Case member for single battery, single battery, and large-capacity battery

Abstract

The utility model belongs to the field of batteries, and particularly relates to a shell component for a single battery, the single battery and a high-capacity battery. The technical problems that an existing high-capacity battery is high in cost and large in weight are solved. The shell component is made of a plastic material; the single battery comprises the shell component, the high-capacity battery comprises a plurality of single batteries, and a concave part and a bulge are arranged in a shell component area corresponding to the electrode assembly supporting area; wherein the concave part is used for inserting a bulge on a shell component for another single battery and is fixedly connected with the bulge; and under the action of external force, channels can be formed in the bulges and the concave parts, and the channels are communicated with the inner cavity of the single battery shell component. The shell component for the single battery, which is provided by the utility model, is made of a plastic material and has the advantages of low cost and light weight. Besides, the concave parts and the bulges do not influence the size of the single batteries in the height direction, so that the connection stability in the high-capacity battery is ensured, and the overall compactness and the space utilization efficiency of the high-capacity battery are also considered.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of batteries, specifically a casing component for a single battery, a single battery, and a high-capacity battery. Background Technology

[0002] Chinese patent CN219658914U discloses a high-capacity battery, the structure of which is as follows: Figure 1 As shown, the battery includes a large-capacity battery body formed by several individual cells connected in parallel and a shared conduit located on the large-capacity battery. This shared conduit connects all the internal cavities of the individual cells, ensuring that all individual cells in the large-capacity battery are within a single system. This shared conduit enhances the uniformity of the individual cells within the large-capacity battery and improves cycle life.

[0003] The single battery in the aforementioned patent includes a housing, a sealing assembly, and a finished battery. The finished battery is installed inside the housing, and the finished battery housing has an opening. The housing has a first through hole communicating with the opening, and a pipe 01 extending along the width or length direction of the housing. The side wall of the pipe has a second through hole communicating with the first through hole. The sealing assembly is disposed on the opening, the first through hole, or the second through hole.

[0004] By setting a first through hole and a pipe with a second through hole on the outer casing of a single cell, a shared pipeline 02 can be formed through the pipe when assembling a large-capacity battery; moreover, by adding an outer casing to the finished battery, existing finished battery production lines can be used to put the finished battery into production with slight modifications.

[0005] However, this design has some drawbacks. Typically, both the finished battery casing and the outer shell are made of aluminum, which makes the overall cost of large-capacity batteries higher and their weight heavier.

[0006] From a cost perspective, aluminum is a relatively expensive metal. Furthermore, the manufacturing process for aluminum casings is complex, requiring multiple steps such as cutting, stamping, and welding, and demanding advanced equipment and techniques. These factors combined inevitably lead to a significant increase in the manufacturing cost of large-capacity batteries.

[0007] From a weight perspective, the stacking of two aluminum components significantly increases the overall weight of a large-capacity battery. This is extremely disadvantageous for the use, storage, and transportation of large-capacity batteries. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a casing component for a single battery, a single battery, and a large-capacity battery, overcoming the technical difficulties of high cost and heavy weight of existing large-capacity batteries.

[0009] The concept of this utility model is:

[0010] This utility model mainly addresses the above-mentioned technical challenges from two aspects: the structure of the individual battery cell itself and the packaging structure of the individual battery cell.

[0011] Firstly, starting from the structure of the individual battery itself, reduce the cost and weight of large-capacity batteries;

[0012] Given that plastic materials have a lower density than aluminum materials and are relatively cheaper, this invention aims to replace the finished batteries in the prior art with finished batteries using plastic casings (finished batteries can also be called single-cell batteries).

[0013] Compared to traditional aluminum casings, plastic casings are significantly lighter. Furthermore, plastic materials are less expensive, and the manufacturing process is relatively simple, requiring no complex equipment or technology. This effectively reduces manufacturing costs, increases production efficiency, and provides a cost advantage in large-scale production.

[0014] Secondly, starting from the packaging structure of individual cells, we can reduce the weight and cost of large-capacity batteries.

[0015] This invention proposes placing multiple individual battery cells with plastic casings within a single pressure-bearing casing, which can simultaneously protect multiple individual battery cells. Compared to the prior art structure where each individual battery cell is individually encased in a casing, this reduces individual packaging and protection costs, resulting in lower overall cost. Furthermore, given the same number of individual battery cells, the weight of a single pressure-bearing casing is necessarily less than the weight of multiple smaller casings; therefore, the design of the pressure-bearing casing can further reduce the weight of large-capacity batteries.

[0016] Based on the above inventive concept, the first aspect of this utility model provides a housing component for a single battery, which is characterized in that it includes a cylindrical body and a lower cover plate sealed and fixed to one of the open ends of the cylindrical body; wherein both the cylindrical body and the lower cover plate are made of plastic.

[0017] Along the height direction, from bottom to top, the inner cavity of the shell component is divided into an electrode assembly support area and an electrode assembly receiving area;

[0018] The housing component area corresponding to the electrode assembly support area is provided with a recess and a protrusion; wherein the recess is used for the protrusion on the housing component of another single cell to be inserted and fixedly connected; under the action of external force, a channel can be opened in the protrusion and the recess, which communicates with the inner cavity of the single cell housing component.

