Limiting structure and energy storage system

Abstract

The utility model discloses a limiting structure and an energy storage system, and relates to the technical field of batteries, and the limiting structure is used for limiting a battery cell group; the limiting structure comprises at least two plate bodies arranged in the first direction, and every two adjacent plate bodies are connected through a mortise and tenon joint structure. The plate body is provided with a first face, a second face, a third face and a fourth face, the first face and the second face are oppositely arranged in the first direction, the third face and the fourth face are oppositely arranged between the first face and the second face, and the sizes of the first face and the second face are smaller than those of the third face and the fourth face. The first face or the second face of any plate body is connected with the second face or the first face of the adjacent plate body through a mortise and tenon joint structure. The plate bodies are spliced in a tenon-and-mortise matching mode, the problems that a structure for limiting the battery cell set is inconvenient to connect and cannot be stably connected are effectively solved, space occupied by the limiting structure can be reduced, the space utilization rate and the system electric quantity of the energy storage system are increased, and the energy storage system has the electric quantity competition advantage.

Description

Limiting structure and energy storage system Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a limiting structure and energy storage system. Background Technology

[0002] In battery pack design, cells are often stacked. Traditional cell pack design involves a hierarchical stacking of cells → modules → packs → energy storage systems, and relies on supporting structures to maintain mechanical stability.

[0003] In related technologies, independent support plates and other structures are configured for multiple battery cell groups to limit the position of the battery cell groups. However, these support plates have problems such as inconvenient connection and inability to make a stable connection. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main purpose of this application is to propose a limiting structure and energy storage system, which aims to solve the problems of inconvenient connection and unstable connection of the structure used to limit the battery pack.

[0005] On the one hand, a limiting structure is provided for limiting the position of a battery cell assembly; the limiting structure includes at least two plates arranged along a first direction, and adjacent plates are connected by a tenon and mortise structure.

[0006] The plate has a first surface, a second surface, a third surface, and a fourth surface. The first surface and the second surface are arranged opposite to each other along a first direction. The third surface and the fourth surface are arranged opposite to each other between the first surface and the second surface. The dimensions of the first surface and the second surface are smaller than the dimensions of the third surface and the fourth surface.

[0007] The first or second surface of any of the said plates is connected to the second or first surface of the adjacent said plates via the mortise and tenon structure.

[0008] In one embodiment, the limiting structure further includes a connector, which is provided between two adjacent plates, and the connector is connected to the two adjacent plates by the tenon and mortise structure.

[0009] In one embodiment, the mortise and tenon structure includes a first snap-fit ​​portion and a second snap-fit ​​portion, wherein the first snap-fit ​​portion is disposed on the connector, and the second snap-fit ​​portion is disposed on at least one of the first surface and the second surface of the plate.

[0010] The connector has two first snap-fit ​​parts. One of the two first snap-fit ​​parts is mortised and tenoned with a second snap-fit ​​part of one of the adjacent plates, and the other is mortised and tenoned with a second snap-fit ​​part of another of the adjacent plates.

[0011] In one embodiment, the connector further includes a connecting body, with two first snap-fit ​​portions disposed opposite each other on both sides of the connecting body.

[0012] In one embodiment, the mortise and tenon structure includes a tenon on the first surface of the board and a groove on the second surface, wherein the grooves of the multiple boards are connected to the tenons of adjacent boards in a mortise and tenon joint manner.

[0013] On the other hand, an energy storage system is provided, the energy storage system including:

[0014] A plurality of said battery cell groups stacked along a first direction;

[0015] As described above, the limiting structure is provided on at least one side of the battery cell assembly;

[0016] A base on which multiple battery cell assemblies are disposed;

[0017] A bracket is disposed on the base, and the bracket supports the side of the limiting structure facing away from the plurality of battery cell groups.

[0018] In one embodiment, the positions of the plurality of plates correspond one-to-one with the positions of the plurality of battery cell groups.

[0019] In one embodiment, an aerogel is provided between the plate and the battery cell assembly.

[0020] In one embodiment, there are two limiting structures, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the battery cell assembly.

[0021] In one embodiment, the energy storage system includes a cooling plate disposed between the two limiting structures and connected to the plurality of battery cell groups.

[0022] The above-described one or more technical solutions in the embodiments of this application have at least one of the following technical effects:

[0023] The limiting structure of the technical solution of this application is used to limit the battery cell assembly. At least two plates of the limiting structure are arranged along the first direction, which can better adapt to the shape and size of the energy storage system. The adjacent plates are connected by a tenon and mortise structure, which not only facilitates assembly and connection, but also improves the stability of the connection, and facilitates daily installation and maintenance. It effectively solves the problems of inconvenient connection and inability to connect stably, and can reduce the space occupied by the limiting structure.

[0024] The first or second surface of any plate is connected to the second or first surface of its adjacent plate through a tenon and mortise structure. This allows for full contact with the cell assembly surface through the larger third and fourth surfaces, effectively limiting the cell assembly. It also allows the plates arranged along the first direction to be connected sequentially along the first direction during assembly, eliminating the need for complex positioning and alignment operations on other surfaces, and further improving manufacturing efficiency and compact structure.

[0025] By reducing the space occupied by the limiting structure, more space can be used for the installation of battery cells, increasing the volume ratio of the battery cells in the overall energy storage system structure, reducing the space occupied by the energy storage system, improving the space utilization and power capacity of the energy storage system, and making the energy storage system more competitive in terms of power output. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, 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 the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the limiting structure of this application;

[0028] Figure 2 is a disassembly and assembly diagram of an embodiment of the limiting structure of this application;

[0029] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the limiting structure of this application;

[0030] Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the connector of this application;

[0031] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the connector of this application;

[0032] Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the connector of this application;

[0033] Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the connector of this application;

[0034] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the connector of this application;

[0035] Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the connector of this application;

[0036] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the limiting structure of this application;

[0037] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the energy storage system of this application;

[0038] Figure 12 is a disassembly and assembly diagram of an embodiment of the energy storage system of this application;

[0039] Figure 13 is a partial structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the energy storage system of this application.

