Explosion-proof valve, battery and electric device

Abstract

The utility model provides an anti-explosion valve, a battery and an electric device. The anti-explosion valve comprises a valve body, a valve cover and a limiting structure. The valve body (21) is provided with a first through hole (211) penetrating through the valve body (21); the valve element assembly is arranged on the valve body (21) and comprises a valve cover (22) and a connecting piece (23), the valve cover (22) is located at a first position covering the first through hole (211), the valve cover (22) is configured to be far away from the first position under the action of external force to be in an opening state for opening the first through hole (211), the connecting piece (23) is connected with the valve body (21) and the valve cover (22), the connecting piece (23) is configured to be in a first state when the valve cover (22) is located at the first position, and the connecting piece (23) is configured to be in a second state when the valve cover (22) is located at the second position. In the process that the valve cover (22) is far away from the first position, the valve cover (22) is driven by the valve cover (22) to displace, rotate or deform; the limiting structure (24) is configured to prevent the connecting piece (23) from returning to the first state after the valve cover (22) is far away from the first position. The battery comprises the anti-explosion valve. The power utilization device comprises the battery.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to an explosion-proof valve, a battery, and an electrical device. Background Technology

[0002] During battery use, thermal runaway may occur due to factors such as overcharging, short circuits, and high temperatures. In such cases, the internal chemical reactions of the battery accelerate, and the temperature rises sharply. To prevent battery combustion or explosion accidents, a pressure relief vent is usually provided on the battery casing, and an explosion-proof valve is installed at the pressure relief vent. In related technologies, the explosion-proof valve is opened via a valve cover. However, after the explosion-proof valve is opened, the pressure in the battery cavity drops briefly, and the valve cover may return to the closed position within a short time, affecting the pressure relief of the battery cavity.

[0003] The above statements are for the purpose of providing background information in relation to this application only and do not necessarily constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an explosion-proof valve, a battery, and an electrical device, aiming to solve the problem that the valve cover may return to the closed position shortly after the explosion-proof valve is opened, thus affecting the pressure relief of the battery chamber.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides an explosion-proof valve, comprising:

[0006] The valve body has a first through hole that passes through it.

[0007] A valve core assembly, disposed on a valve body, includes a valve cover and a connector. The valve cover is located at a first position covering a first through hole. The valve cover is configured to move away from the first position under external force and be in an open state, opening the first through hole. The connector connects the valve body and the valve cover. The connector is configured to be in the first state when the valve cover is in the first position, and to undergo displacement, rotation, or deformation under the influence of the valve cover as the valve cover moves away from the first position.

[0008] The limiting structure is configured to prevent the connector from returning to the first state after the valve cover has moved away from the first position.

[0009] The limiting structure effectively prevents the valve cover from returning to its first position after opening. This ensures that the valve cover will not close again due to a decrease or disappearance of external force while in the open state, guaranteeing the stability of the explosion-proof valve's opening. For example, in cases of large pressure fluctuations or continuous pressure peaks inside the battery chamber, keeping the valve cover open helps to achieve continuous pressure relief, avoiding the risk of battery damage or even explosion caused by a rapid increase in pressure within the battery chamber.

[0010] In some embodiments, the valve body is further provided with a second through hole, the connector passes through the second through hole, and the limiting structure is disposed between the second through hole and the connector.

[0011] The second through hole can support or guide the connector, so that the connector remains stable during movement, such as during displacement, rotation or deformation, reducing the risk of it flying out or even being damaged.

[0012] In some embodiments, the limiting structure includes a limiting protrusion disposed on the wall of the second through hole, or the limiting protrusion disposed on the wall surface of the connector passing through the second through hole.

[0013] Limiting protrusions can limit the movement of related structures by locking them in place. By flexibly designing the position of the limiting protrusions, different working conditions can be met.

[0014] In some embodiments, a limiting protrusion is disposed on the wall of the second through hole, and when the valve cover is in the open state away from the first position, the limiting protrusion extends into the wall of the connector that passes through the second through hole.

[0015] Here, the opening and closing state of the valve cover can be controlled by controlling the relative position of the limiting protrusion with respect to the wall of the second through hole.

[0016] In some embodiments, a limiting protrusion is disposed on the wall surface of the second through hole of the connector, and when the valve cover is in the open state away from the first position, the limiting protrusion is located outside the second through hole.

[0017] Here, the opening and closing state of the valve cover can be controlled by controlling the relative position of the limiting protrusion with respect to the second through hole, for example, by positioning it inside or outside the second through hole.

[0018] In some embodiments, the connector has a mounting cavity with an opening on the circumferential sidewall of the connector; a limiting structure is at least partially disposed in the mounting cavity, and when the valve cover is in the open state away from the first position, the limiting protrusion extends through the opening to the axial outer side of the second through hole and between the valve cover.

[0019] The limiting protrusion extends through the opening and is locked between the support and the valve cover, which can effectively prevent the valve cover from returning to the closed position and will not close again due to the reduction or disappearance of external force, thus maintaining the stability of the valve cover in the open state.

[0020] In some embodiments, when the valve cover is in the first position, the limiting protrusion extends through the opening and abuts against the wall of the second through hole through which the connector passes.

