Cap washer for cylindrical secondary battery and cylindrical secondary battery using the same

Abstract

A cap gasket and a battery cell employing the cap gasket are provided, wherein the cap gasket maintains sealing force without excessive deformation even during a crimping process. The cap gasket includes: a first gasket and a second gasket fastened to the axially outer side of the first gasket. The first gasket includes: a first radial extension; an axial extension extending axially outward from the radially outer end of the first radial extension; and at least one first fastening portion disposed at the axially outer end of the axial extension. The second gasket includes: a second radial extension; and at least one second fastening portion disposed on the axially inner side of the radially outer end of the second radial extension and fastened to the first fastening portion in the axial direction. The first and second fastening portions include a first locking portion and a second locking portion respectively fastened to each other in the radial direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0165808 filed on November 24, 2023 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0139346 filed on October 14, 2024, the entire contents disclosed in the patent application documents of which are incorporated as part of this specification.

[0002] This invention relates to a cap gasket for a cylindrical secondary battery and a cylindrical secondary battery using the cap gasket, and more specifically, to a cap gasket that can maintain sealing force without excessive deformation even during crimping and a cylindrical secondary battery using the cap gasket. Background Technology

[0003] The process of manufacturing battery cells using cylindrical cans includes the following steps: deep drawing a metal sheet to form a circular base portion and a circular tubular sidewall connected thereto; housing an electrode assembly therein; and then covering the open ends of the sidewall components with a cap.

[0004] A typical method of covering and sealing the open end of a sidewall member with a cap is to form a rolled edge on the sidewall member, insert a cap washer into the axial outer surface of the rolled edge, and form a crimped portion of the edge of the cap.

[0005] refer to Figure 1 The conventional cap gasket 17 includes an inner radial extension 172 arranged on the inner side, an axial extension 173 extending axially outward from the inner radial extension 172, and a deformable seal 179 extending axially from the outer axial end of the axial extension 173 and bending radially inward through the crimping portion.

[0006] When the edge of the cap 16 is positioned to contact the inner radial extension 172 and the axial extension 173, and the cap gasket 17 and the cap 16 are inserted into the rolled edge 116 provided at the open end of the can, the edge of the can is pressed radially inward to form a press-fit portion 117.

[0007] As a result, Figure 2 As shown, the inner surface of the cap washer 17 presses against the axial outer surface, the radial outer surface and the axial inner surface of the edge of the cap 16, and the outer surface of the cap washer 17 presses against the axial inner surface of the pressing part 117 and the axial outer surface of the rolled edge 116, thereby sealing the opening end of the can.

[0008] However, in a conventional cap gasket 17, when the deformable seal 179 is bent radially inward by the crimping process due to its structure, the inner radial end A of the boundary between the axial extension 173 and the deformable seal 179 is greatly compressed because the deformable seal 179 contacts the axial outer surface and the corner of the axial outer surface located at the upper end of the edge of the cap 16, and the outer circumference B of the deformable seal 179 adjacent to the boundary between the axial extension 173 and the deformable seal 179 cannot avoid being greatly stretched in the axial direction.

[0009] When the inner end A bends to the limit described above, such as Figure 2 As shown, the upper corner of the edge of the cap 16 and the cap gasket 17 may not touch each other and may float.

[0010] Furthermore, during the plasticizing process of the can's crimped portion 117, the upper corner of the edge of the cap 16 may strongly scrape against the inner wall of the cap gasket 17, causing the coating material applied to the cap gasket 17 for sealing to peel off, thereby weakening the sealing force.

[0011] Furthermore, when the outer circumference B of the deformable seal 179 is in Figure 2 When excessively stretched in the direction of the arrow shown, the outer peripheral surface of the cap washer 17 may not be in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the crimping portion 117, and may float, as... Figure 2 As shown.

[0012] Damage to the coating material, the gap between the cap gasket 17 and the cap 16, or the gap between the cap gasket 17 and the can may become a leakage path for the electrolyte. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Technical issues

[0014] To address the aforementioned problems, the present invention aims to provide a cap gasket structure and a cylindrical secondary battery structure employing the cap gasket structure. This cap gasket structure and cylindrical secondary battery structure prevent the coating material of the cap gasket from being scratched by the cap during a crimping process performed at the open end of the can's side wall component to seal the can's open end with the cap.

[0015] One object of the present invention is to provide a cap gasket structure and a cylindrical secondary battery structure employing the cap gasket structure, which can prevent the cap gasket from being lifted from the surface of the cap or can due to excessive stretching or compression during the pressing process.

[0016] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is not limited to the above-described objectives, and other objectives and advantages of the invention not described herein may be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through examples of the invention. Furthermore, it will be apparent that the objectives and advantages of the invention can be specifically realized through the means and combinations thereof indicated in the claims.

[0017] Technical solution

[0018] This invention can be applied to battery cells that include electrode assemblies and a housing containing the electrode assemblies.

[0019] The electrode assembly can be in the form of a wound core, wherein a first electrode and a second electrode are laminated with a diaphragm sandwiched between them and wound around a predetermined core axis.

[0020] The current collector of the first electrode can protrude axially outward, thereby exposing its surface. The current collector of the second electrode can also protrude axially outward, thereby exposing its surface.

[0021] The current collectors of the first electrode and the second electrode can protrude axially outward from the first axial end and the second axial end, respectively.

[0022] The portion of the current collector exposed outward from the axial end of the electrode assembly can form the electrode tab of the corresponding electrode.

[0023] The electrode tabs can be bent in the radial direction. Preferably, the electrode tabs can be bent radially inward and can overlap axially.

[0024] The electrode tab of the first electrode can be electrically connected to the first electrode terminal disposed in the housing, and the electrode tab of the second electrode can be electrically connected to the second electrode terminal disposed in the housing.

[0025] The electrode tab of the first electrode can be coupled to the first current collector, and the first current collector can be coupled to the first electrode terminal. The first current collector can electrically connect the first electrode to the first electrode terminal.

[0026] The electrode tabs of the second electrode can be coupled to the second current collector, and the second current collector can be electrically connected to the second electrode terminals. The second current collector can electrically connect the second electrode to the second electrode terminals.

[0027] The shell can be a can made of metal.

[0028] The shell can be cylindrical.

[0029] The tank may include a sidewall member extending in an axial direction and surrounding an internal space extending in an axial direction, and an open end disposed at one axial end of the sidewall member.

[0030] A battery cell may include a cap that covers the open end.

[0031] The bottom member can be connected to the other axial end of the sidewall member, so the other axial end of the sidewall member can be a closed end.

[0032] The first electrode terminal can be mounted on the bottom component, with a washer inserted therebetween. The washer seals the gap between the first electrode terminal and the bottom component and electrically insulates the first electrode terminal from the bottom component.

[0033] The second electrode terminal can be formed by the bottom component.

[0034] The cap can be secured to the side wall component of the can by compressing its edge against the rolled edge and crimped portion located at the open end of the can.

[0035] The cap gasket can be inserted between the edge of the cap and the side wall components.

[0036] The edge of the cap can be clamped by the cap gasket being pressed by the rolled edge and the crimping part, thereby sealing the connection between the cap and the can.

[0037] To address the aforementioned problems, the present invention provides an annular cap washer comprising a first washer and a second washer fastened to the first washer on the axially outer side of the first washer.

[0038] The ring shape may include a circular ring shape.

[0039] The ring shape can be a closed ring.

[0040] The first washer includes: a first radially extending portion; and an axially extending portion extending axially outward from the outer radial end of the first radially extending portion.

[0041] The second washer includes a radially extending second radial extension.

[0042] The second washer is stacked on top of the first washer in the axial direction on the outer side of the first washer.

