Battery pack

Abstract

This invention discloses a battery pack. The battery pack includes a charging / discharging circuit, a battery pack housing, a high-voltage interface connector, a high-voltage switching circuit, and a battery management circuit, wherein the charging / discharging circuit has at least one battery cell assembly. The battery pack housing is formed by at least one vertically stacked tubular shell and two cover modules respectively covering opposite ends to form an insulating barrier that isolates the battery cell assembly from the outside. The tubular shell may be a liquid-limiting shell configured to contain a thermal management liquid for immersion cooling. The battery pack can utilize vertical wall channels within the housing to accommodate signal lines or conductive rods, thereby enabling a distributed electrical interface configuration or a single-terminal configuration. The structure facilitates modular assembly, efficient thermal management, and integrated electrical control.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention primarily relates to the integration of battery cells configured as a device capable of both storing and releasing electrical energy. Specifically, the invention relates to a machine assembled from battery cells, wherein all battery cells are immersed in a thermal management liquid during operation; and the control circuitry of the machine. Background Technology

[0002] Electricity is widely used to power modern machinery. At every stage of the electricity lifecycle, such as generation, distribution, and consumption, temporary storage and subsequent release of energy on demand are important and necessary.

[0003] A rechargeable battery cell is a device that stores electrical energy by converting it into chemical energy (during charging) and then converting it back into electrical energy (during discharging). Depending on the application, battery cells are integrated in various ways to meet the required electrical performance parameters.

[0004] The integration of battery cells, or in other words, battery cell assemblies, is considered a subsystem of electrical equipment. In this disclosure, the term "electrical equipment" can refer to electrically driven machinery, vehicles with an electric motor as a prime mover, energy storage systems electrically connected to a power grid or power plant, or computing machines (e.g., servers with information technology equipment, circuit boards, and / or integrated circuit elements configured to perform computational or information processing functions). Therefore, considering the integration between battery cell assemblies and electrical equipment is also quite important.

[0005] Furthermore, as is well known, integrating battery cells involves incorporating thermal management systems and battery management systems.

[0006] Based on the above design considerations, optimizing the integration of the battery cell with other functional components (such as control circuits) presents a significant challenge. Summary of the Invention

[0007] I. Problems to be solved:

[0008] Existing battery packs typically rely on complex external wiring harnesses to connect high-voltage switching components (contactors, fuses) and low-voltage control signals (battery management system, sensors) between different modules. These external paths increase assembly complexity, occupy valuable space, and expose sensitive signal lines to potential damage. Furthermore, effectively managing distributed high-voltage components (e.g., separating positive and negative terminals at opposite ends) while maintaining centralized control requires a robust and integrated interconnect strategy that avoids external wiring.

[0009] II. Technical means:

[0010] To address the aforementioned problems, the present invention provides a battery pack with an integrated housing and electrical architecture. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack includes a charging / discharging circuit, which includes at least one battery cell assembly, the battery cell assembly including a plurality of mechanically and electrically integrated battery cells. The battery pack housing accommodates the charging / discharging circuit. At least one high-voltage interface connector is disposed on the battery pack housing and is used to transmit high-voltage power between the battery pack and an external electrical device. A high-voltage switching circuit is disposed within the battery pack and is used to selectively open and close the high-voltage electrical connection between the charging / discharging circuit and the external electrical device. A battery management circuit is disposed within the battery pack and is used to control and drive the high-voltage switching circuit.

[0011] The battery pack casing is formed by at least one tubular housing and two cover modules. The at least one tubular housing is vertically stacked as a tube stack, and the two cover modules respectively cover opposite ends of the tube stack. This configuration provides an insulating barrier that isolates at least one battery cell assembly from the outside of the battery pack. The two cover modules include a first cover module and a second cover module.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, at least one tubular housing is implemented as a liquid-limiting housing, and the battery pack outer shell is used to become liquid-tight to define the battery pack space for containing the thermal management liquid. When the thermal management liquid is introduced into the battery pack space, the charging and discharging circuitry is immersed in the thermal management liquid.

[0013] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first cover module and the second cover module is configured as an interface module. The battery pack also includes at least one power interface module disposed on the at least one interface module, and the high-voltage switching circuit includes a positive contactor and a negative contactor, housed in the at least one power interface module.

[0014] In one embodiment, a first cover module is disposed at a first vertical end of the tube stack, and a second cover module is disposed at a second vertical end of the tube stack. Both the first and second cover modules are interface modules, wherein a first power interface module is disposed on the first cover module, and a second power interface module is disposed on the second cover module. The high-voltage switching circuit and the battery management circuit are functionally divided into a first circuit module and a second circuit module. The first circuit module is housed in the first power interface module and includes a positive contactor, a pre-charge contactor, a pre-charge resistor, and a high-voltage interlock circuit. The second circuit module is housed in the second power interface module and includes a negative contactor and a current shunt.

[0015] In this embodiment, each tubular housing includes a vertical wall channel, and signal lines are arranged within the vertical wall channel. The signal lines are electrically connected to the low-voltage circuits of the first circuit module and the second circuit module for control signal transmission. The charge / discharge circuit is electrically connected to the positive contactor and pre-charge contactor of the first circuit module, and electrically connected to the current shunt and negative contactor of the second circuit module.

[0016] In another embodiment of the invention, a first cover module is disposed at the first vertical end of the tube stack and serves as an interface module, while a second cover module is disposed at the second vertical end of the tube stack and serves as an end cover module. In this configuration, the high-voltage switching circuit includes a positive contactor, a pre-charge contactor, a pre-charge resistor, a high-voltage interlock circuit, a negative contactor, and a current shunt, all housed within the energy interface module. Each tubular housing includes a vertical wall channel in which signal lines are arranged to electrically connect to the low-voltage circuit of the high-voltage switching circuit. The charging and discharging circuit is electrically connected to the positive contactor, the pre-charge contactor, and the current shunt housed within the energy interface module.

[0017] According to an additional embodiment, the vertical wall channels of the tubular housing are aligned to form continuous vertical through-holes that penetrate the tube stack. Conductive rods are housed within these continuous vertical through-holes and are used to electrically connect the electrodes of a charge / discharge circuit disposed at a second vertical end to a power interface module disposed at a first vertical end, thereby providing a compact vertical bus structure for high-voltage power paths.

[0018] In another embodiment of the invention, each battery cell assembly includes a battery monitoring circuit disposed within a tubular housing. The battery monitoring circuit includes a vertical interface connector disposed at the vertical end of the tubular housing. The vertical interface connector is used to electrically connect the battery monitoring circuit to a battery management circuit housed in a power interface module to transmit the status of multiple battery cells, such as voltage, temperature, and other monitoring data.

[0019] According to a further embodiment, the battery pack also includes a seal arranged at the interface between two adjacent stacked tubular housings or at the interface between a tubular housing and one of the two cover modules. At least one of the tubular housings or cover modules includes a seal-receiving structure for receiving and positioning the seal to seal the battery pack space, thereby supporting immersion cooling while maintaining liquid tightness integrity.

[0020] In a further embodiment of the invention, the battery management circuit is housed within a first power interface module. The tubular housing includes a vertical wall channel with signal lines disposed therein, electrically connecting the first power interface module and a second power interface module. The battery management circuit is used to transmit control signals to the second power interface module via the signal lines to control the open or closed state of the negative contactor. This allows for centralized control at one end of the battery pack while permitting the distribution of high-voltage switching and measuring elements at multiple locations.

[0021] These and other embodiments of the present invention provide a modular, immersion-capable battery pack architecture in which mechanical structures, sealing designs, high-voltage switching, current sensing, battery cell monitoring, and control signal paths are integrated into a tube stack and cover module configuration, thereby improving the packaging efficiency, safety, and reliability of high-voltage energy storage systems.

[0022] These and other objects of the invention will undoubtedly become apparent to those skilled in the art after reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, which include various figures and illustrations. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1A To illustrate the conceptual circuit diagram of the charging and discharging circuit (0040), the charging and discharging circuit includes a battery cell assembly (0010), a battery cell (0020), and a battery cell array (0030).

[0024] Figure 1B This is a system functional block circuit diagram of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2A and Figure 2B A perspective view of an embodiment of the battery cell assembly (0010); Figure 2B This is an exploded view showing the battery holder (0050), the battery housing structure (0060), and the electrode surface (0024).

[0026] Figure 2C An exploded perspective view of the battery cell assembly (0010) shows the battery connection component (0026) and the battery holder (0050).

[0027] Figure 2D The detailed view shows the plate hole (0029) of the battery connecting member (0026) engaging with the vertical limiting structure (0070) of the battery holder (0050).

[0028] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is a conceptual 3D diagram showing two battery cell assemblies (0010) arranged in a stacked configuration. Figure 3A ) and side-by-side configuration ( Figure 3B ).

[0029] Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C This is a top view of a tubular liquid-limiting housing (0080) with a peripheral wall (0090).

[0030] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A perspective view of the battery cell assembly (0010) arranged within the liquid-limiting housing (0080); Figure 5B The exploded view shows the top opening (0094), the bottom opening (0095), and the two battery holders (0050).

[0031] Figure 6A The top view of the rectangular liquid-limiting shell (0080) has side walls (0091) designated as east wall (0096), south wall (0097), west wall (0098) and north wall (0099).

[0032] Figure 6B The view of the liquid-limiting housing (0080) shows the inner wall surface (0101), the outer wall surface (0106), the inner corner (0120), the outer corner (0125), the corner pillar (0130), and the side wall (0091).

[0033] Figure 6C Figure 6D is a view of the peripheral wall (0090) assembled from two parts surrounding the wall. Figure 6D is a view of the peripheral wall (0090) assembled from four independent side walls (0091).

[0034] Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7C The top view of the liquid-limiting housing (0080) shows the battery holder stop structure (0140) extending inward from the inner surface of the peripheral wall (0090) and the inner boundary (0141). Figure 7C Includes a battery cell assembly (0010) having a battery holder (0050) and a cross-section line A-A'.

[0035] Figure 7D For along Figure 7C The vertical cross-sectional view taken at A-A' shows the relative positions of the peripheral wall (0090), the battery holder stop structure (0140), and the spaces above and below the stop structure.

[0036] Figure 7E A view of the liquid-limiting housing (0080) showing the discrete battery holder stop structure (0140) on the inner north wall (0105) of the north wall (0099).

[0037] Figure 8A, Figure 8B and Figure 8C A battery holder fixing structure (0150) is shown inside the liquid-limiting housing (0080). Figure 8A The top view shows the fixing structure (0150) with fastener holes (0151). Figure 8B The top view shows the battery holder (0050) with a fastener (0152). Figure 8C The cross-sectional view along B-B' shows the battery holder (0050), the stop structure (0140), and the fastener (0152).

[0038] Figure 9A and Figure 9B A perspective view showing two stacked battery cell assemblies (0010).

[0039] Figure 10A This is a view of the liquid-limiting housing (0080), showing the top wall surface (0160), the bottom wall surface (0170), the top interlocking structure (0180), and the bottom interlocking structure (0190).

[0040] Figure 10B A view of two liquid-limiting housings (0080) stacked and interlocked (0180, 0190) engaged.

[0041] Figure 11A and Figure 11B A sealing feature is shown at the interface between the liquid-limiting housings (0080); Figure 11A Show the sealing element receiving structure (0220) and the sealing element positioning structure (0210); Figure 11B Display seals (0200), such as O-rings, are provided in the receiving structure.

[0042] Figure 12A A printed circuit board with a battery monitoring device (0260) associated with a battery connection member (0026) is provided to display a view of the vertical wall channel (0230).

[0043] Figure 12B A view showing the vertical wall channel (0230) with a conductive rod (0280).

[0044] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack (3030), which includes the battery module (3010), end cap module (3040), interface module (3050), and interface.

[0045] Figure 14A and Figure 14B A conceptual diagram of the battery pack architecture: Figure 14AMultiple battery modules (3010) are stacked between a first interface module (3050a) and a second interface module (3050b), wherein the power interface modules (3060a, 3060b) and the high-voltage interface connector (3063) are located at opposite vertical ends. Figure 14B The display battery module is located between the end cap module (3040) and the interface module (3050), wherein the power interface module (3060) and two high-voltage interface connectors (3063) are located on the same vertical end, and the vertical wall channel (0230) is sealed to form a vertical through hole with a conductive rod (0280).

[0046] Figure 15A and Figure 15B A conceptual diagram illustrating the direction relative to the gravity vector.

[0047] Figure 16A A conceptual side view of the battery pack, illustrating the flow field and stacking architecture.

[0048] Figure 16B A conceptual diagram illustrating the detailed configuration of the battery module.

