Battery cell structure, battery pack and vehicle

Abstract

The application provides an electric cell structure, a battery pack and a vehicle. The electric cell structure comprises an electric cell body, an electric connection module and a thermal management module. The electric cell body comprises a top portion and a bottom portion which are arranged away from each other. The electric connection module is connected to the top portion of the electric cell body. The thermal management module is arranged at the bottom portion of the electric cell body. In this way, the thermal-electric separation of the electric cell structure is realized. When the electric cell is in thermal runaway, the spewing material can be discharged along the bottom portion of the electric cell body, and will not be spewed towards the vehicle cabin located at the top portion of the electric cell body, so that the safety of the vehicle cabin is improved. Moreover, the spewing material will not affect the electric connection module at the top portion of the electric cell structure, so that the electric connection module is prevented from being conducted by the spewing material to cause a larger range of short-circuit runaway risk, the safety of the electric cell structure is improved, and the safety hazard is reduced. In addition, since the thermal management module is arranged at the bottom portion of the electric cell body, an exhaust passage does not need to be reserved at the top portion of the electric cell structure, so that the electric cell structure can realize full discharge, and the energy density thereof is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of battery technology, specifically relating to a cell structure, a battery pack, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of technology and the improvement of living standards, people are placing increasingly higher demands on the performance of vehicle battery packs. Among these, the cell structure, which provides electrical energy, is a crucial component of the battery pack.

[0003] In the prior art, the top of the battery cell structure is usually equipped with a pole and an explosion-proof valve, etc. The pole and other structures are used to realize the electrical connection of the battery cell structure, and the explosion-proof valve is used to vent the gas in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell.

[0004] However, with the top explosion-proof valve facing the vehicle's cabin, it is prone to spraying high-temperature, high-pressure gases and molten metal into the cabin during thermal runaway, posing a significant safety hazard. Furthermore, the top of the battery cell structure requires a pre-installed venting channel, reducing the cell's energy density. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above problems, the present invention is proposed to provide a cell structure, battery pack and vehicle that overcomes or at least partially solves the above problems.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application is implemented as follows: In a first aspect, embodiments of this application propose a battery cell structure, which includes: a battery cell body, an electrical connection module, and a thermal management module; The battery cell body includes a top and a bottom that are disposed opposite to each other; The electrical connection module is connected to the top of the battery cell body; The thermal management module is located at the bottom of the battery cell body.

[0007] Optionally, the electrical connection module includes a terminal post connected to the top of the battery cell body, and the thermal management module includes a first explosion-proof valve connected to the bottom of the battery cell body.

[0008] Optionally, the cell structure includes a support member connected to the top of the cell body.

[0009] Optionally, the support includes expanding foam that covers the top of the battery cell body.

[0010] Secondly, embodiments of this application propose a battery pack, the battery pack including the cell structure.

[0011] Optionally, the battery pack includes a venting assembly disposed at the bottom of the cell structure, the venting assembly being configured to discharge ejections from the cell structure.

[0012] Optionally, the exhaust assembly includes a liquid cooling plate connected to the cell structure; The thermal management module includes a first explosion-proof valve, and the liquid cooling plate has an exhaust hole at a position opposite to the first explosion-proof valve.

[0013] Optionally, the exhaust assembly includes a bottom guard plate connected to the liquid cooling plate, and an exhaust channel is provided between the liquid cooling plate and the bottom guard plate, the exhaust channel communicating with the exhaust hole.

[0014] Optionally, the first explosion-proof valve is configured to discharge ejected material downwards through the vent hole into the vent passage in a first direction, the vent passage extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0015] Optionally, the exhaust assembly includes a housing, the housing having an exhaust beam and a second explosion-proof valve connected to the exhaust beam, the exhaust beam communicating with the exhaust channel, and the second explosion-proof valve being configured to discharge ejected material from the exhaust beam.

[0016] Optionally, the exhaust beam extends along a third direction, and the exhaust passage extends along a second direction, the third direction being perpendicular to the second direction.

[0017] Optionally, the exhaust beam is provided with an opening and an exhaust chamber, the opening is connected to the exhaust channel, the exhaust chamber is connected to the opening, and the ejected material is transmitted from the exhaust channel to the exhaust chamber through the opening.

[0018] Optionally, the opening is disposed between the exhaust channel and the exhaust chamber, the exhaust channel is located below the opening along the first direction, and the exhaust chamber is located above the opening along the first direction.

[0019] Optionally, the exhaust assembly includes a liquid cooling plate disposed at the bottom of the cell structure, and the exhaust beam is disposed on the side of the cell structure.

[0020] Optionally, the battery pack includes a cover plate with a gap between the cover plate and the top of the cell structure, and the cell structure includes a support member that fills the gap.

