Methods for replacing restraint devices and battery pack housing

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of vehicle battery pack repair technology, specifically to a restraint device and a method for replacing the battery pack housing. The restraint device includes a supporting structure, a first limiting structure, a second limiting structure, and a pressing structure. The supporting structure supports the battery cell module. The first and second limiting structures are spaced apart on the supporting structure to clamp and limit the battery cell module. The pressing structure is slidably connected to the supporting structure along a first direction, used to press the battery cell module from one side of the first direction, where the first direction is the arrangement direction of the first and second limiting structures. The restraint device provided by this invention improves the convenience of replacing the battery pack housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle battery pack repair technology, specifically to a method for replacing restraint devices and battery pack housings. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, all types of vehicles, including plug-in hybrid, range-extended hybrid, and pure electric vehicles, are equipped with battery packs as energy storage units. A typical battery pack includes cell modules and a housing to hold these modules. When the housing is damaged, the battery pack can be repaired by replacing the housing, avoiding the need to replace the entire battery pack and reducing vehicle maintenance costs.

[0003] In existing technology, milling equipment is used to cut the casing to remove the battery cell modules. The milling equipment mainly includes a gantry frame, a spindle assembly, and a battery pack positioning assembly. The spindle assembly is connected to the gantry frame so that the gantry frame can support the spindle assembly. The spindle assembly can mill the battery pack, and the battery pack positioning assembly can position the battery pack to be milled to ensure the accuracy of the milling operation. Subsequently, the battery cell modules are placed into a new casing to form a new battery pack, thus completing the battery pack repair.

[0004] However, since the volume of the battery cell module may expand after multiple charge and discharge cycles, it is difficult and inconvenient to put the battery cell module into a new housing using the existing technology. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the purpose of this application is to provide a method for replacing the restraint device and the battery pack housing, which aims to solve the problem of how to improve the convenience of replacing the battery pack housing.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a restraint device, which includes a bearing structure, a first limiting structure, a second limiting structure, and a compression structure. The bearing structure is used to support a battery cell module, and the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure are spaced apart on the bearing structure to clamp and limit the battery cell module.

[0007] The extrusion structure is slidably connected to the bearing structure along a first direction, and is used to extrude the battery cell module from one side of the battery cell module in the first direction. The first direction is the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure.

[0008] Based on the above technical means, this application sets up a support structure to support the battery cell module, and sets up a first limiting structure and a second limiting structure at intervals on the support structure. The support structure supports the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure so as to clamp and limit the battery cell module through the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure.

[0009] By sliding the extrusion structure along the first direction to the supporting structure, the battery cell module is extruded from one side of the first direction. This allows the extrusion structure to adjust the size of the battery cell module before it is placed into the new housing, ensuring its dimensions along the first direction match the new housing. This facilitates placement and reduces the difficulty of inserting the battery cell module into the new housing, improving the convenience of battery pack housing replacement. This avoids the high repair costs associated with replacing the entire battery pack after damage to the battery pack housing due to difficulties in housing replacement.

[0010] In some embodiments, the extrusion structure includes a rotating member and an extruding member. The extruding member is slidably connected to the bearing structure along the first direction for extruding the battery cell module. The rotating member is rotatably connected to the bearing structure and is drively connected to the extruding member for driving the extruding member to move along the first direction.

[0011] Based on the aforementioned technical means, by rotatably connecting the rotating component to the supporting structure and drivingly connecting the rotating component to the extrusion component, the rotational motion of the rotating component is converted into the linear motion of the extrusion component along the first direction, thereby extruding the battery cell module through the extrusion component. The extrusion structure, comprising the rotating component and the extrusion component, is simple in structure, occupies little space, helps reduce the manufacturing cost of the restraint device, and facilitates the installation of the extrusion structure on the supporting structure.

[0012] In some embodiments, the bearing structure is provided with a threaded hole, the axial direction of which is aligned with the first direction.

[0013] The rotating component is provided with an external thread, the rotating component passes through the threaded hole, and the external thread is threadedly connected to the threaded hole. The rotating component is rotatably connected to the extrusion component.

[0014] Based on the above technical means, the bearing structure and the rotating part are connected by a threaded connection to achieve a rotational connection. It can be understood that the external thread on the threaded hole and the rotating part is easy to process, which helps to reduce the production cost. Furthermore, the rotation of the rotating part in the threaded hole is converted into the linear motion of the extrusion part to extrude the battery cell module. This is more labor-saving and can improve the ease of use of the restraint device.

[0015] In some embodiments, the extruder is provided with a receiving groove, the rotating member includes a rod and a head, the rod is provided with the external thread and passes through the threaded hole, the head is connected to the rod, the head is located in the receiving groove and is rotatable in the receiving groove.

[0016] According to the above technical means, with the above configuration, when the rod of the rotating component rotates in the threaded hole, the head of the rotating component can rotate synchronously in the receiving groove, and the rotating component can move linearly relative to the bearing structure along the first direction to drive the extrusion component to extrude the battery cell module. Specifically, by providing a receiving groove on the extrusion component, the head of the rotating component is positioned within the receiving groove and can rotate within it. The receiving groove can limit the head of the rotating component, thereby achieving a transmission connection between the rotating component and the extrusion component. This makes the connection between the rotating component and the extrusion component more reliable, thus improving the reliability of the restraint device.

[0017] In some embodiments, the space between the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure is an accommodating space. The extrusion member includes a main body, a first extrusion part, and a second extrusion part. The rotating member is drivenly connected to the main body. The first extrusion part and the second extrusion part are both connected to the side of the main body near the accommodating space. The first extrusion part and the second extrusion part are spaced apart along a second direction for extruding the battery cell module. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction and perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure and the bearing structure.