[0049] Figure 17 This is a conceptual schematic diagram of the physical configuration of a battery pack (3030) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 18A A perspective view of a battery pack (3030) is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure.

[0051] Figure 18B Based on the exemplary embodiments illustrated in this disclosure Figure 18A The electronic connection structure of the battery monitoring circuit (3110 and 3120) shown.

[0052] Figure 19 Based on the exemplary embodiments illustrated in this disclosure Figure 18A and Figure 18B The circuit diagram of the battery cell (0020), battery monitoring circuit (3110) and battery sensing circuit (3111) shown is shown.

[0053] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0054] 0010: Battery cell assembly

[0055] 0020: Battery Unit

[0056] 0024: Electrode surface

[0057] 0025: Fuse Structure

[0058] 0026, 0026(a), 0026(b), 0026(c), 0026(d): Battery connection components

[0059] 0027: Battery contact plate

[0060] 0028: Current transmission board

[0061] 0029: Plate Hole

[0062] 0030: Battery cell series

[0063] 0040: Charging and discharging circuit

[0064] 0050: Battery holder

[0065] 0051: Battery cell area

[0066] 0052: Edge Zone

[0067] 0060: Battery housing structure

[0068] 0070: Vertical limiting structure

[0069] 0080: Liquid-limiting shell

[0070] 0081: Liquid flow in the liquid-limiting shell

[0071] 0090: Surrounding walls

[0072] 0091: Sidewall

[0073] 0092: Vertical position at the top

[0074] 0093: Vertical position at the bottom

[0075] 0094: Top opening

[0076] 0095: Bottom opening

[0077] 0096: East Wall

[0078] 0097: South wall

[0079] 0098: West wall

[0080] 0099: North wall

[0081] 0101: Inner wall surface

[0082] 0102: Inner east wall

[0083] 0103: Inner south wall

[0084] 0104: Inner west wall

[0085] 0105: Inner north wall

[0086] 0106: Outer wall surface

[0087] 0107: Outer east wall

[0088] 0108: Outer south wall

[0089] 0109: Outer west wall

[0090] 0110: Outer north wall

[0091] 0120: Inner corner

[0092] 0121: Inner Northeast Corner

[0093] 0122: Inner Southeast Corner

[0094] 0123: Inner Southwest Corner

[0095] 0124: Inner Northwest Corner

[0096] 0125: Outside corner

[0097] 0126: Outer Northeast Corner

[0098] 0127: Outer Southeast Corner

[0099] 0128: Outer Southwest Corner

[0100] 0129: Outer Northwest Corner

[0101] 0130: Corner post

[0102] 0140: Battery holder stop structure

[0103] 0141: Inner Boundary

[0104] 0150: Battery holder fixing structure

[0105] 0151: Fastener hole

[0106] 0152: Fasteners

[0107] 0160: Top wall surface

[0108] 0170: Bottom wall surface

[0109] 0180: Top surface interlocking structure

[0110] 0190: Bottom interlocking structure

[0111] 0200: Seals

[0112] 0210: Sealing element positioning structure

[0113] 0220: Sealing element housing structure

[0114] 0230: Vertical Wall Passage

[0115] 0260: Battery monitoring device

[0116] 0271: Positive electrode

[0117] 0272: Negative electrode

[0118] 0280: Conductive rod

[0119] 300: Battery Management Circuit

[0120] 301: Power Supply

[0121] 302: Pump

[0122] 303: Pulse Width Modulation Control

[0123] 304: Energy source or energy consumption end

[0124] 305, 3110, 3120: Battery monitoring circuit

[0125] 306: High-voltage interlock circuit

[0126] 307: Positive contactor

[0127] 308: Fuse

[0128] 309: Precharge contactor

[0129] 310: Pre-charge resistor

[0130] 311: Current Shunt

[0131] 312: Negative contactor

[0132] 3001: First Circuit Module

[0133] 3002: Second Circuit Module

[0134] 3010: Battery Module

[0135] 3011: Battery Module Area

[0136] 3012: Module Interface Reference Lines

[0137] 3020: Modular Power Interface

[0138] 3030: Battery Pack

[0139] 3031: Battery pack casing

[0140] 3032: Battery Pack Space

[0141] 3034: Liquid Connectivity Interface

[0142] 3034(a): First liquid interface

[0143] 3034(b): Second liquid interface

[0144] 3040: End Cap Module

[0145] 3050: Interface Module

[0146] 3050(a): First interface module

[0147] 3050(b): Second Interface Module

[0148] 3051: Interface module electrical channel

[0149] 3052: Interface module shell

[0150] 3053: Interface Module Electrical Connector

[0151] 3054: Interface Module Space

[0152] 3060: Power Interface Module

[0153] 3060(a): First power interface module

[0154] 3060(b): Second power interface module

[0155] 3061: Power Interface Module Space

[0156] 3062: Housing for power interface module

[0157] 3063, 3063(a), 3063(b): High-voltage interface connectors

[0158] 3065: Wall surface of power interface module

[0159] 3080: Circulation and Heat Exchange System

[0160] 3081: Liquid circulation pipe

[0161] 3082: Pump outlet

[0162] 3090, 3090(a), 3090(b): Cover module

[0163] 3091: Interface Liquid Connector

[0164] 3092: Cover vertical channel

[0165] 3093: Cover module area

[0166] 3094: Inner cover surface

[0167] 3111, 3121: Battery sensing circuit

[0168] 3130: Switch

[0169] 3140: Heating module

[0170] 3141: Temperature sensor

[0171] 3150: Electrical safety devices

[0172] 3160: Vertical Stacking Connector

[0173] 3162: Vertical Interface Connector

[0174] 3163: Printed Circuit Board - Flexible Printed Circuit Board Interface Detailed Implementation

[0175] Before further describing this disclosure, it should be noted that, where appropriate, reference numerals used repeatedly in the figures refer to corresponding or similar elements that may selectively have similar features.

[0176] To aid in the description of this disclosure, directional terms may be used in the specification and claims to describe portions of this disclosure (e.g., front, back, left, right, top, bottom, etc.). Unless specifically defined, these directional definitions are intended only to aid in the description and assertion of this disclosure and are not intended to limit this disclosure in any way.

[0177] The following contains specific information relating to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. The drawings and accompanying detailed disclosure provide only exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. However, this disclosure is not limited to these exemplary embodiments. Other variations and embodiments of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Unless otherwise stated, the same or corresponding elements in the drawings may be indicated by the same or corresponding reference numerals. Furthermore, the drawings and illustrations in this disclosure are generally not drawn to scale and are not intended to correspond to actual relative dimensions.

[0178] For consistency and ease of understanding, the same features are identified by numbers in the example diagrams (although not shown in some examples). However, features may differ in other respects in different implementations, and should not be narrowly limited to what is shown in the diagrams.

[0179] The use of terms such as "an embodiment," "an embodiment," "an exemplary embodiment," "various embodiments," "some embodiments," and "an embodiment of this disclosure" indicates that an embodiment of this disclosure may include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every possible embodiment of this disclosure necessarily includes that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, the repeated use of the terms "in an embodiment," "in an exemplary embodiment," or "an embodiment" does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although they may refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, any use of the phrase "this disclosure" paired with "an embodiment" is not intended to imply that all embodiments of this disclosure must include the stated specific feature, structure, or characteristic, but should be understood as meaning that "at least some embodiments of this disclosure" include the stated specific feature, structure, or characteristic. The term "coupled" is defined as a connection, whether direct or indirect through intermediate components, and is not necessarily limited to a physical connection. The term "comprising," when used, means "including but not necessarily limited to"; it specifically indicates open inclusion or membership in the disclosed combinations, groups, series, and equivalents.

[0180] Furthermore, for the purpose of non-limiting interpretation, specific details, such as functional entities, technologies, protocols, standards, etc., are described to provide an understanding of the disclosed technologies. In other examples, detailed disclosures of well-known methods, technologies, systems, architectures, etc., are omitted to avoid obscuring this disclosure with unnecessary details.

[0181] Figure 1A This is a conceptual circuit diagram of the charging-discharging circuit (hereinafter referred to as CDC) 0040. Figure 1A In this circuit, the charging and discharging circuit includes a "Battery Cell Assembly (BCA)" 0010. The BCA 0010 is configured to meet required electrical performance, such as a desired target output voltage, amperes, or power. To meet such requirements, battery cells can be integrated, for example, assembled, mechanically and electrically, into the BCA 0010 to provide collective performance.

[0182] like Figure 1AAs shown, in some embodiments, BCA 0010 may include one or more Battery Cell Strings (hereinafter referred to as BCS) 0030, which are electrically connected in parallel. The number of BCS 0030s connected in parallel will determine the overall current output of BCA0010. Furthermore, each of the BCS 0030s may include one or more Battery Cells (hereinafter referred to as BC) 0020, which are electrically connected in series. The number of BC 0020s connected in series in each of the BCS 0030s will determine the overall voltage output of both BCS 0030 and BCA 0010.

[0183] The charging / discharging circuit 0040 can be connected to an energy source, such as a charging station, to charge BCA 0010. The charging / discharging circuit can also be connected to an energy-consuming end, such as the prime mover of an electric vehicle, to supply power to the prime mover.

[0184] In some embodiments (not in) Figure 1A (As shown), the charging / discharging circuit 0040 may include more than one BCA 0010 to meet specific design considerations, such as design considerations for the manufacturing and / or assembly process of the charging / discharging circuit 0040 itself, or design considerations for the assembly of the charging / discharging circuit 0040 and electrical equipment.

[0185] Refer to the return Figure 1A Depending on the technology used, BC 0020 may have different specifications in terms of, for example, shape, electrical performance (e.g., output voltage, current, power, charging rate, discharging rate, or operating temperature), materials, and other characteristics. For example, BC 0020 may be packaged in various forms, such as cylindrical, prismatic, or pouch-like. In this disclosure, unless specifically specified, those skilled in the art will understand that the technical features disclosed herein are not necessarily limited to a particular type of BC0020.

[0186] In order to be configured as a basic component for transferring electrical energy to chemical energy (or vice versa), BC 0020 may include a positive electrode and a negative electrode as an interface between: (A) the charge / discharge circuit 0040 to which BC 0020 is connected; and (B) the cathode material and anode material encapsulated in BC 0020.

[0187] Furthermore, BC 0020, configured as the basic energy storage building block of BCA 0010 and charging / discharging circuit 0040, must be electrically connected. Regardless of whether BC 0020 is cylindrical, prismatic, or bag-shaped, the electrodes of BC 0020 are typically disposed at the top, bottom, or both ends of the BC 0020 body. In such cases, BC 0020 are typically mechanically aligned side-by-side, so that the electrodes of each of BC 0020 can be approximately aligned on the same plane. Therefore, the body of BCA 0010 may contain at least one electrode surface 0024, in which the electrodes of BC 0020 are located and distributed.

[0188] In some embodiments, BCA 0010 may include a Battery-Cell-Connecting Member (hereinafter referred to as BCCM) 0026, which is an electrical conductor configured to connect to the electrodes of BC 0020. BC0020 is electrically connected in parallel or series via BCCM 0026. For example, planar conductor plates may be arranged on electrode surfaces 0024 to connect the electrodes of BC0020.

[0189] In this disclosure, the term "Battery Pack (hereinafter referred to as BP)" 3030 refers to an assembled, manufactured, and packaged energy storage system designed for integration into electrical devices (such as electric vehicles (hereinafter referred to as EVs), battery energy storage systems (hereinafter referred to as BESSs), or others) that will be powered by electrical energy discharged from the BP 3030. It is typically manufactured as a unique product, usually by an entity that supplies the final equipment to the original equipment manufacturer (hereinafter referred to as OEM). The BP 3030 is mechanically stable to ensure its integrity during transport and final installation. For example, the integration and assembly process may be the same as that used for EVs. Furthermore, the BP 3030 is equipped with standardized interfaces to facilitate electrical and mechanical integration with the larger system in which it is installed. The spatial dimensions of the BP 3030 are also designed with the available space for the underlying electrical equipment in mind.

[0190] Figure 1B This is a system functional block diagram of BP 3030 according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 1B As shown, the thick solid line represents the high-voltage circuit of the BP 3030, the thin dashed line represents the communication path of the low-voltage control signal or sensing signal, and the thin solid line represents the low-voltage power supply path. Figure 1BAs depicted, BP 3030 includes a charge-discharge circuit (CDC) 0040 consisting of at least one battery cell assembly (BCA) 0010, and other functional blocks configured to control or manage CDC 0040, such as battery management circuit 300.

