Batteries and vehicles

Abstract

A battery and a vehicle are disclosed. The battery includes a battery cell and a housing for housing the battery cell. The housing includes a first housing portion and two second housing portions located on both sides of the first housing portion in a first direction. The battery cell is disposed in the first housing portion and the second housing portion respectively. The first housing portion and the second housing portion together form a recess that extends through both ends in the first direction and opens in the second direction. The battery is adapted to be disposed at the bottom of the vehicle. The longitudinal beam of the vehicle's undercarriage is adapted to pass through in the first direction and be detachably installed in the recess in the second direction. The first direction and the second direction intersect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a battery and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, batteries are located at the bottom of the vehicle, below the longitudinal beams. To improve driving range, given the limited width and length of the vehicle, the height of the battery must be maximized, resulting in a relatively low ground clearance. This makes the battery susceptible to damage from bumps and knocks when there are uneven surfaces. Furthermore, during battery swapping, the swapping station needs to have pre-made trenches or the vehicle needs to be raised, leading to higher swapping costs. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a battery and a vehicle, wherein the battery's ground clearance can be increased.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a battery, comprising: a battery cell and a housing for housing the battery cell. The housing includes a first housing portion and two second housing portions located on both sides of the first housing portion in a first direction. The first housing portion and the second housing portion are respectively provided with battery cells. The first housing portion and the second housing portion together form a recess that extends through both ends in the first direction and opens in the second direction. The battery is adapted to be disposed at the bottom of a vehicle. The vehicle's underbody longitudinal beam is adapted to pass through in the first direction and be detachably installed in the recess in the second direction. The first direction and the second direction intersect.

[0005] In the above technical solution, a recess is formed by the first and second shell portions of the battery. This recess can extend along a first direction and open along a second direction, providing space for the vehicle's underbody longitudinal beams to pass through. This allows the battery to be easily and detachably installed on the underbody longitudinal beams along the second direction. This recess structure can be configured such that at least a portion of the second shell portion is higher than the bottom wall of the underbody longitudinal beam, located on the side of the beam. This allows for the use of space on both sides of the underbody longitudinal beams to accommodate more battery cells, increasing the battery's energy density. Alternatively, battery cells that would otherwise be located at the bottom of the battery can be moved to the sides of the underbody longitudinal beams, thereby increasing the battery's ground clearance. This ensures sufficient space between the bottom of the battery and the ground for battery swapping operations. Furthermore, the increased ground clearance reduces the risk of damage or scratches to the battery bottom due to ground protrusions, improving battery safety and lifespan. Therefore, by providing a recess at the top of the shell, the problem of low space utilization can be effectively solved, improving battery safety and reliability, and facilitating battery swapping design.

[0006] In some embodiments, the same end of each of the two second shell portions protrudes from the first shell portion along a second direction, forming a recess between the end wall of the first shell portion perpendicular to the second direction and the side walls of the two second shell portions facing the first shell portion. This structure can utilize the space on both sides of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam to accommodate more battery cells, thereby increasing the energy density of the battery. Alternatively, battery cells that would otherwise need to be placed at the bottom of the battery can be moved to the sides of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam, thereby increasing the battery's ground clearance.

[0007] In some embodiments, the end wall of the first housing facing the recess is adapted to be lower than the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam. This allows the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam to pass over the first housing, while space is reserved at the top of the first housing for mounting other structures of the vehicle or battery.

[0008] In some embodiments, a docking structure is provided within the recess, and the docking structure is adapted to extend between two longitudinal beams of the vehicle's underbody longitudinal beam. The docking structure is used to dock with the vehicle to achieve current conduction and / or fluid conduction. The docking structure being located within the recess not only prevents it from completely protruding from the top wall of the battery when facing upwards, thus avoiding increasing the overall height of the battery and allowing for more ample operational space under the vehicle during battery replacement, but also ensures that the docking structure of the vehicle and the docking structure of the battery can complete the docking action within the recess, making the docking safer.

[0009] In some embodiments, a docking structure is provided on the end wall of the first housing portion facing the recess. In these embodiments, a docking structure can be provided on the end wall of the first housing portion facing the recess, which facilitates the use of the space inside the recess to set up the docking structure. The docking structure at the vehicle end can be set accordingly, so that the docking of the battery and the vehicle can be sandwiched between the vehicle body and the battery housing without being exposed, which can enhance the protection of the docking structure and improve safety.

[0010] In some embodiments, the docking structure includes a housing, a docking body, and a connector. The housing is disposed on the end wall of the first shell portion facing the recess, the docking body is disposed inside the housing, and the connector is disposed outside the housing. The connector is connected to the docking body, and the docking body is connected to the current and / or liquid within the shell. Therefore, the docking structure is simple, easy to manufacture and install, and can effectively avoid occupying the space inside the shell for storing individual battery cells, thereby improving the energy density of the battery.

[0011] In some embodiments, the docking joint is adapted to dock vehicles in a first direction; or, the docking joint is adapted to dock vehicles in a second direction. This allows for flexible use of space, meets different docking requirements, and has a wide range of applications.

[0012] The connector can be aligned with the vehicle in a first direction, and the battery can move in a second direction to fit the recess into the vehicle's undercarriage longitudinal beam before moving back in the first direction to align the battery connector with the vehicle's connector. This eliminates the need for a large docking buffer space in the height direction. Alternatively, the connector can be configured to align with the vehicle in a second direction, allowing the battery to move in the second direction to fit the recess into the vehicle's undercarriage longitudinal beam while simultaneously aligning the battery connector with the vehicle's connector. This reduces the steps required to replace the battery at the vehicle end, improves efficiency, makes fuller use of the space at the vehicle's undercarriage longitudinal beam, and increases the battery's energy density.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first shell portion and the second shell portion are connected by a transition portion. Both the first shell portion and the second shell portion protrude from the transition portion along a second direction. The sidewall of the first shell portion facing the second shell portion, the end wall of the transition portion perpendicular to the second direction, and the sidewall of the second shell portion facing the first shell portion form a recess. In these embodiments, the recess structure can also be configured such that at least a portion of the second shell portion can be higher than the bottom wall of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam to be located on the lateral side of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam. This allows for the use of the space on both sides of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam to accommodate more battery cells, increasing the energy density of the battery. Alternatively, battery cells that would normally be located at the bottom of the battery can be moved to the sides of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam, thereby increasing the battery's ground clearance. This ensures sufficient space between the bottom of the battery and the ground for battery swapping operations. Furthermore, the increased ground clearance reduces the risk of damage or scratches to the battery bottom due to ground protrusions, improving battery safety and lifespan. Therefore, by setting a recessed section of this structure at the top of the housing, the problem of low space utilization can be effectively solved, which is conducive to improving the safety and reliability of the battery and to the design of battery swapping. Furthermore, the first housing can also be provided with a bottom wall that is at least partially higher than the longitudinal beam of the vehicle floor so that there can be more space inside the first housing for arranging battery cells and improving energy density.

[0014] In some embodiments, a docking structure is provided on the sidewall of the first housing perpendicular to the first direction. The docking structure is used to dock with a vehicle to achieve current conduction and / or liquid conduction. In these embodiments, the docking direction of the docking structure can be set to dock with the vehicle along the first direction, and the space superimposed between the docking structure and the battery cell in the second direction can be reduced, which is beneficial to making fuller use of the battery space along the second direction to improve energy density.

[0015] In some embodiments, the docking structure is adapted to be disposed at the end of the first housing portion near the recess along a second direction, such that at least a portion of the docking structure extends between two longitudinal beams of the vehicle undercarriage longitudinal beam. In these embodiments, the height of the docking structure at the vehicle end can be increased, making it less susceptible to impact from foreign objects or immersion in ground water during vehicle operation, thereby improving safety.

[0016] In some embodiments, a docking structure is provided on the end wall of the first housing portion perpendicular to the second direction and near the recess. This docking structure is adapted to dock along the first direction or the second direction, and is used to dock with a vehicle to achieve current conduction and / or liquid conduction. In these embodiments, the docking structure can be provided using the space of the first housing portion facing the beam side, and the docking structure at the vehicle end can be correspondingly provided, so that the docking between the battery and the vehicle can be sandwiched between the vehicle body and the battery casing without being exposed, which can enhance the protection of the docking structure and improve safety.

[0017] In some embodiments, the housing is provided with a mounting structure for detachably mounting the battery to the vehicle. This makes the battery removable relative to the vehicle, thereby meeting the needs for battery replacement, charging, and maintenance. It eliminates the need for a battery swapping frame, as found in related technologies, reducing the space occupied by the swapping frame and thus increasing the battery's volumetric energy density. Furthermore, eliminating the swapping frame reduces costs, lowers the overall vehicle load, and improves swapping efficiency.

[0018] In some embodiments, the mounting structure includes a plurality of sub-mounting portions, at least a portion of which is located within a recess. The recess protects the at least a portion of the sub-mounting portions from impact damage and prevents corrosion from splashed mud or water, thus avoiding problems such as the inability to replace the sub-mounting portions.

[0019] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions is located on the bottom wall of the recess, and / or, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions is located on the side wall of the recess. This allows for flexible design.

[0020] In some embodiments, the mounting structure includes a plurality of sub-mounting portions, at least a portion of which is located outside the recess. Thus, the sub-mounting portions located outside the recess are not limited by the space within the recess, allowing for flexible design both structurally and positionally.

[0021] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions is located on the end wall of the second housing portion near the recess along a second direction. This facilitates protection of the sub-mounting portions and improves the connection reliability of the battery.

[0022] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions is located on the end wall of the first housing portion near the recess along the second direction. This facilitates protection of the sub-mounting portions and improves the connection reliability of the battery.

[0023] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions is located on the surface of the second housing portion opposite to the first housing portion. This facilitates observation of whether the mounting is in place and also facilitates the machining of the sub-mounting portions.

[0024] In some embodiments, several of the multiple sub-mounting portions are located on a surface of the housing parallel to a first direction, and the multiple sub-mounting portions are spaced apart along the first direction. This helps to improve the dispersion and uniformity of force distribution, alleviate the problem of stress concentration in the sub-mounting portions, improve the connection reliability of each sub-mounting portion, and thus improve the installation stability and reliability of the battery.

[0025] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions is located on a surface of the housing perpendicular to a first direction. This allows for flexible design.

