Box body and battery pack

Abstract

The utility model provides a box body and a battery pack, and relates to the technical field of batteries, the box body comprises a box body main body, a first end cover and a second end cover, the box body main body comprises a first side plate, a second side plate arranged opposite to the first side plate, a first plate body connected between the first side plate and the second side plate, and a second plate body arranged opposite to the first plate body, a containing cavity is defined by the first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate body and the second plate body, the containing cavity is provided with a first opening and a second opening which are oppositely arranged in the first direction, and first heat exchange channels allowing heat exchange media to flow are formed in the first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate body and the second plate body in the first direction; the first end cover covers the first opening, a second heat exchange channel allowing the heat exchange medium to flow is formed in the first end cover, and the second heat exchange channel communicates with the first heat exchange channel. Heat exchange can be carried out on multiple faces, the heat exchange efficiency is improved, the utilization rate of the box body is improved, and the manufacturing process is simple.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a housing and battery pack. Background Technology

[0002] With the transformation of the global energy structure and the development of a low-carbon economy, the new energy sector has gradually become a focus of attention. Batteries, as a core component for energy storage and conversion, have been widely used in fields such as electric vehicles.

[0003] However, batteries generate a lot of heat during use. If the heat cannot be dissipated in a timely and effective manner, it will affect the performance and lifespan of the battery. Therefore, providing a heat exchange system that can quickly remove the heat generated by the battery or make the battery heat up quickly to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the battery pack is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved in the battery field. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a housing and a battery pack to solve the technical problem of poor heat exchange efficiency in existing battery packs.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows:

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a housing, comprising: a housing body, a first end cap, and a second end cap. The housing body includes a first side plate, a second side plate disposed opposite to the first side plate, a first plate body connected between the first side plate and the second side plate, and a second plate body disposed opposite to the first plate body. The first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate body, and the second plate body enclose a receiving cavity. The receiving cavity has a first opening and a second opening disposed opposite to each other along a first direction. A first heat exchange channel for allowing the flow of heat exchange medium is provided inside the first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate body, and the second plate body, along the first direction, wherein the first direction is the length direction of the housing body. The first end cap is closed to the first opening, and a second heat exchange channel for allowing the flow of heat exchange medium is provided inside the first end cap. The second heat exchange channel is connected to the first heat exchange channel. The second end cap is closed to the second opening.

[0007] In one or more embodiments of this application, a first heat exchange channel extends through a first side plate, a second side plate, a first plate body, and a second plate body along a first direction, and a second end cap closes the side of the first heat exchange channel away from the second heat exchange channel.

[0008] The first end cap is provided with an inlet and an outlet that are arranged opposite to each other along a second direction. The inlet and outlet are respectively connected to the second heat exchange channel, wherein the second direction is the width direction of the box.

[0009] In one or more embodiments of this application, an exhaust channel extending along a first direction is provided on the side of the second plate near the receiving cavity. Both ends of the exhaust channel penetrate the second plate along the first direction and are isolated from the first heat exchange channel. A first end cap closes the side of the exhaust channel near the first opening.

[0010] The second end cap is provided with a pressure relief valve connected to the exhaust passage on the side away from the second opening along the first direction. The exhaust passage is provided with an exhaust hole on the side facing the receiving cavity along the third direction, wherein the third direction is the height direction of the box.

[0011] In one or more embodiments of this application, the second end cap is recessed in the side facing the exhaust channel along the first direction with a gas collecting groove. The gas collecting groove is connected to the exhaust channel. A through mounting hole is provided in the gas collecting groove. The pressure relief valve is installed into the mounting hole along the first direction and exposed on the second end cap.

[0012] In one or more embodiments of this application, the main body of the box further includes a support plate disposed on the side of the first plate facing the receiving cavity along a third direction. A cavity extending along a first direction is formed between the support plate and the first plate. The support plate is fitted with a plurality of rolling support devices spaced apart along the first direction at positions corresponding to the cavity. The rolling support devices protrude from the support plate and can rotate 360° within the cavity. The third direction is the height direction of the box.

[0013] In one or more embodiments of this application, the main body of the housing further includes a structural beam extending along a first direction. The structural beam protrudes along a third direction on the side of the support plate facing the receiving cavity and divides the receiving cavity into multiple sub-cavities for receiving battery modules. A weight reduction cavity is provided inside the structural beam.