[0191] In some embodiments, BP may be electrically connected to power supply 301. Power supply 301 is configured to provide operating power to battery management circuitry 300. In one embodiment, power supply 301 is an external power source independent of the battery pack (e.g., a 12V power supply from the vehicle). For example, power supply 301 may provide operating power to battery management circuitry 300 via a connector (e.g., a 32-pin connector). Furthermore, power supply 301 also provides operating power to pump 302 and pulse-width modulation (PWM) control 303 via a low-voltage power supply path.

[0192] The battery management circuit 300 is configured to control the high-voltage switching circuit. In one embodiment, the battery management circuit 300 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) with an integrated circuit (IC) configured as the computing core, referred to as a battery management unit (BMU). The BMU is typically a microcontroller with computing and memory functions. In addition to the BMU, the PCB of the battery management circuit 300 may also include communication circuits, voltage and current sensing circuits, power-related circuits, drive-related circuits (e.g., relays for driving contactors), or other functional circuits. The battery management circuit 300 can internally receive signals from the CDC 0040, the battery monitoring circuit 305, and the high-voltage switching circuit. The battery management circuit 300 can externally receive signals from the power source 301 and the energy source or energy consumption terminal 304. Based on the calculation results, the battery management circuit 300 internally transmits control signals to control the operation of the battery monitoring circuit 305 and the high-voltage switching circuit, and externally transmits and / or receives signals to the energy source or energy consumption terminal 304.

[0193] Battery monitoring circuit 305 can be configured to detect operating status at the BCA 0010 level or at the battery cell level. For example, battery monitoring circuit 305 monitors parameters of the target object such as temperature, voltage, and current, performs open / short circuit diagnostics, and compiles health information (e.g., the measurement basis required for State of Charge (SoC) / State of Health (SOH)) to be transmitted back to battery management circuit 300. In one embodiment, battery monitoring circuit 305 includes one or more PCBs located near the battery cells, and the PCBs include a battery monitoring IC or analog front-end (AFE) configured as the measurement core. The battery monitoring IC or AFE is also referred to as a cell monitoring unit (CMU). Battery monitoring circuit 305 may also include necessary communication circuitry, isolated power supply circuitry, and protection circuitry. Battery monitoring circuit 305 can be internally directly connected to each BCA 0010. Battery monitoring circuit 305 can be externally interconnected to battery management circuit 300 via isolated communication to return measurement / diagnostic data and receive measurement setting and balancing commands. The power for the battery monitoring circuit 305 can be supplied by the battery management circuit 300 or a separate isolated power supply. Regarding the control path, the battery monitoring circuit 305 schedules measurements and balancing based on the strategy of the battery management circuit 300. When overvoltage, undervoltage, open circuit, or sensing anomalies are detected, the battery monitoring circuit 305 immediately reports the anomaly and can partially halt protective actions such as balancing.

[0194] Pump 302 can be configured to drive the flow of thermal management fluid within the battery pack to regulate the temperature of BCA 0010. In one embodiment, pump 302 is an electric pump powered by power supply 301 through a low-voltage (e.g., 12V) power supply path. Pump 302 can be hydraulically connected to the fluid circulation loop of the battery pack. For example, pump 302 can be positioned at the inlet or outlet of the fluid-limiting housing of BCA 0010 to circulate the thermal management fluid through the battery cells. The operation of pump 302, such as its startup timing or flow rate, is controlled by PWM control 303.

[0195] A PWM controller 303 can be configured to generate a pulse width modulation signal to drive the pump 302. The PWM controller 303 can be electrically connected to a power supply 301 to receive operating power and signal-connected to a battery management circuit 300 to receive control signals. Based on the control signal from the battery management circuit 300 (e.g., based on a temperature reading returned by the battery monitoring circuit 305), the PWM controller 303 modulates the duty cycle of the pulse width modulation signal. By adjusting the duty cycle, the rotational speed of the pump 302 is linearly or dynamically adjusted, thereby controlling the flow rate of the thermal management fluid to achieve precise thermal management.

[0196] The high-voltage switching circuit may include contactor (positive) 307, contactor (pre-charge) 309, resistor (pre-charge) 310, contactor (negative) 312, current shunt 311, fuse 308 and high-voltage interlock loop (hereinafter referred to as HVIL) 306.

[0197] Contactor (positive) 307 can be considered as a switch used to determine whether the positive terminal of CDC 0040 is electrically connected to an external circuit. In one embodiment, contactor (positive) 307 comprises a commercially available contactor element, which is a high-voltage switch that can be controlled to open / close by a small current. Regarding high-voltage circuit connections, contactor (positive) 307 can be internally connected to the positive terminal of CDC 0040 and externally sequentially connected to fuse 308 (optional), then to the positive terminal of a battery system (e.g., a battery pack) (e.g., a High-Voltage Interface Connector (HVIC) 3063), and then indirectly connected to an energy source or energy consumption terminal 304. Regarding low-voltage circuit connections, contactor (positive) 307 can be connected to battery management circuitry 300 to receive control signals and return to an operating state.

[0198] Contactor (precharge) 309 can be considered as a switch used to determine whether the positive terminal of CDC 0040 is electrically connected to an external circuit. PRE stands for precharge. In one embodiment, contactor (precharge) 309 comprises a commercially available contactor element. During precharge, CDC 0040 releases electrical energy to energy consumption terminal 304 with a small current. The precharge step is necessary. Especially when there is a large voltage difference between the entire CDC 0040 and energy consumption terminal 304, directly discharging to energy consumption terminal 304 using contactor (positive) 307 may generate a large inrush current, which may damage the circuitry of energy consumption terminal 304. Regarding high-voltage circuit connections, contactor (precharge) 309 may be internally connected to the positive terminal of CDC 0040 and externally sequentially connected to resistor (precharge) 310, then to fuse 308 (optional), then to the positive terminal of the battery pack (e.g., HVIC 3063), and then indirectly connected to the energy source or energy consumption terminal 304. Regarding low-voltage circuit connections, contactor (precharge) 309 can be connected to battery management circuit 300 to receive control signals and return to operating status.

[0199] Fuse 308 provides overcurrent protection. In the event of an excessive current, fuse 308 may blow to disconnect contactor (positive) 307 from downstream energy source or consumer 304. In some embodiments, fuse 308 is integrated into a Manual Service Disconnect (MSD) assembly. For high-voltage circuit connections, fuse 308 may be internally connected to contactor (positive) 307 or resistor (pre-charge) 310. Fuse 308 is first externally connected to the positive terminal of the battery pack (e.g., HVIC 3063), and then indirectly connected to energy source or consumer 304. For low-voltage circuit connections, fuse 308 may be internally connected to HVIL 306, with its loop returning to battery management circuitry 300.

[0200] HVIL 306 can be a low-voltage signal loop (for logic / monitoring) configured to signal to various high-voltage interfaces that may be exposed to high voltage (high potential energy) or may be in an unintended open state, such as those located at MSDs, service cover switches, high-voltage connectors, contactor box covers, charging ports, etc. The BMU continuously monitors HVIL 306. If HVIL 306 is open or has an abnormal resistance value, the system can request to disconnect the main contactors (e.g., contactor (positive) 307 and contactor (negative) 312) and disable energization. Regarding low-voltage circuit connections, HVIL 306 can be connected to fuse 308 / MSD and HVIC 3063 for detection, and the detected signal is sent back to the battery management circuit 300.

[0201] Contactor (negative terminal) 312 can be considered as a switch used to determine whether the negative terminal of CDC 0040 is electrically connected to an external circuit. In one embodiment, contactor (negative terminal) 312 may comprise a commercially available contactor assembly. For high-voltage circuit connections, contactor (negative terminal) 312 may be internally connected sequentially to current shunt 311, and then to the negative terminal of CDC 0040. Contactor (negative terminal) 312 may be externally connected to the negative terminal of a battery pack (e.g., HVIC 3063), and then indirectly connected to an energy source or energy consumer 304. For low-voltage circuit connections, contactor (negative terminal) 312 may be connected to battery management circuitry 300 to receive control signals and report operating status.

[0202] The current shunt 311 can be configured to measure a high-voltage current value and provide that value to the battery management circuit 300 for calculation and control. The current shunt 311 may include a resistor with low resistance and high accuracy and can be configured to convert current into voltage for measurement. The battery management system (BMS) or current sensing amplifier reads the load voltage to calculate the current flowing through it. Regarding high-voltage circuit connections, the current shunt 311 can be positioned before or after the contactor, and is typically positioned at one end of the contactor (negative terminal) 312. Figure 1B For example, the current shunt 311 can be positioned between the contactor (negative terminal) 312 and the CDC 0040. Regarding low-voltage circuit connections, the current shunt 311 can provide measurement signals to the battery management circuit 300 for calculation and control.

[0203] In this disclosure, when referring to direction, the terms "lateral" and "laterally" refer to the direction on the plane in which the electrodes of BCA 0010 and BC 0020 are arranged, and to the direction of a straight line parallel to the plane in which BCA 0010 and BC 0020 are arranged side by side. In the drawings of this disclosure, the lateral direction is marked as the direction of a straight line parallel to the yz plane. The term "top view" means a cross-section viewed from the positive x direction toward the negative x direction.

[0204] In this disclosure, the terms "vertical" and "perpendicularly" refer to a direction that is not a "lateral direction" and is orthogonal to "any lateral direction". According to this definition, the electrodes of BC 0020 are typically disposed at at least one vertical end of the BC 0020 body. In the figures of this disclosure, the vertical direction refers to the direction along the x-direction.

[0205] For example, please see Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a perspective view of an embodiment of BCA 0010 (not depicting all components of BCA 0010); in which Figure 2B yes Figure 2A An exploded view. Figure 2A and Figure 2B In this design, the body of BC 0020 can extend vertically (along the x-direction). Furthermore, the top and bottom axes of BC 0020 are parallel to the x-direction; and BC 0020 is aligned side-by-side along the yz plane.

[0206] To mechanically or structurally integrate BC 0020, in some embodiments, BCA 0010 may include at least one battery holder 0050, whose primary function is to restrict the position of each BC 0020 in a particular configuration. For example, restricting the position of BC 0020 may be: 1. restricting the relative position of a particular BC 0020 with respect to any other BC 0020 belonging to the same BCA 0010 as that particular BC 0020; and 2. restricting the relative position of a particular BC 0020 with respect to the body of BCA 0010. For example, in Figure 2A In this configuration, a portion of each BC 0020 body is disposed within a corresponding battery housing structure 0060 of the battery holder 0050. The battery housing structures 0060 are periodically distributed laterally. Therefore, once the BC 0020s are disposed within the battery housing structures 0060, these BC 0020s can be arranged in this periodic spatial distribution laterally.

[0207] In some embodiments, the battery holder 0050 may include a vertical limiting structure 0070 to restrict vertical movement of BC 0020. The bodies and electrodes of all BC 0020 of BCA 0010 may be aligned in the same vertical position, thus forming the electrode surface 0024 of BCA 0010. For example, in Figure 2A In the middle, BCA 0010 contains two electrode surfaces 0024 on both sides in the x direction.

[0208] In some embodiments, adhesives may be used to provide displacement restraint. For example, after BC 0020 is placed in the support hole of the battery holder 0050, glue may be introduced to further secure BC 0020.

[0209] In some embodiments, for electrical integration of BC 0020, BCA 0010 may include BCCM 0026 located on electrode surface 0024. Furthermore, BCA 0010 may include mechanical components configured to maintain a stationary relative position between electrode surface 0024 and BCCM 0026. For example, since BC 0020 is mechanically fixed to battery holder 0050, BCCM 0026 may be mechanically connected to battery holder 0050.

[0210] For example, in Figure 2C The image shows an exploded perspective view of an exemplary BCA 0010 (BC and some components are not shown). BCA0010 includes a battery holder 0050 and a BCCM 0026. BCCM 0026 is a plate-shaped conductive material. BCCM 0026 is configured to be disposed on the battery holder 0050 and also on the electrode surface 0024 of BCA 0010.

[0211] In some embodiments, BCCM 0026 may include a battery contact plate 0027 and a current transmission plate 0028.

[0212] The battery contact plate 0027 can be configured to directly contact the electrode of BC. Connection processes such as welding, crimping, fastening, or using conductive adhesive can be used to connect the battery contact plate 0027 and the electrode of BC. Furthermore, in some cases, the battery contact plate 0027 may include a fusible structure 0025 configured to melt in the event of a current overload.

