Lithium battery testing apparatus

Abstract

This application provides a lithium battery testing device, comprising: a cabinet with a receiving cavity inside; a formation and capacity testing device disposed within the receiving cavity, the formation and capacity testing device comprising: a first support disposed within the receiving cavity and configured to support the battery; and a heat exchange mechanism comprising a heat exchange device and an airflow driving assembly, the heat exchange device being disposed below and connected to the first support, and the airflow driving assembly being located within the receiving cavity. The lithium battery testing device disclosed in this application achieves a more compact layout and more efficient direct temperature control.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery production equipment technology, and in particular to a lithium battery testing device. Background Technology

[0002] In the lithium battery production process, formation and capacity testing are crucial steps. During these processes, the battery generates heat due to internal chemical reactions. To ensure consistent battery performance, safety, and lifespan, precise control of the ambient temperature is essential. Currently, lithium battery testing equipment typically requires independent liquid-cooled heat exchangers, fans, and dedicated external air circulation ducts on one or both sides of the cabinet. During temperature control, the fan extracts the hot air generated by the batteries inside the cabinet, cools it by passing it through the external heat exchanger, and then re-blown the cooled air into the battery tray area inside the cabinet through the dedicated air duct.

[0003] However, the need to independently configure complete heat exchange modules on the outside or side of the cabinet results in a complex overall structure, large space occupation, and high manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the additional air ducts and components make equipment maintenance inconvenient. Secondly, the temperature control path is lengthy. After the cold air flows out of the heat exchanger, it must pass through multiple stages, including a long external circulation duct, a side fan, and internal cabinet ducts, before reaching the battery. Significant energy loss occurs during this transport process, leading to low system temperature control efficiency and high energy consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application discloses a lithium battery testing device that reduces the overall size and energy consumption of the lithium battery testing device, avoiding the problems of complex structure, large space occupation, difficult maintenance and high energy loss caused by independently setting external air ducts, heat exchangers and fans.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of this application discloses a lithium battery testing device, the lithium battery testing device comprising: The cabinet has a receiving cavity inside; A separation and dispensing device, wherein the separation and dispensing device is disposed within the receiving cavity, the separation and dispensing device comprising: A first support is disposed within the receiving cavity and configured to support the battery; A heat exchange mechanism, comprising a heat exchange device and an airflow drive assembly, wherein the heat exchange device is disposed below and connected to the first support, and the airflow drive assembly is located within the receiving cavity.

[0006] As an optional implementation, the airflow drive assembly includes: a first airflow drive member located above the battery support mechanism, the first airflow drive member being configured to drive gas in the receiving cavity to flow from the bottom of the cabinet to the top of the cabinet; and / or, a second airflow drive member located below the battery support mechanism, the second airflow drive member being configured to drive gas in the receiving cavity to flow from the bottom of the cabinet to the top of the cabinet.

[0007] As an alternative implementation, a second support is configured to carry the probe assembly. The second support is connected to the first airflow drive and is located above the first support. At least one of the second support and the first support is configured to be movable in a vertical direction to change the distance between the second support and the first support in the vertical direction, thereby bringing the probe assembly closer to or away from the battery carried by the first support.

[0008] As an alternative implementation, the heat exchange device is configured to exchange heat with the gas via thermal conduction to absorb heat from the gas, and the heat exchange device includes a cooling pipe configured to carry a cooling medium to dissipate heat from the heat exchange device.

[0009] As an optional implementation, the heat exchange device further includes a housing, and the cooling pipes are disposed within the housing. The cooling pipes include an inlet and an outlet, both of which are located on one side of the housing, and the side is parallel to the vertical direction.

[0010] As an optional implementation, the heat exchange device further includes: a first flexible connecting pipe, a first end of which is connected to the water inlet, and a second end of which is connected to an external liquid supply device; a second flexible connecting pipe, a first end of which is connected to the water outlet, and a second end of which is connected to the external liquid supply device; and a fixing member disposed on the housing, the fixing member being configured to fix the first flexible connecting pipe and the second flexible connecting pipe.

[0011] As an optional implementation, the lithium battery testing equipment further includes: two connecting joints, one of which is disposed between the first end of the first flexible connecting tube and the water inlet to connect the first flexible connecting tube and the heat exchange device, and the other connecting joint is disposed between the first end of the second flexible connecting tube and the water outlet to connect the second flexible connecting tube and the heat exchange device; and a locking member, which is sleeved on the connecting joint and configured to press the connecting joint to prevent the connecting joint from separating from the first flexible connecting tube or the second flexible connecting tube.

[0012] As an optional implementation, the lithium battery testing equipment further includes a liquid receiving tray, which is disposed below the first support, and the vertical projection of the end of the cooling pipe is located within the liquid receiving tray.

[0013] As an optional implementation, the second airflow drive is located between the battery support mechanism and the heat exchange device, and the second airflow drive is spaced apart from the heat exchange device, so that the gas in the accommodating cavity flows through the battery support mechanism and absorbs heat, then passes through the second airflow drive and the first airflow drive in sequence, and returns to the heat exchange device for heat exchange.

[0014] In one optional embodiment, the second bracket includes a first mounting cavity extending through the second bracket in the vertical direction, the first airflow drive member being located within the first mounting cavity, and the outer peripheral surface of the first airflow drive member being in contact with the inner wall of the first mounting cavity; the first bracket also includes a second mounting cavity extending through the first bracket in the vertical direction, the second airflow drive member being located within the second mounting cavity, and the outer peripheral surface of the second airflow drive member being in contact with the inner wall of the second mounting cavity.