[0026] In some embodiments, several of the multiple sub-mounting portions are located on a surface of the housing perpendicular to the first direction, and the multiple sub-mounting portions are arranged at intervals along the parallel direction of the first housing portion and the second housing portion. This allows for full utilization of space, distributes the forces on the sub-mounting portions, and improves the connection reliability of the battery.

[0027] In some embodiments, along the second direction, the maximum dimension of the mounting structure is less than at least one of the maximum dimensions of the first housing portion and the second housing portion, so as to provide space for the battery cells.

[0028] In some embodiments, the portion of the housing that coincides with the projection of the mounting structure along the second direction houses a single battery cell. This allows for full utilization of space and increases the battery's energy density.

[0029] In some embodiments, a mounting groove is provided on the outer surface of the housing for mounting a mounting structure. Thus, by placing the mounting structure within the mounting groove, the mounting structure is protected, improving the reliability of the connection.

[0030] In some embodiments, the dimension L1 of the battery along a first direction is smaller than the dimension L2 of the battery along a third direction, where the first housing portion and the second housing portion are side by side. The relatively small size of a single battery reduces battery deformation and improves the success rate of battery assembly.

[0031] In some embodiments, compared to the end face of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam that is adapted to face away from the battery in the second direction, the second housing portion is adapted to face the end wall of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam in the second direction closer to the end wall of the second housing portion that is adapted to face away from the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam in the second direction. This can avoid bumps or unnecessary space occupation.

[0032] In some embodiments, the vertical height difference H between the top wall of the first housing and the top wall of the second housing satisfies the condition that H is less than or equal to 100 mm. This ensures that sufficient space is reserved above the top wall of the first housing to avoid the longitudinal beams under the vehicle, allowing the second housing to fully utilize the space on both sides of the longitudinal beams to improve the energy density of the battery and / or increase the battery's ground clearance.

[0033] In some embodiments, the top wall of the second housing is adapted to be higher than the height centerline of the vehicle's underbody longitudinal beam. This allows for full utilization of the space on both sides of the underbody longitudinal beam to accommodate battery cells, thereby increasing the battery's energy density.

[0034] In some embodiments, the top surface of the battery cell housed within the second housing is adapted to be higher than the height center of the vehicle's underbody longitudinal beam. This allows for full utilization of the space on both sides of the underbody longitudinal beam to accommodate the battery cell, thereby increasing the battery's energy density.

[0035] In some embodiments, the total height H4 of the battery cells housed in the second housing is greater than the total height H3 of the battery cells housed in the first housing. This allows the distribution of battery cells to make full use of the space within the housing, which is beneficial for increasing the energy density of the battery or for increasing the battery's height above the ground.

[0036] In some embodiments, the housing contains multiple battery cells, each including electrode terminals, and the electrode terminals of the multiple battery cells are oriented in the same direction. This improves assembly efficiency.

[0037] In some embodiments, the housing contains a plurality of battery cells, each battery cell including electrode terminals, and at least two of the battery cells have electrode terminals facing different directions. This allows for flexible arrangement.

[0038] In some embodiments, the orientation of the electrode terminals of the battery cell in the first housing is different from the orientation of the electrode terminals of the battery cell in the second housing.

[0039] In some embodiments, at least one layer of battery cells is placed in the first and second housings along the height direction of the battery. This facilitates improved battery assembly efficiency and simplifies electrical connections. Furthermore, by controlling parameters such as the number of layers or layer height, space can be fully utilized to increase the battery's energy density.

[0040] In some embodiments, along the height direction of the battery, the number of layers of battery cells placed in the first housing is less than or equal to the number of layers of battery cells placed in the second housing. This facilitates full utilization of space and improves the energy density of the battery.

[0041] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the single-layer battery cell in the first housing along the height direction are the same as the dimensions of the single-layer battery cell in the second housing along the height direction. This facilitates manufacturing, makes full use of space, and improves the energy density of the battery.

[0042] In some embodiments, the dimension of a single battery cell in the first housing layer along the height direction of the battery is smaller than the dimension of a single battery cell in the second housing layer along the height direction of the battery. This facilitates full utilization of space and improves the energy density of the battery.

[0043] In some embodiments, a battery module with at least one layer along the height direction of the battery is respectively placed in the first housing and the second housing. The battery module includes a plurality of battery cells arranged in a direction perpendicular to the height direction of the battery. By arranging the battery cells in groups, it is easier to improve the battery assembly efficiency and simplify electrical connections, etc.

[0044] In some embodiments, the number of battery module layers placed in the first housing is less than or equal to the number of battery module layers placed in the second housing. This facilitates full utilization of space and increases the energy density of the battery.

[0045] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the single-layer battery module in the first housing along the height direction are the same as those of the single-layer battery module in the second housing along the height direction. This facilitates manufacturing, makes full use of space, and improves the energy density of the battery.

[0046] In some embodiments, the dimension of the single-layer battery module in the first housing along the height direction of the battery is smaller than the dimension of the single-layer battery module in the second housing along the height direction of the battery. This facilitates full utilization of space and improves the energy density of the battery.

[0047] In some embodiments, a plurality of battery modules are placed in the housing, with some of the battery modules arranged side by side along a first direction, and / or, a plurality of battery modules are placed in the housing, with some of the battery modules arranged side by side along a second direction, the second direction being the direction in which the first housing portion and the second housing portion are arranged. This allows for flexible configuration and full utilization of space.

[0048] In some embodiments, the battery further includes a temperature regulating element, which is provided in both the first and second housing portions. This allows the battery cells in both the first and second housing portions to achieve temperature regulation, enabling the battery to operate at a suitable temperature, thereby improving battery reliability, lifespan, and energy efficiency.

[0049] In some embodiments, the temperature regulating element includes multiple elements, which are respectively disposed within the first housing and the second housing. This allows for sufficient temperature regulation.

[0050] In some embodiments, a temperature regulating element is provided between adjacent battery cells in adjacent layers along the height direction of the battery; or, a temperature regulating element is provided between adjacent battery modules in adjacent layers along the height direction of the battery. This allows for sufficient temperature regulation.

[0051] In some embodiments, the battery is the battery of the claims, and the number of temperature regulating elements provided in the first housing is less than or equal to the number of temperature regulating elements provided in the second housing. This optimizes space utilization, ensuring both the energy density of the battery and the temperature regulation effect.

[0052] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of temperature regulating elements are arranged parallel to the first direction, and / or at least another portion of the plurality of temperature regulating elements are arranged perpendicular to the first direction. This simplifies the arrangement of the temperature regulating elements, makes full use of space, and improves the temperature regulation effect.

[0053] In some embodiments, the first housing portion and the second housing portion share at least one temperature regulating element. This simplifies the design of the temperature regulating element.

[0054] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first housing and at least a portion of the second housing are integrally formed. This improves the connection reliability between the first and second housings, enhances the overall reliability of the battery, simplifies the assembly of the first and second housings, and increases battery assembly efficiency.

[0055] In some embodiments, the housing includes a body and a cover, the area of ​​the body being larger than the area of ​​the cover, the body being a single piece with an opening, and the cover being disposed on the opening. The body constitutes part of a first housing portion and part of a second housing portion. This can further improve the connection reliability between the first housing portion and the second housing portion, improve the overall reliability of the battery, and improve the assembly efficiency of the battery.

[0056] In some embodiments, the opening includes a first opening corresponding to a first shell portion and a second opening corresponding to a second shell portion, and the shell cover includes a first shell cover covering the first opening and a second shell cover covering the second opening. The first shell cover and the second shell cover are separate parts or an integral part. This facilitates assembly and processing, and provides good design flexibility.

[0057] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a vehicle including a chassis longitudinal beam and the aforementioned battery, wherein the chassis longitudinal beam extends into a recess, and the portion of the top wall of the housing other than the recess is higher than the lower end face of the chassis longitudinal beam.

[0058] In some embodiments, a plurality of batteries are disposed at the bottom of the vehicle, and the plurality of batteries can be individually replaced relative to the vehicle.

[0059] In some embodiments, the batteries are multiple and arranged longitudinally along the longitudinal beam of the vehicle floor, the unlocking position of the batteries is located on the longitudinal outer side of the batteries, and the gap between two adjacent batteries is more than 30mm.

[0060] In some embodiments, the vehicle is a large heavy truck, a tractor unit, or a small truck. Attached Figure Description

[0061] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0062] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0063] Figure 2 A perspective view of a battery provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0064] Figure 3 for Figure 2 An exploded view of the battery shown;

[0065] Figure 4 for Figure 2 The front view of the battery shown;

[0066] Figure 5 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the battery shown;

[0067] Figure 6 Exploded views of the battery and the longitudinal beam under the vehicle provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0068] Figure 7 Assembly drawings of the battery and the longitudinal beam of the vehicle undercarriage provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0069] Figure 8 for Figure 7 The main view showing the assembly of the battery with the longitudinal beams under the vehicle.

[0070] Figure 9 for Figure 7 The top view showing the assembly of the battery with the longitudinal beams under the vehicle.

[0071] Figure 10 for Figure 7 The side view showing the assembly of the battery with the longitudinal beams under the vehicle.

[0072] Figure 11 Top view of a battery provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0073] Figure 12 Internal schematic diagrams of a battery provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0074] Figure 13 Internal schematic diagrams of a battery provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0075] Figure 14 A perspective view of a battery provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0076] Figure 15 A perspective view of a battery provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0077] Figure 16 A perspective view of a battery provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0078] Figure 17 Assembly drawings of the battery and the longitudinal beam of the vehicle undercarriage provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0079] Figure 18 A perspective view of a battery provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0080] Figure 19 A perspective view of a battery provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0081] Figure 20 This is a plan view of a battery swapping station provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0082] Figure label:

[0083] Vehicle 1000; Battery 1; Recess 10; Bottom wall of the recess 10a; Side wall of the recess 10b; Battery layer 2; Battery module 3; Battery cell 4; Housing 5; First housing portion 51; First cavity portion 511; Second cavity portion 512; Second housing portion 52; Housing body 53; First opening 531; Second opening 532; Housing cover 54; First housing cover 541; Second housing cover 542; Transition portion 55; Mounting structure 6; Sub-mounting portion 61; Docking structure 7; Sub-docking portion 71; First sub-docking portion 71 a; Second sub-dock section 71b; Box body 72; Dock body 73; Connector 74; Temperature regulating plate 8; First regulating plate 81; Second regulating plate 82; Third regulating plate 83; Fourth regulating plate 84; Fifth regulating plate 85; Common horizontal plate 86; Undercarriage longitudinal beam 200; Longitudinal beam 201; Connecting structure 300; Front wheel 400; Rear wheel 500; Battery swapping station 2000; Battery swapping area 600; First area 601; Second area 602; Lateral Y; Longitudinal X; Vertical Z. Detailed Implementation

[0084] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0085] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0086] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0087] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0088] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0089] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0090] In this application, "multiple" means two or more (including two).