[0043] The first washer includes a first fastening part disposed at the outer axial end of the axial extension. One, two, or more first fastening parts may be provided.

[0044] The second washer includes a second fastening portion disposed on the axially inner side of the outer radial end of the second radial extension and fastened in the axial direction to one or more first fastening portions. Two or more first fastening portions and two or more second fastening portions may be fastened to each other in the axial direction respectively.

[0045] Therefore, when the cap gasket is compressed and deformed by forming the crimp portion of the can, the direction of the cap gasket deformation corresponds to the direction in which adhesion should occur between the cap gasket and the can, and also to the direction in which adhesion should occur between the cap gasket and the cap. Therefore, by minimizing the deformation of the cap gasket, which is independent of the sealing force, the sealing performance of the cap gasket can be further improved.

[0046] The first fastening portion and the second fastening portion fastened thereto may be radially spaced apart from the inner radial end and the outer radial end of the axial extension. At least one pair of first fastening portions and one pair of second fastening portions may be radially spaced apart from the inner radial end and the outer radial end of the axial extension therebetween.

[0047] The first fastening part and the second fastening part fastened thereto may be provided at a radial position corresponding to the inner radial end of the axial extension. At least one pair of first fastening parts and one pair of second fastening parts may be provided at a radial position corresponding to the inner radial end of the axial extension.

[0048] The first fastening part and the second fastening part fastened thereto can be provided at a radial position corresponding to the outer radial end of the axial extension. At least one pair of first fastening parts and one pair of second fastening parts can be provided at a radial position corresponding to the outer radial end of the axial extension.

[0049] The first fastening part and the second fastening part fastened thereto can extend along the circumferential direction of the first washer and the second washer, respectively.

[0050] Preferably, each of the pair of first fasteners and the pair of second fasteners may have a ring shape. The ring shape may be a closed ring.

[0051] Preferably, a plurality of first fasteners may be arranged in a radial direction, and a plurality of second fasteners may be arranged in a radial direction to correspond to the plurality of first fasteners.

[0052] Preferably, at least two first fasteners can be arranged to be connected in the radial direction, and at least two second fasteners corresponding to the at least two first fasteners can be arranged to be connected in the radial direction.

[0053] In one embodiment, one of the first fastening part and the second fastening part may be provided with a fastening groove recessed in the axial direction and a fastening protrusion extending in the axial direction to be inserted into the fastening groove in the axial direction, respectively.

[0054] For example, the first fastening portion may include a fastening groove recessed axially inward from the outer axial surface, and the second fastening portion may include a fastening protrusion protruding axially inward from the outer radial end of the second radial extension.

[0055] For example, the first fastening portion may include a fastening protrusion that protrudes axially outward from the axial outer surface of the axial extension portion, and the second fastening portion may include a fastening groove that is recessed axially outward from the axial inner surface of the outer radial end of the second radial extension portion.

[0056] One of the multiple first fastening parts and another of the first fastening parts may be provided with a fastening groove and a fastening protrusion, respectively. And one of the multiple second fastening parts corresponding to one of the first fastening parts and another of the first fastening parts may be provided with a fastening groove and a fastening protrusion, respectively.

[0057] Preferably, a first fastening part and another first fastening part can be arranged to be connected in the radial direction, and a second fastening part and another second fastening part corresponding to a first fastening part and another first fastening part can be arranged to be connected in the radial direction.

[0058] Therefore, due to the pressure applied axially inward by the inwardly bent portion formed during the crimping process to the second radial extension of the second washer, the fastening protrusion receives a stronger insertion force into the fastening groove in the axial direction, thereby ensuring a higher fastening force. Thus, the second washer can be more reliably prevented from being radially pushed inward by the inwardly bent portion formed during the crimping process.

[0059] In one embodiment, the fastening protrusion may be provided with a hook that protrudes radially from its extended end, and the fastening groove corresponding to the fastening protrusion may be provided with a hook groove that is radially recessed at its recessed end to accommodate the hook in the radial direction.

[0060] Preferably, the hook may be provided on one or both of the radial inner and radial outer sides of the fastening protrusion, and the hook groove may be provided on one or both of the radial inner and radial outer sides of the fastening groove to correspond to the hook.

[0061] Therefore, even before the crimping process, the first and second washers can be more reliably constrained in the axial direction by the engagement structure of the hook and groove, thereby temporarily integrating the first and second washers.

[0062] In one embodiment, the radial inner surface of the axial extension of the first washer may be provided with a first radial outer surface facing the radial outer surface of the cap in the radial direction, and the axial inner surface of the second radial extension of the second washer may be provided with a first axial inner surface facing the edge of the axial outer surface of the cap in the axial direction.

[0063] Preferably, the radial inner surface of the axial extension of the first washer may also be provided with a second radial outer surface, which extends axially outward more than the radial outer surface of the cap.

[0064] Therefore, since the first washer can protrude axially beyond the axial outer surface of the cap, the second washer can be prevented from being radially pushed inward by the protruding portion of the first washer during the crimping process.

[0065] Preferably, the axial inner surface of the second radial extension of the second washer may also be provided with a second axial inner surface, which extends axially outward more than the radial outer surface of the cap.

[0066] Therefore, since the cap gasket area corresponding to the corners of the radial and axial outer surfaces of the cap can be prevented from being excessively folded and compressed during the crimping process, the sealing force of the cap gasket can be prevented from decreasing.

[0067] In one embodiment, the second corner located on the outer radial end of the second radial extension at the axially outer side may be rounded.

[0068] Therefore, excessive deformation or deformation in an unintended direction can be prevented from the second corner by the inward bending portion. In addition, the axial and radial compressive forces generated by the inward bending portion can be uniformly applied to the second corner region, so that the compressive force generated by the inward bending portion can be fully applied to increase the tightening force of the first and second washers and improve the sealing force of the cap washer.

[0069] In one embodiment, the first corner located on the axially inner side of the outer radial end of the first radial extension may be rounded.

[0070] Therefore, when the first gasket is placed on the axial outer surface of the rolled edge, the outer surface of the first gasket can naturally contact the inner wall of the can.

[0071] Preferably, by setting the radius of the second corner to be smaller than that of the first corner, the compressive force at the second corner and the fastening force of the first and second washers can be stably fixed.

[0072] In addition, to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a battery cell using the above-mentioned cap gasket.

[0073] The battery cell can be a cylindrical secondary battery.

[0074] The battery cell includes a can with a sidewall member having an open end.

[0075] A rolled edge is provided by radially inwardly recessing the sidewall member near the opening end.

[0076] The sidewall member also includes a crimp portion which is axially outwardly positioned than the rolled edge and is formed by radially inwardly bending the end of the sidewall member.

[0077] The battery cell is equipped with a cap that seals the open end.

[0078] The edge of the cap is positioned axially between the rolled edge and the crimped part to be compressed and fixed.

[0079] The edge of the cap, with the cap gasket sandwiched between it, is compressed and secured by the rolled edge and the crimped part.

[0080] The first washer is disposed on the axial outer surface of the rolled edge.

[0081] The axial inner surface of the second radial extension contacts the axial outer surface of the axial extension in the axial direction, and the second fastening part of the second washer is fastened to the first fastening part of the first washer in the axial direction.

[0082] The edge of the cap contacts the axial outer surface of the first radial extension of the first washer, the radial inner surface of the axial extension, and the axial inner surface of the second radial extension of the second washer.

[0083] Preferably, the outer axial corner of the edge of the cap can be aligned with the contact portion of the axial extension of the first washer and the radial inner corner of the second radial extension of the second washer.