[0021] The wall of the second through hole acts as a limit protrusion, keeping it inside the second through hole when the valve cover is closed. At the same time, when the valve cover is opened, the limit protrusion immediately extends and locks on the axial outside of the second through hole when the connecting piece moves to the opening position.

[0022] In some embodiments, the limiting structure includes:

[0023] Elastic part; and

[0024] The locking portion has a first end including a limiting protrusion and a second end connected to an elastic portion, which is configured to apply a force toward the limiting protrusion to the locking portion.

[0025] The elastic properties of the elastic part allow the locking part to respond quickly to the positional change of the opening on the connector when the valve cover is opened. For example, when the internal pressure of the battery cavity reaches a preset value, the valve cover opens quickly. When the connector moves to the position where the opening is outside the guide hole, the elastic part pushes the locking part under its own elasticity, causing the limiting protrusion to extend quickly.

[0026] In some embodiments, the mounting cavity includes:

[0027] A receiving cavity is provided in the radial center of the connector, and an elastic part is provided in the receiving cavity; and

[0028] A through hole is provided on the side wall of the connector forming the receiving cavity, and the locking part is inserted into the through hole.

[0029] A receiving cavity is provided in the radial center of the connector, which makes full use of the internal space of the connector for installing the limiting structure, making the entire explosion-proof valve structure more compact. The through hole is provided on the side wall of the connector for installing the locking part, and can also provide guidance for the locking part, so that the locking part moves along the direction of the through hole, thereby allowing the limiting protrusion to extend accurately between the support and the valve cover.

[0030] In some embodiments, the elastic part has a U-shaped structure, and the second end of the locking part is connected to one of the two free ends of the U-shaped structure. In the open state of the valve cover, both free ends of the U-shaped structure abut against the cavity wall of the receiving cavity.

[0031] The two free ends of the U-shaped structure abut against the cavity wall, providing dual-point support. This allows the elastic part to be stably embedded in the cavity and keeps the position of the locking part stable, which helps to keep the valve cover in a stable open state.

[0032] In some embodiments, the mounting cavity includes a blind hole, and both the locking portion and the elastic portion are located within the blind hole, with the opening end of the blind hole forming an opening.

[0033] The mounting cavity includes a blind hole, and the locking part and the elastic part are all located inside the blind hole. The mounting cavity is simple to process, and the locking part and the elastic part are easy to install.

[0034] In some embodiments, the elastic part and the locking part are welded together, or the elastic part and the locking part are integrally formed.

[0035] Welding or integral molding, which achieves a fixed connection, gives the elastic part and the locking part good integrity and uniformity, making it easy to install or replace and less prone to damage during use.

[0036] In some embodiments, the elastic portion includes a spring or a coil spring; and / or the locking portion includes a locking pin.

[0037] Springs can be thin metal sheets (such as spring steel plates, stainless steel plates, etc.) with a certain bending shape, capable of elastic deformation under stress. Springs have a simple structure, low manufacturing cost, are easy to produce and install, and can be made thinner or lighter, contributing to lightweight design. Locking pins can be rod-shaped or pin-shaped, with a simple structure, low manufacturing cost, high reliability, and are easy to produce and install. Locking pins can be made of materials with good wear resistance or high strength to ensure stable structural characteristics even under long-term elastic force.

[0038] Secondly, this application provides a battery including the aforementioned explosion-proof valve, which is installed on the battery casing.

[0039] The battery of this application has the advantages of the explosion-proof valve of this application.

[0040] Thirdly, this application provides an electrical device including the aforementioned battery, which supplies electrical energy to the electrical device.

[0041] The electrical device of this application has the advantages of the battery of this application.

[0042] 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

[0043] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the drawings without creative effort.

[0044] Figure 1These are schematic diagrams of the electrical devices in some embodiments disclosed in this application.

[0045] Figure 2 These are exploded views of the battery in some embodiments disclosed in this application.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the explosion-proof valve in some embodiments disclosed in this application.

[0047] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The diagram shows the first angle of the explosion-proof valve.

[0048] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The schematic diagram shown is of the structure of the valve cover and connecting parts of the explosion-proof valve.

[0049] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the explosion-proof valve with the valve cover in the open position (AA section).

[0050] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the explosion-proof valve with the valve cover in the closed state (AA section).

[0051] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 The diagram shows the structural schematic of the limiting structure of the explosion-proof valve.

[0052] Figure 9 yes Figure 4 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of the explosion-proof valve excluding the limiting structure.

[0053] The accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The embodiments of the technical solution of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application and are therefore merely examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0055] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein 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 specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0056] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. Furthermore, the term "vertical" is not strictly vertical, but within the allowable range of error. Similarly, "parallel" is not strictly parallel, but within the allowable range of error.

[0057] In this document, the term "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 throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0058] In the description of the embodiments 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: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0059] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), unless otherwise expressly specified. Similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces), unless otherwise expressly specified.

[0060] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0061] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0062] Currently, judging from market trends, the application of power batteries is becoming increasingly widespread. Power batteries are not only used in energy storage systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power plants, but also extensively used 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 power battery applications, market demand is also constantly increasing.