[0014] In one or more embodiments of this application, a limiting plate is provided on the second end cap along the first direction toward each compartment to limit the battery module in the horizontal direction.

[0015] Secondly, this application also provides a battery pack, including: a housing and at least one set of battery modules; the at least one set of battery modules is disposed within the receiving cavity of the housing.

[0016] In one or more embodiments of this application, the battery module includes a cell assembly, a base plate, two end plates, and a fixing strap. The cell assembly includes a plurality of individual cells arranged sequentially along a first direction, with spacers between adjacent individual cells. The base plate is supported at the bottom of the cell assembly. The two end plates are respectively disposed at both ends of the cell assembly along the first direction, and a battery management system is integrated on one of the end caps. The fixing strap is sleeved on the outside of the two end plates and the cell assembly.

[0017] In one or more embodiments of this application, the exhaust port of the exhaust channel of the housing corresponds to the explosion-proof valve of each individual cell in the cell group.

[0018] Based on the above technical solution, the housing and battery pack of this application have at least the following beneficial technical effects:

[0019] The housing of this application embodiment has a first heat exchange channel that allows the heat exchange medium to flow inside the first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate, and the second plate forming the housing, and a second heat exchange channel that allows the heat exchange medium to flow inside the first end cover of the housing. The first heat exchange channel and the second heat exchange channel are connected, so that heat exchange can be carried out through the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channels on the upper and lower sides, left and right sides, and the end sides of the housing. This allows heat exchange to be carried out on multiple surfaces, improving heat exchange efficiency. At the same time, it makes full use of the structure of the battery pack housing, so that the housing can not only accommodate the battery module, but also serve as a heat exchange channel. The heat exchange system is integrated with the housing, reducing the space occupied by the housing and improving the utilization rate of the housing. Moreover, the manufacturing process is simple.

[0020] On the other hand, in the embodiment of this application, an exhaust channel is also provided in the housing at the position of the explosion-proof valve corresponding to the battery module. The exhaust channel is integrated on the second plate of the housing and is adjacent to and spaced apart from the first heat exchange channel on the second plate. Therefore, in the event of thermal runaway, on the one hand, the high-temperature airflow can enter the exhaust channel and be discharged from the exhaust channel in a timely manner, and on the other hand, the heat exchange medium in the first heat exchange channel can be used to exchange heat and cool down the high-temperature airflow in the exhaust channel, so as to avoid the temperature from being too high and affecting other cells.

[0021] On the other hand, the housing of this application embodiment is also provided with a plurality of rolling support devices. The rolling support devices protrude from the support plate and can rotate 360° in the cavity, thereby forming a slide, which facilitates the quick installation and disassembly of the battery module. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art 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 these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the box provided in this application.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the connection method of the first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate body, and the second plate body in the box body provided in this application.

[0025] Figure 3This is a side view structural diagram of the connection method of the first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate body, and the second plate body in the box body provided in this application.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second end cap provided in this application.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of the first end cap provided in this application from one perspective.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a structural schematic diagram of the first end cap provided in this application from another perspective.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the first end cap provided in this application.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a structural schematic diagram from another perspective of the connection method of the first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate body, and the second plate body in the box body provided in this application.

[0031] Figure 9 This is an exploded structural diagram of part of the battery pack provided in this application.

[0032] Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the battery module in the battery pack provided in this application.

[0033] Figure 11 This is an exploded structural diagram of the battery module in the battery pack provided in this application.

[0034] In the diagram: 10-Box body; 11-Box body; 12-Second end cover; 13-First end cover; 20-Battery module; 30-Pressure relief valve; 111-First side plate; 112-Second side plate; 113-First plate; 114-Second plate; 115-First heat exchange channel; 116-Support plate; 117-Exhaust channel; 118-Rolling support device; 119-Accommodation hole; 121-Gas collection groove; 122-Mounting hole; 123-Limiting plate; 130-Second heat exchange channel; 131-Groove; 132-Cover plate ; 133-block; 134-liquid inlet; 135-liquid outlet; 136-outer frame; 200-cell assembly; 201-single cell; 202-end plate; 203-battery management system; 204-base plate; 205-fixing strap; 206-spacer; 1101-accommodating cavity; 1102-second opening; 1103-first opening; 1104-rib; 1105-cavity; 1106-structural beam; 1107-sub-cavity; 1108-weight reduction cavity; 1171-vent; 2011-explosion-proof valve. Detailed Implementation

[0035] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0036] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on or indirectly on that other component. When a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to that other component.

