 110b; or, the sidewalls of the housing 111 and the end cap 112 opposite to each other form a second sidewall 110b, and the end cap 112 forms a first sidewall 110a.

[0136] Electrode assembly 120 is the component in the battery cell 100 where the electrochemical reaction occurs. There can be one or more electrode assemblies 120, with one or more electrode assemblies 120 housed within the casing 110. Electrode assembly 120 includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. The battery cell 100 primarily operates by the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrode plates. The positive electrode includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer. The positive active material layer is coated on the surface of the positive current collector, and the uncoated positive current collector protrudes beyond the coated positive current collector, serving as a positive electrode tab. The negative electrode includes a negative current collector and a negative active material layer. The negative active material layer is coated on the surface of the negative current collector, and the uncoated negative current collector protrudes beyond the coated negative current collector, serving as a negative electrode tab.

[0137] Taking a lithium-ion battery cell as an example, the positive electrode current collector can be made of aluminum, and the positive electrode active material can be lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, or lithium manganese oxide, etc. The negative electrode current collector can be made of copper, and the negative electrode active material can be carbon, silicon, lithium metal, or lithium alloy, etc. To ensure that a large current can be passed without melting, there are multiple positive electrode tabs stacked together, and there are multiple negative electrode tabs stacked together.

[0138] In some examples, the separator is disposed between the positive and negative electrode plates, and the separator can be a separator membrane. This application does not impose any particular restriction on the type of separator membrane; any known porous separator membrane with good chemical and mechanical stability can be selected.

[0139] In some examples, electrode assembly 120 is a wound structure. The positive electrode, negative electrode, and separator are wound into a wound structure.

[0140] In some examples, the electrode assembly 120 is a laminated structure, in which positive electrode plates, negative electrode plates, and separators are stacked to form a laminated structure.

[0141] The pressure relief mechanism 130 is an element or component used to actuate when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell 100 reaches a predetermined threshold, thereby releasing the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell 100. This predetermined threshold can be adjusted according to different design requirements. For example, the predetermined threshold may depend on one or more materials of the positive electrode, negative electrode, electrolyte, and separator in the battery cell 100. "Actuation" means that the pressure relief mechanism 130 is activated or moved to a certain state, thereby releasing the internal pressure and temperature of the battery cell 100. The actions of the pressure relief mechanism 130 may include, but are not limited to, at least a portion of the pressure relief mechanism 130 rupturing, breaking, tearing, or opening. When the pressure relief mechanism 130 is actuated, the high-temperature, high-pressure substances inside the battery cell 100 are discharged outwards from the actuated portion as waste. In this way, the battery cell 100 can be depressurized and de-temperatured under controllable pressure or temperature, thereby reducing the risk of potentially more serious accidents.

[0142] Emissions include, but are not limited to: electrolyte, dissolved or broken positive and negative electrode plates, fragments of separators, high-temperature and high-pressure gases generated by the reaction, flames, etc.

[0143] In some examples, the pressure relief mechanism 130 can be a separate structure from the first sidewall 110a, with the pressure relief mechanism 130 being an independent component mounted on the first sidewall 110a. For example, the pressure relief mechanism 130 can be a component such as an explosion-proof valve, gas valve, pressure relief valve, or safety valve mounted on the first sidewall 110a, and can specifically employ pressure-sensitive or temperature-sensitive elements or structures. Alternatively, the pressure relief mechanism 130 can be an integral structure with the first sidewall 110a. In another example, the pressure relief mechanism 130 can be formed by creating a groove on the first sidewall 110a, where the thickness at the groove is significantly less than the thickness of other areas of the first sidewall 110a. The groove is the weakest point of the pressure relief mechanism 130. When the battery cell 100 produces too much gas, causing the internal pressure to rise and reach a threshold, or when the internal reaction of the battery cell 100 generates heat, causing the internal temperature of the battery cell 100 to rise and reach a threshold, the pressure relief mechanism 130 can rupture at the groove, causing communication between the inside and outside of the battery cell 100. The gas pressure and temperature are released outward through the rupture of the pressure relief mechanism 130, thereby preventing the battery cell 100 from exploding. For example, a groove is provided on the first sidewall 110a, and the area defined by the groove forms the pressure relief mechanism 130. The groove can be a ring with a notch; or, there can be two grooves, which are arranged in parallel and relatively close to each other in the middle.

[0144] The separator 140 may refer to a partition between the first sidewall 110a and the electrode assembly 120. In some examples, the separator 140 may support the electrode assembly 120 and separate the electrode assembly 120 from the first sidewall 110a, reducing the risk of blockage of the pressure relief mechanism 130 and facilitating the discharge of waste. The shape of the separator 140 is adapted to the shape of the first sidewall 110a to better separate the electrode assembly 120 from the first sidewall 110a.

[0145] For example, the first sidewall 110a is circular in shape, and the partition 140 is circular in shape.

[0146] For example, the first sidewall 110a is rectangular in shape, and the partition 140 is rectangular in shape.

[0147] The discharge hole 140a can refer to the through hole provided in the separator 140. The discharge hole 140a penetrates the separator 140, so that the discharge material located on the electrode assembly 120 side in the battery cell 100 can pass through the separator 140 through the discharge hole 140a and flow to the pressure relief mechanism 130 on the first side wall 110a, so that the pressure relief mechanism 130 can be actuated in time and the discharge material can be discharged in a timely and directional manner.

[0148] In some examples, the separator 140 has two opposing surfaces, one facing the first sidewall 110a and the other facing the electrode assembly 120. A discharge hole 140a penetrates both surfaces, connecting the opposing sides of the separator 140. This allows effluent from the electrode assembly 120 side to flow directionally through the discharge hole 140a to the pressure relief mechanism 130 on the first sidewall 110a, enabling the pressure relief mechanism 130 to be actuated promptly for timely and directional discharge of the effluent. The discharge hole 140a can penetrate the separator 140 directly along its thickness direction, or it can penetrate the separator 140 in a direction inclined relative to its thickness direction, or it can be in other directions.

[0149] The number of discharge holes 140a can be one or more, and the shape of discharge holes 140a can be various, such as: circle, triangle, quadrilateral, ellipse, etc.

[0150] The separator 140 can be made of a material with a certain hardness and strength, so that the separator 140 is not easily deformed when subjected to compression and collision, thereby stably guiding the discharge of waste; the material of the separator 140 is various, such as metal, plastic, etc.

[0151] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, when the battery cell 100 is in an abnormal state, the emissions generated inside the battery cell 100 can flow directionally to the pressure relief mechanism 130 through the discharge hole 140a of the separator 140, so that the pressure relief mechanism 130 can be actuated and opened in time, and the emissions can be discharged in a timely and directional manner. The timely pressure relief inside the battery cell 100 can reduce the risk of tearing or cracking of the outer shell 110 of the battery cell 100, improve the situation of thermal runaway of the battery cell 100 spreading outward, and improve the reliability of the device including the battery cell 100. In addition, the separator 140 is located between the first side wall 110a and the electrode assembly 120, and the pressure relief mechanism 130 is located on the first side wall 110a, so that the separator 140 can separate the electrode assembly 120 and the pressure relief mechanism 130, reducing the risk of the pressure relief mechanism 130 being blocked, and also facilitating the timely and directional discharge of emissions, further improving the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0152] In some embodiments, a discharge space 100a is formed between the partition 140 and the first sidewall 110a, the discharge space 100a being used to connect the pressure relief mechanism 130 and the discharge port 140a.

[0153] The discharge space 100a may refer to the cavity space formed by the partition 140 and the first side wall 110a, wherein at least part of the first side wall 110a and the partition 140 do not contact each other, thereby allowing the first side wall 110a and the partition 140 to form a discharge space 100a.

[0154] In some examples, the partition 140 is recessed away from the first sidewall 110a, and the space formed by the recess can be the discharge space 100a; or, the first sidewall 110a is recessed away from the partition 140, and the space formed by the recess can be the discharge space 100a; or, the partition 140 and the first sidewall 110a are recessed away from each other, and the space formed by the recess is the discharge space 100a.

[0155] In some examples, the partition 140 is spaced apart from the first sidewall 110a, and the space between the partition 140 and the first sidewall 110a forms an exhaust space 100a.

[0156] The discharge space 100a is used to connect the pressure relief mechanism 130 and the discharge port 140a. It can be understood that the discharge material from the electrode assembly 120 side can enter the discharge space 100a through the discharge port 140a and then flow to the pressure relief mechanism 130, increasing the pressure or temperature in the discharge space 100a. When the pressure relief mechanism 130 reaches a predetermined threshold, the pressure relief mechanism 130 is actuated to discharge the discharge material, thereby realizing the directional pressure relief of the battery cell 100.

[0157] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, a discharge space 100a is formed between the separator 140 and the first sidewall 110a, which facilitates the flow of discharge into the discharge space 100a and its accumulation. The pressure in the discharge space 100a increases, which enables the pressure relief mechanism 130 to be activated in a timely manner, and the discharge can be released in a timely and directional manner, reducing problems such as tearing and cracking of the outer shell 110 of the battery cell 100, and helping to improve the thermal runaway propagation of the battery cell 100.

[0158] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, the discharge space 100a includes a first discharge subspace 100a1 for connecting the pressure relief mechanism 130 and the discharge hole 140a; the separator 140 includes a plate 141 and a protrusion 142 connected to each other, the plate 141 is located between the first sidewall 110a and the electrode assembly 120, and the plate 141 has a discharge hole 140a formed thereon; the protrusion 142 is located on the side of the plate 141 facing the first sidewall 110a, and the protrusion 142 abuts against the first sidewall 110a so that the plate 141 is spaced from the first sidewall 110a and forms the first discharge subspace 100a1.

