End cap assembly, energy storage device, and power supply system

Abstract

The application discloses an end cover assembly, an energy storage device and a power supply system. The end cover assembly comprises an end plate, a lower plastic, an adapter and a support. The end plate is provided with a pole assembly. The lower plastic is arranged on one side of the end plate in the thickness direction. The adapter is arranged on the side of the end plate facing the lower plastic, and the adapter is connected with the pole assembly. The support is arranged on the side of the end plate facing the lower plastic, and the support is fixedly connected with the adapter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of energy storage technology, and more specifically, to an end cap assembly, an energy storage device, and a power supply system. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, with the rapid development of new energy vehicles, energy storage systems, and consumer electronics, lithium-ion batteries have been widely used due to their advantages such as high energy density and long cycle life. However, batteries may experience adverse reactions under overcharging, short circuits, mechanical abuse, or high-temperature environments, leading to the generation of a large amount of gas inside the battery. The rapid accumulation of this gas can cause a sharp increase in internal pressure, which, if not released in time, may cause the battery casing to rupture or even explode, seriously threatening user safety. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides an end cap assembly, an energy storage device, and a power supply system to solve the problem of thermal runaway gas not being released in a timely manner in related technologies.

[0004] The end cap assembly of this application embodiment includes: End plate, wherein the end plate is provided with pole assembly; The lower plastic is located on one side of the end plate in the thickness direction; An adapter is located on the side of the lower plastic part facing away from the end plate, and the adapter is connected to the pole assembly; A support member is located on the side of the end plate facing the lower plastic, and the support member is fixedly connected to the adapter.

[0005] According to some embodiments of this application, the lower plastic includes an insulating plate having a through hole, the pole assembly passing through the through hole, and the adapter and the support both located on the side of the insulating plate facing away from the end plate.

[0006] According to some embodiments of this application, the insulating plate has a protrusion on the side facing away from the end plate, the adapter and the support are located on the side of the protrusion along a first direction, the support has at least one first exhaust channel extending along the first direction, and the protrusion has at least one second exhaust channel extending along the first direction, the first direction being the length direction of the end plate.

[0007] According to some embodiments of this application, in the first direction, the distance between the support member and the protrusion is L1, where L1 satisfies: L1≤10mm.

[0008] According to some embodiments of this application, the longest distance from the support member to the end plate is L2, and the longest distance from the protrusion to the end plate is L3, where L2 and L3 satisfy: L3-L2≥0.2mm.

[0009] According to some embodiments of this application, at least one of the first exhaust channels and at least one of the second exhaust channels have an overlapping portion in their orthogonal projections onto a projection plane, the projection plane being perpendicular to the first direction.

[0010] According to some embodiments of this application, the support member has an insulating layer on the side facing away from the end plate.

[0011] According to some embodiments of this application, the support member includes a support body and a first curved portion. At least one first curved portion is connected to both sides of the support body along a first direction, where the first direction is the length direction of the end plate. Each first curved portion extends from the support body along a third direction toward the end plate, where the third direction is the thickness direction of the end plate. At least one first curved portion located on the side of the support body near the adapter is fixedly connected to the adapter.

[0012] According to some embodiments of this application, at least one of the first curved portions located on the side of the support body near the adapter includes at least one first curved sub-portion, and each first curved sub-portion is provided with a positioning portion for positioning and engaging with the adapter.

[0013] According to some embodiments of this application, the positioning part has a stepped structure that positions and cooperates with the adapter.

[0014] According to some embodiments of this application, the adapter includes a connecting portion connected to the pole assembly, and at least one first bending portion located on the side of the support body near the adapter further includes at least one second bending sub-portion, each of the second bending sub-portions contacting and engaging with the side surface of the connecting portion opposite to the end plate.

[0015] The energy storage device according to the embodiments of this application includes: The shell has an open end; The electrode assembly is located within the housing; The end cap assembly described in any of the preceding claims is connected to the open end of the housing to enclose the electrode assembly within the housing.

[0016] The power supply system of this application embodiment includes electrical equipment and the above-mentioned energy storage device, wherein the energy storage device supplies power to the electrical equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The accompanying drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an energy storage system.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing how electrode components move upwards and block the exhaust channels when thermal runaway occurs in existing batteries.

[0020] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of a single cell battery according to an embodiment of this application.

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded view of the end cap assembly.

[0022] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A partial schematic diagram of the end cap assembly from one perspective.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a partial schematic diagram of an end cap assembly according to another embodiment from one viewpoint.

[0024] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A partial bottom view of the end cap assembly.

[0025] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of the area at point X1.