[0037] It should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., 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 this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0038] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0039] In related technologies, batteries generate a significant amount of heat during use. If this heat cannot be dissipated effectively and promptly, it will negatively impact battery performance and lifespan. Therefore, a heat exchange system, such as a liquid cooling unit, is required. A liquid cooling unit is a cooling device that uses a liquid as the cooling medium. By injecting a coolant and utilizing its circulation, the heat generated by the battery is carried away, thus achieving heat dissipation. Under certain conditions, the heat exchange system can also be a temperature-raising unit to ensure a stable battery temperature. However, existing heat exchange systems typically occupy additional space within the battery casing and have limited heat exchange efficiency.

[0040] Based on the above considerations, in order to solve the technical problem of poor heat exchange efficiency of battery packs in the prior art, this application provides a housing, including a housing body, a first end cover and a second end cover. The housing body includes a first side plate, a second side plate disposed opposite to the first side plate, a first plate body connected between the first side plate and the second side plate, and a second plate body disposed opposite to the first plate body. The first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate body and the second plate body enclose a receiving cavity. The receiving cavity has a first opening and a second opening disposed opposite to each other along a first direction. A first heat exchange channel allowing the flow of heat exchange medium is provided inside the first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate body and the second plate body, along the first direction. The first end cover closes to the first opening, and a second heat exchange channel allowing the flow of heat exchange medium is provided inside the first end cover. The second heat exchange channel is connected to the first heat exchange channel. The second end cover closes to the second opening.

[0041] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, a first heat exchange channel that allows the flow of heat exchange medium is provided inside the first side plate, the second side plate, the first plate body, and the second plate body forming the housing, and a second heat exchange channel that allows the flow of heat exchange medium is provided inside the first end cover of the housing, and the first heat exchange channel and the second heat exchange channel are connected. Thus, heat exchange can be carried out through the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channels on the upper and lower sides, left and right sides, and the end sides of the housing, so that heat exchange can be carried out on multiple surfaces, improving heat exchange efficiency. At the same time, the structure of the battery pack housing is fully utilized, so that the housing can not only accommodate the battery module, but also serve as a heat exchange channel. The heat exchange system is integrated with the housing, reducing the space occupied by the housing and improving the utilization rate of the housing. Moreover, the manufacturing process is simple.

[0042] The technical solution of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0043] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2This application provides a housing, including a housing body 11, a first end cap 13, and a second end cap 12. The housing body 11 includes a first side plate 111, a second side plate 112 opposite to the first side plate 111, a first plate 113 connecting the first side plate 111 and the second side plate 112, and a second plate 114 opposite to the first plate 113. Therefore, the first side plate 111, the second side plate 112, the first plate 113, and the second plate 114 constitute the four walls of the housing body 11. For ease of manufacturing, the housing body 11 can be a one-piece structure. The first side plate 111, the second side plate 112, the first plate 113, and the second plate 114 form a receiving cavity 1101, which is used to accommodate a battery module 20. The receiving cavity 1101 has a first opening 1103 and a second opening 1102 arranged opposite to each other along the first direction X. The first direction X can be the length direction of the housing 10. The first opening 1103 and the second opening 1102 are used to facilitate the placement of the battery module 20 into the receiving cavity 1101.