[0015] As an optional implementation, the first airflow drive includes a plurality of first fans, each of which drives the gas to flow upward, and the plurality of first fans are arranged in an array along the horizontal direction within the first mounting cavity; and / or the second airflow drive includes a plurality of second fans, each of which drives the gas to flow upward, and the plurality of second fans are arranged in an array along the horizontal direction within the second mounting cavity.

[0016] As an optional implementation, the lithium battery testing equipment further includes: a slide rail provided at the bottom of the first support, the slide rail extending along the width direction of the first support; and a guide block provided for the heat exchange device, the guide block being configured to slide in cooperation with the slide rail, the guide block being able to slide along the extension direction of the slide rail, so that the heat exchange device slides within the receiving cavity along the width direction of the first support.

[0017] In one optional implementation, the airflow drive assembly includes a first airflow drive member and a second airflow drive member; a guiding gap for gas flow is formed between the inner wall of the cabinet and the side wall of the lithium battery testing equipment; the airflow drive assembly is configured to drive the gas flow within the receiving cavity, so that the gas flows through the guiding gap to the first support and circulates within the receiving cavity; a first gap exists between the first airflow drive member and the second airflow drive member; a second gap exists between the first airflow drive member and the top surface of the cabinet; a third gap exists between the heat exchange device and the bottom surface of the cabinet; the first gap, the second gap, the guiding gap, and the third gap are sequentially connected to form a closed path for the gas to circulate within the receiving cavity.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this application are: The lithium battery testing equipment provided in this application integrates a heat exchange device directly below the battery support structure and utilizes the structural gap between the cabinet and the device to construct a compact and efficient airflow circulation cooling system built into a single housing cavity. This overcomes the inherent defects of existing external circulation hydraulic control technology, simplifies the structure of the lithium battery testing equipment, eliminates the need for external independent air ducts, side heat exchangers, and auxiliary fans, reducing manufacturing costs, overall size, and ease of maintenance. Simultaneously, due to the short cooling path and low airflow resistance, high energy utilization efficiency is achieved, reducing the operating energy consumption of the lithium battery testing equipment. Furthermore, the internal circulation mode ensures a uniform and stable temperature field, improving the consistency and quality of battery formation and capacity testing processes. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments 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.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a gas flow diagram from the prior art; Figure 2This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the lithium battery testing equipment provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the chemical reaction and reaction apparatus provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of the lithium battery testing equipment provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the lithium battery testing equipment provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is the fourth schematic diagram of the structure of the lithium battery testing equipment provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of gas flow provided for an embodiment of this application.

[0021] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 100-Lithium battery testing equipment; 1-Cabinet; 1a-Receiving cavity; 11-Flow guide gap; 12-First gap; 13-Second gap; 14-Third gap; 2-Formation and capacity testing device; 21-Battery carrying mechanism; 22-Heat exchange mechanism; 221-Heat exchange device; 2211-First flexible connecting pipe; 2212-Second flexible connecting pipe; 2213-Fixing component; 222-Airflow drive assembly; 2221-First airflow drive component; 22211-First fan; 2222-Second airflow drive component; 23-Second bracket; 24-First bracket. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0023] In this application, the terms "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "inner," "vertical," and "horizontal," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing this application and its embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated device, element, or component to having a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.

[0024] Furthermore, in addition to indicating location or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in some cases to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0025] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "equipped with," and "connected" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; 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, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0026] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are primarily used to distinguish different devices, components, or parts (which may be the same or different in specific type and construction), and are not intended to indicate or imply the relative importance or quantity of the indicated devices, components, or parts. Unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0027] In the lithium battery production process, formation and capacity testing are crucial steps. During these processes, the battery generates heat due to internal chemical reactions. To ensure consistent battery performance, safety, and lifespan, precise control of the ambient temperature is essential. Currently, liquid temperature control systems are widely used in lithium battery testing equipment to achieve this.

[0028] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a gas flow diagram from the existing technology. The current temperature control scheme is an external circulation liquid control method. Specifically, a liquid-cooled heat exchanger, a fan, and a dedicated external circulation air duct are independently installed on one or both sides of the formation and capacity cabinet. During temperature control, the fan draws the hot air generated by the batteries inside the cabinet, allowing it to flow through the external heat exchanger for cooling. The cooled air is then blown back into the battery tray area inside the cabinet through the dedicated air duct. Typically, a fan under the tray is also needed to promote upward airflow to envelop the batteries and dissipate heat.

[0029] However, the aforementioned existing technical solutions have significant drawbacks: First, because a complete heat exchange module, including heat exchangers, fans, and air ducts, needs to be independently configured on the outside or side of the cabinet, the overall structure of the equipment is complex, occupies a large space, and has high manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the additional air ducts and components make equipment maintenance inconvenient. Second, the temperature control path is lengthy. After the cold air flows out of the heat exchanger, it must pass through multiple stages, including a long external circulation air duct, a side fan, and an internal cabinet air duct, before reaching the battery. Energy is significantly lost during this transmission process, resulting in low system temperature control efficiency and high energy consumption.

[0030] Based on this, this application discloses a lithium battery testing device, which reduces the overall size and energy consumption of the lithium battery testing device, avoiding the problems of complex structure, large space occupation, difficult maintenance and high energy loss caused by independently setting external air ducts, heat exchangers and fans.