[0213] The current transmission plate 0028 can be configured to transmit the combined current of multiple BCs 0020. For this purpose, the thickness of the current transmission plate 0028 can be greater than that of the battery contact plate 0027. Furthermore, the conductivity of the current transmission plate 0028 can be higher than that of the battery contact plate 0027. For example, the battery contact plate 0027 can be a nickel plate, while the current transmission plate 0028 can be a copper plate.

[0214] In some embodiments, BCCM 0026 may include structures configured for arranging BCCM 0026 on battery holder 0050. For example, BCCM 0026 may include an extrusion or protrusion configured to engage with a hollow structure on battery holder 0050. As another example, BCCM 0026 may include a hole configured to engage with an extrusion or protrusion on battery holder 0050. For example, in Figure 2C and Figure 2D In this embodiment, BCCM 0026 includes a plate hole 0029 that engages with a vertical limiting structure 0070 of the battery holder 0050. The vertical limiting structure 0070 passes through the plate hole 0029 of BCCM 0026 to restrict relative movement of BCCM 0026 relative to the battery holder 0050. For example, lateral and vertical relative movement of BCCM 0026 relative to the battery holder 0050 may be restricted. In various embodiments, the mechanical engagement may be achieved through interference fits, snap-fit ​​fits, fasteners, or geometrically interlocking features (such as the hole-post arrangement described herein).

[0215] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This is a conceptual perspective view of two BCA 0010 units integrated together. Depending on the available space for installing the BCA 0010 on the electrical equipment, the BCA 0010s can be integrated in a stacked or side-by-side manner. For example, in... Figure 3A In this configuration, BCA 0010 is integrated in a stacked manner, which is suitable for placement in narrow spaces, such as the front and rear compartments of a passenger car. In another example, in... Figure 3B In the middle, BCA 0010 is integrated in a side-by-side manner, which is suitable for placement in spaces with sufficient width but limited height, such as the floor space under the passenger compartment of a small car.

[0216] In this disclosure, the terms "vertical" and "vertically" also refer to the stacking orientation of stacked integrated BCAs. For example, in Figure 3A In this case, stacked integrated BCAs are stacked along the vertical direction (i.e., the x-direction).

[0217] To prevent thermal runaway events, the operating temperatures of BCA 0010 and BC 0020, or both, are maintained. It is known to bring BC 0020 into direct contact with the thermal management fluid so that the fluid can transfer heat, thereby maintaining the operating temperature of BC 0020 within a predetermined range or preventing combustion reactions. For example, BCA 0010 or BC 0020 can be partially or completely immersed in the thermal management fluid. With BCA 0010 fully immersed, BCA 0010 and other components intended to be integrated with it can directly contact the thermal management fluid, thus providing better thermal management performance.

[0218] To immerse BCA 0010 in the thermal management fluid, BCA 0010 may be integrated with a liquid-limiting housing 0080 (hereinafter referred to as LLC). LLC 0080 may be configured to restrict the movement of the thermal management fluid. For example, in a space described by Cartesian coordinates, a given volume of thermal management fluid may have displacement or velocity, which may be described by a vector consisting of components comprising unit vectors multiplied by coefficients in the x, y, or z directions. LLC 0080 may include means for restricting the movement of the thermal management fluid in at least some of these six directions to maintain the relative position between BCA 0010 and the thermal management fluid while BCA 0010 is immersed in the thermal management fluid.

[0219] In some embodiments, impermeable materials may be used to form structures that completely encapsulate or partially cover the thermal management fluid, thereby restricting the movement of the thermal management fluid in all or a particular direction. For example, LLC 0080 may be formed as a tubular shape with two openings, such as a triangular, square, or circular tube. The tubular LLC 0080 may include a peripheral wall 0090 (or in other words, a circumferential wall).

[0220] In some embodiments, the peripheral wall of LLC 0080 may include an impermeable membrane to restrict the movement of the thermal management liquid.

[0221] In some embodiments, LLC 0080 may include a rigid structure, such as an impermeable wall, to restrict the movement of the thermal management fluid.

[0222] For example, Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C This is a top view of the conceptual LLC 0080 tubular structure. In other examples, the side view (i.e., top view) of the tubular structure can be an asymmetrical geometry. Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C In the diagram, each illustrated LLC 0080 includes a peripheral wall 0090 that laterally surrounds a space. The peripheral wall 0090 may extend vertically, i.e., along... Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C The space extends in the x-direction. Therefore, the three-dimensional space surrounded by LLC 0080 can be used to accommodate the thermal management fluid, BCA0010, and some components intended to be integrated with BCA 0010. Due to the impermeability of the peripheral wall 0090, the thermal management fluid contained in LLC0080 can only move in the vertical direction.

[0223] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of BCA 0010, in which not all components of BCA 0010 are shown, in order to clearly illustrate the apparatus for immersing BCA 0010 in a thermal management liquid. For example, Figure 5A and Figure 5B BC0020 is not displayed.

[0224] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A vertical exploded 3D view. Figure 5A and Figure 5B In one embodiment, BCA 0010 includes two battery holders 0050 integrated with BC 0020 (BC 0020 is not shown). Figure 5A and Figure 5B (Middle). Battery holder 0050, BC 0020, and other components not shown that are intended to be integrated with BCA 0010 may be arranged within the space surrounded by LLC 0080.

[0225] In an embodiment where LLC 0080 is formed in a tubular shape, the peripheral wall 0090 may be formed of a material extending vertically between a top vertical position 0092 and a bottom vertical position 0093. At the top vertical position 0092, the inner edge of the peripheral wall 0090 defines a top opening 0094 of LLC 0080; while at the bottom vertical position 0093, the inner edge of the peripheral wall 0090 may define a bottom opening 0095 of LLC 0080. The top opening 0094 and the bottom opening 0095 may be configured as entrances or exits to the space surrounded by the peripheral wall 0090. Components such as BC 0020, battery holder 0050, and other components intended to be arranged within LLC 0080 may be arranged into the interior space of LLC 0080 through at least one of the top opening 0094 and the bottom opening 0095.

[0226] For example, in Figure 5BIn the illustrated embodiment, the peripheral wall extends between a top vertical position 0092 and a bottom vertical position 0093. The vertical length (i.e., height) of LLC 0080 is equal to the vertical distance H1 between the top vertical position 0092 and the bottom vertical position 0093. Two battery holders are disposed in the space surrounded by the peripheral wall through a top opening 0094 and a bottom opening 0095.

[0227] In some embodiments where the LLC 0080 is formed in a rectangular tubular shape, the peripheral wall 0090 of the LLC 0080 may further include four planar sidewalls 0091 arranged circumferentially around and parallel to the vertical axis. For example, in Figure 6A The diagram shows a top view of an example LLC 0080. LLC 0080 comprises four side walls 0091: East Wall 0096, South Wall 0097, West Wall 0098, and North Wall 0099, which are arranged in a circle around a vertical axis.

[0228] In some embodiments, LLC 0080 can be manufactured by a one-piece molding process such as injection molding or die casting. Alternatively, LLC 0080 can be produced using a lathe machining process.

[0229] Please see Figures 6A-6B In some embodiments where the LLC 0080 is formed in a rectangular tubular shape, the peripheral wall 0090 of the LLC 0080 may include four interior corners 0120 and four exterior corners 0125. The four interior corners 0120 may further include: an interior northeast corner 0121, an interior southeast corner 0122, an interior southwest corner 0123, and an interior northwest corner 0124. The four exterior corners 0125 may further include: an exterior northeast corner 0126, an exterior southeast corner 0127, an exterior southwest corner 0128, and an exterior northwest corner 0129.

[0230] In some embodiments, each sidewall may include an inner wall surface 0101 and an outer wall surface 0106. The outer wall surface 0106 of each sidewall 0091 may be an outer planar surface that extends between one of the two outer corners of the corresponding sidewall 0091. For example, in Figure 6B In the middle, the east wall 0096 is included in the outer east surface 0107 extending between the outer northeast corner 0126 and the outer southeast corner 0127; the south wall 0097 is included in the outer south surface 0108 extending between the outer southeast corner 0127 and the outer southwest corner 0128; the west wall 0098 is included in the outer west surface 0109 extending between the outer southwest corner 0128 and the outer northwest corner 0129; and the north wall 0099 is included in the outer north surface 0110 extending between the outer northwest corner 0129 and the outer northeast corner 0126.

[0231] Furthermore, the inner wall surface 0101 of each sidewall 0091 can be an inner planar surface extending between one of the two adjacent interior corners of the base sidewall 0091. For example, in Figure 6B In the middle, the east wall 0096 is included in the inner east surface 0102 extending between the inner northeast corner 0121 and the inner southeast corner 0122; the south wall 0097 is included in the inner south surface 0103 extending between the inner southeast corner 0122 and the inner southwest corner 0123; the west wall 0098 is included in the inner west surface 0104 extending between the inner southwest corner 0123 and the inner northwest corner 0123; and the north wall 0099 is included in the inner north surface 0105 extending between the inner northwest corner 0124 and the inner northeast corner 0121.

[0232] In some embodiments, the peripheral wall 0090 may be assembled from discrete components. For example, in Figure 6B In this example, LLC 0080 includes four corner posts 0130, which are independent components used to assemble with the side walls 0091 (i.e., east wall 0096, south wall 0097, west wall 0098, and north wall 0099) to form the perimeter wall 0090. See other examples for further details. Figure 6C The perimeter wall 0090 can be assembled from two parts surrounding the wall. See other examples for further details. Figure 6D The peripheral wall 0090 can be assembled from four independent side walls 0091.

[0233] In some embodiments, LLC 0080 may include a structure configured for integrating the battery holder 0050 and LLC 0080. When LLC 0080 is in a tubular shape, as... Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C As shown, the battery holder 0050 can be arranged in the space surrounded by LLC 0080 through a top opening 0094 and a bottom opening 0095 at the two vertical ends of the tubular structure. LLC 0080 may include at least one battery holder stop structure 0140, which extends laterally inward from an inner surface of the peripheral wall 0090.

[0234] The vertical relative positions on the inner surface of the peripheral wall 0090 and the vertical dimensions of the battery holder stop structure 0140 define the vertical depth (vertical range) that the battery holder 0050 can reach within the space surrounded by the LLC. Therefore, this lateral structure (i.e., the battery holder stop structure 0140) can limit the vertical movement of the battery holder 0050 by providing a vertical force on it. This vertical force is opposite to the direction of vertical movement of the battery holder 0050 within the space surrounded by the peripheral wall 0090.

[0235] For example, Figure 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 7C , Figure 7D and Figure 7E This is a conceptual diagram of a demonstrative BCA 0010. Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7C This is a top view of the exemplary BCA 0010. Figure 7A In the middle, BCA 0010 (in Figure 7A (Hidden) is integrated with an LLC 0080, and the LLC 0080 includes a peripheral wall 0090. The peripheral wall includes four side walls 0091. The LLC 0080 further includes two battery holder stop structures 0140, which extend laterally inward from the inner surface of the peripheral wall 0090. Each of the two battery holder stop structures 0140 may include an inner boundary 0141. The transverse cross-sectional view (top view) of the inner boundary 0141 may be a line on a transverse plane. Figure 7A In the illustrated embodiment, each inner boundary 0141 is a planar surface parallel to the sidewall where the battery holder stop structure 0140 is located; and the transverse cross-section of the inner boundary 0141 is a straight line along the y-direction. Figure 7A In the middle, the maximum distance between the inner boundary 0141 and the inner surface of the side wall 0091 where the battery holder stop structure 0140 is provided is a constant; for example, in Figure 7A In this case, the constant distance is equal to W2.

[0236] In other embodiments, the inner boundary 0141 may not be a plane; that is, the distance between the inner boundary 0141 and the inner surface of the sidewall 0091 where the battery holder stop structure 0140 is located may not be constant. For example, in Figure 7B In the diagram, the inner boundary 0141 is a curved surface; and the transverse cross-section of the inner boundary 0141 is a curve on the transverse plane.

[0237] It should be noted that the inner wall surface 0101 of the peripheral wall 0090 can be curved, its shape conforming to the curved periphery of the battery holder 0050 or the curved periphery of the battery cell 0020. Because the inner wall surface 0101 is curved to fit the curved periphery of the battery holder 0050 or the battery cell 0020, the volume of the battery module can be reduced. The curved inner wall surface 0101 can also serve as a guide structure when the battery holder 0050 is placed into LLC 0080 during the assembly of the battery module.

[0238] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7B As shown, the curved inner boundary 0141 of the battery holder stop structure 0140 provides additional space to accommodate components of BCA 0010, such as BC 0020 or other components. In some cases, the curved portion of the inner boundary 0141 may include a transverse cross-sectional view, which is a curve with a radius of curvature equal to or greater than the transverse cross-sectional radius of BC. Therefore, BC0020 can be disposed in the space surrounded by the curved portion of the inner boundary 0141 of the battery holder stop structure 0140.

