Connection end cap, housing, battery cell and vehicle

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of battery, and especially relates to a connecting end cover, a shell, a battery cell and a vehicle. The connecting end cover comprises an upper cover plate and a terminal module; the middle part of the upper cover plate is recessed to form an inner recess part towards the electrode module, and the two sides of the upper cover plate are formed into outer protruding parts; the terminal module is installed in the inner recess part, the part of the terminal module located on the side of the upper cover plate away from the electrode module is arranged in the recessed space formed by the recess of the inner recess part, and the part of the terminal module located on the side of the upper cover plate close to the electrode module extends into the protruding space formed by the protrusion of the outer protruding part for being connected with the tab. The shell comprises the connecting end cover. The battery cell comprises the shell. The vehicle comprises the battery cell. The present application provides a connecting end cover, a shell, a battery cell and a vehicle, so as to shorten the length of the battery cell on the basis of having a tab accommodating space in the interior of the connecting end cover and having an outer protruding terminal module outside the connecting end cover, thereby improving the volume energy density of the battery cell.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery technology, and more particularly to a connecting end cap, casing, battery cell, and vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In existing battery cell designs, a battery cell typically includes a housing, a connecting end cap, and an electrode module. The electrode module is housed within the housing, and the connecting end cap is fitted onto one end of the housing. A terminal module is threaded through the connecting end cap. The portion of the terminal module located outside the connecting end cap is used for connection to external electrical components, while the portion located inside the connecting end cap is used for contact connection with the tabs of the electrode module, thereby achieving electrical conductivity between the inside and outside of the battery cell.

[0003] However, in the above structure, since the terminal module needs to extend into the connection end cover to connect with the electrode tab, space must be reserved inside the connection end cover to accommodate the electrode tab. At the same time, in order to meet the convenience and safety of external electrical connections, the part of the terminal module located outside the connection end cover also needs to maintain a certain protrusion height. This space occupation requirement on both the inner and outer sides results in a significant increase in the overall axial length of the battery cell. The increase in battery cell length not only reduces the volumetric energy density of the battery cell, but also squeezes the valuable installation space inside the battery cell or terminal equipment, which is not conducive to the lightweight and compact design of the whole device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The first objective of this invention is to provide a connecting end cap that, based on having at least an electrode receiving space inside the connecting end cap and an outwardly protruding terminal module outside the connecting end cap, shortens the length of the battery cell, thereby increasing the volumetric energy density of the battery cell.

[0005] A second objective of the present invention is to provide a housing that, based on having at least a tab receiving space inside the connecting end cap and an outwardly protruding terminal module outside the connecting end cap, shortens the length of the battery cell, thereby increasing the volumetric energy density of the battery cell.

[0006] A third objective of the present invention is to provide a battery cell that, based on having at least a tab receiving space inside the connecting end cap and an outwardly protruding terminal module outside the connecting end cap, shortens the length of the battery cell, thereby increasing the volumetric energy density of the battery cell.

[0007] A fourth objective of the present invention is to provide a vehicle that, based on having an electrode receiving space inside the connecting end cover and an outwardly protruding terminal module outside the connecting end cover, shortens the length of the battery cell, thereby increasing the volumetric energy density of the battery cell.

[0008] Based on the aforementioned first objective, the present invention provides a connecting end cap for a battery cell, the battery cell including a housing having a first opening and an electrode module disposed within the housing, the connecting end cap being disposed over the first opening; The connecting end cover includes an upper cover plate and a terminal module; The middle part of the upper cover plate is recessed towards the electrode module to form an inner recess, and both sides of the upper cover plate protrude away from the inner recess and towards the electrode module to form an outer protrusion. The electrode tabs of the electrode module correspond to the outer protrusions. The terminal module is installed in the recessed portion. The portion of the terminal module located on the side of the upper cover plate away from the electrode module is disposed in the recessed space formed by the recess of the recessed portion relative to the convex portion. The portion of the terminal module located on the side of the upper cover plate close to the electrode module extends into the convex space formed by the convex portion relative to the recessed portion, for connection with the tab.

[0009] Furthermore, the terminal module includes an external connector, a conductive post, and an internal connector, with the conductive post penetrating the recessed portion; The external connector is located on the side of the upper cover plate away from the electrode module, within the recessed space, and is connected to the conductive post. The inner connector is located on the side of the upper cover plate near the electrode module. One end of the connector is connected to the conductive post, and the other end extends into the protruding space for connection with the tab.

[0010] Furthermore, the upper cover plate also includes an inclined portion disposed between the outward protrusion and the inward concave portion; The inner connector includes a first connecting part, a second connecting part, and a third connecting part connected in sequence. The first connecting part is connected to the conductive post and extends along the concave portion. The second connecting part extends along the inclined portion. The third connecting part extends along the convex portion and is used to connect with the tab.

[0011] Furthermore, the connection end cover also includes an upper insulating layer, which is disposed on the side of the upper cover plate near the electrode module and extends along the surface of the upper cover plate. The inner connector is electrically isolated from the upper cover plate through the upper insulating layer.

[0012] Furthermore, the terminal module further includes an external insulating component disposed between the external connector and the upper cover plate; and / or, the terminal module further includes a sealing ring disposed between the contact surface of the conductive post and the recessed portion.

[0013] Furthermore, the terminal module is provided in two sets, and the conductive posts of the two sets of terminal modules are all disposed in the recessed portion. The two internal connectors of the two sets of terminal modules are respectively used to connect with the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab of the electrode module.

[0014] By adopting the above technical solution, the connecting end cap of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: When the battery cell is assembled, the tabs of the electrode module extend into the protruding space formed by the protrusion of the outer protrusion and connect with the part of the terminal module located on the upper cover plate near the electrode module, so as to realize the electrical conduction between the electrode module and the terminal module. The part of the terminal module located on the upper cover plate away from the electrode module is used to connect external electrical components, forming a complete electrical path.

[0015] Specifically, the concave portion is recessed towards the electrode module, and the terminal module is installed within the concave portion. This positions the portion of the terminal module on the side of the upper cover plate furthest from the electrode module closer to the electrode module. Consequently, this portion of the terminal module on the upper cover plate furthest from the electrode module either does not protrude beyond the outer surface of the convex portion, is flush with the outer surface of the convex portion, or protrudes beyond the outer surface of the convex portion by a smaller size. In other words, the height of the terminal module protruding relative to the outer surface of the upper cover plate is reduced, thus reducing the additional axial space occupied by the terminal module on the external side of the battery cell. Simultaneously, the convex portion protrudes away from the electrode module relative to the concave portion, creating a protruding space within the convex portion for accommodating the electrode module's tabs. At this point, the electrode module's tabs correspond to the convex portion, and the portion of the terminal module on the upper cover plate closest to the electrode module extends into the protruding space and connects with the tabs, thus achieving the connection between the electrode module's tabs and the terminal module.