[0019] After the individual cells are connected by recesses and protrusions, this invention uses a tool to create channels in the recesses and protrusions that penetrate the inner cavity of the individual cell casing. In this way, the electrolytes of the individual cells are connected, so that the individual cells are in the same electrolyte system. The differences that may have existed can be effectively improved, ensuring the consistency of the individual cells during charging and discharging, extending the overall service life, and improving the performance of large-capacity batteries.

[0020] The casing component for the single-cell battery provided by this utility model is made of plastic, which has the advantages of lower cost and lighter weight compared to the finished batteries used in the prior art. Furthermore, by fully utilizing the electrode assembly support area within the casing, recesses and protrusions are placed in this area. These recesses and protrusions do not affect the dimensions of the single-cell battery in the height direction, ensuring both connection stability and overall compactness and space utilization efficiency within a large-capacity battery. Simultaneously, when assembling a large-capacity battery, the protrusion of one single-cell battery is inserted into the recess of another single-cell battery and fixedly connected, improving the stability between the individual single-cell batteries and making the entire large-capacity battery structure more robust and durable.

[0021] Furthermore, the recess is a blind hole opened on the first side wall of the lower cover plate; the protrusion is a connecting tube provided on the outer wall of the second side wall of the lower cover plate; the connecting tube is used to insert into the blind hole of another single battery cell and to fix it in place, and the first side wall and the second side wall are parallel to each other.

[0022] This invention employs a blind hole and connecting pipe connection, making the connection process simple and convenient. It allows for quick and accurate connection of individual battery cells, making the assembly process of the entire large-capacity battery more orderly and efficient. Once they are inserted and fixed together, a reliable connection is formed between adjacent battery cells. This ensures that the battery cells will not easily loosen or shift when subjected to vibration or impact, maintaining a stable electrical connection and structural state for a long time.

[0023] In addition, the blind holes and connectors do not affect the sealing performance of the individual battery casing.

[0024] Furthermore, the inner surface of the lower cover plate is provided with multiple protrusions arranged in an array. The top of the protrusions is used to support the electrode assembly, and the gap between the protrusions serves as an electrolyte flow channel.

[0025] The regularly arranged protrusions provide stable and evenly distributed support points for the electrode assembly, preventing deformation or damage caused by excessive localized stress. Furthermore, the gaps between the protrusions serve as electrolyte flow channels, allowing the electrolyte to be evenly distributed around the electrode assembly, ensuring full contact between all electrodes. During battery operation, if the temperature rises, the electrolyte stored in the flow channels rapidly absorbs heat through heat transfer, dispersing the absorbed heat throughout the casing and dissipating it through the casing surface. This effectively prevents battery overheating, reduces the risk of thermal runaway, precisely regulates temperature, and maintains battery performance.

[0026] Furthermore, under the action of external force, the bottom end of the blind hole and the second side wall area of ​​the lower cover plate defined by the connecting pipe can be opened to connect with the electrolyte flow channel.

[0027] Both the blind hole and the connecting pipe of this utility model are hollow structures. On the one hand, when multiple individual cells are assembled, the blind hole and the connecting pipe can be used to firmly connect adjacent individual cells, which greatly improves the stability between individual cells and makes the structure of the entire large-capacity battery more stable.

[0028] On the other hand, although the inner cavities of the blind holes and connecting pipes are normally isolated from the battery's inner cavity, under specific external forces, the bottom of the blind holes and the area on the second side wall of the lower cover plate defined by the connecting pipes can be opened smoothly. Once the sealed end is opened, the inner cavities of all blind holes and connecting pipes immediately connect with the electrolyte flow channels, and further connect with the inner cavities of all individual cells. In this way, the differences that may exist between individual cells can be effectively improved, ensuring the consistency of each individual cell during charging and discharging, extending the overall service life, and improving the performance of large-capacity batteries.

[0029] Furthermore, both the recess and the protrusion are integral with the housing component; the recess is used for the protrusion of another single cell to be inserted and fixedly connected by heat fusion.

[0030] This invention can use injection molding to integrally form the recesses and protrusions on the shell components. The processing is simple. Since the recesses and protrusions are formed at the same time as the shell components, there is no problem of dimensional deviation caused by subsequent assembly. The precision is high, which can ensure that the recesses and protrusions of each individual battery can be precisely matched, which is beneficial to the mass production and quality control of large-capacity batteries.

[0031] Furthermore, the recesses and protrusions are connected via a heat-fusion process. During this process, the plastic material melts upon heating, and upon cooling and solidification, the materials of the recesses and protrusions fuse together to form a single, integrated structure, creating a very strong bond between them. This connection method can withstand significant tensile, compressive, and shear forces, effectively preventing loosening or separation of individual battery cells during use and ensuring the structural stability of high-capacity batteries. Simultaneously, heat-fusion connections have lower precision requirements; even with slight dimensional deviations in the recesses and protrusions during production, precise connections can still be achieved, greatly improving production efficiency.

[0032] The second aspect of this utility model provides a single-cell battery, which is characterized in that it includes a housing, wherein the housing includes the aforementioned housing component for the single-cell battery and an upper cover plate sealed and fixed to the other open end of the cylinder, the upper cover plate being made of plastic.