[0018] According to the above-mentioned technical means, by setting the extrusion component including a main body, a first extrusion part and a second extrusion part, and the first extrusion part and the second extrusion part being spaced apart along a second direction, it is used to extrude the battery cell module. The spaced first extrusion part and the second extrusion part can form a clearance space so as to better contact with the battery cell module and extrude the battery cell module.

[0019] Furthermore, the battery pack may include multiple cell modules, which are arranged along the second direction. The first limiting structure and the second limiting structure can simultaneously clamp multiple cell modules. The extrusion member includes a first extrusion part and a second extrusion part arranged at intervals. The first extrusion part and the second extrusion part can extrude different cell modules respectively, thereby facilitating the simultaneous extrusion of multiple cell modules and improving the extrusion efficiency of the cell modules.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first limiting structure includes a limiting body and a resistance-reducing structure. The limiting body is connected to the bearing structure, and the resistance-reducing structure is connected to the side of the limiting body near the second limiting structure for contacting the battery cell module.

[0021] According to the above technical means, by setting the first limiting structure including the limiting body and the resistance reducing structure, and the resistance reducing structure is used to contact the battery cell module, the friction between the first limiting structure and the battery cell module can be reduced by the resistance reducing structure, which makes it easier to smoothly put the battery cell module into the restraint device, improves the ease of use of the restraint device, and reduces the wear caused to the battery cell module.

[0022] In some embodiments, the drag-reducing structure includes a rolling element rotatably connected to the limiting body.

[0023] According to the above technical means, when the battery cell module is assembled into the restraint device, the rolling element can roll relative to the battery cell module. This can change the sliding friction between the battery cell module and the first limiting structure into rolling friction, thereby reducing the friction between the first limiting structure and the battery cell module and improving the ease of use of the restraint device.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first limiting structure is provided with a first connecting hole, and the bearing structure is provided with a second connecting hole.

[0025] The restraint device further includes a first fastener, which passes through the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole to connect the first limiting structure and the bearing structure. Along the first direction, the size of the first connecting hole is larger than the size of the first fastener.

[0026] Based on the aforementioned technical means, when replacing the battery pack casing, the dimensions of the cell module in the first direction can be measured first. Then, the position of the first limiting structure on the supporting structure can be adjusted according to these dimensions to ensure that the distance between the first and second limiting structures matches the dimensions of the cell module in the first direction. Specifically, a first connecting hole is formed in the first limiting structure, and a second connecting hole is formed in the supporting structure. The size of the first connecting hole is larger than the size of the first fastener along the first direction. After the first fastener passes through the first and second connecting holes, the first limiting structure is moved along the first direction according to the dimensions of the cell module in the first direction, i.e., the position of the first fastener within the second connecting hole is adjusted until the distance between the first and second limiting structures matches the dimensions of the cell module in the first direction. Finally, the first fastener is tightened to fix the first limiting structure. This allows the restraint device to adapt to battery modules with different expansion amounts, improving the applicability of the restraint device. It also ensures the connection stability of the first limiting structure on the bearing structure, thereby ensuring the stability of the first and second limiting structures in clamping the battery module. In particular, if vibration occurs during the transfer process after the restraint device clamps the battery module, the restraint device of this application can still stably clamp the battery module.

[0027] In some embodiments, the number of the first limiting structures is multiple, and the multiple first limiting structures are spaced apart along a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction and perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first limiting structures and the bearing structure; the extrusion structure is disposed between two adjacent first limiting structures.

[0028] Based on the aforementioned technical means, by setting multiple first limiting structures along the second direction, these multiple first limiting structures, in conjunction with the second limiting structure, can provide more balanced and reliable clamping and limiting of the battery cell module, thereby improving the reliability of the restraint device. Placing the extrusion structure between two adjacent first limiting structures allows for efficient use of the space on the supporting structure, reducing the volume of the restraint device and facilitating its use.

[0029] In some embodiments, the supporting structure includes a frame and a plurality of support members, the plurality of support members being spaced apart on the inner side of the frame and connected to the frame for supporting the battery cell module, and the first limiting structure, the second limiting structure and the extrusion structure being connected to the frame.

[0030] Based on the aforementioned technical means, after the battery cell module is assembled into the restraint device, the support member can support the battery cell module, preventing it from falling out of the restraint device due to insufficient friction between the battery cell module and the first and second limiting structures. This improves the reliability of the restraint device.

[0031] In some embodiments, the restraint device further includes a first guide and a second guide connected to the support structure. The first guide and the second guide are spaced apart along a second direction to guide the battery cell module into the space between the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction and perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure and the support structure.

[0032] According to the above-mentioned technical means, for example, there is a gap between the damaged battery pack housing and the cell module. By setting a first guide and a second guide at intervals in the restraint device, the first guide and the second guide can be inserted into the gap between the damaged battery pack housing and the cell module respectively, so as to provide guidance when the cell module is put into the restraint device from the damaged battery pack housing, thereby facilitating the placement of the cell module into the restraint device.

[0033] In some embodiments, the restraint device further includes a third limiting structure, which is detachably connected to the first guide and / or the second guide, for limiting the battery cell module on the side of the battery cell module away from the support structure.

[0034] According to the aforementioned technical means, for example, after the battery cell module is placed into the restraint device from the damaged battery pack housing, it will flip together with the restraint device during the process of placing it into the new housing. By setting a third limiting structure on the first guide and / or the second guide to limit the battery cell module on the side away from the supporting structure, it is ensured that the battery cell module will not fall out of the restraint device when it flips together with the restraint device, thus improving the reliability of the restraint device. Furthermore, the third limiting structure is detachably connected to the first guide and / or the second guide, so it can be removed before placing the battery cell module into the new housing to avoid interference with the battery cell module.