[0031] The technical solution of this application will be further described below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0032] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 2 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the lithium battery testing equipment 100 provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the formation and capacity testing device 2 provided in an embodiment of this application. This application discloses a lithium battery testing device 100, which includes: a cabinet 1 with a receiving cavity 1a inside; a formation and capacity testing device 2 disposed within the receiving cavity 1a, comprising: a battery carrying mechanism 21 configured to carry a battery; and a heat exchange mechanism 22 including a heat exchange device 221 and an airflow drive assembly 222, the heat exchange device 221 being disposed within the battery carrying mechanism 1a. Below the structure 21, the heat exchange device 221 is configured to absorb the heat of the gas flowing through the heat exchange device 221 to cool the gas flowing through the heat exchange device 221. The airflow drive assembly 222 is located in the receiving cavity 1a. A guide gap 11 for gas flow is formed between the inner wall of the cabinet 1 and the side wall of the lithium battery testing equipment 100. The airflow drive assembly 222 is configured to drive the gas flow in the receiving cavity 1a so that the gas flows through the guide gap 11 to the battery carrying mechanism 21 and circulates in the receiving cavity 1a.

[0033] The cabinet 1 constitutes the main external support and protection structure of the lithium battery testing equipment 100. The internal cavity 1a of the cabinet 1 provides an independent and controllable physical space for the formation and capacity testing process. Compared to existing technologies that require additional independent air ducts outside the cabinet 1, this application confines all airflow circulation within a single internal cavity 1a of the cabinet 1, eliminating reliance on external additional air duct structures. This simplifies the overall mechanical structure of the lithium battery testing equipment 100, reduces the number of parts, and lowers manufacturing costs and assembly complexity. Simultaneously, by eliminating external air ducts, the width of the lithium battery testing equipment 100 is reduced, achieving miniaturization and compactness, which is more conducive to production line layout and space utilization.

[0034] The formation and capacity testing unit 2 is used to perform battery formation and capacity testing processes and is located within the housing cavity 1a of the cabinet 1. The battery carrying mechanism 21 in the formation and capacity testing unit 2 is directly responsible for carrying one or more batteries to be processed.

[0035] The first support 24 is configured to support the battery support mechanism 21, and the second airflow drive 2222 and the heat exchange device 221 are both connected to the first support 24. The first support 24 integrates the battery support mechanism 21, the second airflow drive 2222 that drives the cooling airflow, and the heat exchange device 221 that performs the heat exchange into a whole. This integration allows the source of the cooling airflow, the second airflow drive 2222, and the target area to be mechanically combined, ensuring that the cooling airflow path is the shortest and most direct, reducing energy loss and heat dissipation during the flow process, and improving cooling efficiency.

[0036] Optionally, the formation and capacity testing device 2 may further include a battery support mechanism 21, which is disposed on the first support 24 and is used to support the battery. The specific form of the battery support mechanism 21 may be a tray, a support, or a modular support unit, used to ensure that the battery is securely placed and in a preset process position.

[0037] It is understandable that placing the battery support mechanism 21 within the receiving cavity 1a allows the battery, support mechanism, and temperature control system to form a highly integrated functional unit, shortening the path of the temperature-controlled airflow to the battery and laying the foundation for subsequent efficient and direct temperature control. The heat generated by the battery can be more quickly carried away by the surrounding circulating airflow, avoiding the accumulation and dissipation of heat in the long air duct.

[0038] The heat exchange device 221 is located below the battery support mechanism 21. When the gas in the receiving cavity 1a flows through the heat exchange device 221, the heat exchange device 221 absorbs heat from the gas, thereby lowering the gas temperature and forming a cooling airflow. By moving the heat exchange device 221 from its position on the side or outside of the cabinet 1 in the conventional solution to directly below the battery support mechanism 21, the cooling airflow is generated close to the heat source, achieving source cooling, shortening the cold air delivery distance, reducing pressure loss and cooling loss during airflow delivery, thereby reducing the drive energy consumption of the fan and improving the energy efficiency of the entire cooling system.

[0039] Meanwhile, the heat exchange device 221 is located directly below the battery support mechanism 21, eliminating the original independent heat exchanger installation space and related air ducts located on both sides of the cabinet 1, compressing the width of the lithium battery testing equipment 100, simplifying the internal layout of the cabinet 1, and enabling the cooling airflow to flow naturally or forcibly over the battery surface from bottom to top, which conforms to the physical law of hot air rising and is conducive to forming a uniform and effective cooling flow field.

[0040] The airflow drive assembly 222 is also located within the receiving cavity 1a and is used to power the gas circulation within the receiving cavity 1a. The airflow drive assembly 222 drives the gas to flow along a preset path.

[0041] Specifically, during operation, the battery to be processed is placed on the battery support mechanism 21. After the lithium battery testing equipment 100 is started, the airflow drive component 222 begins to operate, driving the gas flow within the containment cavity 1a. The gas is first guided to flow through the battery support mechanism 21, across the battery surface, absorbing the heat generated during the battery's formation and capacity testing, thus increasing its own temperature. Under the continuous drive of the airflow drive component 222, the heated air leaves the battery area and re-enters the containment cavity 1a, flowing back to the heat exchange device 221. Here, the heat in the gas is absorbed by the cooling medium within the heat exchange device 221, reducing the gas temperature to cold air. The cooled gas, under the action of the airflow drive component 222, is then directionally transported back to the area where the battery support mechanism 21 is located.

[0042] Thus, the lithium battery testing equipment 100 provided in this application integrates the heat exchange device 221 directly below the battery support structure 21, and utilizes the structural gap between the cabinet 1 and the device to construct a compact and efficient airflow circulation cooling system built into a single receiving cavity 1a. This overcomes the inherent defects of existing external circulation liquid control technology, simplifies the structure of the lithium battery testing equipment 100, eliminates the need for external independent air ducts, side heat exchangers, and auxiliary fans, reduces the manufacturing cost of the lithium battery testing equipment 100, reduces its overall size, and improves maintenance convenience; at the same time, due to the short cooling path and low airflow circulation resistance, it achieves high energy utilization efficiency and reduces the operating energy consumption of the lithium battery testing equipment 100; in addition, the internal circulation mode ensures a uniform and stable temperature field, improving the consistency quality of the battery formation and capacity testing process.