[0091] In this application, the battery cell may include lithium-ion secondary batteries, lithium-ion primary batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, or magnesium-ion batteries, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these. The battery cell may be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these. Battery cells are generally divided into three types according to their packaging method: cylindrical battery cells, square battery cells, and pouch battery cells, and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0092] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module comprising one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. The battery in the embodiments of this application includes a housing for encapsulating one or more battery cells or multiple battery modules. The housing can prevent liquids or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells.

[0093] In a battery, multiple battery cells can be connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof. A combination thereof means that multiple battery cells are connected in both series and parallel configurations. Multiple battery cells can be directly connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof, and then the entire assembly of these cells is housed within a casing. Alternatively, a battery can consist of multiple battery cells first connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof to form a battery module, and then these modules are connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof to form a single unit housed within a casing. Furthermore, a battery can include other structures, such as a busbar component, for electrical connection between the multiple battery cells.

[0094] A single battery cell includes a casing, electrode assembly, and electrolyte. The casing houses the electrode assembly and electrolyte. The electrode assembly consists of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. The battery cell primarily functions by the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrodes. The positive electrode includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer. The positive active material layer is coated on the surface of the positive current collector, and the uncoated positive current collector protrudes beyond the coated one, serving as the positive electrode tab. Taking a lithium-ion battery as an example, the positive current collector can be made of aluminum, and the positive active material can be lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, or lithium manganese oxide, etc. The negative electrode includes a negative current collector and a negative active material layer. The negative active material layer is coated on the surface of the negative current collector, and the uncoated negative current collector protrudes beyond the coated one, serving as the negative electrode tab. The negative electrode current collector can be made of copper, and the negative electrode active material can be carbon or silicon, etc. To ensure that a large current can be passed without melting, there are multiple positive electrode tabs stacked together, and there are multiple negative electrode tabs stacked together. In addition, the electrode assembly can be a wound structure or a stacked structure, and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0095] In recent years, new energy vehicles have experienced rapid development. In the field of electric vehicles, batteries, as the power source, play an irreplaceable and crucial role. As a core component of new energy vehicles, batteries have high requirements in terms of both safety and cycle life.

[0096] The inventors discovered that batteries are typically located at the bottom of vehicles, below the longitudinal beams. To increase driving range, given the limited width and length of the vehicle, the height of the battery must be maximized, resulting in a relatively low ground clearance. This makes the battery susceptible to damage from bumps and knocks when there are uneven surfaces. Furthermore, during battery swapping, the swapping station needs to have pre-installed trenches or the vehicle needs to be raised, leading to higher swapping costs.

[0097] Based on the above considerations, the inventors, after in-depth research, designed a battery that, by incorporating a recess at the top of the battery to avoid obstructing the vehicle's underbody longitudinal beams, can more effectively utilize the space on both sides of the beams to house individual battery cells, thereby increasing the battery's energy density. Alternatively, battery cells that would otherwise be located at the bottom of the battery can be moved to the sides of the beams, increasing the battery's ground clearance. This ensures sufficient space between the battery's bottom and the ground for battery swapping operations. Furthermore, the increased ground clearance reduces the risk of damage or scratches to the battery's bottom due to ground protrusions, improving battery safety and lifespan. Therefore, by incorporating a recess at the top of the casing, the problem of low space utilization can be effectively solved, improving battery safety and reliability, and facilitating battery swapping design.

[0098] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle 1000 provided in some embodiments of this application. The vehicle 1000 can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. The battery 1 can be used to power the vehicle 1000; for example, the battery 1 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000. The vehicle 1000 may also include a controller and a motor. The controller is used to control the battery 1 to supply power to the motor, for example, to meet the power needs of the vehicle 1000 during startup, navigation, and driving. In some embodiments of this application, the battery 1 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000 but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 1000, replacing or partially replacing gasoline or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.

[0099] like Figures 2-4As shown, the battery 1 includes a battery cell 4 and a housing 5 for housing the battery cell 4. The housing 5 includes a first housing portion 51 and two second housing portions 52 located on both sides of the first housing portion 51 in a first direction X. That is, the housing 5 includes a first housing portion 51 and two second housing portions 52, with one second housing portion 52 provided on each side of the first housing portion 51 in the first direction X. The battery cell 4 is respectively disposed inside the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52.

[0100] The first shell portion 51 and the second shell portion 52 together form a recess 10 that extends through both ends in the first direction X and opens in the second direction Z. The battery 1 is adapted to be disposed at the bottom of the vehicle 1000. The vehicle's underbody longitudinal beam 200 is adapted to pass through in the first direction X and be detachably installed in the recess 10 in the second direction Z. The first direction X and the second direction Z intersect.

[0101] In this article, "first direction X" refers to the length direction of vehicle 1000, or the front-to-back direction of vehicle 1000, or the longitudinal direction of vehicle 1000; "third direction Y" refers to the width direction of vehicle 1000, or the left-to-right direction of vehicle 1000, or the lateral direction of vehicle 1000; and "second direction Z" refers to the upward direction of the height direction of vehicle 1000.

[0102] In the above embodiments, the number and arrangement of the battery cells 4 housed in the first housing 51 are not limited; there can be one or more. If there are multiple battery cells 4, they can be grouped together or arranged individually. Similarly, the number and arrangement of the battery cells 4 housed in the second housing 52 are not limited; there can be one or more. If there are multiple battery cells 4, they can be grouped together or arranged individually.

[0103] It is worth noting that "the longitudinal beam 200 is installed in the recess 10" means that at least a portion of the longitudinal beam 200 extends into the recess 10, not that the entire longitudinal beam 200 is located within the recess 10. More specifically, the longitudinal beam 200 may have a section extending into the recess 10 in the longitudinal direction, and further, this section may extend partially or entirely into the recess 10 in the vertical direction.

[0104] According to the embodiment of this application, the battery 1 has a recess 10 on the top of the housing 5, which is suitable for avoiding the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle floor. This facilitates the top wall of the battery cell 4 housed in the second housing 52 being higher than the bottom surface of the longitudinal beam 200. This allows for more effective use of the space on both sides of the longitudinal beam 200 to accommodate the battery cell 4, increasing the energy density of the battery 1. Alternatively, battery cells 4 that would normally be located at the bottom of the battery 1 can be moved to the sides of the longitudinal beam 200, thereby increasing the ground clearance of the battery 1. This ensures sufficient space between the bottom of the battery 1 and the ground for battery swapping operations. Furthermore, the increased ground clearance reduces the risk of damage or scratches to the bottom of the battery 1 due to ground protrusions, improving the safety and lifespan of the battery 1. Therefore, by providing a recess 10 on the top of the housing 5, the problem of low space utilization can be effectively solved, improving the safety and reliability of the battery 1 and facilitating battery swapping design.

[0105] Specifically, in the embodiments of this application, the form of the recess 10 on the battery 1 is not limited. For example, two embodiments will be given later, but this application is not limited to the embodiments described later.

[0106] Example 1

[0107] like Figures 2-15 As shown, the same end of each of the two second shell portions 52 protrudes from the first shell portion 51 along the second direction Z, forming a recess 10 between the end wall of the first shell portion 51 perpendicular to the second direction Z and the side walls of the two second shell portions 52 facing the first shell portion. Therefore, the space on both sides of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200 can be used to house the battery cells 4, increasing the energy density of the battery 1. Alternatively, the battery cells 4, which would normally be located at the bottom of the battery 1, can be moved to the sides of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200, thereby increasing the ground clearance of the battery 1.

[0108] like Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, the end wall of the first housing portion 51 facing the recess 10 is adapted to be lower than the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200. This allows the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200 to pass over the first housing portion 51, while space is reserved at the top of the first housing portion 51 for mounting other structures of the vehicle 1000 or battery 1.

[0109] For example, when the battery 1 is installed in place with the vehicle 1000, no position on the top wall of the first housing 51 is higher than the bottom surface of the longitudinal beam 200. Therefore, the space above the top wall of the first housing 51 can be used to install other structural components, and the arrangement of the battery cells 4 within the first housing 51 can be simplified, which is beneficial for the design of power connection and temperature regulation for each battery cell 4 within the first housing 51.

[0110] like Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the battery 1 includes a docking structure 7 for docking with the vehicle 1000 to achieve current conduction and / or liquid conduction.

[0111] In the above embodiments, since the battery 1 includes the docking structure 7, it can achieve current conduction, liquid conduction, or both current conduction and liquid conduction with the vehicle 1000. For example, when the docking structure 7 achieves current conduction, current transfer can be realized between the vehicle 1000 and the battery 1, enabling the battery 1 to supply power to the vehicle 1000 and the vehicle 1000 to control the battery 1. For example, when the docking structure 7 achieves liquid conduction, heat transfer can be realized between the refrigerant system of the vehicle 1000 and the battery 1, thereby using the refrigerant system to regulate the temperature of the battery 1 to improve the operational reliability and safety of the battery 1, or the refrigerant system can absorb the waste heat of the battery 1 to meet the heat source requirements of the vehicle 1000's heat pump air conditioning system, etc., which will not be elaborated here.

[0112] For example Figures 2-4 As shown, the docking structure 7 is located within the recess 10, and is adapted to extend between the two longitudinal beams 201 of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200. The docking structure 7 being located within the recess 10 not only prevents it from protruding completely from the top wall of the battery 1 when facing upwards, thus increasing the overall height of the battery 1 and providing more ample operational space under the vehicle when replacing the battery 1; it also allows the docking structure of the vehicle 1000 and the docking structure 7 of the battery 1 to complete the docking action within the recess 10, making the docking safer.

[0113] Optionally, the docking structure 7 is disposed on the end wall of the first housing portion 51 facing the recess 10. For example, the docking structure 7 is disposed on the top wall of the first housing portion 51, with both longitudinal beams 201 extending into the recess 10, and the docking structure 7 extending into the space between the two longitudinal beams 201. This facilitates the use of the space within the recess 10 to accommodate the docking structure 7, and the docking structure at the vehicle end can be correspondingly configured, allowing the docking of the battery 1 and the vehicle 1000 to be sandwiched between the vehicle body and the battery casing without being exposed. This enhances the protection of the docking structure 7 and improves safety.