[0063] Explosion-proof valves are an important safety device widely used in various high-pressure containers, especially in battery packs of electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and portable electronic devices. Explosion-proof valves open when the pressure inside a high-pressure container exceeds a preset safety value, allowing the container to release excessive pressure and preventing dangerous situations such as explosions due to excessive pressure.

[0064] In some related technologies, explosion-proof valves may not be able to maintain a stable open state during the opening process, especially when encountering continuous pressure fluctuations or when the internal pressure of the high-pressure container rises rapidly to a level far exceeding the normal operating range. If the explosion-proof valve closes before the battery pressure is fully released, it may cause the internal pressure of the high-pressure container to accumulate rapidly again, increasing the risk of damage to the high-pressure container or even an explosion.

[0065] In view of this, this application provides an explosion-proof valve 20, which can be used in a battery to relieve battery pressure. By improving the explosion-proof valve 20, this application can improve the safety and stability of the battery during the pressure relief process.

[0066] This application embodiment also provides a battery 100, which includes the explosion-proof valve 20 described above, and the explosion-proof valve 20 is installed on the casing 10 of the battery 100.

[0067] This application embodiment also provides an electrical device 1000, which includes the battery 100 described above, and the battery 100 is used to supply electrical energy to the electrical device 1000.

[0068] Electrical devices 1000 can include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, electric vehicles, electric cars, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and power tools. For example, spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft. Electric toys include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys. 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.

[0069] For simplicity, we will use an electrical device 1000 as an example to illustrate the concept. The vehicle can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles, etc.

[0070] Please refer to Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle 1000 provided in some embodiments of this application. The vehicle 1000 includes a battery 100, a controller 200, and a motor 300. The controller 200 controls the operation of the motor 300, for example, to meet the power requirements of the vehicle 1000 during startup, navigation, and driving. The battery 100 provides electrical energy for the operation of the motor 300 and other components in the vehicle 1000. For example, the battery 100 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000's electrical system, for example, to meet the power requirements of the vehicle 1000 during startup, navigation, and operation. The battery 100 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000, but also as the driving power source, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving force for the vehicle 1000. The battery 100 can be installed at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle 1000.

[0071] The battery 100 of some embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, features in the following embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0072] Please refer to Figure 2 This is an exploded view of a battery 100 provided in some embodiments of this application. The battery 100 includes a housing 10, an explosion-proof valve 20, and one or more individual battery cells 30, which are housed within the housing 10. The housing 10 has a pressure relief hole 11, which communicates with a battery cavity 12 within the housing 10. The explosion-proof valve 20 is installed at the pressure relief hole 11. The battery 100 can be an energy storage device. Energy storage devices include energy storage containers, energy storage cabinets, etc.

[0073] As an example, such as Figure 2As shown, the housing 10 includes a housing body 102 and a housing cover 101 covering the open side of the housing body 102. A pressure relief hole 11 is provided on the housing cover 101. When the housing cover 101 closes to the open side of the housing body 102, it forms an internal battery cavity 12. The battery cavity 12 provides space for the battery cells 30. The housing 10 provides cooling, sealing, and impact protection for the battery cells 30, and also prevents liquids or other foreign objects from adversely affecting the charging, discharging, or safety of the battery cells 30.

[0074] The battery cell 30 can be a rechargeable battery. A rechargeable battery is a battery cell that can be recharged to activate the active materials and continue to be used after it has been discharged.

[0075] The battery cell 30 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 the embodiments of this application are not limited to this.

[0076] Here, the battery cell 30 can be applied to various types of batteries. The battery mentioned here refers to a single physical module comprising one or more battery cells 30 to provide higher voltage and capacity.

[0077] The box body 102 and the box lid 101 can be in various shapes, such as cuboids or cylinders. The box body 102 can be a hollow structure with one side open, and the box lid 101 can be a plate-like structure.

[0078] In a specific example, the box body 102 is a hollow structure with one side open, and the box cover 101 is also a hollow structure with one side open. When the open side of the box cover 101 closes to the open side of the box body 102, it forms the internal battery cavity 12.

[0079] Figure 2 The individual battery cells 30 are electrically connected, such as in series, parallel, or mixed connection, to achieve the required electrical performance parameters of the battery 100. Mixed connection refers to multiple battery cells 30 being connected in both series and parallel. Adjacent battery cells 30 can be electrically connected through busbars. Multiple battery cells 30 are arranged in rows, and one or more rows of battery cells 30 can be arranged inside the housing body 102 as needed.

[0080] In some embodiments, the individual battery cells 30 of the battery 100 can be arranged along at least one of the length and width directions of the housing body 102. At least one row or column of battery cells 30 can be provided as needed. Alternatively, one or more layers of battery cells 30 can be provided along the height direction of the battery 100 as required.

[0081] In some embodiments, multiple battery cells 30 may first be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner to form a battery module, and then the multiple battery modules may be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner to form a whole, which is housed in the housing 10. In other embodiments, all battery cells 30 are directly connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner, and then the whole composed of all battery cells 30 is housed in the housing 10.

[0082] In some embodiments, the battery cell 30 includes an electrode assembly capable of undergoing an electrochemical reaction.