[0040] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0041] 100. Limiting structure; 101. First limiting structure; 102. Second limiting structure; 110. Plate; 120. Mortise and tenon structure; 1211. First snap-fit ​​part; 1212. Second snap-fit ​​part; 1221. Snap-fit ​​tenon; 1222. Snap-fit ​​groove; 130. Connector; 131. Connecting body; 140. Aerogel;

[0042] 200. Battery cell pack;

[0043] 300. Base;

[0044] 400, bracket;

[0045] 500, Cooling plate; 510, Thermal adhesive;

[0046] 600, top cover.

[0047] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0048] 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 a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0049] It should be noted that if the embodiments of this application involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0050] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this application involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution that simultaneously satisfies A and B. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

[0051] In battery pack design, cells are often stacked to meet power requirements and height space requirements. Traditional cell pack design involves a hierarchical stacking of cells → modules → packs → energy storage systems, and relies on supporting structures to maintain mechanical stability.

[0052] In related technologies, independent support plates are configured for multiple battery cell packs to limit their movement. However, these support plates suffer from inconvenient connection and unstable connection issues. Some support plates used for limiting battery cell packs also rely on external connecting rods for frame connection, primarily by connecting the two ends of the connecting rods to the support plate and base (or ground, support seat, etc.). However, as the number of battery cell pack layers increases, the frame connection of multiple support plates is prone to twisting, making it difficult for the connecting rods to connect to the support plates. Support plates connected by discretely arranged connecting rods not only suffer from inconvenient connection but also are prone to unstable connection issues.

[0053] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, this application proposes a limiting structure 100 for limiting the battery cell assembly 200; the limiting structure 100 includes at least two plates 110 arranged along a first direction.

[0054] The limiting structure 100 may include two, three or more other plates 110, each plate 110 being an independent plate-shaped unit. At least two plates 110 enable the limiting structure 100 to have greater flexibility and assemblability while maintaining overall structural strength. The shapes and sizes of the at least two plates 110 may be the same or different; the specifics can be set according to actual conditions and are not limited here.

[0055] Compared to using an integral support plate or other support structure to limit the cell assembly 200 of the energy storage system, in this embodiment, at least two plates 110 of the limiting structure 100 are arranged along the first direction D1, which can distribute the weight and pressure on the side of the energy storage system to multiple points, avoid stress concentration to a certain extent, and improve the stability of the overall structure. Through the connection of at least two plates 110, it can also better adapt to the shape and size of the energy storage system. When a plate 110 is damaged, it can be replaced individually without replacing the entire limiting structure 100, thus reducing maintenance costs.

[0056] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, for example, two adjacent plates 110 are connected by a tenon and mortise structure 120.

[0057] "Tenon" refers to the protruding part, and "mortise" refers to the recessed part. In the structure of the limiting structure 100, adjacent plates 110 are connected by mortise and tenon joints 120. This achieves a tight and stable connection between adjacent plates 110 without the need for screws, glue, or other connecting structures. This not only facilitates assembly and connection but also improves the stability of the connection and makes daily installation and maintenance easier. Compared to support plates that require external connecting rods for frame connection, the mortise and tenon joints 120 connect at least two plates 110 of the limiting structure to form a single integrated structure. This can, to a certain extent, prevent unstable connections between at least two plates 110 and effectively limit the movement of the battery cell assembly.

[0058] The plate 110 has a first surface, a second surface, a third surface, and a fourth surface. The first surface and the second surface are arranged opposite each other along a first direction, and the third surface and the fourth surface are arranged opposite each other between the first surface and the second surface. The dimensions of the first surface and the second surface are smaller than the dimensions of the third surface and the fourth surface. The first surface or the second surface of any plate 110 is connected to the second surface or the first surface of its adjacent plate 110 by a tenon and mortise structure 120.

[0059] The energy storage system includes multiple battery cell groups 200 stacked along a first direction D1, where D1 can be the height direction. A limiting structure 100 is used to limit the battery cell groups 200. Multiple plates 110 are arranged along the first direction D1, which can better adapt to the shape and size of the energy storage system. Adjacent plates 110 are connected by a tenon and mortise structure 120, which not only facilitates assembly and connection but also improves the stability of the connection and facilitates daily installation and maintenance. This effectively solves the problems of inconvenient connection and unstable connection in the structure used to limit the battery cell groups 200. In related technologies, a support plate is placed between two battery cell groups 200 to connect adjacent battery cell groups 200. In this embodiment, the limiting structure 100 is located on the side of the energy storage system, which can reduce the space occupied by the limiting structure 100, allowing more space to be used for the installation of battery cell groups 200, and enabling more battery cell groups 200 to be stacked in the same space, resulting in a larger battery cell capacity. In this way, the volume ratio of the battery cell assembly 200 in the overall structure of the energy storage system can be increased, reducing the space occupied by the energy storage system, improving the space utilization and power capacity of the energy storage system, and making the energy storage system more competitive in terms of power output. The first or second surface of any plate 110 is connected to the second or first surface of its adjacent plate 110 through the tenon and mortise structure 120. This allows for full contact with the surface of the battery cell assembly 200 through the larger third and fourth surfaces, effectively limiting the battery cell assembly 200. It also allows the plates 110 arranged along the first direction to be connected sequentially along the first direction during assembly. This eliminates the need for complex positioning and alignment operations on other surfaces and further improves manufacturing efficiency and compact structure.