[0016] In other words, in the connecting end cap of the present invention, the outer protrusion of the upper cover plate protrudes in the direction away from the electrode module, forming a corresponding protruding space on the inner side. The inner part of the terminal module extends into this protruding space, and the tab is also bent and welded within this protruding space. This ensures that the space required for the tab connection is entirely provided by the protruding space of the outer protrusion, eliminating the need for an additional independent space inside the connecting end cap and preventing an increase in the axial length of the battery cell. Furthermore, the upper cover plate is recessed towards the electrode module, forming a corresponding recessed space on the outer side of the upper cover plate. The outer part of the terminal module is disposed in this recessed space, reducing the height of the outer part of the terminal module above the top surface of the outer protrusion, and even allowing it to be completely sunk into the recessed space. This reduces the axial length increase caused by the abrupt protrusion of the terminal module on the surface of the connecting end cap, while also reducing the risk of damage to the outer part of the terminal module from external impacts.

[0017] In summary, in the connecting end cover of the present invention, the terminal module is installed in the recessed portion of the upper cover plate, with the portion located on the outer side of the upper cover plate disposed in the recessed space formed by the recessed portion, and the portion located on the inner side of the upper cover plate extending into the protruding space formed by the protruding outer portion. Since the recessed space of the recessed portion and the protruding space of the protruding outer portion overlap at least partially in the axial direction, the external connection portion of the terminal module and the electrode connection portion form a space reuse in the axial direction, thereby reducing the axial length of the battery cell and improving the energy density of the battery cell. Under the same power demand, the battery pack using this solution is smaller in size and lighter in weight, which is beneficial to the lightweighting of the whole vehicle and the optimization of space layout. Under the same installation space, more or larger capacity battery cells can be accommodated, improving the driving range.

[0018] Based on the second objective mentioned above, the present invention provides an outer casing, which includes a housing and the aforementioned connecting end cap, wherein the housing is provided with a first opening and the connecting end cap is disposed over the first opening; The housing has a groove near the first opening that matches the recessed portion. When the connecting end cap is placed over the first opening, the recessed portion is placed inside the groove.

[0019] Furthermore, the groove depth ranges from 0.5mm to 5mm.

[0020] Furthermore, the housing also includes a sealing end cap, and the housing is further provided with a second opening opposite to the first opening, with the sealing end cap covering the second opening; The sealing end cap is provided with a burst valve and / or a liquid injection port.

[0021] Furthermore, the sealing end cap includes a lower cover plate and a lower insulating layer disposed on the side of the lower cover plate near the connecting end cap; An exhaust channel is formed between the lower insulating layer and the lower cover plate. An exhaust hole communicating with the exhaust channel is provided on the lower insulating layer. The rupture valve and / or the liquid injection port are provided on the lower cover plate.

[0022] By adopting the above technical solution, the outer shell of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: By providing the aforementioned connection end cap within the housing, the housing thus possesses all the advantages of the aforementioned connection end cap, which will not be elaborated upon here.

[0023] Based on the aforementioned third objective, the present invention provides a battery cell, which includes an electrode module and the aforementioned housing, wherein the electrode module is disposed within the housing; The electrode module includes at least one electrode core, which is a wound electrode core or a stacked electrode core. When multiple electrode cores are provided, the multiple electrode cores may be the same or different.

[0024] Furthermore, the electrode module includes four electrode cores, namely a first wound core, a first stacked core, a second wound core, and a second stacked core. The tabs of the first wound core and the first stacked core are connected to form a first mixed electrode, and the tabs of the second wound core and the second stacked core are connected to form a second mixed electrode. The positive tabs of the first mixed electrode and the second mixed electrode are both connected to the inner connectors of a set of terminal modules on the connecting end cover, and the negative tabs of the first mixed electrode and the second mixed electrode are both connected to the inner connectors of another set of terminal modules on the connecting end cover.

[0025] Furthermore, in the first mixed electrode and the second mixed electrode, the first stacked core and the second stacked core are in contact, and both the first wound core and the second wound core are disposed close to the inner wall of the housing.

[0026] By adopting the above technical solution, the battery cell of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: By incorporating the aforementioned casing within the battery cell, the battery cell thus possesses all the advantages of the aforementioned casing, which will not be elaborated upon here.

[0027] Based on the fourth objective mentioned above, the present invention provides a vehicle that includes the aforementioned battery cell.

[0028] By adopting the above technical solution, the vehicle of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: By installing the aforementioned battery cells in the vehicle, the vehicle gains all the advantages of those battery cells, which will not be elaborated upon here. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery cell structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the battery cell structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 for Figure 2 A magnified view of the local structure of part A in the image; Figure 4 One of the cross-sectional views of a battery cell provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5for Figure 4 A magnified view of the local structure of part B in the image; Figure 6 A second cross-sectional view of a battery cell provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connecting end cap in the battery cell provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the connecting end cap in the battery cell provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 for Figure 8 A magnified view of the local structure of part C in the image; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sealing end cap in the battery cell provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the sealing end cap in the battery cell provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 for Figure 11 A magnified view of the local structure of part D in the image.

[0031] Figure label: 1-Connecting end cap; 2-Top cover plate; 21-Concave portion; 22-Protruding portion; 23-Inclined portion; 3-Terminal module; 31-External connector; 32-Conductive post; 33-Inner connector; 331-First connection part; 332-Second connection part; 333-Third connection part; 34-External insulation part; 35-Sealing ring; 4-Shell; 41-Groove; 5-Sealed end cap; 51-Lower cover plate; 52-Lower insulation layer; 521-Exhaust hole; 53-Exhaust channel; 6-Explosion valve; 7-Electrode module; 71-First mixed electrode; 711-First wound core; 712-First stacked core; 72-Second mixed electrode; 721-Second wound core; 722-Second stacked core; 8- Upper insulating layer; 91 - Positive electrode; 92 - Negative electrode. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The technical solution of the present invention will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0033] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0034] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0035] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 This embodiment provides a connecting end cap 1, which is used for a battery cell. The battery cell includes a housing 4 with a first opening and an electrode module 7 disposed inside the housing 4. The connecting end cap 1 is disposed on the first opening.

[0036] Among them, see Figure 7 and Figure 8 The connecting end cover 1 includes an upper cover plate 2 and a terminal module 3. The middle part of the upper cover plate 2 is recessed towards the electrode module 7 to form an inner recess 21, and both sides of the upper cover plate 2 protrude from the inner recess 21 away from the electrode module 7 to form an outer protrusion 22. The electrode tabs of the electrode module 7 correspond to the outer protrusions 22. The terminal module 3 is installed in the inner recess 21. The part of the terminal module 3 on the side of the upper cover plate 2 away from the electrode module 7 is disposed in the recessed space formed by the inner recess 21 and the outer protrusion 22. The part of the terminal module 3 on the side of the upper cover plate 2 close to the electrode module 7 extends into the protruding space formed by the outer protrusion 22 and the inner recess 21, for connection with the electrode tabs.

