Battery module and energy storage device

Abstract

The application discloses a battery module and an energy storage device. The battery module comprises a battery cell module, a frame and a shell. The frame comprises a chassis and two end plates oppositely arranged on the chassis along a first direction. The shell comprises a top plate and two surrounding plates oppositely arranged along a second direction. The top plate is located at a position opposite to the chassis along a third direction. The two surrounding plates are located at two ends of the top plate opposite along the second direction and are integrally connected with the top plate. The shell and the frame are connected and jointly define a containing cavity which can be used for placing the battery cell module. Thus, the battery cell module is effectively protected from external physical impact and electromagnetic interference. The shell is further provided with a liquid cooling channel which can accommodate a cooling medium, effectively improving the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery and reducing the safety hazards caused by excessively high temperature.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of energy storage equipment technology, and in particular to a battery module and energy storage equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Existing battery modules generally employ a frame structure with an opening at one end to house the battery cells. This design achieves thermal management by directly placing cooling components between adjacent cells. After the cells and cooling components are installed, a cover plate is used to close the opening, forming a complete module structure. Multiple independent modules are then combined and assembled to form a complete battery pack system. While this technical framework ensures overall mechanical strength through its enclosed structure, it presents significant operational limitations during cell installation. The frame's wall thickness and the space occupied by the cooling components between cells create dual constraints, drastically reducing the effective space for cell arrangement. This results in low internal volume utilization within the module, becoming a key structural bottleneck restricting energy density improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The main objective of this invention is to provide a battery module and energy storage device that can ensure the structural strength of the battery module while improving the volume utilization rate of the battery module.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention proposes a battery module, comprising:

[0005] A battery cell module includes multiple battery cells, each of which is provided with a tab and a pressure relief valve;

[0006] The frame includes a base frame and two end plates arranged opposite each other along a first direction. The end plates are connected to the base frame. The direction perpendicular to the first direction is a second direction, and the direction perpendicular to both the first and second directions is a third direction.

[0007] The housing includes a top plate disposed opposite to the base frame along the third direction and two side plates disposed opposite to each other along the second direction. Each side plate is integrally connected to the top plate. The housing is connected to the frame and together defines a receiving cavity for accommodating the battery cell module.

[0008] The housing is further provided with a liquid cooling channel, which is adapted to contain a cooling medium.

[0009] In some embodiments, the cell module further includes a current guiding component electrically connected to the tab, and the battery module further includes a limiting frame, which contacts the cell on one side along the second direction and the enclosure on the other side. The limiting frame has a clearance portion, and the current guiding component is engaged with the clearance portion.

[0010] In some embodiments, the housing is further provided with an explosion-proof valve, the explosion-proof valve being configured to release airflow within the receiving cavity, the limiting bracket being provided with an airflow channel communicating with the explosion-proof valve, the airflow channel being correspondingly provided with each of the pressure relief valves, and the airflow channel being configured to guide the airflow released by the pressure relief valves to the explosion-proof valves.

[0011] In some embodiments, the explosion-proof valve is disposed on the enclosure, each of the pressure relief valves is located on the same side of the battery cell module along the second direction, and each of the pressure relief valves forms a first projection on a projection plane perpendicular to the second direction. The first projections together on the projection plane form a pressure relief area, and the explosion-proof valve forms a second projection on the projection plane. The second projection is located in the pressure relief area.

[0012] In some embodiments, the top plate includes a pad and a flow channel plate, the flow channel plate having a flow channel groove, the pad being connected to the side of the flow channel plate facing the cell and covering the flow channel groove to form the liquid cooling flow channel.

[0013] In some embodiments, the base frame includes a first frame and a second frame disposed opposite to each other along the first direction, and a third frame and a fourth frame disposed opposite to each other along the second direction. The two ends of the first frame along the second direction are respectively connected to one end of the third frame and the fourth frame along the first direction. The two ends of the second frame along the second direction are respectively connected to the other ends of the third frame and the fourth frame along the first direction. The two end plates are respectively connected to the same side of the first frame and the second frame along the third direction. The side of the third frame and the fourth frame along the third direction and facing the receiving cavity is adapted to abut against the battery cell.

[0014] In some embodiments, the third frame includes a first abutting portion extending along the third direction and a first receiving portion extending along the second direction. One end of the first abutting portion along the third direction is connected to one end of the first receiving portion away from the fourth frame. The side of the first abutting portion facing the fourth frame contacts the battery cell, and the side of the first receiving portion located in the receiving cavity contacts the battery cell.

