Conductive structure, cover plate assembly and battery cell

Abstract

The utility model provides a conductive structure, a cover plate assembly and a battery cell, and aims to solve the technical problem of complex assembly of a top cover. The conductive structure comprises a first limiting part and a second limiting part arranged on one side of the first limiting part, and the second limiting part comprises a ring rib capable of being bent and deformed; the free end of the ring rib is locally recessed to form a first groove; in the using state, the conductive structure is configured to be arranged on the cover plate in a penetrating mode and connected with the tab, at least the free end of the annular rib is turned outwards to form a first turned edge, and the first turned edge and the first limiting part abut against the cover plate and jointly clamp the cover plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, specifically to a conductive structure, a cover plate assembly, and a battery cell. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, when assembling the battery top cover (also known as the cover assembly), the terminals are inserted through the stacked terminal blocks and cover plates. Then, the terminals are riveted along their axial direction, causing them to expand radially and be riveted together with the terminal blocks and cover plates. Afterward, the terminals and terminal blocks are welded together. This top cover assembly method uses complex riveting technology, resulting in high production costs and low production efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0003] Embodiments of this application provide a conductive structure, a cover assembly, and a battery cell, which can improve the technical problems of complex top cover assembly.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a conductive structure, including: a first limiting portion and a second limiting portion disposed on one side of the first limiting portion, the second limiting portion including a bendable and deformable ring rib; the free end of the ring rib is partially recessed to form a first groove; in use, the conductive structure is configured to pass through a cover plate and connect to an electrode tab, and at least the free end of the ring rib is turned outward to form a first flange, the first flange and the first limiting portion both abut against the cover plate and jointly clamp the cover plate.

[0005] In one embodiment, in the initial state: the wall thickness of the ring rib is 0.4 mm to 1.5 mm, and / or, the first limiting portion includes a limiting block that protrudes radially from the ring rib.

[0006] In one embodiment, the second limiting portion further includes an intermediate layer located between the first limiting portion and the ring rib, the intermediate layer being integrally formed with the ring rib and enclosing a second groove.

[0007] In one embodiment, in the initial state, a rounded corner is formed at the connection between the intermediate layer and the annular rib in the second groove, and the radius of the rounded corner is greater than or equal to 0.2 mm.

[0008] In one embodiment, a third groove is formed in the side surface of the first limiting portion opposite to the second limiting portion, and the third groove corresponds to the second groove.

[0009] In one embodiment, the first limiting part is a first metal structure, the second limiting part is a second metal structure, and the interface between the first metal structure and the second metal structure has an uneven microstructure.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first limiting part is a terminal clamping block, and the second limiting part is a pole post, wherein the terminal clamping block and the pole post are integrally disposed.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first limiting part is a current collector and the second limiting part is an electrode post, and the current collector and the electrode post are integrally disposed.

[0012] In one embodiment, the conductive structure is a pole.

[0013] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a cover plate assembly, including a cover plate and the aforementioned conductive structure. The cover plate has a mounting through hole extending through the cover plate along its thickness direction. When the conductive structure is in use, it passes through the mounting through hole. The first flange and the first limiting portion abut against the cover plate, and the cover plate is clamped between the first limiting portion and the first flange.

[0014] In one embodiment, an arcuate transition surface is formed on the cover plate, the arcuate transition surface bends and extends from one side surface of the cover plate into the mounting through hole, the first flange has an outer surface close to the cover plate, and the arcuate transition surface is adapted to the outer surface.

[0015] In one embodiment, a fourth groove is formed by a partial indentation on one side surface of the cover plate. The fourth groove surrounds the mounting through hole, and the bottom wall surface of the fourth groove is connected to the arc-shaped transition surface. The first flange is accommodated in the fourth groove.

[0016] In one embodiment, the cover plate includes a cover plate body and insulating members located on opposite sides of the cover plate body. The mounting through hole includes a first through hole formed on the cover plate body and a second through hole formed on the insulating member. The first through hole corresponds to the second through hole. At least one of the insulating members has the arc-shaped transition surface and the fourth groove formed on the side surface opposite to the cover plate body. The arc-shaped transition surface extends at least partially into the second through hole.

[0017] In one embodiment, the insulating member is further provided with a second flange that surrounds the second through hole and extends toward the cover plate body, the arcuate transition surface is located on the second flange, the second flange extends into the first through hole, and the second flange is adapted to the first through hole.

[0018] In one embodiment, the cover assembly further includes a seal that extends at least partially into the first through hole and is located between the cover body and the conductive structure, with the free end of the second flange abutting against the seal.

[0019] In one embodiment, the cover plate assembly further includes an auxiliary pressure plate located between the cover plate and the first flange. The auxiliary pressure plate has a front and a back facing opposite to each other. The front face is adapted to the outer surface, and the back face is adapted to the arcuate transition surface.