[0083] The electrode assembly may include a first electrode and a second electrode with opposite polarities, and a separator disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. In some embodiments, the first electrode is a positive electrode and the second electrode is a negative electrode. In other embodiments, the first electrode is a negative electrode and the second electrode is a positive electrode. During the charging and discharging of a single battery cell, active ions (e.g., lithium ions) repeatedly insert and extract between the positive and negative electrode. The separator, disposed between the positive and negative electrode, serves to prevent short circuits between the positive and negative electrodes while allowing active ions to pass through.

[0084] The following is combined with Figures 3 to 9 Some embodiments of the explosion-proof valve 20 in the battery 100 described above will be explained.

[0085] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the explosion-proof valve 20 includes a valve body 21, a valve core assembly, and a limiting structure 24. The valve body 21 is installed at the pressure relief hole 11 of the housing 10. The valve body 21 has a first through hole 211 penetrating through the valve body 21. The valve core assembly is disposed on the valve body 21. The valve core assembly includes a valve cover 22 and a connector 23. The valve cover 22 is located in a first position covering the first through hole 211. The valve cover 22 is configured to be able to move away from the first position under the action of an external force and be in an open state that opens the first through hole 211. The connector 23 connects the valve body 21 and the valve cover 22. The connector 23 is configured to be in a first state when the valve cover 22 is in the first position, and to be displaced, rotated, or deformed under the action of the valve cover 22 as the valve cover 22 moves away from the first position. The limiting structure 24 is configured to prevent the connector 23 from returning to the first state after the valve cover 22 moves away from the first position.

[0086] In the first state of the connector 23, it connects the valve body 21 and the valve cover 22, and the valve cover 22 is in a closed state that closes the first through hole 211. The space enclosed between the valve body 21 and the valve cover 22 of the explosion-proof valve 20 is in communication with the battery cavity 12 of the battery 100.

[0087] With this configuration, when the connector 23 is in the first state, the explosion-proof valve 20 is closed, and the battery 100 operates normally. When the pressure in the battery cavity 12 of the battery 100 changes abruptly, such as when the pressure suddenly increases, the valve cover 22 moves away from the first position under the action of pressure, and at the same time drives the connector 23 to move, thereby opening the first through hole 211, that is, opening the explosion-proof valve 20.

[0088] In this case, the battery cavity 12 can release pressure through the first through hole 211, and the limiting structure 24 can prevent the connector 23 from returning to the first state, thereby keeping the first through hole 211 open and ensuring the safety of the battery 100.

[0089] The limiting structure effectively prevents the valve cover 22 from returning to its first position after opening, ensuring that the valve cover 22 will not close again due to the disappearance or reduction of external force, such as a brief drop in pressure in the battery chamber 12. Especially when there are large pressure fluctuations or continuous pressure peaks inside the battery chamber 12, keeping the valve cover 22 in the open position helps avoid the risk of battery 100 being damaged or even exploded due to a rapid increase in pressure in the battery chamber 12.

[0090] refer to Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the valve body 21 is further provided with a second through hole 212, the connector 23 passes through the second through hole 212, and the limiting structure is provided between the second through hole 212 and the connector 23.

[0091] The second through hole 212 can support or guide the connector 23, so that the connector 23 remains stable during movement, such as during displacement, rotation or deformation, reducing the risk of it flying out or even being damaged.

[0092] When thermal runaway or other events occur in the electrode assembly of the battery cell 30, the generated high-temperature, high-pressure gas will enter the battery chamber 12, and the gas may also contain active materials. When the pressure inside the battery chamber 12 exceeds a preset pressure, the explosion-proof valve 20 is activated, causing the valve cover 22 to switch to the open state, releasing the pressure inside the battery chamber 12, that is, discharging the emissions from the battery cell 30. The emissions from the battery cell 30 mentioned here include, but are not limited to: electrolyte, dissolved or broken positive and negative electrode plates, fragments of the separator, high-temperature, high-pressure gases generated by the reaction (such as CH4, CO, and other flammable gases), flames, etc.

[0093] The threshold design of the preset pressure used to control the opening and closing state of the valve cover 22 of the explosion-proof valve 20 varies depending on the design requirements.

[0094] By designing the limiting structure, different preset pressures for controlling the opening and closing of the explosion-proof valve 20 can be obtained, especially the preset pressure for controlling the opening and closing state of the valve cover 22.

[0095] In some embodiments, the limiting structure 24 includes a limiting protrusion 24A, which is disposed on the wall of the second through hole 212, or the limiting protrusion 24A is disposed on the wall surface of the connector 23 that passes through the second through hole 212.

[0096] The limiting protrusion 24A can limit the relevant structure by locking it. By flexibly designing the position of the limiting protrusion 24A, different working conditions can be met.

[0097] As an example, a limiting protrusion 24A is disposed on the wall of the second through hole 212. When the valve cover 22 is in the open state away from the first position, the limiting protrusion 24A extends into the wall of the connector 23 through the second through hole 212, thereby locking the connector 23. Here, the opening and closing state of the valve cover 22 can be controlled by controlling the relative positional relationship between the limiting protrusion 24A and the wall of the second through hole 212.