[0015] The fourth frame includes a second abutting portion extending along the third direction and a second receiving portion extending along the second direction. One end of the second abutting portion along the third direction is connected to one end of the second receiving portion away from the third frame. The side of the second abutting portion facing the third frame contacts the battery cell, and the side of the second receiving portion located in the receiving cavity contacts the battery cell.

[0016] In some embodiments, the battery module further includes a first insulating pad and a second insulating pad, the first insulating pad being connected to the side of the first abutment facing the fourth frame, and the side of the first insulating pad away from the first abutment being adapted to contact the battery cell, the second insulating pad being connected to the side of the second abutment facing the third frame, and the side of the second insulating pad away from the second abutment being adapted to contact the battery cell.

[0017] In some embodiments, the side of the enclosure facing the first abutment is provided with a limiting structure, the limiting structure including a first portion extending along the second direction and a second portion extending along the third direction, the end of the first portion away from the enclosure being connected to the end of the second portion away from the first receiving portion, the side of the first portion facing the first receiving portion being adapted to contact the side of the first abutment away from the first receiving portion, the second portion being adapted to contact the side of the first abutment away from the enclosure, and the side of the first abutment away from the second portion at least partially contacting the enclosure.

[0018] In some embodiments, the enclosure is provided with a plurality of the limiting structures, each of the limiting structures being spaced apart along the first direction, and each of the limiting structures being integrally connected to the enclosure.

[0019] In some embodiments, along the third direction, the size of the first insulating pad is smaller than the size of the first abutment, and the sidewall of the first insulating pad away from the first receiving portion is lower than the sidewall of the first abutment away from the first receiving portion, and the side of the second portion away from the battery cell is adapted to contact the side of the first abutment facing the battery cell.

[0020] In some embodiments, the sidewall of the first insulating pad opposite to the first receiving portion is flush with the sidewall of the first abutting portion opposite to the first receiving portion, and the first insulating portion is provided with a clearance groove adapted to accommodate the first portion.

[0021] A second aspect of the present invention also provides an energy storage device, comprising:

[0022] The battery module described in any of the above embodiments; and

[0023] The outer frame has a cavity for accommodating the battery module.

[0024] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:

[0025] In the technical solution of this invention, the battery module includes a cell module, a frame, and a housing. The frame includes a base frame and two end plates disposed opposite to each other along a first direction. The housing includes a top plate and two side plates disposed opposite to each other along a second direction. The top plate is located in a third direction opposite to the base frame, and the two side plates are located at opposite ends of the top plate along the second direction and integrally connected to the top plate. The housing and the frame are connected and together define a receiving cavity, which can be used to place the cell module. This effectively protects the cell module from external physical impacts and electromagnetic interference. The housing is also provided with a liquid cooling channel, which can accommodate a cooling medium, effectively improving the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery and reducing safety hazards caused by excessive temperature. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between the energy storage device and the battery module in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the battery module structure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the battery module structure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery module cut along a second direction in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 5 In one embodiment of the present invention, the battery module is in Figure 4 Enlarged view of point A in the middle section;

[0032] Figure 6 In one embodiment of the present invention, the battery module is in Figure 4 Enlarged schematic diagram of section B in the middle;

[0033] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the shell structure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 8 In one embodiment of the present invention, the housing is in Figure 7 A magnified schematic diagram of point C in the middle section.

[0035] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0036] 10 energy storage devices;

[0037] Battery module 100;

[0038] Battery module 110; Battery cell 111; Pressure relief valve 112; Flow guiding assembly 113;

[0039] Frame size 120;

[0040] Base frame 121; First frame 1211; Second frame 1212; Third frame 1213; Fourth frame 1214; First supporting part 1215; First receiving part 1216; Second supporting part 1217; Second receiving part 1218;

[0041] End plate 122;

[0042] 130 housing; 131 top plate; 1311 pad; 1312 flow channel plate; 1313 flow channel groove; 132 enclosure plate; 1321 limiting structure; 1322 first part; 1323 second part; 133 liquid cooling flow channel; 134 explosion-proof valve;

[0043] Reception cavity 140;

[0044] Limiting bracket 150; clearance part 151; airflow channel 152;

[0045] First insulating pad 160; Second insulating pad 170; Insulating buffer 180;

[0046] First direction X; second direction Y; third direction Z.