[0043] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments, the airflow drive assembly 222 includes: a first airflow drive member 2221, which is located above the battery support mechanism 21 and is configured to drive the gas in the receiving cavity 1a to flow from the bottom of the cabinet 1 to the top of the cabinet 1; and a second airflow drive member 2222, which is located below the first bracket 24 and is configured to drive the gas in the receiving cavity 1a to flow from the bottom of the cabinet 1 to the top of the cabinet 1.

[0044] The first airflow drive component 2221 is located above the first support 24 and is configured to drive the gas in the receiving cavity 1a to flow from the bottom to the top of the cabinet 1. The first airflow drive component 2221 can effectively generate an upward airflow traction force in the area above the first support 24, quickly drawing the relatively high-temperature gas that has flowed through the first support 24 and absorbed battery heat away from the battery area, preventing heat from accumulating above the battery and forming a heat stagnation zone, thereby ensuring the uniformity of the ambient temperature above the battery. At the same time, this upward suction effect works in conjunction with the natural upward trend of hot air, reducing driving resistance and helping to form a stable and smooth longitudinal airflow main path.

[0045] The second airflow drive unit 2222 is located below the first support 24, and it is also configured to drive the gas to flow from the bottom to the top of the cabinet 1. The second airflow drive unit 2222 acts on the low-temperature gas cooled by the heat exchange device 221. After the second airflow drive unit 2222 is activated, it can actively push the cold air cooled by the heat exchange device 221 upward into and flow through the area of ​​the battery support mechanism 21.

[0046] It is understood that the second airflow drive component 2222 ensures a smooth path for the cooling airflow to the battery, providing sufficient dynamic pressure to overcome any potential flow resistance. This allows the cooling airflow to fully and evenly cover the bottom and sides of the battery, achieving direct and efficient heat exchange. Placing the second airflow drive component 2222 after the heat exchange device 221 maximizes the utilization of the kinetic energy of the cooled gas, reduces energy loss during long-distance transmission, and achieves spatial matching between power application and cooling requirements.

[0047] The coordinated operation of the first airflow drive component 2221 and the second airflow drive component 2222 constitutes a dual-power drive system with a clear upstream and downstream division of labor. The second airflow drive component 2222 pushes cold air upward to contact the battery downstream, while the first airflow drive component 2221 pulls hot air away from the battery area upstream. This enhances the flow efficiency and certainty of the gas in the internal circulation duct, avoids dead zones or airflow short circuits that may be caused by a single power source, and ensures the reliability and efficiency of the entire closed-loop process from heat exchange, transportation, heat transfer to return flow. Thus, under the premise of a compact structure, it achieves faster, more uniform, and more energy-efficient precise control of the battery ambient temperature.

[0048] Please see Figure 2In some embodiments, the formation and capacity testing device 2 further includes a second support 23 configured to carry a probe assembly. The second support 23 is connected to a first airflow drive 2221 and is located above a first support 24. At least one of the second support 23 and the first support 24 is configured to be movable in a vertical direction to change the distance between the second support 23 and the first support 24 in the vertical direction, thereby bringing the probe assembly closer to or away from the battery carried by the first support 24.

[0049] The second bracket 23 is configured to support the probe assembly, and the second bracket 23 is connected to the first airflow drive 2221. The two functional units, the probe assembly for battery electrical performance testing and the first airflow drive 2221 for guiding airflow, are integrated and fixed on the same second bracket 23, forming an integrated functional module and simplifying the upper structure.

[0050] In some embodiments, the heat exchange device 221 is configured to exchange heat with a gas via thermal conduction to absorb heat from the gas, and the heat exchange device 221 includes a cooling conduit configured to carry a cooling medium to dissipate heat from the heat exchange device 221.

[0051] Heat transfer relies on direct contact and microscopic thermal motion between a solid heat transfer component and the flowing gas. Compared to other heat exchange methods, this approach establishes an efficient, direct, and responsive heat transfer path between the heat exchange device 221 and the flowing gas. When a high-temperature gas flows through the heat transfer component with a large surface area in the heat exchange device 221, heat can be rapidly transferred from gas molecules to the solid material, resulting in a significant reduction in gas temperature. This heat transfer mechanism based on heat conduction offers the advantages of a direct heat exchange process with minimal energy loss, high efficiency and speed of heat transfer, enabling the heat exchange device 221 to respond quickly to changes in airflow temperature.

[0052] Meanwhile, the heat exchange device 221 includes cooling pipes configured to carry a cooling medium, which dissipates heat from the heat exchange device 221. As a key internal structure of the heat exchange device 221, the cooling pipes form a closed network of fluid channels. The continuously flowing cooling medium (e.g., water or a specific coolant) within the cooling pipes acts as the final heat carrier. Through the circulation of the cooling medium, the heat absorbed by the heat exchange device 221 from the gas via thermal conduction can be continuously and extensively transferred and carried away. The design of the cooling pipes ensures sufficient thermal contact between the cooling medium and the heat conduction components of the heat exchange device 221, ensuring that the absorbed heat is removed from the heat exchange device 221 in a timely and efficient manner, thereby maintaining the continuous cooling capacity of the heat exchange device 221.