[0033] Furthermore, the shell strength is P, P1≤P≤P2; where P1 is the strength requirement of the shell during the formation stage and the normal charging and discharging stage of the battery; and P2 is the strength requirement of the shell during the thermal runaway stage.

[0034] The aforementioned single-cell battery casing is a sealed plastic casing that serves as a cavity for the electrode components and electrolyte, providing a sealing function. Simultaneously, the strength of the sealed casing must meet the strength requirements of the formation stage and the normal charge / discharge stages of the battery. That is, the sealed casing must possess sufficient strength to ensure that it will not crack under changes in the internal environment of the battery, such as temperature and pressure, during the formation and normal charge / discharge stages. Compared to existing finished plastic-cased single-cell batteries, this single-cell battery has a lower cost, thereby reducing the overall cost of the large-capacity battery.

[0035] The third aspect of this utility model provides a high-capacity battery, which is characterized in that it includes a pressure-bearing housing and n of the above-mentioned single cells arranged in the pressure-bearing housing, where n is an integer greater than 1.

[0036] In adjacent individual cells, the protrusion of one individual cell is inserted into the recess of another individual cell and fixedly connected. The protrusion and the recess form a channel that penetrates the inner cavity of the individual cell casing.

[0037] The pressure-bearing shell has the strength required for the shell during the thermal runaway stage, and the pressure-bearing shell is equipped with a venting section.

[0038] The outer casing of this high-capacity battery is a pressure-bearing shell, whose strength must meet the requirements for shell strength during thermal runaway; that is, the pressure-bearing shell must have good strength to protect multiple individual cells simultaneously. In the extreme case of thermal runaway of a single cell and melting of the plastic shell, the pressure-bearing shell can form a robust barrier, effectively isolating high-temperature flames and harmful gases, preventing the spread of thermal runaway, and improving the safety of the high-capacity battery after thermal runaway. Compared with the prior art structure of individually encasing each individual cell, this reduces the cost of individual packaging and protection, resulting in lower overall cost. Furthermore, given the same number of individual cells and the same material and thickness of the pressure-bearing shell as the individual cell shells in the prior art, the weight of a single pressure-bearing shell will inevitably be less than the weight of multiple smaller shells. Therefore, the design of the pressure-bearing shell can further reduce the weight of the high-capacity battery.

[0039] Furthermore, in adjacent individual cells, the connector of one individual cell is inserted into the blind hole of another individual cell and thermally fused together; and the bottom end of the blind hole and the second side wall area of ​​the lower cover plate enclosed by the connector are opened, communicating with the electrolyte flow channel inside the individual cell casing.

[0040] Furthermore, the top plate of the pressure-bearing housing has clearance holes corresponding to the polarity terminals of each individual battery; the polarity terminals of each individual battery extend out of the clearance holes; the area of ​​the top plate of the pressure-bearing housing corresponding to the clearance holes is fixedly sealed to the individual battery housing.

[0041] Furthermore, the aforementioned high-capacity battery also includes a heat exchange component that exchanges heat with the polarity terminals.

[0042] During the operation of a large-capacity battery, heat can easily accumulate at the polarity terminals due to current conduction. Heat exchange components can promptly remove this heat, ensuring the polarity terminals remain within a suitable operating temperature range. This not only helps maintain the performance stability of individual cells within the large-capacity battery and reduces performance degradation caused by excessive temperature, but also further enhances the overall safety and reliability of the large-capacity battery, preventing potential malfunctions caused by localized overheating.

[0043] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0044] The single-cell battery of this utility model uses a plastic casing, which enables the large-capacity battery constructed from it to have a lower cost and lighter weight.

[0045] Meanwhile, to improve the safety performance of the large-capacity battery constructed from the aforementioned individual cells, this invention places multiple individual cells within a pressure-bearing casing. In extreme cases where a single cell experiences thermal runaway and the plastic casing melts, this pressure-bearing casing forms a robust thermal barrier, effectively isolating high-temperature flames and harmful gases, and preventing the spread of thermal runaway. Furthermore, protecting multiple individual cells with a pressure-bearing casing reduces external impacts and damage during transportation and use, extending battery life. Compared to the prior art structure where each individual cell is individually encased, this reduces individual packaging and protection costs, resulting in lower overall cost. Moreover, with the same number of individual cells, the weight of a single pressure-bearing casing is necessarily less than the weight of multiple smaller casings; therefore, the design of the pressure-bearing casing further reduces the weight of the large-capacity battery.

[0046] Meanwhile, this utility model makes full use of the electrode assembly support area inside the shell, and sets the recess and protrusion in this area. The recess and protrusion do not affect the size of the single cell in the height direction, thus taking into account the overall compactness and space utilization efficiency of the large-capacity battery.

[0047] The above analysis shows that the high-capacity battery of this invention has advantages over high-capacity batteries in the prior art, such as low cost, light weight, and compact structure. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a large-capacity battery in the background art;

[0049] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a single cell in Example 1 from a first-view perspective;

[0050] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a single cell in Example 1 from a second perspective;

[0051] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the single battery casing in Example 1;

[0052] Figure 5 This is a partial structural diagram of the single battery casing in Example 1;

[0053] Figure 6 This is a partial structural cross-sectional view of the single battery casing in Example 1;

[0054] Figure 7 This is a partial structural cross-sectional view of the single-cell battery casing in some other embodiments;

[0055] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a high-capacity battery in Example 3;

[0056] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of a medium-to-large capacity battery in Example 3;

[0057] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a partial explosion structure of a medium-to-large capacity battery in Example 3;

[0058] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of another medium-to-large capacity battery in Example 3;

[0059] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of another high-capacity battery in Example 3.