[0044] Please refer to Figure 2 First heat exchange channels 115, allowing the flow of heat exchange medium, are provided inside the first side plate 111, the second side plate 112, the first plate body 113, and the second plate body 114, along the first direction X. It is understood that multiple first heat exchange channels 115 can be provided, for example, referring to... Figure 2 Multiple first heat exchange channels 115 are arranged at intervals along the third direction Z (i.e., the height direction of the housing 10) inside the first side plate 111 and the second side plate 112. Alternatively, in other embodiments, multiple rows of first heat exchange channels 115 can be provided on the first side plate 111 and the second side plate 112, with multiple channels arranged at intervals along the third direction Z in each row. Similarly, multiple first heat exchange channels 115 are arranged at intervals along the second direction Y (i.e., the width direction of the housing 10) inside the first plate 113 and the second plate 114. In other embodiments, multiple rows of first heat exchange channels 115 can be provided inside the first plate 113 and the second plate 114, with multiple channels arranged at intervals along the second direction Y in each row. The first heat exchange channels 115 are separated from the receiving cavity 1101 by only one channel wall, thus enabling rapid heat exchange on multiple surfaces of the battery module 20 within the receiving cavity 1101, improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0045] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 6The first end cap 13 closes to the first opening 1103. The interior of the first end cap 13 is provided with a second heat exchange channel 130 that allows the flow of heat exchange medium. The second heat exchange channel 130 is connected to the first heat exchange channel 115, facilitating the circulation of the heat exchange medium between the first heat exchange channel 115 and the second heat exchange channel 130. The battery module 20 can exchange heat with the heat exchange medium within the first heat exchange channel 115 of the first side plate 111, the second side plate 112, the first plate 113, and the second plate 114, as well as within the second heat exchange channel 130 inside the first end cap 13.

[0046] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 9 The second end cap 12 closes to the second opening 1102. For further details, please refer to... Figure 9 The first heat exchange channel 115 extends along the first direction X through the first side plate 111, the second side plate 112, the first plate 113, and the second plate 114. The second end cap 12 closes the side of the first heat exchange channel 115 away from the second heat exchange channel 130. It can be understood that the first heat exchange channel 115 extends along the length of the housing body 11. The second end cap 12 closes the side of the first heat exchange channel 115 away from the second heat exchange channel 130, so that the second end cap 12 can close the second opening 1102 and the end of the first heat exchange channel 115 away from the first opening 1103. Thus, the heat exchange medium can flow from the first heat exchange channel 115 to the second end cap 12 and then return to the second heat exchange channel 130, thereby equalizing the temperature of the battery module 20 along the first direction X, i.e., the length direction. This allows the heat exchange medium to circulate within the first heat exchange channel 115 around the perimeter and the second heat exchange channel 130 at the end, thereby exchanging heat on multiple surfaces of the battery module 20 and improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0047] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, a first heat exchange channel 115 that allows the flow of heat exchange medium is provided inside the first side plate 111, the second side plate 112, the first plate 113, and the second plate 114 forming the housing 10, and a second heat exchange channel 130 that allows the flow of heat exchange medium is provided inside the first end cover 13 of the housing, and the first heat exchange channel 115 and the second heat exchange channel 130 are connected, so that heat exchange can be carried out through the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channels on the upper and lower sides, left and right sides and the end sides of the housing 10, so that heat exchange can be carried out on multiple surfaces, improving heat exchange efficiency. At the same time, the structure of the battery pack housing is fully utilized, so that the housing can not only accommodate the battery module 20, but also serve as a heat exchange channel, integrating the heat exchange system with the housing, reducing the space occupied by the housing, improving the utilization rate of the housing, and simplifying the manufacturing process.

[0048] For further details, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first end cap 13 includes an outer frame 136. The side of the outer frame 136 facing the main body 11 of the housing has a groove 131. A block 133 is provided in the groove 131. The block 133 is used to divide the second heat exchange channel 130 with the groove wall of the groove 131 or between multiple blocks 133. Specifically, in this embodiment, four blocks 133 are provided in the groove 131 in a vertical and horizontally symmetrical manner. The blocks 133 protrude from the bottom of the groove 131 and are not connected to or in contact with the groove wall of the groove 131. That is, there is a gap between the block 133 and the groove wall of the groove 131. The second heat exchange channel 130 can be formed in the gap between the block 133 and the groove wall of the groove 131 or in the gap between two adjacent blocks 133. To ensure that the second heat exchange channel 130 is connected only to the first heat exchange channel 115, a cover plate 132 is provided on the outer side of all blocks 133 facing away from the bottom of the groove. The cover plate 132 covers all blocks 133, and each of the four edges of the cover plate 132 has a gap with the groove wall of the groove 131. This gap corresponds to and connects with the first heat exchange channel 115, preventing the heat exchange medium from leaking into the battery module 20. In some embodiments, the second heat exchange channel 130 inside the first end cover 13 can be formed by brazing, so that the second heat exchange channel 130 is connected to the first heat exchange channel 115 in the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the housing body 11.