[0098] Or, refer to Figure 5 As shown, a limiting protrusion 24A is disposed on the wall surface of the connector 23 through the second through hole 212. When the valve cover 22 is in the open state away from the first position, the limiting protrusion 24A is located outside the second through hole 212. Here, the opening and closing state of the valve cover 22 can be controlled by controlling the relative position of the limiting protrusion 24A with respect to the second through hole 212, for example, by positioning it inside or outside the second through hole 212.

[0099] refer to Figure 6 As shown, in the open state of the valve cover 22, the limiting protrusion 24A extends through the opening 231A to the axial outer side of the second through hole 212 between the valve cover 22 and the valve cover 22 so that the valve cover 22 is kept in the open state.

[0100] In some embodiments, the connector 23 has a mounting cavity 231, which has an opening 231A disposed on the circumferential sidewall of the connector 23. The limiting structure 24 is at least partially disposed in the mounting cavity 231. When the valve cover 22 is in the open state away from the first position, the limiting protrusion 24A extends through the opening 231A to the axial outer side of the second through hole 212 and between the valve cover 22.

[0101] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 6As shown, when the valve cover 22 is in the open state, the limiting protrusion 24A of the limiting structure 24 extends through the opening 231A on the connector 23 and is locked between the second through hole 212 on the axial outer side and the valve cover 22. This effectively prevents the valve cover 22 from returning to the closed position, ensuring that the valve cover 22 will not close again due to a brief drop in pressure in the battery cavity 12 while in the open state. For example, in cases where the internal pressure of the battery cavity 12 fluctuates significantly or there are continuous pressure peaks, keeping the valve cover 22 in the open state helps to avoid the risk of damage to the battery 100 or even explosion caused by a rapid increase in pressure in the battery cavity 12.

[0102] refer to Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, when the valve cover 22 is in the first position, the limiting protrusion 24A extends through the opening 231A and abuts against the wall of the second through hole 212 through which the connector 23 passes.

[0103] The second through hole 212 limits the limiting protrusion 24A, ensuring that the limiting protrusion 24A does not affect the movement of the connecting member 23 during the process of the valve cover 22 switching from the closed state to the open state. At the same time, when the connecting member 23 moves to a position where its opening 231A is outside the second through hole 212, the limiting protrusion 24A immediately extends and gets stuck between the axial outer side of the second through hole 212 and the valve cover 22, thereby keeping the valve cover 22 in the open state.

[0104] The limiting structure 24 can be configured in various ways. For example, the limiting structure 24 may also include a triggering mechanism. The limiting protrusion 24A can be connected to the triggering mechanism, which can drive the limiting protrusion 24A to move, thereby allowing it to extend through the opening 231A.

[0105] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the valve body 21 includes a support portion 25, and a second through hole 212 is provided on the support portion 25. A connector 23 is connected to the side of the valve cover 22 facing the support portion 25. When the valve cover 22 is in the first position, the valve cover 22 abuts against the support portion 25.

[0106] As the valve cover 22 moves away from the first position, the second through hole 212 and the connector 23 cooperate to guide the movement direction of the valve cover 22, for example, causing the valve cover 22 to move along the axial direction of the connector 23, so as to realize the opening or closing of the valve cover 22.

[0107] As an example, connector 23 can be a cylindrical guide rod.

[0108] refer to Figure 8As shown, in some embodiments, the limiting structure 24 includes an elastic portion 241 and a locking portion 242. The first end of the locking portion 242 includes a limiting protrusion 24A, and the second end of the locking portion 242 is connected to the elastic portion 241. The elastic portion 241 is configured to apply a force toward the limiting protrusion 24A to the locking portion 242.

[0109] The elastic properties of the elastic part 241 enable the locking part 242 to respond quickly to the change of the opening 231A on the connector 23 when the valve cover 22 is opened. That is, when the internal pressure of the battery cavity 12 reaches the preset pressure, the valve cover 22 opens quickly. When the connector 23 moves to the position of the opening 231A outside the second through hole 212, the elastic part 241 pushes the locking part 242 under its own elasticity, so that the limiting protrusion 24A extends quickly.

[0110] Specifically, during the process of the valve cover 22 being opened by the force of the gas in the battery cavity 12, when the valve cover 22 drives the connecting piece 23 to move to the position of the opening 231A outside the second through hole 212, under the action of the elastic force of the elastic part 241, the locking part 242 moves, causing the limiting protrusion 24A to extend between the support part 25 and the valve cover 22. The elastic force of the elastic part 241 continues to act, thereby keeping the limiting protrusion 24A in the extended state and keeping the valve cover 22 in the open state.

[0111] refer to Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the mounting cavity 231 includes a receiving cavity 2311 and a through hole 2312. The receiving cavity 2311 is disposed in the radial center of the connector 23, and the elastic part 241 is disposed in the receiving cavity 2311. The through hole 2312 is disposed on the side wall of the connector 23 forming the receiving cavity 2311, and the locking part 242 is inserted into the through hole 2312.

[0112] The connector 23 serves as a guide, directing the movement of the valve cover 22, for example, causing the valve cover 22 to move along the axial direction of the connector 23 to open or close the valve cover 22. On the other hand, a receiving cavity 2311 is provided in the radial center of the connector 23, which can make full use of the internal space of the connector 23 for installing the limiting structure 24, making the structure of the entire explosion-proof valve 20 more compact.