[0020] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a single battery cell, comprising:

[0021] The shell has a receiving cavity;

[0022] An electrode assembly is disposed in the receiving cavity, the electrode assembly including tabs;

[0023] The cover plate assembly is connected to the housing and closes the opening of the receiving cavity, and the conductive structure is connected to the tab.

[0024] The beneficial effects of the embodiments of this application are as follows:

[0025] In the embodiments of this application, when the conductive structure is used, pressure is applied to the ring rib to cause at least the free end of the ring rib to fold outward to form a first flange. Then, the first flange and the first limiting part are used to clamp the cover plate, thereby assembling the conductive structure and the cover plate together. This method is not only simple in process but also easy to operate. In addition, a first groove is formed on the free end of the ring rib. The first groove serves as a notch on the free end of the ring rib, forming a weak area in the strength of the ring rib. Thus, when pressure is applied to the ring rib, the first groove makes it easier for the free end of the ring rib to unfold outward, thereby guiding at least part of the ring rib to fold outward to form the first flange, reducing the difficulty of forming the first flange, further reducing the difficulty of assembling the conductive structure and the cover plate together, and improving assembly efficiency. Attached Figure Description

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

[0027] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the conductive structure provided in the embodiments of this application in its initial state;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a front view schematic diagram of the conductive structure provided in the embodiments of this application in its initial state;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the conductive structure provided in the embodiments of this application in its initial state.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the conductive structure provided in the embodiment of this application in its use state;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a top view of the conductive structure provided in the embodiment of this application in its use state;

[0032] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Sectional view along line AA in the middle;

[0033] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the cover plate assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 8 The explosion of the cover plate assembly provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0035] Figure 9 The explosion of the cover plate assembly provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 ;

[0036] Figure 10 This is a top view of the cover plate assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 BB-direction sectional view in the middle;

[0038] Figure 12 This is a top view of the insulating component in the cover plate assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 CC-direction section view;

[0040] Figure 14 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a battery cell provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0041] Figure label:

[0042] 1. Conductive structure;

[0043] 11. First limiting part; 11a. Limiting block; 111. Third groove;

[0044] 12. Second limiting part;

[0045] 121, Ring reinforcement; 121a, Free end; 121b, Fixed end; 1211, First groove;

[0046] 122, First flange; 122a, Outer surface;

[0047] 123. Intermediate layer;

[0048] 124. Second groove; 1241. Rounded corner;

[0049] 10. Cover plate assembly;

[0050] 2. Cover plate; 2a. Mounting through hole; 2b. Arc-shaped transition surface; 2c. Fourth groove;

[0051] 21. Cover plate body; 210. First through hole;

[0052] 22. Insulating component; 220. Second through hole; 221. First insulating component; 222. Second insulating component; 223. Second flange;

[0053] 3. Sealing components;

[0054] 4. Auxiliary tablet compression; 41. Front view; 42. Back view;

[0055] 100. Battery cell;

[0056] 20. Shell; 201. Receiving cavity;

[0057] 30. Electrode assembly; 301. Tab. Detailed Implementation

[0058] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0059] Furthermore, it should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative and explanatory purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. In this application, unless otherwise stated, directional terms such as "upper" and "lower" generally refer to the upper and lower positions of the device in its actual use or operation, specifically the drawing directions in the accompanying drawings; while "inner" and "outer" refer to the outline of the device.

[0060] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the stated features. In the description of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0061] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly 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, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication between two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0062] The terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0063] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the words "example" or "for example" are used to indicate exemplification, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design described as "example" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application is not to be construed as being more preferred or having more advantages than another embodiment or design. The use of the words "example" or "for example" is intended to present relative concepts in a clear manner.

[0064] To facilitate understanding of the present application, the spline curves and arrows used in the reference numerals in the accompanying drawings are explained below: spline curves without arrows indicate solid parts, that is, parts with solid structures; spline curves with arrows indicate virtual parts, that is, parts without solid structures.

[0065] To address the technical problem of complex top cover assembly in related technologies, embodiments of this application provide a conductive structure, a cover plate assembly having the conductive structure, and a battery cell having the cover plate assembly.

[0066] Firstly, please see Figure 1 This application provides a conductive structure 1 for connecting the internal circuit of a battery cell to an external circuit (hereinafter referred to as the external circuit), thereby enabling communication between the battery cell and the external circuit to supply power to the battery cell (i.e., charge the battery cell) or for the battery cell to supply power to the external circuit (i.e., discharge the battery cell). Specifically, the conductive structure 1 can be mounted on the cover plate of the battery cell.

[0067] Specifically, please see Figures 1 to 11The conductive structure 1 includes a first limiting portion 11 and a second limiting portion 12. The second limiting portion 12 is disposed on one side of the first limiting portion 11. The second limiting portion 12 includes a bendable and deformable annular rib 121. The free end 121a of the annular rib 121 is partially recessed to form a first groove 1211. In use, the conductive structure 1 is configured to pass through the cover plate 2 and connect to the electrode tab 301. At least the free end 121a of the annular rib 121 is turned outward to form a first flange 122. The first flange 122 and the first limiting portion 11 both abut against the cover plate 2 and jointly clamp the cover plate 2.