[0239] exist Figure 7CThe diagram illustrates an exemplary BCA 0010. BCA 0010 includes a battery holder 0050 disposed within a space surrounded by a peripheral wall 0090 of LLC 0080. The dashed line A-A' corresponds to... Figure 7D The cross-section shown.

[0240] exist Figure 7D The middle section depicts the route along... Figure 7C A vertical cross-sectional view along the dashed line A-A'. BCA 0010 is integrated with LLC 0080, which further includes a peripheral wall 0090. LLC also includes two battery holders 0050; and two battery holder stop structures 0140 (only one is shown). The battery holder stop structure 0140 is located on the inner surface of the peripheral wall 0090. In the vertical direction, the center of the battery holder stop structure 0140 is aligned with the center of the peripheral wall 0090.

[0241] In some embodiments, the vertical length (hereinafter referred to as height) of the battery holder stop structure 0140 is less than the height of the peripheral wall 0090; therefore, the difference between the height of the battery holder stop structure 0140 and the height of the peripheral wall 0090 provides space to accommodate the battery holder 0050. For example, in Figure 7D In this configuration, the height of the battery holder stop structure 0140 is equal to H4, and the height of the peripheral wall 0090 is equal to H1. The difference between H1 and H4 is twice that of H3. Therefore, the battery holder 0050 can be accommodated in the space between the top opening 0094 of LLC 0080 and the battery holder stop structure 0140, the height of which is equal to H3; and the battery holder 0050 can also be accommodated in the space between the bottom opening 0095 of LLC 0080 and the battery holder stop structure 0140, the height of which is equal to H3.

[0242] In some embodiments, LLC 0080 may include a discrete battery holder stop structure 0140 disposed on the inner surface of sidewall 0091. For example, see Figure 7E LLC 0080 includes a north wall 0099 and two battery holder stops disposed on the inner north surface 0105.

[0243] In some embodiments, LLC 0080 may include at least one battery holder fixing structure 0150, which provides mechanical components to limit the displacement of the battery holder in various directions. For example, see Figure 8AThe LLC 0080, viewed from above, includes four battery holder fixing structures 0150 extending from the inner wall surface 0101 of the peripheral wall 0090. In this embodiment, the battery holder fixing structure 0150 includes fastener holes 0151 for restricting relative movement between the LLC 0080 and the battery holder 0050 using fixing fasteners. In some embodiments, the battery holder fixing structures 0150 and the battery holder stop structures may differ in several aspects, such as shape, lateral position, and vertical position.

[0244] Please see Figure 8B The diagram shows a top view of LLC 0080. Figure 8B In the middle, the battery holder 0050 is disposed in the space surrounded by the peripheral wall of LLC 0080. LLC 0080 includes four fasteners 0152, which pass vertically through the battery holder 0050 and the battery holder fixing structure 0150 (not shown). Figure 8B middle).

[0245] Please see Figure 8C , for along Figure 8B The figure shows a cross-sectional view of LLC 0080 along the dashed line B-B'. As shown, the battery holder 0050 is vertically blocked by the battery holder stop structure 0140 and is fixed to LLC 0080 by fastening the battery holder 0050 and LLC 0080 with the fastener 0152.

[0246] Please see Figure 9A and Figure 9B It is a 3D diagram of two stacked BCAs (integrating LLC 0080).

[0247] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10A As shown, LLC 0080 may include a top wall surface 0160 and a bottom wall surface 0170, which are surfaces that extend laterally and are located at the vertical ends of LLC 0080.

[0248] In some embodiments, the top wall surface 0160 and the bottom wall surface 0170 may include complementary interlocking features configured to resist lateral shear forces when vertically stacked. For example, the top wall surface 0160 may include at least one top surface interlocking structure 0180, and the bottom wall surface 0170 may include at least one bottom surface interlocking structure 0190, such as... Figure 10A As shown. The top surface interlocking structure 0180 and the bottom surface interlocking structure 0190 can be located in specific lateral positions, such that when two LLC 0080s are stacked vertically (e.g., Figure 10BAs shown, the top surface interlocking structure 0180 and the bottom surface interlocking structure 0190 can be combined to provide a lateral force to limit the relative displacement between the two stacked LLCs 0080. For example, a pair of top surface interlocking structures 0180 and bottom surface interlocking structures 0190 can be a protruding structure and a receiving structure.

[0249] Please see Figure 11A and Figure 11B In some embodiments, at least one of the top wall surface 0160, the bottom wall surface 0170, or both may include at least one seal receiving structure 0220 configured to provide space for receiving a seal disposed at the interface of the two LLCs 0080 to prevent liquid leakage from the interface of the two LLCs. For example, the seal 0200 may be an O-ring or an adhesive material. In some embodiments, the bottom wall surface 0170 or both may further include at least one seal positioning structure 0210 configured to restrict lateral movement of the seal 0200. For example, in Figure 11A and Figure 11B In this context, the seal positioning structure 0210 is a gap configured to provide a lateral force to limit the lateral movement of the seal 0200. For example... Figure 11B As shown, the seal 0200 can fill the space provided by the seal receiving structure 0220 to provide a sealing effect.

[0250] In some embodiments, the peripheral wall 0090 may include a vertical wall channel 0230, which is a hollow space within the peripheral wall 0090. The vertical wall channel 0230 may be a through-hole perpendicularly passing through the peripheral wall 0090. The vertical wall channel 0230 may be used to house a PCB for a battery monitoring device 0260, whose signals are connected to BCCM 0026 of BCA 0010, such as... Figure 12A As shown. The vertical wall channel 0230 can be used to accommodate the conductive rod 0280, which allows both the positive electrode 0271 and the negative electrode 0272 to be located at the same terminal of BCA 0010, as shown. Figure 12B As shown.

[0251] As disclosed in application '417 (i.e., application number 18 / 211,417), the vertical wall channel 0230 can be used to provide a vertical flow path, allowing liquid to flow vertically. For example, the vertical wall channel 0230 can refer to the "inlet channel" and "outlet channel" disclosed in application '417.

[0252] In some embodiments, BCA 0010 may be integrated with components to form a battery module (hereinafter referred to as BM) 3010. For example, BM 3010 may be a component consisting of BCA 0010 and other components, such as LLC 0080, thermal regulation components (such as heat dissipation components), battery cell monitoring circuitry, and other components. The manufacturing of BM 3010 is typically an intermediate step in the overall system production process. That is, BM 3010 is considered an intermediate building block for forming higher-order energy storage systems, and BM 3010 is also integrated from a more basic building block—BC 0020. Therefore, BM 3010 may also include modular interfaces configured for integrating BM 3010 into other BM 3010s, and / or into other modules of a larger underlying energy storage system. For example, BM 3010 may include a modular energy interface 3020 (hereinafter referred to as MEEI) configured to provide electrical connections for communication (charging or discharging) of electrical energy stored in or released from BM 3010. MEEI 3020 can be an electrode or connector disposed on BM 3010. For example, MEEI 3020 can be a conductor that directly contacts a current transmission plate 0028 of the first BM 3010 and also directly contacts a current transmission plate 0028 of the second BCA 0010. Such MEEI 3020 then acts as an electrical connector between the two BM 3010s.

[0253] For example, BM 3010 may include interfaces for thermal control components, such as liquid connectors, for allowing thermal control liquid to flow into and out of BM 3010 to another liquid container or channel, such as the top opening 0094 and bottom opening 0095 of LLC 0080. BM 3010 may also include interfaces for mechanical connection to another BM and / or other modules, such as a top surface interlock structure 0180 and a bottom surface interlock structure 0190.

[0254] In this disclosure, the term "battery pack" (hereinafter referred to as BP) 3030 refers to an assembled, manufactured, and packaged energy storage system designed for integration into electrical devices (such as electric vehicles (EVs), BESS, or others) that will be powered by electrical energy discharged from the BP 3030. It is typically manufactured as a unique product, usually by an entity supplying the final device to the original equipment manufacturer (hereinafter referred to as OEM). The BP 3030 is mechanically stable to ensure its integrity during transport and final device installation. For example, the integration and assembly process could be the assembly process for an EV. Furthermore, the BP 3030 is equipped with a standardized interface to facilitate electrical and mechanical integration with larger systems in which the BP 3030 is installed. The spatial dimensions of the BP 3030 are also designed with consideration of the available space for the underlying electrical equipment.

[0255] Please see Figure 13 This is a conceptual diagram of a cross-section of the BP 3030. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 13 As shown, BP3030 may contain two BM 3010s assembled on top of each other in a stacked manner. In other cases, BP 3030 may contain only one BM3010 or more than two BM 3010s. BP may also include an end cap module (hereinafter referred to as TM) 3040 as a cover for BP 3030. TM3040 provides electrical insulation so that BC 0020 ( Figure 13 (Not shown) External electrical isolation from the BP 3030. The BP 3030 may also include an interface module (hereinafter referred to as IM) 3050. The IM 3050 serves not only as a cover but also as the interface for the BP 3030. It should be noted that... Figure 13 Each BM 3010 in this disclosure can be formed (assembled) from LLC 0080 and BCA 0010 previously disclosed in this disclosure.

[0256] In some embodiments, BP 3030 may be liquid-tight, such that the BCA0010 of BM 3010 encapsulated within BP 3030 can be immersed in a thermal management fluid. For example, LLC 0080, TM 3040, and IM 3050 of each BM 3010 may be assembled to form a liquid-tight “battery pack housing” 3031 (hereinafter referred to as the BP housing). In such an example, the BP housing 3031 is assembled from LLC 0080 providing lateral fluid barriers, while a cap on the vertical terminal provides a vertical fluid barrier. For example, the cap may be TM 3040 or IM 3050. These lateral and vertical fluid barriers define a “battery pack space” 3032 (hereinafter referred to as the BP space), which is enclosed by the BP housing 3031 (and simultaneously enclosed by those vertical and lateral fluid barriers).

[0257] In some embodiments, the BP housing 3031 may be electrically insulating, such that the circuitry encapsulated within the BP housing 3031 does not leak to the outside. For example, LLC 0080 and the cover may be formed of an electrically insulating material, or each may contain at least one layer of electrically insulating material.

[0258] In some embodiments, TM 3040 and IM 3050 may also include mechanical interfaces for engaging, connecting, or sealing with the corresponding BM 3010 or the corresponding LLC 0080. For example, TM 3040 may include a top surface interlocking structure 0180, while IM 3050 may include a bottom surface interlocking structure 0190. For example, TM and IM may include the seal receiving structure 0220 previously described in this disclosure.

[0259] like Figure 13As shown, BP 3030 may also include an "Electric Power Interface Module" (hereinafter referred to as EEIM) 3060. EEIM 3060 may include an EEIM housing 3062 that encloses or surrounds the EEIM space 3061 (not shown). Figure 13 (In the middle), this space configuration is used to accommodate battery management circuitry, high-voltage circuitry (e.g., circuitry for transferring high-voltage power from the BP 3030 to downstream loads such as EVs), or both. The EEIM housing 3062 may be integrally formed or formed from multiple EEIM walls 3065. For example, the EEIM walls 3065 may be part of the integrally formed EEIM housing 3062 or separate components. The EEIM 3060 may be mounted on the IM 3050 via an assembly process.

[0260] In some embodiments, IM 3050 may include IM housing 3052, which encloses or surrounds IM space 3054 (not shown). Figure 13 (In the middle), this space configuration is used to accommodate components configured to connect BM 3010 and EEIM 3060.

[0261] In some embodiments, the IM 3050 may further include an IM bus 3053 (not shown). Figure 13 (In Chinese). One terminal of the IM bus 3053 is configured to be electrically connected to the MEEI 3020 of the BM 3010; and the other terminal of the IM bus 3053 is configured to be electrically connected to a high-voltage circuit disposed in the EEIM space 3061. The EEIM 3060 may include a "high-voltage interface connector" 3063 (hereinafter referred to as HVIC), which may be disposed on the EEIM housing 3062 or on the BP housing 3031. The HVIC 3063 may be configured to directly contact the high-voltage circuit disposed in the EEIM space 3061, and therefore the HVIC 3063 may act as a high-voltage circuit interface between the charging / discharging circuit 0040 and the electrical equipment. Therefore, the HVIC 3063 can be regarded as a terminal of the charging / discharging circuit 0040.