[0113] The through hole 2312 is provided on the side wall of the connector 23 for mounting the locking part 242 and can also provide a guide for the locking part 242, so that the locking part 242 moves along the direction of the through hole 2312, thereby allowing the limiting protrusion 24A to extend accurately between the support part 25 and the valve cover 22.

[0114] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 8As shown, in some embodiments, the elastic part 241 has a U-shaped structure, and the second end of the locking part 242 is connected to one of the two free ends of the U-shaped structure. When the valve cover 22 is open, both free ends of the U-shaped structure abut against the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 2311.

[0115] The two free ends of the U-shaped structure abut against the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 2311, which provides dual-point support, so that the elastic part 241 can be stably embedded in the receiving cavity 2311, and the position of the locking part 242 is kept stable, which is conducive to maintaining the valve cover 22 in a stable open state.

[0116] Furthermore, the elastic force of the elastic part 241 can be changed by adjusting the size and material of the U-shaped structure, thereby adapting to different application requirements.

[0117] In some embodiments, the mounting cavity 231 includes a blind hole, and both the locking portion 242 and the elastic portion 241 are located within the blind hole, with the opening end of the blind hole forming an opening 231A.

[0118] The blind hole has a simple structure, the mounting cavity 231 is easy to process, and the locking part 242 and the elastic part 241 are easy to install.

[0119] In some embodiments, the elastic portion 241 and the locking portion 242 are welded together, or the elastic portion 241 and the locking portion 242 are integrally formed.

[0120] The method of achieving a fixed connection by welding or integral molding gives the elastic part 241 and the locking part 242 good integrity and uniformity, making it easy to install or replace and less prone to damage during use.

[0121] There are various options for the specific structural forms of the elastic part 241 and the locking part 242.

[0122] In some embodiments, the elastic portion 241 includes a spring or a coil spring, and / or the locking portion 242 includes a locking pin.

[0123] Springs can be thin metal sheets (such as spring steel sheets, stainless steel sheets, etc.) with a certain bending shape, capable of elastic deformation under stress. Springs have a simple structure, low manufacturing cost, are easy to produce and install, and can be made thinner or lighter, which is helpful for lightweight design.

[0124] If a helical spring is used, the spring force can be adjusted by changing parameters such as the spring diameter, number of coils, and material to meet different application requirements.

[0125] The locking pin can be rod-shaped or pin-shaped, with a simple structure, low manufacturing cost, high reliability, and easy production and installation. The locking pin can be made of a material with good wear resistance or high strength to ensure that it can maintain stable structural characteristics under the long-term action of the elastic force of the elastic part 241.

[0126] refer to Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the end of the connector 23 near the valve cover 22 is provided with a mounting hole 232, and the side of the valve cover 22 facing the connector 23 is provided with a mounting part 221. The mounting part 221 is embedded in the mounting hole 232 to connect the valve cover 22 with the connector 23. The mounting hole 232 communicates with the mounting cavity 231.

[0127] The mounting hole 232 is used to install the valve cover 22, and the mounting cavity 231 is used to install the limiting structure 24. This design makes full use of the internal space of the connector 23, giving the connector 23 a compact overall structure. Furthermore, the connection between the mounting hole 232 and the mounting cavity 231 effectively simplifies the design and manufacturing process of the connector 23; for example, the mounting hole 232 and the mounting cavity 231 can be formed simultaneously in one machining process.

[0128] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the support portion 25 is provided with a plurality of vent holes 251. The valve cover 22 is provided with at least one blocking portion 222 on the side facing the support portion 25, and the at least one blocking portion 222 is correspondingly inserted into at least one of the plurality of vent holes 251 to prevent gas from being discharged through the corresponding vent hole 251.

[0129] The vent 251 connects the space between the battery cavity 12 and the valve body 21 and the valve cover 22, so that when the pressure inside the battery cavity 12 is too high due to thermal runaway of the electrode assembly, the high temperature and high pressure gas generated inside the battery cell 30 can be discharged through the vent 251 to the space between the valve body 21 and the valve cover 22, and then discharged to the outside through the outlet of the first through hole 211.

[0130] Here, the vent 251 can be considered as part of the first through hole 211 that penetrates the valve body 21.

[0131] When the first through-hole 211 is vented, the high-temperature and high-pressure gas discharged may impact components outside the battery 100.

[0132] In some specific examples, components such as a battery management system, fuses, connectors, and insulating materials are arranged around the battery 100. If, during the depressurization process of the explosion-proof valve 20, the high-temperature and high-pressure gas in the battery cavity 12 passes through the exhaust port 251 and is further ejected outward through the first through hole 211, it may impact the temperature of the components arranged around the battery 100, thereby affecting their normal operation. Therefore, the ejected airflow at the location where the relevant components are installed can be blocked. That is, in this embodiment, a blocking part 222 is provided to block the exhaust port 251 at the corresponding location, thereby preventing the high-temperature and high-pressure gas from impacting the relevant components.