[0114] Since the docking structure 7 can utilize the space within the recess 10 and is located between the two longitudinal beams 201, it avoids occupying space outside the two longitudinal beams 201. This allows for full utilization of the space outside the two longitudinal beams 201 to accommodate the battery cells 4, which is beneficial for improving the energy density of the battery 1. Furthermore, because the docking structure 7 is located between the two longitudinal beams 201, its position is more concealed compared to placing it on the side or bottom of the battery 1. This provides protection from the two longitudinal beams 201 and the battery 1, preventing damage from impacts and improving the reliability of the docking. Moreover, during vehicle 1000 operation, splashed mud and water can be effectively prevented from contacting the docking structure 7, thus avoiding erosion and damage and preventing docking failure, thereby improving the reliability of the docking.

[0115] The docking structure 7 can be integrally located outside the first shell 51, thereby avoiding the docking structure 7 occupying the space inside the shell 5 for storing the battery cell 4 and improving the energy density of the battery 1.

[0116] For example Figures 3-5 As shown, the docking structure 7 includes a housing 72, a docking body 73, and a connector 74. The housing 72 is located on the end wall of the first shell portion 51 facing the recess 10. The docking body 73 is located inside the housing 72, and the connector 74 is located outside the housing 72. The connector 74 is connected to the docking body 73, and the docking body 73 is connected to the circuit and / or liquid circuit inside the housing 5. Therefore, the docking structure 7 is simple, easy to manufacture and install, and can effectively avoid occupying the space inside the housing 5 for storing the battery cell 4, thereby increasing the energy density of the battery 1.

[0117] In the above embodiments, the box body 72 may or may not have a bottom wall, depending on the actual situation. Furthermore, the top wall of the first shell portion 51, corresponding to the position of the box body 72, may be openwork or a solid structure, depending on the actual situation.

[0118] In the above embodiments, the configuration of the docking body 73 is not limited. When used to achieve liquid conduction, the docking body 73 may include a pipeline. It may also include a pipeline and a control valve, etc. When used to achieve current conduction, the docking body 73 may include an electrical wire, or it may include an electrical wire and a circuit board, etc., which will not be elaborated here.

[0119] The coupling 74 is suitable for docking vehicles along the second direction Z. For example, the coupling 74 is located on the top wall of the housing 72 and is suitable for vertical upward docking. Alternatively, the coupling 74 is suitable for docking vehicles along the first direction X. For example, the coupling 74 is located on the top or side wall of the housing 72 and is suitable for horizontal docking. Thus, space can be used flexibly to meet different docking requirements, and its application range is wide.

[0120] The connector 74 can dock with the vehicle along the first direction X. The battery 1 can move along the second direction Z to adapt the recess 10 to the longitudinal beam 200 under the vehicle, and then move along the first direction X to dock the connector 74 of the battery 1 with the connector of the vehicle 1000. This eliminates the need for a large docking buffer space in the height direction. Alternatively, the connector 74 can be configured to dock with the vehicle 1000 along the second direction Z. The battery 1 can move along the second direction Z to adapt the recess 10 to the longitudinal beam 200 under the vehicle, and at the same time, dock the connector 74 of the battery 1 with the connector of the vehicle. This reduces the steps required to replace the battery 1 to the vehicle end, improves efficiency, makes fuller use of the space at the longitudinal beam 200 under the vehicle, and increases the energy density of the battery 1.

[0121] For example, when installing battery 1 into vehicle 1000, if battery 1 locks to vehicle 1000 through upward movement, and if connector 74 is located on the top wall of housing 72 and suitable for vertical upward docking, the docking structure 7 can smoothly dock upwards when installing battery 1. When removing battery 1, pulling battery 1 downwards allows the docking structure 7 to smoothly disengage downwards, thus simplifying the battery swapping operation and improving the battery swapping efficiency. Furthermore, this docking method requires less movement space, saving space occupied by docking and contributing to increased energy density of battery 1.

[0122] For example, when installing battery 1 into vehicle 1000, if battery 1 is locked to vehicle 1000 by first moving upward and then moving horizontally (e.g., horizontally forward or backward), and if connector 74 is located on the top or side wall of housing 72 and is suitable for horizontal docking (e.g., horizontally forward or backward docking), when installing battery 1, if battery 1 is pushed upward and then horizontally, docking structure 7 can smoothly dock in the horizontal direction. When removing battery 1, the action is reversed, and docking structure 7 can smoothly disengage, thereby satisfying the battery swapping operation.

[0123] like Figure 11 As shown, the docking structure 7 can be located at the lateral center of the top of the first housing 51. Therefore, by laterally centering the docking structure 7, it facilitates the connection of the battery cells 4 or temperature regulating components 8 within the housing 5 to the docking structure 7, simplifies the connection path of the docking structure 7, saves space required for the connection path, and allows for the arrangement of more or larger battery cells 4 within the housing 5, thereby increasing the energy density of the battery 1. Furthermore, by laterally centering the docking structure 7, when the housing 5 has a mounting structure 6 for detachably installing the battery 1 to the vehicle 1000, it helps to center the center of gravity of the battery 1 laterally, resulting in a more uniform stress distribution on each mounting structure 6 on the battery 1, improving problems such as stress concentration in the mounting structure 6, and enhancing the reliability and stability of the connection between the battery 1 and the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle floor.

[0124] like Figure 11 As shown, the docking structure 7 is located at the longitudinal center of the top of the housing 5. Therefore, by centrally positioning the docking structure 7 longitudinally, it facilitates the connection between the battery cells 4 or temperature regulating components 8 within the housing 5 and the docking structure 7, simplifying the connection path of the docking structure 7, saving space required for the connection path, and allowing for the arrangement of more or larger battery cells 4 within the housing 5, thereby increasing the energy density of the battery 1. Furthermore, by centrally positioning the docking structure 7 longitudinally, when the housing 5 has a mounting structure 6 for detachably installing the battery 1 to the vehicle 1000, it helps to center the center of gravity of the battery 1 longitudinally, resulting in a more uniform stress distribution on each mounting structure 6 on the battery 1, improving problems such as stress concentration in the mounting structure 6, and enhancing the reliability and stability of the connection between the battery 1 and the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle floor.

[0125] Of course, this application is not limited to this. For example, the docking structure 7 can also be located at the top of the housing 5 at the end along the first direction X (e.g. Figure 14 (as shown), or, a mating structure 7 (e.g., as shown) can be provided on the end face of the housing 5 along the first direction X. Figure 15 As shown in the figure, this allows for the matching of docking requirements for different types of vehicles 1000.

[0126] It is worth noting that there is no necessary constraint relationship between the location of the docking structure 7 and its docking direction. For example, Figure 14 The docking structure 7 located on the top surface of the housing 5 shown can be configured to dock along the second direction Z, or it can be configured to dock along the first direction X; for example, Figure 15 The docking structure 7 located on the end face of the housing 5 shown can be configured to dock along the second direction Z or along the first direction X.

[0127] like Figure 11 As shown, the docking structure 7 includes multiple sub-dating portions 71, each sub-dating portion 71 corresponding to at least one docking connector 74. The multiple sub-dating portions 71 perform different docking functions. For example, one sub-dating portion 71 can be used to achieve current conduction between the battery 1 and the vehicle 1000, while another sub-dating portion 71 can be used to achieve liquid conduction between the battery 1 and the vehicle 1000, thereby enriching the docking function requirements between the battery 1 and the vehicle 1000.

[0128] Optionally, the docking directions of the multiple sub-docking parts 71 are the same. Therefore, by moving the battery 1 in one direction, the synchronous docking of the multiple sub-docking parts 71 can be completed, thereby simplifying the docking operation and improving docking efficiency. Moreover, this docking structure 7 is simple in structure and easy to manufacture.

[0129] For example, multiple sub-connecting portions 71 are spaced apart along the transverse and / or longitudinal direction of the housing 5. For example, the multiple sub-connecting portions 71 may be spaced apart laterally along the housing 5, but their positions in the longitudinal direction are almost identical. For another example, the multiple sub-connecting portions 71 may be spaced apart longitudinally along the housing 5, but their positions in the transverse direction are almost identical. For yet another example, the multiple sub-connecting portions 71 may be spaced apart both laterally and longitudinally along the housing 5.

[0130] Therefore, since the multiple sub-connecting parts 71 are spaced apart, it can be ensured that each sub-connecting part 71 does not interfere with each other during docking and can dock smoothly on its own. Moreover, by setting the multiple sub-connecting parts 71 to be spaced apart along the transverse and / or longitudinal direction of the housing 5, it is beneficial to ensure that the docking direction of the multiple sub-connecting parts 71 is the same. For example, whether docking upwards simultaneously or docking horizontally simultaneously, it can be satisfied well. In addition, since the multiple sub-connecting parts 71 are spaced apart along the transverse and / or longitudinal direction of the housing 5, the multiple sub-connecting parts 71 can meet the requirement of being spaced apart without being spaced apart vertically, thereby saving vertical space occupation and helping to ensure the ground clearance of the bottom of the battery 1.

[0131] Example 2

[0132] like Figures 16-18 As shown, the first shell portion 51 and the second shell portion 52 are connected by a transition portion 55. Both the first shell portion 51 and the second shell portion 52 protrude from the transition portion 55 along the second direction Z. The side wall of the first shell portion 51 facing the second shell portion 52, the end wall of the transition portion 55 perpendicular to the second direction Z, and the side wall of the second shell portion 52 facing the first shell portion 51 form a recess 10.

[0133] In the above technical solution, at least a portion of the second shell 52 can be positioned above the bottom wall of the longitudinal beam 200, located on the lateral side of the longitudinal beam 200. This allows for the use of space on both sides of the longitudinal beam 200 to accommodate more battery cells 4, increasing the energy density of the battery 1. Alternatively, battery cells 4 that would normally be located at the bottom of the battery 1 can be moved to the sides of the longitudinal beam 200, thereby increasing the ground clearance of the battery 1. This ensures sufficient space between the bottom of the battery 1 and the ground for battery swapping operations. Furthermore, the increased ground clearance reduces the risk of damage or scratches to the bottom of the battery 1 caused by ground protrusions, improving the safety and lifespan of the battery 1. Therefore, by providing a recess 10 with this structure at the top of the shell 5, the problem of low space utilization can be effectively solved, improving the safety and reliability of the battery 1 and facilitating battery swapping design. Additionally, the first shell 51 can also be positioned at least partially above the bottom wall of the longitudinal beam 200, allowing for more internal space within the first shell 51 to accommodate battery cells 4, thus increasing energy density.