[0021] Optionally, the bottom surface of the cover plate is provided with an insulating layer.

[0022] Optionally, the battery pack includes a cover plate, the top surface of which is provided with a seat support beam, and / or, the top surface of which is provided with a reinforcing beam.

[0023] Optionally, the battery pack includes an electrical compartment, which is disposed opposite to the thermal management module of the battery cell structure.

[0024] Thirdly, embodiments of this application propose a vehicle, the vehicle including the battery pack, or the cell structure; The thermal management module of the battery cell structure is positioned away from the vehicle's cabin.

[0025] In this embodiment, the battery cell structure includes: a battery cell body, an electrical connection module, and a thermal management module. The battery cell body includes a top and a bottom that are opposite to each other. The electrical connection module is connected to the top of the battery cell body, and the thermal management module is located at the bottom of the battery cell body. By placing the electrical connection module and the thermal management module at the top and bottom of the battery cell body respectively, the top of the battery cell structure is electrically connected via the electrical connection module, while the bottom of the battery cell structure is vented and cooled via the thermal management module. This achieves thermoelectric separation of the battery cell structure. In the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell, which ejects high-temperature, high-pressure gases and molten metal, the ejected material can be discharged along the bottom of the battery cell body, rather than being ejected towards the passenger compartment located at the top of the battery cell body, thus ensuring higher safety for passengers or items inside the compartment. Furthermore, the ejected material will not affect the electrical connection module at the top of the battery cell structure, preventing the electrical connection module from being conductive by the ejected material and causing a wider short circuit and runaway risk, greatly improving the safety of the battery cell structure and reducing safety hazards. Furthermore, since the thermal management module is located at the bottom of the cell body, there is no need to reserve an exhaust channel at the top of the cell structure, which also enables the cell structure to achieve full exhaust and improve its energy density.

[0026] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is one of the schematic diagrams of the top structure of a battery pack according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a cell structure described in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 Enlarged schematic diagram of the middle section; Figure 3This is one of the schematic diagrams of the bottom structure of a battery pack according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a cell structure described in the embodiments of this application. Figure 3 Enlarged schematic diagram of the middle section; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery pack according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a battery pack described in the embodiments of this application. Figure 5 Exploded view; Figure 7 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a battery pack according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another cross-sectional structure of a battery pack according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a battery pack applied to a vehicle according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of a battery pack applied to a vehicle, as described in an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Reference numerals: 10-Cell body; 11-Top; 12-Bottom; 20-Terminal post; 21-Cell traceability code; 30-First explosion-proof valve; 40-Liquid cooling plate; 41-Exhaust port; 50-Bottom guard plate; 51-Exhaust channel; 60-Box; 61-Exhaust beam; 62-Opening; 63-Exhaust chamber; 64-Second explosion-proof valve; 70-Cover plate; 71-Seat support beam; 72-Reinforcing beam; 73-First sealing ring; 74-Second sealing ring; 75-High-voltage connection bar; 80-Electrical compartment; 90-Car cabin; Z-First direction; X-Second direction; Y-Third direction. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail. Examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0030] The terms "first" and "second" in the specification and claims of this application may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0031] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" 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 this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to 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 this invention.

[0032] 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.

[0033] Reference Figures 1 to 9 This document illustrates a schematic diagram of a battery cell structure applied to a battery pack according to an embodiment of this application. The battery cell structure may specifically include: a battery cell body 10, an electrical connection module, and a thermal management module; the battery cell body 10 includes a top 11 and a bottom 12 disposed opposite to each other; the electrical connection module is connected to the top 11 of the battery cell body 10; and the thermal management module is disposed at the bottom 12 of the battery cell body 10.

[0034] In this embodiment, the electrical connection module and thermal management module of the battery cell structure are respectively located at the top 11 and bottom 12 of the battery cell body 10, respectively. The top 11 of the battery cell structure is electrically connected via the electrical connection module, while the bottom 12 of the battery cell structure is cooled and vented via the thermal management module. This achieves thermoelectric separation of the battery cell structure. In the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell, which ejects high-temperature, high-pressure gases and molten metal, the ejected material can be discharged along the bottom 12 of the battery cell body 10, rather than towards the cabin 90 located at the top 11 of the battery cell body 10. This ensures higher safety for passengers or items within the cabin 90. Furthermore, the ejected material will not affect the electrical connection module at the top 11 of the battery cell structure, preventing the electrical connection module from being connected by the ejected material and causing a wider short circuit and runaway risk. This significantly improves the safety of the battery cell structure and reduces safety hazards. In addition, since the thermal management module is located at the bottom 12 of the cell body 10, there is no need to reserve an exhaust channel 51 at the top 11 of the cell structure, which also enables the cell structure to achieve full exhaust and improve its energy density.