[0060] As shown in Figure 3, in one embodiment, the limiting structure 100 further includes a connector 130. A connector is provided between two adjacent plates 110, and the connector 130 is connected to the two adjacent plates 110 by a tenon and mortise structure 120.

[0061] Adjacent plates 110 are connected by independent connectors 130. Connectors 130 securely connect the two plates 110, transfer loads, and distribute stress, making the connection between adjacent plates 110 more robust and improving the overall structural stability. When subjected to external forces, connectors 130 can evenly distribute the force to each plate 110, avoiding stress concentration and reducing the possibility of structural damage. When the number of plates 110 arranged along the first direction D1 is too large, or when the weight or size of the plates 110 is large, connecting the plates 110 may be inconvenient. Connecting adjacent plates 110 via connectors 130 facilitates the connection. Connectors 130 use tenon and mortise structures 120 to connect adjacent plates 110 together, making the connection between plates 110 more stable and reliable, reducing connection difficulty, and improving assembly flexibility.

[0062] As shown in Figure 3, in one embodiment, the mortise and tenon structure 120 includes a first engaging portion 1211 and a second engaging portion 1212. The first engaging portion 1211 is provided on the connector 130, and the second engaging portion 1212 is provided on at least one of the first surface and the second surface of the plate 110. The connector 130 has two first engaging portions 1211, one of which is mortised and tenon-fitted with the second engaging portion 1212 of one of the adjacent plates 110, and the other is mortised and tenon-fitted with the second engaging portion 1212 of the other adjacent plate 110.

[0063] For example, the second snap-fit ​​portion 1212 can be provided on the first surface of the plate 110, or on the second surface of the plate 110, or on both the first and second surfaces of the plate 110. The first snap-fit ​​portion 1211 can be, but is not limited to, a snap-fit ​​tenon, a snap-fit ​​groove, or a combination of a snap-fit ​​tenon and a snap-fit ​​groove; both first snap-fit ​​portions 1211 can be snap-fit ​​tenons, or both can be snap-fit ​​grooves, or one can be a snap-fit ​​tenon and the other a snap-fit ​​groove. When the first snap-fit ​​portion 1211 uses a snap-fit ​​tenon, the second snap-fit ​​portion 1212 can be a snap-fit ​​groove adapted to the snap-fit ​​tenon. The first snap-fit ​​portion 1211 of the connector 130 is connected to the snap-fit ​​tenon of the plate 110 in the form of a mortise and tenon joint. Taking one of the two first snap-fit ​​portions 1211 provided in the connector as an example, when the first snap-fit ​​portion 1211 adopts a snap-fit ​​groove, the second snap-fit ​​portion 1212 of one of the two adjacent plates can be a snap-fit ​​tenon adapted to the snap-fit ​​groove, and the snap-fit ​​groove is connected to the snap-fit ​​tenon of the corresponding plate 110 in the form of mortise and tenon joint; when the first snap-fit ​​portion 1211 adopts a snap-fit ​​tenon, the second snap-fit ​​portion 1212 of one of the two adjacent plates can be a snap-fit ​​groove adapted to the snap-fit ​​tenon, and the snap-fit ​​tenon is connected to the snap-fit ​​groove of the corresponding plate 110 in the form of mortise and tenon joint; when the first snap-fit ​​portion 1211 adopts a combination structure of snap-fit ​​tenon and snap-fit ​​groove, the second snap-fit ​​portion 1212 of one of the two adjacent plates can be a concave-convex structure of snap-fit ​​tenon and snap-fit ​​groove adapted to the first snap-fit ​​portion 1211, and the connector 130 is connected to the plate 110 in the form of mortise and tenon joint. An embodiment of the other of the two first latching portions 1211 can be referred to accordingly without further description; the shape, size, position, etc. of the two first latching portions 1211 may be the same or different; the same applies to the second latching portions 1212 of at least two plates 110; they are not limited here.

[0064] The connector 130 serves as an intermediate connecting structure. Its two first snap-fit ​​portions 1211 are respectively mortised and tenon-fitted with the second snap-fit ​​portions 1212 on the two adjacent plates 110. This mortise and tenon fit allows the connector 130 to be tightly connected to the plates 110, forming a unified structure. The connector 130, through the mortise and tenon structure 120, tightly connects the adjacent plates 110 together, effectively preventing relative displacement and loosening between the plates 110 to a certain extent, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the entire structure.

[0065] It should be noted that the second snap-fit ​​portion 1212 of the plate body 110 can be a metal stamping part, injection molded part, etc., fixed to the first and / or second surfaces of the plate body 110 and integrally formed with the plate body 110. Alternatively, the second snap-fit ​​portion 1212 can be fixed to the first and / or second surfaces of the plate body 110 by welding or other processes to facilitate installation and further optimize the stability and reliability of the overall structure. Alternatively, the second snap-fit ​​portion 1212 of the plate body 110 can be detachably set on the first and / or second surfaces of the plate body 110 and integrally formed with the plate body 110 to facilitate replacement and adjustment according to actual needs. The number of second latching portions 1212 provided on the plate body 110 can be one, two, three, or other multiple. When there is one second latching portion 1212, the second latching portion 1212 can be protruding along the length direction of the plate body or recessed along the length direction of the plate body. When there are multiple second latching portions 1212, the multiple second latching portions 1212 can be arranged along the length direction of the plate body, and each second latching portion 1212 can be protruding along the length direction of the plate body or recessed along the length direction of the plate body. The specific arrangement can be determined according to actual conditions and is not limited here.