[0047] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0049] Please see Figures 2 to 8This invention provides a battery module 100, which can be used in an energy storage device 10. Specifically, the energy storage device 10 includes multiple battery modules 100, which can be electrically connected in parallel and / or series to improve overall energy storage efficiency and extend service life. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the battery module 100 can also be used directly in an independent power supply device. The battery module 100 includes a cell module 110, a frame 120, and a housing 130. The cell module 110 consists of multiple cells 111, which can be arranged in parallel and / or series to form a stable power supply unit. Each cell 111 is provided with a tab and a pressure relief valve 112. The tab is used for electrical connection, and the pressure relief valve 112 automatically opens when the internal pressure of the cell 111 is too high to ensure safety. Specifically, when the internal pressure of the battery exceeds the safe range, the pressure relief valve 112 can automatically open to release the excessive pressure and ensure battery safety.

[0050] Please see Figure 3 The frame 120 includes a base frame 121 and two end plates 122 arranged opposite each other along a first direction X, both of which are connected to the base frame 121. For ease of understanding, the direction perpendicular to the first direction X is defined as the second direction Y, and the direction perpendicular to both the first direction X and the second direction Y is defined as the third direction Z. The design of the frame 120 provides stable support for the battery cell module 110. The two oppositely arranged end plates 122 can provide pre-tightening force to the battery cell module 110 to accommodate the cyclic expansion of the battery cell 111, ensuring that the battery cell 111 remains stable during charging and discharging. The base frame 121 can bear the weight of the battery cell 111 and also protects the battery cell 111.

[0051] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 7 The housing 130 includes a top plate 131 and two side plates 132 disposed opposite each other along a second direction Y. The top plate 131 is located opposite the base frame 121 in a third direction Z, and the two side plates 132 are located at opposite ends of the top plate 131 along the second direction Y and are integrally formed with the top plate 131. It should be noted that the integral connection between the side plates 132 and the top plate 131 can be achieved through methods including, but not limited to, welding, injection molding, and stamping, to ensure the robustness of the housing 130 structure. The housing 130 is connected to the frame 120 and together defines a receiving cavity 140, which can be used to house the battery cell module 110. This effectively protects the battery cell module 110 from external physical impacts and electromagnetic interference.

[0052] Specifically, the casing 130 is also equipped with a liquid cooling channel 133, which can accommodate the cooling medium, effectively improving the battery's heat dissipation efficiency and reducing safety hazards caused by excessive temperature. In the solution of this application, the casing 130 not only provides protection for the battery cell 111, but also achieves efficient heat dissipation through the liquid cooling channel 133, ensuring that the battery can still operate stably in high-temperature environments and extending its service life. At the same time, it effectively eliminates the need for traditional heat dissipation devices, reduces overall costs, and improves system compactness, thereby effectively improving the space utilization and capacity density of the battery module 100, further enhancing the practicality and market competitiveness of the energy storage device 10. The liquid cooling channel 133 has multiple branch channels to increase the coverage area of ​​the cooling medium and further enhance the heat dissipation effect.

[0053] It should be noted that, since the liquid cooling channel 133 is located on the housing 130, when the housing 130 is installed on the frame 120, it can directly or indirectly contact the cell module 110. Therefore, the heat generated by the cell module 110 can act on the housing 130 and be rapidly absorbed by the cooling medium through the liquid cooling channel 133 on the housing 130, achieving heat exchange. The cooling medium circulates within the channel, carrying away heat. Thus, this application can ensure cooling effect while eliminating the need for cooling components between adjacent cells 111, while simultaneously improving the space utilization of the battery module 100 and reducing the cost of the battery module 100.

[0054] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments, the battery module 110 further includes a current guiding assembly 113 and a limiting frame 150. The current guiding assembly 113 includes multiple current guiding plates, which can be made of conductive materials including but not limited to aluminum alloy, copper, etc., and can effectively guide current distribution and reduce resistance loss. The current guiding assembly 113 (i.e., the current guiding plates) is electrically connected to the tabs on the battery cell 111, thereby ensuring effective current transmission. The limiting frame 150 contacts the battery cell 111 on one side along the second direction Y and contacts the enclosure plate 132 on the other side, thereby providing additional support and fixation for the battery module 110 in the second direction Y. The design of the limiting frame 150 not only enhances the stability of the battery module 110, but also avoids internal structural displacement caused by vibration. The limiting frame 150 can be made of insulating material to improve the insulation performance between the battery module 110 and the housing 130 and reduce the risk of leakage.

