Battery module and battery pack

Abstract

The utility model provides a battery module and a battery pack. The battery module comprises at least two battery cells; each isolation assembly is located between every two adjacent battery cells, each isolation assembly comprises a heat insulation part and an insulation part, the heat insulation parts are arranged on the side edges of the battery cells and used for isolating heat between every two adjacent battery cells, and the insulation parts are arranged on the heat insulation parts and located on the heat insulation parts. According to the invention, the problem of heat diffusion caused by heat insulation failure and arc discharge in the thermal runaway process of the battery cell can be effectively solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a battery module and battery pack, belonging to the field of new energy battery technology. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of the new energy industry, the market demand for the driving range and charging speed of new energy vehicles is gradually increasing. In order to improve the driving range and fast charging capabilities, high-voltage platform battery systems, such as 600V and 800V voltage platforms, are gradually being applied.

[0003] In conceiving and implementing this application, the applicant discovered at least the following problems: However, this also brings about safety protection issues for high-voltage systems, especially the thermal safety issues caused by thermal runaway of battery cells, which remains one of the challenges that every company needs to explore. When a battery cell experiences thermal runaway, its heat is transferred to neighboring cells, causing those neighboring cells to absorb a large amount of heat and also experience thermal runaway.

[0004] The preceding description is intended to provide general background information and does not necessarily constitute prior art. Utility Model Content

[0005] This application provides a battery module and battery pack that can effectively solve the problems of thermal insulation failure and arcing during the thermal runaway of battery cells, which in turn lead to thermal diffusion.

[0006] This application provides a battery module, including:

[0007] At least two battery cells;

[0008] An isolation assembly is located between two adjacent battery cells. The isolation assembly includes a heat insulation component and an insulating component. The heat insulation component is located on the side of the battery cell and is used to isolate the heat between the two adjacent battery cells. The insulating component is located on the heat insulation component.

[0009] The beneficial effects of this application are: by setting the isolation component, the heat insulation component is set between adjacent cells, which can effectively prevent the transfer of heat between multiple cells, and can prevent the overheating of one cell from affecting adjacent cells, thus reducing the risk of thermal runaway; at the same time, the insulation component can prevent arcing problems between conductors (such as electrode plates in the cell) caused by thermal runaway ejection, thereby improving the safety of the battery module.

[0010] In some alternative implementations, along the arrangement direction of at least two cells, the projected area of ​​the insulation element is smaller than the projected area of ​​the cells.

[0011] It should be noted that by limiting the projected area of ​​the thermal insulation component, the internal space utilization of the battery pack is optimized. This design ensures that the thermal insulation component provides the necessary thermal isolation function without occupying excessive space, thereby allowing more battery cells to be accommodated within a limited space and improving the energy density of the battery module.

[0012] In some alternative implementations, the insulation element is a flexible element;

[0013] Along the height direction of the battery cell, the height of the heat insulation component is lower than the height of the battery cell.

[0014] It should be noted that flexible insulation can better adapt to changes in the shape and size of the battery cell, especially when the battery cell expands and contracts with temperature or is subjected to mechanical stress, which helps to maintain good insulation performance.

[0015] In some alternative embodiments, a first gap is provided between the top of the heat insulation member and the top of the battery cell along the height direction of the battery cell, the first gap being between 5mm and 15mm.

[0016] It should be noted that this first gap acts as a buffer, allowing heat to dissipate more freely in the top region of the cell. By leaving a gap at the top of the cell, heat accumulation in this area can be reduced, thus lowering the risk of thermal runaway.

[0017] In some alternative implementations, the insulating element is located within the first gap and protrudes from the top of the cell along the height direction of the cell.

[0018] It should be noted that the insulating component is located within the gap at the top of the cell and protrudes from the top of the cell, which can effectively prevent electrical short circuits between cells or between cells and other components, thereby improving the safety of the battery pack.

[0019] In some alternative embodiments, a second gap, between the top of the insulator and the top of the cell, is provided along the height direction of the cell, the second gap being between 5 mm and 15 mm.