[0049] For further details, please refer to Figure 7 The first end cap 13 is provided with an inlet 134 and an outlet 135 arranged opposite to each other along the second direction Y. It can be understood that the inlet 134 and the outlet 135 are flush with each other in the second direction Y. In some embodiments, the inlet 134 and the outlet 135 are located near the bottom of the first end cap 13 so that the heat exchange medium enters the second heat exchange channel 130 from the bottom inlet 134, exchanges heat through the first heat exchange channel 115 and the second heat exchange channel 130, and then exits from the bottom outlet 135, so as to make full use of the gravity of the heat exchange medium to discharge and reduce energy consumption.

[0050] The inlet 134 and outlet 135 are respectively connected to the second heat exchange channel 130. The inlet 134 is used to connect to the main inlet pipe, allowing the heat exchange medium to enter the second heat exchange channel 130 from the inlet 134, and then enter the first heat exchange channel 115. The outlet 135 is used to connect to the main outlet pipe, allowing the heat exchange medium to circulate in the first heat exchange channel 115 and then be discharged through the second heat exchange channel 130. The inlet 134 and outlet 135 extend through the side of the first end cover 13 away from the battery module 20, so that the connectors connecting to the inlet 134 and outlet 135 can be located on the side of the first end cover 13 away from the battery module 20, avoiding the problem that interface failure could easily cause the heat exchange medium to leak into the housing 10, causing system insulation failure.

[0051] For further details, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 An exhaust channel 117 extending along the first direction X is provided on the side of the second plate 114 near the receiving cavity 1101. The exhaust channel 117 is a structure for timely discharge of high-temperature gas in the event of thermal runaway. The exhaust channel 117 is integrated into the second plate 114. Both ends of the exhaust channel 117 penetrate the second plate 114 along the first direction X and are isolated from the first heat exchange channel 115. The isolation between the exhaust channel 117 and the first heat exchange channel 115 can be understood as the exhaust channel 117 and the first heat exchange channel 115 sharing a partition. The first end cap 13 closes the exhaust channel 117 near the first opening 1103, while the second end cap 12, along the first direction X away from the second opening 1102, has a pressure relief valve 30 connected to the exhaust channel 117. Thus, in the event of thermal runaway, high-temperature gas can enter the exhaust channel 117. Since the first end cap 13 closes one end of the exhaust channel 117, the high-temperature gas will move along the exhaust channel 117 towards the second end cap 12 and then be discharged through the pressure relief valve 30 of the second end cap 12, thereby promptly reducing the pressure of the high-temperature, high-pressure gas. Simultaneously, since the exhaust channel 117 is isolated from the first heat exchange channel 115 within the second plate 114 and shares a partition wall, the heat exchange medium within the first heat exchange channel 115 can be used to exchange heat and cool the high-temperature gas flow within the exhaust channel 117, preventing excessively high temperatures from affecting other battery cells.

[0052] For further details, please refer to Figure 8 The exhaust channel 117 has an exhaust hole 1171 on the side facing the receiving cavity 1101 in the third direction Z. The exhaust hole 1171 can penetrate the hole in the channel wall of the exhaust channel 117 so that when a cell in the battery module 20 experiences thermal runaway, the high-temperature gas discharged can enter the exhaust channel 117 more quickly through the exhaust hole 1171.

[0053] For further details, please refer to Figure 4 Since multiple battery modules 20 can be installed inside the housing 10, each battery module 20 is provided with an exhaust channel 117. To ensure timely discharge of gas from the exhaust channel 117 via the pressure relief valve 30, a gas collecting groove 121 is recessed on the side of the second end cover 12 facing the exhaust channel 117 along the first direction X. The gas collecting groove 121 is connected to the exhaust channel 117 and is used to collect the high-temperature gas flow discharged from the exhaust channel 117. After being buffered within the gas collecting groove 121, the gas flows out through the pressure relief valve 30. A through mounting hole 122 is provided in the gas collecting groove 121. The pressure relief valve 30 is installed into the mounting hole 122 along the first direction X and exposed outside the second end cover 12. This allows the high-temperature gas in the gas collecting groove 121 to be discharged through the pressure relief valve 30 in the mounting hole 122, thus promptly reducing the internal air pressure of the housing 10.