[0035] In some embodiments, the first guide member is provided with a third connecting hole, and the bearing structure is provided with a fourth connecting hole; the restraint device further includes a second fastener, which passes through the third connecting hole and the fourth connecting hole to connect the first guide member and the bearing structure, and along the second direction, the size of the third connecting hole is larger than the size of the second fastener.

[0036] Based on the aforementioned technical means, when replacing the battery pack casing, the dimensions of the cell module in the second direction can be measured first. Then, the position of the first guide member on the supporting structure can be adjusted according to these dimensions to ensure that the distance between the first and second guide members matches the dimensions of the cell module in the second direction. Specifically, a third connecting hole is opened on the first guide member, and a fourth connecting hole is opened on the supporting structure. The third connecting hole is larger than the second fastener in the second direction. After the second fastener passes through the third and fourth connecting holes, the first guide member is moved along the second direction according to the dimensions of the cell module in the second direction, i.e., the position of the second fastener within the third connecting hole is adjusted until the distance between the first and second guide members matches the dimensions of the cell module in the second direction. Finally, the second fastener is tightened to fix the first guide member. This facilitates the insertion of the first guide member into the gap between the casing and the cell module, improving the applicability of the restraint device.

[0037] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a method for replacing a battery pack housing, employing any of the aforementioned restraint devices, the replacement method comprising: The first battery pack is subjected to freezing treatment. The first battery pack is a battery pack with all components except the casing, cell module and bottom protection plate removed. Remove the bottom protective plate from the first battery pack; Flip the first battery pack so that the terminals of the cell modules in the first battery pack face downwards; The restraint device is moved to the lower side of the first battery pack, and the cell mold of the first battery pack is assembled into the restraint device; Flip the restraint device so that the terminals of the battery cell module inside the restraint device face upwards; The restraint device is moved to the upper side of the new housing, and the cell module is assembled into the new housing to form a second battery pack.

[0038] According to the above-mentioned technical methods, polyurethane thermally conductive structural adhesive is usually used to connect the cell module to the bottom cover plate, thereby fixing the cell module in the housing. In order to separate the bottom cover plate from the cell module, based on the characteristics of polyurethane thermally conductive structural adhesive, namely that the adhesive becomes more brittle at lower temperatures, the first battery pack can be subjected to freezing treatment, which can facilitate the separation of the bottom cover plate from the cell module.

[0039] By using the above replacement method and a restraint device to transfer the battery cell module from the first battery pack to the new housing, the operation is time-saving and labor-saving, and the battery cell module can be reused, which helps to reduce vehicle maintenance costs.

[0040] Furthermore, compared to the method in related technologies that uses a descaling agent to separate the battery cell module from the bottom cover, the method provided in this application can avoid the descaling agent from damaging the blue film on the individual battery cell in the battery cell module (for example, causing the blue film to break or fall off). Since the descaling agent is usually harmful to the human body and the natural environment, the method of this application can also avoid the harm of the descaling agent to the human body and the natural environment. Attached Figure Description

[0041] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the background art, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be described below.

[0042] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a restraint device provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the bottom of the restraint device shown; Figure 3 To press the cell modules out of the first battery pack housing Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the restraint device shown; Figure 4 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a restraint device equipped with a battery cell module. Figure 5 for Figure 2 The diagram shows a restraint device equipped with a battery cell module. Figure 6 To move the battery cell module from Figure 2A schematic diagram of the restraint device being pressed into the housing of the second battery pack; Figure 7 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the mounting end plate in the battery cell module shown; Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for replacing a battery pack housing, provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 10-Restraint device; 1-Bearing structure; 11-Threaded hole; 12-Frame; 13-Supporting member; 2-First limiting structure; 21-Limiting body; 22-Resistance reduction structure; 3-Second limiting structure; 4-Extrusion structure; 41-Extrusion member; 411-Accommodating groove; 412-Main body; 413-First extrusion part; 414-Second extrusion part; 5-First guide member; 6-Second guide member; 7-Third limiting structure; 8-Lifting structure; F1 - First direction; F2 - Second direction; 20 - First pressure device; 30 - Mounting end plate; 301 - Reinforcing rib; 40 - Second pressure device. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The terms “first,” “second,” etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and have no sequential or technical meaning, nor should they be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated.

[0045] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. "Fixed connection" refers to a connection where the relative positional relationship remains unchanged after connection. "Rotary connection" refers to a connection where the two parts can rotate relative to each other after connection. "Sliding connection" refers to a connection where the two parts can slide relative to each other after connection.

[0046] The terms "parallel" and "perpendicular" are relative to the current technological level, not absolute mathematical definitions. Slight deviations are permissible; approximations of parallelism or perpendicularity are acceptable. For example, "A and B are parallel" means that A and B are parallel or approximately parallel, with the angle between them ranging from 0 to 5 degrees. Similarly, "A and B are perpendicular" means that A and B are perpendicular or approximately perpendicular, with the angle between them ranging from 85 to 95 degrees.

[0047] The embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 Some embodiments of this application provide a restraint device 10. The restraint device 10 is used for battery pack repair. For example, after the battery pack casing is damaged, the restraint device 10 can restrain and fix the cell modules inside the damaged battery pack, and then transfer the restrained and fixed cell modules to a new battery pack casing. This eliminates the need to disassemble the cell modules in the damaged battery pack into individual cells and then repack the individual cells, saving battery pack repair time and improving repair efficiency.

[0049] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The restraint device 10 includes a bearing structure 1, a first limiting structure 2, a second limiting structure 3, and a squeezing structure 4. The bearing structure 1 is used to support the battery cell module. The first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 are spaced apart from the bearing structure 1 and are used to clamp and limit the battery cell module.