[0020] It should be noted that the second gap provides additional space to promote airflow, thereby enhancing heat dissipation at the top of the cell. This helps reduce the cell's operating temperature and improves the battery's thermal management performance.

[0021] In some alternative implementations, the insulation element is aerogel.

[0022] It's worth noting that aerogels, due to their excellent thermal insulation properties, can achieve effective insulation even with a relatively thin layer, thus saving internal space in the battery pack. This frees up more space for other components or allows for more cells to be housed within the same volume. It helps prevent battery thermal runaway, reduces the risk of overheating and fire, and improves overall battery safety.

[0023] In some alternative implementations, the insulation is an epoxy board.

[0024] It should be noted that epoxy boards have excellent electrical insulation properties, which can effectively prevent electrical short circuits between cells or between cells and other components, thereby improving the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0025] In some alternative implementations, at least two end plates are also included, which are attached to opposite ends of the battery module.

[0026] It should be noted that the end plate provides additional mechanical support and stability to the battery module, helping to maintain the overall structural integrity of the battery module. During the assembly process of the battery module, the end plate helps to evenly distribute pressure, preventing individual cells from being subjected to excessive mechanical stress, thereby avoiding cell deformation or damage.

[0027] In addition, this application also provides a battery pack, including a housing and the aforementioned battery module, wherein the housing has a receiving cavity and the battery module is located within the receiving cavity.

[0028] The battery module and battery pack provided in this application include a battery module; the battery module includes: at least two battery cells; an isolation component located between two adjacent battery cells, the isolation component including a heat insulation component and an insulating component, the heat insulation component being disposed on the side of the battery cell and used to isolate the heat between two adjacent battery cells, and the insulating component being disposed on the heat insulation component and located on the heat insulation component.

[0029] By setting up isolation components, heat insulation is placed between adjacent cells, which can effectively prevent the transfer of heat between multiple cells. This can prevent one cell from overheating and affecting adjacent cells, reducing the risk of thermal runaway. At the same time, insulation can prevent arcing between conductors (such as electrode plates in the cell) caused by thermal runaway ejection, improving the safety of the battery module. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The above and other objects, features, and advantages of embodiments of this application will become more readily understood through the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, several embodiments of this application will be described by way of example and non-limitation, wherein:

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery module structure according to an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the battery module according to an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of the battery module in an embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figure label:

[0035] 100-Battery Module;

[0036] 110-cell;

[0037] 111-Electrode;

[0038] 120 - Isolation Component;

[0039] 121 - Thermal insulation;

[0040] 122 - Insulating components;

[0041] 130-End plate. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. All other obtained embodiments are within the scope of protection of this application. In the absence of conflict, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0043] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0044] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0045] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0046] In conceiving and implementing this application, the applicant discovered at least the following problems: However, this also brings about safety protection issues for high-voltage systems, especially the thermal safety issues caused by thermal runaway of battery cells, which remains one of the challenges that every company needs to explore. When a battery cell experiences thermal runaway, its heat is transferred to neighboring cells, causing those neighboring cells to absorb a large amount of heat and also experience thermal runaway.

[0047] The battery module proposed in this application, through the setting of isolation components and the placement of heat insulation components between adjacent cells, can effectively prevent the transfer of heat between multiple cells, and can prevent the overheating of one cell from affecting adjacent cells, thereby reducing the risk of thermal runaway. At the same time, the insulation components can prevent arcing problems between conductors (such as electrode plates in the cell) caused by thermal runaway ejection, thereby improving the safety of the battery module.

[0048] The battery module provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery module structure according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the battery module according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of the battery module in an embodiment of this application.

[0050] like Figures 1 to 3As shown in the figure, this application embodiment proposes a battery module 100, including:

[0051] At least two 110-cell batteries;

[0052] The isolation assembly 120 is located between two adjacent battery cells 110. The isolation assembly 120 includes a heat insulation element 121 and an insulating element 122. The heat insulation element 121 is disposed on the side of the battery cell 110 and is used to isolate the heat between two adjacent battery cells 110. The insulating element 122 is disposed on the heat insulation element 121 and is located on the heat insulation element 121.