[0037] The portion of terminal module 3 located on the side of upper cover plate 2 away from electrode module 7 is used for connecting external electrical components, while the portion of terminal module 3 located on the side of upper cover plate 2 closer to electrode module 7 is used for connecting to electrode tabs.

[0038] Specifically, the terminal module 3 includes an external connector 31, a conductive post 32, and an internal connector 33. The conductive post 32 is disposed through the recessed portion 21. The external connector 31 is disposed on the side of the upper cover plate 2 away from the electrode module 7, located in the recessed space, and connected to the conductive post 32. The internal connector 33 is disposed on the side of the upper cover plate 2 close to the electrode module 7, with one end connected to the conductive post 32 and the other end extending into the protruding space for connection with the tab of the electrode module 7.

[0039] With this configuration, when the battery cell is assembled, the tabs of the electrode module 7 extend into the protruding space formed by the protrusion of the outer protrusion 22 and connect with the extension end of the inner connector 33, thereby achieving electrical conduction between the electrode module 7 and the terminal module 3. The outer connector 31 is used to connect external electrical components, and the outer connector 31 and the inner connector 33 are connected through the conductive post 32 to form a complete electrical path.

[0040] The concave portion 21 is recessed towards the electrode module 7, and the conductive post 32 is disposed in the concave portion 21. The portion of the conductive post 32 protruding from the upper cover plate 2 and the external connector 31 connected to the conductive post 32 are both positioned closer to the electrode module 7. This ensures that the conductive post 32 and the external connector 31 do not protrude beyond the outer surface of the protruding portion 22, are flush with the outer surface of the protruding portion 22, or protrude from the outer surface of the protruding portion 22 with a smaller size. In other words, the conductive post 32 and the external connector 31 protrude relative to the outer surface of the upper cover plate 2. The height of the protrusion is reduced, thus reducing the additional axial space occupied by the conductive post 32 and the external connector 31 on the outside of the battery cell. At the same time, the protrusion 22 protrudes away from the electrode module 7 relative to the concave part 21, so that the protrusion 22 has a protruding space for accommodating the electrode tab of the electrode module 7. At this time, the electrode tab of the electrode module 7 corresponds to the protrusion 22, the conductive post 32 is disposed in the concave part 21, and the internal connector 33 extends from the conductive post 32 to the protrusion 22 and connects with the electrode tab, realizing the connection between the electrode tab of the electrode module 7 and the conductive post 32.

[0041] In other words, in the connection end cover 1 of the present invention, the outer protrusion 22 of the upper cover plate 2 protrudes in the direction away from the electrode module 7, forming a corresponding protruding space on the inner side. The inner part of the terminal module 3 extends into this protruding space, and the electrode tab is also bent and welded within this protruding space. This ensures that the space required for electrode tab connection is entirely provided by the protruding space of the outer protrusion 22, eliminating the need for an additional independent space inside the connection end cover 1 and not increasing the axial length of the battery cell. Furthermore, the upper cover plate 2 is recessed towards the electrode module, forming a corresponding recessed space on the outer side of the upper cover plate. The outer part of the terminal module 3 is disposed in this recessed space, reducing the height of the outer part of the terminal module 3 above the top surface of the outer protrusion 22, and even allowing it to be completely sunk into the recessed space. This reduces the axial length increase caused by the abrupt protrusion of the terminal module 3 on the surface of the connection end cover 1, while also reducing the risk of damage to the outer part of the terminal module 3 from external impacts.

[0042] In summary, the connecting end cap 1 of the present invention, while ensuring internal space for accommodating the electrode tabs, allows the conductive post 32 and the external connector 31 connected to it to be moved closer to the electrode module 7 as a whole. This means that the conductive post 32 and the external connector 31 do not protrude from the outer surface of the upper cover plate 2, or protrude only with a very small size, significantly reducing the axial space occupied by the terminal module 3 on the external surface of the battery cell. Therefore, the present invention reduces the axial dimension requirements of the connecting end cap 1, significantly reduces the total length of the battery cell while ensuring the integrity of the electrical connection function, increases the volumetric energy density of the battery cell, and improves overall vibration resistance reliability due to its compact structure.

[0043] Please see Figure 8 and Figure 9 In any of the above embodiments, the upper cover plate 2 further includes an inclined portion 23 disposed between the outward protrusion 22 and the inward concave portion 21; the inner connector 33 includes a first connecting portion 331, a second connecting portion 332 and a third connecting portion 333 connected in sequence, the first connecting portion 331 is connected to the conductive post 32 and extends along the inward concave portion 21, the second connecting portion 332 extends along the inclined portion 23, the third connecting portion 333 extends along the outward protrusion 22, and the third connecting portion 333 is used to connect with the tab of the electrode module 7.

[0044] Optionally, the bottom surface of the recessed portion 21 is flat, and the first connecting portion 331 extends to fit the bottom surface of the recessed portion 21, achieving electrical connection through welding between the conductive post 32 and the first connecting portion 331. The third connecting portion 333 extends to fit the bottom surface of the protruding portion 22 and is used for ultrasonic welding or laser welding with the electrode tab. For example, the angle between the inclined portion 23 and the bottom surface of the upper cover plate 2 is 120°-150°, therefore the angle between the second connecting portion 332 and the first connecting portion 331 is 120°-150°, so as to optimize the transition path length of the inner connector 33 while ensuring the bending space of the electrode tab.

[0045] This configuration, by providing a recessed portion 21 in the middle of the upper cover plate 2 to accommodate the conductive post 32, and forming outward protrusions 22 on both sides to accommodate the bending space of the electrode tabs, allows the inner connector 33 to extend along the path of the recessed portion 21, the inclined portion 23 and the outward protrusions 22. The installation space of the conductive post 32 and the connection space of the electrode tabs overlap and reuse in the length direction of the battery cell, thereby reducing the size of the connecting end cover 1 in the length direction of the battery cell, correspondingly shortening the overall length of the battery cell, and significantly improving the volumetric energy density.

[0046] Furthermore, the first connecting portion 331, the second connecting portion 332, and the third connecting portion 333 of the inner connector 33 extend along the surfaces of the concave portion 21, the inclined portion 23, and the convex portion 22, respectively, and completely conform to the contour of the upper cover plate 2. This design allows the inner connector 33 to form a smooth current transmission path between the conductive post 32 and the tab, without sharp bends or suspended sections, avoiding the risk of fatigue fracture of the inner connector 33 during long-term vibration or thermal expansion and contraction. At the same time, the conformal extension method makes the insulation gap between the inner connector 33 and the upper cover plate 2 controllable, which is beneficial for the arrangement of insulating components and the guarantee of insulation distance.

[0047] Furthermore, the concave portion 21, the inclined portion 23, and the convex portion 22 can be integrally formed through stamping, eliminating the need for additional splicing or welding processes. The three-section structure of the inner connector 33 can also be integrally formed through stamping and bending; during assembly, it can be directly inserted into the inner side of the upper cover plate 2 and extended to fit, without the need for complex positioning and alignment operations. This simple manufacturing process helps reduce production costs and improve product consistency.