[0050] The extrusion structure 4 is slidably connected to the bearing structure 1 along the first direction F1, and is used to extrude the battery cell module from one side of the first direction F1. The first direction F1 is the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3.

[0051] For example, the battery cell module includes multiple sets of battery cells, with multiple battery cells in each set stacked along the thickness direction of the battery cell, and the multiple sets of battery cells arranged along the length direction of the battery cell, wherein the first direction F1 is consistent with the thickness direction of the battery cell.

[0052] The aforementioned cell module can be a cell module within a vehicle's battery pack. Because the cell module may expand in volume and increase in size after multiple charge-discharge cycles, for example, the dimension of the cell module increases significantly along the thickness direction of the cells. When the vehicle's battery pack casing is damaged, but the cell modules within it are not damaged, the cell modules can be transferred from the damaged casing to a new casing, thereby achieving full utilization of the cell modules and reducing vehicle maintenance costs.

[0053] This application sets up a support structure 1 to support the battery cell module, and sets up a first limiting structure 2 and a second limiting structure 3 at intervals on the support structure 1. The support structure 1 supports the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 so as to clamp and limit the battery cell module.

[0054] By sliding the extrusion structure 4 along the first direction F1 to the supporting structure 1, the battery cell module is extruded from one side of the first direction F1. This allows the extrusion structure 4 to adjust the size of the battery cell module before it is placed into the new housing, ensuring that its dimensions along the first direction F1 match the new housing. This facilitates placement and reduces the difficulty of inserting the battery cell module into the new housing, improving the convenience of replacing the battery pack housing. This avoids the high repair costs associated with replacing the entire battery pack after damage to the battery pack housing due to difficulties in replacing the housing.

[0055] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 The extrusion structure 4 includes a rotating component and an extrusion component 41. The extrusion component 41 is slidably connected to the bearing structure 1 along the first direction F1 and is used to extrude the battery cell module. The rotating component is rotatably connected to the bearing structure 1 and is drively connected to the extrusion component 41 to drive the extrusion component 41 to move along the first direction F1.

[0056] In this way, by rotatably connecting the rotating component to the supporting structure 1 and drivingly connecting the rotating component to the extrusion component 41, the rotational motion of the rotating component is converted into the linear motion of the extrusion component 41 along the first direction F1, thereby extruding the battery cell module through the extrusion component 41. The extrusion structure 4, including the rotating component and the extrusion component 41, has a simple structure, occupies little space, helps reduce the manufacturing cost of the restraint device 10, and facilitates the installation of the extrusion structure 4 on the supporting structure 1.

[0057] In some examples, the supporting structure 1 includes a guide rail extending along a first direction F1, and the extruder 41 is slidably connected to the guide rail to achieve a slidable connection between the extruder 41 and the supporting structure 1. In other examples, the extruder 41 may overlap the surface of the supporting structure 1 to achieve a slidable connection between the extruder 41 and the supporting structure 1. In still other examples, the supporting structure 1 may be provided with a guide groove extending along the first direction F1, and the extruder 41 may be provided with a guide post, which is disposed within the guide groove and can slide within the guide groove along the first direction F1 to achieve a slidable connection between the extruder 41 and the supporting structure 1.

[0058] In some other embodiments, the extrusion structure 4 may include a telescopic member and an extrusion member 41. One end of the telescopic member is connected to the supporting structure 1, and the other end is connected to the extrusion member 41. The telescopic member can extend and retract along a first direction F1 to move the extrusion member 41. For example, the telescopic member may be an electric push rod or a hydraulic push rod, etc. Thus, the extrusion structure 4 can also extrude the battery cell module.

[0059] In some embodiments, see Figure 1The supporting structure 1 is provided with a threaded hole 11, the axial direction of which is consistent with the first direction F1. For example, the supporting structure 1 includes a frame 12 and a protruding structure provided on the frame 12. The protruding structure protrudes along the thickness direction of the frame 12 toward the side where the first limiting structure 2 is located, and the protruding structure is provided with the aforementioned threaded hole 11.

[0060] The rotating part is provided with an external thread, and the rotating part passes through the threaded hole 11. The external thread is threadedly connected to the threaded hole 11, and the rotating part is rotatably connected to the extrusion part 41.

[0061] In this way, the load-bearing structure 1 and the rotating part are connected by a threaded connection to achieve a rotational connection. It can be understood that the external thread on the threaded hole 11 and the rotating part is easy to process, which helps to reduce the production cost. The rotation of the rotating part in the threaded hole 11 is converted into the linear motion of the extrusion part 41 to extrude the battery cell module. This is more labor-saving and can improve the ease of use of the restraint device 10.

[0062] In some other embodiments, the rotating component can be a gear, and the pressing component 41 can be a rack. The gear meshes with the rack, and the gear is rotatably connected to the bearing structure 1. The rotation of the gear can drive the rack to move along the first direction F1, so that one end of the rack can press the battery cell module. In this way, the pressing structure 4 can also press the battery cell module.

[0063] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 The extrusion member 41 is provided with a receiving groove 411. The rotating member includes a rod and a head. The rod is provided with external threads. For example, the rotating member can be a bolt. The rod of the rotating member passes through the threaded hole 11, and the head is connected to the rod. The head is located in the receiving groove 411 and can rotate within the receiving groove 411. For example, the receiving groove 411 is recessed from the side surface of the extrusion member 41 near the protruding structure away from the protruding structure, and extends through the extrusion member 41 along the thickness direction of the frame 12, thus facilitating the placement of the head of the rotating member within the receiving groove 411.

[0064] In some examples, the receiving groove 411 includes a first groove and a second groove. The second groove is located on the side of the first groove away from the protruding structure and along a second direction F2. The size of the second groove is larger than that of the first groove. The second direction F2 is perpendicular to the first direction F1 and perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure 2 and the bearing structure 1. The rod of the rotating member passes through the first groove, and the head of the rotating member is located in the second groove. Thus, the inner wall of the second groove can limit the head, ensuring the stability of the head of the rotating member within the receiving groove 411.