[0053] In some embodiments, the cell 110 includes an electrode 111.

[0054] It should be noted that the battery module 100 provided in this application embodiment also includes an isolation component 120. The isolation component 120 is located between two adjacent cells 110. The isolation component 120 includes a heat insulation component 121, which is used to isolate the heat between the two adjacent cells 110. That is, after the heat on one of the two adjacent cells 110 is isolated by the isolation component, a small portion of the heat is transferred to the other of the two adjacent cells 110.

[0055] The isolation assembly 120 also includes an insulating element 122, which is disposed on the heat insulation element 121 to isolate two adjacent cells 110, prevent short circuits, and prevent arcing between conductors (such as electrode plates 111) caused by thermal runaway ejection.

[0056] With the above-mentioned configuration, namely, with the isolation component 120 and the heat insulation component 121 positioned between adjacent cells 110, heat transfer between multiple cells 110 can be effectively prevented. This can prevent overheating of one cell 110 from affecting adjacent cells 110, reducing the risk of thermal runaway. At the same time, the insulation component 122 can prevent arcing between conductors (such as electrode plates 111 in cell 110) caused by thermal runaway ejection, improving the safety of the battery module 100.

[0057] In some alternative embodiments, along the arrangement direction of at least two cells 110, the projected area of ​​the heat insulation element 121 is smaller than the projected area of ​​the cells 110.

[0058] It should be noted that by limiting the projected area of ​​the heat insulation component 121, the space utilization inside the battery pack is optimized. This design ensures that the heat insulation component 121 provides the necessary thermal insulation function without occupying too much space, thereby allowing more battery cells 110 to be accommodated in a limited space and improving the energy density of the battery module 100.

[0059] Although the projected area of ​​the heat insulation element 121 is small, it can still effectively isolate the heat transfer between adjacent cells 110 and maintain good thermal management performance.

[0060] Furthermore, due to the optimized dimensions of the heat insulation component 121, the design can more easily accommodate cell arrangements of different sizes and shapes, enhancing the flexibility and compatibility of the battery module 100 design.

[0061] It should be noted that at least two 110 cells are arranged in an X-direction.

[0062] In some alternative embodiments, the thermal insulation element 121 is a flexible element;

[0063] Along the height direction of the cell 110, the height of the heat insulation component 121 is lower than the height of the cell 110.

[0064] It should be noted that the flexible thermal insulation component 121 can better adapt to changes in the shape and size of the battery cell 110, especially when the battery cell 110 is subjected to thermal expansion and contraction or mechanical stress, which helps to maintain good thermal insulation performance.

[0065] Since the height of the heat insulation component 121 is lower than the height of the battery cell 110, the amount of material used may be reduced, thereby reducing the overall weight.

[0066] Furthermore, the lower height of the insulation 121 may save internal space in the battery pack, allowing for a more compact design. This can free up more space for other components or allow for more battery cells 110 to be housed in the same volume.

[0067] Understandably, by providing insulation in the critical areas of cell 110, more effective thermal management can be achieved, preventing the formation of overheated areas, while allowing cell 110 to dissipate heat better in non-critical areas.

[0068] In some alternative embodiments, along the height direction of the cell 110, there is a first gap between the top end of the heat insulation member 121 and the top end of the cell 110, the first gap being between 5mm and 15mm.

[0069] It should be noted that this first gap can act as a buffer, allowing heat to dissipate more freely in the top region of the cell 110. By leaving a gap at the top of the cell 110, heat accumulation in this area can be reduced, thus lowering the risk of thermal runaway.

[0070] Furthermore, the presence of the first gap may help reduce the accumulation of mechanical stress during the thermal expansion and contraction of the battery cell 110, thereby maintaining the structural integrity of the battery pack. By leaving a gap at the top, the amount of thermal insulation material used can be reduced, thus lowering cost and weight. The first gap may also provide a channel for airflow within the battery pack, further enhancing heat dissipation.