[0068] The conductive structure 1 is a conductor; optionally, it is a metallic component, meaning the material of the conductive structure 1 is metal. Metal not only has conductivity but also ductility, which facilitates the bending and deformation of the ring rib 121, reducing the manufacturing difficulty of the conductive structure 1. Here, the metal can be an elemental metal or a metal alloy. Since the conductive structure 1 includes a first limiting part 11 and a second limiting part 12, when the conductive structure 1 is a metallic component, the first limiting part 11 and the second limiting part 12 can be made of the same metal or different metals.

[0069] The ring rib 121 has two opposing ends. One end of the ring rib 121 is away from the first limiting part 11 and is formed as a free end 121a, while the other end of the ring rib 121 is connected to the first limiting part 11, which can be a direct connection or an indirect connection. The other end of the ring rib 121 connected to the first limiting part 11 is formed as a fixed end 121b.

[0070] Since the ring rib 121 can be bent and deformed, the conductive structure 1 has an initial state and a working state, and the conductive structure 1 can at least be transformed from the initial state to the working state.

[0071] Specifically, the initial state refers to the conductive structure 1 before the ring rib 121 is deformed. In the initial state, the ring rib 121 extends away from the first limiting portion 11. The sidewall of the ring rib 121 may be perpendicular to the first limiting portion 11, or it may be nearly perpendicular to the first limiting portion 11. Optionally, the angle between the sidewall of the ring rib 121 and the first limiting portion 11 is 80° to 100°. As an example, the angle between the sidewall of the ring rib 121 and the first limiting portion 11 is 80°, 82°, 84°, 85°, 86°, 87°, 88°, 89°, 90°, 91°, 92°, 93°, 94°, 95°, 97°, 99°, or 100°. As an example, in the initial state, the ring rib 121 is cylindrical, with the free end 121a extending along the axial direction of the conductive structure 1.

[0072] The "use state" refers to the conductive structure 1 after the ring rib 121 has been deformed. In the use state, at least the free end 121a of the ring rib 121 is bent and deformed to form a first flange 122. Here, "flaring outward" means that at least a portion of the ring rib 121 is offset and unfolded to the outside of the ring rib 121. As an example, in the use state, the ring rib 121 is flared, with the fixed end 121b being the smaller end and the free end 121a being the larger end, and the free end 121a extending radially along the conductive structure 1.

[0073] It is understandable that after the conductive structure 1 changes from the initial state to the use state, at least the radial dimension of the free end 121a of the ring rib 121 increases, but the axial dimension of the ring rib 121 as a whole decreases.

[0074] In the usage state, the conductive structure 1 is configured to pass through the cover plate 2. As an example, when passing the conductive structure 1 through the cover plate 2, the conductive structure 1 is first held in the initial state, and the conductive structure 1 is passed through the mounting through hole 2a on the cover plate 2, so that at least the free end 121a of the ring rib 121 is exposed outside the mounting through hole 2a. Then, pressure is applied to the ring rib 121 so that at least the free end 121a of the ring rib 121 unfolds outward and forms a first flange 122, and the conductive structure 1 is transformed into the usage state.

[0075] When the conductive structure 1 is in use, both the first flange 122 and the first limiting part 11 abut against the cover plate 2. That is, the first flange 122 abuts against the cover plate 2 and the first limiting part 11 also abuts against the cover plate 2. However, the first flange 122 and the first limiting part 11 apply force to the cover plate 2 from opposite directions so that the first flange 122 and the first limiting part 11 can jointly clamp the cover plate 2.

[0076] The cover plate 2 has two opposite surfaces along the thickness direction of the cover plate 2, namely the first surface and the second surface. For ease of subsequent description, the first surface is referred to as the surface facing the electrode assembly 30, and the second surface is the surface facing away from the electrode assembly 30.

[0077] As an example, in the usage state, the conductive structure 1 is inserted into the cover plate 2 through the mounting through hole 2a on the cover plate 2, the first limiting part 11 abuts against the first surface, and the first flange 122 abuts against the second surface.

[0078] As an example, the mounting through hole 2a on the cover plate 2 is a stepped hole connecting the first surface and the second surface. The stepped hole includes a first hole segment and a second hole segment. The first hole segment communicates with the first surface, and the second hole segment communicates with the second surface. The diameter of the first hole segment is larger than the diameter of the second hole segment, and the inner surfaces of the first hole segment and the second hole segment are connected by a first stepped surface. In use, the conductive structure 1 is inserted into the cover plate 2 through the mounting through hole 2a. The first limiting part 11 abuts against the first stepped surface, and the end face of the first limiting part 11 is flush with the first surface. The first flange 122 abuts against the second surface.