[0053] In some embodiments, the heat exchange device 221 further includes a housing, within which cooling pipes are disposed. The cooling pipes include inlets and outlets, both located on one side of the housing, parallel to the vertical direction. Concentrating the inlets and outlets on the same vertical side of the housing firstly ensures that all pipe connections to the external cooling system are aligned in a clear and consistent location. This centralized arrangement simplifies the layout design and installation of the cooling medium pipes. All inlet and return pipes can be planned and fixed along the same direction, resulting in a more orderly and organized pipe arrangement, reducing pipe crossings and tangles, and lowering the risk of installation errors or interference due to pipe clutter. Secondly, since this side is parallel to the vertical direction, meaning the interfaces face the side of the lithium battery testing equipment 100 rather than the top or bottom, this directional choice makes the cooling pipe outlet direction more compatible with the horizontal space, facilitating the fixing of the cooling pipe routing and spatial optimization.

[0054] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments, the heat exchange device 221 further includes: a first flexible connecting pipe 2211, the first end of which is connected to the water inlet and the second end of which is connected to an external liquid supply device; a second flexible connecting pipe 2212, the first end of which is connected to the water outlet and the second end of which is connected to an external liquid supply device; and a fixing member 2213, which is disposed in the housing and configured to fix the first flexible connecting pipe 2211 and the second flexible connecting pipe 2212.

[0055] The first flexible connecting pipe 2211 provides the necessary path flexibility and displacement compensation capability for the entry of the cooling medium. Since the heat exchange device 221 is integrated into the first support 24 and may move up and down with the first support 24, the first flexible connecting pipe 2211 can adapt to such vertical displacement changes through its own bending deformation, avoiding the risk of stress concentration at the connection, loosening of the joint, or pipeline damage caused by relative movement due to the use of rigid pipes, thereby ensuring a continuous and reliable supply of cooling medium.

[0056] The second flexible connecting pipe 2212 corresponds to the first flexible connecting pipe 2211, together forming a complete flexible return channel. This allows the cooling medium heated by the heat exchanger 221 to smoothly return to the external circulation system. Simultaneously, when the heat exchanger 221 moves, the second flexible connecting pipe 2212 can also absorb displacement through flexible deformation, maintaining the sealing integrity of the outlet connection. The combined action of the first flexible connecting pipe 2211 and the second flexible connecting pipe 2212 ensures good motion tracking at the critical power interface of the entire cooling medium circulation loop, reducing the negative impact of mechanical movement on the hydraulic stability and sealing of the cooling system.

[0057] Furthermore, the fastener 2213 provides active constraint and management of the flexible connecting pipes. Although the first flexible connecting pipe 2211 and the second flexible connecting pipe 2212 are flexible, without proper fixation during frequent lifting movements or long-term operation, the flexible connecting pipes may experience unexpected swinging, friction, or interference with surrounding components, leading to loosening of the joints. The fastener 2213 securely clamps or binds a portion of the first flexible connecting pipe 2211 and the second flexible connecting pipe 2212 or the area near the joint to the housing, limiting the range and amplitude of movement of the flexible connecting pipes during movement, reducing unnecessary stress at the joints, further ensuring the sealing reliability of the inlet and outlet connection, and extending the service life of the entire cooling medium connection system.

[0058] In some embodiments, the lithium battery testing equipment 100 further includes: two connecting joints, one of which is disposed between the first end of the first flexible connecting tube 2211 and the water inlet to connect the first flexible connecting tube 2211 and the heat exchange device 221, and the other connecting joint is disposed between the first end of the second flexible connecting tube 2212 and the water outlet to connect the second flexible connecting tube 2212 and the heat exchange device 221; and a locking member, which is sleeved on the connecting joint and configured to press the connecting joint to prevent the connecting joint from separating from the first flexible connecting tube 2211 or the second flexible connecting tube 2212.

[0059] The connector, acting as an independent intermediate connecting element, eliminates the need for plugging or bonding between the first flexible connecting pipe 2211, the second flexible connecting pipe 2212, and the heat exchange device 221. Instead, it enables a detachable mechanical connection through the connector structure. This design makes the connection interface more reliable, adaptable to the connection requirements of different materials, and facilitates subsequent maintenance and replacement. When either the flexible connecting pipe or the heat exchange device 221 needs to be replaced individually, the two can be separated simply by operating the connector, without damaging the entire piping system.

[0060] Because the connecting joints can be selected according to the actual dimensions of the inlet and outlet, as well as the diameters of the first flexible connecting pipe 2211 and the second flexible connecting pipe 2212, dimensional tolerances between components can be effectively absorbed, reducing the requirements for machining precision. During assembly, operators can first install the connecting joints on the inlet and outlet, and then connect the flexible connecting pipes to the joints. This step-by-step assembly method improves the convenience and success rate of operation. Furthermore, the connecting joints can be made of metal or high-strength engineering plastics, possessing good pressure resistance and corrosion resistance, and can withstand the pressure and chemical effects of the cooling medium for extended periods, ensuring the durability of the connection parts.

[0061] A locking element is fitted onto the connecting joint and is configured to press the connecting joint to prevent separation between the connecting joint and the first flexible connecting pipe 2211 or the second flexible connecting pipe 2212. The locking element further enhances the reliability of the connection. During the operation of the lithium battery testing equipment 100, there is a certain water pressure in the cooling pipeline, and the heat exchange device 221 may be displaced due to equipment vibration or sliding. These factors may cause the connecting joint to loosen. The locking element applies radial or axial clamping force to form a tighter fit between the connecting joint and the flexible connecting pipe, effectively preventing loosening caused by pressure fluctuations or mechanical vibration, thereby ensuring the continuity and sealing of the cooling medium supply.