[0066] As shown in FIG3, in one embodiment, the connector 130 further includes a connector body 131, and two first snap-fit ​​portions 1211 are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the connector body 131.

[0067] For example, the connecting body 131 can be, but is not limited to, a straight plate, a column, a tube, a structure composed of multiple straight plates, or any other structure suitable for practical use. The connecting body 131 has a first side and a second side arranged opposite to each other, and one of the two first snap-fit ​​portions 1211 is provided on the first side of the connecting body 131, and the other is provided on the second side of the connecting body 131. Taking the first snap-fit ​​portion 1211 provided on the first side as an example, the first snap-fit ​​portion 1211 can be provided in the middle of the first side of the connecting body 131 to provide uniform connection strength, or the first snap-fit ​​portion 1211 can be provided at any position on the first side of the connecting body 131, such as on the side edge of the first side, near the side end of the first side, or at the side end of the first side, to facilitate connection with the plate 110; the first snap-fit ​​portion 1211 can be perpendicular to the connecting body 131, or connected to the connecting body 131 at any other angle. Taking the first latching portion 1211 located on the second side as an example, the first latching portion 1211 can also be located at any position on the second side of the connecting body 131 and connected to the connecting body 131 at any angle. The two first latching portions 1211 can be symmetrically distributed about the connecting body 131; or, the two first latching portions 1211 can be staggered; or, the two first latching portions 1211 can be located at any other position on the connecting body 131; no limitation is imposed here.

[0068] Taking the two first snap-fit ​​parts 1211 as symmetrically distributed about the connecting body 131 as an example, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the two first snap-fit ​​parts 1211 can be snap-fit ​​tenons. The connecting tenons can be plates, or regular or irregular protrusions such as triangles, rectangles, and circles, so that the connector 130 is cross-shaped, I-shaped as shown in Figure 4, C-shaped as shown in Figure 5, or any other reasonable structure suitable for actual use; or, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the first snap-fit ​​part 1211 can be a snap-fit ​​groove, so that the connector 130 is E-shaped, H-shaped, or any other reasonable structure suitable for actual use; or, as shown in Figure 8, one of the two first snap-fit ​​parts 1211 can be a snap-fit ​​tenon and the other can be a snap-fit ​​groove, so that the connector 130 is F-shaped or any other reasonable structure suitable for actual use; the specific configuration can be based on actual conditions and is not limited here.

[0069] The two first snap-fit ​​parts 1211 are snap-fit ​​tenons, as shown in Figure 4. Taking the connector 130 as an I-shaped example, when the first direction D1 is the height direction, the two first snap-fit ​​parts 1211 are set to connect the upper and lower wing plates of the main body 131, which can provide vertical constraints and lock the upper and lower degrees of freedom of the two adjacent plates 110, thereby enhancing the strength and stability of the overall structure of the limiting structure 100. This is suitable for use in scenarios that need to withstand large loads, and achieves effective limiting and fixing of the upper and lower battery cell groups 200. When there are two limiting structures 100 and they are set on the left and right sides of multiple battery cell groups 200, they can also restrict the degrees of freedom of multiple battery cell groups 200, effectively support and fix multiple battery cell groups 200, and achieve effective limiting of multiple battery cell groups. As shown in Figure 5, taking the connector 130 as a C-shaped example, the two first snap-fit ​​parts 1211 are set in the same direction. The connector 130 is embedded into the edges of two adjacent plates through the two first snap-fit ​​parts 1211, which can facilitate installation and connection.

[0070] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, in some other embodiments, when the connecting tenon is a regular or irregular protrusion such as a triangle, rectangle, or circle, the connector 130 can also be a structure composed of multiple connecting tenons, not limited to including the connecting body 131. For example, the connector 130 can be a structure composed of two inverted triangles. Connecting tenons of different shapes can distribute the force to the connection part, which can avoid stress concentration to a certain extent and improve the overall stability and rigidity of the limiting structure.

[0071] In some other embodiments, the two first snap-fit ​​portions 1211 may be arranged opposite each other on both sides of the connecting body 131, or they may be arranged on the same side of the connecting body 131; or the two first snap-fit ​​portions 1211 may be arranged on any other different sides of the connecting body 131, and the connector 130 may be T-shaped or any other reasonable and practically applicable structure, such that one of two adjacent plates 110 is connected to one side of the connector 130 through one of the first snap-fit ​​portions 1211, and the other is connected to the other side of the connector 130 through the other first snap-fit ​​portion 1211. This is not limited here. The two first snap-fit ​​portions 1211 of the connector 130 may be metal stamping parts, injection molded parts, etc., fixed to the plate 110 and integrally formed with the plate 110, and fixed to the plate 110 by welding, bolting, or other processes. The structure, material, and manufacturing process of the connector 130 may be selected according to the application scenario and are not limited here.

[0072] As shown in Figure 10, in another embodiment, the mortise and tenon structure 120 includes a tenon 1221 provided on the first surface of the plate and a groove 1222 provided on the second surface of the plate. The grooves 1222 of the multiple plates are connected to the tenons 1221 of the adjacent plates 110 in the form of mortise and tenon joints.

[0073] At least two plates 110 have their snap-fit ​​grooves 1222 connected to the snap-fit ​​tenons 1221 of adjacent plates 110 in a mortise and tenon joint manner, achieving a stable connection between multiple plates 110 without the need for additional connectors 130. The overall structure is simple and compact. Installation is completed by aligning and inserting the snap-fit ​​grooves 1222 and snap-fit ​​tenons 1221 of adjacent plates 110, and disassembly is completed by separating the plates 110. Overall installation and disassembly are relatively simple.