[0134] like Figure 18 As shown, the first housing 51 has a docking structure 7 on its side wall perpendicular to the first direction X. The docking structure 7 is used to dock with a vehicle to achieve current conduction and / or liquid conduction.

[0135] In these embodiments, the docking direction of the docking structure 7 can be set to dock with the vehicle along the first direction X, and the space superimposed between the docking structure 7 and the battery cell 4 in the second direction Z can be reduced, which is beneficial to make fuller use of the space of the battery 1 along the second direction Z to improve energy density.

[0136] In the above embodiments, since the battery 1 includes the docking structure 7, it can achieve current conduction, liquid conduction, or both current conduction and liquid conduction with the vehicle 1000. For example, when the docking structure 7 achieves current conduction, current transfer can be realized between the vehicle 1000 and the battery 1, enabling the battery 1 to supply power to the vehicle 1000 and the vehicle 1000 to control the battery 1. For example, when the docking structure 7 achieves liquid conduction, heat transfer can be realized between the refrigerant system of the vehicle 1000 and the battery 1, thereby using the refrigerant system to regulate the temperature of the battery 1 to improve the operational reliability and safety of the battery 1, or the refrigerant system can absorb the waste heat of the battery 1 to meet the heat source requirements of the vehicle 1000's heat pump air conditioning system, etc., which will not be elaborated here.

[0137] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the docking structure 7 is adapted to be disposed at the end of the first housing portion 51 near the recess 10 along the second direction Z, so that at least part of the docking structure 7 extends between the two longitudinal beams 201 of the vehicle undercarriage longitudinal beam 200. This increases the height of the docking structure 7 at the vehicle end, making it less susceptible to impact from foreign objects or immersion in ground water during vehicle operation, thus improving safety.

[0138] Or, such as Figure 19 As shown, a docking structure 7 is provided on the end wall of the first shell portion 51 perpendicular to the second direction Z and close to the recess 10. The docking structure 7 is adapted to dock along the first direction X or along the second direction Z. The docking structure 7 is used to dock with the vehicle to achieve current conduction and / or liquid conduction. In these embodiments, the docking structure 7 can be provided in the space of the first shell portion 51 facing the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle bottom. The docking structure at the vehicle end can be provided accordingly, so that the docking of the battery 1 and the vehicle 1000 can be sandwiched between the vehicle body and the battery shell 5 without being exposed, which can enhance the protection of the docking structure 7 and improve safety.

[0139] In the above embodiments, since the battery 1 includes the docking structure 7, it can achieve current conduction, liquid conduction, or both current conduction and liquid conduction with the vehicle 1000. For example, when the docking structure 7 achieves current conduction, current transfer can be realized between the vehicle 1000 and the battery 1, enabling the battery 1 to supply power to the vehicle 1000 and the vehicle 1000 to control the battery 1. For example, when the docking structure 7 achieves liquid conduction, heat transfer can be realized between the refrigerant system of the vehicle 1000 and the battery 1, thereby using the refrigerant system to regulate the temperature of the battery 1 to improve the operational reliability and safety of the battery 1, or the refrigerant system can absorb the waste heat of the battery 1 to meet the heat source requirements of the vehicle 1000's heat pump air conditioning system, etc., which will not be elaborated here.

[0140] The above are examples of two forms of recess 10, but this application is not limited to these. Other optional embodiments of battery 1 according to the embodiments of this application are described below. The subsequent optional embodiments can be applied to both the above embodiment one and the above embodiment two, but are not limited to the application of the above two aspects of the embodiments.

[0141] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, the housing 5 is provided with a mounting structure 6, which is used to detachably mount the battery 1 to the vehicle 1000.

[0142] It should be noted that the mounting structure 6 is not limited in the way it is installed on the housing 5. It can be an integral part of the housing 5, or it can be a separate part of the housing 5 and be installed directly or indirectly on the housing 5. The position of the mounting structure 6 on the housing 5 is not limited. For example, it can be installed on the first housing part 51, or it can be installed on the second housing part 52. For example, it can be installed on the top, bottom, or side facing the recess 10 of the second housing part 52, etc.

[0143] Furthermore, it should be noted that the connection position between the mounting structure 6 and the vehicle 1000 is not limited. For example, it can be connected to the vehicle under longitudinal beam 200, such as at least one of the top, bottom, or side of the vehicle under longitudinal beam 200. Alternatively, it can be connected to other positions outside the vehicle under longitudinal beam 200.

[0144] In the above embodiments, since the mounting structure 6 detachably mounts the battery 1 to the vehicle 1000, the battery 1 is detachable from the vehicle 1000, thereby meeting the needs of battery 1 replacement, charging, maintenance, etc.

[0145] The batteries in the related technologies do not have an installation structure. When installing such batteries into a vehicle, the battery needs to be installed into a battery swapping frame that houses it, and then the battery swapping frame is locked onto the vehicle. Due to the introduction of the battery swapping frame, the required installation space is large, and with limited space under the vehicle, it is difficult to improve the volumetric energy density of the battery.

[0146] According to the embodiments of this application, the battery 1, by providing a mounting structure 6 on the casing 5 of the battery 1 that can be detachably connected to the vehicle 1000, can be installed onto the vehicle 1000 using the mounting structure 6, thereby eliminating the need for a battery swapping frame used to house the battery in related technologies, reducing the installation space occupied by the battery swapping frame, and thus increasing the volumetric energy density of the battery 1. Moreover, by eliminating the battery swapping frame, costs can be reduced, the overall vehicle load can be reduced, and battery swapping efficiency can be improved.

[0147] Furthermore, in related technologies, batteries are installed using a battery swapping frame. To ensure battery energy density, the battery swapping frame is positioned relatively low above the ground. When there are protrusions in the ground, the frame is easily impacted, causing damage to the battery. However, according to the embodiment of this application, the battery 1 eliminates the need for a battery swapping frame, thereby increasing the height of the battery 1 above the ground. This reduces the risk of the battery 1 being damaged by ground protrusions, improving the safety and lifespan of the battery 1.

[0148] Furthermore, eliminating the battery swapping frame increases the ground clearance of battery 1, facilitating battery swapping operations. In some cases, the battery swapping station 2000 can be used without digging a trench or raising vehicle 1000. In short, it eliminates the need for lifting the entire vehicle or digging trenches, thus simplifying the site layout of the battery swapping station 2000 and improving space utilization. Moreover, the design requirements for the battery swapping transport vehicle are reduced in terms of battery size and load-bearing capacity, lowering the design difficulty and cost of the transport vehicle.

[0149] In some embodiments, the mounting structure 6 includes a plurality of sub-mounting portions 61, at least a portion of which is located within the recess 10. Specifically, the specific location of the sub-mounting portions 61 within the recess 10 is not limited, and the recess 10 may be, but is not limited to, the recess 10 of Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 described above.

[0150] Since there are multiple sub-mounting parts 61, it is beneficial to improve the installation reliability of battery 1. Since at least some of the multiple sub-mounting parts 61 are located in the recess 10 and sandwiched between the recess 10 and the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle bottom, at least some of the sub-mounting parts 61 can be protected by the recess 10 to avoid damage from bumps and collisions, thereby improving the installation reliability of battery 1. Moreover, during the operation of vehicle 1000, it can prevent the occurrence of problems such as at least some of the sub-mounting parts 61 being corroded by splashed mud and water, which would make them unable to be replaced.

[0151] For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions 61 is located on the bottom wall 10a of the recess 10. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions 61 is located on the side wall 10b of the recess 10. In still other embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions 61 is located on both the bottom wall 10a and the side wall 10b of the recess 10.

[0152] Specifically, when the battery 1 is installed in the vehicle 1000, the bottom surface of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200 faces the bottom wall 10a of the recess 10, and the outer and / or inner surfaces of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200 face the side wall 10b of the recess 10. For example, in the first embodiment described above, the first shell portion 51 defines the side wall 10b of the recess 10, and in the second embodiment described above, the first shell portion 51 and the second shell portion 52 respectively define the side wall 10b of the recess 10.

[0153] When the sub-mounting part 61 is located on the side wall 10b of the recess 10, it can be sandwiched between the side wall 10b of the recess 10 and the side wall of the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle floor. Thus, by utilizing the space within the recess 10, the sub-mounting part 61 is protected by the recess 10, preventing damage from impacts and improving the installation reliability of the battery 1. Furthermore, because the sub-mounting part 61 is sandwiched between the side wall 10b of the recess 10 and the side wall of the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle floor, it can prevent corrosion from splashed mud and water during vehicle 1000 operation, thus avoiding problems such as the inability to replace it.

[0154] Furthermore, in related technologies, when a battery is installed using a battery swapping frame, multiple locking structures are provided on the outer periphery of the frame. These locking structures are located on the side of the battery furthest from the longitudinal beam of the vehicle floor, resulting in a large torque on the locking structures and low installation reliability. However, in the battery 1 according to this embodiment, the sub-mounting part 61 is located on the side wall of the recess 10, suitable for clamping between the side wall 10b of the recess 10 and the side wall of the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle floor. This means the sub-mounting part 61 is located on the side of the battery 1 closest to the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle floor, resulting in a smaller torque on the sub-mounting part 61 and higher installation reliability for the battery 1.

[0155] Furthermore, in related technologies, since the locking structure is located on the side of the battery away from the longitudinal beam of the vehicle floor, the distance between the locking structures on both sides of the longitudinal beam is relatively large, making it difficult to guarantee the relative positional accuracy of multiple locking structures. When replacing the battery, due to the low relative positional accuracy of multiple locking structures, it is difficult for multiple locking structures to quickly and accurately achieve their respective alignment, resulting in high battery replacement difficulty and low battery replacement efficiency. However, according to the embodiment of this application, since the sub-mounting part 61 of the battery 1 can be provided near the longitudinal beam of the vehicle floor 200, when both second shell parts 52 are provided with sub-mounting parts 61, the distance between the sub-mounting parts 61 on the two second shell parts 52 is relatively close. This can easily improve the relative positional accuracy of the sub-mounting parts 61 on both sides of the longitudinal beam 200, reduce the processing difficulty, and when replacing the battery 1, because the relative positional accuracy of the sub-mounting parts 61 on the two second shell parts 52 is high, the sub-mounting parts 61 on both sides can easily achieve their respective alignment, thereby reducing the battery replacement difficulty and improving the battery replacement efficiency.