[0055] To further improve the compactness of the cell module 110, in some embodiments, the limiting frame 150 is provided with a clearance portion 151. The current guiding component 113 can be disposed within the clearance portion 151 by means including but not limited to snap-fitting. This not only simplifies the assembly process but also enhances the stability of the structure. Furthermore, this design helps maintain the overall compactness of the cell module 110 and reduces the impact of vibration on battery performance. It also prevents the limiting frame 150 or the housing 130 from directly contacting the current guiding component 113, avoiding damage to the current guiding component 113 due to vibration and other factors, ensuring the stability of current transmission, reducing potential short-circuit risks, and improving system safety. In addition, the limiting frame 150 can also be equipped with shock-absorbing pads to further absorb external vibrations and protect the cell 111 from damage.

[0056] Please see Figure 3 To ensure the stability of the internal air pressure of the battery module 100, in some embodiments, the housing 130 is provided with an explosion-proof valve 134. The explosion-proof valve 134 is configured to release the airflow within the receiving cavity 140, ensuring that the internal pressure can be quickly relieved in extreme situations (such as a sudden increase in pressure due to overheating or a short circuit), preventing dangerous situations such as explosions. To further prevent the hot airflow emitted by the battery cell 111 from damaging other battery cells 111 or components inside the receiving cavity 140, in some embodiments, the limiting frame 150 is provided with an airflow channel 152 communicating with the explosion-proof valve 134. The airflow channel 152 is correspondingly arranged with each pressure relief valve 112 and can guide the airflow released by the pressure relief valve 112 to the explosion-proof valve 134. Therefore, the limiting bracket 150 not only serves to fix the battery cell module 110, but also guides the airflow released by the pressure relief valve 112 to the explosion-proof valve 134. Even if an individual battery cell 111 fails, the existence of the airflow channel 152 ensures that the heat and airflow generated by the failed battery cell 111 can be quickly dissipated, reducing the impact on other battery cells 111 or components and avoiding a chain reaction, thereby effectively improving the safety performance of the battery module 100. It should be noted that since the housing 130 is provided with a liquid cooling channel 133, the hot airflow ejected from the battery cell 111 can directly contact the enclosure 132 (housing 130) through the airflow channel 152. Thus, the hot airflow and the cooling medium can quickly exchange heat through the housing 130, enhancing the cooling effect and further reducing the risk of damage to the battery module 100 as a whole.

[0057] Please see Figure 3In some embodiments, the pressure relief valve 112 of each cell 111 faces the enclosure 132. Therefore, to further reduce the residence time of the hot airflow ejected from the cell 111 within the receiving cavity 140, thereby reducing the potential damage of the hot airflow to the cell 111 or components inside the receiving cavity 140, an explosion-proof valve 134 is located on the enclosure 132. All pressure relief valves 112 of the cells 111 are arranged on the same side to ensure convenient pressure relief while reducing the assembly complexity of the cell module 110. For ease of understanding, a plane perpendicular to the second direction Y is defined as the projection plane. Each pressure relief valve 112 forms a first projection on this projection plane, and the first projections together form a pressure relief zone. The explosion-proof valve 134 forms a second projection on this projection plane, and this second projection is located within the pressure relief zone. This ensures that the airflow released from each pressure relief valve 112 can be efficiently guided to the explosion-proof valve 134, thereby achieving rapid venting. This layout optimizes the airflow path, reduces airflow resistance, and improves the system's response speed and safety. Furthermore, sensors can be added within the airflow channel 152 to monitor changes in airflow speed and temperature in real time, providing timely warnings of potential risks. Multiple explosion-proof valves 134 are installed to enhance system safety under extreme conditions. This design not only improves the overall safety of the battery module 100 but also extends its service life.

[0058] To reduce the design and manufacturing complexity of the housing 130 while ensuring structural strength, the housing 130 can be manufactured using processes including but not limited to injection molding and stamping. The liquid cooling channel 133 can be disposed within the top plate 131 and / or the surrounding plate 132 to ensure that the cooling medium can effectively cool the battery module 110. For ease of description, an example of the liquid cooling channel 133 being disposed within the top plate 131 will be used. For details, please refer to... Figure 7 The top plate 131 includes a pad 1311 and a flow channel plate 1312. The flow channel plate 1312 has recessed flow channel grooves 1313, which constitute the basic structure of the liquid cooling flow channel 133. The pad 1311 can be installed on the side of the flow channel plate 1312 facing the battery cell 111 by means including but not limited to welding, and covers the flow channel grooves 1313, thereby forming a complete liquid cooling flow channel 133. This design allows the cooling medium to flow within the flow channel, effectively removing the heat generated by the battery cell 111 and ensuring that the temperature of the battery module 100 remains within a safe range. Because the pad 1311 is located closer to the battery cell 111, and the pad 1311 has a flatter surface than the flow channel plate 1312, its heat exchange efficiency with the battery cell 111 is higher, further improving the cooling effect.