[0026] Figure 9 yes Figure 3 A partial side view of the end cap assembly, in which the insulation layer is separated from the support.

[0027] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a power supply system.

[0028] The reference numerals in the attached figures are explained as follows: 100. Shell; 101. Open end; 200. Electrode assembly; 300. End cap assembly; 310. End plate; 320. Lower plastic; 321. Insulating plate; 3211. Through hole; 322. Protrusion; 3221. Second exhaust channel; 323. Groove; 330. Adapter; 331. Connecting part; 332. Extension part; 340. Pressure relief mechanism; 350. Terminal post assembly; 360. Support member; 361. First exhaust channel; 362. Support body; 363. First bending part; 363a. First bending sub-part; 363b. Second bending sub-part; 3631. Positioning part; 364. Second bending part; 370. Insulating layer; D1, First Direction; D2, Second Direction; D3, Third Direction. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, they are provided so that this application will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar structures, and therefore their detailed description will be omitted.

[0030] It is understood that the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the embodiments of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the steps or units listed, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or components inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0031] For ease of explanation, the terms "first direction," "second direction," and "third direction" are used in the specific embodiments of this application. These terms simply refer to a feature having one of the aforementioned directions being perpendicular to a feature having another direction, and do not require that they be implemented according to the "first direction," "second direction," and "third direction" described in the embodiments. In the embodiments, the first direction, second direction, and third direction are mutually perpendicular.

[0032] Unless otherwise specified, in the claims and description, the terms “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” “outer,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation and positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only for the purpose of simplifying the description, and do not imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.

[0033] Because the energy people need is highly time- and space-dependent, in order to make rational use of energy and improve energy efficiency, it is necessary to use a medium or device to store one form of energy in the same way or by converting it into another form of energy, and then release it in a specific form of energy based on future application needs.

[0034] Currently, the generation of green electricity generally relies on solar, wind, and hydropower. However, wind and solar power are generally characterized by strong intermittency and large fluctuations, which can cause grid instability, insufficient power during peak demand periods, and excessive power during off-peak periods. Unstable voltage can also damage the power grid. Therefore, insufficient electricity demand or insufficient grid capacity may lead to the problem of "wind and solar curtailment." Solving these problems requires energy storage. This involves converting electrical energy into other forms of energy through physical or chemical means and storing it. When needed, this energy can be converted back into electrical energy and released. Simply put, energy storage is like a large "power bank," storing electrical energy when solar and wind power are abundant and releasing the stored electricity when needed.

[0035] Taking electrochemical energy storage as an example, this solution provides an energy storage device for use in energy storage systems. The energy storage device is equipped with a set of chemical batteries, which mainly use the chemical elements in the batteries as energy storage media. The charging and discharging process is accompanied by the chemical reaction or change of the energy storage media. Simply put, the electrical energy generated by wind and solar energy is stored in the chemical batteries. When the use of external electrical energy reaches its peak, the stored electricity is released for use, or transferred to places with a shortage of electricity for use.

[0036] Current energy storage applications are quite widespread, including generation-side energy storage, grid-side energy storage, and consumption-side energy storage. The corresponding types of energy storage devices include: (1) Large-scale energy storage power stations applied to wind power and photovoltaic power stations can help renewable energy power generation meet grid connection requirements and improve the utilization rate of renewable energy. As a high-quality active / reactive power regulation power source on the power supply side, energy storage power stations can achieve load matching of power in time and space, enhance the absorption capacity of renewable energy, reduce instantaneous power changes, reduce the impact on the power grid, improve the absorption of new energy power generation, and are of great significance in power grid system backup, alleviating peak load power supply pressure and peak regulation and frequency regulation. (2) Energy storage containers applied on the grid side mainly function as peak shaving, frequency regulation and relief of grid congestion. In terms of peak shaving, they can realize peak shaving and valley filling of electricity load, that is, charging the energy storage battery when the electricity load is low and releasing the stored electricity during the peak electricity load period, thereby achieving a balance between power production and consumption. (3) Small energy storage cabinets applied to the electricity consumption side mainly function as self-consumption of electricity, peak-valley price arbitrage, capacity cost management, and improvement of power supply reliability. Depending on the application scenario, electricity consumption side energy storage can be divided into industrial and commercial energy storage cabinets, household energy storage devices, energy storage charging piles, etc., which are generally used in conjunction with distributed photovoltaics. Industrial and commercial users can use energy storage for peak-valley price arbitrage and capacity cost management. In the electricity market implementing peak-valley pricing, by charging the energy storage system when the electricity price is low and discharging the energy storage system when the electricity price is high, peak-valley price arbitrage can be achieved, reducing electricity costs. In addition, industrial enterprises subject to two-part tariffs can use energy storage systems to store energy during off-peak hours and discharge during peak loads, thereby reducing peak power and the maximum demand declared, achieving the goal of reducing capacity costs. Household photovoltaics with energy storage can improve the level of self-consumption of electricity. Due to high electricity prices and poor power supply stability, the demand for household photovoltaic installations is driven. Given that photovoltaic power generation occurs during the day, while user load is generally higher at night, configuring energy storage can better utilize photovoltaic power, improve self-consumption levels, and reduce electricity costs. Furthermore, energy storage is needed in areas such as communication base stations and data centers for backup power.