[0071] In some embodiments, the first gap can be any value among 5mm, 6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 9mm, 10mm, 11mm, 12mm, 13mm, 14mm or 15mm.

[0072] In some alternative embodiments, along the height direction of the cell 110, the insulating member 122 is located within the first gap and protrudes from the top of the cell 110.

[0073] It should be noted that the insulating component 122 is located in the gap at the top of the cell 110 and protrudes from the top of the cell 110, which can effectively prevent electrical short circuits between cells 110 or between cells 110 and other components, thereby improving the safety of the battery pack.

[0074] The protruding insulating member 122 provides additional mechanical protection for the top of the cell 110, preventing damage to the cell 110 from external physical impacts or vibrations. The protruding insulating member 122 can also act as a barrier to prevent foreign objects from entering the battery pack, reducing the potential risk of short circuits.

[0075] In addition, since the heat insulation component 121 is a flexible component, the insulating component 122 can provide additional support and protection, and the insulating component 122 can improve the structural stability of the entire battery pack.

[0076] In some alternative embodiments, along the height direction of the cell 110, there is a second gap between the top end of the insulator 122 and the top end of the cell 110, the second gap being between 5mm and 15mm.

[0077] It should be noted that the second gap provides additional space to promote airflow, thereby enhancing heat dissipation at the top of cell 110. This helps reduce the operating temperature of cell 110 and improves the battery's thermal management performance.

[0078] During the manufacturing process, the second gap can serve as part of the tolerance compensation, allowing for a certain degree of dimensional variation without affecting the battery's performance and safety.

[0079] In some embodiments, the second gap can be any value among 5mm, 6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 9mm, 10mm, 11mm, 12mm, 13mm, 14mm or 15mm.

[0080] In some alternative embodiments, the thermal insulation 121 is aerogel.

[0081] It should be noted that, due to the excellent thermal insulation properties of aerogel, effective thermal insulation can be achieved with a relatively thin layer, thereby saving internal space in the battery pack. This allows for more space for other components or enables the placement of more cells within the same volume. It helps prevent battery thermal runaway, reduces the risk of overheating and fire, and improves the overall safety of the battery.

[0082] Specifically, aerogels are known for their extremely low thermal conductivity, which can significantly reduce thermal conduction between cells 110 or between cells 110 and the external environment. This helps maintain the battery within its ideal operating temperature range, improving battery efficiency and lifespan.

[0083] Because aerogel has a very low density, it can provide effective thermal insulation without increasing the weight of the battery pack.

[0084] In addition, aerogels typically have good chemical stability and are not prone to reacting with battery electrolytes or other chemicals, thereby improving battery reliability and durability.

[0085] In some alternative embodiments, the insulating element 122 is an epoxy board.

[0086] It should be noted that epoxy boards have excellent electrical insulation properties, which can effectively prevent electrical short circuits between cells 110 or between cells 110 and other components, thereby improving the safety and reliability of the battery pack.

[0087] Among them, the epoxy board has high mechanical strength and rigidity, which can provide good physical protection for the battery cell 110 and prevent damage to the battery cell 110 caused by external impact and vibration.

[0088] Furthermore, epoxy boards typically possess excellent heat resistance, maintaining their physical and electrical properties at high temperatures. They also exhibit good chemical stability, resisting reactions with battery electrolytes or other chemicals, thus enhancing battery durability and reliability. Epoxy boards are easy to process and can be cut into various shapes and sizes to meet specific battery pack design requirements. Finally, epoxy boards maintain stable performance under diverse environmental conditions, including humid and corrosive environments.

[0089] In some alternative embodiments, at least two end plates 130 are also included, which are attached to opposite ends of the battery module 100.

[0090] It should be noted that the end plate 130 provides additional mechanical support and stability to the battery module 100, helping to maintain the overall structural integrity of the battery module 100. During the assembly of the battery module 100, the end plate 130 helps to evenly distribute pressure, preventing individual cells 110 from being subjected to excessive mechanical stress, thereby avoiding deformation or damage to the cells 110.