[0060] The attached figures are labeled as follows:

[0061] 01. Pipeline; 02. Shared pipeline;

[0062] 1. Top cover plate; 2. Cylinder body; 3. Bottom cover plate; 31. Blind hole; 32. Bottom of blind hole; 33. Connecting pipe; 4. Electrode assembly support area; 5. Electrode assembly receiving area; 6. Recess; 7. Protrusion; 8. First side wall; 9. Second side wall; 10. First sub-pipe section; 11. Boss; 12. Pressure-bearing shell; 13. Heat exchange component; 14. Individual cell; 15. Clearance hole; 16. Polar terminal. Detailed Implementation

[0063] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this utility model, not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0064] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Those skilled in the art can make similar extensions without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0065] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "top," "bottom," "upper," or "lower," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0066] Example 1

[0067] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of the structure of a single battery cell 14 in this embodiment. The single battery cell 14 includes a housing, an electrode assembly located within the housing cavity, and an electrolyte. Figure 4 As can be seen, the shell is formed by an upper cover plate 1 and shell components; the shell components include a cylinder 2 and a lower cover plate 3 that is sealed and fixed to the open end of the cylinder 2.

[0068] To reduce costs and battery weight, this embodiment uses a plastic casing. The lower cover plate 3 and the cylinder 2 can be molded in one piece using injection molding, eliminating the need for separate processing and assembly. This significantly reduces production steps and shortens the production cycle. Furthermore, the injection-molded integral part ensures uniform material distribution and tight bonding, resulting in a stronger connection between the battery lower cover plate 3 and the cylinder 2, and higher overall structural strength. Additionally, reinforcing ribs can be integrally molded on the cylinder 2, effectively increasing its resistance to bending, compression, and torsion.

[0069] In this embodiment, the upper cover plate 1 and the cylinder 2 can be connected by a heat-sealing method. Heat-sealing ensures a continuous, uniform, and tight connection between the upper cover plate 1 and the cylinder 2, resulting in extremely high stability. External water, dust, and other impurities cannot enter the battery, providing excellent protection for the electrode components and ensuring the battery's performance and lifespan. Furthermore, the heat-sealing process is simple, and the parameters are easy to control.

[0070] It should be noted that the plastic material selected in this utility model should have the following properties:

[0071] First, it must have sufficient strength to ensure the stability of the battery structure;

[0072] Second, it has chemical corrosion resistance and can resist the corrosion of electrolytes;

[0073] Third, it has barrier properties, which can effectively prevent the electrolyte, gas and other substances inside the battery from leaking out, and at the same time prevent external impurities such as moisture and oxygen from entering the battery.

[0074] Fourth, it possesses excellent thermal stability. Batteries generate heat during charging and discharging, especially at high rates. This plastic material needs to maintain stable performance within a certain temperature range and will not soften, deform, or decompose due to high temperatures.

[0075] The plastic material used can be the same material used in existing plastic-cased single-cell batteries 14, or the plastic material disclosed in Chinese patents CN106543551A and CN106977894A.

[0076] For ease of description, in this embodiment, the width direction of the single battery cell 14 is defined as the x-direction, the length direction as the y-direction, and the height direction as the z-direction.

[0077] In this embodiment, along the z-direction from bottom to top, the inner cavity of the housing is divided into an electrode assembly support area 4 and an electrode assembly receiving area 5.

[0078] Combination Figure 5 and Figure 6 As can be seen, in this embodiment, the electrode assembly support area 4 is mainly located on the lower cover plate 3; the electrode assembly receiving area 5 is located above the electrode assembly support area 4.

[0079] In some other embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, the electrode assembly support area 4 can be enclosed by the lower cover plate 3 and a portion of the cylinder 2 connected thereto; the electrode assembly receiving area 5 is located above the electrode assembly support area 4.

[0080] This invention provides a recess 6 and a protrusion 7 on the housing component area corresponding to the electrode assembly support area 4; wherein the recess 6 is used for another single battery 14 to be inserted into the protrusion 7 on the housing component and fixedly connected. Under the action of external force, a channel can be opened in the protrusion 7 and the recess 6, and the channel communicates with the inner cavity of the housing component of the single battery 14.

[0081] The recessed portion 6 and the protrusion 7 of this utility model are interlocked to connect multiple individual battery cells 14. This also improves the stability of the individual battery cells 14 within the large-capacity battery, making the structure of the entire large-capacity battery more compact and stable, effectively resisting interference under various working conditions, and ensuring the continuous, efficient and safe operation of the large-capacity battery.