[0065] With the above configuration, when the rod of the rotating component rotates in the threaded hole 11, the head of the rotating component can rotate synchronously in the receiving groove 411, and the rotating component can move linearly relative to the bearing structure 1 along the first direction F1 to drive the extruder 41 to extrude the battery cell module. Specifically, by providing the receiving groove 411 on the extruder 41, the head of the rotating component is positioned within the receiving groove 411 and can rotate within it. The receiving groove 411 can limit the head of the rotating component, thereby achieving a transmission connection between the rotating component and the extruder 41. This makes the connection between the rotating component and the extruder 41 more reliable, thus improving the reliability of the restraint device 10.

[0066] In some other embodiments, the extruder 41 may not have a receiving groove 411, and the rotating member and the extruder 41 may be connected by magnetic attraction.

[0067] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 The space between the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 is a accommodating space, which is used to accommodate the battery cell module, thereby facilitating the clamping of the battery cell module by the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3.

[0068] The extrusion member 41 includes a main body 412, a first extrusion part 413 and a second extrusion part 414. The rotating member is connected to the main body 412 in a transmission manner. The first extrusion part 413 and the second extrusion part 414 are both connected to the side of the main body 412 near the accommodating space. The first extrusion part 413 and the second extrusion part 414 are spaced apart along the second direction F2 for extruding the battery cell module. The second direction F2 is perpendicular to the first direction F1 and perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure 2 and the bearing structure 1.

[0069] For example, along the first direction F1, both ends of the cell module are provided with mounting end plates. During the production of the battery pack, the mounting end plates can serve as auxiliary components to facilitate the installation of the cell module into the housing. To ensure the strength of the mounting end plates, reinforcing ribs are provided on the mounting end plates, which results in the side of the cell module not being flat along the first direction F1.

[0070] The extrusion member 41 includes a main body 412, a first extrusion part 413, and a second extrusion part 414, which are spaced apart along the second direction F2 to extrude the battery cell module. This spaced arrangement of the first extrusion part 413 and the second extrusion part 414 creates a clearance space, allowing for better contact with the battery cell module and subsequent extrusion.

[0071] Furthermore, the battery pack may include multiple cell modules, which are arranged along the second direction F2. The first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 can simultaneously clamp multiple cell modules. The extrusion member 41 includes a first extrusion part 413 and a second extrusion part 414 spaced apart. The first extrusion part 413 and the second extrusion part 414 can extrude different cell modules respectively, thereby facilitating the simultaneous extrusion of multiple cell modules and improving the extrusion efficiency of the cell modules.

[0072] In some examples, the main body 412, the first extrusion part 413, and the second extrusion part 414 can be plate-like structures, block-like structures, etc.

[0073] In some other embodiments, the extruder 41 may also include only the main body 412. It is understood that the extrusion of the battery cell module can also be completed by the main body 412 contacting the battery cell module on the side close to the battery cell module along the first direction F1.

[0074] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 The first limiting structure 2 includes a limiting body 21 and a resistance reducing structure 22. The limiting body 21 is connected to the bearing structure 1, and the resistance reducing structure 22 is connected to the side of the limiting body 21 near the second limiting structure 3 for contacting the battery cell module.

[0075] For example, in order to clamp and limit the battery cell module, the distance between the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 along the first direction F1 is adapted to the size of the battery cell module. In this way, when the battery cell module is installed into the restraint device 10, the battery cell module enters the accommodating space between the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 along the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure 2 and the bearing structure 1. During this process, both the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 will come into contact with the battery cell module, and friction will exist.

[0076] By setting the first limiting structure 2, which includes a limiting body 21 and a resistance-reducing structure 22, and the resistance-reducing structure 22 is used to contact the battery cell module, the friction between the first limiting structure 2 and the battery cell module can be reduced by the resistance-reducing structure 22, making it easier to smoothly put the battery cell module into the restraint device 10, improving the ease of use of the restraint device 10, and reducing the wear caused to the battery cell module.

[0077] In some other embodiments, the first limiting structure 2 may consist only of the limiting body 21, which also allows the battery cell module to be placed into the restraint device 10.

[0078] In some embodiments, the drag-reducing structure 22 includes a rolling element rotatably connected to the limiting body 21. Thus, when the battery cell module is assembled into the restraint device 10, the rolling element can roll relative to the battery cell module, thereby changing the sliding friction between the battery cell module and the first limiting structure 2 into rolling friction, which can reduce the friction between the first limiting structure 2 and the battery cell module and improve the ease of use of the restraint device 10.

[0079] In some examples, the rolling element can be a plurality of rollers rotatably connected to the limiting body 21. The rollers can rotate about the axis of the rollers relative to the limiting body 21. The axis of the rollers is consistent with the second direction F2. The plurality of rollers are arranged along the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure 2 and the bearing structure 1.

[0080] In other examples, the rolling element can be a plurality of balls rotatably connected to the limiting body 21. The balls can rotate in multiple directions on the limiting body 21, and the plurality of balls can be arranged in a matrix.

[0081] In some examples, the limiting body 21 can be a block structure, a plate structure, etc.

[0082] In some other embodiments, the resistance-reducing structure 22 may be a friction-reducing coating, such as a molybdenum disulfide coating and a graphite coating, applied to the side of the limiting body 21 that is adapted to contact the battery cell module.

[0083] In some embodiments, the first limiting structure 2 is provided with a first connecting hole, for example, the first connecting hole is formed in the limiting body 21.