[0091] In addition, the end plate 130 can provide an extra layer of electrical insulation to prevent the end of the battery module 100 from coming into contact with external conductive materials, reducing the risk of short circuits. The end plate 130 can protect the battery cells 110 and other components inside the battery module 100 from the influence of the external environment, such as moisture, dust and chemicals.

[0092] The battery module provided in this application includes at least two battery cells; an isolation component located between two adjacent battery cells. The isolation component includes a heat insulation component and an insulating component. The heat insulation component is disposed on the side of the battery cell and is used to isolate the heat between two adjacent battery cells. The insulating component is disposed on the heat insulation component and is located on the heat insulation component.

[0093] By setting up isolation components, heat insulation is placed between adjacent cells, which can effectively prevent the transfer of heat between multiple cells. This can prevent one cell from overheating and affecting adjacent cells, reducing the risk of thermal runaway. At the same time, insulation can prevent arcing between conductors (such as electrode plates in the cell) caused by thermal runaway ejection, improving the safety of the battery module.

[0094] In addition, this application embodiment also provides a housing and the battery module 100 described above, the housing having a receiving cavity, and the battery module 100 being located within the receiving cavity.

[0095] It is understandable that the purpose of the receiving cavity is to house the battery module 100. It is also easy to understand that the receiving cavity is sealed to prevent side reactions from occurring in the internal system of the battery cell 110 in the battery module 100, which would affect the performance of the battery cell 110.

[0096] For example, the size or shape of the receiving cavity is matched with the size and shape of the battery module 100. Specifically, it can be adjusted according to the actual situation. This application embodiment does not impose too many restrictions here.

[0097] In this embodiment, the battery module 100 can be configured as a rectangular structure. The battery module 100 can be located inside the housing.

[0098] Understandably, the enclosure is designed to support the battery module 100.

[0099] The dimensions of the aforementioned box can be set according to actual needs, and this application embodiment does not impose any further restrictions.

[0100] Additionally, it should be noted that this embodiment does not limit the shape of the box. For example, the box can be a regular shape such as a cuboid or a cylinder, or it can be other irregular shapes.

[0101] In one possible implementation, the housing can be a rectangular structure, and the size of the housing can be greater than or equal to the size of the battery module 100, so that the housing can support the battery module 100.

[0102] It should be noted that the specific structure of the battery module 100 will not be limited here; please refer to the above.

[0103] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0104] 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 at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0105] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A battery module (100), characterized in that, include: At least two battery cells (110); An isolation assembly (120) is located between two adjacent battery cells (110). The isolation assembly (120) includes a heat insulation element (121) and an insulating element (122). The heat insulation element (121) is disposed on the side of the battery cell (110) and is used to isolate the heat between two adjacent battery cells (110). The insulating element (122) is disposed on the heat insulation element (121) and is located on the heat insulation element (121).

2. The battery module (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the arrangement direction of at least two of the battery cells (110), the projected area of ​​the heat insulation member (121) is smaller than the projected area of ​​the battery cells (110).

3. The battery module (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The heat insulation component (121) is a flexible component; Along the height direction of the battery cell (110), the height of the heat insulation member (121) is lower than the height of the battery cell (110).

4. The battery module (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that, Along the height direction of the battery cell (110), there is a first gap between the top end of the heat insulation member (121) and the top end of the battery cell (110), the first gap being between 5mm and 15mm.

5. The battery module (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, Along the height direction of the cell (110), the insulating member (122) is located within the first gap and protrudes from the top of the cell (110).

6. The battery module (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, Along the height direction of the battery cell (110), there is a second gap between the top end of the insulating member (122) and the top end of the battery cell (110), the second gap being between 5mm and 15mm.

7. The battery module (100) according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The heat insulation component (121) is aerogel.

8. The battery module (100) according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The insulating component (122) is an epoxy board.

9. The battery module (100) according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, It also includes at least two end plates (130), which are attached to opposite ends of the battery module (100).

10. A battery pack, characterized in that, The device includes a housing and a battery module (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, the housing having a receiving cavity in which the battery module (100) is located.

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