[0048] Please see Figure 8 and Figure 9 In any of the above embodiments, the connecting end cover 1 further includes an upper insulating layer 8, which is disposed on the side of the upper cover plate 2 near the electrode module 7 and extends along the plate surface of the upper cover plate 2. The inner connector 33 is electrically isolated from the upper cover plate 2 through the upper insulating layer 8.

[0049] Preferably, the upper insulating layer 8 covers the inner recess 21, inclined portion 23 and outer protrusion 22 of the upper cover plate 2 on the side surface facing the electrode module 7, and the inner connector 33 is attached to the side surface of the upper insulating layer 8 away from the upper cover plate 2.

[0050] For example, the upper insulating layer 8 is an insulating film, which is fixed to the inner surface of the upper cover plate 2 by adhesive or hot pressing. The insulating film is made of polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polypropylene (PP). Alternatively, the upper insulating layer 8 is an insulating coating, which is formed on the inner surface of the upper cover plate 2 by spraying, dipping, or electrophoresis. The insulating coating is made of epoxy resin, polyurethane, or ceramic composite material.

[0051] Optionally, the upper insulating layer 8 has a clearance hole at the position corresponding to the conductive post 32, and the conductive post 32 passes through the clearance hole and connects to the first connecting part 331 of the inner connector 33.

[0052] This configuration, by providing an upper insulating layer 8 between the upper cover plate 2 and the inner connector 33, and extending along the surface of the upper cover plate 2 to cover the recessed portion 21, the inclined portion 23 and the convex portion 22, ensures that the inner connector 33 remains insulated from the upper cover plate 2 along the entire path extending along the contour of the connecting end cover 1. This effectively reduces accidental short circuits caused by vibration displacement of the inner connector 33 and lowers the risk of internal short circuits in the battery cell.

[0053] The upper insulating layer 8 can be formed by attaching an insulating film or spraying an insulating coating, a mature process that is easy to automate. The insulating film can be directly pasted onto the inside of the upper cover plate 2 after being cut and punched, without the need for complex positioning and fixing structures; the insulating coating can be formed in one step by spraying or electrophoresis.

[0054] Please see Figure 8 and Figure 9 In any of the above embodiments, the conductive post 32 penetrates the recessed portion 21, the outer connector 31 is connected to the portion of the conductive post 32 located on the side of the upper cover plate 2 away from the electrode module 7, and the inner connector 33 is connected to the portion of the conductive post 32 located on the side of the upper cover plate 2 close to the electrode module 7. The terminal module 3 further includes an outer insulating member 34 disposed between the outer connector 31 and the upper cover plate 2; and / or, the terminal module 3 further includes a sealing ring 35 disposed between the contact surfaces of the conductive post 32 and the upper cover plate 2.

[0055] For example, the terminal module 3 may also include an external insulating member 34, which is disposed between the external connector 31 and the upper cover plate 2; or the terminal module 3 may also include a sealing ring 35, which is disposed between the contact surface of the conductive post 32 and the upper cover plate 2.

[0056] Preferably, the terminal module 3 further includes an outer insulating member 34, which is disposed between the outer connector 31 and the upper cover plate 2; and the terminal module 3 further includes a sealing ring 35, which is disposed between the contact surface of the conductive post 32 and the upper cover plate 2.

[0057] The outer insulating component 34 and the sealing ring 35 can be integrally injection molded into a composite part, possessing both insulation and sealing functions. Alternatively, the outer insulating component 34 can be integrated with annular sealing ribs to achieve auxiliary sealing. This integrated design reduces the number of parts in the terminal module 3, lowers material management costs and assembly processes, and avoids the risk of omissions or misassemblies of multiple independent parts during assembly, thus improving production efficiency and product consistency.

[0058] For example, the outer insulating component 34 is sleeved around the outer periphery of the conductive post 32 and sandwiched between the bottom surface of the outer connector 31 and the outer surface of the recess 21 of the upper cover plate 2, to achieve electrical isolation between the outer connector 31 and the upper cover plate 2. The sealing ring 35 is sleeved around the outer periphery of the conductive post 32 and sandwiched between the outer peripheral wall of the conductive post 32 and the inner wall of the through hole in the recess 21 of the upper cover plate 2, to prevent external moisture or electrolyte inside the casing 4 from seeping in or out along the gap between the conductive post 32 and the upper cover plate 2.

[0059] This configuration, by setting an external insulating component 34 between the external connector 31 and the upper cover plate 2, completely isolates the external connector 31 and the upper cover plate 2 electrically. The external insulating component 34 is sandwiched between the two, which has a simple structure and reliable isolation. It can effectively avoid external short circuits of the battery caused by accidental contact between the external connector 31 and the upper cover plate 2, and improve the electrical safety performance of the battery cell.

[0060] Furthermore, a sealing ring 35 is provided between the contact surfaces of the conductive post 32 and the upper cover plate 2, forming a sealing barrier at the point where the conductive post 32 penetrates the upper cover plate 2. The sealing ring 35 can be made of fluororubber or EPDM material resistant to electrolyte corrosion, maintaining elastic sealing pressure throughout the battery's entire lifespan. This effectively prevents electrolyte inside the casing 4 from leaking outwards along the gap between the conductive post 32 and the upper cover plate 2, while also preventing external moisture from entering the casing 4 and causing performance degradation of the electrode module 7. The sealing fit between the sealing ring 35 and the contact surfaces of the conductive post 32 and the upper cover plate 2 is compact, requiring almost no additional space from the end cap.

[0061] Please see Figure 7 and Figure 8 and combined Figure 5 In any of the above embodiments, the terminal module 3 is provided with two sets, and the conductive posts 32 of the two sets of terminal modules 3 are both provided in the recessed portion 21. The two inner connectors 33 of the two sets of terminal modules 3 are respectively used to connect with the positive electrode tab 91 and the negative electrode tab 92 of the electrode module 7.

[0062] Specifically, the terminal module 3 is provided in two sets, namely the positive terminal sub-module 3 and the negative terminal sub-module 3. Two through holes are opened side by side on the bottom surface of the recessed part 21 of the upper cover plate 2. The positive conductive post 32 of the positive terminal sub-module 3 and the negative conductive post 32 of the negative terminal sub-module 3 are respectively inserted into the two through holes. The positive conductive post 32 and the negative conductive post 32 are arranged at intervals along the width direction of the upper cover plate 2.

[0063] See Figure 5The positive electrode inner connector 33 and the negative electrode inner connector 33 extend to the sides of the upper cover plate 2 respectively, that is, they extend to the left and right along the width direction of the upper cover plate 2, so that the positive electrode tab 91 and the negative electrode tab 92 are led out from the sides of the width direction of the electrode module 7 and connected to the corresponding inner connector 33 respectively, thereby achieving effective spatial separation of the positive and negative electrodes and avoiding short circuits between the tabs.