[0037] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an energy storage system according to an embodiment of this application, and Figure 1 Taking the shared energy storage scenario on the power generation / distribution side as an example, the energy storage device in this application is not limited to the power generation / distribution side energy storage scenario.

[0038] This application provides an energy storage system, comprising: a high-voltage cable 2, a first power conversion device 3, a second power conversion device 4, and the energy storage device 1 provided in this application. In some embodiments of the power generation scenario, the second power conversion device 4 can be a wind power conversion device. Since the electricity generated by wind power conversion is volatile, random, and intermittent, the unstable electricity output by the wind power conversion device can be stored in the energy storage device 1 through grid connection. The energy storage device 1 is connected to the high-voltage cable 2 and outputs smooth electricity to the power consumption side of the distribution network, realizing peak shaving and frequency regulation, and ensuring stable grid operation; or, the wind power conversion device is always connected to the high-voltage cable 2. High-voltage cable 2 connects the wind power conversion device to the power distribution network under normal power generation conditions. When the current power load is low and the wind power conversion device generates excess power, the excess power is first stored in energy storage device 1 to reduce wind and solar curtailment and improve the absorption of new energy power generation. When the power load is high, the power grid issues an instruction to transmit the power stored in energy storage device 1 in conjunction with high-voltage cable 2 in grid-connected mode to the power consumption side. This provides the power grid with various services such as peak shaving, frequency regulation, and backup, giving full play to the peak shaving function of the power grid, promoting peak shaving and valley filling, and alleviating the power supply pressure on the power grid.

[0039] In some embodiments on the distribution network side, the first power conversion device 3 can be a photovoltaic power conversion device. The energy storage device 1 is connected to the high-voltage cable 2 and installed downstream of the high-voltage cable 2 between the user load and the high-voltage cable 2. The power output of the photovoltaic power conversion device is stored in the energy storage device 1, which can respond in time to act as a backup power source when the power grid / distribution network fails. Alternatively, it can provide power supply support to alleviate line blockage when the high-voltage cable 2 transmission line is blocked, and to delay the economic pressure caused by the expansion of the power grid / distribution capacity when the power grid is planned to be expanded.

[0040] Optionally, the first power conversion device 3 may include, but is not limited to, a wind power conversion device, and the second power conversion device 4 may include, but is not limited to, a photovoltaic power conversion device. The first power conversion device 3 and the second power conversion device 4 can convert at least one of solar energy, light energy, wind energy, thermal energy, tidal energy, biomass energy and mechanical energy into electrical energy.

[0041] Optionally, the energy storage device 1 may include, but is not limited to, energy storage applications such as energy storage power stations, hydropower / thermal / wind power generation systems, solar power generation systems, mobile power systems, smart home systems, or temporary power supply systems, and may also be applied in multiple fields such as data centers, military equipment, aerospace, charging piles, and electric vehicles.

[0042] Optionally, the energy storage device 1 can be, but is not limited to, a single battery (secondary battery), a battery module composed of single batteries, a battery pack, an energy storage cabinet, an energy storage container, etc. The actual application form of the energy storage device 1 provided in this application embodiment can be, but is not limited to, the listed products, and can also be other application forms. This application embodiment does not strictly limit the application form of the energy storage device 1.

[0043] The individual battery cells can be lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, lithium metal batteries, sodium metal batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, magnesium-ion batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lead-acid batteries, etc. Individual battery cells can be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, etc., and this application does not limit the specific form. The following description uses a cuboid individual battery cell as an example for energy storage device 1.