[0079] As an example, the mounting through hole 2a on the cover plate 2 is a variable-diameter hole connecting the first surface and the second surface. The variable-diameter hole includes an upper section, a middle section, and a lower section distributed sequentially. The upper section communicates with the first surface, and the lower section communicates with the second surface. The diameters of the upper and lower sections are similar but larger than the diameter of the middle section. The inner surfaces of the upper and middle sections are connected by a second stepped surface, and the inner surfaces of the middle and lower sections are connected by a third stepped surface. In use, the conductive structure 1 is inserted into the cover plate 2 through the mounting through hole 2a. The first limiting part 11 is used on the second stepped surface, and the first flange 122 is used on the third stepped surface.

[0080] Furthermore, in use, the conductive structure 1 is also configured to be connected to the tab 301. This connection can be achieved by either the first limiting portion 11 or the second limiting portion 12. As an example, the first flange 122 is connected to the tab 301.

[0081] Furthermore, in the initial state, a first groove 1211 is formed on the free end 121a of the annular rib 121. Specifically, the first groove 1211 is formed by a partial recess of the free end 121a towards the first limiting portion 11. Thus, the first groove 1211 is also located on the free end 121a, and the opening of the first groove 1211 faces away from the first limiting portion 11. The first groove 1211 connects the inner and outer sides of the annular rib 121. The number of first grooves 1211 on the free end 121a can be one or more. When there are multiple first grooves 1211, the first grooves 1211 are arranged at intervals; as an example, all the first grooves 1211 are arranged at equal intervals.

[0082] Therefore, when the conductive structure 1 provided in this application embodiment is used, pressure is applied to the ring rib 121 to cause at least the free end 121a of the ring rib 121 to be turned outward to form a first flange 122. Then, the first flange 122 and the first limiting part 11 are used to clamp the cover plate 2, thereby realizing the assembly of the conductive structure 1 and the cover plate 2. This method is not only simple in process, but also easy to operate. In addition, in the initial state, a first groove 1211 is formed on the free end 121a of the ring rib 121. The first groove 1211 serves as a notch on the free end 121a of the ring rib 121, forming a weak area of ​​the ring rib 121. In this way, when pressure is applied to the ring rib 121, the first groove 1211 can make the free end 121a of the ring rib 121 more easily unfold outward, thereby guiding the ring rib 121 to at least partially turn outward to form the first flange 122, reducing the difficulty of forming the first flange 122, and further improving the efficiency of assembling the conductive structure 1 and the cover plate 2 together.

[0083] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 4 The first limiting part 11 is a terminal clamping block, and the second limiting part 12 is an electrode post. The terminal clamping block and the electrode post are integrally formed. That is to say, the conductive structure 1 is an integrated terminal clamping block-electrode post structure. This configuration not only reduces the number of parts but also reduces the number of processing steps, thereby improving the efficiency of assembling the conductive structure 1 and the cover plate 2. As an example, when the conductive structure 1 is in use, the first limiting part 11 abuts against the second surface, the first flange 122 abuts against the first surface, the first limiting part 11 and the first flange 122 together clamp the cover plate 2, and the first flange 122 is connected to the electrode tab 301.

[0084] In some embodiments, the first limiting part 11 is a current collector, and the second limiting part 12 is a terminal post, with the current collector and terminal post being integrally formed. That is, the conductive structure 1 is an integrated current collector-terminal post structure. This configuration can reduce the number of parts and processing steps, thereby improving the efficiency of assembling the conductive structure 1 and the cover plate 2. As an example, when the conductive structure 1 is in use, the first limiting part 11 abuts against the first surface, and the first flange 122 abuts against the terminal block located on the second surface. The first limiting part 11 and the first flange 122 together clamp the terminal block and the cover plate 2, and the first limiting part 11 is directly connected to the tab 301.

[0085] In some embodiments, the conductive structure 1 is a terminal post. In one example, when the conductive structure 1 is in use, the first flange 122 abuts against the first surface and is connected to the tab 301; the first limiting portion 11 abuts against the terminal clamping block located on the second surface; the first flange 122 and the first limiting portion 11 together clamp the terminal clamping block and the cover plate 2. In another example, when the conductive structure 1 is in use, the first flange 122 abuts against the terminal clamping block located on the second surface, the first limiting portion 11 abuts against the first surface, the first flange 122 and the first limiting portion 11 together clamp the terminal clamping block and the cover plate 2; the first limiting portion 11 is connected to the tab 301.

[0086] In some embodiments, in the initial state, the first limiting part 11 includes a limiting block 11a that protrudes radially from the annular rib 121. That is, in the initial state, the radial dimension of the limiting block 11a is larger than the radial dimension of the annular rib 121. This allows the annular rib 121 to easily pass through the mounting through hole 2a on the cover plate 2, while the limiting block 11a is easily blocked by the edge of the mounting through hole 2a, thereby achieving contact with the cover plate 2. At the same time, the limiting block 11a can also close the mounting through hole 2a to a certain extent. Of course, the limiting block 11a can also improve the strength of the conductive structure 1 to a certain extent, thereby improving the reliability of the connection between the conductive structure 1 and the cover plate 2. When the conductive structure 1 is a metal part, the setting of the limiting block 11a facilitates increasing the amount of metal in the conductive structure 1, thereby improving the current carrying capacity of the conductive structure 1. As an example, in the use state, the cross-section obtained by cutting the conductive structure 1 along the axial direction presents a "π" shape.