[0064] Optionally, the upper cover plate 2 has a recess 21, the bottom surface of which is oblong or rectangular. The positive and negative conductive posts 32 are arranged side-by-side along the length of the recess 21 on its bottom surface. The two sets of terminal modules 3 share the same recess 21, making the end cover structure more compact. Alternatively, the upper cover plate 2 has two independent recesses 21, spaced apart. The positive terminal module 3 is disposed in one recess 21, and the negative terminal module 3 is disposed in the other recess 21.

[0065] Preferably, the upper cover plate 2 has a recess 21. Compared with the scheme of setting two separate recesses 21, the two conductive posts 32 sharing a single recess 21 allows for the integrated design of components such as the outer insulating part 34 and the sealing ring 35, reducing the number of parts, simplifying the assembly process, and lowering material and manufacturing costs. At the same time, sharing the recess 21 also simplifies the stamping of the upper cover plate 2 and reduces the complexity of the stamping die.

[0066] Preferably, the positive and negative conductive posts 32 of the two sets of terminal modules 3 are disposed in the same recess 21, and the upper ends of the positive and negative conductive posts 32 are respectively connected to positive and negative external connectors 31. Both positive and negative external connectors 31 are flat aluminum or copper busbar connectors, with their top surfaces flush and neither exceeding the top surface of the outer protrusion 22 of the upper cover plate 2. This design makes the outer surface of the connection end cover 1 flat, which is beneficial for welding or bolting the busbars at the module level and avoids wasting module space due to excessive protrusion of the external connectors 31.

[0067] With this configuration, the conductive posts 32 of both sets of terminal modules 3 are located in the recessed portion 21 of the upper cover plate 2. The installation space of the positive conductive post 32 and the negative conductive post 32 is highly integrated in the same recessed area, rather than being set in different protrusions of the end cover or arranged in series along the length direction. This allows the two conductive posts 32 to be arranged compactly in the length direction, effectively reducing the total size of the connecting end cover 1 in the length direction of the battery cell, and further improving the space utilization rate in the length direction of the battery cell.

[0068] In addition, the conductive posts 32 of both sets of terminal modules 3 are located in the recessed portion 21, and the top surface of the outer connector 31 is not higher than the top surface of the outer protrusion 22 of the upper cover plate 2, making the outer surface of the connecting end cover 1 relatively flat. The positive electrode outer connector 31 and the negative electrode outer connector 31 are arranged side by side on the outer surface of the end cover, which facilitates laser welding or bolt connection with the external busbar without the need to raise the busbar or set up a clearance structure, which is conducive to the compact design of the module level.

[0069] Furthermore, the natural spacing between the two inner connectors 33 in the length direction effectively isolates them, ensuring the creepage distance and electrical clearance between the positive and negative electrodes, and guaranteeing the electrical safety of the battery cell in high-voltage application scenarios.

[0070] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The present invention also provides an outer shell, which includes a housing 4 and the aforementioned connecting end cap 1. The housing 4 is provided with a first opening, and the connecting end cap 1 is provided at the first opening. The housing 4 is provided with a groove 41 that matches the inner recess 21 near the first opening. When the connecting end cap 1 is provided at the first opening, the inner recess 21 is provided in the groove 41.

[0071] Specifically, the groove 41 is a partial recessed structure formed at the end of the housing 4 near the first opening. Its recessed direction is consistent with the recessed direction of the inner recess 21, and the outline shape of the groove 41 matches the outer outline shape of the inner recess 21. When the connecting end cap 1 is placed over the first opening, the bottom surface of the inner recess 21 protrudes further into the housing 4 and is embedded in the groove 41, so that the inner recess 21 is completely accommodated within the space defined by the groove 41.

[0072] This design, by providing a groove 41 near the first opening of the housing 4 that matches the recessed portion 21 of the connecting end cap 1, ensures that the recessed portion 21 of the connecting end cap 1 is embedded within the internal space of the housing 4 when it covers the first opening, rather than protruding outwards or occupying additional length space outside the housing 4. A conductive post 32 is provided within the recessed portion 21, and the conductive post 32 and its associated insulation and sealing structures are all housed within the space within the wall thickness of the housing 4, significantly reducing the overall length dimension of the battery cell and significantly improving its volumetric energy density.

[0073] The contour shape, depth and width of the groove 41 match the corresponding dimensions of the recess 21. After the recess 21 is embedded in the groove 41, it forms a close fit or a small gap fit, so that the connection interface between the connecting end cap 1 and the housing 4 at the first opening is stable and reliable.

[0074] Please see Figure 3 In any of the above embodiments, the groove depth of the groove 41 ranges from 0.5mm to 5mm.

[0075] For example, see Figure 3 The groove depth of groove 41 is a, and the value of a is 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, etc.

[0076] Optionally, the groove depth 'a' of the recess 41 is 0.5 mm. This groove depth is suitable for ultra-thin battery cells or scenarios where the embedding depth of the recess 21 is less critical, such as small energy storage cells with a total cell length ≤ 60 mm. In this case, the recess depth of the recess 21 is equal to the groove depth of the recess 41, which is 0.5 mm.

[0077] Optionally, the groove depth 'a' of the groove 41 is 3 mm. This groove depth is suitable for power battery cells of conventional sizes, such as those with a length range of 200 mm to 600 mm, with the inner recess 21 fully embedded in the groove 41.

[0078] Optionally, the groove depth 'a' of the groove 41 is 5 mm. This groove depth is suitable for long-sized battery cells, such as those with a length ≥ 600 mm, or high-voltage battery cells that require the accommodation of larger conductive posts 32 and thicker insulation sealing structures. The recess depth of the inner recess 21 is equal to the groove depth of the groove 41, which is 5 mm.

[0079] This design limits the depth of the groove 41 to between 0.5mm and 5mm, which accommodates the recessed portion 21 of the connecting end cap 1 without excessively weakening the wall thickness of the housing 4 at the opening. The lower limit of 0.5mm ensures that the recessed portion 21 can be effectively embedded inside the housing 4, resulting in substantial space saving in the length direction; the upper limit of 5mm avoids excessive thinning of the housing 4 wall thickness and a decrease in structural strength due to an excessively deep groove 41. This value range is applicable to the housing 4 wall thickness specifications of most power batteries and energy storage batteries, exhibiting good versatility and practicality.

[0080] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 4 In any of the above embodiments, the outer shell further includes a sealing end cap 5, and the housing 4 is also provided with a second opening opposite to the first opening, with the sealing end cap 5 covering the second opening; the sealing end cap 5 is provided with a burst valve 6 and / or a liquid injection port.

[0081] For example, the sealing end cap 5 may be provided with a burst valve 6, or a liquid injection port, or both a burst valve 6 and a liquid injection port. Preferably, the sealing end cap 5 is provided with both a burst valve 6 and a liquid injection port.