[0084] Therefore, it can prevent and suppress the phenomenon of the edge of the cap rubbing against the cap gasket.

[0085] Preferably, the inwardly bent portion of the crimping part can be located on the axial exterior of the mating surfaces of the first washer and the second washer.

[0086] Preferably, the inwardly bent portion of the crimping part can be located on the radially outer side of the cap.

[0087] Therefore, the axial and radial compressive forces generated by the inward bending portion can be uniformly applied to the second corner region, so that the compressive force generated by the inward bending portion can be fully applied to increase the fastening force of the first and second washers and improve the sealing force of the cap washer.

[0088] Beneficial effects

[0089] According to the present invention, in order to prevent excessive deformation of the cap gasket during the crimping process performed at the open end of the can sidewall member to seal the open end of the can with the cap, the cap gasket is provided with a first radial extension, an axial extension, and a second radial extension. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the cap gasket from being excessively compressed or stretched at a specific point by the crimping process, thereby preventing the cap gasket from peeling off from the surface of the cap or can.

[0090] According to the present invention, the cap gasket is manufactured separately as a first gasket and a second gasket, and the second gasket is provided with a second radial extension, thereby facilitating the cap assembly process.

[0091] According to the present invention, since the contact areas of the axial outer corner of the cap edge and the radial inner corner of the axial extension of the first washer and the radial inner corner of the second radial extension of the second washer are aligned, the portion of the cap washer that contacts the corner of the cap will not move relative to the corner during the processing of the crimping portion. Therefore, the coating material of the cap washer can be prevented from being scratched by the cap.

[0092] In addition to the aforementioned beneficial effects, the specific effects of the present invention will be further described while describing the specific details of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0093] Figure 1 This is a partial sectional perspective view of a standard cap gasket.

[0094] Figure 2 This shows a method of sealing and securing with rolled edges and crimped joints. Figure 1 A cross-sectional image of the cap washer.

[0095] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the cap washer according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A side sectional view of the cap washer.

[0097] Figure 5 It shows the part placed on the open end of the can. Figure 3 Side sectional view of the cap gasket and the cap.

[0098] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An enlarged view of the box section.

[0099] Figure 7 This shows the result after crimping. Figure 6 The jar.

[0100] Figure 8 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cap washer according to the second embodiment.

[0101] Figure 9 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cap washer according to the third embodiment.

[0102] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An enlarged view of the fastening part of the cap washer during the fastening process.

[0103] Figure 11 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cap washer according to the fourth embodiment.

[0104] Figure 12 Is Figure 11 An enlarged view of the fastening part during the fastening process of the cap washer.

[0105] Figure 13 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cap washer according to the fifth embodiment.

[0106] Figure 14 Is Figure 13 An enlarged view of the fastening part during the fastening process of the cap washer.

[0107] Figure 15 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cap washer according to the sixth embodiment.

[0108] Figure 16 Is Figure 15 An enlarged view of the fastening part during the fastening process of the cap washer.

[0109] Figure 17 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cap washer according to the seventh embodiment.

[0110] Figure 18 Is Figure 17 An enlarged view of the fastening part during the fastening process of the cap washer.

[0111] Figure 19 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cap washer according to the eighth embodiment.

[0112] Figure 20 Is Figure 19 An enlarged view of the fastening part during the fastening process of the cap washer.

[0113] Figure 21 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cap washer according to the ninth embodiment.

[0114] Figure 22 Is Figure 21 An enlarged view of the fastening part during the fastening process of the cap washer.

[0115] Figure 23 This is a side sectional view showing a battery cell employing a cap gasket according to the first embodiment.

[0116] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0117] 10: Tank (shell)

[0118] 11: Sidewall components

[0119] 116: Curled edge

[0120] 1161: Axial outer surface

[0121] 117: Crimping section

[0122] 1171: Inwardly curved section

[0123] 12: Bottom components

[0124] 13: First electrode terminal (negative terminal)

[0125] 14: Washers

[0126] 15: Second electrode terminal

[0127] 16: Hat

[0128] 161: Radial outer surface

[0129] 162: Axial inner surface

[0130] 163: Axial outer surface

[0131] 17: Hat Washer

[0132] 171: First washer (inner washer)

[0133] 172: First radial extension (inner radial extension)

[0134] 1722: Axial outer surface

[0135] C1: First corner

[0136] 173: Axial extension

[0137] 1730: Radial inner surface

[0138] 1731: First radial outer surface

[0139] 1732: Second radial outer surface

[0140] 174: First fastening part (fastening groove, fastening protrusion)

[0141] 1741: First hook section (hook groove, hook)

[0142] 175: Second washer (outer washer)

[0143] 176: Second radial extension (outer radial extension)

[0144] 1760: Axial inner surface

[0145] 1761: First axial inner surface

[0146] 1762: Second axial inner surface

[0147] C2: Second corner

[0148] 177: Second fastening part (fastening protrusion, fastening groove)

[0149] 1771: Second hook section (hook, hook groove)

[0150] 178: Fastening guide

[0151] 179: Deformation seal

[0152] 19: Insulator

[0153] 20: Electrode assembly

[0154] 21: First electrode

[0155] 22: Second electrode

[0156] 27: Electrode tabs

[0157] 29: Core cavity

[0158] 31: First current collector (negative current collector)

[0159] 32: Second current collector (positive current collector) Detailed Implementation

[0160] The above-described objects, features, and advantages will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, enabling those skilled in the art to implement the technical concept of the present invention. In describing the present invention, detailed descriptions of prior art related to the present invention will be omitted where it is determined that such detailed descriptions unnecessarily obscure the spirit of the invention. In the following, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar parts.

[0161] Although terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various elements, these elements are certainly not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another, and unless otherwise specified, the first element may also be the second element.

[0162] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0163] In the following text, "arranging a component at the upper (or lower) part of a component" or "arranging a component at the top (or bottom) of a component" means not only "arranging the component to contact the upper (or lower) surface," but also "arranging the component above the upper (or lower) surface with another component inserted between it."

[0164] Additionally, when an element is described as being “connected to,” “linked to,” or “in contact with” another element, it should be understood that the element may be “directly connected to,” “directly linked to,” or “in contact with” another element, or that the element may be “connected to,” “linked to,” or “in contact with” another element, wherein another element is inserted therein or via another element.

[0165] Unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms used herein include the plural forms. Terms such as “consisting of” or “comprising” as used herein should not be construed as including all elements or steps described in the specification, and should be construed as excluding some elements or steps, or including additional elements or steps.

[0166] Throughout this instruction manual, unless otherwise specified, “A and / or B” means A, B or A and B, and unless otherwise specified, “C to D” means greater than or equal to C and less than or equal to D.

[0167] In the description of the embodiments, "axial direction" refers to "the direction in which the axis constituting the winding center of the wound electrode assembly extends," and "radial direction" refers to "the direction toward (centripetal) or away from (eccentric) the axis," and "circumferential direction" refers to "the direction around the axis."

[0168] The battery cell using the cap gasket 17 according to the embodiment can be, for example, a cylindrical battery cell having a shape factor ratio greater than about 0.4 (defined as the diameter of a cylindrical battery cell divided by its height, i.e., the ratio of diameter to height).

[0169] Here, the form factor refers to the values ​​representing the diameter and height of a cylindrical battery cell. A cylindrical battery cell can be, for example, a 46110 cell, a 48750 cell, a 48110 cell, a 48800 cell, or a 46800 cell. In the form factor value, the first two digits represent the cell's diameter, the next two digits represent the cell's height, and the last digit, 0, indicates that the cell's cross-section is circular.