[0059] In some embodiments, the flow channel grooves 1313 on the flow channel plate 1312 can be designed with different shapes and sizes to optimize the cooling effect. For example, using a wavy or spiral flow channel groove design 1313 can increase the contact area between the cooling medium and the flow channel plate 1312, improving heat exchange efficiency. Furthermore, in the selection of the material for the pad 1311, materials with good thermal conductivity can be selected, including but not limited to aluminum alloys, to further enhance the heat dissipation effect. The flow channel plate 1312 has an inlet end and an outlet end communicating with the flow channel grooves 1313, and the pad 1311 has an inlet port communicating with the inlet end and an outlet port communicating with the outlet end. To reduce the volume of the battery module 100, in some embodiments, the inlet port and the outlet port are both located on the same side of the frame 120. To facilitate electrical and thermal management of the battery module 100, the battery module 100 also includes a control unit, which is located on the side of the frame 120 opposite to the receiving cavity 140. Specifically, the control unit can be installed on the side of the end plate 122 away from the receiving cavity 140, so the liquid inlet and liquid outlet can also be set on the side of the end plate 122 where the control unit is installed, thereby improving the compactness of the battery module 100 and reducing its volume.

[0060] Please see Figure 3 The base frame 121 includes a first frame 1211, a second frame 1212, a third frame 1213, and a fourth frame 1214. The first frame 1211 and the second frame 1212 are arranged opposite each other along a first direction X, while the third frame 1213 and the fourth frame 1214 are arranged opposite each other along a second direction Y. The two ends of the first frame 1211 along the second direction Y are respectively connected to one end of the third frame 1213 and the fourth frame 1214 along the first direction X. Similarly, the two ends of the second frame 1212 along the second direction Y are respectively connected to the other ends of the third frame 1213 and the fourth frame 1214 along the first direction X. Two end plates 122 are respectively connected to the same side of the first frame 1211 and the second frame 1212 along the third direction Z, that is, both end plates 122 are located on the side of the first frame 1211 and the second frame 1212 facing the battery cell 111. The first frame 1211, the second frame 1212, the third frame 1213, and the fourth frame 1214 together form a stable frame structure, providing solid support for the battery cell module 110. The sides of the third frame 1213 and the fourth frame 1214 facing the receiving cavity 140 are adapted to abut against the battery cell 111, providing support and positioning for the battery cell 111. This design not only enhances the mechanical strength of the entire battery module 100 but also improves space utilization.

[0061] In some embodiments, to further improve the stability and safety of the battery module 100, elastic cushioning material, including but not limited to silicone pads, can be added to the parts of the third frame 1213 and the fourth frame 1214 that contact the battery cell 111. This can not only absorb the impact of external vibrations on the battery cell 111, but also effectively reduce pressure changes caused by the expansion of the battery cell 111. In addition, reinforcing ribs can be provided between the first frame 1211 and the second frame 1212 to increase the rigidity of the overall frame and prevent deformation during transportation or use.

[0062] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4 The third frame 1213 includes a first abutment portion 1215 extending in the third direction Z and a first receiving portion 1216 extending in the second direction Y. One end of the first abutment portion 1215 is connected to one end of the first receiving portion 1216 opposite to the fourth frame 1214, and the side facing the fourth frame 1214 contacts the battery cell 111, thereby providing support and limiting the battery cell 111 in the second direction Y to prevent the battery cell 111 from slipping or even colliding with the base frame 121. The first receiving portion 1216 is located on one side of the receiving cavity 140 and directly contacts the battery cell 111, providing support for the battery cell 111 in the third direction Z. Similarly, the fourth frame 1214 includes a second abutment portion 1217 extending in the third direction Z and a second receiving portion 1218 extending in the second direction Y. One end of the second supporting part 1217 is connected to the end of the second receiving part 1218 opposite to the third frame 1213, and the side facing the third frame 1213 can contact the battery cell 111, while the second receiving part 1218 directly contacts the battery cell 111, ensuring the stable positioning of the battery cell 111. The design of the first supporting part 1215 and the second supporting part 1217 makes the fixing of the battery cell 111 in the second direction Y more precise, while the first receiving part 1216 and the second receiving part 1218 provide strong support for the battery cell 111 in the third direction Z, effectively reducing displacement caused by vibration.