[0054] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the main body 11 of the housing also includes a support plate 116 disposed on the side of the first plate 113 facing the receiving cavity 1101 along the third direction Z. It is understood that the support plate 116 is disposed at the bottom of the main body 11 and above the first plate 113, and the support plate 116 is used to support the battery module 20. A cavity 1105 extending along the first direction X is formed between the support plate 116 and the first plate 113. The cavity 1105 is provided to accommodate the rolling support devices 118. Multiple rolling support devices 118 are embedded in the support plate 116 at positions corresponding to the cavity 1105, spaced apart along the first direction X. The rolling support devices 118 protrude from the support plate 116 and can rotate 360° within the cavity 1105. In some embodiments, for better heat transfer and heat exchange, and also for better support at the bottom of the battery module 20, the height of the cavity 1105 is smaller than the height of the rolling support device 118, for example, the diameter of the ball bearing. This allows the bottom of the rolling support device 118 to contact the bottom of the cavity and the channel wall of the first heat exchange channel 115, while its top contacts the battery module 20, thus improving heat conduction and heat exchange. In this way, by forming multiple rotatable rolling support devices 118 on the support plate 116, the rolling support devices 118 can form a slide for the battery module 20, facilitating the quick installation and removal of the battery module 20.

[0055] In some embodiments, the rolling support device 118 may be a ball bearing. A receiving hole 119 is provided on the support plate 116 corresponding to each ball bearing. The ball bearing is embedded in the receiving hole 119 such that part of it is within the cavity 1105 and part of it protrudes from the support plate 116 and is supported on the bottom of the battery module 20.

[0056] To improve the support strength of the support plate 116, multiple vertical ribs 1104 are arranged within the cavity 1105. At least one row of rolling support devices 118 can be arranged between two adjacent ribs 1104 or between a rib 1104 and the edge sidewall of the housing body 11. Each row of rolling support devices 118 refers to multiple rolling support devices 118 spaced apart on the same first direction X. In this way, multiple rows of rolling support devices 118 can be formed on the support plate 116. This allows multiple slides to be formed at the bottom of the battery module 20, facilitating the quick installation and removal of the battery module.

[0057] For further details, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3When the housing needs to accommodate two or more sets of battery modules 20 side by side, the main body 11 of the housing also includes a structural beam 1106 extending along the first direction X. The structural beam 1106 protrudes along the third direction Z on the side of the support plate 116 facing the receiving cavity 1101 and divides the receiving cavity 1101 into multiple sub-cavities 1107 for accommodating battery modules. The first side plate 111, the second side plate 112, the first plate 113, the second plate 114, the support plate 116, and the structural beam 1106 can all be integrally formed. The height of the structural beam 1106 can be less than the height of the receiving cavity 1101 in the main body 11 of the housing so that the sub-cavities 1107 can be connected above the structural beam 1106. Of course, in other embodiments, the height of the structural beam 1106 can also be equal to the height of the receiving cavity 1101 so that adjacent sub-cavities 1107 can be completely isolated by the structural beam 1106 to avoid mutual interference between the two sets of battery modules 20.

[0058] In some embodiments, a weight-reducing cavity 1108 is provided inside the structural beam 1106. The number of weight-reducing cavities 1108 can be set based on the structural strength of the structural beam 1106, such as one or two, in order to reduce the overall weight of the box.

[0059] For further details, please refer to Figure 4 To ensure the battery modules are stably fixed within the housing, the second end cover 12 is provided with a limiting plate 123 protruding along the first direction X toward each compartment 1107. The number of limiting plates 123 can be equal to the number of battery modules 20, used to limit the horizontal movement of the battery modules 20. The limiting plates 123 can horizontally limit the battery modules 20 to prevent horizontal displacement, thus ensuring the battery modules are stably fixed within the housing.

[0060] In this application, the main body 11 of the box, the first end cover 13, and the second end cover 12 can be assembled using a snap-fit ​​or bolt fastening process.