[0087] In some embodiments, the first limiting part 11 and the second limiting part 12 are identical structures arranged back-to-back, that is, the first limiting part 11 also includes a bendable and deformable ring rib 121. For ease of distinction, the ring rib 121 included in the second limiting part 12 is referred to as the first ring rib, and the ring rib 121 included in the first limiting part 11 is referred to as the second ring rib. As an example, the conductive structure 1 is a pole post. When the conductive structure 1 is in use, the first ring rib is turned outward to form a first flange that abuts against the terminal block located on the second surface, and the second ring rib is turned outward to form a second first flange that abuts against the first surface. The first flange and the second first flange together clamp the terminal block and the cover plate 2, and the second first flange is connected to the electrode tab 301.

[0088] In some embodiments, in the initial state, the orthographic projection of the ring rib 121 along the axial direction is circular. This eliminates sharp edges on the ring rib 121, making it easier to bend and deform, and reducing the difficulty of forming the first flange 122. Of course, in other embodiments, the orthographic projection of the ring rib 121 can also be square, trapezoidal, triangular, hemispherical, or even irregular in shape.

[0089] In some embodiments, the wall thickness of the ring rib 121 is 0.4 mm to 1.5 mm in the initial state. Taking the conductive structure 1 as a metal part, in the initial state, the larger the wall thickness of the ring rib 121, the more difficult it is to bend and deform; while the smaller the wall thickness of the ring rib 121, the lower its mechanical strength. After the ring rib 121 is turned outward to form the first flange 122, the wall thickness of the first flange 122 is usually smaller than the wall thickness of the ring rib 121. This also reduces the mechanical strength of the first flange 122, making it easy to deform in use and reducing the reliability of the conductive structure 1 and the connection. By setting the wall thickness of the ring rib 121 to 0.4 mm to 1.5 mm in the initial state, within this thickness range, the ring rib 121 can be easily turned outward to form the first flange 122, and the resulting first flange 122 has better strength and is not easily deformed. As an example, the wall thickness of the ring reinforcement 121 is 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.7mm, 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1.0mm, 1.1mm, 1.2mm, 1.3mm, 1.4mm or 1.5mm.

[0090] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 The second limiting part 12 also includes an intermediate layer 123, which is located between the first limiting part 11 and the annular rib 121. The intermediate layer 123 and the annular rib 121 are integrally formed, and the intermediate layer 123 and the annular rib 121 enclose the second groove 124. That is, the fixed end 121b of the annular rib 121 is directly connected to the intermediate layer 123, and the intermediate layer 123 closes the opening on the annular rib 121 corresponding to the fixed end 121b, thereby jointly defining the second groove 124 with the annular rib 121. For the second groove 124, the annular rib 121 is formed as a sidewall, while the intermediate layer 123 is formed as a bottom wall.

[0091] By setting the intermediate layer 123, the second limiting part 12 is connected to the first limiting part 11 through the intermediate layer 123, increasing the bonding area between the second limiting part 12 and the first limiting part 11, improving the connection strength, and ensuring the structural stability of the conductive structure 1. At the same time, the intermediate layer 123 and the ring rib 121 are designed as an integral molding, which can improve the reliability of the connection between the intermediate layer 123 and the ring rib 121 and reduce the risk of the ring rib 121 cracking or falling off during the outward turning process. The formation of the second groove 124 can reduce the difficulty of forming the first flange 122.

[0092] Furthermore, when the first limiting part 11 and the second limiting part 12 are identical structures arranged back to back, the presence of the intermediate layer 123 can block the mounting through hole 2a on the cover plate 2.

[0093] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 3 In its initial state, within the second groove 124, a fillet 1241 is formed at the connection between the intermediate layer 123 and the ring rib 121, with a radius greater than or equal to 0.2 mm. The fillet 1241 enhances the connection strength between the intermediate layer 123 and the ring rib 121, thereby reducing the risk of the ring rib 121 cracking or detaching during the outward turning process. As an example, the radius of the fillet 1241 can be 0.2 mm, 0.25 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.35 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.45 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, or 1 mm.

[0094] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 6 A third groove 111 is formed recessed on the side of the first limiting part 11 opposite to the second limiting part 12, and the third groove 111 corresponds to the second groove 124. By providing the third groove 111, the weight of the conductive structure 1 can be reduced, thereby reducing the cost of the conductive structure 1. As an example, the cross-sectional shape of the conductive structure 1 obtained by axially cutting to obtain the third groove 111 can be square, trapezoidal, triangular, hemispherical, etc., and is not limited here.