[0035] Specifically, in this embodiment, the electrical connection module is used to realize the electrical connection between the cell body 10 and part of the battery pack structure, and the thermal management module is used to exhaust heat when thermal runaway occurs in the cell structure. The cell body 10 is the main structure of the cell structure and is used to provide a power source. For example, there can be multiple cell bodies, and the multiple cell bodies can be arranged in an array. The cell body 10 can be a lithium-ion cell, a polymer lithium cell, or a lithium iron phosphate cell, etc. The specific type of the cell body 10 is not limited in this embodiment.

[0036] Optionally, in this embodiment, the electrical connection module includes a terminal post 20 connected to the top 11 of the cell body 10, and the thermal management module includes a first explosion-proof valve 30 connected to the bottom 12 of the cell body 10. Thus, the terminal post 20 enables electrical connection between the cell body 10 and the battery pack structure, and the first explosion-proof valve 30 allows high-temperature, high-pressure gas and molten metal ejected during thermal runaway to open and dissipate heat.

[0037] For example, in the embodiments of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, there can be two terminals 20, symmetrically distributed in the middle area of ​​the top 11 of the cell body 10. A cell traceability code 21, such as a QR code or barcode, can be provided between the two terminals 20 to mark each cell for traceability during the production process. Figure 4 As shown, the first explosion-proof valve 30 can be located in the middle area of ​​the bottom 12 of the battery cell body 10. In addition, the first explosion-proof valve 30 can also be located in the side area of ​​the bottom 12, etc. The specific setting position of the first explosion-proof valve 30 is not limited in this embodiment.

[0038] In this embodiment, optionally, the cell structure includes a support member connected to the top 11 of the cell body 10. This support member provides stable and reliable support to the top 11 of the cell body 10, enabling it to withstand the pressure of being stepped on or objects within the vehicle cabin 90. This improves the modal strength and overall strength of the cell structure. It eliminates the need for transverse and longitudinal beams in the battery pack, reducing the weight of the battery pack, saving internal space, and increasing the overall energy storage capacity. Furthermore, the elimination of transverse and longitudinal beams saves space, allowing for a larger arrangement of the cell structure and enabling full filling of the battery energy compartment, thus increasing battery energy density. Specifically, the support member connects the cell body 10 and the top cover of the battery pack, and is located at the terminal post, forming an integrated reinforced structure between the cell structure and the battery pack, further enhancing the connection strength and structural stability. Optionally, in this embodiment, the support includes expanding foam, which covers the top 11 of the cell body 10. Specifically, in the cell structure assembly process, there is an assembly gap between the top 11 of the cell body 10 and the cover plate 70 of the battery pack. Expanding foam is filled into the assembly gap through a potting process, so that the expanding foam covers the top 11 of the cell body 10, and the expanding foam is located at the position of the electrode post. After the expanding foam cures, the structural adhesive formed by the expanding foam provides a relatively stable and reliable support for the top 11 of the cell structure. Furthermore, the expanding foam bonds the cell body 10 to the cover plate 70, so that the cell structure and the battery pack form an integrated reinforced structure with good connection strength, and the overall structure of the cell structure and the battery pack also has high modal strength.

[0039] For example, in the embodiments of this application, the material of the foam can be epoxy resin, polyurethane or silicone, etc., which can be set according to actual needs. The specific material of the foam is not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0040] In summary, the cell structure of the embodiments of this application can include at least the following advantages: In this embodiment, the battery cell structure includes: a battery cell body, an electrical connection module, and a thermal management module. The battery cell body includes a top and a bottom that are opposite to each other. The electrical connection module is connected to the top of the battery cell body, and the thermal management module is located at the bottom of the battery cell body. By placing the electrical connection module and the thermal management module at the top and bottom of the battery cell body respectively, the top of the battery cell structure is electrically connected via the electrical connection module, while the bottom of the battery cell structure is vented and cooled via the thermal management module. This achieves thermoelectric separation of the battery cell structure. In the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell, which ejects high-temperature, high-pressure gases and molten metal, the ejected material can be discharged along the bottom of the battery cell body, rather than being ejected towards the passenger compartment located at the top of the battery cell body, thus ensuring higher safety for passengers or items inside the compartment. Furthermore, the ejected material will not affect the electrical connection module at the top of the battery cell structure, preventing the electrical connection module from being conductive by the ejected material and causing a wider short circuit and runaway risk, greatly improving the safety of the battery cell structure and reducing safety hazards. Furthermore, since the thermal management module is located at the bottom of the cell body, there is no need to reserve an exhaust channel at the top of the cell structure, which also enables the cell structure to achieve full exhaust and improve its energy density.