[0082] In this embodiment, both the recess 6 and the protrusion 7 are disposed on the housing corresponding to the electrode assembly support area 4, so that the recess 6 and the protrusion 7 do not generate additional dimensional increments in the height direction of the individual battery cell 14. For large-capacity batteries, especially in applications with stringent space requirements, this connection structure that does not increase the height dimension is particularly important. It allows a large-capacity battery to accommodate more individual batteries 14 in a limited space, or, while meeting the same battery capacity requirements, makes the overall large-capacity battery more compact and lightweight, facilitating device portability, installation, and layout optimization.

[0083] Since the shell in this embodiment is made of plastic, the shell component with the recess 6 and protrusion 7 can be integrally molded using injection molding (the shell component here consists of the lower cover plate 3 and the cylinder 2). During injection molding, the dimensions of the mold cavity can be precisely controlled, ensuring high dimensional accuracy of the recess 6 and protrusion 7 during molding, guaranteeing precise fit with other individual battery cells 14. Furthermore, because it is integrally molded, there is no problem of accumulated dimensional deviations due to the assembly process, ensuring the stability and consistency of the connection between the individual battery cells 14. This is beneficial for improving the overall performance and quality stability of the large-capacity battery, reducing problems such as poor connection and abnormal battery operation caused by dimensional mismatch. Simultaneously, in adjacent individual battery cells 14, after the protrusion 7 of one individual battery cell 14 is inserted into the recess 6 of another individual battery cell 14, the two can be fixedly connected by heat fusion. After the plastic is melted and cooled, it solidifies, fusing the two together to form a stable connection structure capable of withstanding significant mechanical stress. For example, when a large-capacity battery is subjected to external forces such as vibration, impact, or compression, it effectively prevents the connections between individual cells from loosening or detaching, ensuring the structural integrity and electrical connection stability of the large-capacity battery under complex operating conditions. This, in turn, improves the safety and reliability of the large-capacity battery and extends its service life. Furthermore, the hot-melt connection method has lower precision requirements; even with a certain degree of dimensional deviation, a good connection can be achieved through hot melting, reducing the cost of precision control during the production process.

[0084] from Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be seen from the image, in this embodiment, the recess 6 and the protrusion 7 are respectively provided on the first sidewall 8 and the second sidewall 9, which are parallel to each other on the housing. In addition, two recesses 6 may be provided on the first sidewall 8, and two protrusions 7 may be provided on the second sidewall 9.

[0085] In some other embodiments, a recess 6 and a protrusion 7 may be provided on the first sidewall 8, and a corresponding protrusion 7 and a recess 6 may be provided on the second sidewall 9.

[0086] In this embodiment, when assembling a large-capacity battery, the operator can easily distinguish the correspondence between the recesses 6 and the protrusions 7, and can quickly and accurately connect the individual battery cells 14. However, if there are both recesses 6 and protrusions 7 on the same side wall, the operator needs to be more careful in distinguishing which recess 6 corresponds to which protrusion 7 during assembly. If the operator is not careful, a mismatch may occur, resulting in reduced assembly efficiency.

[0087] It should be noted that:

[0088] 1. The first sidewall 8 mentioned above is composed of the first sidewall of the cylinder 2 and the first sidewall of the lower cover plate 3; the second sidewall 9 mentioned above is composed of the second sidewall of the cylinder 2 and the second sidewall of the lower cover plate 3.

[0089] 2. The first sidewall 8 and the second sidewall 9 described above are parallel to each other and can both be parallel to the xz plane. When parallel to the xz plane, both the protrusion 7 and the recess 6 extend along the y direction. Alternatively, the first sidewall 8 and the second sidewall 9 described above can both be parallel to the yz plane. When parallel to the yz plane, both the protrusion 7 and the recess 6 extend along the x direction.

[0090] The following example mainly uses the first sidewall 8 and the second sidewall 9 as examples of parallelism between the yz plane.

[0091] from Figure 6 As can be seen from the image, the recess 6 in this embodiment is a blind hole 31 formed on the first side wall of the lower cover plate 3, that is, the opening end of the blind hole 31 is located on the first side wall of the lower cover plate 3, and the bottom end 32 of the blind hole is located within the electrode assembly support area 4. The protrusion 7 is a connecting tube 33 provided on the outer wall of the second side wall of the lower cover plate 3; the connecting tube 33 is used to insert into the blind hole 31 of another single cell 14 and fix it in place.

[0092] In some other embodiments, the recess 6 may also employ... Figure 7 The structure shown, namely the recess 6, can be a first sub-tube segment 10 disposed on the first side wall of the cylinder 2; the first sub-tube segment 10 extends along the x-direction, one end of the first sub-tube segment 10 is closed, and the other end is open; the closed end is located in the electrode assembly support area 4, and the open end penetrates through the first side wall 8 and is located on the first side wall 8. The protrusion 7 is a connecting pipe 33 disposed on the outer wall of the second side wall of the cylinder 2; the connecting pipe 33 is used to insert into the blind hole 31 of another single cell 14 and fix it in place.

[0093] In some other embodiments, the protrusion 7 can also be a solid column, which has higher strength and can withstand greater tensile and compressive forces. However, compared to this embodiment, it is more difficult to create a through-hole channel in it that penetrates the inner cavity of the shell component.