[0061] On the other hand, please refer to Figure 9 This application also provides a battery pack, including: the aforementioned housing 10 and at least one set of battery modules 20, wherein the at least one set of battery modules 20 is disposed within the receiving cavity 1101 of the housing 10. In specific embodiments, the battery pack may include one set of battery modules 20, or it may include two, three, or four sets, etc. It can be designed according to the required battery capacity.

[0062] For further details, please refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11The battery module 20 includes a cell assembly 200, a base plate 204, two end plates 202, and a fixing strap 205. The cell assembly 200 comprises multiple individual cells 201 arranged sequentially along a first direction X. The cell assembly 200 is formed by stacking multiple individual cells 201 along the first direction X. Each individual cell 201 can be a secondary battery or a primary battery; it can also be a lithium-sulfur battery, a sodium-ion battery, or a magnesium-ion battery, but is not limited to these. The individual cell 201 can be flat, cuboid, or other shapes.

[0063] A spacer 206 is provided between two adjacent individual cells 201; the spacer 206 can be a heat insulation pad to isolate the two adjacent individual cells 201. The heat insulation pad can be a U-shaped structure. The two adjacent individual cells 201 are also fixedly connected by structural adhesive.

[0064] The base plate 204 supports the bottom of the cell assembly 200. The base plate 204 can be U-shaped, and the U-shaped base plate 204 can limit the movement of the individual cells 201 on both sides of the second direction Y of the battery module 20, that is, on both sides of the width direction. After the multiple individual cells 201, the end plate 202, and the battery management system 203 are assembled, the base plate 204 is fixed to the bottom of the cell assembly 200 using structural adhesive. The base plate 204 can be an aluminum plate. Due to the metal material of the base plate 204, it can quickly transfer and exchange heat to the bottom of the battery module 20.

[0065] Two end plates 202 are respectively disposed at both ends of the cell assembly 200 along the first direction X. The end plates 202 are made of cast aluminum. A battery management system 203 is integrated on one of the end plates 202. The battery management system 203 can be a BMU or an LMU. The battery management system 203 can be integrated onto a single board. The board with the integrated battery management system 203 is fixed to the end plate 202 with bolts. In this way, the battery module 20 is a highly integrated module with functions such as voltage, temperature, and balancing.

[0066] The fixing strap 205 is sleeved on the outside of the two end plates 202 and the cell assembly 200. The outer side of the end plate 202 may be provided with a limiting groove extending along the second direction Y to accommodate the fixing strap 205, so that the fixing strap 205 is limited within the limiting groove of the end plate 202 and prevents it from moving up and down. The fixing strap 205 can be a steel strap, and its function is to fix multiple individual cells 201 and secure the battery module.

[0067] Furthermore, when the battery module 20 is installed into the housing 10, since the plate with the battery management system 203 protrudes from the battery module 20 along the first direction X, the end with the battery management system 203 is positioned towards the second end cover 12. At this time, the limiting plate 123 of the second end cover 12 abuts against the bottom of the battery management system 203 of the battery module 20, so that the end plate 202 on the other side of the battery module 20 abuts against the first end cover 13, so that it can contact the second heat exchange channel 130 for heat exchange, and at the same time, the battery module 20 can be fixed.

[0068] For further details, please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 11 The exhaust port 1171 of the exhaust channel 117 of the housing 10 corresponds to the explosion-proof valve 2011 of each individual cell 201 in the cell pack 200. Therefore, when a single cell 201 experiences thermal runaway, the high-temperature gas emitted from the explosion-proof valve 2011 of the single cell 201 can directly enter the exhaust channel 117 through the exhaust port 1171, preventing the high-temperature gas from being ejected onto other individual cells 201 and causing a short circuit in the battery pack.

