Battery monomer, battery device and electric equipment

Abstract

The utility model relates to a battery monomer, a battery device and electric equipment, the battery monomer comprises a shell, an electrode assembly and a supporting piece, the shell comprises a shell and an end cover, at least one side of the shell in a first direction is provided with a first opening, the end cover covers the first opening, and the end cover and the shell define a containing cavity; the electrode assembly is arranged in the containing cavity and comprises two end faces arranged in the first direction in a spaced mode and side faces connected between the two end faces, and the side faces comprise two first side faces arranged in the second direction in a spaced mode and two second side faces connected between the first side faces. The first direction, the second direction and the thickness direction of the electrode assembly intersect in pairs, and a first gap is formed between at least one first side face and the inner wall of the shell; at least part of the supporting piece is arranged in the first gap, the supporting piece comprises a buffering structure located in the first gap, and the buffering structure is arranged in a deformable mode in the second direction. The reliability of the battery monomer can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to battery cells, battery devices and electrical equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Batteries are widely used in electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric cars, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes, and power tools, etc.

[0003] However, in actual use, the internal structure of a single battery cell is unstable, resulting in low reliability. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of the above problems, this application provides a battery cell, a battery device, and an electrical device that can improve the reliability of the battery cell.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application proposes a battery cell, including a casing, an electrode assembly, and a support member. The casing includes a housing and an end cap. The housing has a first opening on at least one side in a first direction. The end cap covers the first opening and defines a receiving cavity with the housing. The electrode assembly is disposed in the receiving cavity and includes two end faces spaced apart along the first direction and a side face connected between the two end faces. The side face includes two first side faces spaced apart along a second direction and two second side faces connected between the first side faces. The first direction, the second direction, and the thickness direction of the electrode assembly intersect each other. At least one first side face forms a first gap with the inner wall of the housing. At least a portion of the support member is disposed in the first gap. The support member includes a buffer structure located in the first gap. The buffer structure is deformably disposed in the second direction.

[0006] In the embodiments of this application, the battery cell includes a casing, an electrode assembly, and a support member. The electrode assembly is located within a receiving cavity, and the casing provides housing and protection for the electrode assembly. The support member is disposed within a first gap, which can reduce the space for movement of the electrode assembly and provide side support and buffering for the electrode assembly, thereby improving the stability of the electrode assembly within the receiving cavity, reducing the risk of the electrode tabs breaking due to electrode assembly movement, and improving the reliability of the battery cell.

[0007] In some embodiments, the support member further includes a support portion disposed on the side of the first side facing the inner wall of the housing, and the buffer structure extends from the support portion toward the inner wall of the housing.

[0008] In these embodiments, the buffer structure extends toward the inner wall of the housing and is located on the side of the support portion away from the first side. The support portion can provide better support for the electrode assembly while reducing the pressure on the supported electrode assembly and improving the reliability of the electrode assembly.

[0009] In some embodiments, the extension direction of the buffer structure intersects with the second direction.

[0010] In these embodiments, the buffer structure can be compressed or rebounded through the deformation space on both sides of itself, without the need for additional elastic elements, which reduces the assembly difficulty and facilitates the assembly of the support and the shell.

[0011] In some embodiments, the number of first openings is one, or two first openings are provided at both ends of the housing in a first direction, and the end of the buffer structure away from the support is inclined toward one of the two first openings.

[0012] In these embodiments, there may be only one first opening, which serves as the insertion side for the electrode assembly, end cap, and support member to be installed into the housing. The end of the buffer structure away from the support is inclined towards the first opening to facilitate the installation of the support member. If the housing has two first openings in the first direction, one of the first openings can serve as the insertion side to facilitate the installation of the support member.

[0013] In some embodiments, the number of first openings is two, and the electrode assembly further includes a positive electrode tab and a negative electrode tab disposed on two end faces respectively, and the buffer structure is inclined toward the first opening on the side where the positive electrode tab is located.

[0014] In these embodiments, the buffer structure is tilted toward the first opening on the side where the positive electrode tab is located. In mass production, the support and electrode assembly can be uniformly installed into the housing along the same assembly direction, reducing assembly errors and improving convenience.

[0015] In some embodiments, the number of first openings is one, and the electrode assembly includes a positive electrode tab and a negative electrode tab disposed on one of its end faces, with the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab located on the side of the electrode assembly facing the first opening.

[0016] In these embodiments, the positive and negative tabs are located at the same end of the electrode assembly, which simplifies the setup of the end cap and electrode terminals, and makes the connection between the electrode assembly and the end cap easier.

[0017] In some embodiments, along the first direction, the length of the support portion is less than the length of the housing; and / or, along the first direction, the length of the support portion is greater than the length of the electrode assembly on the side near the support portion; and / or, along the second direction, the size of the support member is not greater than the size of the first gap.

[0018] In these embodiments, the risk of interference between the support and the end cap or housing can be reduced, and the support effect of the support can be improved.

[0019] In some embodiments, the number of buffer structures is multiple, and the multiple buffer structures are spaced apart along a first direction.

[0020] In these embodiments, multiple buffer structures are provided to improve the support effect of the support member, making the support member more stable for the electrode assembly. The gaps between the multiple buffer structures can provide space for the deformation of the buffer structure.

[0021] In some embodiments, along a first direction, the buffer structure has a first width, which is the minimum or average width of the buffer structure, and the first width is greater than 1 mm and less than 20 mm.