[0084] The bearing structure 1 is provided with a second connecting hole, and the restraint device 10 also includes a first fastener. The first fastener passes through the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole to connect the first limiting structure 2 and the bearing structure 1. Along the first direction F1, the size of the first connecting hole is larger than the size of the first fastener.

[0085] As can be seen from the foregoing, the size of the battery cell module may increase along the first direction F1, that is, the size of different battery cell modules is different along the first direction F1.

[0086] In this way, when replacing the battery pack casing, the dimensions of the cell module in the first direction F1 can be measured first. Then, the position of the first limiting structure 2 on the supporting structure 1 can be adjusted according to these dimensions to ensure that the distance between the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 matches the dimensions of the cell module in the first direction F1. Specifically, a first connecting hole is opened on the first limiting structure 2, and a second connecting hole is opened on the supporting structure 1. The size of the first connecting hole is set to be larger than the size of the first fastener along the first direction F1. After the first fastener passes through the first and second connecting holes, the first limiting structure 2 is moved along the first direction F1 according to the dimensions of the cell module in the first direction F1, that is, the position of the first fastener in the second connecting hole is adjusted until the distance between the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 matches the dimensions of the cell module in the first direction F1. Then, the first fastener is tightened to fix the first limiting structure 2. This allows the restraint device 10 to adapt to battery modules with different expansion amounts, improving the applicability of the restraint device 10. It also ensures the connection stability of the first limiting structure 2 on the bearing structure 1, thereby ensuring the stability of the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 in clamping the battery module. In particular, if vibration occurs during the transfer process after the restraint device 10 clamps the battery module, the restraint device 10 of this application can still stably clamp the battery module.

[0087] In some examples, the first fastener can be a bolt, screw, etc.

[0088] In other embodiments, the first limiting structure 2 is provided with a groove, and the supporting structure 1 is provided with a slide rail. The slide rail is located in the groove and can move in the groove along a first direction F1 to adjust the fixed position of the first limiting structure 2 on the supporting member. The restraint device 10 also includes a screw connected to the first limiting structure 2 and capable of abutting against the slide rail, so as to restrict the sliding of the first limiting structure 2 relative to the supporting structure 1 after the position of the first limiting structure 2 is adjusted, that is, to fix the first limiting structure 2.

[0089] In some other embodiments, the size of the first connecting hole along the first direction F1 may also be equal to the size of the first fastener.

[0090] In some examples, the structural shape of the second limiting structure 3 can be the same as that of the first limiting structure 2. The connection method between the second limiting structure 3 and the supporting structure 1 can also be the same as the connection method between the first limiting structure 2 and the supporting structure 1, which will not be described in detail in this application.

[0091] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 The number of first limiting structures 2 is multiple, and the multiple first limiting structures 2 are arranged at intervals along the second direction F2. The extrusion structure 4 is arranged between two adjacent first limiting structures 2.

[0092] By setting multiple first limiting structures 2 along the second direction F2, the multiple first limiting structures 2, together with the second limiting structure 3, can provide more balanced and reliable clamping and limiting of the battery cell module, thereby improving the reliability of the restraint device 10. Placing the extrusion structure 4 between two adjacent first limiting structures 2 can make reasonable use of the space on the bearing structure 1, thereby reducing the volume of the restraint device 10 and facilitating its use.

[0093] In some examples, there may be multiple second limiting structures 3, which are spaced apart along the second direction F2.

[0094] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 The supporting structure 1 includes a frame 12 and multiple support members 13. The multiple support members 13 are spaced apart on the inner side of the frame 12 and connected to the frame 12 for supporting the battery cell module. The first limiting structure 2, the second limiting structure 3 and the extrusion structure 4 are all connected to the frame 12.

[0095] In this way, after the battery cell module is assembled into the restraint device 10, the support member 13 can support the battery cell module, thus preventing the battery cell module from falling out of the restraint device 10 due to insufficient friction between the battery cell module and the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3. This improves the reliability of the restraint device 10.

[0096] In some examples, the support member 13 can be a plate-like structure or a rod-like structure, etc.

[0097] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 The restraint device 10 also includes a first guide member 5 and a second guide member 6 connected to the support structure 1. The first guide member 5 and the second guide member 6 are spaced apart along the second direction F2. For example, the first guide member 5 and the second guide member 6 are both connected to the frame 12 to guide the battery cell module into the space between the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3.

[0098] For example, there is a gap between the damaged battery pack housing and the cell module. By providing a first guide 5 and a second guide 6 at intervals in the restraint device 10, the first guide 5 and the second guide 6 can be inserted into the gap between the damaged battery pack housing and the cell module, so as to provide guidance when the cell module is put into the restraint device 10 from the damaged battery pack housing, thereby facilitating the placement of the cell module into the restraint device 10.

[0099] In some examples, the first guide 5 and the second guide 6 can be plate-like structures or rod-like structures, etc.

[0100] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 The restraint device 10 also includes a third limiting structure 7, which is detachably connected to the first guide 5 and / or the second guide 6, for limiting the battery cell module on the side of the battery cell module away from the support structure 1.

[0101] For example, after the battery cell module is placed from the damaged battery pack housing into the restraint device 10, it will flip along with the restraint device 10 during the process of placing it into a new housing. By providing a third limiting structure 7 on the first guide 5 and / or the second guide 6 to limit the battery cell module on the side away from the supporting structure 1, it can be ensured that the battery cell module will not fall out of the restraint device 10 when it flips along with the restraint device 10, thus improving the reliability of the restraint device 10. Furthermore, the third limiting structure 7 is detachably connected to the first guide 5 and / or the second guide 6, so that it can be removed before placing the battery cell module into a new housing to avoid interference with the battery cell module.

[0102] In some examples, the third limiting structure 7 can be a rod-shaped structure, a plate-shaped structure, etc.