[0041] This application also proposes a battery pack, which includes a cell structure. Through the thermoelectric separation of the cell structure, the electrical connection area and thermal runaway exhaust path of the entire battery pack are layered and isolated, thereby improving the safety performance of the battery pack.

[0042] For example, in the embodiments of this application, the battery pack may also include a high-voltage connection bar 75 for the battery cells. The high-voltage connection bar 75 is located on the top 11 of the battery cell structure and is electrically connected to the electrode plates on the top 11 of the battery cell structure, thereby realizing the electrical connection between the battery cell structure and the battery pack through the high-voltage connection bar 75.

[0043] In this embodiment of the application, the battery pack may further include a first sealing ring 73 and a second sealing ring 74. The first sealing ring 73 is located at the outer edge of the battery pack and serves as a sealing ring for the vehicle compartment 90. The cover plate 70 of the battery pack can act as the floor inside the vehicle compartment 90, and the first sealing ring 73 provides sealing protection between the battery pack and the vehicle compartment 90. The second sealing ring 74 is located at the inner edge of the cover plate 70 and serves as a sealing ring between the cover plate 70 and the edge of the housing 60, providing sealing protection for the internal battery cell structure and the high-voltage connection bar 75 of the battery cells.

[0044] Optionally, in this embodiment, the battery pack includes a venting assembly disposed at the bottom 12 of the cell structure. The venting assembly is configured to discharge ejected material from the cell structure. In this way, the high-temperature, high-pressure gas and molten metal ejected from the bottom 12 of the cell structure by the first explosion-proof valve 30 are discharged from the battery pack through the venting assembly, achieving layered isolation between the venting path and the electrical connection module at the top 11 of the cell structure. This reduces the risk of the electrical connection module being connected by ejected material, causing a wider range of short circuits and loss of control.

[0045] In this embodiment, optionally, the venting assembly includes a liquid cooling plate 40 connected to the cell structure; the thermal management module includes a first explosion-proof valve 30, and the liquid cooling plate 40 has an vent 41 at a position opposite to the first explosion-proof valve 30. This allows the high-temperature, high-pressure gas and molten metal ejected from the first explosion-proof valve 30 to pass through the liquid cooling plate 40 via the vent 41, enabling the ejected material to be vented quickly and directionally through the vent 41, preventing the disorderly spread of high-temperature flames and gas within the battery pack and impacting other cells or weak points, effectively suppressing the propagation of thermal runaway. Furthermore, the vent 41 protects the main structure and flow channels of the liquid cooling plate 40, allowing it to partially perform its cooling function even in extreme situations, preventing high-temperature ejected material from directly impacting other parts of the liquid cooling plate 40, causing deformation or damage. In this embodiment, the liquid cooling plate 40, in addition to serving as a heat dissipation component, also integrates a safety pressure relief channel function, achieving multiple functions with a single component, reducing the number of parts, simplifying the system structure, and saving space and weight.

[0046] For example, in the embodiments of this application, since there are multiple battery cell structures and multiple first explosion-proof valves 30, there can also be multiple exhaust holes 41. The multiple exhaust holes 41 correspond one-to-one with the multiple first explosion-proof valves 30, and the multiple exhaust holes 41 are arranged in an array on the liquid cooling plate 40 to improve exhaust efficiency and exhaust safety.

[0047] Optionally, in this embodiment, the exhaust assembly includes a bottom protective plate 50 connected to a liquid cooling plate 40. An exhaust channel 51 is provided between the liquid cooling plate 40 and the bottom protective plate 50, and the exhaust channel 51 communicates with an exhaust port 41. This allows the exhaust channel 51 to transmit the ejected material discharged from the first explosion-proof valve 30 through the exhaust port 41, enabling the high-temperature ejected material to quickly enter the dedicated exhaust channel 51 between the bottom protective plate 50 and the liquid cooling plate 40. This achieves rapid and directional discharge of the ejected material, preventing its disorderly spread and impact within the battery pack, and effectively suppressing thermal runaway chain reactions. Furthermore, this embodiment integrates the liquid cooling plate 40, responsible for thermal management, and the bottom protective plate 50, responsible for protection, by forming the exhaust channel 51. This integrated module results in higher overall structural strength, not only better resisting impacts and compression from the bottom 12, but also serving as a structural component to enhance the overall rigidity of the battery pack housing 60. Eliminating the need for a separately installed pressure relief plate and complex pressure relief pipe layout simplifies the internal structure of the battery pack, saves installation space, and provides space to accommodate more cell structures, which helps to improve energy density.