[0044] The inventors of this application discovered during their research that: Figure 2As shown, when the battery experiences thermal runaway, the electrode assembly 200 generates a large amount of high-temperature, high-pressure gas. The end plate 310 of the battery is impacted by this gas, causing it to deform upwards. Furthermore, due to the intense gas generation in the electrode assembly 200, the entire assembly moves closer to the end plate 310. Since the lower plastic layer melts under the influence of the high-temperature gas and is ejected to the outside of the battery, it can no longer support the electrode assembly 200. Therefore, the electrode assembly 200 continues to move upwards and gets closer and closer to the end plate 310, even to the point where the two ends of the electrode assembly 200 come into contact with the end plate 310. At this time, Figure 2 The exhaust channel for gas flow in area A is completely blocked, and gas cannot flow from both sides of the electrode assembly 200 through area A to the area where the explosion-proof valve is located on the end plate 310, which may easily cause the battery casing 100 to rupture or even explode.

[0045] Based on this, embodiments of this application provide an end cap assembly, an energy storage device, and a power supply system to solve the problem in related technologies where thermal runaway gas cannot be released in a timely manner, which can easily lead to shell rupture or even explosion.

[0046] like Figure 3 As shown, the energy storage device includes a housing 100, an end cap assembly 300, and an electrode assembly 200. The housing 100 has an open end 101. The electrode assembly 200 is disposed inside the housing 100. The end cap assembly 300 is connected to the open end 101 of the housing 100 to enclose the electrode assembly 200 inside the housing 100.

[0047] In one exemplary embodiment, the housing 100 is rectangular. Optionally, the housing 100 can be a steel housing, an aluminum housing, a plastic housing (such as polypropylene), a composite metal housing (such as a copper-aluminum composite housing), or an aluminum-plastic film, etc.

[0048] like Figure 3 As shown, electrode assembly 200 is the component in a single-cell battery where electrochemical reactions occur. Electrode assembly 200 is mainly formed by winding or stacking positive and negative electrode sheets, and typically a separator is provided between the positive and negative electrode sheets to separate them and prevent internal short circuits. The portions of the positive and negative electrode sheets containing active material constitute the electrode body of electrode assembly 200, while the portions without active material each constitute a tab. The positive and negative tabs can be located together at one end of the electrode body or separately at both ends. During the charging and discharging process of the single-cell battery, the positive and negative active materials react with the electrolyte.

[0049] Optionally, the electrode assembly 200 can be a stacked structure or a wound structure.

[0050] like Figure 4As shown, the end cap assembly 300 includes an end plate 310, an pole assembly 350, a pressure relief mechanism 340, and a lower plastic 320.

[0051] End plate 310 refers to a component that covers the opening 101 of housing 100 to isolate the cavity inside housing 100 from the external environment. Terminal assembly 350 is disposed on end plate 310 and is used to electrically connect with electrode assembly 200 for outputting or inputting electrical energy of individual cells.

[0052] Optionally, the length direction of the end plate 310 is the first direction D1, the width direction of the end plate 310 is the second direction D2, and the thickness direction of the end plate 310 is the third direction D3.

[0053] In one embodiment, the end plate 310 is provided with two electrode assembly 350, which serve as the positive electrode lead-out terminal and the negative electrode lead-out terminal of a single cell, respectively.

[0054] exist Figure 4 In the example, two pole post assemblies 350 are arranged at intervals along the first direction D1.

[0055] Optionally, the end plate 310 can be connected to the housing 100 by welding or rolling to isolate the cavity inside the housing 100 from the external environment.

[0056] In one embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism 340 is used to release the internal pressure of a single battery cell.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, a pressure relief mechanism 340 is disposed on an end plate 310 and is located between two pole post assemblies 350.

[0058] As an example, the internal pressure or temperature of a single cell is actuated to release the internal pressure or temperature when it reaches a predetermined threshold. When the internal pressure or temperature of a single cell reaches the predetermined threshold, the pressure relief mechanism 340 actuates or a weak structure provided in the pressure relief mechanism 340 is destroyed, thereby forming an opening or channel for the release of internal pressure or temperature. The threshold design varies depending on design requirements. The threshold may depend on the materials of one or more of the positive electrode, negative electrode, electrolyte, and separator in the single cell.

[0059] As an example, the pressure relief mechanism 340 can be integrally formed with the end plate 310. For example, grooves can be made on the end plate 310 to form a weak structure, which serves as the pressure relief mechanism 340.

[0060] As a modified embodiment, the pressure relief mechanism 340 can also be separately disposed from and connected to the end plate 310. For example, the pressure relief mechanism 340 can be welded to the end plate 310 or connected through other components. For example, grooves can be provided on the pressure relief mechanism 340 to form a weak structure.

[0061] As an example, the pressure relief mechanism 340 can take the form of an explosion-proof valve, a balancing valve, a pneumatic valve, a pressure relief valve, or a safety valve.