[0063] To ensure the structural strength of the base frame 121, the first frame 1211, the second frame 1212, the third frame 1213, and the fourth frame 1214 may be manufactured using high-strength materials, including but not limited to aluminum alloy and carbon fiber. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 3 and Figure 5In some embodiments, the battery module 100 further includes a first insulating pad 160 and a second insulating pad 170. The first insulating pad 160 is connected to the side of the first abutment 1215 facing the fourth frame 1214, and its side away from the first abutment 1215 is adapted to contact the battery cell 111. Similarly, the second insulating pad 170 is connected to the side of the second abutment 1217 facing the third frame 1213, and its side away from the second abutment 1217 is adapted to contact the battery cell 111. The first insulating pad 160 and the second insulating pad 170 not only provide electrical isolation to prevent short circuits between the battery cell 111 and the metal frame, but also absorb vibration to a certain extent, protecting the battery cell 111 from external impacts, significantly improving the reliability and safety of the entire battery module 100.

[0064] In some embodiments, to further improve shock resistance, a layer of cushioning foam material can be added to the surface of the first insulating pad 160 and the second insulating pad 170. This not only absorbs more vibration energy but also provides an anti-slip effect, making the battery cell 111 more securely fixed in the predetermined position. The first insulating pad 160 and the second insulating pad 170 can be connected to the first supporting part 1215 and the second supporting part 1217 by methods including but not limited to adhesive, snap-fit, or heat fusion.

[0065] It should be noted that you should refer to [link / reference]. Figure 3 An insulating buffer 180 is provided between the battery cell module 110 and the housing 130. One side of the insulating buffer 180 is attached to the side of the housing 130 facing the receiving cavity 140, and the other side can be detachably contacted with the battery cell 111, thereby providing insulation protection for the battery cell 111 and buffering and anti-collision effect, effectively improving the safety of the battery module 100.

[0066] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 A limiting structure 1321 is provided on the side of the enclosure 132 facing the first abutment portion 1215. This limiting structure 1321 includes a first portion 1322 extending along a second direction Y and a second portion 1323 extending along a third direction Z. One end of the first portion 1322 facing away from the enclosure 132 is connected to one end of the second portion 1323 facing away from the first receiving portion 1216. The side of the first portion 1322 facing the first receiving portion 1216 is adapted to contact the side of the first abutment portion 1215 facing away from the first receiving portion 1216. The second portion 1323 is adapted to contact the side of the first abutment portion 1215 facing away from the enclosure 132, and the side of the first abutment portion 1215 facing away from the second portion 1323 at least partially contacts the enclosure 132. The limiting structure 1321 provides additional support and positioning for the installation of the housing 130, improving the ease of installation of the housing 130.

[0067] Please see Figure 7 The enclosure 132 is provided with multiple limiting structures 1321, which are spaced apart along the first direction X and integrally connected to the enclosure 132. Each limiting structure 1321 includes the aforementioned first part 1322 and second part 1323, which work together to provide stable support and positioning. By providing multiple limiting structures 1321 spaced apart along the first direction X, the battery module 100 is precisely fixed within the housing 130. It should be noted that each limiting structure 1321 can be integrally manufactured with the enclosure 132 by methods including but not limited to stamping and bending processes. Specifically, stamping or bending processes can be performed at intervals on the end of the enclosure 132 away from the top plate 131 to form multiple limiting structures 1321. The design of multiple limiting structures 1321 effectively improves the connection strength between the housing 130 and the frame 120, avoids the housing 130 from warping relative to the frame 120, which would cause gaps between the two, improves the sealing performance of the assembly of the housing 130 and the frame 120, simplifies the assembly process, and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0068] Please see Figure 5 To further facilitate the positioning and installation of the housing 130, in some embodiments, along the third direction Z, the size of the first insulating pad 160 is smaller than the size of the first abutment portion 1215. This means that the first insulating pad 160 will not completely cover the first abutment portion 1215. Furthermore, the sidewall of the first insulating pad 160 facing away from the first receiving portion 1216 is lower than the sidewall of the first abutment portion 1215 facing away from the first receiving portion 1216. Therefore, during the positioning and installation of the housing 130, the side of the second portion 1323 facing away from the battery cell 111 can fully contact the sidewall of the first abutment portion 1215, improving the positioning stability of the limiting structure 1321 on the housing 130. Simultaneously, it ensures that during the installation process, the housing 130 can be precisely aligned under the guidance of the limiting structure 1321, avoiding misalignment of the housing 130 and improving overall installation efficiency and accuracy. In this way, the first insulating pad 160 can effectively prevent short circuits between the battery cell 111 and the metal frame, and also ensure the stability of the limiting structure 1321, avoiding positional displacement caused by vibration or external impact.