[0156] In addition, by setting the sub-mounting part 61 on the side wall 10b of the recess 10, the sub-mounting part 61 can avoid occupying space in the height direction, increase the height of the battery 1 from the ground, ensure that there is enough space between the bottom of the battery 1 and the ground for battery swapping operations, and since the height of the battery 1 from the ground is increased, the risk of the bottom of the battery 1 being damaged or scratched due to ground protrusions can be reduced, thereby improving the safety and service life of the battery 1.

[0157] Furthermore, since the sub-mounting part 61 is provided on the side wall 10b of the recess 10, the force on the battery 1 at the sub-mounting part 61 can be close to shear stress, and the force on the battery 1 at the sub-mounting part 61 is basically tensile stress. Therefore, when the sub-mounting part 61 is provided on the side wall 10b of the recess 10, the installation reliability of the battery 1 can be improved.

[0158] When the sub-mounting part 61 is provided on the bottom wall 10a of the recess 10, the space occupied by the sub-mounting part 61 in the horizontal direction can be saved, and the space utilization rate of the battery 1 in the horizontal direction can be improved.

[0159] Of course, this application is not limited to this. In other embodiments of this application, when the mounting structure 6 includes a plurality of sub-mounting portions 61, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions 61 may be located outside the recess 10. Thus, the sub-mounting portions 61 located outside the recess 10 are not limited by the space within the recess 10, and can be flexibly designed both structurally and in terms of position.

[0160] For example, in some embodiments, at least one sub-mounting portion 61 located outside the recess 10 may be located on the end wall of the second housing portion 52 along the second direction Z near the recess 10. That is, the sub-mounting portion 61 may be provided on the top wall of the second housing portion 52, thereby ensuring that the sub-mounting portion 61 is positioned high, which is beneficial for protecting the sub-mounting portion 61 and improving the connection reliability of the battery 1.

[0161] For example, in some embodiments, when the recess 10 is in the form of Embodiment 2 described above, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions 61 may be located on the end wall of the first housing portion 51 along the second direction Z near the recess 10. That is, the top wall of the first housing portion 51 may be provided with the sub-mounting portion 61, thereby ensuring that the sub-mounting portion 61 is positioned high, which is beneficial for protecting the sub-mounting portion 61 and improving the connection reliability of the battery 1.

[0162] For example, in some embodiments, at least one sub-mounting portion 61 located outside the recess 10 may be located on the surface of the second housing portion 52 opposite to the first housing portion 51. That is, the sub-mounting portion 61 may be provided on the lateral outer side of the second housing portion 52, thereby facilitating observation of whether it is installed in place and facilitating the processing of the sub-mounting portion 61.

[0163] In some embodiments, several of the multiple sub-mounting portions 61 are located on the surface of the housing 5 parallel to the first direction X, and the multiple sub-mounting portions 6 are spaced apart along the first direction X. This improves the dispersion and uniformity of force distribution, alleviates stress concentration issues in the sub-mounting portions 61, enhances the connection reliability of each sub-mounting portion 61, and thus improves the installation stability and reliability of the battery 1. Furthermore, when the battery 1 is vertically lifted upwards to connect the multiple sub-mounting portions 61 to the vehicle 1000, the multiple sub-mounting portions 61 do not interfere with each other, allowing for flexible and diverse designs of the sub-mounting portion 61 structure.

[0164] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions 61 are located on the surface of the housing 5 perpendicular to the first direction X. For example, at least one sub-mounting portion 61 is provided on each of the longitudinal end faces of the housing 5. This reduces the space occupied in the lateral direction and improves the space utilization rate of the battery 1 in the lateral direction.

[0165] In some embodiments, a plurality of sub-mounting portions 61 located on the surface of the housing 5 perpendicular to the first direction X are arranged at intervals along the parallel direction of the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52. This allows for full utilization of space, distributes the forces on the sub-mounting portions 61, and improves the connection reliability of the battery 1.

[0166] In some embodiments, when the docking structure 7 is disposed on the top wall of the first shell portion 51 and the mounting structure 6 is disposed on the side wall of the second shell portion 52 facing the recess 10, the docking structure 7 and the mounting structure 6 are located on different side surfaces of the shell 5. Therefore, the arrangement of the docking structure 7 and the mounting structure 6 can utilize the different spatial positions of the shell 5, avoiding mutual interference. A greater number of docking structures 7 or mounting structures 6 can be arranged, allowing the docking structure 7 to flexibly choose its placement position according to its needs, and the mounting structure 6 to flexibly choose its placement position according to its needs, ensuring the functional requirements of both the docking structure 7 and the mounting structure 6.

[0167] It is worth noting that the specific location of the mounting structure 6 on the side wall of the second shell 52 facing the recess 10 is not limited. For example, in some alternative examples, the mounting structure 6 may be located on both transverse side walls 10b of the recess 10, or the mounting structure 6 may be located on only one of the two transverse side walls 10b of the recess 10.

[0168] In some embodiments, the docking structure 7 may be fixed relative to the housing 5, or its position relative to the housing 5 may be adjustable. Therefore, by adjusting the position of the docking structure 7, docking can be performed at different docking positions of the vehicle 1000, or with different vehicles 1000, making it highly versatile and applicable to a wide range of situations.

[0169] It should be noted that the adjustable position of the docking structure 7 relative to the housing 5 is not limited. For example, the housing 5 may have multiple first mounting positions, and the docking structure 7 may be installed in any of these positions. Alternatively, the housing 5 may have a first adjustment mechanism, and the docking structure 7 may be mounted on this mechanism, allowing its position to be adjusted through the drive of the first adjustment mechanism.

[0170] In some embodiments, the mounting structure 6 may be fixed relative to the housing 5, or its position relative to the housing 5 may be adjustable. Therefore, by adjusting the position of the mounting structure 6, it can be installed at different mounting locations on the vehicle 1000, or on different vehicles 1000, demonstrating strong versatility and wide applicability.

[0171] It should be noted that the adjustable position of the mounting structure 6 relative to the housing 5 is not limited. For example, the housing 5 may have multiple second mounting positions, and the mounting structure 6 can be installed in any of these positions. Alternatively, the housing 5 may have a second adjustment mechanism, and the mounting structure 6 may be mounted on this mechanism, allowing its position to be adjusted through the drive of the second adjustment mechanism.

[0172] In some embodiments, the mounting structure 6 is detachably connected to the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle floor. It should be noted that the connection method between the mounting structure 6 and the longitudinal beam 200 is not limited; it can be a direct connection to the portion of the longitudinal beam 200 facing the mounting structure 6, or an indirect connection to the connecting structure 300 on the longitudinal beam 200 facing the mounting structure 6. Therefore, since the mounting structure 6 is sandwiched between the second housing 52 and the side wall of the longitudinal beam 200, and is detachably connected to the longitudinal beam 200, the structure is simplified, connection is facilitated, and space is saved.

[0173] In some embodiments, along the second direction Z, the maximum dimension of the mounting structure 6 is smaller than at least one of the maximum dimensions of the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52. This allows for space within the housing 5 to accommodate the battery cell 4.

[0174] In some embodiments, such as Figure 12 As shown, the portion of the housing 5 that overlaps with the projection of the mounting structure 6 along the second direction Z houses the battery cell 4. For example, at least one battery cell 4 is located directly below the mounting structure 6, and when projected vertically, at least a portion of the projection of the mounting structure 6 overlaps with the projection of the battery cell 4 located below it. This allows for full utilization of space and increases the energy density of the battery 1.

[0175] In some embodiments, such as Figures 9-11 As shown, the unlocking position of the mounting structure 6 is located on the longitudinal outer side of the recess 10, for example, in front of or behind the recess 10. This allows for convenient unlocking and locking / observation. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for vertical drilling from the bottom of the battery 1, requiring the unlocking component to extend vertically into the hole to access the mounting structure 6 within the recess 10 for unlocking. This avoids obstructing the internal space of the battery 1 due to drilling, ensuring that the battery cell 4 can be located directly below the mounting structure 6 within the housing 5, thereby increasing the energy density of the battery 1.

[0176] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the inner cavity of the first housing 51 is divided into a first cavity 511 and two second cavities 512 located on both sides of the first cavity 511. The two second cavities 512 are located directly below the mounting structures 6 on both sides. The cavity height H31 of the first cavity 511 is the same as the cavity height H32 of the second cavity 512. That is, the cavity height H31 of the first cavity 511 used to accommodate the battery cell 4 is equal to the cavity height H32 of the second cavity 512 used to accommodate the battery cell 4.

[0177] Therefore, a portion of several battery cells 4 can be placed in the first cavity 511 and the remainder in the second cavity 512 as needed, so that the battery cells 4 are located in the housing 5 directly below the mounting structure 6, thereby making full use of the space inside the housing 5, setting up more battery cells 4, and increasing the energy density of the battery 1.

[0178] Of course, this application is not limited to this. In other embodiments of this application, even if the cavity height of the first cavity 511 is the same as the cavity height of the second cavity 512, the battery cell 4 may not be provided in the second cavity 512. For example, a temperature regulating element 8 or a battery cell 4 collection device may be provided in the position of the second cavity 512 to make full use of this part of the space.

[0179] In some embodiments, a mounting groove is provided on the outer surface of the housing 5 for mounting the mounting structure 6. Thus, by placing the mounting structure 6 within the mounting groove, the mounting structure 6 is protected, improving the reliability of the connection.

[0180] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the top wall of the first housing 51 is lower than the mounting structure 6. This avoids the mounting structure 6 being located in the gap between the side of the first housing 51 and the side of the second housing 52, thus ensuring that the mounting structure 6 has sufficient space for installation, facilitating the processing and design of the mounting structure 6, and making it easier to install and remove the mounting structure 6 from the vehicle 1000, reducing the alignment accuracy requirements.

[0181] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the top wall of the first shell 51 at the position where it connects with the second shell 52 is flush with the top wall of the first shell 51 at the position where it accommodates the battery cell 4.

[0182] Therefore, a portion of several battery cells 4 can be extended below the position where the first housing 51 is connected to the second housing 52 as needed, so that the battery cells 4 are located in the housing 5 directly below the mounting structure 6, thereby making full use of the space inside the housing 5, setting more battery cells 4, and increasing the energy density of the battery 1.

[0183] For example, alternatively, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the top wall of the first shell 51 is generally flat, which facilitates processing and design.