[0103] In some embodiments, the first guide member 5 is provided with a third connecting hole, and the supporting structure 1 is provided with a fourth connecting hole. The restraint device 10 further includes a second fastener, which passes through the third connecting hole and the fourth connecting hole to connect the first guide member 5 and the supporting structure 1. Along the second direction F2, the size of the third connecting hole is larger than the size of the second fastener.

[0104] In this way, when replacing the battery pack casing, the dimensions of the cell module in the second direction F2 can be measured first. Then, the position of the first guide 5 on the supporting structure 1 can be adjusted according to these dimensions to ensure that the distance between the first guide 5 and the second guide 6 matches the dimensions of the cell module in the second direction F2. Specifically, a third connecting hole is opened on the first guide 5, and a fourth connecting hole is opened on the supporting structure 1. The size of the third connecting hole is set to be larger than the size of the second fastener along the second direction F2. After the second fastener passes through the third and fourth connecting holes, the first guide 5 is moved along the second direction F2 according to the dimensions of the cell module in the second direction F2, i.e., the position of the second fastener in the third connecting hole is adjusted until the distance between the first guide 5 and the second guide 6 matches the dimensions of the cell module in the second direction F2. Then, the second fastener is tightened to fix the first guide 5. This facilitates the insertion of the first guide 5 into the gap between the casing and the cell module, improving the applicability of the restraint device 10.

[0105] In some examples, the second fastener can be a bolt, screw, etc.

[0106] In some examples, the connection method between the second guide member 6 and the supporting structure 1 is the same as the connection method between the first guide member 5 and the supporting structure 1. In other examples, the connection method between the second guide member 6 and the supporting structure 1 is different from the connection method between the first guide member 5 and the supporting structure 1. In this application, the example is provided where the connection method between the second guide member 6 and the supporting structure 1 is the same as the connection method between the first guide member 5 and the supporting structure 1.

[0107] In some examples, see Figure 1 The restraint device 10 also includes a lifting structure 8, which is rotatably connected to the supporting structure 1. The lifting structure 8 facilitates the lifting of the entire restraint device 10, making it easier to move the battery cell module using the restraint device 10, thus further improving the ease of use of the restraint device 10.

[0108] In some embodiments, see Figures 3 to 8 This application also provides a method for replacing a battery pack housing, wherein any of the aforementioned restraint devices 10 is employed. The replacement method includes: S1: The first battery pack is subjected to freezing treatment. The first battery pack is a battery pack with all components except the casing, cell module and bottom protection plate removed. S2: Remove the bottom protective plate from the first battery pack; S3: Flip the first battery pack so that the terminals of the cell modules in the first battery pack face downwards; S4: Move the restraint device 10 to the lower side of the first battery pack and assemble the battery cell mold of the first battery pack into the restraint device 10; S5: Flip the restraint device 10 so that the terminal post of the battery cell module inside the restraint device 10 faces upward; S6: Move the restraint device 10 to the upper side of the new housing and assemble the cell module into the new housing to form a second battery pack.

[0109] For example, polyurethane thermally conductive structural adhesive is typically used to connect the cell module to the bottom cover plate, thereby fixing the cell module in the housing. To separate the bottom cover plate from the cell module, the first battery pack can be frozen, taking advantage of the properties of polyurethane thermally conductive structural adhesive, namely that the adhesive becomes more brittle at lower temperatures. This facilitates the separation of the bottom cover plate from the cell module.

[0110] By using the above replacement method and the restraint device 10 to transfer the battery cell module from the first battery pack to the new housing, the operation is time-saving and labor-saving, and the battery cell module can be reused, which helps to reduce the vehicle's maintenance costs.

[0111] Furthermore, compared to the method in related technologies that uses a descaling agent to separate the battery cell module from the bottom cover, the method provided in this application can avoid the descaling agent from damaging the blue film on the individual battery cell in the battery cell module (for example, causing the blue film to break or fall off). Since the descaling agent is usually harmful to the human body and the natural environment, the method of this application can also avoid the harm of the descaling agent to the human body and the natural environment.

[0112] In some examples, the freezing temperature can be greater than or equal to -60°C and less than or equal to -40°C, such as -60°C, -50°C, or -40°C, and the freezing time can be greater than or equal to 6 hours and less than or equal to 8 hours, such as 6 hours, 7 hours, or 8 hours.

[0113] In some examples, short-circuit protection measures can be taken for the terminals in the cell module before step S1, for example, by wrapping the terminals with insulating tape. This prevents short circuits in the cell module during battery pack replacement, thus improving the safety of the replacement process.

[0114] In some examples, before step S4, the length and width dimensions of the battery cell module can be measured, and the distance between the first limiting structure 2 and the second limiting structure 3 in the restraint device 10 can be adjusted accordingly to adapt to the length dimension of the battery cell module. Similarly, the distance between the first guide member 5 and the second guide member 6 in the restraint device 10 can be adjusted to adapt to the width dimension of the battery cell module. This facilitates the assembly of the battery cell module into the restraint device 10.

[0115] In some examples, see Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 8 In step S4, pressure can be applied to the battery cell module by the first pressure applying device 20 to press the battery cell module from the housing into the restraint device 10. The first pressure applying device 20 can be a hydraulic push rod or an electric push rod, etc.

[0116] In some examples, before step S6, the dimensions of the battery module in the first direction F1 can be compared with the dimensions of the new housing. When the dimensions of the battery module in the first direction F1 are larger than the dimensions of the new housing, the dimensions of the battery module can be adjusted using the extrusion structure 4 in the restraint device 10 to adapt them to the dimensions of the new housing. For example, if the dimensions of the battery module are still larger than the dimensions of the new housing after adjustment using the extrusion structure 4, the height of the reinforcing rib 301 on the mounting end plate 30 can be reduced using a tool (see [reference]). Figure 7 This allows the size of the battery cell module to be adapted to the size of the new housing.