[0062] The term "actuation" as used in this application refers to the pressure relief mechanism 340 being activated or undergoing a certain state, thereby releasing the internal pressure and temperature of the individual battery cell. The actions of the pressure relief mechanism 340 may include, but are not limited to: movement of components within the pressure relief mechanism 340 to form a venting channel, rupture, breakage, tearing, or opening of at least a portion of the pressure relief mechanism 340, etc. When the pressure relief mechanism 340 is actuated, the high-temperature, high-pressure substances inside the individual battery cell are discharged outwards from the actuated portion. This method allows for pressure and temperature relief of the individual battery cell under controllable pressure or temperature, thereby preventing more serious accidents.

[0063] The emissions from a single cell mentioned in this application include, but are not limited to: electrolyte, dissolved or split positive and negative electrode plates, fragments of the separator, high-temperature and high-pressure gases generated by the reaction, flames, etc.

[0064] like Figure 4 As shown, the lower plastic 320 is disposed on the side of the end plate 310 facing the electrode assembly 200, which can isolate the end plate 310 and the electrode assembly 200 to maintain electrical insulation between the end plate 310 and the electrode assembly 200. In addition, the lower plastic 320 can also support the electrode assembly 200 when the battery is inverted.

[0065] In one embodiment, the lower plastic 320 can be a single integral part or a segmented structure, such as two or three segments.

[0066] In one example, on the third direction D3, the lower plastic 320 is provided with a through hole 3211 at the position corresponding to the electrode assembly 350, and the electrode assembly 200 passes through the corresponding through hole 3211.

[0067] exist Figure 4 In the example, the end cap assembly 300 also includes an adapter 330 located on the side of the lower plastic 320 facing away from the end plate 310. The adapter 330 is connected to the electrode post assembly 350 and can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly 200. By providing the adapter 330, the electrode assembly 200 and the electrode post assembly 350 can be electrically connected to conduct electrical energy from the electrode assembly 200 to the electrode post assembly 350.

[0068] exist Figure 4 In the example, the adapter 330 includes a connecting portion 331 and an extension portion 332. The connecting portion 331 is used to connect to the electrode assembly 350, for example, by welding. The extension portion 332 is perpendicularly connected to the connecting portion 331 and is used to connect to the tab of the electrode assembly 200.

[0069] In one embodiment, both the connecting portion 331 and the extension portion 332 are flat sheet structures, so that the adapter 330 is generally L-shaped.

[0070] Of course, in other embodiments, the adapter 330 may also be a flat sheet structure.

[0071] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the example, the end cap assembly 300 also includes a support 360 located on the side of the end plate 310 facing the lower plastic 320. The support 360 is fixedly connected to the adapter 330 and is configured to abut against the electrode assembly 200 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery causing the lower plastic 320 to melt.

[0072] In this embodiment, the end cap assembly 300 also includes a support member 360 fixedly connected to the adapter 330. The support member 360 is located on the side of the end plate 310 facing the lower plastic 320. In the event of thermal runaway of the battery causing the lower plastic 320 to melt, the support member 360 can hold the electrode assembly 200 to prevent the electrode assembly 200 from moving upward, thereby preventing the electrode assembly 200 from directly contacting the end plate 310 and blocking the exhaust channel between the electrode assembly 200 and the end plate 310. This facilitates the flow of thermal runaway gas along the exhaust channel between the electrode assembly 200 and the end plate 310 and its discharge to the outside of the battery, ensuring that the thermal runaway gas can be discharged in a timely manner, reducing the risk of battery cracking or even explosion. At the same time, the support member 360 can hold the electrode assembly 200 to prevent it from moving upward continuously, and can also prevent the electrode assembly 200 from directly contacting the end plate 310, which would cause severe deformation of the end plate 310, thereby avoiding the problem of battery casing cracking caused by severe deformation of the end plate 310. In addition, since the support member 360 is fixedly connected to the adapter member 330, the adapter member 330 can position the support member 360. In the event of thermal runaway of the battery causing the plastic 320 to melt, the support member 360 will not move relative to the end plate 310, ensuring that the support member 360 can hold the electrode assembly 200 at the preset position. This avoids the problem that the support member 360 may not hold the electrode assembly 200 well or even fail due to movement of the support member 360.

[0073] In one embodiment, the support member 360 and the adapter member 330 can be connected by any of the following connection methods: welding, bonding, or snap-fitting, without any particular limitation in this application.

[0074] Of course, in other embodiments, the support 360 and the adapter 330 can also be an integral structure.