[0184] In some embodiments, the bottom wall of the first shell 51 is flush with the bottom wall of the second shell 52. Since the top wall of the second shell 52 is higher than the top wall of the first shell 51, it is easy to ensure that the height of the battery 1 receiving cavity in the second shell 52 is greater than the height of the battery 1 receiving cavity in the first shell 51, and it is easy to process, ensuring that the overall height of the battery 1 from the ground is consistent.

[0185] In some embodiments, the dimension L1 of the battery 1 along the first direction X is smaller than the dimension L2 of the battery 1 along the third direction Y, where the third direction Y is the direction in which the first shell portion 51 and the second shell portion 52 are arranged side by side.

[0186] In other words, the lateral dimension L2 of battery 1 is relatively large, while the longitudinal dimension L1 of battery 1 is relatively small. When the lateral dimension L2 of battery 1 cannot exceed the lateral width of vehicle 1000, the longitudinal dimension L1 of battery 1 can be guaranteed not to be too large, and the volume of battery 1 is relatively small. Since the size of a single battery 1 is relatively small, the deformation of battery 1 can be reduced, which is conducive to improving the assembly success rate of battery 1.

[0187] Furthermore, the number of sub-mounting parts 61 on each second housing 52 can be relatively reduced, for example, to 2-3, thereby reducing the stress on each sub-mounting part 61, ensuring the installation reliability of the battery 1, and making it easier to control the relative positional accuracy of multiple sub-mounting parts 61, making it easier to align and install each sub-mounting part 61 with the vehicle 1000, reducing installation difficulty and improving installation efficiency.

[0188] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, compared to the end face of the vehicle undercarriage longitudinal beam 200 that is adapted to face away from the battery 1 in the second direction Z, the end wall of the second housing portion 52 that is adapted to face the vehicle undercarriage longitudinal beam 200 in the second direction Z is closer to the end wall of the second housing portion 52 that is adapted to face away from the vehicle undercarriage longitudinal beam 200 in the second direction Z. That is, the upper end wall of the second housing portion 52 is lower than the upper end wall of the vehicle undercarriage longitudinal beam 200. This prevents the top of the battery 1 from being bumped and also avoids affecting the space on the vehicle undercarriage longitudinal beam 200 used for placing goods or other structures. Furthermore, when the end wall of the first housing portion 51 facing the recess 10 is lower than the vehicle undercarriage longitudinal beam 200, it is even more effective in avoiding affecting the space on the vehicle undercarriage longitudinal beam 200 used for placing goods or other structures.

[0189] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and Figure 8As shown, the height difference H2 between the top wall of the first shell 51 and the top wall of the second shell 52 in the second direction Z satisfies: H2 is less than or equal to 100mm. Therefore, by limiting the height difference H2, sufficient space is reserved above the top wall of the first shell 51 to avoid the vehicle undercarriage longitudinal beam 200. This allows the second shell 52 to fully utilize the space on both sides of the undercarriage longitudinal beam 200 to increase the energy density of the battery 1 and / or increase the ground clearance of the battery 1. Furthermore, when the docking structure 7 is installed on the top wall of the first shell 51, sufficient space is available above the first shell 51 to accommodate the docking structure 7.

[0190] In some embodiments, the top wall of the second housing 52 is higher than the height center of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200, thereby making full use of the space on both sides of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200 to arrange the battery cell 4 and improve the energy density of the battery 1.

[0191] In some embodiments, the top surface of the battery cell 4 contained in the second housing 52 (i.e. the top surface of the highest battery cell 4 in the second housing 52) is adapted to be higher than the height center of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200, so that the space on both sides of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200 can be fully utilized to arrange the battery cell 4 and improve the energy density of the battery 1.

[0192] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and Figure 12 As shown, the total height H4 of the battery cells 4 housed in the second shell 52 is greater than the total height H3 of the battery cells 4 housed in the first shell 51.

[0193] In the above embodiment, since the top wall of the second shell 52 is higher than the top wall of the first shell 51, it is relatively easy to make the height of the battery 1 receiving cavity in the second shell 52 greater than the height of the battery 1 receiving cavity in the first shell 51. Thus, the total height of the battery cells 4 contained in the second shell 52 is greater than the total height of the battery cells 4 contained in the first shell 51. This allows the distribution of the battery cells 4 to make full use of the space inside the shell 5, which is beneficial to improving the energy density of the battery 1 or increasing the height of the battery 1 above the ground.

[0194] In some embodiments, the housing 5 contains a plurality of battery cells 4, each battery cell 4 including electrode terminals, and the electrode terminals of the plurality of battery cells 4 are all oriented in the same direction. This can improve assembly efficiency.

[0195] In some embodiments, the housing 5 contains a plurality of battery cells 4, each battery cell 4 including electrode terminals, and at least two of the battery cells 4 have electrode terminals facing different directions. This allows for flexible arrangement.

[0196] For example, the orientation of the electrode terminals of the battery cell 4 in the first housing 51 is different from the orientation of the electrode terminals of the battery cell 4 in the second housing 52.

[0197] In some embodiments, a plurality of battery cells 4 are provided within the first housing 51. This allows for full utilization of space and increases the energy density of the battery 1. It is worth noting that the plurality of battery cells 4 within the first housing 51 can be arranged in groups or individually without being grouped. When arranged in groups, they can form one or more groups.

[0198] In some examples, all the battery cells 4 within the first housing 51 are arranged in the same way. That is, the length direction of each battery cell 4 within the first housing 51 is the same, the width direction of each battery cell 4 within the first housing 51 is the same, and the thickness direction of each battery cell 4 within the first housing 51 is the same.

[0199] For example, each battery cell 4 within the first housing 51 has a longitudinal direction in length, a transverse direction in width, and a vertical direction in thickness; or, for another example, each battery cell 4 within the first housing 51 has a longitudinal direction in length, a vertical direction in width, and a transverse direction in thickness; or, for yet another example, each battery cell 4 within the first housing 51 has a transverse direction in length, a longitudinal direction in width, and a vertical direction in thickness. Since there are many possible configurations, no further examples will be given here.

[0200] Alternatively, in some other examples, at least two battery cells 4 within the first housing 51 may be arranged differently. That is, at least one of the length direction, width direction, and thickness direction of the at least two battery cells 4 within the first housing 51 may be different.

[0201] For example, several battery cells 4 within the first housing 51 have a longitudinal direction in length, a transverse direction in width, and a vertical direction in thickness; simultaneously, several other battery cells 4 within the first housing 51 have a transverse direction in length, a longitudinal direction in width, and a vertical direction in thickness. Since there are many possible configurations, no further examples are given here.

[0202] This allows for flexible design of the battery cells 4 within the first housing 51, meeting various practical requirements.

[0203] In some embodiments, the second housing 52 contains a plurality of battery cells 4. This allows for full utilization of space and increases the energy density of the battery 1. It is worth noting that the plurality of battery cells 4 within the second housing 52 can be arranged in groups or individually without groups; when arranged in groups, they can form one or more groups.

[0204] In some examples, all the battery cells 4 within the second housing 52 are arranged in the same way. That is, the length direction of each battery cell 4 within the second housing 52 is the same, the width direction of each battery cell 4 within the second housing 52 is the same, and the thickness direction of each battery cell 4 within the second housing 52 is the same.

[0205] For example, each battery cell 4 within the second housing 52 has a longitudinal direction in its length, a transverse direction in its width, and a vertical direction in its thickness; or, for another example, each battery cell 4 within the second housing 52 has a longitudinal direction in its length, a vertical direction in its width, and a transverse direction in its thickness; or, for yet another example, each battery cell 4 within the second housing 52 has a transverse direction in its length, a longitudinal direction in its width, and a vertical direction in its thickness. Since there are many possible configurations, no further examples will be given here.

[0206] Alternatively, in some other examples, at least two battery cells 4 within the second housing 52 may be arranged differently. That is, at least one of the length direction, width direction, and thickness direction of the at least two battery cells 4 within the second housing 52 may differ.

[0207] For example, several battery cells 4 within the second housing 52 have a longitudinal direction in length, a transverse direction in width, and a vertical direction in thickness; simultaneously, several other battery cells 4 within the second housing 52 have a transverse direction in length, a longitudinal direction in width, and a vertical direction in thickness. Since there are many possible configurations, no further examples are given here.

[0208] This allows for flexible design of the battery cells 4 within the second housing 52, meeting various practical requirements.

[0209] In some embodiments, at least one battery cell 4 is partially located within the first housing portion 51, and the remainder is located within the second housing portion 52. That is, at least one battery cell 4 is not entirely located within either the first housing portion 51 or the second housing portion 52, but rather partially located within the first housing portion 51 and the remainder within the second housing portion 52. This allows for full utilization of the space at the junction of the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52, improving space utilization and increasing the energy density of the battery 1.

[0210] Of course, this application is not limited to this. For example, in other embodiments, there may not be a part of any battery cell 4 located in the first shell 51 and the rest located in the second shell 52. That is, the space at the connection position of the first shell 51 and the second shell 52 is not used by the battery cell 4. Thus, the first shell 51 and the second shell 52 can be separate parts, and there is no need to consider the communication problem between the first shell 51 and the second shell 52, which is beneficial to the modular combination of the shell 5.

[0211] In some embodiments, at least one layer of battery cells 4 along the height direction (e.g., the second direction Z) of the battery 1 is placed in the first housing 51 and the second housing 52 respectively. In this case, each layer of battery cells 4 is a battery layer 2, and the battery cells 4 are not arranged in groups. Therefore, by arranging the battery cells 4 in layers, the assembly efficiency of the battery 1 is improved, and electrical connections are simplified. Furthermore, since at least one layer of battery cells 4 along the height direction of the battery 1 is placed in the first housing 51 and the second housing 52 respectively, the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the second housing 52 can be easily and effectively ensured to be greater than the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the first housing 51 by controlling parameters such as the number of layers or layer height, or by combining battery layers 2 with different layer heights. This facilitates full utilization of space and increases the energy density of the battery 1. In addition, since multiple battery cells 4 are not arranged in groups, the number of fixing plates used for grouping can be reduced, thereby saving space and increasing the energy density of the battery 1.

[0212] In some embodiments, along the height direction of the battery 1, the number of battery cells 4 layers placed in the first housing 51 is less than or equal to the number of battery cells 4 layers placed in the second housing 52. The number of battery layers 2 in the second housing 52 is greater than the number of battery layers 2 in the first housing 51.