[0062] The locking mechanism is designed with ease of maintenance in mind. When inspection or replacement of the heat exchanger 221 or flexible connecting pipe is required, operators can easily loosen the locking mechanism to release the clamping pressure on the connection joint and then perform the separation operation. This releasable locking method ensures both robustness and reliability during operation, while avoiding the maintenance difficulties associated with irreversible connections such as one-time locking or welding. Optionally, the locking mechanism can employ a threaded or clamp structure, which is simple to operate and can be completed without special tools, further enhancing the maintainability of the lithium battery testing equipment 100.

[0063] In some embodiments, the lithium battery testing equipment 100 further includes a liquid receiving tray, which is disposed below the first support 24, and the vertical projection of the end of the cooling pipe is located within the liquid receiving tray. Whether at the connection between the first flexible connecting pipe 2211 and the water inlet, or at the connection between the second flexible connecting pipe 2212 and the water outlet, in the event of a cooling medium leak, the leaked liquid, falling vertically under gravity, will inevitably fall into the liquid receiving tray below, and will not drip onto the battery or other components of the equipment supported on the first support 24.

[0064] From the perspective of preventing leakage hazards, the cooling pipes in the lithium battery testing equipment 100 may experience minor leaks during long-term operation due to factors such as aging of seals, external mechanical impact, or loose installation. The cooling medium is typically water or a specialized coolant. If it drips directly onto the battery surface, it may cause a short circuit or damage to the battery's performance; if it drips onto the charge / discharge module or electrical components, it may cause electrical faults or even safety accidents. The drip tray, by catching any dripping liquid, isolates these potential hazards outside the battery area, providing a safety net for the safe operation of the equipment.

[0065] The condensate tray, positioned below the first support 24, also prevents the adverse effects of condensation. During the operation of the heat exchange device 221, the low-temperature cooling medium flowing through the cooling pipes causes the pipe surface temperature to drop below the dew point temperature of the air inside the containment cavity, resulting in condensation on the surfaces of the first flexible connecting pipe 2211 and the second flexible connecting pipe 2212, as well as at the connecting joints. This condensate can collect along the pipe walls and may drip. The condensate tray vertically covers the projected end areas of the first flexible connecting pipe 2211 and the second flexible connecting pipe 2212, meaning that the condensate is also caught during its formation and dripping, preventing it from dripping directly into the battery or equipment, thus preventing battery corrosion or degradation of electrical insulation performance due to condensate accumulation.

[0066] The drip tray simplifies equipment cleaning and maintenance. Without it, even a small leak or drop of condensate would spread to the bottom of cabinet 1 or the battery tray, making cleaning difficult and potentially creating hazards. The drip tray collects liquid in a confined area, allowing operators to easily perform regular checks and cleaning, or drain the liquid to a collection container through the drain port on the tray. This centralized collection design makes leak handling more controllable and efficient.

[0067] Please see Figure 2 In some embodiments, the second airflow drive 2222 is located between the first support 24 and the heat exchange device 221, so that the gas in the receiving cavity 1a flows through the first support 24 and absorbs heat, and then passes through the first airflow drive 2221 and the circulating air duct in sequence, and returns to the heat exchange device 221 for heat exchange.

[0068] The second airflow drive component 2222 is disposed between the first support 24 and the heat exchange device 221, that is, between the air outlet side of the heat exchange device 221 and the air inlet side of the first support 24, becoming the necessary driving link for the upward flow of the cooled airflow. The position of the second airflow drive component 2222 ensures that the low-temperature gas cooled by the heat exchange device 221 can be directly captured by the second airflow drive component 2222 and converted into a cooling airflow with a clear direction and sufficient kinetic energy. The second airflow drive component 2222 is close to the heat exchange device 221, which minimizes the power transmission distance of the cold airflow and avoids kinetic energy loss and temperature rise caused by path diffusion or resistance in the initial stage of the cooling gas transportation, thereby ensuring that the cooling airflow that finally acts on the battery support mechanism 21 has the expected flow rate and temperature control potential.

[0069] The gas first flows through the first support 24 and absorbs heat from the battery, transforming into a higher-temperature gas. This heated gas is guided upward by the first airflow drive 2221 located above the first support 24. Subsequently, the gas changes direction through a circulating air duct and finally returns to the heat exchange device 221 at the bottom for cooling. The cooled gas is then immediately driven again by the second airflow drive 2222 located above the heat exchange device 221, resuming its flow towards the first support 24. Placing the second airflow drive 2222 between the first support 24 and the heat exchange device 221 is a key structural guarantee for realizing the airflow path, allowing the cooling and driving processes of the gas to be spatially connected.

[0070] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments, the second bracket 23 includes a first mounting cavity that extends vertically through the second bracket 23, and a first airflow drive member 2221 is located inside the first mounting cavity, with the outer peripheral surface of the first airflow drive member 2221 fitting against the inner wall of the first mounting cavity; the first bracket 24 includes a second mounting cavity that extends vertically through the first bracket 24, and a second airflow drive member 2222 is located inside the second mounting cavity, with the outer peripheral surface of the second airflow drive member 2222 fitting against the inner wall of the second mounting cavity.

[0071] It is understood that the first airflow drive component 2221 is not installed next to or below the second bracket 23 by means of an additional bracket or suspension, but is accommodated and embedded in the vertical channel, i.e., the first mounting cavity, formed by the body structure of the second bracket 23. This embedded installation achieves spatial integration between the first airflow drive component 2221 and the second bracket 23. The driving body of the first airflow drive component 2221 is housed within the physical contour of the second bracket 23, thereby eliminating the additional space required for the first airflow drive component 2221 to be installed independently outside the second bracket 23.