[0262] In this disclosure, the interface module 3050 and the end cap module 3040 (collectively referred to as the "cap module") may each include at least one "cap electrical interface" configured to provide an electrical connection path therein. The cap electrical interface is electrically connected between the HVIC 3063 and the MEEI 3020 of the battery module. In some embodiments, the cap electrical interface may be implemented as a rigid bus (e.g., IM bus 3053), a flexible bus, a wire, a conductive trace on a PCB, or any other conductive component suitable for transmitting high-voltage electrical energy.

[0263] In some embodiments, the EEIM space 3061 and the BP space 3032 may be hydraulically continuous, such that components in the EEIM space 3061 can be immersed in a thermal management fluid.

[0264] In other embodiments, the EEIM space 3061 and BP space 3032 may be hydraulically isolated. In this case, IM 3050 may include at least one IM electrical channel 3051 (not shown in the figures) configured to provide a passage between the EEIM space 3061 and BP space 3032. For example, IM channel 3051 may be a through-hole disposed on a sidewall of IM 3050. In some embodiments, IM bus 3053 (not shown in the figures) may be disposed in IM electrical channel 3051 and extend to EEIM space 3061 and BP space 3032 to provide electrical connection between components in the two housing spaces. In some embodiments, to prevent liquid from flowing through IM electrical channel 3051, IM 3050 may further include at least one seal, such as an O-ring, disposed in IM channel 3051 and tightly engaged with the inner wall of IM electrical channel 3051 and IM bus 3053.

[0265] In some embodiments, BP 3030 may include at least one liquid interface 3034 for introducing liquid into and / or drawing liquid out of BP 3030. For example, the liquid interface may be a liquid connector disposed on BP housing 3031. For example, liquid interface 3034 may be disposed as an inlet and / or outlet on the wall of IM 3050 or TM 3040. In some embodiments, BP 3030 may include a first liquid interface 3034(a) as an inlet of BP housing 3031 and a second liquid interface 3034(b).

[0266] In some embodiments, the liquid interface 3034 may be configured to connect to an external liquid circulation system, such as a liquid source or a liquid circulation system with a pump.

[0267] Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 15A and Figure 15B This is a conceptual diagram of an embodiment of the BP 3030.

[0268] In some embodiments, such as Figure 14AAs shown, BP 3030 may include a plurality of BM3010 stacked in a vertical direction. BP 3030 may further include and be assembled with a first IM 3050(a) configured as a first vertical cover and a second IM 3050(b) configured as a second vertical cover, located at opposite vertical ends of the stacked BM 3010. BP 3030 may further include a first EEIM 3060(a) and a second EEIM 3060(b). The first EEIM 3060(a) is disposed on the first IM 3050(a), and the second EEIM 3060(b) is disposed on the second IM 3050(b). The first EEIM 3060(a) may further include a first HVIC 3063(a) disposed at one of the two vertical ends of BP 3030; and the second EEIM 3060(b) may further include a second HVIC 3063(b) disposed at the other vertical end of BP 3030. This configuration is for connecting to downstream loads with separate terminals.

[0269] In some embodiments, such as Figure 14B As shown, BP 3030 may include multiple BM3010s stacked vertically. BP 3030 may further include and assemble TM 3040 configured as a first vertical cover and IM 3050 configured as a second vertical cover, located at opposite vertical ends of the stacked BM 3010s. BP 3030 may further include EEIM 3060. EEIM 3060 is disposed on IM 3050. EEIM 3060 may further include two HVIC 3063s disposed at the same end of the two opposite vertical ends of BP 3030. This configuration is for connection to downstream loads with tightly packed terminals. LLC 0080 may further include vertical wall channels 0230. The vertical wall channels 0230 of each LLC 0080 may be sealed together to form a vertical through-hole extending vertically through the entire assembly of the stacked BM 3030. The BP 3030 may further include a conductive rod 0280, which is configured such that the first and second electrodes of the circuit formed by all the series and / or parallel connected battery cells are located at the second vertical end of the entire stacked BP 3030 assembly.

[0270] In some embodiments, the conductive rod 0280 may be connected to a first electrode at a first vertical end of the entire stacked BM 3030 assembly, to the circuit formed by the series and / or parallel electrical connection of all BC 0020 via BCCM 0026 and MEEI 3020, the first vertical end being adjacent to TM 3040. The conductive rod may be disposed in a vertical through-hole, extending vertically through the vertical through-hole of the entire stacked BM 3030 assembly, and may protrude from a second vertical end of the entire stacked BM 3030 assembly adjacent to IM 3050. Therefore, both the first and second electrodes of the circuit formed by all series and / or parallel connected battery cells are located at the second vertical end of the entire stacked BM 3030 assembly.

[0271] In some embodiments, when the HVIC 3063 of the BP 3030 is located on the same vertical end of the stacked BM 3020, the HVIC 3063 of the BP 3030 can be arranged on the same vertical end of the stacked BM 3020. This arrangement facilitates system integration because both the liquid connections to external coolant channels and the electrical connections to downstream loads can be made on the same side of the battery pack. This not only reduces the complexity of installation and maintenance but also improves the compactness and reliability of the battery pack assembly.

[0272] Please see Figure 16A This is a conceptual perspective view of the BP 3030 cross-section. Components mentioned in this embodiment or having similar reference numerals as in the above embodiments represent components with similar structures or functions, and their descriptions are omitted here. It should be noted that... Figure 16A , Figure 16B This is not an accurate cross-sectional view of the BP 3030. Figure 16A This aims to illustrate several structural features of BP3030 that can be observed from the cross-sectional views. Although these structural features are shown on the same plane, this does not mean that these technical features must be located in the same xy section. Furthermore, the term "transverse" refers to... Figure 16A , Figure 16B Any vector in the yz plane. For example, a transverse fluid flow can be a fluid flow that moves only in the z direction in the yz plane; a transverse channel can be a channel located in the yz plane that extends only in the z direction.

[0273] In some embodiments, BP 3030 may be connected to circulation and heat exchange system 3080 to form a dead-loop liquid circulation system. Liquid flow is generated when the dead-loop liquid circulation system is filled with liquid and pressure is applied by a pump to start liquid circulation.

[0274] Generally, a battery pack is assembled from multiple battery modules (BMs) and cover modules. For example, such as Figure 16AAs shown, four BM 3010s (but not limited to this, meaning the number of BM 3010s can vary depending on the actual application of BP 3030) and two cover modules 3090(a) and 3090(b) are stacked to form BP 3030, wherein cover modules 3090(a) and 3090(b) can be the aforementioned IM or TM, or other types of cover modules. In some embodiments, BM 3010s and cover modules 3090(a) and 3090(b) can be assembled to form a liquid-tight BP housing with BP space 3032. By introducing thermal management fluid into BP space 3032, the relevant BP components within BP space 3032 can be immersed in the thermal management fluid for heat dissipation. For example, as Figure 16A As shown, each BM 3010 includes a liquid-tight LLC 0080 that provides a lateral fluid barrier (i.e., peripheral wall 0090). The BM 3010s are stacked to cooperatively form a BM stack, and the peripheral walls 0090 are also stacked to cooperatively form stack peripheral walls. Cap modules 3090(a) and 3090(b) serve as vertical caps, forming a liquid-tight BP housing together with the stack peripheral walls. It should be noted that any two stacks of BM 3010s can employ the above-described sealing design to prevent liquid leakage from the interface between the two stacks of BM 3010s; a related description can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 11A and Figure 11B And so on, omitted here.

[0275] like Figure 16A As shown, BP 3030 is connected to the circulation and heat exchange system 3080 via a liquid circulation pipe 3081, and each cover module may include at least one "interface liquid connector" 3091 (hereinafter referred to as ILC) connected to the liquid circulation pipe 3081. The circulation and heat exchange system 3080 drives the thermal management liquid into BP 3030 in the inflow direction F1 through one ILC 3091, then through the entire BP space 3032, and out of BP 3030 in the outflow direction F2 through another ILC 3091. The circulation and heat exchange system 3080 may include a heat exchanger or other device for regulating the temperature of the thermal management liquid to regulate the temperature before it enters BP 3030 for the next circulation.

[0276] More specifically, please see Figure 16A The BP 3030 may include multiple structural features to guide the flow of thermal management fluids. For example... Figure 16A As shown, each cover module includes a cover vertical channel 3092, which is a through-hole extending in a vertical direction, allowing the thermal management fluid to flow vertically within the through-hole. In some embodiments, the cover vertical channel 3092 communicates directly with the ILC 3091 and the BP space 3032, allowing the thermal management fluid to flow into or out of the BP space 3032 through the cover vertical channel 3092.

[0277] After the thermal management fluid flows into the BP space 3032 through the vertical channel 3092 of the cover, the area that the thermal management fluid can reach or touch can be vertically divided into a cover module area 3093 and a battery module area 3011. Specifically, the cover module area 3093 refers to the area of ​​the BP space 3032 covered within each cover module. For example... Figure 16A The cover module 3090(a) may include an inner cover surface 3094. The cover module region 3093 may be defined by a portion of the BP space 3032 extending from the module interface reference line 3012 between the cover module 3090(a) and the BM 3010 to the inner cover surface 3094. Specifically, the battery module region 3011 refers to the portion of the BP space 3032 covered within the peripheral wall 0090 of the LLC0080. Due to the tight fit between the cover module 3090(a) and the BM 3010 to prevent liquid leakage, thermal management fluid can flow from the cover module region 3093 into the battery module region 3011 through the module interface reference line 3012. The fluid flow described above through the tubular opening of the LLC 0080 and flowing through the stacked BM 3010 is referred to in this disclosure as LLC fluid flow 0081.

[0278] Please see Figure 16B It is a conceptual 3D diagram of the BP 3030 cross-section, in which Figure 16A The middle shows but Figure 16B Some figure marks not shown in the figure can be used Figure 16B .

[0279] Please see Figure 16B In some cases, components or structures within the BP space 3032 may create flow resistance. For example, BCA 0010 may include at least (but not limited to) battery holder 0050, BC 0020, and BCCM 0026 (not shown). Figure 16B (Middle). LLC 0080 may also include battery holder stop structure 0140 or other structures assembled with battery holder 0050. These structures or components will generate vertical flow resistance or local eddies, affecting the uniformity of the flow field distribution, thereby creating hot spots within BP space 3032 and causing heat dissipation problems.

[0280] Furthermore, because the thermal management liquid enters the BP space 3032 and flows sequentially through each BM 3010 in a one-to-one manner, the first BM 3010 and the last BM 3010 have different heat dissipation conditions. For example, in each cycle, the thermal management liquid leaves the heat exchanger at its initial temperature. The farther the thermal management liquid flows, the more its temperature deviates from its initial state. In the entire flow loop, the BM 3010 closest to the pump outlet 3082 is called the nearest BM 3010 (i.e., the first BM 3010), while the BM 3010 farthest from the pump outlet 3082 is called the farthest BM 3010 (i.e., the last BM 3010). The temperature of the nearest BM 3010 may be closest to the predetermined target temperature, or have the smallest fluctuation relative to the predetermined target temperature. On the other hand, the temperature of the farthest BM 3010 may have the largest difference from the predetermined target temperature, or have the largest fluctuation relative to the predetermined target temperature.

[0281] like Figure 16B As shown, in this disclosure, the portion of the BP space 3032 extending vertically between the two battery holders 0050 in BM 3010 can be defined as the battery cell region 0051, while the portion of the BP space 3032 extending from the two battery holders 0050 to the tubular openings at the top and bottom of LLC 0080 is defined as the edge region 0052. As mentioned above, since the battery holders 0050 and other components connected to the battery holders 0050 (such as BCCM 0026) may generate flow resistance, the flow resistance from the edge region 0052 to the battery cell region 0051, or from the battery cell region 0051 to the edge region 0052, is relatively large. In the above-described one-to-one configuration of the flow channels connected in series, the flow resistance will increase with the increase in the number of BM 3010.

[0282] Figure 17 This is a conceptual diagram of the physical configuration of the battery pack 3030 according to an embodiment of the present invention. This diagram illustrates... Figure 1B The circuit components, functional blocks, and connection interfaces described herein are physically arranged and integrated within the mechanical structure of the battery pack 3030.

[0283] exist Figure 17 In the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack 3030 includes a plurality of vertically stacked battery modules 3010. The battery pack 3030 further includes a first energy interface module (EEIM) 3060a disposed at a first vertical end (e.g., the top) of the stacked battery modules 3010, and a second energy interface module (EEIM) 3060b disposed at a second vertical end (e.g., the bottom) opposite to the first vertical end.

[0284] like Figure 17 As shown, Figure 1BThe high-voltage switching circuit is physically divided into a first circuit module 3001 and a second circuit module 3002 according to its function and connection.