[0095] In some embodiments, the first limiting part 11 is a first metal structure, and the second limiting part 12 is a second metal structure. Here, the first metal and the second metal are different metals. Therefore, the material of the first limiting part 11 in the conductive structure 1 is different from the material of the second limiting part 12, making the conductive structure 1 a composite conductive structure. This not only reduces the production cost of the conductive structure 1 but also reduces the difficulty of connecting the conductive structure 1 to the electrode 301 and the external circuit structure. For example, when the second limiting part 12 is used to weld to the electrode 301 via a connecting piece (not shown), the material of the second limiting part 12 can be set to the same material as the connecting piece, thereby reducing the difficulty of connecting the first limiting part 11 to the external circuit. The first limiting part 11 can then be designed according to the material of the external circuit structure. Here, the conductive structure 1 can be a structure for connecting to the positive electrode or a structure for connecting to the negative electrode. As an example, the first metal includes one of copper and aluminum, and the second metal includes the other of copper and aluminum.

[0096] In some embodiments, the interface between the first metal structure and the second metal structure has an uneven microstructure. This refers to the complementary interplay of the uneven surfaces of the first and second metal structures at the microscopic level. Optionally, the conductive structure 1 is a cold-forged part. As an example, the first metal is aluminum, the second metal is a copper layer, and the conductive structure 1 is formed from a copper-aluminum composite plate through cold forging. Due to the ductility of metals, during the cold forging process, under pressure, the first metal in the first metal structure and the second metal in the second metal structure deform and interpenetrate, thus forming the interface between the first and second metal structures into a microscopically uneven, wavy surface. This increases the bonding area between the first and second metal structures, improving the bonding strength. Optionally, a transition layer (not shown) is also formed between the first and second metal structures. The transition layer includes at least a compound containing both the first and second metals.

[0097] Secondly, please see Figure 7 This application embodiment also provides a cover plate assembly 10, which is used to cooperate with the housing of the battery cell to form a closed cavity for accommodating the electrode assembly of the battery cell.

[0098] Specifically, please see Figures 7 to 13 The cover plate assembly 10 includes a cover plate 2 and the aforementioned conductive structure 1. A mounting through hole 2a is provided on the cover plate 2, extending through the cover plate 2 along its thickness direction. When in use, the conductive structure 1 passes through the mounting through hole 2a. The first flange 122 and the first limiting portion 11 abut against the cover plate 2, and the cover plate 2 is clamped between the first flange 122 and the first limiting portion 11.

[0099] Specifically, along the thickness direction of cover plate 2, cover plate 2 has a first surface and a second surface that are opposite to each other. See also... Figure 14 When the cover plate assembly 10 is installed on the housing 20 of the battery cell 100, the first surface is the side surface close to the housing 20, and the first surface is used to face the electrode assembly 30 inside the housing 20; the second surface is the side surface away from the housing 20, and the second surface is used to face away from the electrode assembly 30 inside the housing 20.

[0100] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 9 and Figure 13An arc-shaped transition surface 2b is formed on the cover plate 2. The arc-shaped transition surface 2b extends from one side surface of the cover plate 2 into the mounting through hole 2a. The first flange 122 has an outer surface 122a close to the cover plate 2, and the arc-shaped transition surface 2b is adapted to the outer surface 122a of the first flange 122. By providing the arc-shaped transition surface 2b on the cover plate 2, the arc-shaped transition surface 2b can guide the ring rib 121 to turn outward to form the first flange 122, which is beneficial to the completion of the outward turning action. Moreover, the arc-shaped transition surface 2b can also reduce the risk of the first flange 122 damaging the cover plate 2 during the formation process.

[0101] In some implementations, please refer to Figures 10 to 13 A fourth groove 2c is formed on the cover plate 2, specifically a partial indentation on one side surface of the cover plate 2. The fourth groove 2c surrounds the mounting through hole 2a, and it can be understood that the fourth groove 2c communicates with the mounting through hole 2a. The arc-shaped transition surface 2b connects to the bottom wall surface of the fourth groove 2c, and the first flange 122 is received within the fourth groove 2c. Thus, when the ring rib 121 is turned outward to form the first flange 122, the arc-shaped transition surface 2b can guide the ring rib 121 to be deformed into the first flange 122 and received within the fourth groove 2c, which can reduce the height of the first flange 122 protruding from the surface of the cover plate 2, making the overall structure of the cover plate assembly 10 more compact, thereby improving the utilization rate of the internal space of the battery cell. Optionally, the free end of the first flange 122 abuts against the side wall of the fourth groove 2c.