[0074] The specific implementation of the connection between the locking grooves 1222 of multiple plates 110 and the locking tenons 1221 of adjacent plates 110 in the form of mortise and tenon joints can be referred to the relevant embodiments of mortise and tenon joints mentioned above, and will not be repeated here.

[0075] Furthermore, when the locking grooves of multiple plates 110 are connected to the locking tenons 1221 of adjacent plates 110 in a mortise and tenon joint manner, the multiple plates 110 are sequentially spliced ​​along the first direction, and the two plates 110 at the beginning and end are defined as the beginning plate and the end plate. The first side of the plate 110 is set near the beginning end, and the second side of the plate 110 is set near the end. It is possible that locking tenons and locking grooves are set on the second side of the beginning plate and the first side of the end plate, respectively; or, locking tenons are set only on the second side of the beginning plate and locking grooves are set only on the first side of the end plate; or, locking grooves are set only on the second side of the beginning plate and locking tenons are set only on the first side of the end plate. The specific configuration can be determined according to actual conditions and is not limited here.

[0076] The plate 110 of the limiting structure can be connected into one piece using any one or a combination of two of the aforementioned tenon and mortise structures or other tenon and mortise structures.

[0077] It should be noted that the two adjacent plates 110 are joined by mortise and tenon joints. In some other embodiments, the mortise and tenon joints can be supplemented by fasteners, anti-loosening adhesive, locking components and other connection structures to improve seismic performance and enhance the stability of the connection between the plates 110.

[0078] In some embodiments of this application, a cooling channel is provided in the middle of the plate 110 of the limiting structure 100. The cooling channel can be one or more grooves provided in the middle of the plate 110 to increase the air circulation path and reduce the weight of the limiting structure 100.

[0079] In other examples, plate 110 employs a liquid-cooled plate to rapidly remove heat through liquid circulation, thereby improving the heat dissipation efficiency of the energy storage system, extending the service life of the energy storage system, and optimizing equipment stability.

[0080] In some other examples, the plate 110 has a cavity in the middle, and a liquid cooling plate, cooling channels, etc. are provided in the cavity to provide more flexible heat dissipation, optimize the heat dissipation effect, and achieve uniform heat dissipation.

[0081] In other embodiments, besides providing a liquid cooling plate and cooling channels within the cavity, a cooling medium can also be filled within the cavity. The cooling medium can be a liquid, a phase change material that undergoes a phase change (e.g., from solid to liquid) upon absorbing heat, or other media capable of absorbing and transferring heat, used to promptly remove heat from the battery pack 200 and improve heat dissipation efficiency. When the energy storage system operates under high load or high temperature conditions, the limiting structure 100 with the cooling medium can also provide some heat insulation and fireproofing, improving safety. Specifically, the plate 110 in this embodiment can be configured according to actual conditions to facilitate stable connection while optimizing heat dissipation; no limitations are imposed here.

[0082] The support plate in the related technology is connected to the frame through external connecting rods, which also leads to a reduction in the utilization rate of cell space and reduces the market competitiveness of the energy storage system.

[0083] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, some embodiments of this application provide an energy storage system, which includes a base 300 and a plurality of battery cell groups 200 stacked along a first direction D1, wherein the plurality of battery cell groups 200 are disposed on the base 300.

[0084] The second direction D2 intersects with the first direction D1, where the first direction D1 can be vertical and the second direction D2 can be horizontal. Multiple cell groups 200 are stacked along the first direction D1. The bottommost cell group 200 is fixed to the base 300 by aerogel, thermally conductive adhesive, etc., and at least one other cell group 200 is stacked sequentially from bottom to top. Each cell group 200 includes multiple cells stacked sequentially along the second direction D2. These cells can be connected in series or parallel for storing and releasing electrical energy. Adjacent cells can be connected by aerogel, which has a thermal insulation effect, preventing heat transfer between cells and reducing heat accumulation during charging and discharging, thereby reducing the risk of thermal runaway. During charging and discharging, battery cells undergo expansion and contraction similar to "breathing," which can adversely affect their structure and performance. Aerogels, due to their low density and porous structure, can act as a buffer, effectively dispersing and absorbing the energy generated during cell expansion and contraction. This reduces the interaction forces between cells and protects them from damage to some extent. Aerogels can be, but are not limited to, silica aerogels, carbon-based aerogels, composite aerogels, and phase change thermal conductive adhesives. The appropriate aerogel can be selected based on the specific application and is not limited here.

[0085] The base 300 serves as the fundamental support structure for the entire energy storage system, bearing the weight of the system and providing a stable mounting platform for multiple cell packs 200. The base 300 can be a connecting platform, connecting frame, or other structure. The base 300's installation, to a certain extent, ensures the stability of the energy storage system during transportation and use.

[0086] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the energy storage system also includes a limiting structure 100 and a support 400. The limiting structure 100 can adopt the limiting structure of the above embodiment. The support 400 is disposed on the base 300 and is supported on the side of the limiting structure 100 facing away from the multiple cell groups 200.