[0022] In these embodiments, setting the first width to be greater than 1 mm provides the buffer structure with sufficient strength to prevent it from breaking easily. Setting the first width to be less than 20 mm reduces interference between the buffer structure and the sidewall of the first opening, facilitating the insertion of the support member into the housing through the first opening.

[0023] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly is a stacked electrode assembly, which includes a plurality of sub-stacks stacked sequentially along a third direction, the third direction being parallel to the thickness direction of the electrode assembly.

[0024] In these embodiments, the support can effectively prevent the sub-laminated plates from shifting in the second direction, thereby improving the stability of the laminated electrode assembly and reducing the risk of the tabs being pulled and broken.

[0025] In some embodiments, the area of ​​the first side is smaller than the area of ​​the second side.

[0026] In these embodiments, the area of ​​the second side is larger than that of the first side. The second side serves as the large surface of the electrode assembly, and the two second sides are spaced apart along the thickness direction. The support member supports the electrode assembly along the second direction and supports the electrode assembly from the side, which more effectively reduces the space for movement of the electrode assembly, improves the stability of the electrode assembly in the cavity, reduces the risk of the electrode tab of the electrode assembly breaking due to the movement of the electrode assembly, and improves the reliability of the battery cell.

[0027] In some embodiments, the battery cell includes two support members, and a first gap is formed between each first side and the inner wall of the housing, with each support member corresponding to each first gap.

[0028] In these embodiments, the electrode assembly is supported from two directions by providing support members in the two first gaps respectively, resulting in more stable support.

[0029] In some embodiments, the battery cell further includes an insulating element disposed between the end cap and the electrode assembly, and the support element is connected to the insulating element.

[0030] In these embodiments, by providing an insulating element, a connection space can be provided between the tab and the electrode terminal, as well as to separate the body and end cap of the electrode assembly, thereby reducing the risk of short circuit between the electrode assembly and the end cap.

[0031] Secondly, this application provides a battery device comprising a battery cell according to any of the first aspects of the above embodiments.

[0032] Thirdly, this application provides an electrical device that includes a battery cell from any of the first aspects of the above-described embodiments; or includes a battery device from the second aspect of the above-described embodiments, wherein the battery device is used to provide electrical energy.

[0033] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The features, advantages, and technical effects of exemplary embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery module provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery cell during assembly according to an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Enlarged view of section A;

[0040] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery cell provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Enlarged view of section B;

[0042] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the support member in a battery cell according to an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 9 This is a partially enlarged view of the support member in a battery cell provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 10 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly in a battery cell provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0045] The accompanying drawings may not be drawn to scale.

[0046] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0047] 1000, vehicles;

[0048] 100. Battery assembly; 110. Controller; 120. Motor;

[0049] 200. Battery module;

[0050] 300. Enclosure; 301. First enclosure; 302. Second enclosure;

[0051] 10. Battery cells;

[0052] 1. Outer shell; 11. Housing; 111. Receiving cavity; 112. First opening; 113. First gap; 12. End cap; 121. Electrode terminal;

[0053] 2. Support component; 21. Support part; 22. Buffer structure;

[0054] 3. Electrode assembly; 31. Side surface; 311. First side surface; 312. Second side surface; 32. Positive electrode tab; 33. Negative electrode tab; 34. Sub-laminated sheet; 35. Isolator;

[0055] 4. Insulating components;

[0056] D1, first width; α, first included angle;

[0057] X, first direction; Y, second direction; Z, third direction. Detailed Implementation

[0058] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, 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] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0060] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0061] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" 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 direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication 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] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0063] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0064] In this application, "multiple" means two or more (including two).

[0065] Currently, judging from market trends, the application of battery devices is becoming increasingly widespread. Battery devices are not only used in energy storage power systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power plants, but also widely applied in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric cars, as well as in military equipment and aerospace. With the continuous expansion of battery device applications, market demand is also constantly increasing.

[0066] During use, battery cells are prone to tab cracking, leading to interruption or open circuit in the electrode assembly's electrical circuit. In-depth research has revealed that the cause of tab cracking is that the external environment during battery cell use is not stable and static; it involves complex operating conditions such as bumps and vibrations. For example, when a vehicle is driving on rough roads, there is usually a gap between the battery cell's electrode assembly and the casing to facilitate assembly or provide expansion space for the electrode assembly. However, impacts such as bumps and vibrations are transmitted to the inside of the battery cell, causing the electrode assembly to shift and pull on the tabs, resulting in tab cracking and an interruption or open circuit in the electrode assembly's electrical circuit.

[0067] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a battery cell comprising a housing, an electrode assembly, and a support member. The electrode assembly is located within a receiving cavity, and the housing provides containment and protection for the electrode assembly. The support member, positioned within a first gap, reduces the space for movement of the electrode assembly and provides lateral support and cushioning, thereby improving the stability of the electrode assembly within the receiving cavity. This reduces the risk of the electrode tabs breaking due to electrode assembly movement and enhances the reliability of the battery cell.

[0068] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to battery devices and electrical equipment using battery devices.

[0069] Electrical equipment can include vehicles, mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and power tools, etc. Vehicles can be gasoline-powered cars, natural gas-powered cars, or new energy vehicles; new energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. Spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc. Electric toys include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Power tools include metal cutting power tools, grinding power tools, assembly power tools, and railway power tools, such as electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, impact drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers, etc. This application does not impose any special limitations on the above-mentioned electrical equipment.