[0069] Similarly, the dimension of the second insulating pad 170 along the third direction Z is smaller than the dimension of the second abutment 1217 along the third direction Z, and the sidewall of the second insulating pad 170 away from the second receiving portion 1218 is lower than the sidewall of the second abutment 1217 away from the second receiving portion 1218. This design not only ensures the role of the second insulating pad 170 in protecting the cell 111 from damage, but also allows the second portion 1323 of the limiting structure 1321 to make full contact with the sidewall of the second abutment 1217, further enhancing the limiting stability of the housing 130 relative to the enclosure 132.

[0070] In other embodiments, the sidewall of the first insulating pad 160 opposite to the first receiving portion 1216 is flush with the sidewall of the first abutment portion 1215 opposite to the first receiving portion 1216, and the first insulating pad 160 is provided with a clearance groove adapted to accommodate the first portion 1322. This design not only improves the fitting accuracy between the first insulating pad 160 and the first abutment portion 1215, but also ensures that the limiting structure 1321 can be firmly fixed in the predetermined position, reducing the risk of displacement caused by vibration or other external forces. The presence of the clearance groove allows the first portion 1322 to be embedded therein, increasing the stability and reliability of the overall structure. At the same time, since the sidewall of the first insulating pad 160 is flush with the sidewall of the first abutment portion 1215, this ensures effective insulation between the cell 111 and the first abutment portion 1215, further enhancing the safety performance of the battery module 100.

[0071] Similarly, the second insulating pad 170 is also designed with a clearance groove, flush with the side wall of the second supporting portion 1217, which allows the second part 1323 to be tightly connected to the side wall of the second supporting portion 1217. The clearance groove not only improves the positioning accuracy between the second insulating pad 170 and the second supporting portion 1217, but also significantly enhances the reliability of the battery module 100 during long-term use. Since the second insulating pad 170 can effectively isolate the cell 111 from the second supporting portion 1217, it avoids potential short-circuit risks, thereby improving the safety of the battery module 100.

[0072] Please see Figure 1A second aspect of the present invention also provides an energy storage device 10, which includes a plurality of battery modules 100 as described in any of the above embodiments and an outer frame. The outer frame has a cavity for accommodating the battery modules 100, ensuring that the battery modules 100 can be arranged compactly and stably together. The outer frame may be made of high-strength materials, including but not limited to aluminum alloy and steel, to ensure sufficient strength and durability. The outer frame not only provides physical protection for the battery modules 100 but also enhances the stability and safety of the entire energy storage device 10 through its structural design. Furthermore, the outer frame may also be designed with ventilation holes and heat dissipation channels to assist the heat dissipation system of the battery modules 100 and further improve the overall heat dissipation effect.

[0073] In the energy storage device 10, multiple battery modules 100 can be flexibly arranged according to actual needs. For example, the battery modules 100 can be installed side by side in the cavity of the outer frame, or arranged in layers according to power requirements. Each battery module 100 can be electrically connected to each other through wires or busbars to form a complete energy storage system. To improve the reliability and safety of the system, isolation devices, such as insulating gaskets or fireproof partitions, can be installed between each battery module 100 to prevent current leakage or fire spread.

[0074] A monitoring panel can be installed on the outer frame to display the real-time status information of each battery module 100, such as voltage, current, and temperature, so that operators can keep track of the equipment's operating status. In addition, for ease of maintenance, the outer frame is designed with a detachable structure, allowing individual battery modules 100 to be easily removed and replaced, reducing maintenance time and costs.

[0075] In some embodiments, the energy storage device 10 can integrate a smart management system (BMS), which can monitor the operating status of each battery module 100 in real time and adjust charging and discharging strategies as needed to optimize battery performance and lifespan. Furthermore, the BMS can also interact with other energy management systems (EMS) to achieve intelligent management of the entire energy storage system, such as automatic scheduling and fault warning functions. This energy storage device 10 is applicable to scenarios including, but not limited to, electric vehicles, renewable energy power plants, and data centers.

[0076] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indications are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0077] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or," "and / or," or "and / or" throughout the text implies three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0078] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not limit the patent scope of the present invention. All equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings under the inventive concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A battery module, characterized in that, include: A battery cell module includes multiple battery cells, each of which is provided with a tab and a pressure relief valve; The frame includes a base frame and two end plates arranged opposite each other along a first direction. The end plates are connected to the base frame. The direction perpendicular to the first direction is a second direction, and the direction perpendicular to both the first and second directions is a third direction. The housing includes a top plate disposed opposite to the base frame along the third direction and two side plates disposed opposite to each other along the second direction. Each side plate is integrally connected to the top plate. The housing is connected to the frame and together defines a receiving cavity for accommodating the battery cell module. The housing is further provided with a liquid cooling channel, which is adapted to contain a cooling medium.