[0133] In some embodiments, the explosion-proof valve 20 further includes an elastic member 26 sleeved on the outer periphery of the connector 23. The end of the connector 23 away from the valve cover 22 is provided with a boss 233 extending radially outward therefrom. The two ends of the elastic member 26 abut against the support portion 25 and the boss 233, respectively.

[0134] The elastic element 26 can provide a fastening force, so that the valve cover 22 is pressed against the valve body 21. Specifically, the elastic element 26 directly applies force to the support portion 25 of the valve body 21. When the elastic element 26 is compressed, it generates a spring force along the axial direction of the connector 23. The spring force pushes the support portion 25 away from the boss 233 of the connector 23, that is, pushes the valve body 21 away from the boss 233, thereby bringing the valve body 21 closer to the valve cover 22, thus achieving the pressing of the valve cover 22 and the valve body 21.

[0135] The elastic element 26 can be in various forms such as a spring, elastic rubber ring, or air bladder, as long as it can provide bidirectional force and achieve the function of fastening.

[0136] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in a specific example, the elastic element 26 is a spring. In the initial position of the valve cover 22, the spring is in a certain degree of compression, providing an initial elastic force that causes the valve body 21 to press against the valve cover 22. When the pressure of the gas in the battery chamber 12 rises to a level greater than the preset pressure, the gas in the battery chamber 12 overcomes at least the initial elastic force of the spring, lifting the valve cover 22 and causing the connecting member 23 to move upward as a whole. The valve body 21 is then fastened to the housing 10, and the spring is further compressed.

[0137] In some embodiments, a sealing ring is provided between the valve cover 22 and the valve body 21 to seal the gap between the valve cover 22 and the valve body 21 when the valve cover 22 is closed.

[0138] In some embodiments, a sealing ring is provided between the valve body 21 and the housing 10 to seal the gap between the valve body 21 of the explosion-proof valve 20 and the housing 10 of the battery 100.

[0139] Next, refer to Figures 3-9 The explosion-proof valve 20 provided in a specific embodiment of this application will be further described.

[0140] The explosion-proof valve 20 includes a valve body 21, a valve cover 22, a connector 23, a limiting structure 24, and an elastic element 26. The valve body 21 is installed at the pressure relief hole 11 of the housing 10. The valve body 21 has a through hole 211, through which the space enclosed between the valve cover 22 and the valve body 21 communicates with the battery cavity 12 of the battery 100. The valve body 21 includes a support portion 25, and the support portion 25 has a second through hole 212.

[0141] The connector 23 is connected to the side of the valve cover 22 facing the support 25, and the connector 23 passes through the second through hole 212. When the explosion-proof valve 20 is closed, the valve cover 22 is in the first position covering the first through hole 211, and the valve cover 22 is in the closed state.

[0142] The end of the connector 23 away from the valve cover 22 is provided with a boss 233 extending radially outward. The elastic element 26 is a spring, with its two ends abutting against the support part 25 and the boss 233 respectively, and the spring is in a preset compressed state so that the valve cover 22 can press the valve body 21.

[0143] The support portion 25 is also provided with three vent holes 251, which connect the battery cavity 12 with the space between the valve cover 22 and the support portion 25, so that the gas in the battery cavity 12 can flow through the vent holes 251 to the space between the valve body 21 and the valve cover 22. Thus, when the valve cover 22 is in the open state away from the first position, the gas in the battery cavity 12 can be discharged to the outside through the outlet of the first through hole 211.

[0144] In this embodiment, a blocking part 222 is provided on the side of the valve cover 22 facing the support part 25. The blocking part 222 is inserted into one of the exhaust holes 251 to prevent gas from being discharged through the location of the exhaust hole 251.

[0145] The limiting structure 24 includes an elastic part 241 and a locking part 242. The elastic part 241 is a U-shaped spring sheet. The first end of the locking part 242 includes a limiting protrusion 24A. The second end of the locking part 242 is connected to one of the two free ends of the U-shaped spring sheet. The U-shaped spring sheet is configured to apply a force toward the limiting protrusion 24A to the locking part 242.

[0146] The connector 23 has a mounting cavity 231, which has an opening 231A on its circumferential sidewall. Specifically, the mounting cavity 231 includes a receiving cavity 2311 and a through hole 2312. The receiving cavity 2311 is located in the radial center of the connector 23, and a U-shaped spring is disposed within it. The through hole 2312 is located on the sidewall of the connector 23 forming the receiving cavity 241. A locking portion 242 is inserted into the through hole 2312, and an opening 231A is formed at one end of the through hole 2312. (Reference) Figure 9 As shown, the end of the connector 23 near the valve cover 22 is also provided with a mounting hole 232, and the side of the valve cover 22 facing the connector 23 is provided with a mounting part 221. The mounting part 221 is embedded in the mounting hole 232 so that the valve cover 22 is connected to the connector 23. The mounting hole 232 communicates with the mounting cavity 231.

[0147] When the valve cover 22 is closed, the limiting protrusion 24A of the limiting structure 24 abuts against the inner wall of the second through hole 212.