[0070] In this embodiment of the application, the battery cell can be a secondary battery, which refers to a battery cell that can be recharged to activate the active materials and continue to be used after the battery cell has been discharged.

[0071] The battery cell can be a lithium-ion battery, sodium-ion battery, sodium-lithium-ion battery, lithium metal battery, sodium metal battery, lithium-sulfur battery, magnesium-ion battery, nickel-metal hydride battery, nickel-cadmium battery, lead-acid battery, etc., and this application embodiment is not limited to this. The battery cell can be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes, and this application embodiment is not limited to this either.

[0072] The battery device mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module comprising one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery device mentioned in this application may include a battery module or a battery pack. A battery pack generally includes a housing for encapsulating one or more battery cells. The housing can prevent liquids or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells.

[0073] A single battery cell includes electrode components and an electrolyte. The electrode components include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. The battery cell primarily functions by the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrode components. The positive electrode includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer, the latter coated on the surface of the current collector. The current collector includes a positive current-collecting section and a positive electrode tab connected to it. The current-collecting section is coated with the positive active material layer, while the tab is not. Taking a lithium-ion battery as an example, the positive current collector can be made of aluminum, and the positive active material layer includes the positive active material, which can be lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, or lithium manganese oxide, etc. The negative electrode sheet includes a negative current collector and a negative active material layer, the negative active material layer being coated on the surface of the negative current collector. The negative current collector includes a negative current collection section and a negative electrode tab connected to the negative current collection section. The negative current collection section is coated with the negative active material layer, while the negative electrode tab is not coated with the negative active material layer. The material of the negative current collector can be copper, and the negative active material layer includes negative active material, which can be carbon or silicon, etc. The material of the separator can be PP (polypropylene) or PE (polyethylene), etc.

[0074] It should be understood that the technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are not limited to the battery devices and electrical equipment described above, but can also be applied to all battery devices including housings and electrical equipment using battery devices. However, for the sake of brevity, the following embodiments are all illustrated using electric vehicles as examples.

[0075] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle provided in some embodiments of this application. The vehicle 1000 can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. A battery device 100 is provided inside the vehicle 1000, and the battery device 100 can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle 1000. The battery device 100 can be used to power the vehicle 1000; for example, the battery device 100 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000. The vehicle 1000 may also include a controller 110 and a motor 120. The controller 110 is used to control the battery to supply power to the motor 120, for example, to meet the power needs of the vehicle 1000 during starting, navigation, and driving.

[0076] In some embodiments of this application, the battery device 100 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000, but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 1000, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.

[0077] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a battery device according to an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0078] The battery device 100 mentioned in the embodiments of this application may include one or more battery cell assemblies for providing voltage and capacity. A battery cell assembly may include multiple battery cells 10, which are connected in series, parallel, or mixed connections via a busbar.

[0079] In some embodiments, the battery cell assembly is typically formed by arranging a plurality of battery cells 10.

[0080] As an example, the battery cell assembly can be a battery module 200, which is formed by arranging and fixing multiple battery cells 10 into a single module. As an example, the battery module 200 can be formed by bundling multiple battery cells 10 together with cable ties.

[0081] In some embodiments, the battery device 100 may be a battery pack, which includes a housing 300 and one or more battery cell assemblies housed in the housing 300.

[0082] As an example, the battery cell assembly can be a battery module 200, which can be housed in the housing 300 by fixing the battery module 200 in the housing 300.

[0083] As an example, the battery cell assembly can also be housed in the housing 300 by directly fixing multiple battery cells 10 to the housing 300.

[0084] As an example, the housing 300 may include a first housing 301 and a second housing 302. The first housing 301 and the second housing 302 are fastened together to form a closed space inside the housing 300 to house the battery cell assembly. Here, "closed" refers to covering or closing, and can be either sealed or unsealed. The first housing 301 may be a top cover or a bottom plate.

[0085] As an example, the housing 300 may include a top cover, a frame, and a bottom plate. The top cover and the bottom plate are respectively connected to the frame, so that the interior of the housing 300 forms an enclosed space to accommodate the battery cell assembly.

[0086] In some embodiments, the housing 300 may be part of the chassis structure of the vehicle 1000. For example, a portion of the housing 300 may be at least a portion of the floor of the vehicle 1000, or a portion of the housing 300 may be at least a portion of the crossbeams and longitudinal beams of the vehicle 1000.

[0087] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a battery module according to an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0088] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, there are multiple battery cells 10. These multiple battery cells 10 are first connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner to form a battery module 200. The multiple battery modules 200 are then connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner to form a whole, which is housed in the casing 300.

[0089] Multiple battery cells 10 in the battery module 200 can be electrically connected through a busbar component to achieve parallel, series, or mixed connection of multiple battery cells 10 in the battery module 200.

[0090] In this application, the battery cell 10 may include lithium-ion battery cells, sodium-ion battery cells, or magnesium-ion battery cells, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to this.

[0091] A battery cell 10 refers to the smallest unit that makes up a battery. A battery cell 10 includes a housing 11, an end cap 12, and an electrode assembly 3.