[0170] The battery cell can be an approximately cylindrical cell with a diameter of approximately 46 mm, a height of approximately 110 mm, and a form factor ratio of 0.418.

[0171] According to another embodiment, the battery cell can be a generally cylindrical cell with a diameter of approximately 48 mm, a height of approximately 75 mm, and a form factor ratio of 0.640.

[0172] According to another embodiment, the battery cell can be a generally cylindrical cell with a diameter of approximately 48 mm, a height of approximately 110 mm, and a form factor ratio of 0.418.

[0173] According to another embodiment, the battery cell can be a generally cylindrical cell with a diameter of approximately 48 mm, a height of approximately 80 mm, and a form factor ratio of 0.600.

[0174] According to another embodiment, the battery cell can be a generally cylindrical cell with a diameter of approximately 46 mm, a height of approximately 80 mm, and a form factor ratio of 0.575.

[0175] This invention is obviously applicable to battery cells with a form factor ratio of approximately 0.4 or less, such as 18650 cells, 21700 cells, etc. For an 18650 cell, the diameter is approximately 18 mm, the height is approximately 65 mm, and the form factor ratio is 0.277. For a 21700 cell, the diameter is approximately 21 mm, the height is approximately 70 mm, and the form factor ratio is 0.300.

[0176] [Hood pad]

[0177] <First Implementation Method>

[0178] refer to Figures 3 to 6 According to the first embodiment, the cap washer 17 includes a first washer 171 and a second washer 175 connected to the first washer 171 on the axial outer side of the first washer.

[0179] The second washer 175 is manufactured in a pre-deformed form, which is the part that would undergo excessive deformation when forming a conventional crimped part.

[0180] Preferably, a second washer 175 is manufactured separately to facilitate the assembly process of the cap and the cap washer.

[0181] The first washer 171 includes a first radial extension 172 extending in the radial direction. The first radial extension 172 may include a portion inserted between the crimp 116 of the can 10 and the axial inner surface of the cap 16.

[0182] The first washer 171 includes an axial extension 173 extending axially outward from the outer radial end of the first radial extension 172. The axial extension 173 may include a portion of the sidewall member 11 positioned between the crimped edge 116 and the crimped portion 117 of the can 10 and the radial outer surface 161 of the cap 16.

[0183] The second washer 175 includes a second radial extension 176 extending in the radial direction. The second radial extension 176 may include a portion inserted between the crimp portion 117 of the can 10 and the axial outer surface of the cap 16.

[0184] The outer radial end of the second radial extension 176 is in contact with or connected to the outer axial end of the axial extension 173.

[0185] For ease of assembly, the first washer 171 and the second washer 175 are manufactured separately. However, in order to securely connect the first washer 171 and the second washer 175, a first fastening part 174 is provided on the axial outer surface of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171, and a second fastening part 177 is provided on the axial inner side of the outer radial end of the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175.

[0186] According to the first embodiment, the cap washer 17 is implemented in the form of having a first fastening part 174 and a second fastening part 177.

[0187] The first fastening part 174 and the second fastening part 177 fastened thereto are disposed between the inner radial end and the outer radial end of the axial extension 173 and are radially spaced apart from the inner radial end and the outer radial end.

[0188] The first fastening part 174 and the second fastening part 177 are fastened to each other in the axial direction.

[0189] Therefore, the first fastening part 174 and the second fastening part 177 restrict the radial movement of the second washer 175 relative to the first washer 171.

[0190] In the first embodiment, the first fastening portion 174 includes a fastening groove that is recessed axially inward from the axial outer surface of the axial extension portion 173. Furthermore, the second fastening portion 177 includes a fastening protrusion that protrudes axially inward from the outer radial end of the second radial extension portion 176.

[0191] In the first embodiment, the fastening protrusion of the second fastening part 177 and the fastening groove of the first fastening part 174 are arranged continuously in a closed ring along the circumferential direction.

[0192] The first corner C1, located on the axially inner side of the outer radial end of the first radial extension 172, is rounded. As a result, as... Figure 6 As shown, when the first washer 171 is placed on the rolled edge 116, the outer surface of the first washer 171 is in full contact with the inner surface of the rolled edge 116, so that the first washer 171 is placed in the correct position.

[0193] refer to Figures 5 to 7 The sealing structure of the can 10 using the cap gasket 17 will be described.

[0194] When sealing the open end of the battery can 10, the cap washer 17 is inserted between the cap 16 and the can 10.

[0195] The tank 10 has a hollow cylindrical sidewall component 11.

[0196] Near the open end of the sidewall member 11, a rolled edge 116 is provided by making the sidewall member 11 radially recessed inward. Thus, the rolled edge 116 has an axially outer surface 1161 on the radially inner side of the sidewall member 11.

[0197] The first washer 171 is inserted so that it is placed on the axial outer surface 1161 of the crimp 116.

[0198] The first corner C1 of the first washer 171 is rounded so that it has a shape that corresponds to the curved surface shape of the connection portion between the sidewall member 11 and the rolled edge 116 to a certain extent. Therefore, the first radial extension 172 can face and contact the axial outer surface 1161 in the axial direction, and the axial extension 173 can face and contact the inner circumferential surface of the sidewall member 11 in the radial direction.

[0199] The edge of the cap 16 rests on the first washer 171, which rests on the axial outer surface 1161 of the rolled edge 116 within the sidewall member 11. When the cap 16 is placed, the bottom surface of the cap 16 contacts the axial outer surface of the first radial extension 172, and the outer peripheral surface of the cap 16 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the axial extension 173. Therefore, the position of the cap 16 relative to the first washer 171 can be aligned.

[0200] The upper surface of the edge of the cap 16 (i.e., the axial outer surface) and the upper surface of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171 (i.e., the axial outer surface) can form a generally flat surface.

[0201] The second washer 175 is placed on the upper surface of the edge of the cap 16 and on the upper surface of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171. Therefore, the lower surface of the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 (i.e., the first axial inner surface disposed on the radially inner side of the axial inner surface) contacts the cap 16, and the second axial inner surface disposed on the radially outer side contacts the first washer 171.

[0202] Furthermore, the outer axial corner of the edge of the cap 16 (i.e., the corner of the outer radial surface and the outer axial surface of the cap 16) is aligned with the contact portion of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171 and the inner radial corner of the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 (see [reference]). Figure 7 Part A).

[0203] According to the first embodiment, the radial inner surface of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171 includes a first radial outer surface facing the radial outer surface of the cap 16 in the radial direction, and the axial inner surface of the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 includes: a first axial inner surface facing the edge of the axial outer surface of the cap 16 in the axial direction; and a second axial inner surface extending axially outward beyond the radial outer surface of the cap 16.

[0204] The second fastening portion 177 of the second washer 175 and the first fastening portion 174 of the first washer 171 are inserted axially and fastened to each other. Therefore, it is possible to align the second washer 175 with respect to the first washer 171 and the cap 16, and in particular, the radial movement of the second washer 175 with respect to the first washer 171 and the cap 16 is restricted.

[0205] As described above, before the crimping portion 117 is formed, the second radial extension 176 of the cap washer 17 has already contacted the edge surface (i.e., the axial outer surface) of the cap 16 in a radially inwardly curved manner (see [reference]). Figure 6 ).

[0206] Subsequently, as Figure 7 As shown, the end of the sidewall member 11 that is axially outward compared to the rolled edge 116 is radially inwardly bent to form a crimp portion 117. The crimp portion 117 is formed by radially inwardly plastically processing the open end section of the sidewall member 11, which is located axially outward of the edge of the cap 16.