[0159] The plate 141 can refer to the main body of the partition 140, and the protrusion 142 can refer to the protruding structure provided on the surface of the plate 141 facing the first side wall 110a. The protrusion 142 and the plate 141 can be integrally formed, or they can be separately formed and then connected together. For example, the protrusion 142 and the plate 141 can be connected by welding, snap-fitting, screwing or other methods.

[0160] The discharge hole 140a is provided on the plate 141 and penetrates the plate 141. The discharge material is staggered from the protrusion and the protrusion will not block the discharge hole 140a. The discharge hole 140a can communicate with the first discharge subspace 100a1, so that the discharge material on the electrode assembly 120 side can flow into the first discharge subspace 100a1 through the discharge hole 140a and be collected in the first discharge subspace 100a1 before being discharged in a direction through the pressure relief mechanism 130.

[0161] The protrusion 142 can directly abut against the first sidewall 110a, or it can abut against the first sidewall 110a through other components, such as an insulating sheet.

[0162] The protrusion 142 abuts against the first sidewall 110a, thereby forming a gap between the plate 141 and the first sidewall 110a, which forms the first discharge subspace 100a1. The first discharge subspace 100a1 may be a part of the discharge space 100a or the entire discharge space 100a.

[0163] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the emissions can flow into the first emission subspace 100a1 through the emission hole 140a and collect, and then be discharged through the pressure relief mechanism 130; the first emission subspace 100a1 can provide a collection space for the emissions, thereby guiding the emissions to be directionally depressurized through the pressure relief mechanism 130, reducing problems such as tearing and cracking of the outer shell 110 of the battery cell 100, and helping to improve the thermal runaway propagation of the battery cell 100.

[0164] In some embodiments, the protrusion 142 is arranged around the outer periphery of the pressure relief mechanism 130, and the plate 141 and the protrusion 142 together form a first discharge subspace 100a1.

[0165] The protrusion 142 is arranged around the outer periphery of the pressure relief mechanism 130. It can be understood that, along the thickness direction of the plate 141, the projection of the protrusion 142 is arranged outside the projection of the pressure relief mechanism 130.

[0166] The protrusion 142 has a ring structure. The protrusion 142 can be continuously arranged along the circumference of the pressure relief mechanism 130, or the protrusion 142 includes multiple parts, which are spaced apart along the circumference of the pressure relief mechanism 130.

[0167] The inner sidewall of the protrusion 142 and the surface of the plate 141 facing the first sidewall 110a together form the first row subspace 100a1.

[0168] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the protrusion 142 is arranged around the outer periphery of the pressure relief mechanism 130, reducing the risk of the protrusion 142 obstructing the pressure relief mechanism 130 and reducing the impact of the protrusion 142 on the actuation and opening of the pressure relief mechanism 130, which is conducive to the timely actuation and pressure relief of the pressure relief mechanism 130; the protrusion 142 and the plate 141 surround to form a first discharge subspace 100a1, and the first discharge subspace 100a1 is formed by utilizing the space of the separator 140 itself, which can make full use of the internal space of the battery cell 100, which is conducive to improving the energy density of the battery cell 100; in addition, The protrusion 142 is arranged around the outer periphery of the pressure relief mechanism 130, increasing the volume of the first discharge subspace 100a1. On the one hand, it facilitates the rapid entry of emissions into the first discharge subspace 100a1 for collection. On the other hand, when a large amount of emissions are generated inside the battery cell 100, the first discharge subspace 100a1 can collect a large amount of emissions and cause the pressure relief mechanism 130 to be actuated and opened in time, realizing the directional release of emissions. This reduces problems such as tearing and cracking of the outer shell 110 of the battery cell 100, and helps to improve the thermal runaway propagation of the battery cell 100.

[0169] In some embodiments, the protrusions 142 are distributed along the periphery of the first sidewall 110a.

[0170] The periphery of the first sidewall 110a can refer to the ring structure of the first sidewall 110a near the peripheral wall 110b of the outer shell 110.

[0171] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the protrusion 142 is located at the periphery of the first sidewall 110a, which can effectively increase the volume of the first discharge subspace 100a1. On the one hand, it is beneficial for the discharge to flow into the first discharge subspace 100a1 quickly; on the other hand, when the discharge in the battery cell 100 increases sharply, the volume of the first discharge subspace 100a1 is large, and a large amount of discharge can quickly accumulate in the first discharge subspace 100a1. The pressure in the first discharge subspace 100a1 rises rapidly, and the pressure relief mechanism 130 can be actuated in time to release the pressure, reducing the risk of tearing or cracking of the outer shell 110 of the battery cell 100 and improving the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0172] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 120 is spaced apart from the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 to form a discharge gap 100b; the protrusion 142 is provided with a connecting channel 140b, which is used to connect the first discharge subspace 100a1 and the discharge gap 100b.

[0173] The inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 can refer to the inner surface of the peripheral wall 110b of the housing 110, and the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 120 can refer to the outer surface of the electrode assembly 120 that is disposed opposite to the peripheral wall 110b of the housing 110. These two surfaces are spaced apart to form the discharge gap 100b.

[0174] In some examples, electrode assembly 120 includes an outer surface of electrode assembly 120 disposed opposite to the peripheral wall 110b of housing 110, which is the outer peripheral surface of electrode assembly 120.

[0175] In some examples, electrode assembly 120 includes a plurality of electrode assemblies 120, which form a whole. The outer surface of this whole, which is opposite to the peripheral wall 110b of the housing 110, is the outer peripheral surface of electrode assembly 120.

[0176] For example, the electrode assembly 120 includes two electrode assemblies 120, which are stacked along the width direction of the battery cell 100. The surfaces of the two electrode assemblies 120 facing away from each other along the width direction of the battery cell 100 and the end faces of the two electrode assemblies 120 distributed opposite each other along the width direction together form the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 120.

[0177] The protrusion 142 has an inner side and an outer side, and the connecting channel 140b passes through the inner side and the outer side of the protrusion 142, thereby connecting the first discharge subspace 100a1 located inside the protrusion 142 and the discharge interval located outside the protrusion 142.

[0178] In some examples, the connecting channel 140b may refer to a through hole located inside the protrusion 142, which extends through and passes through the inner and outer surfaces of the protrusion 142.

[0179] In some examples, the connecting channel 140b may refer to a groove formed in the protrusion 142, which extends through the inner side and the outer side of the protrusion 142, and the groove also has an opening formed on the end face of the protrusion 142 facing away from the plate 141; the bottom surface of the groove may be flush with the surface of the plate 141 facing the protrusion 142, or it may be higher or lower than the surface of the plate 141 facing the protrusion 142.

[0180] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the emissions in the emission gap 100b can flow into the first emission subspace 100a1 through the connecting channel 140b, and finally be discharged in a directional manner through the pressure relief mechanism 130. This realizes the directional release of emissions in the emission gap 100b, reduces the risk of tearing or cracking of the outer casing 110 of the battery cell 100, and improves the reliability of the battery cell 100. In addition, the setting of the emission gap 100b also facilitates the installation of the electrode assembly 120 into the outer casing 110.

[0181] In some embodiments, the protrusion 142 includes a plurality of protrusion sub-parts 1421 disposed on the plate 141, the plurality of protrusion sub-parts 1421 being arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the pressure relief mechanism 130, and a communication channel 140b being formed between two adjacent protrusion sub-parts 1421.

[0182] The protrusion 142 has a multi-segmented, discontinuous structure along the circumference of the pressure relief mechanism 130. Each segment is a protrusion sub-section 1421, and the gap between two adjacent protrusion sub-sections 1421 forms a connecting channel 140b. The number of protrusion sub-sections 1421 can be two or more, such as four or eight. The corresponding number of connecting channels 140b can be multiple, such as four or eight.

[0183] In some examples, multiple protrusions 1421 can be arranged at equal intervals along the circumference of the pressure relief mechanism 130, resulting in a regular arrangement structure that is convenient for processing and manufacturing; of course, multiple protrusions 142 can also be arranged at unequal intervals along the circumference of the pressure relief mechanism 130.

[0184] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the protrusion 142 adopts a structure of multiple protruding sub-parts 1421, and a connecting channel 140b is formed between two adjacent protruding sub-parts 1421. This increases the flow area of ​​the connecting channel 140b, reduces the resistance of the emission material entering the first emission sub-space 100a1 from the emission gap 100b, improves the smoothness of the emission material through the pressure relief mechanism 130, reduces the risk of tearing or cracking of the outer shell 110 of the battery cell 100, and improves the reliability of the battery cell 100. In addition, the separator 140 has a simple structure and is easy to process and manufacture.

[0185] In some embodiments, the ratio of the radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 to the inner radial dimension of the housing 110 ranges from 0.9 to 0.99.

[0186] The radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 can refer to the dimension of the electrode assembly 120 along the height direction perpendicular to the battery cell 100, and the inner radial dimension of the housing 110 can refer to the dimension of the internal cavity of the housing 110 along the height direction perpendicular to the battery cell 100, that is, the dimension of the inner circumferential surface of the housing 110 along the height direction perpendicular to the battery cell 100.

[0187] The radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 is E1, and the inner radial dimension of the housing 110 is E2, wherein 0.9≤E1 / E2≤0.99.

[0188] In some examples, referring to Figure 4, the battery cell 100 is a cylindrical battery cell. The battery cell 100 includes an electrode assembly 120. The housing 110 is cylindrical. The radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 can refer to the outer diameter of the electrode assembly 120, and the inner radial dimension of the housing 110 can refer to the inner diameter of the housing 110.