[0075] exist Figure 5In the example, the lower plastic 320 includes an insulating plate 321, which is stacked on the surface of the end plate 310 facing the electrode assembly 200. The insulating plate 321 has through holes 3211 at positions corresponding to the electrode assembly 350 (e.g., ...). Figure 4 The through hole 3211 penetrates the insulating plate 321 along the third direction D3. The adapter 330 and the support 360 are both located on the side of the insulating plate 321 facing away from the end plate 310.

[0076] In this embodiment, by placing the support member 360 on the side of the insulating plate 321 facing away from the end plate 310, the insulating plate 321 can electrically insulate the support member 360 from the end plate 310, thereby reducing the risk of short circuit.

[0077] Of course, in other embodiments, the support member 360 may not be provided on the side of the insulating plate 321 facing away from the end plate 310. For example, the lower plastic 320 has a receiving groove on the side facing the end plate 310, and the support member 360 is received in the receiving groove.

[0078] Optionally, when the support member 360 is accommodated within the receiving groove of the lower plastic 320, an insulating member (not shown in the figure) may be provided on the side of the support member 360 facing the end plate 310. The insulating member can electrically insulate the support member 360 from the end plate 310. In one embodiment, the insulating member may include insulating adhesive.

[0079] exist Figure 5 In the example, the insulating plate 321 has a protrusion 322 for supporting the electrode assembly 200 on the side facing away from the end plate 310. The adapter 330 and the support 360 are located on the side of the protrusion 322 along the first direction D1. The support 360 has at least one first exhaust channel 361 extending along the first direction D1, and the protrusion 322 has at least one second exhaust channel 3221 extending along the first direction D1.

[0080] In this embodiment, by providing a first exhaust channel 361 on the support 360 and a second exhaust channel 3221 on the protrusion 322, the thermal runaway gas generated by the electrode assembly 200 can flow through the first exhaust channel 361 and the second exhaust channel 3221 in the space between the end plate 310 and the electrode assembly 200. This avoids blocking the exhaust channels between the end plate 310 and the electrode assembly 200 due to the provision of the support 360 and the protrusion 322, ensuring that the gas can be discharged as soon as possible.

[0081] In one embodiment, the support member 360 has a plurality of first exhaust channels 361, which are spaced apart along a second direction D2. The protrusion 322 has a plurality of second exhaust channels 3221, which are spaced apart along the second direction D2.

[0082] exist Figure 5 In the example, the insulating plate 321 has a groove 323 on the side surface facing the end plate 310, and at a position corresponding to the protrusion 322 on the third direction D3 (e.g. Figure 4 The groove 323 has groove sidewalls that are arranged opposite each other along the first direction D1, and the groove sidewalls are provided with a second exhaust channel 3221.

[0083] exist Figure 5 In the example, at least one of the first exhaust channels 361 and at least one of the second exhaust channels 3221 have an overlapping portion in their orthogonal projections onto a projection plane that is perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0084] In this embodiment, the first exhaust channel 361 and the second exhaust channel 3221 have overlapping portions on the projection plane, that is, the first exhaust channel 361 and the second exhaust channel 3221 correspond at least partially in the first direction D1. In this way, the thermal runaway gas can pass through the first exhaust channel 361 of the support member 360 near the adapter 330 and then directly pass through the second exhaust channel 3221 without the protrusion 322 blocking the first exhaust channel 361 in the first direction D1, thus avoiding the problem of poor exhaust.

[0085] It should be noted that at least one of the first exhaust channels 361 and at least one of the second exhaust channels 3221 have overlapping portions on the projection plane, which should be understood as: When the number of first exhaust channels 361 and the number of second exhaust channels 3221 are both one, the first exhaust channel 361 and the second exhaust channel 3221 have an overlapping portion in their orthogonal projections on the projection plane.

[0086] When there is one first exhaust channel 361 and multiple second exhaust channels 3221, it can be understood that: the orthographic projection of the first exhaust channel 361 and one of the second exhaust channels 3221 on the projection plane overlaps, while the orthographic projection of the first exhaust channel 361 and the remaining second exhaust channels 3221 on the projection plane does not overlap; it can also be understood that: the orthographic projection of the first exhaust channel 361 and at least two of the multiple second exhaust channels 3221 on the projection plane overlaps.

[0087] When there are multiple first exhaust channels 361 and multiple second exhaust channels 3221, it can be understood that: the orthographic projection of one of the first exhaust channels 361 and one of the second exhaust channels 3221 on the projection plane overlaps, while the orthographic projections of the remaining first exhaust channels 361 and the remaining second exhaust channels 3221 on the projection plane do not overlap; it can also be understood that: the orthographic projection of one of the first exhaust channels 361 and at least two of the multiple second exhaust channels 3221 on the projection plane overlaps; it can also be understood that: the orthographic projection of one of the second exhaust channels 3221 and at least two of the multiple first exhaust channels 361 on the projection plane overlaps; or it can be understood that: the orthographic projections of at least two of the first exhaust channels 361 and at least two of the second exhaust channels 3221 on the projection plane overlap.