[0072] Similarly, the second airflow drive 2222 is integrated into the body of the first bracket 24, eliminating the need for a separate mounting platform or support frame on the upper or side surface of the first bracket 24. This close-fitting embedding allows the second airflow drive 2222 to integrate with the first bracket 24, which supports the first bracket 24 and the heat exchange device 221, into a more compact whole. The second airflow drive 2222's footprint on the external space of the first bracket 24 is minimized, which particularly helps reduce the overall thickness of the first bracket 24 module in the vertical direction.

[0073] Please see Figure 4 In some embodiments, the first airflow drive 2221 includes a plurality of first fans 22211, each of which is used to drive the gas to flow upward, and the plurality of first fans 22211 are arranged in an array along the horizontal direction in the first mounting cavity; and / or the second airflow drive 2222 includes a plurality of second fans, each of which is used to drive the gas to flow upward, and the plurality of second fans are arranged in an array along the horizontal direction in the second mounting cavity.

[0074] The horizontal array of multiple first fans 22211 within the first mounting cavity forms a distributed and uniform drive source in the upper region. Compared to using a single high-power first fan 22211, the array of multiple first fans 22211 can better cover the horizontal cross-sectional area of ​​the first mounting cavity, resulting in a more uniform and widespread horizontal distribution of the upward airflow driven through this area. This uniform drive method helps avoid areas of excessively high or low airflow velocity above the first support 24, thereby promoting the uniform and efficient extraction of gas that has flowed through the battery and heated up. This reduces the retention of hot air in localized areas, improves the uniformity of the ambient temperature above the battery, and creates more favorable airflow conditions for uniform heat dissipation of the battery.

[0075] Accordingly, the second airflow drive component 2222 adopts an embodiment including multiple second fans, each used to drive the gas upward, and the multiple second fans are arranged in a horizontal array within the second mounting cavity. This horizontal array arrangement of the multiple second fans within the second mounting cavity allows the cooling gas flowing from the heat exchange device 221 to be simultaneously and uniformly driven upward by multiple distribution points. This array-type drive mode ensures a more consistent flow velocity and air pressure distribution on the horizontal plane as the cooling airflow exits from the first support 24 and enters the battery area. This helps the cooling airflow to act evenly on each battery cell or battery module carried on the first support 24, preventing insufficient or excessive cooling of certain battery areas due to uneven airflow distribution, thereby improving the uniformity and accuracy of temperature control across the entire battery mounting surface.

[0076] Please see Figure 5 and Figure 6 , Figure 5 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the lithium battery testing equipment provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is the fourth schematic diagram of the structure of the lithium battery testing equipment provided in the embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the lithium battery testing equipment 100 further includes: a slide rail provided at the bottom of the first support 24, the slide rail extending along the width direction of the first support 24; and a guide block provided in the heat exchange device 221, the guide block being configured to slide in cooperation with the slide rail, the guide block being able to slide along the extension direction of the slide rail, so that the heat exchange device 221 slides within the receiving cavity along the width direction of the first support 24.

[0077] The bottom of the first support 24 is provided with a slide rail, which extends along the width of the first support 24, providing a pre-set, precisely guided moving track for the installation and adjustment of the heat exchange device. As a fixed guiding component, the extension direction of the slide rail clearly defines the only movable path of the heat exchange device relative to the first support 24 and the entire interior of the equipment, that is, horizontal movement along the width of the equipment.

[0078] The heat exchange device 221 is equipped with a guide block configured to slide in conjunction with a slide rail. The guide block slides along the extension direction of the slide rail, allowing the heat exchange device 221 to slide within the receiving cavity 1a along the width direction of the first support 24. This sliding engagement between the guide block and the slide rail enables a pull-out installation structure for the heat exchange device 221. During assembly, the operator can first assemble the heat exchange device 221 with the guide block outside the receiving cavity 1a, and then smoothly and steadily push the heat exchange device 221 into the predetermined working position by sliding the guide block along the slide rail. Compared to traditional hoisting or top-down installation, this push-in installation method is simpler and safer, especially suitable for the compact space inside the receiving cavity, reducing assembly difficulty and the required operating space.

[0079] When the heat exchanger 221 needs cleaning, inspection, or maintenance, operators do not need to disassemble the entire device or laboriously remove it from a confined space. They simply pull the heat exchanger 221 outwards; the sliding engagement of the slide rail and guide block allows it to be extracted from the housing cavity into an open external space for operation. This pull-out maintenance method shortens downtime, reduces the complexity and labor costs of maintenance work, and improves the maintainability and operational efficiency of the equipment.

[0080] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of gas flow provided in an embodiment of this application. In some embodiments, a guide gap 11 for gas flow is formed between the inner wall of the cabinet 1 and the side wall of the lithium battery testing equipment 100. The airflow drive component 222 is configured to drive the gas flow in the receiving cavity 1a, so that the gas flows through the guide gap 11 to the first support 24 and circulates in the receiving cavity 1a. A first gap 12 is provided between the first airflow drive component 2221 and the second airflow drive component 2222. A second gap 13 is provided between the first airflow drive component 2221 and the top surface of the cabinet 1, and a third gap 14 is provided between the heat exchange device 221 and the bottom surface of the cabinet 1. The first gap 12, the second gap 13, the guide gap 11 and the third gap 14 are connected in sequence to form a closed path for the gas to circulate in the receiving cavity 1a.