[0285] A first circuit module 3001 is housed within a first EEIM 3060a. The first circuit module 3001 includes components associated with the positive terminal of the battery pack 3030. Specifically, the first circuit module 3001 includes a contactor (positive) 307, a contactor (pre-charge) 309, a resistor (pre-charge) 310, and an HVIL 306. A positive high-voltage interface connector (HVIC (+)) is also disposed on the first EEIM 3060a to electrically connect the first circuit module 3001 to an external load.

[0286] The second circuit module 3002 is housed within the second EEIM 3060b. The second circuit module 3002 includes components associated with the negative terminal of the battery pack 3030. Specifically, the second circuit module 3002 includes a contactor (negative terminal) 312 and a current shunt 311. A negative high-voltage interface connector (HVIC (-)) is disposed on the second EEIM 3060b to electrically connect the second circuit module 3002 to an external load.

[0287] This distributed architecture, in which the first circuit module 3001 (positive switching side) and the second circuit module 3002 (negative switching side) are physically separated and located at opposite vertical ends of the battery pack 3030, allows for efficient use of space and improves thermal management by separating heat sources.

[0288] In some embodiments, the spaces within the first EEIM 3060a and the second EEIM 3060b are hydraulically isolated from the battery pack space in which the battery cells are immersed, such that the first circuit module 3001 and the second circuit module 3002 are not immersed in the thermal management fluid. However, in other embodiments, these spaces may be configured to be hydraulically continuous with the battery pack space to allow for immersion cooling of the first circuit module 3001 and the second circuit module 3002.

[0289] Battery pack 3030 further utilizes the vertical wall channel 0230 of LLC 0080 of battery module 3010 to accommodate signal cables and interfaces. For example... Figure 17 As shown, the vertical wall channels 0230 of the stacked battery module 3010 form a continuous vertical channel. Signal cables (represented by connecting lines in the channel) are arranged within this vertical channel to establish signal connections between the battery management circuit 300 (which may be externally located or connected via connectors) and components located on different layers of the battery pack 3030.

[0290] For example, a battery monitoring circuit 305 is disposed within each battery module 3010, physically close to the battery cell to perform precise measurements. The battery monitoring circuit 305 is signal-connected to a signal cable in a vertical wall channel 0230 via a signal interface. Through this vertical signal backbone, measurement data from each battery monitoring circuit 305 can be transmitted upwards to the battery management circuit 300. Similarly, control signals from the battery management circuit 300 can be transmitted downwards through the vertical wall channel 0230 to control the contactor (negative terminal) 312 and receive data from the current shunt 311 in the second circuit module 3002 located within the second EEIM 3060b.

[0291] Regarding the high-voltage circuit (represented by thick lines), electrical energy flows from battery module 3010 through contactor (positive) 307 and the pre-charging circuit (309, 310) of the first circuit module 3001 to HVIC (+), and from battery module 3010 through current shunt 311 and contactor (negative) 312 of the second circuit module 3002 to HVIC (-).

[0292] Regarding the low-voltage circuit (represented by thin lines), the battery management circuit 300 is powered by a power source from an external source or the battery pack itself, and is signal-connected to the pump 302 to control liquid circulation. The battery management circuit 300 is also connected via a connector to a signal cable within the vertical wall channel 0230. This configuration allows the battery management circuit 300 to centrally manage the first circuit module 3001, the second circuit module 3002, and the battery monitoring circuit 305 distributed throughout the battery pack 3030.

[0293] Figure 18A A perspective view of a battery pack (3030) is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 18B Based on the exemplary embodiments illustrated in this disclosure Figure 18A The electronic connection structure of the battery monitoring circuit (3110 and 3120) shown.

[0294] Components mentioned in this embodiment or having similar reference numerals as those in the above embodiments represent components with similar structures or functions, and related descriptions are omitted here.

[0295] refer to Figure 18A In some embodiments, each BM 3010 may include corresponding battery monitoring circuits 3110 and 3120 installed in the corresponding BM 3010 (i.e., Figure 12AThis is one of the battery monitoring devices (0260) shown. In some embodiments, battery monitoring circuit 3110 may be electrically connected to battery monitoring circuit 3120 to transmit monitoring data or control signals. In some embodiments, the electrical connector of battery monitoring circuit 3110 may be mounted on BM 3010 and may be exposed on LLC 0080. The electrical connector of battery monitoring circuit 3120 may be mounted on BM 3010 and may be exposed on LLC 0080. When BM 3010 are connected to each other, the electrical connector of battery monitoring circuit 3110 may also be directly or electrically connected to the electrical connector of battery monitoring circuit 3120. Therefore, when BMs are connected to each other, the electrical connectors of battery monitoring circuit 3110 and battery monitoring circuit 3120 may not be exposed outside BM 3010.

[0296] In some embodiments, such as Figure 18A , 18B As shown, BM 3010 may further include at least one PCB for a specific function. Such a functional PCB may be arranged in BP space 3032, or as previously described (see...). Figure 12A (and its description) are located in vertical wall channel 0230, or in either of the two spaces mentioned above.

[0297] In some embodiments, such as Figure 18B As shown, BM 3010 may further include at least one flexible printed circuit (FPC) assembly for a specific function. Such a functional FPC assembly may be arranged in BP space 3032, or as previously described (see...). Figure 12A (and its description) are located in vertical wall channel 0230, or in either of the two spaces mentioned above.

[0298] In some embodiments, such as Figure 18B As shown, BM 3010 may further include at least one PCB-FPC interface 3163 configured for electrical or signal connection between the PCB and the FPC. In some embodiments, the PCB-FPC interface 3163 may be a pair of interconnectable connectors respectively disposed on the PCB and the FPC.

[0299] For example, such as Figure 18B As shown, each BM 3010 of BP 3030 includes a PCB (not shown in this figure) arranged in a vertical wall channel 0230, two FPC assemblies arranged in another vertical wall channel (or the same vertical wall channel where the PCB is arranged), and BP space 3032. The PCB-FPC interface 3163 is arranged in the vertical wall channel and located on the PCB.

[0300] like Figure 18BAs shown, each of the two FPC components comprises a first portion located in a vertical wall channel and a second portion located in a BP space 3032. In the vertical wall channel, the first portions of the two FPC components are signal- and electrically connected to the PCB-FPC interface 3130 and the PCB. In the vertical wall channel, the body of the first portion of each FPC component extends vertically to a vertical position within the vertical wall channel; therefore, at this vertical position, the body of each FPC extends continuously in the z-direction and thus enters the BP space 3032 (this portion is considered the second portion of the FPC).

[0301] In some embodiments, the second portion of the FPC may extend laterally in the BP space 3032 to be directly attached to the BCA 0010 in any lateral direction to form an electrical and / or signal connection with the BCA 0010.

[0302] For example, such as Figure 18B As shown, the second part of the FPC extends along the positive y-edge (in the z-direction) of BCA 0010 and directly connects to and contacts each BCCM 0026.

[0303] For example, such as Figure 18B As shown, the second part of the FPC may further include a branch that extends from the positive y edge of BCA 0010, reaches a specific lateral position of BCA 0010 along the negative y direction of BCA 0010, and directly connects to and contacts BCCM 0026 at that specific lateral position.

[0304] In some embodiments, the functional purpose of the PCB and FPC circuit configuration may be battery cell monitoring. For example, the PCB may be a battery cell monitoring device that includes a processor, controller, and driver for controlling sensors that sense the state of BC 0020 or BCA0010. Such sensors and sensing connections may be arranged on the FPC assembly, forming a loop to the PCB on which the battery cell monitoring device is arranged.

[0305] In some embodiments, the functional purpose of the PCB and FPC circuit configuration may be BP heating. For example, the PCB may be a battery cell heating device that includes a processor, controller, and driver for controlling the generation of heat to heat the heaters in the BP space 3032. Such heaters and heating connections may be arranged on the FPC assembly and form a loop to the PCB on which the battery cell monitoring device is arranged.

[0306] In some embodiments, each BM 3010 may further include a plurality of BC 0020s. In some embodiments, a first BM 3010 may further include a plurality of BCCM 0026(a) and a plurality of BCCM 0026(b), and each BC0020 of the first BM 3010 may be electrically connected to one BCCM 0026(a) and one BCCM 0026(b). In some embodiments, a last BM 3010 may further include a plurality of BCCM 0026(c) and a plurality of BCCM 0026(d), and each BC0020 of the last BM 3010 may be electrically connected to one BCCM 0026(c) and one BCCM 0026(d). In some embodiments, a plurality of BCCM 0026(a), BCCM 0026(b), BCCM 0026(c), and BCCM 0026(d) may be used to electrically connect the BC 0020s to each other. Furthermore, BC 0020 can be electrically connected to each other in series or parallel via multiple BCCM 0026(a), BCCM 0026(b), BCCM 0026(c), and BCCM 0026(d). (See reference) Figure 18A In some embodiments, one of the plurality of BCCMs 0026(a) is electrically connected to HVIC 3063 on cover module 3090(a), and one of the plurality of BCCMs 0026(d) is electrically connected to HVIC 3063 on cover module 3090(b). Furthermore, one of the plurality of BCCMs 0026(b) is electrically connected to one of the plurality of BCCMs 0026(c). Therefore, electrical energy can be discharged from or stored in BC 0020 through HVIC 3063 on cover module 3090(a) and HVIC 3063 on cover module 3090(b).

[0307] In some embodiments, the battery monitoring circuit 3110 may be electrically connected to BCCMs 0026(a) and 0026(b) and a plurality of battery sensing circuits 3111. The battery sensing circuits 3111 may be electrically connected to at least one BCCM 0026(a) and at least one BCCM 0026(b). In some embodiments, BCCMs 0026(a) and 0026(b) and the battery sensing circuits 3111 may be housed in the BP space 3032 of the BM 3010, such that BCCMs 0026(a) and 0026(b) and the battery sensing circuits 3111 may be immersed in a thermal management liquid contained in the BM 3010 to dissipate heat from the BCCMs 0026(a) and 0026(b) and the battery sensing circuits 3111. In some embodiments, the battery monitoring circuit 3120 may be electrically connected to BCCMs 0026(c) and 0026(d) via a plurality of battery sensing circuits 3121. Multiple battery sensing circuits 3121 may be electrically connected to BCCM 0026(c) and BCCM 0026(d). In some embodiments, BCCM 0026(c) and 0026(d) and the battery sensing circuits 3121 may be immersed in a thermal management liquid contained in BM 3010 to dissipate heat from BCCM 0026(c) and 0026(d) and the battery sensing circuits 3121. In some embodiments, the battery sensing circuits 3111 and 3121 may be flexible printed circuit boards (FPCs).

[0308] In some embodiments, battery sensing circuits 3111 and 3121 can be used to measure the voltage and temperature of BCCM 0026(a), BCCM 0026(b), BCCM 0026(c), and BCCM 0026(d) to provide measurement results to battery monitoring circuits 3110 and 3120. In some embodiments, battery monitoring circuits 3110 and 3120 can control the temperature and voltage of BC 0020 and battery sensing circuits 3111 and 3121 based on the measurement results to control the temperature of the thermal management liquid. For example, battery monitoring circuit 3110 can control / use battery sensing circuit 3111 to convert electrical energy of BC 0020, which is respectively electrically connected to BCCM 0026(a) and 0026(b), into heat energy to control the voltage and temperature of BC 0020. In some embodiments, battery monitoring circuits 3110 and 3120 control the temperature and voltage of BC 0020 and further control the operation of battery sensing circuits 3111 and 3121, which can be achieved through programmable drive signals. For example, management circuit 3110 can generate a switching signal, a current-limiting command, or a pulse-width modulation (PWM) signal to cause a controlled current to flow through BC 0020 or through a heating element within battery sensing circuit 3111. This controlled current can be converted into heat energy due to the internal resistance of BC 0020 or the heating element of battery sensing circuit 3111, thereby increasing or stabilizing the temperature of BC 0020 or the thermal management fluid. Similarly, voltage regulation can be achieved by adjusting the magnitude, duration, or duty cycle of the current supplied through battery sensing circuit 3111, thereby controlling the voltage level of BC 0020.