[0102] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The cover plate 2 includes a cover plate body 21 and insulating members 22, which are located on opposite sides of the cover plate body 21. It can be understood that there are two insulating members 22, with the cover plate body 21 located between the two insulating members 22. The cover plate 2 is provided with a mounting through hole 2a, which penetrates both the cover plate body 21 and the insulating members 22. Specifically, the mounting through hole 2a includes a first through hole 210 and a second through hole 220. The first through hole 210 is formed on the cover plate body 21, and the second through hole 220 is formed on the insulating member 22, with the first through hole 210 corresponding to the second through hole 220. At least one insulating member 22 has an arc-shaped transition surface 2b and a fourth groove 2c formed on the surface opposite to the cover plate body 21, and the arc-shaped transition surface 2b at least partially extends into the second through hole 220. Since the arc-shaped transition surface 2b is connected to the bottom wall surface of the fourth groove 2c, it can be understood that the arc-shaped transition surface 2b and the fourth groove 2c are formed on the same insulating member 22.

[0103] For ease of distinction, the insulating elements 22 arranged on opposite sides of the cover plate body 21 are referred to as the first insulating element 221 and the second insulating element 222. As an example, the cover plate body 21 is a sheet of aluminum, and both the first insulating element 221 and the second insulating element 222 are plastic parts. The arc-shaped transition surface 2b and the fourth groove 2c can be formed on at least one of the first insulating element 221 and the second insulating element 222. As an example, the arc-shaped transition surface 2b and the fourth groove 2c are formed on the second insulating element 222. As an example, the arc-shaped transition surface 2b and the fourth groove 2c are formed on the first insulating element 221. As an example, both the first insulating element 221 and the second insulating element 222 have arc-shaped transition surfaces 2b and fourth grooves 2c formed on them. Specifically, the arc-shaped transition surface 2b and the fourth groove 2c can be set according to the structure of the conductive structure 1 and the mounting method of the conductive structure 1 on the cover plate 2.

[0104] In some embodiments, the fourth groove 2c can be formed by partially thinning the insulating element 22.

[0105] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 13 The fourth groove 2c is formed by the portion of the insulating member 22 surrounding the second through hole 220 and recessed to one side, specifically on the side where the cover plate body 21 is located. Compared with the method of forming the fourth groove 2c by thinning the insulating member 22, this method can ensure the overall strength of the insulating member 22 is consistent and is less likely to form weak areas of strength due to local thinning of the insulating member 22.

[0106] In some implementations, please refer to Figures 10 to 13 A second flange 223 is also formed on the insulating member 22, surrounding the second through hole 220 and extending towards the cover plate body 21. An arcuate transition surface 2b is located on the second flange 223. The second flange 223 extends into the first through hole 210 and is adapted to fit the first through hole 210. This allows the first through hole 210 to limit the second flange 223, thereby improving the reliability of the connection between the insulating member 22 and the cover plate body 21. It is understood that in this case, the first through hole 210 and the second through hole 220 at least partially overlap.

[0107] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The cover plate assembly 10 also includes a seal 3, which is disposed within the mounting through hole 2a and located between the cover plate 2 and the conductive structure 1 to seal the gap between the conductive structure 1 and the mounting through hole 2a to prevent electrolyte leakage. As an example, the seal 3 is a sealing ring made of silicone or rubber.

[0108] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 10 to 13The sealing element 3 extends at least partially into the first through hole 210, and is located between the cover plate body 21 and the conductive structure 1. The free end of the second flange 223 abuts against the sealing element 3. Typically, the sealing element 3 has a small modulus, so when the ring rib 121 is turned outward to form the first flange 122, the sealing element 3 can provide a certain buffering effect. Combined with the arc-shaped transition surface 2b on the second flange 223, the two work together to reduce the risk of stress concentration on the ring rib 121, thereby reducing the risk of the ring rib 121 breaking.

[0109] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The cover plate assembly 10 also includes an auxiliary pressure plate 4, which is located between the cover plate 2 and the first flange 122. The auxiliary pressure plate 4 has a front side 41 and a back side 42 facing away from each other. The front side 41 is adapted to the outer surface, and the back side 42 is adapted to the arc-shaped transition surface 2b. By setting the auxiliary pressure plate 4, the outward turning of the ring rib 121 can be promoted to form the first flange 122, which is beneficial to the completion of the outward turning action and reduces the risk of damaging the cover plate 2 during the formation of the first flange 122. The auxiliary pressure plate 4 can be made of metal or non-metal. Typically, the auxiliary pressure plate 4 has good toughness.

[0110] As an example, the assembly process of cover plate assembly 10 includes:

[0111] The sealing element 3 is fitted onto the conductive structure 1, and the conductive structure 1 is in the initial state;

[0112] The conductive structure 1 passes sequentially through the first insulating member 221, the cover plate body 21, and the second insulating member 222;

[0113] Pressure is applied to the conductive structure 1, causing the free end 121a of at least the ring rib 121 to be turned outward to form a first flange 122.

[0114] In some embodiments, the cover assembly 10 also includes an explosion-proof valve (not shown) disposed on the cover 2.

[0115] In some embodiments, the cover plate 10 is also provided with an injection hole (not shown) and a sealing structure (not shown) for sealing the injection hole.

[0116] Thirdly, please see Figure 14 This application also provides a battery cell 100, which is also called a battery cell. The battery cell 100 refers to the basic unit that realizes the mutual conversion of chemical energy and electrical energy.