[0082] The burst valve 6 is used to release pressure when the internal pressure of the battery cell rises abnormally, preventing the battery cell from exploding. The electrolyte injection port is used to inject electrolyte into the housing 4 during the battery cell assembly process, and is sealed by sealing nails or welding after the injection is completed.

[0083] In other words, the connecting end cap 1 and the sealing end cap 5 are respectively located at both ends of the housing 4, and the electrode module 7 is located inside the housing 4. The electrode tabs of the electrode module 7 extend from the end near the connecting end cap 1 and connect to the third connecting part 333 of the inner connector 33 of the connecting end cap 1. The sealing end cap 5 does not have any electrode tab connection structure on the side facing the electrode module 7, and the end of the electrode module 7 near the sealing end cap 5 is a flat end face without electrode tabs.

[0084] This structure allows the sealing end cap 5 to only perform sealing, venting, and liquid injection functions, without needing to perform conductive connection functions. Therefore, the thickness of the sealing end cap 5 along the length of the cell can be significantly reduced to 1.5mm-5.0mm. The thin design of the sealing end cap 5 reduces the total structural space occupied by the cell along its length, providing more room for the electrode module 7.

[0085] Optionally, the outer surface of the sealing end cap 5, i.e. the side away from the electrode module 7, is a flat plane. This flat plane can be used for fixing and heat dissipation of the battery cell in the module. That is, the sealing end cap 5 is used as both a fixing surface and a heat dissipation surface.

[0086] This configuration, with the connecting end cap 1 and the sealing end cap 5 located at opposite ends of the housing 4, achieves thermoelectric separation and improves safety. Specifically, the connecting end cap 1 carries the positive and negative conductive posts 32 for electron conduction, while the sealing end cap 5 carries the rupture valve 6 for safety venting; the two are completely separated in space. This design ensures that the high-voltage conductive area of ​​the battery cell is located on the connecting end cap 1 side, and the high-temperature, high-pressure venting area is located on the sealing end cap 5 side, making them independent of each other. Even if the rupture valve 6 opens to vent under abnormal conditions, the high-temperature gas will not directly impact the posts and conductive connection structure, avoiding the risk of damage to the conductive structure or short circuit during venting, and significantly improving the thermoelectric safety performance of the battery cell.

[0087] In addition, the sealing end cap 5 does not need to be equipped with conductive post 32, internal connector 33 and electrode connection structure. It only needs to perform sealing, venting and liquid injection functions. Therefore, the thickness of the sealing end cap 5 in the length direction of the cell can be greatly reduced, thereby significantly reducing the structural components occupied by the sealing end cap 5 in the length direction, providing more space for the electrode module 7, and improving both the weight energy density and volume energy density of the cell.

[0088] Furthermore, by simultaneously mounting the rupture valve 6 and the injection port on the sealing end cap 5, the planar space of the sealing end cap 5 is fully utilized. The rupture valve 6 is used for safe pressure relief, and the injection port is used for electrolyte injection. The two are arranged side by side or spaced apart on the sealing end cap 5 without interfering with each other. This integrated functional design avoids the need for additional mounting holes in the connecting end cap 1 or other locations on the housing 4, reducing the number of openings on the housing 4 and helping to maintain the structural integrity and sealing reliability of the housing 4.

[0089] Finally, the outer surface of the sealing end cap 5 is a flat surface without any protruding conductive or connecting parts. It can be directly used as the fixing surface and heat dissipation surface of the battery cell in the module. Combined with the upper surface of the outer protrusion 22 of the connecting end cap 1 and the four sides of the battery cell, this solution achieves six-sided fixing and six-sided heat dissipation of the battery cell, and the heat dissipation performance and structural stability of the battery cell are significantly improved.

[0090] Please see Figure 11 and Figure 12 In any of the above embodiments, the sealing end cap 5 includes a lower cover plate 51 and a lower insulating layer 52 disposed on the side of the lower cover plate 51 near the connecting end cap 1; an exhaust channel 53 is formed between the lower insulating layer 52 and the lower cover plate 51, and so on. Figure 10 The lower insulation layer 52 is provided with an exhaust hole 521 that communicates with the exhaust channel 53, and the rupture valve 6 and / or the liquid injection port are provided on the lower cover plate 51.

[0091] Specifically, the lower cover plate 51 is a flat metal plate with a flat surface on the side facing the electrode module 7. The lower insulating layer 52 is an insulating plate or insulating film, which is attached to the side of the lower cover plate 51 facing the electrode module 7. The exhaust channel 53 extends along the surface of the lower cover plate 51 and connects the exhaust hole 521 on the lower insulating layer 52 with the explosion valve 6 on the lower cover plate 51.

[0092] Preferably, the lower insulating layer 52 has multiple vent holes 521, which are spaced apart along the surface of the lower insulating layer 52. The vent holes 521 penetrate the thickness direction of the lower insulating layer 52, with one end connected to the space where the electrode module 7 is located and the other end connected to the vent channel 53. When the internal pressure of the battery cell rises abnormally, gas enters the vent channel 53 from the electrode module 7 side through the vent holes 521, flows along the vent channel 53 to the rupture valve 6, and breaks through the rupture disc of the rupture valve 6 to be discharged outward.

[0093] Preferably, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the lower insulating layer 52 is an injection-molded insulating support. The side facing the electrode module 7 is a flat surface, and the side facing the lower cover plate 51 is provided with an exhaust groove. The exhaust groove of the lower insulating layer 52 and the lower cover plate 51 enclose each other to form an exhaust channel 53.

[0094] In this design, the gas generated by electrode module 7 cannot directly impact the rupture disc. Instead, it reaches the rupture disc through the exhaust port 521, exhaust channel 53, and the mounting hole of rupture valve 6. This tortuous exhaust path prevents particulate matter or electrolyte from electrode module 7 from being directly sprayed onto the rupture disc, preventing contamination or corrosion of the rupture disc and ensuring that rupture valve 6 can be reliably opened when needed.

[0095] This design, by forming an exhaust channel 53 between the lower insulation layer 52 and the lower cover plate 51, and by opening multiple exhaust holes 521 on the lower insulation layer 52, allows gas generated inside the battery cell to enter the exhaust channel 53 from multiple areas of the electrode module 7 through the exhaust holes 521, and then converge at the rupture valve 6 for discharge. Compared to a solution that only opens one exhaust hole at the corresponding position of the rupture valve 6, this solution significantly improves the gas collection efficiency and exhaust speed through multi-point collection and channel convergence, ensuring that the rupture valve 6 can quickly sense and open when the internal pressure of the battery cell is abnormal, thus improving the safety response speed.

[0096] In addition, the rupture valve 6 is located on the lower cover plate 51 of the sealing end cover 5, and the exhaust channel 53 is located between the lower insulating layer 52 and the lower cover plate 51. The gas generated by the electrode module 7 is guided to the rupture valve 6 through the exhaust channel 53. The entire exhaust path is completely isolated from the conductive structures such as the conductive post 32 and the internal connector 33 on the connecting end cover 1 side. Even if high-temperature and high-pressure gas is discharged when the rupture valve 6 is opened, it will not impact or affect the conductive structures on the connecting end cover 1 side, and the safety of thermoelectric separation is further guaranteed.