[0092] Electrode assembly 3 is the component in the battery cell 10 where electrochemical reactions occur. The casing 11 may contain one or more electrode assemblies 3. Electrode assembly 3 is mainly formed by winding or stacking electrode sheets, which are divided into positive and negative electrode sheets, and a separator is usually provided between the positive and negative electrode sheets. The portions of the positive and negative electrode sheets containing active material constitute the electrode body, while the portions of the positive and negative electrode sheets without active material each constitute a tab. The positive and negative tabs can be located together at one end of the electrode body or separately at both ends of the electrode body. During the charging and discharging process of the battery cell 10, the positive and negative active materials react with the electrolyte, and the tabs connect to the electrode terminals 121 to form a current loop.

[0093] The electrode assembly 3 can be a wound structure, a stacked structure, or a hybrid structure of wound and stacked.

[0094] In some embodiments, electrode assembly 3 is a wound structure. The positive electrode and negative electrode are wound into a wound structure.

[0095] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 3 is a stacked structure. As an example, multiple positive and negative electrodes can be provided, with multiple positive and multiple negative electrodes stacked alternately. Multiple spacers can be provided and respectively provided between any adjacent positive or negative electrodes. Alternatively, the spacers can be provided continuously and provided between any adjacent positive or negative electrodes by folding.

[0096] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 3 may be flat or polygonal in shape.

[0097] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 3 is provided with tabs that can conduct current from the electrode assembly 3. The tabs include a positive tab and a negative tab.

[0098] The battery cell 10 may include a housing 11. The housing 11 is an assembly that mates with the end cap 12 to form an internal environment for the battery cell 10, wherein the formed internal environment can accommodate the electrode assembly 3, electrolyte (not shown in the figure), and other components. The housing 11 can be a steel housing, an aluminum housing, a plastic housing (such as polypropylene), a composite metal housing (such as a copper-aluminum composite housing 11), or an aluminum-plastic film, etc. In some embodiments, the housing 11 can be a sealed structure or a non-sealed structure. As an example, when the housing 11 is a non-sealed structure, the housing 11 serves to protect the electrode assembly 3, and a sealing bag is included between the housing 11 and the electrode assembly 3. The sealing bag is used to encapsulate the electrode assembly 3 and the electrolyte. Specifically, the sealing bag can be a bag-shaped insulating component or an aluminum-plastic film. When the housing 11 is a sealed structure, it is used to encapsulate the electrode assembly 3 and electrolyte, etc.

[0099] As an example, the battery cell 10 can be a prismatic battery cell, a pouch battery cell or a battery cell of other shapes. The prismatic battery cell includes a square-shell battery cell, a blade-shaped battery cell, a multi-prismatic battery, and the multi-prismatic battery is, for example, a hexagonal prism battery, etc., and there is no special limitation in this application.

[0100] The housing 11 and the end cap 12 can be independent components. One or more first openings 112 can be provided on the housing 11, and one or more end caps 12 cover the first openings 112 to form the internal environment of the battery cell 10. Optionally, the end cap 12 and the housing 11 can also be integrated. Optionally, the end cap 12 and the housing 11 can form a common connection surface before other components are put into the housing, and when it is necessary to encapsulate the interior of the housing 11, the end cap 12 is then made to cover the housing 11.

[0101] In some embodiments, the electrode terminal 121 can be provided on the end cap 12 or on the housing 11, and the electrode terminal 121 is electrically connected to the tab. The electrode terminal 121 can be directly connected to the tab or indirectly connected to the tab through a转接构件 (transfer member).

[0102] Please refer to Figures 4 to 7 , Figure 4 which shows a schematic structural diagram of a battery cell during assembly provided by this application; Figure 5 which shows Figure 4 an enlarged view of part A in Figure 6 which shows a cross-sectional view of a battery cell provided by this application; Figure 7 which shows Figure 6 an enlarged view of part B in

[0103] Referring to Figures 4 to 7 , in a first aspect, this application proposes a battery cell 10. The battery cell 10 includes a housing 1, an electrode assembly 3 and a support member 2. The housing 1 includes a housing body 11 and an end cap 12. The housing body 11 is provided with a first opening 112 on at least one side in the first direction X. The end cap 12 is disposed on the first opening 112 and defines a receiving cavity 111 with the housing body 11; the electrode assembly 3 is disposed in the receiving cavity 111. The electrode assembly 3 includes two end faces spaced apart in the first direction X and a side face 31 connected between the two end faces. The side face 31 includes two first side faces 311 spaced apart in the second direction Y and two second side faces 312 connected between the first side faces 311. The first direction X, the second direction Y and the thickness direction of the electrode assembly 3 intersect pairwise. A first gap 113 is formed between at least one first side face 311 and the inner wall of the housing body 11; at least part of the support member 2 is disposed in the first gap 113. The support member 2 includes a buffer structure 22 located in the first gap 113, and the buffer structure 22 is deformable in the second direction Y.

[0104] The buffer structure 22 may include an elastic element, such as a compression spring or a rubber spring. The buffer structure 22 may also possess a certain elastic modulus, allowing it to be compressed in the second direction Y, thereby providing a buffering and restoring force and reducing the impact of battery cell 10 vibration on the electrode assembly 3. The buffer structure 22 may also be inclined relative to the second direction, and have deformation spaces on both sides for compression or rebound, which can also provide a buffering effect for the electrode assembly 3.

[0105] The thickness direction generally refers to the dimension of an object in a direction perpendicular to its main surface area. The thickness direction of electrode assembly 3 can be understood as the direction perpendicular to the surface with the larger surface area in the side 31 of electrode assembly 3. Alternatively, if electrode assembly 3 is a stacked structure, the direction in which the sub-stacks 34 are stacked sequentially is the thickness direction of electrode assembly 3.