[0087] The battery cell assembly 200 has at least one side provided with the aforementioned limiting structure 100, which is used to limit the battery cell assembly 200. This, to a certain extent, can prevent displacement or shaking of the battery cell assembly 200 during use and transportation. The limiting structure 100 includes at least two plates 110, arranged along a first direction D1. A connector is provided between adjacent plates 110. The connector 130 is connected to the adjacent plates 110 via a tenon and mortise structure 120. The connector 130 connects the adjacent plates 110 together via the tenon and mortise structure 120, making the connection between the plates 110 more stable and reliable, and achieving stable limiting of the battery cell assembly; or, the tenon and mortise structure 120 includes... The plate has a tenon 1221 on one side and a slot 1222 on the other side. Multiple slots 1222 of the plates are connected to the tenons 1221 of adjacent plates 110 via a mortise and tenon joint. At least two slots 1222 of the plates 110 are connected to the tenons 1221 of adjacent plates 110 in a mortise and tenon joint manner, forming a single unit. This achieves a stable connection between multiple plates 110 without the need for additional connectors 130, and provides stable positioning of the battery cell assembly. The mortise and tenon structure 120 not only facilitates assembly and connection but also improves the stability of the connection and facilitates daily installation and maintenance.

[0088] The limiting structure 100 can be directly installed on the side of multiple cell packs 200; or, it can be further connected and fixed to the base 300 by means of screws, welding, etc. By placing the limiting structure 100 on the side of the energy storage system, the space occupied by the limiting structure 100 can be reduced, allowing more space to be used for the installation of the cell packs 200. Within the same space, more cell packs 200 can be stacked, resulting in a larger cell capacity. Installing more cell packs 200 increases the proportion of the cell packs 200 in the overall energy storage system structure, reducing the overall space occupied by the energy storage system, improving the space utilization and system power of the energy storage system, and making the energy storage system more competitive in terms of power output. The first or second surface of any plate 110 is connected to the second or first surface of its adjacent plate 110 via a tenon and mortise structure 120. This allows for sufficient contact with the cell assembly 200 via the larger third and fourth surfaces, effectively limiting the cell assembly 200. Furthermore, the plates 110 arranged along the first direction only need to be connected sequentially along that direction during assembly, eliminating the need for complex positioning and alignment operations on other surfaces and further improving manufacturing efficiency and a compact structure. The limiting structure 100 is used to limit the cell assembly 200, and the bracket 400 provides support for the limiting structure 100, further ensuring stable limiting of the cell assembly, enhancing the overall structural stability of the energy storage system, optimizing spatial layout, and improving space utilization.

[0089] When the limiting structure 100 is equipped with a liquid cooling plate, cooling channel, or has further heat dissipation design, the operating temperature of the battery cell can be reduced, the service life of the energy storage system can be extended, and the stability of the equipment can be optimized.

[0090] The specific structure of the limiting structure 100 is as described in the above embodiments. Since this energy storage system adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0091] In some embodiments, the bracket 400 can be a tripod, an L-shaped bracket, or other structure. The bracket 400 is disposed on one side of the battery cell assembly 200 opposite to the limiting structure 100. One side of the bracket 400 is connected to the base 300 by means of bolts, welding, snap-fit, etc., and the other side of the bracket 400 is connected to the limiting structure 100 by means of bolts, welding, snap-fit, etc. The bracket 400 can be connected to some of the multiple plates 110 of the limiting structure 100, or the bracket 400 can be connected to all the plates 110 of the limiting structure 100. Taking bolt connection as an example, the plates 110 of the limiting structure 100 have one, two, three, or other multiple first connecting holes, and the bracket 400 has multiple second connecting holes arranged along the first direction D1. Bolts and other fasteners pass through the second connecting holes and the first connecting holes, so that the limiting structure 100 and the bracket 400 are connected and fixed. When multiple sets of first connecting holes are provided along the length of the plate, multiple sets of second connecting holes can be provided on the bracket 400 accordingly; or, multiple brackets 400 can be used to connect with the limiting structure 100.

[0092] The bracket 400 can be a one-piece structure to ensure the stability and durability of the connection; alternatively, the bracket 400 can include multiple connecting frames or other connection structures, which are connected and combined into one unit by means of snap-fit, welding, bolting, etc., so as to facilitate the replacement and adjustment of the bracket 400 size according to actual needs. The specific structure of the bracket 400 can be set according to actual needs, and is not limited here.

[0093] The plate 110 of the limiting structure 100 and the battery cell assembly 200 can be a one-to-one structure, a one-to-many structure, or a many-to-one structure.

[0094] As shown in Figure 12, in one embodiment, there are multiple plates 110, and at least two adjacent plates 110 arranged along a first direction are connected by a tenon and mortise structure 120. The positions of the multiple plates 110 correspond one-to-one with the positions of the multiple battery cell groups 200. That is, the position of one plate 110 corresponds to the position of one battery cell group 200.

[0095] Each plate 110 provides precise lateral support for each cell group 200 and limits the positioning of each cell group 200, which improves the stability and positional accuracy of the limiting structure 100 and, to some extent, also enables targeted heat dissipation for the corresponding cell group 200. Furthermore, the number of plates 110 can be flexibly adjusted according to actual power requirements and cell size to optimize adaptability; the overall structure is simple and easy to install and maintain.

[0096] In other embodiments, the position of each plate 110 corresponds to the position of an adjacent plurality of cell groups 200. For example, the position of one plate 110 corresponds to the position of two, three, or other adjacent cell groups 200; the positions of two plates 110 correspond to the positions of three adjacent cell groups 200, and so on. This arrangement can reduce the number of plates 110 and lower the manufacturing cost of the limiting structure 100.

[0097] In some other embodiments, the positions of adjacent plates 110 correspond to the positions of a battery cell assembly 200. For example, the positions of two, three, or other adjacent plates 110 correspond to the positions of a battery cell assembly 200; the positions of three adjacent plates 110 correspond to the positions of two adjacent battery cell assemblies 200, and so on. This arrangement can distribute the pressure on the battery cell assembly 200 by using multiple adjacent plates 110, thereby improving the reliability of limiting the position of the battery cell assembly 200.