[0088] exist Figure 5 In the example, the support 360 includes a support body 362 and a first bend 363. For clarity, not all first bends 363 are labeled. At least one first bend 363 is connected to each side of the support body 362 along a first direction D1. Each first bend 363 extends from the support body 362 along a third direction D3 toward the end plate 310. At least one first bend 363 located on the side of the support body 362 near the adapter 330 is fixedly connected to the adapter 330.

[0089] The support member 360 also includes a second curved portion 364. The two ends of the support body 362 along the second direction D2 are respectively connected to the second curved portion 364, and each second curved portion 364 extends from the support body 362 along the third direction D3 toward the direction close to the end plate 310.

[0090] In one embodiment, when multiple first bends 363 are connected to both sides of the support body 362 along the first direction D1, the multiple first bends 363 located on the same side of the support body 362 are arranged at intervals along the second direction D2 so that a first exhaust channel 361 is formed between adjacent first bends 363.

[0091] exist Figure 5 In the example, at least one first bending portion 363 located on the side of the support body 362 near the adapter 330 includes a first bending sub-portion 363a, and each first bending sub-portion 363a is provided with a positioning portion 3631 for positioning and engaging with the adapter 330.

[0092] In this embodiment, a positioning part 3631 for positioning and cooperating with the adapter 330 is provided in the first bent sub-part 363a of the support member 360. This facilitates the installation and positioning of the support member 360 and the adapter 330 when they are connected, ensuring that the position of the support member 360 and the adapter 330 after they are fixedly connected meets the requirements. This avoids the support member 360 from blocking the part of the adapter 330 used to connect with the pole post assembly 350 after the support member 360 and the adapter 330 are fixed, thereby avoiding interference between the welding equipment and the support member 360 when the adapter 330 and the pole post assembly 350 are connected.

[0093] In one example, the positioning part 3631 has a stepped structure that positions and engages with the adapter 330. Of course, in other embodiments, the positioning part 3631 may include any of the following structures: a groove, a protrusion, or a notch.

[0094] exist Figure 5 In the example, at least one first bend 363 located on the side of the support body 362 near the adapter 330 also includes at least one second bend sub-part 363b, each second bend sub-part 363b contacting and engaging with the side surface of the connecting part 331 facing away from the end plate 310.

[0095] In one example, there are four first curved portions 363 located on the side of the support body 362 near the adapter 330. The two first curved portions 363 located in the middle position are the second curved sub-portions 363b, and the two first curved portions 363 located at both ends are the first curved sub-portions 363a.

[0096] exist Figure 6 In the example, the first curved portion 363 located on the side of the support body 362 near the adapter 330 may not have a positioning portion 3631. Instead, each first curved portion 363 located on the side of the support body 362 near the adapter 330 is provided on the side of the connecting portion 331 of the adapter 330 facing away from the end plate 310, and each first curved portion 363 is connected to the connecting portion 331.

[0097] exist Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the example, in the first direction D1, the distance between the support 360 and the protrusion 322 is L1, and L1 satisfies: L1≤10mm.

[0098] In this embodiment, the distance between the support member 360 and the protrusion 322 is designed to be ≤10mm, so that the support member 360 and the protrusion 322 are as close as possible or even in contact. When the battery is in normal use, since the support member 360 is very close to the protrusion 322, when the protrusion 322 abuts against the electrode assembly 200, the distance between the electrode assembly 200 and the support member 360 can be increased, avoiding the risk of short circuit caused by the electrode assembly 200 contacting the support member 360.

[0099] exist Figure 9 In the example, the longest distance from the support 360 to the end plate 310 is L2, and the longest distance from the protrusion 322 to the end plate 310 is L3. L2 and L3 satisfy: L3-L2≥0.2mm.

[0100] In this embodiment, the protrusion 322 is closer to the electrode assembly 200 than the support 360, so that the protrusion 322 can abut against the electrode assembly 200, avoiding contact between the support 360 and the electrode assembly 200, thereby preventing a short circuit.

[0101] In one example, the support member 360 has a first plane 365 on the side facing away from the end plate 310, and the protrusion 322 has a second plane 3222 on the side facing away from the end plate 310. The first plane 365 is perpendicular to a third direction D3, and the second plane 3222 is perpendicular to the third direction D3. The distance from the first plane 365 to the end plate 310 is L2, and the distance from the second plane 3222 to the end plate 310 is L3.