2. The battery module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cell module also includes a current guiding component, which is electrically connected to the tab. The battery module also includes a limiting frame, which contacts the cell on one side along the second direction and the enclosure on the other side. The limiting frame has a clearance part, and the current guiding component is engaged with the clearance part.

3. The battery module as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The housing is also provided with an explosion-proof valve, which is configured to release the airflow in the receiving cavity. The limiting bracket is provided with an airflow channel communicating with the explosion-proof valve. The airflow channel is correspondingly provided with each of the pressure relief valves, and the airflow channel is configured to guide the airflow released by the pressure relief valve to the explosion-proof valve.

4. The battery module as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The explosion-proof valve is disposed on the enclosure, and each of the pressure relief valves is located on the same side of the battery cell module along the second direction. Each of the pressure relief valves forms a first projection on a projection plane perpendicular to the second direction. The first projections together on the projection plane form a pressure relief area. The explosion-proof valve forms a second projection on the projection plane, and the second projection is located in the pressure relief area.

5. The battery module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The top plate includes a pad and a flow channel plate. The flow channel plate has a flow channel groove. The pad is connected to the side of the flow channel plate facing the battery cell and covers the flow channel groove to form the liquid cooling flow channel.

6. The battery module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The base frame includes a first frame and a second frame arranged opposite to each other along the first direction, and a third frame and a fourth frame arranged opposite to each other along the second direction. The two ends of the first frame along the second direction are respectively connected to one end of the third frame and the fourth frame along the first direction. The two ends of the second frame along the second direction are respectively connected to the other ends of the third frame and the fourth frame along the first direction. The two end plates are respectively connected to the same side of the first frame and the second frame along the third direction. The side of the third frame and the fourth frame along the third direction and facing the receiving cavity is adapted to abut against the battery cell.

7. The battery module as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The third frame includes a first abutting portion extending along the third direction and a first receiving portion extending along the second direction. One end of the first abutting portion along the third direction is connected to one end of the first receiving portion away from the fourth frame. The side of the first abutting portion facing the fourth frame contacts the battery cell, and the side of the first receiving portion located in the receiving cavity contacts the battery cell. The fourth frame includes a second abutting portion extending along the third direction and a second receiving portion extending along the second direction. One end of the second abutting portion along the third direction is connected to one end of the second receiving portion away from the third frame. The side of the second abutting portion facing the third frame contacts the battery cell, and the side of the second receiving portion located in the receiving cavity contacts the battery cell.

8. The battery module as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The battery module further includes a first insulating pad and a second insulating pad. The first insulating pad is connected to the side of the first abutment facing the fourth frame, and the side of the first insulating pad away from the first abutment is adapted to contact the battery cell. The second insulating pad is connected to the side of the second abutment facing the third frame, and the side of the second insulating pad away from the second abutment is adapted to contact the battery cell.

9. The battery module as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The enclosure panel has a limiting structure on the side facing the first abutment portion. The limiting structure includes a first portion extending along the second direction and a second portion extending along the third direction. The end of the first portion away from the enclosure panel is connected to the end of the second portion away from the first receiving portion. The side of the first portion facing the first receiving portion is adapted to contact the side of the first abutment portion away from the first receiving portion. The second portion is adapted to contact the side of the first abutment portion away from the enclosure panel. The side of the first abutment portion away from the second portion is at least partially in contact with the enclosure panel.

10. The battery module as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The enclosure is provided with a plurality of limiting structures, each of which is spaced apart along the first direction and is integrally connected to the enclosure.

11. The battery module as described in claim 9, characterized in that, Along the third direction, the size of the first insulating pad is smaller than the size of the first abutment, and the side wall of the first insulating pad away from the first receiving portion is lower than the side wall of the first abutment away from the first receiving portion. The side of the second portion away from the battery cell is adapted to contact the side of the first abutment facing the battery cell.

12. The battery module as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The side wall of the first insulating pad facing away from the first receiving part is flush with the side wall of the first abutting part facing away from the first receiving part, and the first insulating part is provided with a relief groove, which is adapted to accommodate the first part.

13. An energy storage device, characterized in that, include: The battery module according to any one of claims 1-12; as well as The outer frame has a cavity for accommodating the battery module.

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