[0097] Please see Figure 4 The present invention also provides a battery cell, which includes an electrode module 7 and the aforementioned housing. The electrode module 7 is disposed within the housing. The electrode module 7 includes at least one electrode core, which is a wound electrode core or a stacked electrode core. When multiple electrode cores are provided, the multiple electrode cores may be the same or different.

[0098] When electrode module 7 includes an electrode core, for example, the electrode core is a wound electrode core. The wound electrode core is formed by winding a positive electrode sheet, a negative electrode sheet, and a separator, and its overall shape is elliptical. A positive electrode tab 91 and a negative electrode tab 92 are led out from the end of the electrode core near the connecting end cover 1. The positive electrode tab 91 and the negative electrode tab 92 are respectively connected to the third connecting portion 333 of the inner connecting member 33 of the positive end sub-module 3 and the negative end sub-module 3 of the connecting end cover 1. The wound electrode core has a high production rate and requires less equipment investment, which is beneficial for cost control. Alternatively, the electrode core can be a stacked electrode core. The stacked electrode core is formed by alternately stacking positive electrode sheets, negative electrode sheets, and a separator, and its overall shape is rectangular. The stacked electrode core has high space utilization at the rounded corners inside the cell, which is beneficial for improving the energy density of the cell.

[0099] When the electrode module 7 includes multiple electrode cores, the multiple electrode cores are stacked in the housing 4, and the multiple electrode cores may be the same or different.

[0100] For example, electrode module 7 includes multiple electrode cores stacked together, at least one of which is a wound electrode core and at least one is a stacked electrode core. The wound electrode core is located near the inner wall of the housing 4, and the stacked electrode core is located near the central area of ​​the housing 4. The wound electrode core is located near the inner wall to reduce space waste at the rounded corners, while the stacked electrode core is located inside to make full use of the rectangular space. The combination of the two can simultaneously take into account cost, production efficiency and energy density.

[0101] The positive electrode tabs 91 of each electrode core are connected by ultrasonic welding or laser welding and then connected to the third connection part 333 of the inner connector 33 of the positive terminal sub-module 3 of the connecting end cover 1; the negative electrode tabs 92 of each electrode core are connected by ultrasonic welding or laser welding and then connected to the third connection part 333 of the inner connector 33 of the negative terminal sub-module 3 of the connecting end cover 1.

[0102] With this configuration, the electrode core in electrode module 7 can be either wound or stacked, or it can be a combination of multiple cores of a single type, or a combination of wound and stacked cores. Different types of electrode cores can be flexibly selected and matched, enabling this cell structure to adapt to the differentiated needs of different application scenarios in terms of cost, production efficiency, energy density, rate performance, etc., and thus have broad market applicability.

[0103] Among them, the wound electrode core has a high production rate and low equipment investment, giving it a cost advantage. However, its space utilization at the rounded corners is low, and controlling lithium plating at the rounded corners is difficult when there are many winding layers. The stacked electrode core has a high space utilization at the rounded corners, which is beneficial for improving energy density, but its production rate is low, equipment investment is high, and cost is high. In this embodiment, the wound electrode core is placed near the inner wall of the housing 4, and the stacked electrode core is placed in the central area of ​​the housing 4. By utilizing the complementary advantages of the wound type to reduce the waste of rounded corner space near the large surface and the stacked type to make full use of the rectangular space in the center, an optimized balance between cost, production efficiency, and energy density is achieved.

[0104] Please see Figure 6 and combined Figure 2In any of the above embodiments, the electrode module 7 includes four electrode cores, namely a first winding core 711, a first stacked core 712, a second winding core 721, and a second stacked core 722. The tabs of the first winding core 711 and the first stacked core 712 are connected to form a first mixed electrode 71. The tabs of the second winding core 721 and the second stacked core 722 are connected to form a second mixed electrode 72. The positive tabs 91 of the first mixed electrode 71 and the second mixed electrode 72 are both connected to the inner connectors 33 of a set of terminal modules 3 on the connecting end cover 1. The negative tabs 92 of the first mixed electrode 71 and the second mixed electrode 72 are both connected to the inner connectors 33 of another set of terminal modules 3 on the connecting end cover 1.

[0105] In other words, such as Figure 6 As shown, the four electrode cores are arranged in sequence as follows: first wound core 711, first stacked core 712, second wound core 721, and second stacked core 722. That is, the wound cores and stacked cores are arranged alternately, and the wound cores are located near the inner wall of the housing 4.

[0106] In this process, the positive electrode tab 91 of the first wound core 711 and the positive electrode tab 91 of the first laminated core 712 are ultrasonically welded together to form the positive electrode tab 91 busbar of the first mixed electrode 71. The negative electrode tab 92 of the first wound core 711 and the negative electrode tab 92 of the first laminated core 712 are ultrasonically welded together to form the negative electrode tab 92 busbar of the first mixed electrode 71. The positive electrode tab 91 of the second wound core 721 and the positive electrode tab 91 of the second laminated core 722 are ultrasonically welded together to form the positive electrode tab 91 busbar of the second mixed electrode 72. The negative electrode tab 92 of the second wound core 721 and the negative electrode tab 92 of the second laminated core 722 are ultrasonically welded together to form the negative electrode tab 92 busbar of the second mixed electrode 72.

[0107] The positive electrode tab 91 of the first mixed electrode 71 and the positive electrode tab 91 of the second mixed electrode 72 are further connected by ultrasonic welding or laser welding, and are jointly connected to the third connection portion 333 of the inner connector 33 of the positive terminal module 3. The negative electrode tab 92 of the first mixed electrode 71 and the negative electrode tab 92 of the second mixed electrode 72 are further connected by ultrasonic welding or laser welding, and are jointly connected to the third connection portion 333 of the inner connector 33 of the negative terminal module 3.

[0108] Optionally, the first winding core 711 and the second winding core 721 have the same structure and size, and the first stacked core 712 and the second stacked core 722 have the same structure and size, so that the electrical properties of the first mixed electrode 71 and the second mixed electrode 72 are consistent, which is beneficial to the uniform distribution of current between the two mixed electrodes.

[0109] This configuration, employing a mixed group of two wound cores and two stacked cores, offers high production rates and low equipment investment for the wound cores, while maximizing space utilization and reducing internal resistance for the stacked cores. Positioning the wound cores near the inner wall of the housing 4 and the stacked cores in the central area of ​​the housing 4 optimizes the internal space allocation of the cell. Simultaneously, the reduced number of layers in both the wound and stacked cores reduces the risk of lithium plating at the rounded corners of the wound cores, while increasing the production rate by reducing the number of stacked layers in the stacked cores, thus achieving a balance between multiple optimization objectives.