[0207] The crimping portion 117 is a plastically processed portion, having a shape that is radially inwardly bent through the inwardly bent portion 1171 of the sidewall member 11, and the inwardly bent portion 1171 and the crimping portion 117 press the first radial extension 172 and the second radial extension 176 together in the axial direction. The curved surface portion at the boundary between the rolled edge 116 and the sidewall member 11 presses the first radial extension 172 axially outward and radially inward, and the curved surface portion of the inwardly bent portion 1171 (at...) Figure 7 The middle indicator is B) Press the second radial extension 176 axially and radially inward.

[0208] Therefore, the axial extension 173 of the cap washer 17 is compressed in the radial direction, and the first radial extension and the second radial extension of the cap washer 17 are compressed in the axial direction.

[0209] According to the first embodiment described above, the inwardly bent portion 1171 formed during the crimping process further presses axially inwardly the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175, located behind the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177. Therefore, the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 receives a stronger insertion force into the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 in the axial direction. Thus, the radial position of the second washer 175 can be more effectively controlled by the fastening structure.

[0210] Furthermore, even when pressure is applied radially inward to the second washer 175 through the inwardly bent portion 1171, the radial movement of the radially lower outer portion of the second washer 175 is reliably limited by the fastening structure.

[0211] <Second Implementation Method>

[0212] exist Figure 8 The present invention discloses a structure having a circular second corner portion C2 disposed on the outer side of the outer radial end of the second radial extension portion 176, which is a second embodiment as a variant of the cap washer 17 of the first embodiment described above.

[0213] Preferably, the fillet radius of the second corner C2 can be set to be smaller than the fillet radius of the first corner C1.

[0214] According to the second embodiment, the second corner C2 of the second washer 175 is uniformly pressed against and firmly contacts the inwardly bent portion 1171. Therefore, the inwardly bent portion 1171 does not cause excessive deformation or deformation in an unintended direction to the second corner C2, and the axial and radial compressive forces generated by the inwardly bent portion 1171 are uniformly applied to the area of ​​the second corner C2. As a result, the compressive force of the inwardly bent portion 1171 increases the fastening force between the first washer 171 and the second washer 175, and further enhances the sealing force of the cap washer 17.

[0215] <Third Implementation Method>

[0216] exist Figure 9 and Figure 10 The present invention discloses a third embodiment of a cap washer 17 as a variation of the cap washer 17 of the first embodiment described above. In this embodiment, the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 is provided with a hook, which is a second hook portion 1771 protruding in the radial direction from the extended end of the fastening protrusion. The fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 is provided with a hook groove, which is a first hook portion 1741 recessed in the radial direction at the recessed end of the fastening groove.

[0217] The hook of the second hook portion 1771 is disposed on the radially outer side of the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177, and the hook groove of the first hook portion 1741 is disposed on the radially outer side of the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174, thereby corresponding to the hook of the second hook portion 1771.

[0218] refer to Figure 10 First, the cap 16 is inserted into the first washer 171. Therefore, the axial outer surface 1722 of the first radial extension 172 of the first washer 171 contacts the axial inner surface 162 of the cap 16, and the first radial outer surface 1731 of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171 contacts the radial outer surface 161 of the cap 16.

[0219] The axial inner surface 1760 of the second washer 175 includes a first axial inner surface 1761 that contacts the axial outer surface 163 of the cap 16 and a second axial inner surface 1762 that extends radially outward from the cap 16.

[0220] The fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 of the first washer 171 is configured to be radially spaced inward from the outer radial end of the axial extension 173. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the portion of the axial extension 173 located radially inside the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 is supported radially outward by the cap 16, while the portion of the axial extension 173 located radially outward than the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 does not have a support member.

[0221] Therefore, during the temporary assembly of the cap washer 17 and the cap 16 by inserting the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 of the second washer 175 into the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 of the first washer 171 in the axial direction, when the hook of the second hook portion 1771 presses radially outward against the portion of the axial extension 173 that is radially outward compared to the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174, this portion is easily elastically deformed, so that the hook of the second hook portion 1771 can be easily inserted into the hook groove of the first hook portion 1741.

[0222] Fastening guides 178 are provided in the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 to cause mutual alignment during the insertion process. The fastening guides 178 may have a chamfered shape provided at the extended end of the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and / or near the entrance of the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174.

[0223] After the hook of the second hook portion 1771 is inserted into the hook groove of the first hook portion 1741, the second washer 175 and the first washer 171 are fastened together by the hook of the second hook portion 1771 and the hook groove of the first hook portion 1741 to prevent them from separating from each other in the axial direction. Additionally, the sidewall member 11 radially supports the axially outer peripheral surface of the first washer 171 during the process of inserting the cap 16 and the cap washer 17 into the can 10 (see...). Figure 6 Therefore, the fastening between the hook of the second hook portion 1771 and the hook groove of the first hook portion 1741 is strengthened. Furthermore, in the process of bending the inward sidewall member 11 (see...), Figure 7 The second washer 175 is more securely fastened to the first washer 171 by means of a groove and a hook, the groove and the hook being the first hook portion 1741 and the second hook portion 1771.

[0224] <Fourth Implementation Method>

[0225] exist Figure 11 and Figure 12 The fourth embodiment of the cap washer 17 is disclosed. In contrast to the third embodiment, in the cap washer 17 according to the fourth embodiment, the first fastening portion 174 of the first washer 171 and the second fastening portion 177 of the second washer 175 are provided at a position corresponding to the outer radial end of the axial extension portion 173.

[0226] The first fastening portion 174 includes a fastening groove recessed in the axial direction, and the second fastening portion 177 includes a fastening protrusion protruding in the axial direction. The fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 includes a hook as a second hook portion 1771 protruding radially inward from its extension end, and the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 includes a hook groove as a first hook portion 1741 recessed radially inward.

[0227] The portion of the axial extension 173 located radially inside the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 is supported radially outward by the cap 16. Meanwhile, the portion of the axial extension 173 located radially outside the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 is not supported by any component.

[0228] Therefore, during the temporary assembly of the cap washer 17 and the cap 16 by inserting the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 of the second washer 175 into the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 of the first washer 171 in the axial direction, when the hook of the second hook portion 1771 presses the portion of the axial extension 173 located radially inside the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174, the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 easily deforms radially outward due to the reaction force, so that the hook of the second hook portion 1771 can be easily inserted into the hook groove of the first hook portion 1741.

[0229] Fastening guides 178 are provided in the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 to cause mutual alignment during the insertion process. The fastening guides 178 may have a chamfered shape provided at the extended end of the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and / or near the entrance of the fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174.

[0230] After the hook of the second hook portion 1771 is inserted into the hook groove of the first hook portion 1741, the second washer 175 and the first washer 171 are fastened together by the hook of the second hook portion 1771 and the hook groove of the first hook portion 1741, thereby preventing them from separating from each other in the axial direction. Furthermore, during the process of inserting the cap 16 and the cap washer 17 into the can 10, the sidewall member 11 radially inwardly supports the outer peripheral surface of the fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 (see...). Figure 6 Therefore, the fastening between the hook of the second hook portion 1771 and the hook groove of the first hook portion 1741 is strengthened. Furthermore, during the process of bending the sidewall member 11 inward (see...), Figure 7 The second washer 175 is more securely fastened to the first washer 171 by means of a groove and a hook, the groove and the hook being the first hook portion 1741 and the second hook portion 1771.

[0231] <Fifth Implementation Method>

[0232] exist Figure 13 and Figure 14 The fifth embodiment of the cap washer 17 is disclosed. According to the fifth embodiment, the cap washer 17 is provided with two first fastening portions 174 of a first washer 171 and two second fastening portions 177 of a second washer 175. The two first fastening portions 174 are arranged to be connected in a radial direction, and the two second fastening portions 177 are also arranged to be connected in a radial direction.