[0189] In some examples, referring to Figure 9, the battery cell 100 is a square battery cell, the outer casing 110 is a cuboid, the electrode assembly 120 is flat, the width direction of the electrode assembly 120 is parallel or nearly parallel to the width direction of the battery cell 100, and the length direction of the electrode assembly 120 is parallel or nearly parallel to the length direction of the battery cell 100.

[0190] As an example, the battery cell 100 includes an electrode assembly 120. The radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 may refer to the width of the electrode assembly 120, and the inner radial dimension of the housing 110 may refer to the inner width of the housing 110, that is, the width of the internal cavity of the housing 110, that is, the distance between two sides that are relatively distributed along the width direction of the battery cell 100 on the inner circumferential surface of the housing 110; or, the radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 may refer to the length of the electrode assembly 120, and the inner radial dimension of the housing 110 may refer to the inner length of the housing 110, that is, the length of the internal cavity of the housing 110, that is, the distance between two sides that are relatively distributed along the length direction of the battery cell 100 on the inner circumferential surface of the housing 110.

[0191] As an example, the battery cell 100 includes a plurality of electrode assemblies 120 stacked along the width direction of the battery cell 100. The radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 may refer to the sum of the widths of all the electrode assemblies 120, and the inner radial dimension of the housing 110 may refer to the inner width of the housing 110. For example, the width of a single electrode assembly 120 is E0, and the number of electrode assemblies 120 is N, where E1 = N * E0. If heat insulation pads are provided between two adjacent electrode assemblies 120, the radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 may refer to the sum of the widths of all the electrode assemblies 120 and the thicknesses of all the heat insulation pads; or, the radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 may refer to the length of the electrode assembly 120, and the inner radial dimension of the housing 110 may refer to the inner length of the housing 110.

[0192] In some examples, the value of E1 / E2 can be 0.9, 0.99, or any value between 0.9 and 0.99. For example, the value of E1 / E2 can be, but is not limited to, 0.9, 0.91, 0.92, 0.93, 0.94, 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, and 0.99.

[0193] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the design with E1 / E2≥0.9 makes the radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the outer casing 110. The larger radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 is beneficial to increasing the capacity of the battery cell 100. The design with E1 / E2≤0.99 allows a discharge gap 100b to be formed between the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 120 and the inner peripheral surface of the outer casing 110, facilitating the installation of the electrode assembly 120 into the outer casing 110. In addition, the discharge material in the discharge gap 100b can flow into the discharge space 100a through the connecting channel 140b and be directionally discharged through the pressure relief mechanism 130. This design can better balance the capacity, pressure relief, and installation of the battery cell 100.

[0194] In some embodiments, the ratio of the radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 to the inner radial dimension of the housing 110 ranges from 0.95 to 0.98.

[0195] It is understandable that 0.95≤E1 / E2≤0.98.

[0196] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the capacity, pressure relief, and installation of the battery cell 100 can be better balanced.

[0197] In some embodiments, referring to FIG4, the ratio of the radial dimension of the separator 140 to the radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 ranges from 0.8 to 1.

[0198] The radial dimension of the separator 140 can refer to the dimension of the separator 140 along the direction perpendicular to the height of the battery cell 100.

[0199] The radial dimension of the separator 140 is E3, where 0.8 ≤ E3 / E1 ≤ 1.

[0200] In some examples, the battery cell 100 is a cylindrical battery cell, and the separator 140 is circular. The radial dimension of the separator 140 may refer to the outer diameter of the separator 140.

[0201] In some examples, the battery cell 100 is a square-shell battery, and the separator 140 is rectangular. The radial dimension E1 of the separator 140 refers to the width of the separator 140, or the radial dimension of the separator 140 refers to the length of the separator 140.

[0202] In some examples, the value of E3 / E1 can be 0.8, 1, or any value between 0.8 and 1. For example, the value of E3 / E1 can be, but is not limited to, 0.8, 0.82, 0.84, 0.86, 0.88, 0.9, 0.92, 0.94, 0.96, 0.98, and 1.

[0203] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the design of E3 / E1≥0.8 makes the radial dimension of the separator 140 slightly smaller than that of the electrode assembly 120. The larger radial dimension of the separator 140 allows it to support the outer periphery of the electrode assembly 120, reducing the risk of collapse and improving the reliability of the battery cell 100. The design of E3 / E1≤1 makes the radial dimension of the separator 140 smaller than the inner diameter of the outer shell 110. This facilitates the insertion of the separator 140 into the outer shell 110 and allows a gap to be formed between the outer periphery of the separator 140 and the inner periphery of the outer shell 110. This allows the waste located in the discharge gap 100b to flow into the discharge space 100a through the gap and the connecting channel 140b, and then be directionally discharged via the pressure relief mechanism 130. This design effectively balances the reliability, pressure relief, and installation of the battery cell 100.

[0204] In some embodiments, the ratio of the radial dimension of the separator 140 to the radial dimension of the electrode assembly 120 ranges from 0.9 to 0.98.

[0205] It is understandable that 0.9≤E3 / E1≤0.98.

[0206] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the reliability of the battery cell 100, pressure relief, and installation can be better balanced.

[0207] In some embodiments, referring to FIG4, the distance between the outer peripheral surface of the separator 140 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 ranges from 0.05 mm to 2 mm.

[0208] The outer peripheral surface of the separator 140 can refer to the outer surface of the separator 140 that is opposite to the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110.

[0209] The distance between the outer peripheral surface of the separator 140 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 is l, where 0.05mm≤l≤2mm.

[0210] In some examples, the battery cell 100 is a cylindrical battery cell, and the distance l between the outer peripheral surface of the separator 140 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 can be equal to half the difference between the inner diameter of the housing 110 and the outer diameter of the separator 140.

[0211] In some examples, the battery cell 100 is a square battery cell, and the distance l between the outer peripheral surface of the separator 140 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 is equal to half the difference between the inner width of the housing 110 and the width of the separator 140; or, the distance l between the outer peripheral surface of the separator 140 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 is equal to half the difference between the inner length of the housing 110 and the length of the separator 140.

[0212] In some examples, the value of l can be 0.05mm, 2mm, or any value between 0.05mm and 2mm. For example, the value of l can be, but is not limited to, 0.05mm, 0.1mm, 0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.8mm, 1mm, 1.2mm, 1.4mm, 1.6mm, 1.8mm, and 2mm.

[0213] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the design with l≥0.05mm creates a gap between the outer peripheral surface of the separator 140 and the inner peripheral surface of the outer shell 110. The discharge material in the discharge gap 100b can flow into the discharge space 100a through this gap and the connecting channel 140b, and be discharged directionally via the pressure relief mechanism 130. The design with l≤2mm results in the radial dimension of the separator 140 being slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the outer shell 110. The large radial dimension of the separator 140 allows it to support the outer peripheral side of the electrode assembly 120, reducing the risk of collapse of the electrode assembly 120 and improving the reliability of the battery cell 100. This design can better balance the reliability of the battery cell 100, pressure relief, and installation.

[0214] In some embodiments, the distance between the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 120 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 ranges from 0.3 mm to 1 mm.

[0215] It is understandable that 0.05mm ≤ l ≤ 2mm.

[0216] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the reliability of the battery cell 100, pressure relief, and installation can be better balanced.

[0217] In some embodiments, referring to FIG4, the thickness of the plate 141 is h1, wherein 0.1mm≤h1≤0.5mm.

[0218] The thickness h1 of plate 141 can refer to the distance between two surfaces that are relatively distributed along the thickness direction of plate 141.

[0219] The value of h1 can be 0.1mm, 0.5mm, or any value between 0.1mm and 0.5mm. For example, the value of h1 can be, but is not limited to, 0.1mm, 0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.4mm, or 0.5mm.

[0220] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the design with h1 ≥ 0.1 mm enables the plate 141 to support the electrode assembly 120, reducing the risk of the electrode assembly 120 collapsing, and also maintaining the shape of the first row subspace 100a1, facilitating the directional pressure relief mechanism 130 and improving the reliability of the battery cell 100. The design with h1 ≤ 0.5 mm reduces the space occupied by the plate 141 and improves the energy density of the battery cell 100. This design can better balance the reliability and energy density of the battery cell 100.

[0221] In some embodiments, the protrusion height of the protrusion 142 is h2, wherein 0 mm < h2 ≤ 3 mm.

[0222] The protrusion height h2 of the protrusion 142 may refer to the height by which the protrusion 142 protrudes from the plate body 141; by way of example, the distance between the surface of the plate body 141 facing the first side wall 110a and the surface of the protrusion 142 for abutting against the first side wall 110a is the protrusion height h2 of the protrusion 142.

[0223] The value of h2 may be 3 mm or any value between 0 mm and 3 mm; by way of example, the value of h2 may be, but is not limited to, 0.1 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 1.5 mm, 3 mm.

[0224] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the design of h2 > 0 mm enables the protrusion 142 to protrude from the surface of the plate body 141, thereby forming the first discharge subspace 100a1 to facilitate the directional pressure relief of the pressure relief mechanism 130; the design of h2 ≤ 3 mm can reduce the space occupied by the separator 140 and improve the energy density of the battery cell 100. Such a design can better balance the use reliability and energy density of the battery cell 100.

[0225] In some embodiments, the plate thickness of the plate body 141 is h1, where 0.1 mm ≤ h1 ≤ 0.5 mm, and the protrusion height of the protrusion 142 is h2, where 0 mm < h2 ≤ 3 mm.

[0226] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the use reliability and energy density of the battery cell 100 can be better balanced.