[0048] In this embodiment, for example, the exhaust channel 51 can be formed by both the liquid cooling plate 40 and the bottom protective plate 50. Specifically, the liquid cooling plate 40 and the bottom protective plate 50 are spaced apart, such that there is a gap between the side of the liquid cooling plate 40 near the bottom protective plate 50 and the side of the bottom protective plate 50 near the liquid cooling plate 40, thereby forming the exhaust channel 51. Alternatively, in this embodiment, a separate pipe structure can be provided between the liquid cooling plate 40 and the bottom protective plate 50 as the exhaust channel 51. The specific type of the exhaust channel 51 is not limited in this embodiment.

[0049] For example, in the embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, there can be multiple exhaust channels 51. Each exhaust channel 51 extends along the length of the battery pack, and multiple exhaust channels 51 are arranged at intervals along the width of the battery pack. For example, the number of exhaust channels 51 can be five, eight, ten, or twenty, etc., which can be set according to actual needs. In this application embodiment, the specific number and setting method of exhaust channels 51 are not limited.

[0050] In the embodiments of this application, optionally, as shown... Figure 7 and Figure 8 as well as Figure 9As shown, the arrows indicate the direction of ejection. The first explosion-proof valve 30 discharges ejection material into the exhaust channel 51 through the vent hole 41 along the first direction Z (arrow a). The exhaust channel 51 extends along the second direction X (arrow b), which is perpendicular to the first direction Z. For example, the first direction Z can be vertical, and the second direction X can be horizontal, which can be the length direction of the battery pack. The first explosion-proof valve 30 is configured to discharge ejection material into the exhaust channel 51 through the vent hole 41 downward along the first direction Z. That is, when the ejection material is initially ejected vertically at high speed and then enters the horizontally extending exhaust channel 51 through the vent hole 41, the flow cross-sectional area increases, which helps to buffer and reduce the impact pressure, and also extends the discharge path of the ejection material, prolongs the cooling time, and further improves safety. Furthermore, the change in airflow direction also consumes some energy, which helps to stabilize the flow field. In addition, the wall temperature of the exhaust channel 51 located between the liquid cooling plate 40 and the bottom protective plate 50 is usually low. The contact area between the ejected material and the side wall of the exhaust channel 51 increases due to the change in direction, which enhances the heat exchange efficiency, helps to cool the ejected material, and reduces the danger when it leaves the battery pack.

[0051] Optionally, in this embodiment, the exhaust assembly includes a housing 60, which has an exhaust beam 61 and a second explosion-proof valve 64 connected to the exhaust beam 61. The exhaust beam 61 communicates with the exhaust channel 51, and the second explosion-proof valve 64 is configured to discharge ejected material from the exhaust beam 61. This allows the ejected material to be further transported along the exhaust beam 61 of the housing 60 and ultimately discharged from the battery pack through the second explosion-proof valve 64 on the exhaust beam 61. The exhaust beam 61, acting as an integrated airflow channel with a larger volume, effectively collects ejected material from multiple exhaust channels 51 and guides it smoothly and orderly to the second explosion-proof valve 64, avoiding airflow turbulence and mutual interference within the pack, achieving efficient collection and guidance of the ejected material. Furthermore, the collected airflow ensures sufficient pressure and flow at the inlet of the second explosion-proof valve 64, facilitating reliable and rapid opening and establishing an efficient pressure relief path. In addition, the ejected material exchanges heat with its wall surface as it flows within the exhaust beam 61, helping to cool the material and reduce the risk when it leaves the battery pack.

[0052] In the embodiments of this application, optionally, as shown... Figure 7As shown, the exhaust beam 61 extends along a third direction Y, and the exhaust channel 51 extends along a second direction X. The third direction Y is perpendicular to the second direction X, where the third direction Y can be the width direction of the battery pack. This causes a significant change in airflow direction when the airflow enters the exhaust beam 61 from the exhaust channel 51, consuming more airflow energy. This helps buffer and reduce impact pressure, stabilize the flow field, and prevent high-pressure airflow from directly and at high speed impacting the second explosion-proof valve 64. Furthermore, it facilitates the design of a more optimized flow cross-section within the exhaust beam 61, preventing airflow from multiple exhaust channels 51 from interfering with or even colliding at the inlet of the exhaust beam 61. This ensures smooth airflow into the exhaust beam 61, laying the foundation for its efficient collection and rapid guidance to the second explosion-proof valve 64.