[0233] According to the fifth embodiment, the cap washer 17 is implemented such that each of the two first fastening portions 174 is provided with a first fastening protrusion arranged radially inward and a first fastening groove arranged radially outward, and each of the two second fastening portions 177 is provided with a second fastening groove arranged radially inward and a second fastening protrusion arranged radially outward. Furthermore, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 are inserted into each other in the axial direction.

[0234] The first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 are radially spaced apart from each other between the inner radial end and the outer radial end of the axial extension. In addition, the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 are arranged in the radial direction at positions corresponding to the outer radial end of the axial extension.

[0235] During the insertion process, a fastening guide 178 that causes mutual alignment is disposed in the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177, and in the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174. The fastening guide 178 may have a rounded shape disposed near the extended ends of the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and / or near the entrances of the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177.

[0236] During the temporary assembly of the cap washer 17 and the cap 16 by inserting two first fastening portions 174 and second fastening portions 177 in the axial direction, the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 of the second washer 175, which has a relatively small radial width, is easily deformed radially outward elastically, so that the first fastening portions 174 and the second fastening portions 177 can be easily fastened.

[0237] According to the fifth embodiment described above, the inwardly bent portion 1171 formed during the crimping process further presses axially inwardly the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175, located behind the second fastening groove and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177. As a result, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 receive a stronger insertion force in the axial direction into the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174. Therefore, the radial position of the second washer 175 can be more effectively controlled by the fastening structure.

[0238] Furthermore, even when pressure is applied radially inward to the second washer 175 through the inwardly bent portion 1171, the radial movement of the radially lower outer portion of the second washer 175 is reliably limited by the fastening structure.

[0239] <Sixth Implementation Method>

[0240] exist Figure 15 and Figure 16 The cap washer 17 according to the sixth embodiment is disclosed in the article.

[0241] According to the sixth embodiment, the radially inner surface 1730 of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171 includes: a first radially outer surface 1731 facing the radially outer surface 161 of the cap 16 in the radial direction; and a second radially outer surface 1732 extending axially outward more than the radially outer surface 161 of the cap 16, and the axially inner surface 1760 of the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 includes: a first axially inner surface 1761 facing the edge of the axially outer surface 163 of the cap 16 in the axial direction.

[0242] Therefore, when the cap 16 is temporarily fastened to the first washer 171, the upper surface of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171 protrudes further upward than the upper surface of the edge of the cap 16 (i.e., the axial outer surface 163).

[0243] The second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 is placed on the upper surface of the edge of the cap 16 and the upper surface of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171. Therefore, the first axial inner surface 1761 of the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 contacts the cap 16, and the corners of the radial outer surface 161 and the axial outer surface 163 of the cap 16 are aligned with the radial outer corners of the first radial outer surface 1731 of the second washer 175.

[0244] The fastening guide 178 is provided at the inner radial end of the upper portion of the axial extension 173 to guide the insertion of the second axial inner surface 1762 of the second washer 175.

[0245] According to the sixth embodiment, the cap washer 17 is provided with two first fastening portions 174 of a first washer 171 and two second fastening portions 177 of a second washer 175. The two first fastening portions 174 are arranged to be connected in the radial direction, and the two second fastening portions 177 are also arranged to be connected in the radial direction. Each of the two first fastening portions 174 is provided with a first fastening protrusion arranged on the radially inner side and a first fastening groove arranged on the radially outer side, and each of the two second fastening portions 177 is provided with a second fastening groove arranged on the radially inner side and a second fastening protrusion arranged on the radially outer side. In addition, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 are inserted into each other in the axial direction, and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 are inserted into each other in the axial direction.

[0246] The first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 are radially spaced apart from each other between the inner radial end and the outer radial end of the axial extension. In addition, the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 are arranged in the radial direction at positions corresponding to the outer radial end of the axial extension.

[0247] During the insertion process, a fastening guide 178 that causes mutual alignment is disposed in the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177, as well as in the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174. The fastening guide 178 may have a chamfered shape disposed near the extended ends of the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and / or near the entrances of the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177.

[0248] During the temporary assembly of the cap washer 17 and the cap 16 by inserting two first fastening portions 174 and second fastening portions 177 in the axial direction, the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 of the second washer 175, which has a relatively small radial width, is easily deformed radially outward elastically, so that the first fastening portions 174 and the second fastening portions 177 can be easily fastened.

[0249] According to the sixth embodiment described above, the inwardly bent portion 1171 formed during the crimping process further presses axially inwardly the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175, located behind the second fastening groove and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177. As a result, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 receive a stronger insertion force in the axial direction into the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174. Therefore, the radial position of the second washer 175 can be more strongly controlled by the fastening structure.

[0250] Furthermore, even when pressure is applied radially inward to the second washer 175 by the inwardly bent portion 1171, the radial movement of the radially lower outer portion of the second washer 175 is reliably limited by the fastening structure.

[0251] <Seventh Implementation Method>

[0252] exist Figure 17 and Figure 18 The seventh embodiment of the cap washer 17 is disclosed in the present invention.

[0253] According to the seventh embodiment, the radially inner surface 1730 of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171 includes: a first radially outer surface 1731 facing the radially outer surface 161 of the cap 16 in the radial direction; and a second radially outer surface 1732 extending axially outward more than the radially outer surface 161 of the cap 16, and the axially inner surface 1760 of the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 includes: a first axially inner surface 1761 facing the edge of the axially outer surface 163 of the cap 16 in the axial direction.

[0254] Therefore, when the cap 16 is temporarily fastened to the first washer 171, the upper surface of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171 protrudes further upward than the upper surface of the edge of the cap 16 (i.e., the axial outer surface 163).

[0255] The second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 is placed on the upper surface of the edge of the cap 16 and the upper surface of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171. Therefore, the first axial inner surface 1761 of the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 contacts the cap 16, and the corners of the radial outer surface 161 and the axial outer surface 163 of the cap 16 are aligned with the radial outer corners of the first radial outer surface 1731 of the second washer 175.

[0256] According to the seventh embodiment, the cap washer 17 is provided with two first fastening portions 174 of a first washer 171 and two second fastening portions 177 of a second washer 175. The two first fastening portions 174 are arranged to be connected in the radial direction, and the two second fastening portions 177 are also arranged to be connected in the radial direction. Each of the two first fastening portions 174 is provided with a first fastening protrusion arranged on the radially inner side and a first fastening groove arranged on the radially outer side, and each of the two second fastening portions 177 is provided with a second fastening groove arranged on the radially inner side and a second fastening protrusion arranged on the radially outer side. In addition, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 are inserted into each other in the axial direction, and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 are inserted into each other in the axial direction.

[0257] The first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 are arranged at positions corresponding to the inner radial end of the axial extension portion 173. In addition, the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 are arranged in the radial direction at positions corresponding to the outer radial end of the axial extension portion.

[0258] According to the seventh embodiment, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 includes a hook, which is a first hook portion 1741 that protrudes radially inward from its extended end, and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 includes a hook groove, which is a second hook portion 1771 that is recessed radially inward from its recessed end.

[0259] During the insertion process, a fastening guide 178 that causes mutual alignment is disposed in the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177, as well as in the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174. The fastening guide 178 may have a chamfered shape disposed near the extended ends of the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and / or near the entrances of the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177.

[0260] During the temporary assembly of the cap washer 17 and the cap 16 by inserting the two first fastening portions 174 and the second fastening portion 177 along the axial direction, the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 of the second washer 175, having a relatively small radial width, readily deforms radially outward elastically, allowing the first fastening portions 174 and the second fastening portion 177 to be easily fastened. Furthermore, since the fastening guide 178 extends radially outward from the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 of the first washer 171, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 readily deforms radially outward elastically, allowing the first fastening portions 174 and the second fastening portion 177 to be easily fastened.