[0227] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, the discharge space 100a further includes a second discharge subspace 100a2 for connecting the pressure relief mechanism 130 and the first discharge subspace 100a1; the first side wall 110a includes a connected recessed portion 110a1 and a peripheral portion 110a2, and the peripheral portion 110a2 is disposed around the recessed portion 110a1; the recessed portion 110a1 is recessed relative to the peripheral portion 110a2 away from the separator 140 to form the second discharge subspace 100a2.

[0228] The middle part of the first side wall 110a is recessed away from the separator 140 to form a cavity space, which is the second discharge subspace 100a2. The recessed part of the middle of the first side wall 110a forms the recessed portion 110a1, and the part of the first side wall 110a surrounding the recessed portion 110a1 forms the peripheral portion 110a2, and the peripheral portion 110a2 is connected to the peripheral wall 110b of the outer shell 110.

[0229] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the provision of the second discharge subspace 100a2 increases the size of the discharge space 100a. When the battery cell 100 generates a large amount of emissions, the discharge space 100a can accommodate more emissions, thereby guiding a large amount of emissions to be directionally released through the pressure relief mechanism 130. This reduces the risk of the casing 110 being torn and improves the reliability of the battery cell 100. In particular, when the emissions generated inside the battery cell 100 increase sharply, a large amount of emissions can flow into the discharge space 100a through the discharge hole 140a and accumulate, causing a sharp increase in pressure within the discharge space 100a. This allows the pressure relief mechanism 130 to be activated in a timely manner, achieving directional release of emissions and reducing problems such as tearing and cracking of the casing 110 of the battery cell 100. This is beneficial in mitigating the spread of thermal runaway in the battery cell 100.

[0230] In some embodiments, the pressure relief mechanism 130 is provided in the recess 110a1, and the protrusion 142 is used to abut against the peripheral portion 110a2.

[0231] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism 130 is provided in the recessed portion 110a1, which allows the pressure relief mechanism 130 to communicate with the second discharge subspace 100a2. In this way, the discharged material can be collected in the second discharge subspace 100a2 and then directionally relieved from the pressure relief mechanism 130. The protrusion 142 abuts against the peripheral portion 110a2, so that the protrusion 142 abuts against the periphery of the first sidewall 110a, which is beneficial to expand the space of the discharge space 100a and facilitates the directional pressure relief of the pressure relief mechanism 130.

[0232] In some embodiments, the middle part of the recess 110a1 also protrudes toward the separator 140, and the pressure relief mechanism 130 is disposed on the protrusion, so that the pressure relief mechanism 130 does not protrude from the outer surface of the first sidewall 110a, reducing the risk of the pressure relief mechanism 130 being accidentally activated due to contact with external components, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0233] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the electrode assembly 120 has a central hole 120a, and at least one discharge hole 140a includes a first discharge hole 140a1, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole 120a.

[0234] The number of discharge holes 140a can be one or more. When there is only one discharge hole 140a, it is the first discharge hole 140a1. When there are multiple discharge holes 140a, the discharge hole 140a that is arranged opposite to the center hole 120a is the first discharge hole 140a1.

[0235] The center hole 120a can refer to a through hole located at the center of the electrode assembly 120 and penetrating the electrode assembly 120.

[0236] In some examples, the electrode assembly 120 is a wound structure, and the center hole 120a may refer to the through hole formed after the winding needle is removed during the electrode winding process.

[0237] The first discharge hole 140a1 is disposed opposite to and connected to the center hole 120a. In some examples, the first discharge hole 140a1 may be coaxially or nearly coaxially disposed with the center hole 120a, so that the first discharge hole 140a1 and the center hole 120a are connected relative to each other.

[0238] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the first discharge hole 140a1 is connected to the center hole 120a, so that the discharged material can flow into the discharge space 100a through the center hole 120a and the first discharge hole 140a1, and then be directionally discharged through the pressure relief mechanism 130, which improves the smoothness of the discharge and is conducive to improving the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0239] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the diameter of the first discharge hole 140a1 is greater than or equal to the diameter of the central hole 120a.

[0240] The diameter of the first discharge hole 140a1 is d1; the diameter of the central hole 120a is d2; where d1 ≥ d2.

[0241] In some examples, the first discharge hole 140a1 is a circular hole or a near-circular hole, and the diameter of the first discharge hole 140a1 is d1, which is the diameter of the first discharge hole 140a1; the central hole 120a is a circular hole or a near-circular hole, and the diameter of the central hole 120a is d2, which is the diameter of the central hole 120a.

[0242] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the aperture of the first discharge hole 140a1 is greater than or equal to the aperture of the central hole 120a. The larger aperture of the first discharge hole 140a1 results in less resistance to the discharge material in the central hole 120a passing through the first discharge hole 140a1, which improves the smoothness of the discharge material entering the discharge space 100a from the central hole 120a. This facilitates the directional release of the discharge material through the pressure relief mechanism 130 and improves the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0243] In some embodiments, the diameter of the first discharge hole 140a1 is equal to the diameter of the central hole 120a, so that the plate 141 can support the inner ring of the electrode assembly 120 near the central hole 120a, reducing the risk of collapse of the inner ring of the electrode assembly 120 and improving the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0244] In some embodiments, the ratio of the diameter of the central hole 120a to the diameter of the first discharge hole 140a1 ranges from 0.2 to 1.

[0245] 0.2≤d2 / d1≤1, where the value of d2 / d1 can be 0.2, 1, or any value between 0.2 and 1. For example, the value of d2 / d1 can be, but is not limited to, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 0.95, and 1.

[0246] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the design with d2 / d1≥0.2 enables the plate 141 to support the electrode assembly 120, reducing the risk of collapse of the battery cell 100 and improving the reliability of the battery cell 100. The design with d2 / d1≤1 results in low resistance to the discharged material at the first discharge hole 140a1, leading to better discharge efficiency and facilitating the directional discharge of the discharged material through the pressure relief mechanism 130, further improving the reliability of the battery cell 100. This design effectively enhances the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0247] In some embodiments, the ratio of the diameter of the central hole 120a to the diameter of the first discharge hole 140a1 ranges from 0.5 to 0.95.

[0248] It is understandable that 0.5 ≤ d2 / d1 ≤ 0.95.

[0249] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the reliability of the battery cell 100 can be improved.

[0250] In some embodiments, the number of discharge holes 140a is multiple, and the multiple discharge holes 140a include at least one second discharge hole 140a2, which is located around the first discharge hole 140a1.

[0251] Multiple discharge holes 140a are divided into first discharge holes 140a1 and second discharge holes 140a2. Among them, the discharge hole 140a opposite to the central hole 120a is the first discharge hole 140a1, and the other discharge holes 140a are the second discharge holes 140a2. The second discharge hole 140a2 is located between the first discharge hole 140a1 and the protrusion 142. The second discharge hole 140a2 can be arranged opposite to the electrode sheet of the electrode assembly 120, so that the discharge material located between the electrode sheets can be directly discharged through the second discharge hole 140a2, reducing the risk of tearing or cracking of the outer casing 110 and improving the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0252] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, there are multiple second discharge holes 140a2, and the multiple second discharge holes 140a2 are arranged at circumferential intervals along the first discharge hole 140a1.

[0253] The multiple second discharge holes 140a2 may be equidistantly distributed along the circumference of the first discharge hole 140a1, or they may be unequally distributed. The multiple second discharge holes 140a2 may have the same shape or different shapes.

[0254] In some examples, multiple second discharge holes 140a2 are arranged in a ring array with the first discharge hole 140a1 as the center, and the number of rings of the second discharge holes 140a2 can be one or more.

[0255] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the arrangement of multiple second discharge holes 140a2 can increase the discharge area of ​​the effluent between the electrodes of the electrode assembly 120, improve the discharge flow of the effluent between the electrodes of the electrode assembly 120, and facilitate the directional discharge of the effluent. In addition, the multiple second discharge holes 140a2 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first discharge hole 140a1. In this way, the electrodes of the electrode assembly 120 can be divided into multiple regions along the circumference of the first discharge hole 140a1 according to the multiple second discharge holes 140a2. Each region is provided with a corresponding second discharge hole 140a2. The effluent in each region is discharged from the corresponding second discharge hole 140a2, which shortens the discharge distance of the effluent, improves the discharge flow of the effluent, and facilitates the directional discharge of the effluent.

[0256] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the battery cell 100 further includes a central member 150 passing through a central hole 120a.

[0257] The center component 150 may refer to the component located in the center hole 120a. The center component 150 may be made of plastic material, such as plastic.

[0258] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the inner wall of the central hole 120a can be reduced, thereby reducing the risk of collapse of the inner wall of the central hole 120a and improving the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0259] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG11, there are multiple discharge holes 140a, and the multiple discharge holes 140a are arranged around the center of the plate 141.

[0260] The center of plate 141 can refer to the geometric center of plate 141. In some examples, plate 141 is circular, and the center of the circle is the center of plate 141; or, plate 141 is rectangular, and the geometric center of the rectangle is the center of plate 141.

[0261] The number of discharge holes 140a is greater than or equal to two, for example: four, five, or eight.

[0262] Multiple discharge holes 140a are arranged around the center of the plate 141. It can be understood that the multiple discharge holes 140a are distributed on the periphery of the center of the plate 141. The multiple discharge holes 140a can be arranged at equal intervals or at unequal intervals. For example, the multiple discharge holes 140a are arranged in a ring array with the center of the plate 141 as the center. In this way, the discharge holes 140a can be evenly distributed on the plate 141, which improves the discharge effect of the discharge in the electrode assembly 120 and improves the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0263] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the arrangement of multiple discharge holes 140a can increase the discharge area of ​​the discharge material between the electrodes of the electrode assembly 120, improve the discharge flow of the discharge material between the electrodes of the electrode assembly 120, and facilitate the directional discharge of the discharge material. In addition, the multiple discharge holes 140a are arranged around the center of the plate 141, so the electrode assembly 120 can be divided into multiple regions according to the multiple discharge holes 140a. Each region is provided with a corresponding discharge hole 140a. The discharge material in each region is discharged from the corresponding discharge hole 140a, which shortens the discharge distance of the discharge material, improves the discharge flow of the discharge material, and facilitates the directional discharge of the discharge material.