[0053] Optionally, in this embodiment, the exhaust beam 61 is provided with an opening 62 and an exhaust chamber 63. The opening 62 communicates with the exhaust channel 51, and the exhaust chamber 63 communicates with the opening 62. The ejected material is transported from the exhaust channel 51 to the exhaust chamber 63 through the opening 62. This allows the ejected material to be transported from the exhaust channel 51 to the exhaust chamber 63 along the opening 62. The opening 62 acts as a throttling and buffering mechanism for the ejected airflow, effectively consuming some of the impact kinetic energy and stabilizing the high-speed turbulent flow field. It also allows the ejected material to enter the exhaust chamber 63 more evenly through the opening 62, avoiding the generation of turbulence or dead zones in the exhaust beam 61 and ensuring smooth exhaust. Subsequently, the ejected material enters the larger cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust chamber 63, which significantly reduces pressure and flow rate, increases the contact time and area with the relatively low temperature exhaust beam 61 wall, enhances heat exchange, helps cool the high temperature ejected material, reduces the danger of its discharge, and prepares for its subsequent smooth and controllable discharge through the second explosion-proof valve 64, avoiding direct impact of high-pressure airflow on the second explosion-proof valve 64 or its sealing structure.

[0054] In the embodiments of this application, optionally, as shown... Figure 9 As shown, the opening 62 is located between the exhaust channel 51 and the exhaust chamber 63. The exhaust channel 51 is located below the opening 62 along the first direction Z, and the exhaust chamber 63 is located above the opening 62 along the first direction Z. This allows the ejected material to be transported vertically from the exhaust channel 51 through the opening 62 into the exhaust chamber 63 along the first direction Z. This ensures that the exhaust chamber 63 fully utilizes the space along the height of the exhaust beam 61 in the first direction Z, helping to achieve a larger volume of the exhaust chamber 63 within a limited layout space. This better buffers and accommodates the ejected material, optimizing the space utilization and overall structural layout within the battery pack. Furthermore, the vertical opening 62 and the chamber design increase the contact area and contact time between the high-temperature ejected material and the relatively low-temperature wall of the exhaust beam 61, enhancing heat exchange and helping to cool the high-temperature ejected material, further reducing its temperature and hazard level when it is finally discharged from the battery pack.

[0055] Optionally, in this embodiment, the exhaust assembly includes a liquid cooling plate 40, which is disposed at the bottom of the battery cell structure, and an exhaust beam 61 is disposed on the side of the battery cell structure, meaning the height of the exhaust beam 61 is greater than the height of the liquid cooling plate 40. This provides the exhaust beam 61 with sufficient height, facilitating smoother airflow and reducing turbulence or resistance that may occur due to limited space, thus ensuring smoother exhaust. Furthermore, the higher height of the exhaust beam 61 provides a larger isolation space between the liquid cooling plate 40 and the high-temperature ejected material, effectively reducing the direct thermal impact and heat radiation from high-temperature gases and flames on the surface of the liquid cooling plate 40, lowering the risk of damage or deformation due to overheating, and protecting its sealing performance. In addition, the higher exhaust beam 61 has a more robust structure, better resisting potential impacts or compression from the bottom 12 of the battery pack, providing more effective protection for the liquid cooling plate 40 below it.

[0056] For example, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 As shown, the complete exhaust path can be as follows: the ejected material from the first explosion-proof valve 30 on the cell structure enters the exhaust channel 51 between the liquid cooling plate 40 and the bottom guard plate 50 through the exhaust hole 41 on the liquid cooling plate 40 in a vertically downward direction (arrow a), then is transmitted horizontally in the exhaust channel 51 to the exhaust beam 61 of the battery pack housing 60 along the direction of arrow b, and then vertically upward from the opening 62 of the exhaust beam 61 to the exhaust chamber 63 of the exhaust beam 61, and then transmitted in the direction of arrow c within the exhaust beam 61. Finally, the ejected material is discharged horizontally from the second explosion-proof valve 64 of the exhaust beam 61 along the direction of arrow d outside the battery pack. For example, the second explosion-proof valve 64 can be located at the rear of the vehicle, so that the ejected material is discharged from the rear of the vehicle.

[0057] In this embodiment, optionally, the battery pack includes a cover plate 70, with a gap between the cover plate 70 and the top 11 of the cell structure. The cell structure includes a support member that fills the gap. This allows the top 11 of the cell body 10 to be supported by the support member, providing a more stable and reliable support to withstand the pressure from footsteps or objects within the vehicle cabin 90. This improves the modal strength and rigidity of the cell structure, eliminates the need for transverse and longitudinal beams in traditional structures to support the cell structure, reduces the weight of the battery pack, saves internal space, and increases the overall energy storage capacity. Specifically, the support member connects the cell body 10 and the top cover of the battery pack, forming an integrated reinforced structure between the cell structure and the battery pack, further enhancing the connection strength and structural stability between them.

[0058] For example, the support component can be expanding foam. In the assembly process of the cell structure, there is an assembly gap between the top 11 of the cell body 10 and the cover plate 70 of the battery pack. Expanding foam is filled into the assembly gap through a potting process, so that the expanding foam covers the top 11 of the cell body 10. After the expanding foam cures, the structural adhesive formed by the expanding foam provides a relatively stable and reliable support for the top 11 of the cell structure. Furthermore, the expanding foam bonds the cell body 10 to the cover plate 70, so that the cell structure and the battery pack form an integrated reinforced structure with good connection strength, and the overall structure of the cell structure and the battery pack also has high modal strength.