[0094] from Figure 6 As can be seen from the diagram, this embodiment also has multiple protrusions 11 arranged in an array on the inner surface of the lower cover plate 3. The tops of the protrusions 11 are used to support the electrode assembly, and the gaps between the protrusions 11 serve as electrolyte flow channels. The aforementioned multiple protrusions 11 can be arranged in a rectangular array or a ring array, etc.; the regularly arranged multiple protrusions 11 can provide stable and uniformly distributed support points for the electrode assembly, avoiding the situation where excessive local stress leads to deformation or damage of the electrode assembly. In addition, using the gaps between the protrusions 11 as electrolyte flow channels allows the electrolyte to be evenly distributed around the electrode assembly, ensuring that the electrodes in each part can fully contact the electrolyte. Furthermore, during battery operation, if the temperature rises, the electrolyte stored in the electrolyte flow channels can quickly absorb heat through heat transfer, dispersing the absorbed heat throughout the casing and dissipating it through the casing surface. This effectively prevents battery overheating, reduces the risk of thermal runaway, precisely controls the temperature, and maintains battery performance.

[0095] In addition, in this embodiment, both the blind hole 31 and the connecting pipe 33 are hollow structures. After being constructed into a high-capacity battery, under the action of external force, the bottom end 32 of the blind hole and the second side wall area of ​​the lower cover plate 3 enclosed by the connecting pipe 33 will be hollow. Figure 6 The area shown in the middle circle (a) can be opened, immediately connecting the inner cavities of all blind holes 31 and the connecting pipe 33, and further connecting them with the inner cavities of all individual cells 14. In this way, the differences that may have existed between individual cells 14 can be effectively improved, ensuring the consistency of each individual cell 14 during charging and discharging, extending the overall service life, and improving the performance of the battery.

[0096] If adopted Figure 7 The structure shown, after being constructed into a high-capacity battery, under the action of external force, the closed end of the first sub-tube segment 10 and the second side wall area of ​​the lower cover plate 3 enclosed by the connecting tube 33 ( Figure 7 The area shown in the middle circle (a) can be opened, immediately connecting the inner cavities of all first sub-tube segments 10 and the connecting tube 33, and further connecting them with the inner cavities of all individual cells 14. This can also improve the differences that may exist between individual cells 14, ensure the consistency of individual cells 14 during charging and discharging, extend the overall service life, and improve battery performance.

[0097] The above-mentioned external force generally refers to using appropriate tools to apply a certain force to the bottom end 32 of the blind hole (or the closed end of the first sub-pipe section 10) and the second side wall area of ​​the lower cover plate 3 enclosed by the connecting pipe 33, so as to break it and form an opening.

[0098] Example 2

[0099] Unlike the embodiments described above, this embodiment, in order to further reduce costs, requires that the strength of the casing of each individual battery cell 14 meets certain requirements. In this embodiment, the casing strength is not required to meet the strength requirements during the thermal runaway stage; it only needs to meet the strength requirements during the formation stage and the normal charge / discharge process. During the formation stage and the normal charge / discharge process, the battery undergoes a series of chemical reactions and physical changes. During this process, certain pressure and heat are generated inside the battery. The casing needs to have sufficient strength to withstand this pressure and heat to ensure the smooth progress of the formation process and the normal use of the battery.

[0100] We can assume that the strength of the casing is P, P1≤P≤P2; where P1 is the strength requirement of the casing during the formation stage and the normal charging and discharging stage of the battery; and P2 is the strength requirement of the casing during the thermal runaway stage.

[0101] Under the premise of meeting the above strength requirements, in this embodiment, the thickness of the shell (cylinder 2, upper cover plate 1, and lower cover plate 3) is h, where h is less than h0, and h0 is the thickness of the plastic shell of the conventional single-cell battery 14; the thickness of the plastic shell of the conventional single-cell battery 14 is typically 5-8 mm. In this embodiment, the thickness of the shell can be between 1-4 mm. By reducing the thickness of the shell of the conventional single-cell battery 14 with a plastic shell, better heat dissipation can be achieved, and the battery energy density can also be increased. In addition, reducing the thickness of the plastic shell means using less plastic material, which helps to save material costs and provides an economic advantage for large-scale production and application.

[0102] Example 3

[0103] This embodiment is a high-capacity battery, including a pressure-bearing casing 12 and 12 individual battery cells 14 as described in the above embodiment. In other embodiments, the number of individual battery cells 14 can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0104] Its structure is as follows Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, 12 individual battery cells 14 from the above embodiments are arranged inside the pressure-bearing housing 12. The pressure-bearing housing 12 is provided with an explosion vent (the explosion vent can also be called an explosion-proof part, explosion-proof port, or explosion vent, etc., and is usually provided with a pressure relief valve or explosion vent membrane, etc.).

[0105] like Figure 10 As shown, inside the pressure-bearing housing 12, among adjacent individual cells 14, the connecting pipe 33 of one individual cell 14 is inserted into the blind hole 31 of another individual cell 14 and connected by heat fusion.

[0106] In this embodiment, appropriate tools are used to open the second sidewall area of ​​the lower cover plate 3 enclosed by the bottom end 32 of the blind holes 31 and the connecting pipe 33 of each individual battery cell 14, so that the inner cavities of all blind holes 31 and connecting pipe 33 are connected, and further connected to the inner cavities of all individual battery cells 14, allowing the electrolyte in the inner cavities of all individual battery cells 14 to be shared, thereby obtaining a large-capacity battery. Based on electrolyte sharing, the potential differences between individual battery cells 14 are improved, ensuring the consistency of each individual battery cell 14 during charging and discharging, extending the overall service life, and improving the performance of the large-capacity battery.