[0264] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG13, the separator 140 includes a reinforcing rib 143, which is connected to the plate 141.

[0265] The reinforcing rib 143 can refer to the reinforcing rib structure provided on the plate 141.

[0266] In some examples, the reinforcing rib 143 may refer to protruding ribs formed on the surface of the plate 141 and connecting ribs provided in the discharge hole 140a. The reinforcing rib 143 and the plate 141 may be integrally formed or separately formed and then connected together. For example, the reinforcing rib 143 and the plate 141 may be connected by welding, snap-fitting, screwing, or other methods.

[0267] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the reinforcing rib 143 can increase the structural strength of the plate 141, so that the separator 140 can stably support the electrode assembly 120, reduce the risk of collapse of the electrode assembly 120, and help improve the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0268] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG12, the separator 140 may also exclude the reinforcing rib 143.

[0269] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG13, the reinforcing rib 143 is connected to the surface of the plate 141 facing the first sidewall 110a.

[0270] It is understood that the reinforcing rib 143 can refer to the convex rib structure provided on the surface of the plate 141 facing the first side wall 110a.

[0271] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the reinforcing rib 143 is located on the side of the plate 141 facing away from the electrode assembly 120. The reinforcing rib 143 does not contact the electrode assembly 120, reducing the risk of damage to the electrode assembly 120 caused by the protruding reinforcing rib 143 squeezing the electrode assembly 120, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0272] In some embodiments, along the thickness direction of the plate 141, at least a portion of the projection of the discharge hole 140a and the projection of the reinforcing rib 143 do not coincide.

[0273] It is understandable that all the discharge holes 140a are offset from the reinforcing rib 143, or that some of the discharge holes 140a are offset from the reinforcing rib 143, while other discharge holes 140a partially overlap with the reinforcing rib 143.

[0274] In some examples, the first discharge hole 140a1 partially overlaps with the reinforcing rib 143, while the second discharge hole 140a2 is offset from the reinforcing rib 143.

[0275] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, at least part of the discharge hole 140a will not be blocked by the reinforcing rib 143, which is conducive to improving the smoothness of discharge and improving the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0276] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG12, the reinforcing rib portion 143 includes at least one first reinforcing rib 1431, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the opposite sides of the protrusion portion 142.

[0277] The first reinforcing rib 1431 can refer to the raised rib on the surface of the plate 141, and the number of the first reinforcing rib 1431 can be one or more.

[0278] At the two ends of the first reinforcing rib 1431 that are distributed opposite each other along the length direction, one end is connected to one side of the protrusion 142, and the other end is connected to the other side of the protrusion 142. The first reinforcing rib 1431 and the protrusion 142 can be integrally formed, or they can be separately formed and then connected together. For example, the first reinforcing rib 1431 and the protrusion 142 can be connected by welding, snap-fitting, screwing, or other methods.

[0279] In some examples, referring to Figure 13, the protrusion 142 is annular, and the first reinforcing rib 1431 can extend radially from one side of the protrusion 142 to the other. Of course, in other examples, the first reinforcing rib 1431 can also extend in a direction inclined relative to the radial direction of the protrusion 142 or in other directions.

[0280] In some examples, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the two ends of the first reinforcing rib 1431 are respectively connected to two oppositely arranged protruding sub-parts 1421.

[0281] In some examples, as shown in Figure 11, the protrusion 142 is rectangular, and the first reinforcing rib 1431 is connected between two opposite corners of the protrusion 142.

[0282] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the relative connection between the two ends of the first reinforcing rib 1431 and the protrusion 142 can increase the structural strength of the separator 140, improve the supporting effect of the separator 140 on the electrode assembly 120, and improve the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0283] In some embodiments, referring to FIG13, the electrode assembly 120 has a central hole 120a, and at least one discharge hole 140a includes a first discharge hole 140a1, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole 120a; the reinforcing rib portion 143 includes at least one first reinforcing rib 1431, which is connected to the surface of the plate 141 facing the first sidewall 110a, and the projection of the first reinforcing rib 1431 intersects with the projection of the first discharge hole 140a1 along the thickness direction of the plate 141.

[0284] Along the thickness direction of the plate 141, the projection of the first reinforcing rib 1431 intersects with the projection of the first discharge hole 140a1. It can be understood that the first reinforcing rib 1431 spans the first discharge hole 140a1, connecting the opposite sides of the first discharge hole 140a1. It should be noted that the first reinforcing rib 1431 does not block the first discharge hole 140a1, allowing the discharged material to pass through the first discharge hole 140a1.

[0285] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the first reinforcing rib 1431 spans the first discharge hole 140a1. The first reinforcing rib 1431 can also improve the structural strength at the first discharge hole 140a1, which is beneficial to improve the structural strength of the separator 140, improve the supporting effect of the separator 140 on the electrode assembly 120, and improve the reliability of the battery cell 100. In addition, the first reinforcing rib 1431 can also support the electrode assembly 120 at the first discharge hole 140a1, reduce the risk of the electrode assembly 120 falling out of the first discharge hole 140a1 and collapsing, and improve the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0286] In some embodiments, there are multiple first reinforcing ribs 1431, and along the thickness direction of the plate 141, the projection of the intersecting portion of at least two first reinforcing ribs 1431 is located within the projection of the first discharge hole 140a1.

[0287] The number of first reinforcing ribs 1431 can be two, three, four, or more than five. Among them, the number of intersecting first reinforcing ribs 1431 can be two, three, or four; and it can be that some of the first reinforcing ribs 1431 intersect at one point, or that all of the first reinforcing ribs 1431 intersect at one point.

[0288] Along the thickness direction of the plate 141, the projection of the intersecting portion of at least two first reinforcing ribs 1431 is located within the projection of the first discharge hole 140a1. It can be understood that the first reinforcing ribs 1431 extending in different directions and crossing the first discharge hole 140a1 intersect at the first discharge hole 140a1.

[0289] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the intersection of at least two first reinforcing ribs 1431 is located at the first discharge hole 140a1, which can increase the structural strength at the discharge hole 140a, which is beneficial to improve the structural strength of the separator 140, improve the support effect on the electrode assembly 120, reduce the risk of collapse of the electrode assembly 120, and improve the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0290] In some embodiments, referring to FIG16, the electrode assembly 120 has a central hole 120a, and at least one discharge hole 140a includes a first discharge hole 140a1, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole 120a; the reinforcing rib 143 includes a second reinforcing rib 1432, which is connected to the plate 141 and is circumferentially disposed around the outer periphery of the first discharge hole 140a1.

[0291] The second reinforcing rib 1432 has a ring structure. The inner side of the second reinforcing rib 1432 can be flush with the inner wall of the first discharge hole 140a1 or spaced apart from the inner wall of the first discharge hole 140a1. The second reinforcing rib 1432 is located between the first discharge hole 140a1 and the protrusion 142.

[0292] In some examples, the reinforcing rib portion 143 includes only the second reinforcing rib 1432, or the reinforcing rib portion 143 includes a first reinforcing rib 1431 and a second reinforcing rib 1432, wherein the first reinforcing rib 1431 may pass through the second reinforcing rib 1432 and be connected to the second reinforcing rib 1432.

[0293] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the second reinforcing rib 1432 can increase the structural strength of the outer periphery of the first discharge hole 140a1, improve the structural strength of the separator 140, improve the supporting effect of the separator 140 on the electrode assembly 120, and improve the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0294] In some examples, the reinforcing rib 143 may consist of only the first reinforcing rib 1431.

[0295] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 17 and 18, the electrode assembly 120 has a central hole 120a, and at least one discharge hole 140a includes a first discharge hole 140a1, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole 120a; the reinforcing rib portion 143 also includes a third reinforcing rib 1433, which is located inside the first discharge hole 140a1, and both ends of the third reinforcing rib 1433 are respectively connected to the hole wall of the first discharge hole 140a1.

[0296] The third reinforcing rib 1433 can refer to a connecting strip disposed within the first discharge hole 140a1. The number of third reinforcing ribs 1433 can be one or more, and multiple third reinforcing ribs 1433 can be disposed at intervals or intersecting.

[0297] In some examples, the reinforcing rib 143 includes only the third reinforcing rib 1433.

[0298] In some examples, the reinforcing rib 143 includes a first reinforcing rib 1431 and a third reinforcing rib 1433.

[0299] For example, looking along the thickness direction of the plate 141, the first reinforcing rib 1431 can overlap with the third reinforcing rib 1433, which can increase the discharge area of ​​the first discharge hole 140a1, improve the smoothness of discharge, and reduce the risk of cracking, tearing and other problems in the outer shell 110.

[0300] For example, when viewed along the thickness direction of the plate 141, the first reinforcing rib 1431 may also be staggered from the third reinforcing rib 1433.

[0301] In some examples, the reinforcing rib 143 includes a second reinforcing rib 1432 and a third reinforcing rib 1433.

[0302] In some examples, the reinforcing rib 143 includes a first reinforcing rib 1431, a second reinforcing rib 1432, and a third reinforcing rib 1433.