[0059] Optionally, in this embodiment, the bottom surface of the cover plate 70 is provided with an insulating layer. This insulating layer insulates the bottom of the cover plate 70 from the support member, reducing the risk of short circuits, electrochemical corrosion, and leakage accidents, further improving the electrical performance of the battery cell structure. For example, the insulating layer can be polyphenylene sulfide, FR-4 epoxy board, or rubber, etc. This embodiment does not limit the specific type of insulating layer.

[0060] In this embodiment, optionally, the battery pack includes a cover 70, the top surface of which is provided with a seat support beam 71, and / or, the top surface of the cover 70 is provided with a reinforcing beam 72. In this way, the cover 70 of the battery pack serves as the floor of the vehicle compartment 90, reducing the assembly clearance in the height direction of the vehicle, eliminating the need for a separate body floor, and achieving weight reduction for the entire vehicle, which is beneficial for product lightweighting. Furthermore, the reinforcing beam 72 enhances the structural strength of the cover 70, providing better support for the vehicle's side-impact safety.

[0061] For example, in this embodiment of the application, the cover plate 70 of the battery pack is used as the floor of the vehicle compartment 90, that is, the battery pack is directly used as part of the structure of the vehicle compartment 90, which reduces the assembly gap in the height direction of the vehicle. For example, the assembly gap can be reduced by more than 5mm, thereby improving the space utilization rate.

[0062] In this embodiment of the application, for example, the seat support beam 71 may include a front seat crossbeam and a rear seat crossbeam, which are spaced apart on the top surface of the cover plate 70. The front seat crossbeam provides an installation structure for the front seat, and the rear seat crossbeam provides an installation structure for the rear seat.

[0063] Optionally, in this embodiment, the battery pack includes an electrical compartment 80, which is disposed opposite to the thermal management module of the battery cell structure. For example, the electrical compartment 80 may be located under the rear seat. Specifically, the electrical compartment 80 is located at the top 11 of the battery cell structure, opposite to the thermal management module located at the bottom 12 of the battery cell structure. This allows for layered isolation between the electrical compartment 80 and the thermal runaway exhaust path of the battery pack, preventing ejected material from affecting the electrical compartment 80 during thermal runaway and reducing the risk of the electrical compartment 80 being connected by ejected material, leading to a wider short circuit and runaway.

[0064] In summary, the battery pack described in the embodiments of this application may include at least the following advantages: In this embodiment, the battery pack includes the cell structure, which comprises a cell body, an electrical connection module, and a thermal management module. The cell body includes a top and a bottom that are opposite to each other. The electrical connection module is connected to the top of the cell body, and the thermal management module is located at the bottom of the cell body. By placing the electrical connection module and the thermal management module at the top and bottom of the cell body respectively, the top of the cell structure is electrically connected via the electrical connection module, while the bottom of the cell structure is cooled by exhaust via the thermal management module. This achieves thermoelectric separation of the cell structure. In the event of thermal runaway of the cell, which ejects high-temperature, high-pressure gases and molten metal, the ejected material can be discharged along the bottom of the cell body instead of being ejected towards the passenger compartment located at the top of the cell body, thus ensuring higher safety for passengers and belongings inside the vehicle. Furthermore, the ejected material will not affect the electrical connection module at the top of the cell structure, avoiding the risk of a wider short circuit and loss of control caused by the ejected material, thus greatly improving the safety of the cell structure and reducing safety hazards. In addition, since the thermal management module is located at the bottom of the cell body, there is no need to reserve an exhaust channel at the top of the cell structure, which also allows the cell structure to achieve full exhaust and improve its energy density.

[0065] Reference Figures 10 to 11 This illustration shows a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present application. The vehicle includes the battery pack or the cell structure. The thermal management module of the cell structure is disposed opposite to the vehicle's cabin 90, so that the ejected material emitted when the cell structure experiences thermal runaway is ejected downwards and discharged from the rear of the vehicle through the exhaust beam 61 on the side of the battery pack housing 60, thus avoiding any impact on passengers or items inside the cabin 90 located on top of the battery pack.