[0069] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A case characterized by comprising: include: The main body of the box (11) includes a first side plate (111), a second side plate (112) disposed opposite to the first side plate (111), a first plate (113) connected between the first side plate (111) and the second side plate (112), and a second plate (114) disposed opposite to the first plate (113). The first side plate (111), the second side plate (112), the first plate (113) and the second plate (114) form a receiving cavity (1101). The receiving cavity (1101) has a first opening (1103) and a second opening (1102) disposed opposite to each other along a first direction (X). A first heat exchange channel (115) for allowing the heat exchange medium to flow is provided inside the first side plate (111), the second side plate (112), the first plate (113) and the second plate (114) along the first direction (X). The first direction (X) is the length direction of the box (10). The first end cap (13) is closed to the first opening (1103). The interior of the first end cap (13) is provided with a second heat exchange channel (130) that allows the heat exchange medium to flow. The second heat exchange channel (130) is connected to the first heat exchange channel (115). The second end cap (12) is closed to the second opening (1102).

2. The case of claim 1, wherein, The first heat exchange channel (115) extends through the first side plate (111), the second side plate (112), the first plate (113) and the second plate (114) along the first direction (X), and the second end cap (12) closes the side of the first heat exchange channel (115) away from the second heat exchange channel (130); The first end cap (13) is provided with an inlet (134) and an outlet (135) arranged opposite to each other along the second direction (Y). The inlet (134) and the outlet (135) are respectively connected to the second heat exchange channel (130), wherein the second direction (Y) is the width direction of the box (10).

3. The case of claim 1, wherein, An exhaust channel (117) extending along the first direction (X) is provided on the side of the second plate (114) near the receiving cavity (1101). Both ends of the exhaust channel (117) penetrate the second plate (114) along the first direction (X) and are isolated from the first heat exchange channel (115). The first end cap (13) closes the side of the exhaust channel (117) near the first opening (1103). The second end cap (12) is provided with a pressure relief valve (30) connected to the exhaust channel (117) on the side away from the second opening (1102) along the first direction (X). The exhaust channel (117) is provided with an exhaust hole (1171) on the side facing the receiving cavity (1101) along the third direction (Z), wherein the third direction (Z) is the height direction of the box body (10).

4. The case of claim 3, wherein, The second end cap (12) has a recessed air collecting groove (121) on one side of the exhaust channel (117) along the first direction (X). The air collecting groove (121) is connected to the exhaust channel (117). A through mounting hole (122) is provided in the air collecting groove (121). The pressure relief valve (30) is installed in the mounting hole (122) along the first direction (X) and exposed outside the second end cap (12).

5. The case according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The main body of the box (11) also includes a support plate (116) disposed on the side of the first plate (113) facing the receiving cavity (1101) along the third direction (Z). A cavity (1105) extending along the first direction (X) is formed between the support plate (116) and the first plate (113). The support plate (116) is fitted with a plurality of rolling support devices (118) spaced apart along the first direction (X) at positions corresponding to the cavity (1105). The rolling support devices (118) protrude from the support plate (116) and can rotate 360° within the cavity (1105). The third direction (Z) is the height direction of the box (10).

6. The case of claim 5, wherein, The main body of the box (11) also includes a structural beam (1106) extending along the first direction (X). The structural beam (1106) protrudes along the third direction (Z) on the side of the support plate (116) facing the receiving cavity (1101) and divides the receiving cavity (1101) into multiple compartments (1107) for receiving battery modules. The structural beam (1106) has a weight reduction cavity (1108) inside.

7. The case of claim 6, wherein, The second end cap (12) is provided with a limiting plate (123) protruding along the first direction (X) toward each of the compartments (1107) to limit the battery module in the horizontal direction.

8. A battery pack, characterized by, include: The housing (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7; At least one set of battery modules (20) is disposed in the receiving cavity (1101) of the housing (10).

9. The battery pack of claim 8, wherein, The battery module (20) includes: The battery cell assembly (200) includes a plurality of individual battery cells (201) arranged sequentially along the first direction (X), and a spacer (206) is provided between two adjacent individual battery cells (201). A base plate (204) is supported at the bottom of the battery cell assembly (200); Two end plates (202) are respectively disposed at both ends of the cell pack (200) along the first direction (X), and a battery management system (203) is integrated on one of the end plates (202). A fixing strap (205) is fitted onto the outside of the two end plates (202) and the battery cell assembly (200).

10. The battery pack of claim 9, wherein, The exhaust port (1171) of the exhaust channel (117) of the housing (10) is provided with an explosion-proof valve (2011) for each of the individual cells (201) in the cell group (200).

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