[0303] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the third reinforcing rib 1433 can increase the structural strength at the first discharge hole 140a1 and improve the structural strength of the separator 140; the third reinforcing rib 1433 is provided in the first discharge hole 140a1, which can improve the structural compactness of the battery cell 100, increase the energy density of the battery cell 100, and support the electrode assembly 120, reduce the risk of the electrode assembly 120 collapsing and falling into the first discharge hole 140a1, reduce the risk of the first discharge hole 140a1 being blocked, improve the discharge smoothness of the emissions, and help improve the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0304] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 6-10, the battery cell 100 includes an insulating member 170, which covers the electrode assembly 120. The insulating member 170 has a first insulating portion 171, which is located between the separator 140 and the electrode assembly 120. The first insulating portion 171 is provided with a first communication hole 170a for communicating with a discharge hole 140a.

[0305] Insulator 170 can refer to an insulating component covering the outside of electrode assembly 120. Insulator 170 can separate electrode assembly 120 from housing 110, reducing the short-circuit risk of battery cell 100 and improving the reliability of battery cell 100. The material of insulator 170 can be, but is not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate and polyimide.

[0306] In some examples, the insulating member 170 can be folded to cover the outer shell 110 of the electrode assembly 120, or the insulating member 170 can be a barrel-shaped component with the electrode assembly 120 placed directly on the insulating member 170. Of course, in the examples, the insulating member 170 can also be in other forms. The number of electrode assemblies 120 covered by the insulating member 170 can be one or more.

[0307] The portion of the insulating member 170 located between the separator 140 and the electrode assembly 120 forms a first insulating portion 171. The first insulating portion 171 has a first connecting hole 170a that penetrates the first insulating portion 171, allowing the discharge material located on the electrode assembly 120 side to flow through the first connecting hole 170a into the discharge hole 140a, and then through the discharge hole 140a to the pressure relief mechanism 130, where it is finally discharged. The number of first connecting holes 170a can be one or more.

[0308] In some examples, the first connecting hole 170a can be arranged opposite to the discharge hole 140a, which can reduce the discharge resistance of the discharge and improve the discharge smoothness, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the battery cell 100. Of course, in other examples, the first connecting hole 170a can also be staggered from the discharge hole 140a.

[0309] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the setting of the insulating component 170 can insulate and separate the electrode assembly 120 from the outer casing 110, reducing the short circuit risk of the battery cell 100; in addition, the setting of the first connecting hole 170a can facilitate the discharge of pollutants and improve the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0310] In some embodiments, the insulating member 170 includes a second insulating portion 172 connected to the first insulating portion 171. The second insulating portion 172 is located between the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 120 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110. The second insulating portion 172 is circumferentially disposed outside the electrode assembly 120. The second insulating portion 172 is provided with a second connecting hole 170b. The second insulating portion 172 is spaced apart from the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 to form a connecting gap 100c. The connecting gap 100c is used to connect the second connecting hole 170b and the discharge hole 140a.

[0311] The second insulating portion 172 may refer to the portion of the insulating member 170 located between the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 120 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 111. The second insulating portion 172 has a ring structure to surround the outside of the battery assembly.

[0312] The second insulating part 172 and the inner peripheral surface of the outer casing 110 are spaced apart to form a gap, which is the connecting gap 100c. The connecting gap 100c is connected to the discharge hole 140a. For example, the connecting gap 100c can be directly connected to the discharge hole 140a, or it can be connected through the gap between the first insulating part 171 and the separator 140.

[0313] The second insulating part 172 is provided with a second connecting hole 170b, which penetrates the second insulating part 172, so that the second connecting hole 170b communicates with the connecting gap 100c.

[0314] In some examples, the insulating member 170 is folded over the electrode assembly 120. The second connecting hole 170b can be provided at the fold line of the insulating member 170. The second connecting hole 170b can reduce the structural strength of the insulating member 170 at the fold line and facilitate the folding of the insulating member 170. For example, there can be multiple second connecting holes 170b, which can be arranged at intervals along the fold line. Of course, in other examples, the second connecting hole 170b can also be provided at other positions of the second insulating part 172.

[0315] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the emissions located on the electrode assembly 120 side can flow to the emission hole 140a through the second connecting hole 170b and the connecting gap 100c, which increases the emission path of the emissions, helps to improve the emission smoothness of the emissions, and improves the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0316] In some embodiments, the housing 110 further includes a second sidewall 110b, the first sidewall 110a and the second sidewall 110b are disposed opposite to each other, the electrode assembly 120 has a tab 121 extending from the end face of the second sidewall 110b, the second sidewall 110b is provided with an electrode terminal 160, and the electrode terminal 160 is electrically connected to the tab 121.

[0317] The second sidewall 110b can refer to the sidewall of the outer casing 110 where the electrode terminal 160 is provided. The second sidewall 110b can refer to the end cap 112 mentioned above, or it can refer to the sidewall of the outer casing 111 mentioned above.

[0318] The tab 121 can refer to the component led out from the electrode assembly 120 for outputting or inputting electrical energy. The tab 121 includes a positive tab and a negative tab. The tab 121 led out from the positive electrode plate is the positive tab, and the tab 121 led out from the negative electrode plate is the negative tab.

[0319] Electrode terminal 160 can refer to a conductive component used for inputting or outputting electrical energy. The material of electrode terminal 160 can be, but is not limited to, copper or aluminum. Electrode terminal 160 includes a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal. The positive electrode terminal is connected to the positive tab, and the negative electrode terminal is connected to the negative tab, thereby realizing the input or output of electrical energy of battery cell 100. Electrode terminal 160 is independently formed from housing 110 and assembled together during the production process of battery cell 100. Electrode terminal 160 is insulatedly disposed on end cap 112 or housing 111.

[0320] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism 130 and the electrode terminal 160 are located on opposite sides of the battery cell 100, which can reduce the impact of the emissions discharged by the pressure relief mechanism 130 on the electrode terminal 160 and improve the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0321] In some embodiments, the material of the separator 140 includes at least one of aluminum, copper, steel, polypropylene (PP), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), polyethylene (PE), silicon carbide (SiC), and ceramic.

[0322] The separator 140 can be made of one or more of the following materials: aluminum, copper, steel, polypropylene (PP), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), polyethylene (PE), silicon carbide (SiC), and ceramic.

[0323] By adopting the technical solution of this embodiment, the material of the separator 140 adopts the above solution, so that the separator 140 has good structural strength, can play a good supporting role for the electrode assembly 120, and improve the reliability of the battery cell 100.

[0324] In some embodiments, the battery cell 100 is a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, or a square battery cell.

[0325] In some examples, the battery cell 100 is a cylindrical battery cell, the outer casing 110 has a cylindrical structure, the first sidewall 110a and the second sidewall 110b are circular, and the separator 140 is also circular.

[0326] In some examples, the battery cell 100 is a prismatic battery cell, the outer casing 110 has a prismatic structure, the first sidewall 110a and the second sidewall 110b are regular polygons, and the separator 140 is also a regular polygon structure.

[0327] In some examples, the battery cell 100 is a square battery cell, the casing 110 has a cubic structure, the first sidewall 110a and the second sidewall 110b are rectangular, and the separator 140 is also rectangular.

[0328] The technical solutions of this application can be applied to cylindrical battery cells, prismatic battery cells, and square battery cells, and have a wide range of applications.

[0329] The present application will be described below with reference to some specific embodiments.

[0330] Example 1

[0331] In this embodiment, referring to Figures 1-5, the battery cell 100 is a cylindrical battery cell. The battery cell 100 includes a housing 110, an electrode assembly 120, a pressure relief mechanism 130, and a separator 140. The housing 110 includes a shell 111 and two end caps 112. The electrode assembly 120 and the separator 140 are located inside the shell 111. The two ends of the shell 111 are provided with openings. The two end caps 112 are respectively covered at the two outlets and close the two openings. One end cap 112 is provided with a pressure relief mechanism 130. This end cap 112 forms the first sidewall 110a of the housing 110. The other end cap 112 is provided with an electrode terminal 160 and forms the second sidewall 110b of the housing 110. The electrode assembly 120 has tabs 121 leading out, and the tabs 121 are connected to the electrode terminals 160.

[0332] In this embodiment, the separator 140 includes a plate 141 and a protrusion 142. The plate 141 has a plurality of discharge holes 140a. The protrusion 142 is arranged around the periphery of the plate 141. The protrusion 142 and the plate 141 together form a first discharge subspace 100a1 that communicates with the discharge holes 140a. The first sidewall 110a includes a recess 110a1 and a peripheral side portion 110a2 arranged around the recess 110a1. The recess 110a1 is recessed away from the separator 140 relative to the peripheral side portion 110a2, thereby forming a second discharge subspace 100a2. The pressure relief mechanism 130 is provided in the recess 110a1, and the protrusion 142 abuts against the peripheral side portion 110a2, so that the first discharge subspace 100a1 and the second discharge subspace 100a2 together form the discharge space 100a.

[0333] In this embodiment, the plurality of discharge holes 140a include a first discharge hole 140a1 and a plurality of second discharge holes 140a2. The electrode assembly 120 has a central hole 120a. The first discharge hole 140a1 is disposed opposite to the central hole 120a, and the plurality of second discharge holes 140a2 are distributed circumferentially at intervals along the first discharge hole 140a1.

[0334] In this embodiment, the separator 140 includes a reinforcing rib portion 143, which includes two first reinforcing ribs 1431 disposed on the surface of the plate 141 facing the first sidewall 110a. The two first reinforcing ribs 1431 intersect and are perpendicular, and both ends of the two first reinforcing ribs 1431 are connected to the protrusion 142. The intersection of the two first reinforcing ribs 1431 is located at the first discharge hole 140a1.

[0335] In this embodiment, the reinforcing rib 143 includes a third reinforcing rib 1433, which is located inside the first discharge hole 140a1, and the two ends of the third reinforcing rib 1433 are connected to the hole wall of the first discharge hole 140a1 respectively.