[0098] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in addition to being arranged along the first direction D1, the multiple plates 110 can also be arranged along the second direction D2 or other directions. Adjacent plates 110 are connected by a tenon and mortise structure, or a connector can be provided between adjacent plates 110, which connects adjacent plates 110 together through a tenon and mortise structure or in other ways. This allows for an expansion of the area of ​​the limiting structure and further enables effective limiting of at least one side of multiple battery cell assemblies.

[0099] As shown in Figure 12, in one embodiment, an aerogel 140 is provided between the plate 110 and the battery cell assembly 200.

[0100] Aerogel 140 can prevent heat buildup between battery cells, thereby reducing the risk of thermal runaway. Due to its good buffering performance, it can also adapt to the expansion and contraction changes of the battery cell assembly 200 during charging and discharging, which are similar to "breathing". It plays a role in dispersing and absorbing energy, and protecting the battery cell assembly 200 from damage.

[0101] The aerogel 140 in the foregoing embodiments of this application can be, but is not limited to, silica aerogel, carbon-based aerogel, composite aerogel, or phase change thermal conductive adhesive. The appropriate aerogel 140 can be selected according to actual needs, and is not limited here.

[0102] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, in one embodiment, there are two limiting structures 100, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the battery cell assembly 200.

[0103] For example, the two limiting structures 100 include a first limiting structure 101 and a second limiting structure 102, which are respectively arranged on both sides of the plurality of battery cell groups 200. The number of plates 110 on both sides of the plurality of battery cell groups 200 may be the same or different. Two brackets 400 are provided accordingly, and the brackets 400 are supported on the side of the two limiting structures 100 facing away from the plurality of battery cell groups 200.

[0104] The double-sided clamping structure formed by the two limiting structures 100 provides stable support for the battery cell assembly and effectively limits its movement. By restricting the lateral displacement of multiple battery cell assemblies 200, the assemblies are arranged neatly, and displacement, shaking, or collision during use is prevented to some extent. Since the bottommost battery cell assembly 200 is fixed to the base 300 via aerogel and thermally conductive adhesive, the limiting structures 100 on both sides and the bracket 400 can lock the four degrees of freedom (up, down, left, and right) of the multiple battery cell assemblies 200, thus constraining all four degrees of freedom and improving the overall structural stability. Compared to the frame connection of multiple support plates through external connecting rods and the structure of an integral support for the energy storage system, setting limiting structures 100 on both sides of the cell pack 200 and connecting the limiting structures 100 and the base 300 through the bracket 400 can further optimize the stability of the energy storage system structure and facilitate installation and maintenance.

[0105] As shown in Figure 12, in one embodiment, the energy storage system includes a cooling plate 500 disposed between two limiting structures 100 and connected to multiple battery cell groups 200.

[0106] The cooling plate 500 helps prevent overheating and avoids safety hazards such as thermal runaway. The cooling plate 500 can be a heat-conducting plate, a liquid-cooled plate, or similar material. The heat-conducting plate effectively transfers the heat generated by the battery cell assembly 200 during charging and discharging. The liquid-cooled plate, through the layout of the cooling channels and the design of the fluid flow direction, can make the temperature distribution of the battery cell assembly 200 more uniform, improve its performance, and extend its service life.

[0107] The cooling plate 500 is connected to multiple battery cell groups 200 via thermally conductive adhesive 510. The thermally conductive adhesive 510 can be, but is not limited to, silicone thermally conductive adhesive, epoxy resin thermally conductive adhesive, or polyurethane thermally conductive adhesive. The appropriate thermally conductive adhesive can be selected according to actual needs, and is not limited here.

[0108] In some embodiments, the cooling plate 500 may include multiple cooling plate bodies arranged side by side and spliced ​​together. Adjacent cooling plate bodies are spliced ​​together by mortise and tenon joints, which allows for flexible adjustment of the size of the cooling plate 500 according to actual power requirements and cell size, thus optimizing adaptability. Specific implementations of the mortise and tenon joint splicing of the cooling plate bodies can be found in the aforementioned embodiment of the plate 110 of the limiting structure 100 being spliced ​​together by mortise and tenon joints, and will not be elaborated upon here.

[0109] As shown in Figure 12, in some other embodiments, the energy storage system also includes a top cover 600, which covers the uppermost cell assembly 200. This top cover 600 is used to prevent the intrusion of external moisture, dust, etc., and to protect the cell assembly 200.

[0110] In some embodiments, the specific installation process of the energy storage system of this application is as follows:

[0111] Each cell group 200 includes multiple cells stacked sequentially in a horizontal direction. Adjacent cells can be connected by aerogel, and multiple cells can be connected in series or parallel for storing and releasing electrical energy. Multiple cell groups 200 are stacked in a vertical direction, with the bottom cell group 200 fixed to the base 300 by aerogel, thermally conductive adhesive, etc., and at least one other cell group 200 is stacked sequentially from bottom to top.

[0112] The limiting structure 100 is used to limit the battery cell assembly 200. The limiting structure 100 includes at least two plates 110 arranged along the height direction, and two adjacent plates 110 are connected by a tenon and mortise structure 120.