[0309] In some embodiments, the battery monitoring circuit 3120 can control / use the battery sensing circuit 3121 to convert electrical energy from BC 0020 into heat energy to control the voltage and temperature of BC 0020. Therefore, when the battery monitoring circuits 3110 and 3120 control the temperature of the battery sensing circuits 3111 and 3121, the electrical energy from BC 0020 can be directly used to heat the thermal management fluid and BC 0020 to increase the temperature of the thermal management fluid. Thus, due to the voltage and temperature control functions of the battery monitoring circuits 3110 and 3120, no additional heating equipment needs to be installed in BM 3010. Furthermore, since the battery monitoring circuits 3110 and 3120 and the battery sensing circuits 3111 and 3121 can be installed in BM 3010 rather than exposed outside of BM 3010, the possibility of component damage is reduced, while improving component durability. In some embodiments, battery sensing circuits 3111 and 3121 may include heating traces that generate heat when current flows through them under the control of battery monitoring circuits 3110 and 3120. Therefore, the resistive losses generated by battery sensing circuits 3111 and 3121 can be dissipated as heat, which can then be transferred from battery monitoring circuits 3110 and 3120 to the thermal management fluid. In this way, the temperature of the thermal management fluid can be increased without the need for additional heating components.

[0310] Figure 19 Based on the exemplary embodiments illustrated in this disclosure Figure 18A and Figure 18B The circuit diagram shown is for BC 0020, battery monitoring circuit 3110 and battery sensing circuit 3111.

[0311] Components mentioned in this embodiment or having similar reference numerals as those in the above embodiments represent components with similar structures or functions, and related descriptions are omitted here.

[0312] refer to Figure 18B and Figure 19In some embodiments, BM 3010 may further include one or more switches 3130 and a heating module 3140. In some embodiments, one or more switches 3130 may be electrically connected to BC 0020, battery monitoring circuit 3110, and heating module 3140. In some embodiments, battery monitoring circuit 3110 may send a switch signal to control one or more switches 3130 to turn on or off. In some embodiments, when battery monitoring circuit 3110 turns off one or more switches 3130, current from BC 0020 may not flow through heating module 3140. Therefore, heating module 3140 may not convert electrical energy from BC 0020 into heat energy. In some embodiments, when battery monitoring circuit 3110 turns on one or more switches 3130, current from BC 0020 may flow through heating module 3140. Therefore, heating module 3140 may convert electrical energy from BC 0020 into heat energy to heat BC 0020 and thermal management fluid contained in BM 3010. In some embodiments, heating module 3140 may be a heating copper trace. In some embodiments, the battery monitoring circuit 3110 can control one or more switches 3130 by generating drive signals (e.g., gate control voltage, base current, or pulse width modulation signals), depending on the type of switch 3130 (e.g., MOSFET, BJT, or other semiconductor switching devices). These drive signals can selectively drive one or more switches 3130 into an off state or an on state. It should be noted that in practical applications, BM 3010 may include at least two battery monitoring circuits, a battery sensing circuit, and a heating module.

[0313] In some embodiments, BM 3010 may further include an electrical safety device 3150 electrically connected to one or more switches 3130 and heating module 3140. In some embodiments, electrical safety device 3150 may include a fusible metal wire or strip that melts or interrupts the circuit when the current exceeds a threshold current. Thus, when the current in heating module 3140 exceeds the threshold current, electrical safety device 3150 may shut off the current to stop heating the thermal management liquid and BC 0020. In some embodiments, when electrical safety device 3150 melts due to excessive current, the conductive path between one or more switches 3130 and heating module 3140 may be physically broken. Thus, the electrical connection supplying current to heating module 3140 may be interrupted, causing heating module 3140 to stop receiving electrical energy. Therefore, heating module 3140 may immediately stop generating heat, thereby shutting off the heating operation of thermal management liquid and BC 0020.

[0314] In some embodiments, the heating module 3140 may further include a temperature sensor 3141 electrically connected to the battery monitoring circuit 3110. The battery monitoring circuit 3110 may control the temperature sensor 3141 to monitor the temperature of the thermal management fluid and BC 0020. In some embodiments, the battery monitoring circuit 3110 may control the temperature sensor 3141 by providing a sensing control signal to activate the temperature measurement function of the temperature sensor 3141. For example, the battery monitoring circuit 3110 may periodically send a reference voltage or current to the battery monitoring circuit 3110 so that the temperature sensor 3141 generates a temperature sensing signal. The battery monitoring circuit 3110 may then receive the temperature sensing signal to determine the temperature of the thermal management fluid and BC 0020. It should be noted that the functional purpose of the battery sensing circuit described above still includes temperature sensing, and the battery sensing circuit and the temperature sensor 3141 sense the temperature of different components in BP 3030.

[0315] Therefore, the electrical energy of BC 0020 can be directly used to heat the thermal management liquid and BC 0020. Due to the voltage and temperature control functions of the battery monitoring circuit 3110, no additional heating equipment may be required in BM 3010. Furthermore, since the battery monitoring circuit 3110, one or more switches 3130, and heating module 3140 can all be installed inside BM 3010, rather than exposed outside BM 3010, the possibility of damage to the battery monitoring circuit 3110 and battery sensing circuit 3111 is reduced, and the durability of the battery monitoring circuit 3110 and battery sensing circuit 3111 is improved.

[0316] In some embodiments, the battery sensing circuit 3111 can increase the temperature of the thermal management fluid because the heating module 3140 generates heat when current flows through it (e.g., heating copper traces or resistive elements). When the battery monitoring circuit 3110 turns on one or more switches 3130, current can pass through the heating module 3140, and the resistive losses generated by the heating module 3140 can be converted into heat energy. Therefore, heat energy can be transferred to the thermal management fluid, thereby increasing the temperature of the thermal management fluid.

[0317] In some embodiments, the PCB (e.g., battery monitoring circuit 3110) may further include a vertical stack connector 3160 disposed at the vertical end of at least one battery module.

[0318] This vertical stack connector 3160 can be configured as a signal interface between the PCB of the bottom BM 3010 (e.g., battery monitoring circuit 3110) and another PCB of the adjacent BM 3010 (e.g., battery monitoring circuit 3110). The vertical stack connector 3160 can electrically couple two adjacent BMs (i.e., BMs 3010 directly stacked to each other).

[0319] In some embodiments, the two vertically stacked connectors 3160 configured to connect to each other can be configured to enable blind mating (or automatic mating). This blind mating capability means that the connectors are mechanically and automatically aligned when the BM 3010 is vertically stacked, ensuring a fast and reliable electrical connection. This feature significantly improves the efficiency and automation level of the battery pack manufacturing process.

[0320] In some embodiments, the PCB (e.g., battery monitoring circuit 3110) disposed within the vertical wall channel 0230 may further include a vertical interface connector 3162 disposed at its vertical end.

[0321] The vertical interface connector 3162 is configured to electrically connect the circuit board to a corresponding connector located on one of the two cover modules 3090 when the BM 3010 and the cover module 3090 are assembled vertically. The primary purpose of this connection is to transmit status information (such as voltage, temperature, or current) collected by the circuit board to the main electronic control unit located in the cover module 3090.

[0322] Specifically, the EEIM 3060, located on one of the two cover modules 3090, is configured to house or be electrically coupled to the battery management circuitry for further processing or control.

[0323] In some embodiments, the vertical stack connector 3160 and the vertical interface connector 3162 may be implemented as a single physical connector located on a circuit board, wherein the single connector is configured with individual pins or contacts to perform module-to-module stacking connections and module-to-EEIM signal interface functions.

[0324] Therefore, the vertical interface connector 3162 is configured to electrically connect the circuit board 3110 to the battery management circuitry located within the EEIM 3060. This arrangement facilitates the modular transmission of precise battery cell data to the battery management circuitry for control and protection, thereby significantly improving the modularity and maintainability of the battery pack.

[0325] The embodiments shown and described above are merely exemplary. Many details can generally be found in the art. Therefore, many such details are neither shown nor described. Although many features and advantages of this disclosure have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of this disclosure, this disclosure is merely illustrative and changes may be made in detail. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments can be modified within the scope of the claims. Those skilled in the art will readily observe that many modifications and variations can be made to the apparatus and methods while retaining the teachings of the invention. Therefore, the above disclosure should be construed only as limited by the boundaries and scope of the appended claims.

[0326] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. All equivalent changes and modifications made in accordance with the claims of the present invention should be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A battery pack, characterized in that, include: A charging and discharging circuit includes at least one battery cell assembly, the at least one battery cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells, the plurality of battery cells being mechanically and electrically integrated; A battery pack casing housing the charging and discharging circuit; At least one high-voltage interface connector is disposed on the battery pack housing and is used to transmit high-voltage power between the battery pack and an external electrical device; A high-voltage switching circuit, disposed within the battery pack, is used to selectively open and close a high-voltage electrical connection between the charging / discharging circuit and the external electrical equipment; and A battery management circuit is disposed within the battery pack and is used to control and drive the high-voltage switching circuit; The battery pack housing is formed by at least one tubular housing and two cover modules, wherein the at least one tubular housing is vertically stacked into a tube stack, and the two cover modules respectively cover opposite ends of the tube stack to form the battery pack housing. The battery pack housing provides an insulating barrier that isolates the at least one battery cell assembly from an external part of the battery pack. The two cover modules include a first cover module and a second cover module.

2. The battery pack as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one tubular housing is a liquid-limiting housing; and the battery pack housing is used to become liquid-tight to define a battery pack space for containing a thermal management liquid, such that when the thermal management liquid is introduced into the battery pack space, the charging and discharging circuit is immersed in the thermal management liquid.

3. The battery pack as described in claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the first cover module and the second cover module is an interface module; wherein the battery pack further includes at least one power interface module disposed on the at least one interface module; and the high voltage switching circuit includes a positive contactor and a negative contactor, which are housed in the at least one power interface module.

4. The battery pack as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first cover module is disposed at a first vertical end of the tube stack, and the second cover module is disposed at a second vertical end of the tube stack; and both the first cover module and the second cover module are interface modules, wherein a first power interface module is disposed on the first cover module, and a second power interface module is disposed on the second cover module.

5. The battery pack as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The high-voltage switching circuit and the battery management circuit are functionally divided into a first circuit module and a second circuit module; wherein the first circuit module is housed in the first power interface module and includes the positive contactor, a pre-charge contactor, a pre-charge resistor and a high-voltage interlock circuit; and the second circuit module is housed in the second power interface module and includes the negative contactor and a current shunt.

6. The battery pack as described in claim 5, characterized in that, Each of the at least one tubular housing includes a vertical wall channel; wherein the battery pack further includes a signal line arranged in the vertical wall channel; and the signal line is electrically connected to a low-voltage circuit of the first circuit module and a low-voltage circuit of the second circuit module for control signal transmission.

7. The battery pack as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The charging and discharging circuit is electrically connected to the positive contactor and the pre-charge contactor of the first circuit module, and is also electrically connected to the current shunt and the negative contactor of the second circuit module.

8. The battery pack as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first cover module is disposed at a first vertical end of the tube stack and is an interface module; and the second cover module is disposed at a second vertical end of the tube stack and is an end cover module.

9. The battery pack as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The high-voltage switching circuit includes the positive contactor, a pre-charge contactor, a pre-charge resistor, a high-voltage interlock circuit, the negative contactor, and a current shunt, all of which are housed in the power interface module.

10. The battery pack as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, Each of the at least one tubular housing includes a vertical wall channel; wherein the battery pack further includes a signal line arranged in the vertical wall channel; and wherein the signal line is electrically connected to a low-voltage circuit of the high-voltage switching circuit.

11. The battery pack as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The charging and discharging circuit is electrically connected to the positive contactor, the pre-charge contactor, and the current shunt housed in the power interface module.

12. The battery pack as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The vertical wall channels of the at least one tubular housing are aligned to form a continuous vertical through-hole, the continuous vertical through-hole penetrating the tube stack; wherein the battery pack further includes a conductive rod housed in the continuous vertical through-hole; and the conductive rod is used to electrically connect an electrode of the charging / discharging circuit disposed at the second vertical end to the power interface module disposed at the first vertical end.

13. The battery pack as described in claim 3, characterized in that, Each of the at least one battery cell assembly includes a battery monitoring circuit disposed within the tubular housing; wherein the battery monitoring circuit includes a vertical interface connector disposed at a vertical end of the tubular housing; and the vertical interface connector is used to electrically connect the battery monitoring circuit to the battery management circuit housed in the power interface module to transmit a status of the plurality of battery cells.

14. The battery pack as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a seal disposed at an interface between two adjacent stacked tubular housings or at an interface between the tubular housing and one of the two cover modules; at least one of the tubular housings or the two cover modules includes a seal receiving structure for receiving and positioning the seal to seal the battery pack space.

15. The battery pack as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The battery management circuit is housed in the first power interface module; wherein the at least one tubular housing includes a vertical wall channel, the vertical wall channel has a signal line disposed therein, the signal line being electrically connected to the first power interface module and the second power interface module; the battery management circuit is used to transmit a control signal to the second power interface module through the signal line to control an open state or a closed state of the negative contactor.

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