[0336] Example 2

[0337] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is as follows: Referring to Figures 6-11, the battery cell 100 is a square battery cell, the plate 141 is rectangular, and two first reinforcing ribs 1431 are respectively connected to two opposite corners. There are multiple discharge holes 140a, which are distributed around the center of the plate 141 and staggered from the first reinforcing ribs 1431.

[0338] In this embodiment, the battery cell 100 includes an insulating member 170, which covers the electrode assembly 120. The insulating member 170 has a first insulating portion 171, which is located between the separator 140 and the electrode assembly 120. The first insulating portion 171 is provided with a first connecting hole 170a for communicating with the discharge hole 140a.

[0339] In this embodiment, the insulating member 170 includes a second insulating part 172 connected to the first insulating part 171. The second insulating part 172 is located between the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 120 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110. The second insulating part 172 is circumferentially disposed outside the electrode assembly 120. The second insulating part 172 is provided with a second connecting hole 170b. The second insulating part 172 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 are spaced apart to form a connecting gap 100c. The connecting gap 100c is used to connect the second connecting hole 170b and the discharge hole 140a.

[0340] Example 3

[0341] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that, as shown in Figure 12, the separator 140 does not include the reinforcing rib 143.

[0342] Example 4

[0343] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that, as shown in Figure 13, the shape of the second discharge hole 140a2 is different.

[0344] Example 5

[0345] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is as follows: Referring to Figures 14 and 15, the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 120 and the inner peripheral surface of the housing 110 are spaced apart to form a discharge gap 100b. The protrusion 142 includes a plurality of protrusion sub-parts 1421, which are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the pressure relief mechanism 130. A connecting channel 140b is formed between two adjacent protrusion sub-parts 1421. The connecting channel 140b is connected to the discharge gap 100b, so that the discharge material in the discharge gap 100b can enter the discharge space 100a through the connecting channel 140b and then be directionally discharged through the pressure relief mechanism 130.

[0346] The number of protrusions 1421 can be four or eight.

[0347] Example 6

[0348] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that: the reinforcing rib portion 143 includes two second reinforcing ribs 1432 disposed on the surface of the plate 141 facing the first sidewall 110a. The second reinforcing ribs 1432 are arranged around the outer periphery of the first discharge hole 140a1. The second reinforcing ribs 1432 are located between the first discharge hole 140a1 and the protrusion 142. The two ends of the two first reinforcing ribs 1431 pass through the second reinforcing rib portion 143.

[0349] In some embodiments, referring to FIG19, a battery device 1100 is provided, including a plurality of the above-described battery cells 100.

[0350] The battery device 1100 mentioned in the embodiments of this application may include one or more battery cell assemblies for providing voltage and capacity. A battery cell assembly may include multiple battery cells 100, which are connected in series, parallel, or mixed connections via busbars.

[0351] In some examples, a battery cell assembly is typically formed by arranging multiple battery cells 100 together.

[0352] As an example, a battery cell assembly can be a battery module, which is formed by arranging and fixing multiple battery cells 100 together to form an independent module. As an example, a battery module can also be formed by bundling multiple battery cells 100 together with cable ties.

[0353] In some examples, the battery device 1100 may be a battery pack, which includes a housing 200 and one or more individual battery cells housed within the housing 200.

[0354] As an example, the battery cell assembly can be a battery module, and the battery cell assembly can be housed in the housing 200 by fixing the battery module in the housing 200.

[0355] As an example, the battery cell assembly can also be housed in the housing 200 by directly fixing multiple battery cells 100 to the housing 200.

[0356] As an example, the housing 200 may include a first housing 210 and a second housing 220. The first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are fastened together to form a closed space inside the housing 200 to house the battery cell assembly. Here, "closed" refers to covering or closing, and can be either sealed or unsealed. The first housing 210 may be a top cover or a bottom plate.

[0357] As an example, the housing 200 may include a top cover, a frame, and a bottom plate. The top cover and the bottom plate are respectively connected to the frame, so that the interior of the housing 200 forms an enclosed space to accommodate the battery cell assembly.

[0358] In some examples, the housing 200 may be part of the chassis structure of the vehicle 1000. For example, a portion of the housing 200 may be at least a portion of the floor of the vehicle 1000, or a portion of the housing 200 may be at least a portion of the crossbeams and longitudinal beams of the vehicle 1000.

[0359] The battery device 1100 of this application embodiment adopts the above-mentioned battery cell 100. The battery cell 100 has good reliability and can also help to improve the spread of thermal runaway of the battery cell 100, thereby improving the reliability of the battery device 1100.

[0360] In some embodiments, referring to FIG20, an energy storage device 2000 is provided, including a plurality of the above-described battery cells 100 or a plurality of the above-described battery devices 1100, wherein the battery cells 100 or battery devices 1100 are used to store or provide electrical energy.

[0361] This application provides an energy storage device 2000, including one or more battery clusters 2200 to increase the voltage and capacity of the energy storage device 2000. The battery cluster 2200 may include multiple battery devices 1100, which are connected in series via a busbar to increase the voltage of the energy storage device 2000. When the energy storage device 2000 includes multiple battery clusters 2200, the multiple battery clusters 2200 are connected in parallel to increase the capacity of the energy storage device 2000.

[0362] The energy storage device 2000 can be used in energy storage power stations, wind power generation systems, solar power generation systems, mobile power systems, or temporary power supply systems, etc. The energy storage device 2000 can store electrical energy as needed and output it when appropriate. For example, the energy storage device 2000 can store electrical energy during off-peak hours and provide power to relevant users or electrical equipment during peak hours. The energy storage system 3000 provided in this application embodiment can be any power system that requires the use of the energy storage device 2000.

[0363] In some examples, the energy storage device 2000 is an energy storage container or an energy storage cabinet.

[0364] In some examples, the energy storage device 2000 may include a cabinet 2100 and one or more battery clusters 2200, which are housed in the cabinet 2100.

[0365] In some examples, the energy storage device 2000 may include modules such as a thermal management module, a main control module, a central control module, a power distribution module, and a fire protection module.

[0366] As an example, the thermal management module may include a liquid cooling unit that supplies coolant to each battery device 1100 via pipelines for regulating the temperature of the individual battery cells 100.

[0367] As an example, the main control module can serve as the battery management unit for the battery cluster 2200, used to monitor and manage the battery cluster 2200. The main control module can monitor information such as the current, voltage, power, or temperature of the battery cluster 2200. For example, it can control the charging and discharging current and voltage of the battery cluster 2200. The main control module includes a slave battery management unit (SBMU), a fusion switch, and other modules.

[0368] As an example, the central control module can serve as the battery management unit of the energy storage device 2000, used for monitoring and managing the device. The central control module can monitor information such as the current, voltage, power, state of charge, and temperature of the energy storage device 2000. For example, it can control the charging and discharging current and voltage of the device. As an example, the central control module includes modules such as the Insulation Monitoring Module (IMM), the Master Battery Management Unit (MBMU), the Ethernet (ETH) module, and the fiber optic conversion module.

[0369] As an example, the fire protection module includes a control panel, detectors, alarm devices, etc., used to detect, alarm, or extinguish fires in the energy storage system 3000.

[0370] As an example, the power distribution module can be used to distribute power to modules in the energy storage device 2000 that require electricity.

[0371] The energy storage device 2000 of this application embodiment adopts the above-mentioned battery cell 100 or battery device 1100. The battery cell 100 and battery device 1100 have good reliability, which improves the reliability of the energy storage device 2000.

[0372] In some embodiments, referring to FIG21, an energy storage system 3000 is provided, including a power conversion device and the aforementioned energy storage device 2000, wherein the power conversion device is used to electrically connect a power generation device and the energy storage device 2000.

[0373] In some examples, the energy storage system 3000 may include one or more energy storage devices 2000 and a power conversion system (PCS) 3100, which is connected between the power generation device 3200 and the energy storage device 2000. The power generation device 3200 generates electrical energy, which can be stored in the energy storage device 2000 via the power conversion system 3100. As an example, the power generation device 3200 may specifically be a solar panel, a hydroelectric power generation device, a thermal power generation device, a wind power generation device, etc.

[0374] The energy storage system 3000 of this application embodiment adopts the above-mentioned energy storage device 2000. The energy storage device 2000 has good reliability, which improves the reliability of the energy storage system 3000.

[0375] In some embodiments, referring to FIG22, an electrical device is provided, including the battery cell 100, the battery device 1100, the energy storage device 2000 or the energy storage system 3000 described above, wherein the battery cell 100 or the battery device 1100 is used to store or provide electrical energy.

[0376] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to various electrical devices that use battery cells 100, such as mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, electric vehicles, electric toys, power tools, vehicles 1000, ships and spacecraft, etc. For example, spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles and spacecraft.

[0377] For ease of explanation, the following embodiments will be described using a vehicle 1000 as an example of an electrical device.

[0378] Vehicle 1000 can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. A battery is installed inside vehicle 1000, which can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of vehicle 1000. The battery can be used to power vehicle 1000; for example, the battery can serve as the operating power source for vehicle 1000. Vehicle 1000 may also include a controller 1200 and a motor 1300. The controller 1200 is used to control the battery to supply power to the motor 1300, for example, to meet the power needs of vehicle 1000 during starting, navigation, and driving.

[0379] In some embodiments of this application, the battery can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000, but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 1000, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.

[0380] The electrical device in this application embodiment uses the aforementioned battery cell 100, battery device 1100, energy storage device 2000 or energy storage system 3000. The battery cell 100, battery device 1100, energy storage device 2000 and energy storage system 3000 have good reliability, thus improving the reliability of the electrical device.