[0106] Optionally, the two second side surfaces 312 are spaced apart along a third direction Z, which is parallel to the thickness direction. Optionally, the area of ​​the second side surface 312 is larger than the area of ​​the first side surface 311.

[0107] At least a portion of the support member 2 is disposed within the first gap 113. This can be either entirely within the first gap 113 or include a portion extending beyond the first gap 113. The support member 2 can be made of a material with a certain degree of elasticity, such as plastic or rubber. The support member 2 can also be an insulating material to reduce the risk of electrical connection between the electrode assembly 3 and the housing 11 via the support member 2. Other insulating materials can be disposed between the support member 2 and the inner wall of the housing 11 or between the support member 2 and the electrode assembly 3; no specific limitations are made here.

[0108] In the embodiments of this application, the battery cell 10 includes a housing 1, an electrode assembly 3, and a support member 2. The electrode assembly 3 is located within a receiving cavity 111, and the housing 1 provides housing and protection for the electrode assembly 3. The support member 2 is disposed within a first gap 113, which can reduce the space for movement of the electrode assembly 3 and provide side support and buffering for the electrode assembly 3, thereby improving the stability of the electrode assembly 3 within the receiving cavity 111, reducing the risk of the electrode tabs of the electrode assembly 3 breaking due to movement of the electrode assembly 3, and improving the reliability of the battery cell 10.

[0109] Optionally, the minimum distance between the first side 311 and the inner wall of the housing 11 is greater than the minimum distance between the second side 312 and the inner wall of the housing 11.

[0110] When in use, the electrode assembly 3 will mainly expand along its own thickness direction. The first gap 113 is not located between the side 31 and the housing 11 in the thickness direction. The support 2 located in the first gap 113 can effectively support the housing 11 and the first side 311, which can effectively reduce the movement of the electrode assembly 3 and has less impact / interference on the expansion of the electrode assembly 3.

[0111] Reference Figure 7 In some embodiments, the support member 2 further includes a support portion 21, which is disposed on the side of the first side 311 facing the inner wall of the housing 11, and the buffer structure 22 extends from the support portion 21 toward the inner wall of the housing 11.

[0112] The support portion 21 can directly abut against the first side surface 311, or there can be other structures between them, with the support portion 21 indirectly abutting against the first side surface 311. The support portion 21 can be plate-shaped and abut against the first side surface 311 of the electrode assembly 3. The contact area between the support portion 21 and the first side surface 311 is relatively large, which can effectively reduce the pressure exerted by the support member 2 on the electrode assembly 3 and reduce the risk of damage to the electrode assembly 3.

[0113] The housing 11 can withstand greater pressure relative to the electrode assembly 3. The buffer structure 22 can be used to abut against the inner wall of the housing 11. The buffer structure 22 and the inner wall of the housing 11 can have a gap smaller than the size of the first gap 113, or other support structures can be provided between them. There can be multiple buffer structures 22, which are spaced apart on the side of the support 21 away from the electrode assembly 3. When the battery cell 10 is impacted, because the support member 2 provides support for the electrode assembly 3 and reduces the space for movement, the movement amplitude of the electrode assembly 3 in the second direction Y is greatly reduced, making it less likely to pull the tabs, thus improving the stability and reliability of the battery cell 10.

[0114] In these embodiments, the buffer structure 22 extends toward the inner wall of the housing 11 and is located on the side of the support portion 21 away from the first side 311. The support portion 21 can provide better support for the electrode assembly 3 while reducing the pressure on the supported electrode assembly 3 and improving the reliability of the electrode assembly 3.

[0115] In some embodiments, the extension direction of the buffer structure 22 intersects the second direction Y.

[0116] The buffer structure 22 extends from the support portion 21 toward the inner wall of the housing 11. The support portion 21 and the inner wall of the housing 11 are spaced apart along the second direction Y. In these embodiments, the extension direction of the buffer structure 22 does not coincide with the second direction Y. That is, the buffer structure 22 is not perpendicular to the support portion 21, but is inclined. The buffer structure 22 can be compressed or rebounded through the deformation space on both sides of itself, thereby providing buffer for the electrode assembly 3.

[0117] In these embodiments, the buffer structure 22 can be integrally provided with the support 21, so there is no need to provide other elastic elements, which reduces the assembly difficulty and facilitates the assembly of the support 2 with the housing 11.

[0118] Figure 8 This application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a support member in a battery cell. Figure 9 A partially enlarged view of the support member in the battery cell provided in this application is shown.

[0119] Combined with reference Figures 4 to 9 In some embodiments, the end of the buffer structure 22 away from the support portion 21 is inclined toward the first opening 112. In the plane formed by the first direction X and the second direction Y, a first included angle α is formed between the buffer structure 22 and the support portion 21. The first included angle α is an acute angle and the opening is set toward the first opening 112.

[0120] The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z can be perpendicular to each other. The plane formed by the first direction X and the second direction Y is a plane perpendicular to the third direction Z, which can also be understood as a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction of the electrode assembly 3.

[0121] If the housing 11 has only one first opening 112 in the first direction X, the first opening 112 is the insertion side of the electrode assembly 3, end cap 12 and support 2 into the housing 11. If the housing 11 has two first openings 112 in the first direction X, one of the first openings 112 serves as the insertion side of the housing 11, the following description in this application will use the first opening 112 serving as the insertion side as an example.