[0107] The aforementioned tool should have a sharp head and a certain strength, such as a long steel needle. Specifically, the following process can be used to open the blind hole bottom 32 of each individual battery cell 14 and the second side wall area of ​​the lower cover plate 3 enclosed by the connector 33: Insert the tool into the blind hole 31 of one of the outermost individual battery cells 14 along the x-direction, apply a pushing force, and open the blind hole bottom 32 of each individual battery cell 14 and the second side wall area of ​​the lower cover plate 3 enclosed by the connector 33.

[0108] It should be noted that:

[0109] 1. To ensure that the inner cavity of each individual cell 14 in the large-capacity battery is not affected by the external environment, the second side wall area of ​​the lower cover plate 3 enclosed by the connecting pipe 33 of one of the two outermost individual cells 14 of the large-capacity battery does not need to be opened, and the blind hole 31 opening of the other outermost individual cell 14 also needs to be sealed.

[0110] 2. In order to improve the regularity of the entire large-capacity battery structure, this embodiment can cut off the outermost single cell 14 to expose the unconnected connecting pipe 33. After cutting off, it is necessary to ensure the sealing of the casing of the single cell 14.

[0111] The strength of the aforementioned pressure-bearing casing 12 needs to meet the strength requirements of the casing during thermal runaway, meaning that the pressure-bearing casing 12 needs to have good strength. This design not only effectively resists the high-pressure impact during thermal runaway with the reinforced outer encapsulation casing, greatly improving the overall safety of the large-capacity battery; especially when a lower-strength plastic casing is used as the casing for the internal individual cells 14, the pressure-bearing casing 12 can form a robust thermal barrier. Even in the extreme case where the casing of the individual cells 14 melts, it can effectively isolate high-temperature flames and harmful gases, preventing the spread of thermal runaway and improving the safety of the large-capacity battery after thermal runaway. In addition, when plastic material is used as the casing for the internal individual cells 14, an anti-permeability membrane can be provided between each individual cell 14 and the pressure-bearing casing 12 to prevent the electrolyte inside each individual cell 14 from permeating outward.

[0112] Compared to other materials, the metal pressure-bearing housing 12 is more reliable in emergency situations such as thermal runaway. It can withstand greater impact and destructive forces, reducing the likelihood of accidents and protecting the safety of personnel and surrounding equipment. In this embodiment, the pressure-bearing housing 12 does not directly contact the electrolyte, so an iron, steel, or stainless steel housing can be used. Iron housings offer advantages in strength and cost, making them a viable option in scenarios where cost is a primary concern and strength requirements are not particularly stringent. Steel housings offer relatively high strength, providing more reliable protection for the battery and are suitable for applications with high safety and structural strength requirements. Stainless steel housings not only possess good strength properties but also excellent corrosion resistance, making them ideal for battery applications facing humid or corrosive environments. This effectively extends battery life and ensures stable operation in complex environments.

[0113] like Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, in this embodiment, a clearance hole 15 can also be provided on the top plate of the pressure-bearing housing 12 corresponding to the polarity terminal 16 of each individual battery 14; the polarity terminal 16 of each individual battery 14 extends out of the clearance hole 15; the top plate area of ​​the pressure-bearing housing 12 corresponding to the clearance hole 15 is fixedly sealed with the housing of the individual battery 14.

[0114] To optimize the heat dissipation performance of the aforementioned high-capacity battery, this embodiment further includes a heat exchange component 13 to exchange heat with the polarity terminal 16. The polarity terminal 16 is a crucial component connecting the battery's internal and external components; during charging and discharging, current flows through the terminal 16 into and out of the battery. When heat is generated inside the battery, heat dissipation through the polarity terminal 16 provides a relatively direct heat conduction path. Heat can be rapidly conducted from inside the battery to the polarity terminal 16, and then dissipated from the terminal 16 into the external environment. Furthermore, since the polarity terminal 16 is typically located at the positive and negative terminals of the battery, these areas are often where heat is concentrated during charging and discharging. By dissipating heat from the polarity terminal 16, the temperature of these critical components can be reduced more effectively.

[0115] The heat exchange component 13 can be a heat transfer tube; each polarity terminal 16 of the individual cell 14 is provided with a through groove or through hole for installing the heat transfer tube; the heat transfer tube is fixed in the through groove or through hole of the polarity terminal 16 of each individual cell 14. By using the heat transfer tube on the polarity terminal 16, the heat generated inside the battery is conducted to the heat transfer tube through the polarity terminal 16, and then the heat transfer tube dissipates the heat to achieve heat dissipation of the battery.