[0381] In some embodiments, referring to FIG23, a charging network 4000 is provided, including a charging pile 4100 and the above-mentioned energy storage device 2000 or the above-mentioned energy storage system 3000, wherein the energy storage device 2000 is used to provide electrical energy to the charging pile 4100.

[0382] In some examples, the charging network 4000 includes a charging pile 4100 and an energy storage device 2000. The charging pile 4100 is electrically connected to the energy storage device 2000, which provides electrical energy to the charging pile 4100. The charging pile 4100 is electrically connected to a battery device 1100 in the energy storage device 2000 via a cable, and the battery device 1100 can provide its stored electrical energy to the charging pile 4100. The charging pile 4100 has one or more connectors 4200 for connecting to electrical equipment (such as a vehicle 1000) to replenish the power of the electrical equipment.

[0383] The energy storage device 2000 can be located inside the charging pile 4100 (e.g., an integrated energy storage and charging unit) or outside the charging pile 4100.

[0384] The charging network 4000 of this application embodiment adopts the above-mentioned energy storage device 2000 or energy storage system 3000. The energy storage device 2000 and energy storage system 3000 have good reliability, which improves the reliability of the charging network 4000.

[0385] The description of the various embodiments above tends to emphasize the differences between the various embodiments. The similarities or similarities between them can be referred to, and for the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0386] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application 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 or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A battery cell, wherein, include: The outer casing has a first sidewall; Electrode assembly, disposed within the housing; The pressure relief mechanism is located on the first side wall; as well as A separator is disposed within the housing, the separator being located between the electrode assembly and the first sidewall; the separator has at least one discharge hole communicating with the pressure relief mechanism, so that emissions generated inside the battery cell can flow through the discharge hole to the pressure relief mechanism and be discharged through the pressure relief mechanism.

2. The battery cell of claim 1, wherein: A discharge space is formed between the separator and the first sidewall, and the discharge space is used to connect the pressure relief mechanism and the discharge hole.

3. The battery cell of claim 2, wherein: The discharge space includes a first discharge subspace for connecting the pressure relief mechanism and the discharge port; The separator includes a connected plate and a protrusion, the plate being located between the first sidewall and the electrode assembly, and the plate having the discharge hole; The protrusion is located on the side of the plate facing the first sidewall, and the protrusion abuts against the first sidewall to space the plate from the first sidewall and form the first discharge subspace.

4. The battery cell of claim 3, wherein: The protrusion is arranged around the outer periphery of the pressure relief mechanism, and the plate and the protrusion together form the first discharge subspace.

5. The battery cell of claim 4, wherein: The protrusions are distributed along the periphery of the first sidewall.

6. The battery cell of claim 4 or 5, wherein: The outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly is spaced apart from the inner peripheral surface of the housing to form a discharge gap; The protrusion is provided with a connecting channel, which is used to connect the first discharge subspace and the discharge gap.

7. The battery cell of claim 6, wherein: The protrusion includes a plurality of protruding sub-parts disposed on the plate body. The plurality of protruding sub-parts are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the pressure relief mechanism, and a connecting channel is formed between two adjacent protruding sub-parts.

8. The battery cell of claim 6 or 7, wherein: The ratio of the radial dimension of the electrode assembly to the inner radial dimension of the housing ranges from 0.9 to 0.99; optionally, the ratio of the radial dimension of the electrode assembly to the inner radial dimension of the housing ranges from 0.95 to 0.

98.

9. The battery cell of any one of claims 6-8, wherein: The ratio of the radial dimension of the separator to the radial dimension of the electrode assembly is in the range of 0.8 to 1. Optionally, the ratio of the radial dimension of the separator to the radial dimension of the electrode assembly is in the range of 0.9 to 0.

98.

10. The battery cell of any one of claims 6-9, wherein: The distance between the outer peripheral surface of the separator and the inner peripheral surface of the housing ranges from 0.05 mm to 2 mm. Optionally, the distance between the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly and the inner peripheral surface of the housing ranges from 0.3 mm to 1 mm.

11. The battery cell of any one of claims 3-10, wherein: The thickness of the plate is h1, wherein 0.1mm ≤ h1 ≤ 0.5mm; and / or the protrusion height of the protrusion is h2, wherein 0mm < h2 ≤ 3mm.

12. The battery cell of any one of claims 3-11, wherein: The discharge space also includes a second discharge subspace for connecting the pressure relief mechanism and the first discharge subspace; The first sidewall includes a recessed portion and a peripheral portion connected to each other, the peripheral portion being disposed around the recessed portion; The recessed portion is recessed away from the separator relative to the peripheral portion to form the second discharge subspace.

13. The battery cell of claim 12, wherein: The pressure relief mechanism is located in the recessed portion, and the protrusion is used to abut against the peripheral portion.

14. The battery cell of any one of claims 3-13, wherein: The electrode assembly has a central hole, and the at least one discharge hole includes a first discharge hole, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole.

15. The battery cell of claim 14, wherein: The diameter of the first discharge hole is greater than or equal to the diameter of the central hole.

16. The battery cell of claim 14 or 15, wherein: The ratio of the diameter of the central hole to the diameter of the first discharge hole is in the range of 0.2 to 1. Optionally, the ratio of the diameter of the central hole to the diameter of the first discharge hole is in the range of 0.5 to 0.

95.

17. The battery cell of any one of claims 14-16, wherein: The number of discharge holes is multiple, and the multiple discharge holes include at least one second discharge hole, which is located on the periphery of the first discharge hole.

18. The battery cell of claim 17, wherein: The number of second discharge holes is multiple, and the multiple second discharge holes are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first discharge hole.

19. The battery cell of any one of claims 14-18, wherein: The battery cell also includes a central component that passes through the central hole.

20. The battery cell of any one of claims 3-13, wherein: The number of discharge holes is multiple, and the multiple discharge holes are arranged around the center of the plate.

21. The battery cell of any one of claims 3-20, wherein: The separator includes a reinforcing rib, which is connected to the plate.

22. The battery cell of claim 21, wherein: The reinforcing rib is connected to the surface of the plate facing the first sidewall.

23. The battery cell of claim 22, wherein: Along the thickness direction of the plate, at least a portion of the projection of the discharge hole and the projection of the reinforcing rib do not coincide.

24. The battery cell of any one of claims 21-23, wherein: The reinforcing rib includes at least one first reinforcing rib, and the two ends of the first reinforcing rib are respectively connected to the opposite sides of the protrusion.

25. The battery cell of any one of claims 21-24, wherein: The electrode assembly has a central hole, and the at least one discharge hole includes a first discharge hole, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole. The reinforcing rib includes at least one first reinforcing rib, which is connected to the surface of the plate facing the first sidewall. Along the thickness direction of the plate, the projection of the first reinforcing rib intersects with the projection of the first discharge hole.

26. The battery cell of claim 25, wherein: There are multiple first reinforcing ribs, and along the thickness direction of the plate, the projection of the intersecting portion of at least two first reinforcing ribs is located within the projection of the first discharge hole.

27. The battery cell of any one of claims 21-26, wherein: The electrode assembly has a central hole, and the at least one discharge hole includes a first discharge hole, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole. The reinforcing rib includes a second reinforcing rib, which is connected to the plate and is arranged around the outer periphery of the first discharge hole.

28. The battery cell of any one of claims 21-27, wherein: The electrode assembly has a central hole, and the at least one discharge hole includes a first discharge hole, which is disposed opposite to and communicates with the central hole. The reinforcing rib includes a third reinforcing rib, which is located inside the first discharge hole, and its two ends are respectively connected to the hole wall of the first discharge hole.

29. The battery cell of any one of claims 1-28, wherein: The battery cell includes an insulating member that covers the electrode assembly. The insulating member has a first insulating portion located between the separator and the electrode assembly. The first insulating portion has a first connecting hole for communicating with the discharge port.

30. The battery cell of claim 29, wherein: The insulating component includes a second insulating portion connected to the first insulating portion. The second insulating portion is located between the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly and the inner peripheral surface of the housing. The second insulating portion is circumferentially disposed around the electrode assembly. The second insulating portion has a second connecting hole. The second insulating portion and the inner peripheral surface of the housing are spaced apart to form a connecting gap. The connecting gap is used to connect the second connecting hole and the discharge hole.

31. The battery cell of any one of claims 1-30, wherein: The housing also includes a second sidewall. The first sidewall and the second sidewall are disposed opposite to each other. The electrode assembly has a tab extending from its end face facing the second sidewall. The second sidewall is provided with an electrode terminal, and the electrode terminal is electrically connected to the tab.

32. The battery cell of any one of claims 1-31, wherein: The material of the separator includes at least one of aluminum, copper, steel, polypropylene, polyphenylene sulfide, polyimide, polyethylene, silicon carbide, and ceramic.

33. The battery cell of any one of claims 1-32, wherein: The battery cell can be a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, or a square battery cell.

34. A battery device, wherein: It includes multiple battery cells according to any one of claims 1 to 33.

35. An energy storage device, wherein: It includes a plurality of battery cells according to any one of claims 1 to 33 or a plurality of battery devices according to claim 34, wherein the battery cells or the battery devices are used to store or provide electrical energy.

36. An energy storage system, wherein: It includes a power conversion device and an energy storage device as described in claim 35, wherein the power conversion device is used to electrically connect the power generation device and the energy storage device.

37. An electrical device, comprising: It includes a battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 33, a battery device according to claim 34, an energy storage device according to claim 35, or an energy storage system according to claim 36, wherein the battery cell or the battery device is used to store or provide electrical energy.

38. A charging network, wherein: It includes a charging pile and an energy storage device as described in claim 35 or an energy storage system as described in claim 36, wherein the energy storage device is used to provide electrical energy to the charging pile.

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