[0122] The buffer structure 22 is inclined at one end away from the support 21 toward the first opening 112, that is, the buffer structure 22 is inclined toward the first opening 112 as a whole. For example, the buffer structure 22 has two surfaces, one near the first opening 112 and one away from the first opening 112, and the ends of the two surfaces away from the support 21 are inclined toward the first opening 112.

[0123] like Figure 5 As shown, when the electrode assembly 3, end cap 12, and support member 2 are assembled and inserted into the first opening 112, the support member 2 is partially located outside the first opening 112, with the tip of the first included angle α pointing towards the first opening 112. This reduces interference between the buffer structure 22 and the sidewall of the first opening 112, making it easier to insert the electrode assembly 3, end cap 12, and support member 2 into the housing 11. After being inserted into the housing 11, as... Figure 7 As shown, the tip of the first included angle α is away from the first opening 112, while the opening of the first included angle α is towards the first opening 112.

[0124] In these embodiments, the end of the buffer structure 22 away from the support 21 is inclined toward the first opening 112, which can reduce the interference between the support 2 and the side wall of the first opening 112 when it is installed into the housing 11, and facilitate the installation of the electrode assembly 3, the end cap 12 and the support 2 into the housing 11 together.

[0125] In some embodiments, the number of first openings 112 is one, or two first openings 112 are disposed at both ends of the housing 11 in the first direction X, and the end of the buffer structure 22 away from the support 21 is inclined toward one of the two first openings 112.

[0126] In these embodiments, there may be only one first opening 112. This first opening 112 is the insertion side of the electrode assembly 3, end cap 12, and support member 2 into the housing 11. The end of the buffer structure 22 away from the support portion 21 is inclined towards the first opening 112 to facilitate the insertion of the support member 2. If the housing 11 has two first openings 112 in the first direction X, one of the first openings 112 can serve as the insertion side to facilitate the insertion of the support member 2.

[0127] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, there are two first openings 112, and the electrode assembly 3 also includes a positive electrode tab 32 and a negative electrode tab 33 disposed on two end faces. The buffer structure 22 is inclined toward the first opening 112 on the side where the positive electrode tab 32 is located.

[0128] Each first opening 112 may be provided with an end cap 12, and each end cap 12 is provided with an electrode terminal 121 for electrical connection with the positive electrode tab 32 or the negative electrode tab 33. Using the first opening 112 on the side where the positive electrode tab 32 is located as the insertion side of the housing 11 can standardize the assembly direction of the support member 2 and the electrode assembly 3.

[0129] In these embodiments, the buffer structure 22 is inclined toward the first opening 112 on the side where the positive electrode tab 32 is located. In mass production, the support 2 and the electrode assembly 3 can be uniformly installed into the housing 11 along the same assembly direction, reducing assembly errors and improving convenience.

[0130] In some embodiments, the number of first openings 112 is one, and the electrode assembly 3 includes a positive electrode tab and a negative electrode tab 33 disposed on one of its end faces, and the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab 33 are located on the side of the electrode assembly 3 facing the first opening 112.

[0131] The end cap 12 may be provided with two electrode terminals 121, one electrode terminal 121 being electrically connected to the positive electrode tab and the other electrode terminal 121 being electrically connected to the negative electrode tab 33. Each electrode terminal 121 may be directly connected to the positive electrode tab / negative electrode tab 33, or it may be indirectly connected to the positive electrode tab / negative electrode tab 33 through an adapter component.

[0132] Electrode terminals 121 are used to connect electrode assembly 3 and external circuitry, thereby enabling interaction between battery cell 10 and the external environment, such as charging and discharging. The two electrode terminals 121 can be connected to the external circuitry as the positive and negative terminals of battery cell 10, respectively. For example, the two electrode terminals 121 can be spaced apart on end cap 12 along the second direction Y.

[0133] In these embodiments, the positive and negative tabs 33 are disposed at the same end of the electrode assembly 3, which simplifies the arrangement of the end cap 12 and the electrode terminal 121, and makes the connection between the electrode assembly 3 and the end cap 12 easier.

[0134] Reference Figure 9 In some embodiments, along the first direction X, the buffer structure 22 has a first width D1, which is the minimum or average width of the buffer structure 22, and the first width D1 is greater than 1 mm and less than 20 mm.

[0135] The first width D1 is the minimum or average dimension of the buffer structure 22 in the first direction X. For example, a vernier caliper can be used to measure the dimension of the buffer structure 22 on both sides in the first direction X, and measurements can be taken at multiple different locations, recording the minimum or average value. For instance, if 10 sets of data are taken and they are identical, then the minimum or average dimension of the buffer structure 22 in the first direction X is equal.

[0136] In these embodiments, setting the first width D1 to be greater than 1 mm can give the buffer structure 22 a certain strength so that it will not break easily. Setting the first width D1 to be less than 20 mm can reduce the interference between the buffer structure 22 and the side wall of the first opening 112, so that the support 2 can be inserted into the housing 11 through the first opening 112.

[0137] In some embodiments, along the first direction X, the length of the support portion 21 is less than the length of the housing 11; and / or, along the first direction X, the length of the support portion 21 is greater than the length of the electrode assembly 3 on the side near the support portion 21; and / or, along the second direction Y, the size of the support member 2 is not greater than the size of the first gap 113.