[0261] The hook of the first hook 1741 strengthens the temporary fastening force of the first washer 171 and the second washer 175.

[0262] According to the seventh embodiment described above, the inwardly bent portion 1171 formed during the crimping process further presses axially inwardly the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175, located behind the second fastening groove and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177. As a result, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 receive a stronger insertion force in the axial direction into the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174. Therefore, the radial position of the second washer 175 can be more strongly controlled by the fastening structure.

[0263] Furthermore, due to the hook of the first hook portion 1741 of the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 of the first fastening portion 174 of the first washer 171, the radially outer corner of the first radially outer surface 1731 of the second washer 175 makes strong contact with the corner of the radially outer surface 161 and the axially outer surface 163 of the cap 16, thereby further enhancing the sealing force.

[0264] <Eighth Implementation Method>

[0265] exist Figure 19 and Figure 20 The eighth embodiment of the cap washer 17 is disclosed. This description will focus primarily on the differences from the seventh embodiment.

[0266] According to the eighth embodiment, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 includes a hook, which is a first hook portion 1741 that protrudes from the extension end of the first fastening portion in two radial directions respectively, and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 includes a hook groove, which is a second hook portion 1771 that is recessed from the recessed end of the second fastening portion in two radial directions respectively.

[0267] During the temporary assembly of the cap washer 17 and the cap 16 by inserting two first fastening portions 174 and second fastening portions 177 in the axial direction, the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 of the second washer 175 has a relatively small radial width, and in particular due to the hook groove of the second hook portion 1771, the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 has a small radial thickness. The second fastening protrusion is easy to elastically deform radially outward, so that the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening portion 177 can be easily fastened.

[0268] Furthermore, due to the extension of the fastening guide 178 on the radially inner side of the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 of the first washer 171 and the groove of the second hook portion 1771 on the radially inner side of the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177, the corner of the first axial inner surface 1761 of the second washer 175 can also easily deform radially inward elastically, so that the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening portion 177 can be easily fastened.

[0269] According to the eighth embodiment, the first hook portion 1741 of the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second hook portion 1771 of the corresponding second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 are provided on both radial sides, so that the temporary fastening force of the first washer 171 and the second washer 175 is further strengthened.

[0270] <Ninth Implementation Method>

[0271] exist Figure 21 and Figure 22 The cap washer 17 according to the ninth embodiment is disclosed in the article.

[0272] According to the first embodiment, the radially inner surface 1730 of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171 includes a first radially outer surface 1731 facing the radially outer surface 161 of the cap 16 in the radial direction, and the axially inner surface 1760 of the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 includes: a first axially inner surface 1761, which faces the edge of the axially outer surface of the cap 16 in the axial direction; and a second axially inner surface 1762, which extends axially outward beyond the radially outer surface 161 of the cap 16.

[0273] Therefore, when the cap 16 is temporarily fastened to the first washer 171, the upper surface of the axial outer surface 163 of the cap 16 and the inner radial end of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171 can form a generally flat surface. That is, the corners of the radial outer surface 161 and the axial outer surface 163 of the cap 16 are aligned with the corners of the first radial outer surface 1731 of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171.

[0274] The second washer 175 is placed on the upper surface of the edge of the cap 16 and on the upper surface of the axial extension 173 of the first washer 171. Therefore, the first axial inner surface 1761 of the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175 contacts the cap 16, and the second axial inner surface 1762 contacts the first washer 171.

[0275] According to the ninth embodiment, the cap washer 17 is provided with two first fastening portions 174 of a first washer 171 and two second fastening portions 177 of a second washer 175. The two first fastening portions 174 are arranged to be connected in the radial direction, and the two second fastening portions 177 are also arranged to be connected in the radial direction. Each of the two first fastening portions 174 is provided with a first fastening protrusion arranged on the radially inner side and a first fastening groove arranged on the radially outer side, and each of the two second fastening portions 177 is provided with a second fastening groove arranged on the radially inner side and a second fastening protrusion arranged on the radially outer side. In addition, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 are inserted into each other in the axial direction, and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 are inserted into each other in the axial direction.

[0276] The first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 are arranged at positions corresponding to the inner radial ends of the axial extension portion 173. Furthermore, the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 are arranged radially between the inner and outer radial ends of the axial extension portion 173, spaced apart from the inner and outer radial ends of the axial extension portion 173.

[0277] According to the ninth embodiment, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 includes a hook, which is a first hook portion 1741 that protrudes radially inward from its extended end, and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 includes a hook groove, which is a second hook portion 1771 that is recessed radially inward from its recessed end.

[0278] During the insertion process, the fastening guide 178 that causes mutual alignment is disposed in the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177, as well as in the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174. The fastening guide 178 may have an extension end disposed in the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 and / or a chamfered shape near the entrance of the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177.

[0279] During the temporary assembly of the cap washer 17 and the cap 16 by inserting two first fastening portions 174 and second fastening portions 177 in the axial direction, the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 of the second washer 175, which has a relatively small radial width, is easily deformed radially outward elastically, so that the first fastening portions 174 and the second fastening portions 177 can be easily fastened.

[0280] In addition, since the hook groove of the second hook portion 1771 is located radially inside the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177, the corner of the first axial inner surface 1761 of the second washer 175 can also easily deform radially inward, so that the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening portion 177 can be easily fastened.

[0281] According to the ninth embodiment described above, the inwardly bent portion 1171 formed during the crimping process further presses axially inwardly the second radial extension 176 of the second washer 175, located behind the second fastening groove and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177. As a result, the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 and the second fastening protrusion of the second fastening portion 177 receive a stronger insertion force in the axial direction into the second fastening groove of the second fastening portion 177 and the first fastening groove of the first fastening portion 174. Therefore, the radial position of the second washer 175 can be more effectively controlled by the fastening structure.

[0282] Furthermore, due to the hook of the first hook portion 1741 of the first fastening protrusion of the first fastening portion 174 of the first washer 171, the radially outer corner of the first radially outer surface 1731 of the second washer 175 makes strong contact with the corner of the radially outer surface 161 and the axially outer surface 163 of the cap 16, thereby further enhancing the sealing force.

[0283] [Battery Cells]

[0284] Figure 23 A battery cell employing a cap washer 17 according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0285] According to an embodiment, the battery cell includes an electrode assembly 20 and a housing 10 that houses the electrode assembly.

[0286] The electrode assembly 20 may be in the form of a wound core, wherein a first electrode 21 and a second electrode 22 are laminated together with a diaphragm and wound around a predetermined core axis. The electrode assembly 20 may have a cylindrical shape surrounding a core cavity 29. In this embodiment, the first electrode 21 is the negative electrode and the second electrode 22 is the positive electrode. However, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0287] refer to Figure 23 The current collector of the first electrode 21 can protrude outward from its first axial end to expose its surface, and the current collector of the second electrode 22 can also protrude axially outward to expose its surface. The portion of the current collector exposed outward from the axial end of the electrode assembly constitutes the electrode tab 27 of the corresponding electrode. In this embodiment, the current collector of the first electrode 21 is implemented using aluminum foil, and the current collector of the second electrode 22 is implemented using copper foil. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0288] The electrode tabs 27 are bent radially inward and overlap in the axial direction.