[0117] In some examples, see Figure 6and Figure 8 In step S6, pressure can be applied to the battery cell module by the second pressure device 40 to press the battery cell module from the restraint device 10 into the new housing. The second pressure device 40 can be a hydraulic push rod or an electric push rod, etc.

[0118] It should be understood that the application of this application is not limited to the examples above. Those skilled in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims. Those skilled in the art can understand that implementing all or part of the processes of the above embodiments and making equivalent changes according to the claims of this application still fall within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A restraint device, characterized in that, It includes a support structure (1), a first limiting structure (2), a second limiting structure (3) and a compression structure (4). The support structure (1) is used to support the battery cell module. The first limiting structure (2) and the second limiting structure (3) are spaced apart on the support structure (1) to clamp and limit the battery cell module. The extrusion structure (4) is slidably connected to the bearing structure (1) along the first direction (F1) for extruding the battery cell module from one side of the battery cell module in the first direction (F1), where the first direction (F1) is the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure (2) and the second limiting structure (3).

2. The restraint device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extrusion structure (4) includes a rotating component and an extrusion component (41). The extrusion component (41) is slidably connected to the bearing structure (1) along the first direction (F1) for extruding the battery cell module. The rotating component is rotatably connected to the bearing structure (1) and is drively connected to the extrusion component (41) for driving the extrusion component (41) to move along the first direction (F1).

3. The restraint device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bearing structure (1) is provided with a threaded hole (11), and the axial direction of the threaded hole (11) is consistent with the first direction (F1); The rotating component is provided with an external thread, the rotating component passes through the threaded hole (11), and the external thread is threadedly connected to the threaded hole (11). The rotating component is rotatably connected to the extrusion component (41).

4. The restraint device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The extrusion (41) is provided with a receiving groove (411). The rotating component includes a rod and a head. The rod is provided with the external thread and passes through the threaded hole (11). The head is connected to the rod and is located in the receiving groove (411) and can rotate in the receiving groove (411).

5. The restraint device according to any one of claims 2-4, characterized in that, The space between the first limiting structure (2) and the second limiting structure (3) is a accommodating space; The extrusion member (41) includes a main body (412), a first extrusion part (413), and a second extrusion part (414). The rotating member is connected to the main body (412) in a transmission manner. The first extrusion part (413) and the second extrusion part (414) are both connected to the side of the main body (412) near the accommodating space. The first extrusion part (413) and the second extrusion part (414) are spaced apart along a second direction (F2) for extruding the battery cell module. The second direction (F2) is perpendicular to the first direction (F1) and perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure (2) and the bearing structure (1).

6. The restraint device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The first limiting structure (2) includes a limiting body (21) and a resistance reducing structure (22). The limiting body (21) is connected to the bearing structure (1), and the resistance reducing structure (22) is connected to the side of the limiting body (21) near the second limiting structure (3) for contacting the battery cell module.

7. The restraint device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The drag-reducing structure (22) includes a rolling element rotatably connected to the limiting body (21).

8. The restraint device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The first limiting structure (2) is provided with a first connecting hole, and the bearing structure (1) is provided with a second connecting hole; The restraint device (10) further includes a first fastener, which passes through the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole to connect the first limiting structure (2) and the bearing structure (1). Along the first direction (F1), the size of the first connecting hole is larger than the size of the first fastener.

9. The restraint device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The number of the first limiting structures (2) is multiple, and the multiple first limiting structures (2) are spaced apart along the second direction (F2). The second direction (F2) is perpendicular to the first direction (F1) and perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first limiting structures (2) and the bearing structure (1); the extrusion structure (4) is disposed between two adjacent first limiting structures (2); And / or, the supporting structure (1) includes a frame (12) and a plurality of support members (13), the plurality of support members (13) are spaced apart on the inner side of the frame (12) and connected to the frame (12) for supporting the battery cell module, and the first limiting structure (2), the second limiting structure (3) and the extrusion structure (4) are all connected to the frame (12).

10. The restraint device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, It also includes a first guide (5) and a second guide (6) connected to the bearing structure (1). The first guide (5) and the second guide (6) are spaced apart along a second direction (F2) to guide the battery cell module into the space between the first limiting structure (2) and the second limiting structure (3). The second direction (F2) is perpendicular to the first direction (F1) and perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first limiting structure (2) and the bearing structure (1).

11. The restraint device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The restraint device (10) further includes a third limiting structure (7), which is detachably connected to the first guide (5) and / or the second guide (6) for limiting the battery cell module on the side of the battery cell module away from the bearing structure (1). And / or, the first guide (5) is provided with a third connecting hole, and the bearing structure (1) is provided with a fourth connecting hole; the restraint device (10) further includes a second fastener, which passes through the third connecting hole and the fourth connecting hole to connect the first guide (5) and the bearing structure (1), and along the second direction (F2), the size of the third connecting hole is larger than the size of the second fastener.

12. A method for replacing a battery pack housing, characterized in that, The method of replacing the restraint device according to any one of claims 1-11 includes: The first battery pack is subjected to freezing treatment. The first battery pack is a battery pack with all components except the casing, cell module and bottom protective plate removed. Remove the bottom protective plate from the first battery pack; Flip the first battery pack so that the terminals of the cell modules in the first battery pack face downwards; Move the restraint device (10) to the lower side of the first battery pack and assemble the cell module of the first battery pack into the restraint device (10). Flip the restraint device (10) so that the terminal post of the battery cell module inside the restraint device (10) faces upward; Move the restraint device (10) to the upper side of the new housing and assemble the cell module into the new housing to form a second battery pack.

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