[0138] All dimensions of the above structures can be measured using vernier calipers, and all measurements are taken in their natural state. Optionally, in the first direction X, the length of each position of the support portion 21 is less than the length of each position of the housing 11. Optionally, in the first direction X, the length of each position of the support portion 21 is greater than the length of each position of the electrode assembly 3 near the support portion 21. Optionally, in the second direction Y, the dimensions of each position of the support member 2 are not greater than the dimensions of each position of the first gap 113.

[0139] Along the first direction X, the length of the support portion 21 is less than the length of the housing 11, which reduces the risk of interference between the support portion 21 and the end cap 12 or the housing 11 after assembly. The length of the support portion 21 is greater than the length of the electrode assembly 3 on the side near the support portion 21, allowing the support portion 21 to provide more comprehensive support for the electrode assembly 3 and improve the support effect. Furthermore, the portion of the support portion 21 extending beyond the electrode assembly 3 can be fixedly connected to other components to secure the support portion 21, for example, by connecting the support portion 21 to the insulating member 4 provided between the end cap 12 and the electrode assembly 3. Along the second direction Y, the size of the support member 2 is no greater than the size of the first gap 113. After the support member 2 and the electrode assembly 3 are installed in the housing 11, the support member 2 can still have a small gap with the housing 11 or the electrode assembly 3, allowing the electrode assembly 3 to expand or reducing interference when the electrode assembly 3, the end cap 12, and the support member 2 are assembled and installed together through the first opening 112.

[0140] In these embodiments, the risk of interference between the support 21 and the end cap 12 or the housing 11 can be reduced, and the support effect of the support member 2 can be improved.

[0141] In some embodiments, the number of buffer structures 22 is multiple, and the multiple buffer structures 22 are arranged at intervals along the first direction X.

[0142] The number of buffer structures 22 and the spacing between adjacent buffer structures 22 can be adaptively set according to actual conditions, for example, based on the length of the housing 11 along the first direction X and the length of the electrode assembly 3 along the first direction X. For example, Figure 8 As shown, the number of buffer structures 22 provided on a support part 21 can be 40 to 60.

[0143] In these embodiments, providing multiple buffer structures 22 can improve the support effect of the support member 2, making the support member 2 more stable in supporting the electrode assembly 3, and the gap between the multiple buffer structures 22 can provide space for the deformation of the buffer structure 22.

[0144] Figure 10 A partial cross-sectional view of the stacked electrode assembly in the battery cell provided in this application is shown.

[0145] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 3 is a stacked electrode assembly 3, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the electrode assembly 3 includes a plurality of sub-laminated sheets 34 stacked sequentially along a third direction Z, with the third direction Z being parallel to the thickness direction of the electrode assembly 3.

[0146] The electrode assembly 3 has a stacked structure. As an example, the multiple sub-staples 34 include multiple alternating layers of positive electrode plates and multiple negative electrode plates, with a spacer 35 between adjacent positive and negative electrode plates. Multiple spacers 35 can be provided and respectively disposed between any adjacent positive or negative electrode plates, or the spacers 35 can be continuously disposed and disposed between any adjacent positive or negative electrode plates by folding.

[0147] In these embodiments, the support member 2 can effectively prevent the sub-laminated plates 34 from moving in the second direction Y, thereby improving the stability of the laminated electrode assembly 3 and reducing the risk of the tabs being pulled and broken.

[0148] In some embodiments, the area of ​​the first side 311 is smaller than the area of ​​the second side 312.

[0149] Two first side surfaces 311 and two second side surfaces 312 are successively and alternately connected to form the side surface 31 of the electrode assembly 3.

[0150] In these embodiments, the area of ​​the second side surface 312 is larger than the area of ​​the first side surface 311. The second side surface 312 serves as the large surface of the electrode assembly 3, and the two second side surfaces 312 are spaced apart along the thickness direction. The support member 2 supports the electrode assembly 3 along the second direction Y. By supporting the electrode assembly 3 from the side, the space for movement of the electrode assembly 3 is reduced more effectively, the stability of the electrode assembly 3 in the receiving cavity 111 is improved, the risk of the tab of the electrode assembly 3 breaking due to the movement of the electrode assembly 3 is reduced, and the reliability of the battery cell 10 is improved.

[0151] Optionally, the orthographic projection of the electrode assembly along the third direction Z can be rectangular or elliptical, etc.

[0152] In some embodiments, the battery cell 10 includes two support members 2, and a first gap 113 is formed between each first side 311 and the inner wall of the housing 11, with each support member 2 corresponding to each first gap 113.

[0153] Two first gaps 113 are spaced apart along the second direction Y. Similarly, two support members 2 are spaced apart along the second direction Y. One support member 2 is provided in each first gap 113.

[0154] In these embodiments, by providing support members 2 in the two first gaps 113 respectively, the electrode assembly 3 is supported from two directions, resulting in more stable support.

[0155] In some embodiments, the battery cell 10 further includes an insulating member 4 disposed between the end cap 12 and the electrode assembly 3, and the support member 2 is connected to the insulating member 4.

[0156] The insulating component 4 serves as a support bracket, positioned between the electrode assembly 3 and the end cap 12. When the end cap 12 is pressed against the electrode assembly 3, the insulating component 4 also provides support and cushioning. For example, the insulating component 4 can be made of plastic. The support component 2 and the insulating component 4 can be bonded or heat-fused together.

[0157] In these embodiments, by providing the insulating element 4, a connection space can be provided between the tab and the electrode terminal 121, and the body of the electrode assembly 3 and the end cap 12 can be separated, thereby reducing the risk of short circuit between the electrode assembly 3 and the end cap 12.