[0116] The heat exchange component 13 can also be a heat exchange device, which is disposed on top of each individual battery cell 14. A polar terminal 16 penetrates the heat exchange device, with at least a portion of its structure located within the heat exchange device's inner cavity and in direct contact with the heat exchange medium. Another portion of the polar terminal 16 is located outside the heat exchange device, serving as an electrical connection. The sidewall of the polar terminal 16 is sealed to the heat exchange device. By employing a direct heat exchange method, a portion of the polar terminal 16 is directly placed within the heat exchange medium flow cavity (the inner cavity of the heat exchange device), allowing direct contact between the polar terminal 16 and the heat exchange medium. This achieves heat exchange at the polar terminal 16, resulting in a shorter heat exchange path. The heat exchange medium directly acts on the polar terminal 16, improving the utilization efficiency of the heat exchange medium and enhancing the battery's heat exchange efficiency.

[0117] In this embodiment, an insulating sealant layer can also be provided between each individual battery cell 14 and between each individual battery cell 14 and the pressure-bearing housing 12. The insulating sealant layer is mainly laid in the space between each individual battery cell 14 and the pressure-bearing housing 12, and the heat exchange components 13 inside the pressure-bearing housing 12 are all located within the insulating sealant layer; when there are gaps between each individual battery cell 14, the insulating sealant liquid can also penetrate into the gaps to form an insulating sealant layer. In this embodiment, the insulating sealant layer has at least the following advantages:

[0118] 1. Prevent condensation;

[0119] During long-term use, due to the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the heat exchange component 13, condensation will form on the surface. When the condensation accumulates to a certain amount, it may cause a short circuit. By laying an insulating sealant layer to completely wrap the heat exchange component 13, when condensation forms on the surface of the heat exchange component 13, the battery short circuit can be prevented under the protection of the insulating sealant layer.

[0120] II. Further improve the stability of each individual battery cell 14 within the pressure-bearing casing 12;

[0121] The insulating sealant penetrates into the gaps between each individual cell 14 and between each individual cell 14 and the pressure-bearing housing 12, which can further improve the stability of each individual cell 14 within the pressure-bearing housing 12.

[0122] use Figure 11 and Figure 12 In the structure shown, an insulating sealant layer can also be laid on the top plate of the pressure-bearing shell 12, and the heat exchange component 13 is located inside the insulating sealant layer. When condensation occurs on the surface of the heat exchange component 13, the battery short circuit can be prevented under the protection of the insulating sealant layer.

Claims

1. A housing component for a single-cell battery, characterized in that: Includes a cylindrical body and a lower cover plate that is sealed and fixed to one of the open ends of the cylindrical body; both the cylindrical body and the lower cover plate are made of plastic. Along the height direction, from bottom to top, the inner cavity of the shell component is divided into an electrode assembly support area and an electrode assembly receiving area; The housing component area corresponding to the electrode assembly support area is provided with a recess and a protrusion; wherein the recess is used for the protrusion on the housing component of another single cell to be inserted and fixedly connected; under the action of external force, a channel can be opened in the protrusion and the recess, and the channel communicates with the inner cavity of the single cell housing component.

2. The housing component for a single battery according to claim 1, characterized in that: The recess is a blind hole formed on the first side wall of the lower cover plate; the protrusion is a connecting tube set on the outer wall of the second side wall of the lower cover plate; the connecting tube is used to insert into the blind hole of another single battery cell and to fix it in place; the first side wall and the second side wall are parallel to each other.

3. The housing component for a single battery according to claim 2, characterized in that: The inner surface of the lower cover plate has multiple protrusions arranged in an array. The top of the protrusions is used to support the electrode assembly, and the gap between the protrusions serves as an electrolyte flow channel.

4. The housing component for a single battery according to claim 3, characterized in that: Under the action of external force, the bottom end of the blind hole and the second side wall area of ​​the lower cover plate defined by the connecting pipe can be opened and connected to the electrolyte flow channel.

5. The housing component for a single battery according to claim 1, characterized in that: Both the recess and the protrusion are integral with the housing components; the recess is used for the protrusion of another single cell to be inserted and fixedly connected by heat fusion.

6. A single-cell battery, characterized in that: The device includes a housing, wherein the housing comprises a housing component for a single battery as described in any one of claims 1 to 5 and an upper cover plate sealed and fixed to the other open end of the cylinder, the upper cover plate being made of plastic.

7. The single-cell battery according to claim 6, characterized in that: The shell strength is P, where P1≤P≤P2; where P1 is the strength requirement of the shell during the formation stage and the normal charging and discharging stage of the battery; and P2 is the strength requirement of the shell during the thermal runaway stage.

8. A high-capacity battery, characterized in that: It includes a pressure-bearing housing and n individual battery cells as described in claim 6 or 7 arranged within the pressure-bearing housing, where n is an integer greater than 1; In adjacent individual cells, the protrusion of one individual cell is inserted into the recess of another individual cell and fixedly connected. The protrusion and the recess form a channel that penetrates the inner cavity of the individual cell casing. The pressure-bearing shell has the strength required for the shell during the thermal runaway stage, and the pressure-bearing shell is equipped with a venting section.

9. The high-capacity battery according to claim 8, characterized in that: The top plate of the pressure-bearing housing has clearance holes corresponding to the polarity terminals of each individual battery; the polarity terminals of each individual battery extend out of the clearance holes; the area of ​​the top plate of the pressure-bearing housing corresponding to the clearance holes is fixedly sealed to the individual battery housing.

10. The high-capacity battery according to claim 8, characterized in that: It also includes heat exchange components that exchange heat with the polarity terminals.

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