[0102] In one embodiment, the support member 360 is a metal part, and the metal material can be iron or copper.

[0103] In this embodiment, the support member 360 is made of metal, which ensures that the support member 360 has high strength and melting point. In the event of thermal runaway of the battery causing the plastic 320 to melt, the support member 360 can stably support the electrode assembly 200 and prevent the electrode assembly 200 from moving upward.

[0104] exist Figure 9 In the example, when the support member 360 is a metal part, an insulating layer 370 is provided on the side of the support member 360 facing away from the end plate 310. The insulating layer 370 can isolate the support member 360 and the electrode assembly 200 so that the support member 360 and the electrode assembly 200 remain electrically isolated.

[0105] In this embodiment, by providing an insulating layer 370 on the side of the support member 360 facing the electrode assembly 200, direct contact between the support member 360 and the electrode assembly 200 can be avoided, thereby preventing a short circuit.

[0106] In one embodiment, the insulating layer 370 may include insulating adhesive.

[0107] Of course, in other embodiments, the support 360 may also be made of a high-temperature resistant insulating material, such as a ceramic component.

[0108] It should be added that when the support 360 is made of insulating material, the lower plastic 320 may not have a protrusion 322, and the support 360 can be used to support the electrode assembly 200 when the battery is in normal use.

[0109] like Figure 10 As shown, this application also provides a power supply system 6, including an electrical device 5 and an energy storage device 1 of any of the above, wherein the energy storage device 1 supplies power to the electrical device 5.

[0110] It is understood that the various embodiments / implementations provided in this application can be combined with each other without creating contradictions, and will not be described one by one here.

[0111] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance; the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise expressly defined. The terms "install," "connect," "link," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connect" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "link" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0112] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the claims. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0113] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the application examples and are not intended to limit the application examples. For those skilled in the art, the application examples can have various modifications and variations. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the application examples should be included within the protection scope of the application examples.

Claims

1. An end cap assembly, characterized in that, include: End plate, wherein the end plate is provided with pole assembly; The lower plastic is located on one side of the end plate in the thickness direction; An adapter is located on the side of the lower plastic part facing away from the end plate, and the adapter is connected to the pole assembly; A support member is located on the side of the end plate facing the lower plastic, and the support member is fixedly connected to the adapter.

2. The end cap assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lower plastic includes an insulating plate with a through hole, through which the pole assembly passes, and the adapter and the support are both located on the side of the insulating plate facing away from the end plate.

3. The end cap assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The insulating plate has a protrusion on the side facing away from the end plate. The adapter and the support are located on the side of the protrusion along a first direction. The support has at least one first exhaust channel extending along the first direction. The protrusion has at least one second exhaust channel extending along the first direction. The first direction is the length direction of the end plate.

4. The end cap assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, In the first direction, the distance between the support and the protrusion is L1, where L1 satisfies: L1≤10mm.

5. The end cap assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The longest distance from the support member to the end plate is L2, and the longest distance from the protrusion to the end plate is L3. L2 and L3 satisfy: L3-L2≥0.2mm.

6. The end cap assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, At least one of the first exhaust channels and at least one of the second exhaust channels have an overlapping portion in their orthogonal projections onto a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction.

7. The end cap assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support member has an insulating layer on the side facing away from the end plate.

8. The end cap assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support member includes a support body and a first curved portion. At least one first curved portion is connected to both sides of the support body along a first direction, where the first direction is the length direction of the end plate. Each first curved portion extends from the support body along a third direction toward the end plate, where the third direction is the thickness direction of the end plate. At least one first curved portion located on the side of the support body closer to the adapter is fixedly connected to the adapter.

9. The end cap assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, At least one of the first bending portions located on the side of the support body near the adapter includes at least one first bending sub-portion, and each first bending sub-portion is provided with a positioning portion for positioning and engaging with the adapter.

10. The end cap assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The positioning part has a stepped structure that positions and cooperates with the adapter.

11. The end cap assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The adapter includes a connecting portion connected to the pole assembly. At least one first bending portion located on the side of the support body near the adapter also includes at least one second bending sub-portion. Each second bending sub-portion is in contact with the side surface of the connecting portion facing away from the end plate.

12. An energy storage device, characterized in that, include: The shell has an open end; The electrode assembly is located within the housing; The end cap assembly according to any one of claims 1-11 is connected to the open end of the housing to enclose the electrode assembly within the housing.

13. A power supply system, characterized in that, It includes electrical equipment and the energy storage device as described in claim 12, wherein the energy storage device supplies power to the electrical equipment.

Images