[0158] Optionally, the support component 2 is a one-piece molded part to reduce the seams of the support component 2, improve the structural stability of the support component 2, and facilitate one-time molding.

[0159] Optionally, multiple electrode assemblies 3 can be set within the battery cell 10, and two or more electrode assemblies 3 can be stacked sequentially along the third direction Z.

[0160] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a battery device 100, including a battery cell 10 from any of the embodiments of the first aspect described above.

[0161] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an electrical device including a battery cell 10 from any of the embodiments of the first aspect described above, or a battery device 100 from the embodiments of the second aspect described above. The battery cell 10 or the battery device 100 is used to provide electrical energy to the electrical device.

[0162] The electrical equipment can be any of the aforementioned devices or systems that utilize battery devices 100.

[0163] Please see Figures 4 to 10According to some embodiments of this application, this application provides a battery cell 10, which includes a housing 1, an electrode assembly 3, and a support member 2. The housing 1 includes a shell 11 and an end cap 12. The shell 11 has a first opening 112 on at least one side in the first direction X. The end cap 12 covers the first opening 112 and defines a receiving cavity 111 with the shell 11. The electrode assembly 3 is disposed in the receiving cavity 111. The electrode assembly 3 includes two end faces spaced apart along the first direction X and a side surface 31 connected between the two end faces. The side surface 31 includes two first side surfaces 311 spaced apart along the second direction Y and two second side surfaces 312 connected between the first side surfaces 311. The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the thickness direction of the electrode assembly 3 intersect each other. At least one first side surface 311 forms a first gap 113 with the inner wall of the shell 11. At least a portion of the support member 2 is disposed in the first gap 113. The support member 2 includes a buffer structure 22 located in the first gap 113. The buffer structure 22 is deformably disposed in the second direction Y. The support member 2 also includes a support portion 21, which is disposed on the side of the first side 311 facing the inner wall of the housing 11. A buffer structure 22 extends from the support portion 21 toward the inner wall of the housing 11. The extending direction of the buffer structure 22 intersects the second direction Y. There are multiple buffer structures 22, which are spaced apart along the first direction X. The electrode assembly 3 is a stacked electrode assembly 3, which includes multiple sub-stacks 34 sequentially stacked along a third direction Z, parallel to the thickness direction of the electrode assembly 3.

[0164] Although this application has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications can be made thereto and components can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of this application. In particular, the technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any manner, provided there is no structural conflict. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A battery cell, characterized in that, include: The housing includes a shell and an end cap, wherein the shell has a first opening on at least one side in a first direction, and the end cap covers the first opening and defines a receiving cavity with the shell; An electrode assembly is disposed in the receiving cavity. The electrode assembly includes two end faces spaced apart along a first direction and a side surface connected between the two end faces. The side surface includes two first side surfaces spaced apart along a second direction and two second side surfaces connected between the first side surfaces. The first direction, the second direction, and the thickness direction of the electrode assembly intersect each other. At least one first side surface forms a first gap with the inner wall of the housing. A support member, at least a portion of which is disposed in the first gap, the support member including a buffer structure located in the first gap, the buffer structure being deformably disposed in the second direction.

2. The battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support member further includes a support portion disposed on the side of the first side facing the inner wall of the housing, and the buffer structure extends from the support portion toward the inner wall of the housing.

3. The battery cell according to claim 2, characterized in that, The extension direction of the buffer structure intersects with the second direction.

4. The battery cell according to claim 2, characterized in that, The number of the first openings is one, or two first openings are provided at both ends of the housing in the first direction, and the end of the buffer structure away from the support is inclined toward one of the two first openings.

5. The battery cell according to claim 4, characterized in that, The number of the first openings is two, and the electrode assembly also includes a positive electrode tab and a negative electrode tab respectively disposed on the two end faces. The buffer structure is inclined toward the first opening on the side where the positive electrode tab is located.

6. The battery cell according to claim 4, characterized in that, The number of the first opening is one, and the electrode assembly includes a positive electrode tab and a negative electrode tab disposed on one of the end faces, and the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab are located on the side of the electrode assembly facing the first opening.

7. The battery cell according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, Along the first direction, the length of the support portion is less than the length of the housing; And / or, along the first direction, the length of the support portion is greater than the length of the electrode assembly on the side closest to the support portion; And / or, along the second direction, the size of the support member is not greater than the size of the first gap.

8. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The number of buffer structures is multiple, and the multiple buffer structures are spaced apart along the first direction.

9. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Along the first direction, the buffer structure has a first width, which is the minimum or average width of the buffer structure, and the first width is greater than 1 mm and less than 20 mm.

10. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The electrode assembly is a stacked electrode assembly, which includes a plurality of sub-stacks stacked sequentially along a third direction, the third direction being parallel to the thickness direction of the electrode assembly.

11. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The area of ​​the first side is smaller than the area of ​​the second side.

12. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The battery cell includes two support members, and each of the first side surfaces is formed with the first gap between it and the inner wall of the housing. Each support member is arranged corresponding to each of the first gaps.

13. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The battery cell also includes an insulating component, which is disposed between the end cap and the electrode assembly, and the support component is connected to the insulating component.

14. A battery device, characterized in that, Includes the battery cell as described in any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, It includes a battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the battery cell being used to provide electrical energy; or it includes a battery device according to claim 14, the battery device being used to provide electrical energy.

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