[0081] The airflow drive assembly 222 drives the gas to flow along a preset path. A key component of this circulation path is the guide gap 11 formed between the inner wall of the cabinet 1 and the side wall of the formation and dispensing device 2. This guide gap 11 is not an additional pipe, but a fluid channel formed by utilizing the existing natural gap between the inner wall of the cabinet 1 and the side wall of the formation and dispensing device 2. The airflow drive assembly 222 drives the gas, causing it to flow through this guide gap 11 to the area of ​​the first support 24, and finally completes the circulation within the receiving cavity 1a.

[0082] A first gap 12 exists between the first airflow drive member 2221 and the second airflow drive member 2222, forming a core upward channel for airflow in the vertical direction. The presence of the first gap 12 ensures that airflow can smoothly transition from the operating area of ​​the second airflow drive member 2222 to the operating area of ​​the first airflow drive member 2221.

[0083] There is a second gap 13 between the first airflow drive member 2221 and the top surface of the cabinet 1. When the airflow is driven by the first airflow drive member 2221 to approach the top of the cabinet 1, the second gap 13 allows the airflow to slow down and change direction at this point, smoothly changing from vertical upward flow to horizontal or inclined flow towards the side wall of the cabinet 1.

[0084] A third gap 14 exists between the heat exchange device 221 and the bottom surface of the cabinet 1. Gas descending from the guide gap 11 must pass through the third gap 14 after reaching the bottom of the cabinet 1 before re-entering the heat exchange device 221 for cooling. The third gap 14 provides the necessary flow cross-section and buffer space for the airflow entering the air inlet side of the heat exchange device 221, allowing the gas descending from the side to diffuse evenly and contact the heat exchange surface of the heat exchange device 221.

[0085] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended 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. Such 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.

Claims

1. A lithium battery testing apparatus, characterized by, The lithium battery testing equipment includes: The cabinet has a receiving cavity inside; A separation and dispensing device, wherein the separation and dispensing device is disposed within the receiving cavity, the separation and dispensing device comprising: A first support is disposed within the receiving cavity and configured to support the battery; The heat exchange mechanism includes a heat exchange device and an airflow drive assembly. The heat exchange device is vertically disposed below the first support and connected to the first support. The airflow drive assembly is located inside the receiving cavity.

2. The lithium battery testing device of claim 1, wherein, The airflow drive component includes: A first airflow actuator, located above the first bracket, is configured to drive gas within the receiving cavity to flow from the bottom to the top of the cabinet; and / or, A second airflow drive is located below and connected to the first bracket, and is configured to drive the gas in the receiving cavity to flow from the bottom of the cabinet to the top of the cabinet.

3. The lithium battery testing device of claim 2, wherein, The separation and capacity device further includes: A second support, configured to carry a probe assembly, is connected to the first airflow drive and is located above the first support. At least one of the second and first supports is configured to move vertically to change the distance between the second and first supports along the vertical direction, thereby bringing the probe assembly closer to or further away from the battery carried by the first support.

4. The lithium battery testing equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange device is configured to exchange heat with a gas via heat conduction to absorb heat from the gas, and the heat exchange device includes a cooling pipe configured to carry a cooling medium to dissipate heat from the heat exchange device.

5. The lithium battery testing equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The heat exchange device further includes a housing, and the cooling pipe is disposed inside the housing. The cooling pipe includes an inlet and an outlet, and the inlet and the outlet are both disposed on one side of the housing, which is parallel to the vertical direction.

6. The lithium battery testing device of claim 5, wherein, The heat exchange device also includes: A first flexible connecting pipe, the first end of which is connected to the water inlet, and the second end of which is connected to an external liquid supply device; The second flexible connecting pipe has a first end connected to the water outlet and a second end connected to the external liquid supply device. A fastener is disposed on the housing, and the fastener is configured to fix the first flexible connecting tube and the second flexible connecting tube.

7. The lithium battery testing device of claim 4, wherein, The lithium battery testing equipment also includes: A liquid receiving tray is provided below the first bracket, and the vertical projection of the end of the cooling pipe is located within the liquid receiving tray.

8. The lithium battery testing equipment according to any one of claims 2-7, characterized in that, The second airflow drive is located between the first support and the heat exchange device, and the second airflow drive is spaced apart from the heat exchange device, so that the gas in the receiving cavity flows through the first support and absorbs heat, then passes through the second airflow drive and the first airflow drive in sequence, and returns to the heat exchange device for heat exchange.

9. The lithium battery testing device of any one of claims 2-7, wherein, The lithium battery testing equipment also includes: The first bracket is provided with a slide rail at its bottom, and the slide rail extends along the width direction of the first bracket; The heat exchange device is provided with a guide block, which is configured to slide in conjunction with the slide rail. The guide block can slide along the extension direction of the slide rail so that the heat exchange device can slide within the receiving cavity along the width direction of the first support.

10. The lithium battery testing equipment according to any one of claims 2-7, characterized in that, The airflow drive assembly includes the first airflow drive component and the second airflow drive component; A flow guide gap is formed between the inner wall of the cabinet and the side wall of the lithium battery testing equipment, allowing gas to flow. The airflow drive component is configured to drive the gas flow in the receiving cavity so that the gas flows through the flow guide gap to the first support and circulates in the receiving cavity. There is a first gap between the first airflow drive component and the second airflow drive component; there is a second gap between the first airflow drive component and the top surface of the cabinet; and there is a third gap between the heat exchange device and the bottom surface of the cabinet. The first gap, the second gap, the flow guide gap, and the third gap are connected in sequence to form a closed path for the gas to circulate within the containment cavity.

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