[0148] When the pressure in the battery chamber 12 is greater than or equal to the preset pressure, the valve cover 22 moves away from the valve body 21 under the pressure of the battery chamber 12 and separates from the first through hole 211, while simultaneously driving the connecting member 23 to move synchronously. When the connecting member 23 moves to a position where the limiting protrusion 24A of the limiting structure 24 is not blocked by the inner wall of the second through hole 212 of the support part 25, the U-shaped spring opens until both of its free ends abut against the cavity wall of the receiving cavity 2311. At the same time, the limiting protrusion 24A of the locking part 242 is pushed by the U-shaped spring to extend through the opening 231A to the space 22 between the support part 25 and the valve cover, so that the valve cover 22 switches to the open state, thereby venting the gas in the battery chamber 12. Due to the elastic force of the U-shaped spring, the limiting protrusion 24A remains locked between the support part 25 and the valve cover 22 after extending, so that the valve cover 22 is stably maintained in the open state away from the first position.

[0149] The description of the various embodiments above tends to emphasize the differences between the various embodiments. The similarities or similarities between them can be referred to, and for the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0150] 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. An explosion relief valve (20) characterized by, The valve (20) comprises: a valve body (21) provided with a first through hole (211) passing through the valve body (21); a valve core assembly arranged on the valve body (21), the valve core assembly comprising a valve cover (22) and a connecting piece (23), the valve cover (22) being located at a first position covering the first through hole (211), the valve cover (22) being configured to be capable of moving away from the first position under the action of an external force and being in an open state of opening the first through hole (211), the connecting piece (23) connecting the valve body (21) and the valve cover (22), the connecting piece (23) being configured to be in a first state when the valve cover (22) is located at the first position, and being displaced, rotated or deformed under the driving of the valve cover (22) during the movement of the valve cover (22) away from the first position; and a limiting structure (24) configured to prevent the connecting piece (23) from returning to the first state after the valve cover (22) moves away from the first position. The valve body (21) is further provided with a second through hole (212), the connecting piece (23) passes through the second through hole (212), and the limiting structure (24) is arranged between the second through hole (212) and the connecting piece (23).

2. The explosion relief valve (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that The limiting structure (24) comprises a limiting protrusion (24A) arranged on the hole wall of the second through hole (212) or arranged on the wall surface of the connecting piece (23) passing through the second through hole (212).

3. The explosion relief valve (20) according to claim 2, characterized in that When the valve cover (22) moves away from the first position and is in the open state, the limiting protrusion (24A) arranged on the hole wall of the second through hole (212) extends into the wall surface of the connecting piece (23) passing through the second through hole (212).

4. The explosion relief valve (20) according to claim 3, characterized in that When the valve cover (22) moves away from the first position and is in the open state, the limiting protrusion (24A) arranged on the wall surface of the connecting piece (23) passing through the second through hole (212) is located outside the second through hole (212).

5. The explosion relief valve (20) of claim 3, wherein, 6. The explosion-proof valve (20) according to claim 5, wherein: the connecting piece (23) is provided with a mounting cavity (231) having an opening (231A) arranged on the circumferential side wall of the connecting piece (23); the limiting structure (24) is at least partially arranged in the mounting cavity (231), and when the valve cover (22) moves away from the first position and is in the open state, the limiting protrusion (24A) extends to the axial outside of the second through hole (212) through the opening (231A) and abuts against the valve cover (22). When the valve cover (22) is located at the first position, the limiting protrusion (24A) extends through the opening (231A) and abuts against the wall surface of the second through hole (212) passed through by the connecting piece (23).

7. The explosion relief valve (20) according to claim 6, characterized in that The limiting structure (24) comprises:

8. The explosion relief valve (20) of claim 6, characterized in that a resilient portion (241); and ​ The locking portion (242) includes a first end comprising the limiting protrusion (24A) and a second end connected with the elastic portion (241), and the elastic portion (241) is configured to apply a force to the locking portion (242) towards the limiting protrusion (24A).

9. The explosion relief valve (20) according to claim 8, characterized in that The mounting cavity (231) includes: a receiving cavity (2311) arranged at a radial middle portion of the connecting piece (23), and the elastic portion (241) is arranged in the receiving cavity (2311); and a through hole (2312) arranged on a side wall of the connecting piece (23) forming the receiving cavity (2311), and the locking portion (242) is inserted in the through hole (2312).

10. The explosion relief valve (20) according to claim 9, characterized in that The elastic portion (241) has a U-shaped structure, the second end of the locking portion (242) is connected with one of the two free ends of the U-shaped structure, and in the open state of the valve cover (22), the two free ends of the U-shaped structure abut against the cavity wall of the receiving cavity (2311).

11. The explosion relief valve (20) of claim 8, characterized in that The mounting cavity (231) includes a blind hole, and the locking portion (242) and the elastic portion (241) are located in the blind hole, and an opening end of the blind hole forms the opening (231A).

12. Explosion valve (20) according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that The elastic portion (241) and the locking portion (242) are welded or integrally formed.

13. The explosion-proof valve (20) according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that: The elastic portion (241) includes a spring or a coil spring; and / or The locking portion (242) includes a locking pin.

14. A battery (100) comprising the explosion-proof valve (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, and the explosion-proof valve (20) is mounted on a box (10) of the battery (100).

15. An electric device (1000) comprising the battery (100) according to claim 14, and the battery (100) is configured to supply electric energy to the electric device (1000).

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