[0066] For example, in the embodiments of this application, the vehicle may include pure electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, range-extended vehicles, fuel vehicles, etc. The type of vehicle may also include small cars, medium-sized cars, sedans, trucks, trailers, CDVs (Car Derived Vans), MPVs (multi-Purpose Vehicles), SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles), etc. The specific type of vehicle is not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0067] The vehicle described in this application embodiment may include at least the following advantages: In this embodiment, the vehicle includes the battery pack or the cell structure; the thermal management module of the cell structure is disposed opposite to the vehicle's cabin. The battery pack includes the cell structure, which includes: a cell body, an electrical connection module, and a thermal management module; the cell body includes a top and a bottom disposed opposite to each other; the electrical connection module is connected to the top of the cell body; and the thermal management module is disposed at the bottom of the cell body. By disposing the electrical connection module and the thermal management module at the top and bottom of the cell body respectively, the top of the cell structure is electrically connected via the electrical connection module, while the bottom of the cell structure is cooled by exhaust via the thermal management module. This achieves thermoelectric separation of the cell structure. In the event of thermal runaway of the cell, which ejects high-temperature, high-pressure gases and molten metal, the ejected material can be discharged along the bottom of the cell body instead of being ejected towards the cabin located at the top of the cell body, thus ensuring higher safety for passengers or items inside the cabin. Furthermore, the ejected material will not affect the electrical connection module at the top of the cell structure, avoiding the risk of a wider short circuit and loss of control caused by the ejected material, thus greatly improving the safety of the cell structure and reducing safety hazards. In addition, since the thermal management module is located at the bottom of the cell body, there is no need to reserve an exhaust channel at the top of the cell structure, which also allows the cell structure to achieve full exhaust and improve its energy density.

[0068] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0069] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery cell structure, characterized in that, The battery cell structure includes: a battery cell body, an electrical connection module, and a thermal management module; The battery cell body includes a top and a bottom that are disposed opposite to each other; The electrical connection module is connected to the top of the battery cell body; The thermal management module is located at the bottom of the battery cell body.

2. The cell structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrical connection module includes a terminal post connected to the top of the battery cell body, and the thermal management module includes a first explosion-proof valve connected to the bottom of the battery cell body.

3. The cell structure according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cell structure includes a support member connected to the top of the cell body.

4. The cell structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The support includes expanding foam, which covers the top of the battery cell body.

5. A battery pack, characterized in that, The battery pack includes the cell structure as described in any one of claims 1-4.

6. The battery pack according to claim 5, characterized in that, The battery pack includes a venting assembly disposed at the bottom of the cell structure and configured to discharge ejections from the cell structure.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, characterized in that, The exhaust assembly includes a liquid cooling plate, which is connected to the cell structure; The thermal management module includes a first explosion-proof valve, and the liquid cooling plate has an exhaust hole at a position opposite to the first explosion-proof valve.

8. The battery pack according to claim 7, characterized in that, The exhaust assembly includes a bottom cover plate connected to the liquid cooling plate, and an exhaust channel is provided between the liquid cooling plate and the bottom cover plate, the exhaust channel being connected to the exhaust port.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first explosion-proof valve is configured to discharge ejected material downwards through the vent hole into the vent passage in a first direction, the vent passage extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

10. The battery pack according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The exhaust assembly includes a housing, the housing having an exhaust beam and a second explosion-proof valve connected to the exhaust beam, the exhaust beam communicating with the exhaust channel, and the second explosion-proof valve being configured to discharge ejected material from the exhaust beam.

11. The battery pack according to claim 10, characterized in that, The exhaust beam extends along a third direction, and the exhaust channel extends along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the second direction.

12. The battery pack according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The exhaust beam is provided with an opening and an exhaust chamber. The opening is connected to the exhaust channel, and the exhaust chamber is connected to the opening. The ejected material is transmitted from the exhaust channel through the opening to the exhaust chamber.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, characterized in that, The opening is disposed between the exhaust channel and the exhaust chamber, the exhaust channel is located below the opening along the first direction, and the exhaust chamber is located above the opening along the first direction.

14. The battery pack according to any one of claims 10-13, characterized in that, The exhaust assembly includes a liquid cooling plate disposed at the bottom of the cell structure, and the exhaust beam is disposed on the side of the cell structure.

15. The battery pack according to any one of claims 5-14, characterized in that, The battery pack includes a cover plate with a gap between the cover plate and the top of the cell structure, and the cell structure includes a support member that fills the gap.

16. The battery pack according to claim 15, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the cover plate is provided with an insulating layer.

17. The battery pack according to any one of claims 5-16, characterized in that, The battery pack includes a cover plate, the top surface of which is provided with a seat support beam, and / or, the top surface of which is provided with a reinforcing beam.

18. The battery pack according to any one of claims 5-17, characterized in that, The battery pack includes an electrical compartment, which is disposed opposite to the thermal management module of the battery cell structure.

19. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle includes a battery pack as described in any one of claims 5-18, or a cell structure as described in any one of claims 1-4; The thermal management module of the battery cell structure is positioned away from the vehicle's cabin.

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