[0113] The limiting structure 100 also includes a connector 130. When two adjacent plates 110 are connected by the connector 130, the connector has two first snap-fit ​​parts 1211 arranged opposite each other along the height direction. The connector 130 serves as an intermediate connecting structure. One of the two first snap-fit ​​parts 1211 is mortised and tenon-fitted with a second snap-fit ​​part 1212 on the upper plate 110 of the two adjacent plates 200, and the other first snap-fit ​​part 1211 is mortised and tenon-fitted with a second snap-fit ​​part 1212 on the lower plate 110 of the two adjacent plates. The connection of two adjacent plates 110 by the connector 130 facilitates connection. The connector 130 connects the adjacent plates 110 together through the mortise and tenon structure 120, making the connection between the plates 110 more stable and reliable. Multiple plates 110 are connected sequentially from bottom to top by the connector 130 to form an integral structure.

[0114] Alternatively, the mortise and tenon structure 120 may include a tenon 1221 on one side of the plate 110 and a groove 1222 on the other side of the plate 110. When the grooves 1222 of multiple plates 110 are connected to the tenons 1221 of adjacent plates 110 in the form of mortise and tenon joints, the multiple plates 110 are connected sequentially from bottom to top to form an integral structure.

[0115] The plate 110 of the limiting structure can be connected as a whole using any one or a combination of two of the aforementioned tenon and mortise structures or other mortise and tenon structures. In addition to being arranged along the first direction D1, multiple plates 110 can also be arranged along the second direction D2 or other directions. Adjacent plates 110 are connected by tenon and mortise structures, or connectors can be provided between adjacent plates 110, which connect adjacent plates 110 together through tenon and mortise structures or other methods. This allows for an increase in the area of ​​the limiting structure and further enables effective limiting of at least one side of multiple battery cell groups.

[0116] There are two limiting structures 100, which are respectively located on both sides of the cell assembly 200. An aerogel 140 is provided between the plate 110 of the limiting structure 100 and the cell assembly 200. The aerogel 140 can prevent heat accumulation between the cells and reduce the risk of thermal runaway. Due to its good buffering performance, it can also adapt to the expansion and contraction changes of the cell assembly during charging and discharging, which are similar to "breathing". It plays a role in dispersing and absorbing energy and protecting the cell assembly 200 from damage.

[0117] After the installation of the limiting structure 100 is completed, the mounting bracket 400 is installed. Two brackets 400 are provided, and the brackets 400 are supported on the side of the two limiting structures 100 facing away from the multiple battery cell groups 200. One side of the bracket 400 is connected to the base 300 by means of bolts, welding, snap-fit, etc., and the other side of the bracket 400 is connected to the plate 110 of the limiting structure 100 by means of bolts, welding, snap-fit, etc.

[0118] The double-sided clamping structure formed by the two limiting structures 100 can stably limit the position of the battery cell assembly 200, ensuring that multiple battery cell assemblies 200 are neatly arranged and preventing displacement, shaking, or collision during use to a certain extent. Since the bottommost battery cell assembly 200 is fixed to the base 300 via aerogel, thermally conductive adhesive, etc., the limiting structures 100 on both sides and the bracket 400 can lock the four degrees of freedom (up, down, left, and right) of the multiple battery cell assemblies 200, thus constraining all four degrees of freedom and improving the overall structural stability.

[0119] A cooling plate 500 is positioned between two limiting structures 100, and the cooling plate 500 is connected to multiple battery cell groups 200 via thermally conductive adhesive 510. A top cover 600 is placed on the uppermost battery cell group 200.

[0120] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of this application and does not limit the scope of protection. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the technical concept of this application and the contents of the specification and drawings of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the scope of protection.

Claims

1. A limiting structure, characterized in that, Used to limit the position of the battery cell assembly; the limiting structure includes at least two plates arranged along a first direction, with adjacent plates connected by a tenon and mortise structure; each plate has a first surface, a second surface, a third surface, and a fourth surface, the first surface and the second surface being arranged opposite each other along the first direction, the third surface and the fourth surface being arranged opposite each other between the first surface and the second surface, and the dimensions of the first surface and the second surface being smaller than the dimensions of the third surface and the fourth surface; the first surface or the second surface of any plate is connected to the second surface or the first surface of its adjacent plate through the tenon and mortise structure.

2. The limiting structure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The limiting structure also includes a connector, which is provided between two adjacent plates, and the connector is connected to the two adjacent plates through the tenon and mortise structure.

3. The limiting structure as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The mortise and tenon structure includes a first locking part and a second locking part. The first locking part is provided on the connector, and the second locking part is provided on at least one of the first surface and the second surface of the board. The connector has two first locking parts. One of the two first locking parts is mortised and tenoned with the second locking part of one of the adjacent boards, and the other is mortised and tenoned with the second locking part of the other of the adjacent boards.

4. The limiting structure as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The connector also includes a connecting body, with two first snap-fit ​​portions disposed opposite each other on both sides of the connecting body.

5. The limiting structure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The mortise and tenon structure includes a tenon on the first side of the board and a groove on the second side. The grooves of the multiple boards are connected to the tenons of adjacent boards in a mortise and tenon fit.

6. An energy storage system, characterized in that, include: A plurality of said battery cell groups stacked along a first direction; a limiting structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the limiting structure is provided on at least one side of said battery cell group; A base on which multiple battery cell assemblies are disposed; A bracket is disposed on the base, and the bracket supports the side of the limiting structure facing away from the plurality of battery cell groups.

7. The energy storage system as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The positions of the multiple plates correspond one-to-one with the positions of the multiple battery cell groups.

8. The energy storage system as described in claim 6, characterized in that, Aerogel is provided between the plate and the battery cell assembly.

9. The energy storage system as described in any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that, There are two limiting structures, which are respectively located on both sides of the battery cell assembly.

10. The energy storage system as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The energy storage system includes a cooling plate disposed between the two limiting structures and connected to the plurality of battery cell groups.

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