[0289] The electrode tab of the first electrode 21 is attached to the first current collector 31, and the electrode tab of the second electrode 22 is attached to the second current collector 32. In this embodiment, the current collector of the first electrode 21 is made of aluminum foil, and the current collector of the second electrode 22 is made of copper foil. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0290] The housing 10 is implemented using a cylindrical can 10 made of a metallic material. The can 10 includes: a sidewall member 11 extending in the axial direction and surrounding an axially extending interior space; and a bottom member 12 connected to a first axial end of the sidewall member 11. Thus, the first axial end of the sidewall member 11 forms a closed end, and a second axial end of the sidewall member 11 disposed on the opposite side defines an open end.

[0291] The first electrode terminal 13 is mounted through the center of the bottom member 12, with a washer 14 positioned between them. The washer 14 seals the gap between the first electrode terminal 13 and the bottom member 12, and electrically insulates the first electrode terminal 13 from the bottom member 12.

[0292] With the electrode assembly 20 housed in the tank 10, the first current collector 31 is coupled to the first electrode terminal 13. Therefore, the first electrode 21 and the first electrode terminal 13 are electrically connected.

[0293] The insulator 19 is inserted between the first current collector 31 and the bottom member 12. Therefore, the first current collector 31 is electrically insulated from the bottom member 12.

[0294] With the electrode assembly 20 housed in the tank 10, the axial second end of the sidewall member 11 is plastically deformed radially inward to form a rolled edge 116.

[0295] The edge of the second current collector 32 can be joined and fixed to the rolled edge 116 by welding or other methods. Therefore, the can 10 is electrically connected to the second current collector 32. The bottom member 12 of the can 10 can form the second electrode terminal of the battery cell. The second electrode 22 is electrically connected to the bottom member.

[0296] The battery cell includes a cap 16 covering the open end. The edge of the cap 16 is pressed by a rolled edge 116 and a crimping portion 117 provided at the open end of the can 10, and is fixed to the side wall member 11 of the can 10.

[0297] To seal the can 10 and the side wall member 11, the aforementioned cap gasket 17 is inserted between the edge of the cap 16 and the side wall member 11. The edge of the cap 16 is pressed by the rolled edge 116 and the crimping portion 117, and the cap gasket 17 is inserted between the two, thereby sealing the connection between the cap 16 and the can 10.

[0298] It should be understood that the described embodiments are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive, and the scope of the invention will be indicated by the appended claims rather than the detailed description described herein. Furthermore, the meaning and scope of the claims described below, as well as all changes and modifications derived from equivalent concepts, should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the invention.

[0299] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary drawings, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and concept of the invention. Furthermore, while the operational effects produced by the configuration according to the invention are not explicitly described in the description of embodiments of the invention, it should be understood that the effects that can be expected from this configuration should also be recognized.

Claims

1. A cap washer having a ring shape around an outer radial end of a cap, the cap extending radially to cover an axial end of an internal space defined by a battery cell housing, the cap washer comprising: A first washer and a second washer fastened to the first washer at the axial outer side of the first washer. The first washer includes: A radially extending first radial extension; An axial extension portion extending axially outward from the outer radial end of the first radial extension portion; and One or more first fasteners are provided at the outer axial end of the axial extension; The second washer includes: A second radially extending portion; and One or more second fastening portions are disposed on the axially inner side of the outer radial end of the second radial extension and are fastened to the one or more first fastening portions in the axial direction.

2. The cap washer according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more first fasteners and the one or more second fasteners fastened thereto are radially spaced from the inner radial end and the outer radial end of the axial extension.

3. The cap washer according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more first fasteners and the one or more second fasteners fastened thereto are located at a radial position corresponding to the inner radial end of the axial extension.

4. The cap washer according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more first fasteners and the one or more second fasteners fastened thereto are located at a radial position corresponding to the outer radial end of the axial extension.

5. The cap washer according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more first fasteners and the one or more second fasteners fastened thereto extend along the circumferential direction of the first washer and the second washer, respectively.

6. The cap washer according to claim 5, wherein, The plurality of first fasteners are arranged radially, and The plurality of second fasteners are arranged radially to correspond to the plurality of first fasteners.

7. The cap washer according to claim 6, wherein, At least two first fasteners are arranged to be connected in the radial direction, and At least two second fasteners corresponding to the at least two first fasteners are arranged to be connected in the radial direction.

8. The cap washer according to claim 1, wherein, The first fastening part and the second fastening part are respectively provided with a fastening groove recessed in the axial direction and a fastening protrusion extending in the axial direction to be inserted into the fastening groove in the axial direction, or the second fastening part and the first fastening part are respectively provided with a fastening groove recessed in the axial direction and a fastening protrusion extending in the axial direction to be inserted into the fastening groove in the axial direction.

9. The cap washer according to claim 8, wherein, One of the plurality of first fastening parts and the other first fastening part are respectively provided with a fastening groove and a fastening protrusion, and one of the plurality of second fastening parts corresponding to the one of the first fastening parts and the other second fastening part are respectively provided with a fastening groove and a fastening protrusion.

10. The cap washer according to claim 9, wherein, The first fastening part and the other first fastening part are arranged to be connected in the radial direction, and The second fastening part and the second fastening part corresponding to the first fastening part and the other first fastening part are arranged to be connected in the radial direction.

11. The cap washer according to claim 8, wherein, The fastening protrusion is provided with a hook that projects radially from its extended end, and The fastening groove corresponding to the fastening protrusion is provided with a hook groove, which is radially recessed at its recessed end to accommodate the hook in the radial direction.

12. The cap washer according to claim 11, wherein, The hook is disposed on one or both of the radially inner and radially outer sides of the fastening protrusion, and the hook groove is disposed on one or both of the radially inner and radially outer sides of the fastening groove to correspond to the hook.

13. The cap washer according to claim 1, wherein, The radially inner surface of the axial extension of the first washer is provided with a first radially outer surface facing the radially outer surface of the cap in the radial direction, and The second washer has a first axial inner surface on the axial inner surface of the second radial extension, which faces the edge of the axial outer surface of the cap in the axial direction.

14. The cap washer according to claim 13, wherein, The radial inner surface of the axial extension of the first washer is further provided with a second radial outer surface, which extends axially outward more than the radial outer surface of the cap.

15. The cap washer according to claim 13, wherein, The second radial extension of the second washer is further provided with a second axial inner surface, which extends axially outward more than the radial outer surface of the cap.

16. The cap washer according to claim 1, wherein, The first corner located on the axially inner side of the outer radial end of the first radial extension is rounded.

17. The cap washer according to claim 1, wherein, The second corner located on the outer radial end of the second radial extension is rounded.

18. The cap washer according to claim 17, wherein, The first corner located on the axially inner side of the outer radial end of the first radial extension is rounded. The radius of the rounded corner of the second corner is smaller than the radius of the rounded corner of the first corner.

19. A battery cell, the battery cell comprising: The cap gasket according to any one of claims 1 to 18; A can, the can being provided with a sidewall member having an open end; A rolled edge is formed by radially indenting the sidewall member near the opening end; A crimped portion, which is axially outwardly disposed than the rolled edge and formed by radially inwardly riveting the end of the sidewall member; and The cap, wherein the edge of the cap is positioned in the axial direction between the rolled edge and the crimping portion to clamp and compress the cap washer, thereby securing it in place. The first washer is disposed on the axial outer surface of the rolled edge. The edge of the cap contacts the axial outer surface of the first radial extension of the first washer and the radial inner surface of the axial extension. The axial inner surface of the second radial extension of the second washer contacts the edge of the cap, and The second fastening portion of the second washer is axially fastened to the first fastening portion of the first washer.

20. The battery cell according to claim 19, wherein, The axial outer corner of the edge of the cap is aligned with the radial inner surface of the axial extension of the first washer and the axial inner surface of the second radial extension of the second washer.

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