[0117] Specifically, please see Figure 14The battery cell 100 includes a housing 20, an electrode assembly 30, and the aforementioned cover assembly 10. The housing 20 has a receiving cavity 201; the electrode assembly 30 is disposed in the receiving cavity 201, and the cover assembly 10 is connected to the housing 20 and closes the opening of the receiving cavity 201. The electrode assembly 30 includes tabs 301, and a conductive structure 1 is connected to the tabs 301.

[0118] Specifically, the electrode assembly 30 further includes electrode plates and a diaphragm. A tab 301 is connected to the electrode plates, which include a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate. The diaphragm is located between the positive and negative electrode plates. Understandably, the tab 301 also includes a positive tab and a negative tab, wherein the positive tab is connected to the positive electrode plate, and the negative tab is connected to the negative electrode plate.

[0119] In addition, the cavity 201 is also filled with electrolyte, and the electrode assembly 30 is immersed in the electrolyte.

[0120] The embodiments of this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A conductive structure, characterized in that, include: A first limiting part and a second limiting part disposed on one side of the first limiting part, the second limiting part including a bendable and deformable ring rib; The free end of the ring rib is partially recessed to form a first groove; in the use state, the conductive structure is configured to pass through the cover plate and connect with the electrode lug, and at least the free end of the ring rib is turned outward to form a first flange, the first flange and the first limiting part both abut against the cover plate and jointly clamp the cover plate.

2. The conductive structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the initial state: the wall thickness of the ring rib is 0.4mm to 1.5mm, and / or the first limiting portion includes a limiting block that protrudes radially from the ring rib.

3. The conductive structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second limiting part also includes an intermediate layer located between the first limiting part and the ring rib, the intermediate layer being integrally formed with the ring rib and enclosing a second groove.

4. The conductive structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, In the initial state, within the second groove, a rounded corner is formed at the connection between the intermediate layer and the annular rib, and the radius of the rounded corner is greater than or equal to 0.2 mm.

5. The conductive structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, A third groove is formed on the side surface of the first limiting part that is opposite to the second limiting part, and the third groove corresponds to the second groove.

6. The conductive structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The first limiting part is a first metal structure, and the second limiting part is a second metal structure; the interface between the first metal structure and the second metal structure has an uneven microstructure.

7. The conductive structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The first limiting part is a terminal block, and the second limiting part is a pole post, with the terminal block and the pole post being integrally formed; or, the first limiting part is a current collector, and the second limiting part is a pole post, with the current collector and the pole post being integrally formed; or, the conductive structure is a pole post.

8. A cover plate assembly, characterized in that, The device includes a cover plate and a conductive structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 7. The cover plate has a mounting through hole that extends through the cover plate along its thickness direction. When the conductive structure is in use, it passes through the mounting through hole. The first flange and the first limiting portion abut against the cover plate, and the cover plate is clamped between the first limiting portion and the first flange.

9. The cover plate assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, An arc-shaped transition surface is formed on the cover plate. The arc-shaped transition surface bends and extends from one side surface of the cover plate into the mounting through hole. The first flange has an outer surface close to the cover plate, and the arc-shaped transition surface is adapted to the outer surface.

10. The cover plate assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, A fourth groove is formed by a partial indentation on one side surface of the cover plate. The fourth groove surrounds the mounting through hole. The bottom wall surface of the fourth groove is connected to the arc-shaped transition surface, and the first flange is accommodated in the fourth groove.

11. The cover plate assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that, The cover plate includes a cover plate body and insulating members located on opposite sides of the cover plate body. The mounting through hole includes a first through hole formed on the cover plate body and a second through hole formed on the insulating member. The first through hole corresponds to the second through hole. At least one of the insulating members has an arc-shaped transition surface and a fourth groove formed on a side surface opposite to the cover plate body. The arc-shaped transition surface extends at least partially into the second through hole.

12. The cover plate assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, The insulating component also has a second flange formed around the second through hole and extending toward the cover plate body. The arc-shaped transition surface is located on the second flange, and the second flange extends into the first through hole. The second flange is adapted to the first through hole.

13. The cover plate assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The cover plate assembly further includes a seal, which extends at least partially into the first through hole and is located between the cover plate body and the conductive structure, with the free end of the second flange abutting against the seal.

14. The cover plate assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cover plate assembly further includes an auxiliary pressure plate located between the cover plate and the first flange. The auxiliary pressure plate has a front and a back facing opposite directions. The front face is adapted to the outer surface, and the back face is adapted to the arc-shaped transition surface.

15. A single battery cell, characterized in that, include: The shell has a receiving cavity; An electrode assembly is disposed in the receiving cavity, the electrode assembly including tabs; And the cover plate assembly as described in any one of claims 8 to 14, the cover plate assembly being connected to the housing and closing the opening of the receiving cavity, the conductive structure being connected to the tab.

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