[0110] In addition, the positive electrode tabs 91 of all four cores are connected to the inner connectors 33 of the positive terminal module 3, and the negative electrode tabs 92 are all connected to the inner connectors 33 of the negative terminal module 3. The conductive posts 32 of the two terminal modules 3 are all disposed in the recesses 21 of the connecting end cover 1, and the two inner connectors 33 extend along the contour of the end cover to the lower part of the outer protrusions 22 on both sides. After the electrode tabs of the four cores are led out from the corresponding positions of the electrode module 7, they are bent and welded in the space provided by the outer protrusions 22. The whole process does not occupy additional space in the length direction of the end cover. Therefore, the high-capacity design of the four cores, combined with the high space utilization of the end cover, significantly improves the energy density of the battery cells.

[0111] Please see Figure 6 In any of the above embodiments, in the first mixed electrode 71 and the second mixed electrode 72, the first stacked core 712 and the second stacked core 722 are in contact, and the first wound core 711 and the second wound core 721 are both located close to the inner wall of the housing 4.

[0112] With this configuration, the first stacked core 712 and the second stacked core 722 are in contact with each other and located in the central region of the housing 4. The cross-sectional shape of the stacked core is rectangular, which matches the central region of the rectangular cross-section of the housing 4 very well. The two stacked cores are closely arranged in the central region, which has a high space utilization rate. This fully utilizes the advantage of the high space utilization rate of the stacked core and improves the overall energy density of the cell.

[0113] In addition, the two wound cores are respectively set close to the inner wall of the housing 4. The arc-shaped gap between the rounded corner area of ​​the wound core and the inner wall of the housing 4 is restricted to the edge area of ​​the housing 4, which will not affect the space utilization of the central area of ​​the cell. Compared with the scheme of setting the wound core in the central area, this layout marginalizes the defect of low space utilization of the wound core, and significantly improves the overall space utilization of the cell.

[0114] The present invention also provides a vehicle comprising the aforementioned battery cell.

[0115] For example, the vehicle is an electric vehicle, which can be a pure electric vehicle or a hybrid electric vehicle. Specifically, the vehicle includes a vehicle body and a battery pack disposed within the vehicle body. The battery pack includes multiple battery cells, which are connected in series or parallel via busbars to form the battery pack.

[0116] In this vehicle, the battery cell can shorten its length by having a tab-accommodating space inside the connecting end cover 1 and an outwardly protruding terminal module 3 outside the connecting end cover 1, thereby increasing the volumetric energy density of the battery cell.

[0117] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A connecting end cap, characterized in that, For use in battery cells, the battery cell includes a housing with a first opening and an electrode module disposed within the housing, and the connecting end cap is disposed at the first opening; The connecting end cover includes an upper cover plate and a terminal module; The middle part of the upper cover plate is recessed towards the electrode module to form an inner recess, and both sides of the upper cover plate protrude away from the inner recess and towards the electrode module to form an outer protrusion. The electrode tabs of the electrode module correspond to the outer protrusions. The terminal module is installed in the recessed portion. The portion of the terminal module located on the side of the upper cover plate away from the electrode module is disposed in the recessed space formed by the recess of the recessed portion relative to the convex portion. The portion of the terminal module located on the side of the upper cover plate close to the electrode module extends into the convex space formed by the convex portion relative to the recessed portion, for connection with the tab.

2. The connecting end cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, The terminal module includes an external connector, a conductive post, and an internal connector, with the conductive post penetrating the recessed portion. The external connector is located on the side of the upper cover plate away from the electrode module, within the recessed space, and is connected to the conductive post. The inner connector is located on the side of the upper cover plate near the electrode module. One end of the connector is connected to the conductive post, and the other end extends into the protruding space for connection with the tab.

3. The connecting end cap according to claim 2, characterized in that, The upper cover plate also includes an inclined portion disposed between the outward protrusion and the inward concave portion; The inner connector includes a first connecting part, a second connecting part, and a third connecting part connected in sequence. The first connecting part is connected to the conductive post and extends along the concave portion. The second connecting part extends along the inclined portion. The third connecting part extends along the convex portion and is used to connect with the tab.

4. The connecting end cap according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connection end cap also includes an upper insulating layer, which is disposed on the side of the upper cover plate near the electrode module and extends along the surface of the upper cover plate. The inner connector is electrically isolated from the upper cover plate through the upper insulating layer.

5. The connecting end cap according to claim 2, characterized in that, The terminal module further includes an external insulating component disposed between the external connector and the upper cover plate; and / or, the terminal module further includes a sealing ring disposed between the contact surface of the conductive post and the recessed portion.

6. The connecting end cap according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The terminal module is provided in two sets, and the conductive posts of the two sets of terminal modules are all located in the recessed portion. The two internal connectors of the two sets of terminal modules are respectively used to connect to the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab of the electrode module.

7. A casing, characterized in that, The device includes a housing and a connecting end cap as described in any one of claims 1-6, wherein the housing is provided with a first opening and the connecting end cap is disposed over the first opening; The housing has a groove near the first opening that matches the recessed portion. When the connecting end cap is placed over the first opening, the recessed portion is placed inside the groove.

8. The outer casing according to claim 7, characterized in that, The groove depth ranges from 0.5mm to 5mm.

9. The outer casing according to claim 7, characterized in that, The housing also includes a sealing end cap, and the housing is further provided with a second opening opposite to the first opening, with the sealing end cap covering the second opening; The sealing end cap is provided with a burst valve and / or a liquid injection port.

10. The outer casing according to claim 9, characterized in that, The sealing end cap includes a lower cover plate and a lower insulating layer disposed on the side of the lower cover plate near the connecting end cap; An exhaust channel is formed between the lower insulating layer and the lower cover plate. An exhaust hole communicating with the exhaust channel is provided on the lower insulating layer. The rupture valve and / or the liquid injection port are provided on the lower cover plate.

11. A battery cell, characterized in that, It includes an electrode module and a housing as described in any one of claims 7-10, wherein the electrode module is disposed within the housing; The electrode module includes at least one electrode core, which is a wound electrode core or a stacked electrode core. When multiple electrode cores are provided, the multiple electrode cores may be the same or different.

12. The battery cell according to claim 11, characterized in that, The electrode module includes four electrode cores, namely a first wound core, a first stacked core, a second wound core, and a second stacked core. The first wound core and the first stacked core are connected by tabs to form a first mixed electrode. The second wound core and the second stacked core are connected by tabs to form a second mixed electrode. The positive tabs of the first mixed electrode and the second mixed electrode are both connected to the inner connectors of a set of terminal modules on the connecting end cover. The negative tabs of the first mixed electrode and the second mixed electrode are both connected to the inner connectors of another set of terminal modules on the connecting end cover.

13. The battery cell according to claim 12, characterized in that, In the first mixed electrode and the second mixed electrode, the first stacked core and the second stacked core are in contact, and both the first wound core and the second wound core are located close to the inner wall of the housing.

14. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the battery cell described in any one of claims 11-13.

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