[0213] Therefore, when the height of each battery layer 2 in the second shell 52 is the same as or similar to the height of each battery layer 2 in the first shell 51, the total height of the battery cells 4 contained in the second shell 52 can be made greater than the total height of the battery cells 4 contained in the first shell 51 by controlling the number of layers, which is beneficial to make full use of space and improve the energy density of the battery 1.

[0214] In some embodiments, the dimensions of a single battery cell 4 in the first housing 51 along the height direction of the battery 1 are the same as the dimensions of a single battery cell 4 in the second housing 52 along the height direction of the battery 1. Therefore, since the height of each battery layer 2 in the second housing 52 is the same as the height of each battery layer 2 in the first housing 51, the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the second housing 52 can be easily increased to be greater than the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the first housing 51 by controlling the number of layers. This also facilitates the interchangeability of the battery cells 4 and reduces assembly difficulty.

[0215] In some embodiments, the dimension of a single battery cell 4 in the first shell 51 along the height direction of the battery 1 is smaller than the dimension of a single battery cell 4 in the second shell 52 along the height direction of the battery 1. Therefore, by controlling the number of layers, it is easy to make the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the second shell 52 greater than the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the first shell 51, thereby facilitating full utilization of space and increasing the energy density of the battery 1.

[0216] In some embodiments, at least one layer of battery module 3 along the height direction of battery 1 is placed in the first shell 51 and the second shell 52 respectively. The battery module 3 includes a plurality of battery cells 4 arranged in a direction perpendicular to the height direction of battery 1 (e.g., the second direction Z). In this case, each layer of battery module 3 is a battery layer 2, and the battery cells 4 are arranged in groups.

[0217] For example, multiple battery modules 3 can be arranged at the same height in a horizontal direction to form a battery layer 2. Alternatively, multiple battery modules 3 can be arranged sequentially in the horizontal direction, or sequentially in the vertical direction, or arranged in multiple rows and columns in both the horizontal and vertical directions. Furthermore, multiple battery modules 3 can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a mixed configuration.

[0218] Therefore, by arranging the battery cells 4 in groups, the assembly efficiency of the battery 1 is improved, and electrical connections are simplified. Furthermore, since the first housing 51 contains one or more vertically arranged battery layers 2, and the second housing 52 contains one or more vertically arranged battery layers 2, by controlling parameters such as the number of layers or layer height, or by combining battery layers 2 of different heights, it is simple and effective to ensure that the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the second housing 52 is greater than the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the first housing 51. This facilitates full utilization of space and increases the energy density of the battery 1.

[0219] In some embodiments, along the height direction of the battery 1, the number of layers of battery modules 3 placed in the first housing 51 is less than or equal to the number of layers of battery modules 3 placed in the second housing 52. For example... Figures 3-5 As shown, the number of battery layers 2 in the second shell 52 is greater than the number of battery layers 2 in the first shell 51.

[0220] Therefore, when the height of each battery layer 2 in the second shell 52 is the same as or similar to the height of each battery layer 2 in the first shell 51, the total height of the battery cells 4 contained in the second shell 52 can be made greater than the total height of the battery cells 4 contained in the first shell 51 by controlling the number of layers, which is beneficial to make full use of space and improve the energy density of the battery 1.

[0221] In some embodiments, the dimension of a single-layer battery module 3 in the first housing 51 along the height direction of the battery 1 is the same as the dimension of a single-layer battery module 3 in the second housing 52 along the height direction of the battery 1. Therefore, since the height of each battery layer 2 in the second housing 52 is the same as the height of each battery layer 2 in the first housing 51, the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the second housing 52 can be easily increased to be greater than the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the first housing 51 by controlling the number of layers. This also facilitates the interchangeability of the battery modules 3 and reduces assembly difficulty.

[0222] In some embodiments, the dimension of the single-layer battery module 3 in the first housing 51 along the height direction of the battery 1 is smaller than the dimension of the single-layer battery module 3 in the second housing 52 along the height direction of the battery 1. Therefore, by controlling the number of layers, it is easy to achieve a total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the second housing 52 that is greater than the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the first housing 51, thereby facilitating full utilization of space and increasing the energy density of the battery 1.

[0223] Specifically, the height of battery layer 2 refers to its vertical dimension, which is determined by the arrangement of the battery cells 4 / battery modules 3 included in battery layer 2. For example, when the length of battery cells 4 / battery modules 3 is arranged vertically, the length of battery cells 4 / battery modules 3 is the height of battery layer 2. As another example, when the thickness of battery cells 4 / battery modules 3 is arranged vertically, the thickness of battery cells 4 / battery modules 3 is the height of battery layer 2. As yet another example, when the width of battery cells 4 / battery modules 3 is arranged vertically, the width of battery cells 4 / battery modules 3 is the height of battery layer 2.

[0224] When the heights of the two battery layers 2 are different, there are several possible arrangements. For example, the battery cells 4 / modules 3 included in the two battery layers 2 can be arranged in the same way but with different specifications. For instance, both battery cells 4 / modules 3 may be vertical in length, horizontal in width, and vertical in thickness, but their thicknesses may differ. Alternatively, the battery cells 4 / modules 3 included in the two battery layers 2 can be arranged differently but with the same specifications. For instance, both battery cells 4 / modules 3 may have the same length, width, and height, but one battery cell 4 / module 3 may have a vertical length, while the other may have a vertical thickness, and so on.

[0225] For example, in some specific examples, such as Figures 3-5 As shown, the battery layer 2 in the first shell 51 is one layer, and the battery layer 2 in the second shell 52 is two layers. The height of the lower battery layer 2 in the second shell 52 is the same as the height of the battery layer 2 in the first shell 51 and is flush with it. The height of the upper battery layer 2 in the second shell 52 is greater than or equal to the height of the lower battery layer 2 in the second shell 52.

[0226] In the above embodiment, the height of the lower battery layer 2 in the second shell 52 is the same as and flush with the height of the battery layer 2 in the first shell 51, which means that the bottom surface of the lower battery layer 2 in the second shell 52 is flush with the bottom surface of the battery layer 2 in the first shell 51, and the top surface of the lower battery layer 2 in the second shell 52 is flush with the top surface of the battery layer 2 in the first shell 51.

[0227] Therefore, the space within the housing 5 can be fully utilized, simplifying the arrangement of the battery modules 3. For example, it allows for interchangeability between the battery modules 3 in the lower battery layer 2 within the second housing 52 and those in the battery layer 2 within the first housing 51. Furthermore, it effectively ensures that the total height of the battery cells 4 housed in the second housing 52 is greater than that housed in the first housing 51, thus facilitating full space utilization and increasing the energy density of the battery 1. Additionally, it ensures sufficient distance between the battery 1 and the ground, which is beneficial for battery swapping and protecting the battery 1 from impacts.

[0228] In some embodiments, a plurality of battery modules 3 are placed in the housing 5, with some of the battery modules 3 arranged side by side along a first direction X, and / or, a plurality of battery modules 3 are placed in the housing 5, with some of the battery modules 3 arranged side by side along a third direction Y, where the third direction Y is the direction in which the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52 are arranged. This allows for flexible arrangement and full utilization of space.

[0229] In some embodiments, the second housing 52 is provided with multiple battery layers 2, and the arrangement direction of multiple battery modules 3 in at least two battery layers 2 is perpendicular. For example, multiple battery modules 3 in at least one battery layer 2 in the second housing 52 are arranged sequentially in the horizontal direction, and multiple battery modules 3 in at least one other battery layer 2 in the second housing 52 are arranged sequentially in the vertical direction.

[0230] Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the second housing 52 may contain multiple battery layers 2, wherein the arrangement direction of the multiple battery modules 3 in each battery layer 2 is consistent. For example, the multiple battery modules 3 in each battery layer 2 within the second housing 52 may be arranged sequentially in a horizontal direction. Another example is that the multiple battery modules 3 in each battery layer 2 within the second housing 52 may be arranged sequentially in a vertical direction.

[0231] This allows for flexible arrangement of the battery modules 3 within the second housing 52, meeting various practical needs.

[0232] In some embodiments, a battery layer 2 is provided within the first housing portion 51, and the arrangement direction of the plurality of battery modules 3 in the battery layer 2 within the first housing portion 51 is consistent with the arrangement direction of the plurality of battery modules 3 in at least one battery layer 2 within the second housing portion 52. For example, the plurality of battery modules 3 in the battery layer 2 within the first housing portion 51 are arranged sequentially in a horizontal direction, and the plurality of battery modules 3 in at least one battery layer 2 within the second housing portion 52 are also arranged sequentially in a horizontal direction. As another example, the plurality of battery modules 3 in the battery layer 2 within the first housing portion 51 are arranged sequentially in a vertical direction, and the plurality of battery modules 3 in at least one battery layer 2 within the second housing portion 52 are also arranged sequentially in a vertical direction.

[0233] Alternatively, in some other embodiments, a battery layer 2 is provided within the first housing portion 51, and the arrangement direction of the plurality of battery modules 3 in the battery layer 2 within the first housing portion 51 is perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the plurality of battery modules 3 in at least one battery layer 2 within the second housing portion 52. For example, the plurality of battery modules 3 in the battery layer 2 within the first housing portion 51 are arranged sequentially in a horizontal direction, while the plurality of battery modules 3 in at least one battery layer 2 within the second housing portion 52 are arranged sequentially in a vertical direction. Yet another example is that the plurality of battery modules 3 in the battery layer 2 within the first housing portion 51 are arranged sequentially in a vertical direction, while the plurality of battery modules 3 in at least one battery layer 2 within the second housing portion 52 are arranged sequentially in a horizontal direction.

[0234] This allows for flexible arrangement of the battery modules 3 within the first housing 51 and the second housing 52, meeting different practical needs.

[0235] In some embodiments, a plurality of battery modules 3 in at least one battery layer 2 are arranged longitudinally, and each battery module 3 extends laterally along its length direction. This allows for full utilization of space, and the battery modules 3 are easily arranged to form the battery layer 2.

[0236] In some embodiments, a plurality of battery modules 3 in at least one battery layer 2 are arranged laterally, and each battery module 3 extends longitudinally along its length direction. This allows for full utilization of space, and the battery modules 3 are easily arranged to form the battery layer 2.

[0237] This allows for a flexible design of battery layer 2 to meet different practical needs.

[0238] In some embodiments, at least one battery module 3 includes a plurality of battery cells 4 arranged along one of the length direction, width direction, and thickness direction of the battery module 3.

[0239] For example, at least one battery module 3 may include a plurality of battery cells 4 arranged along the length of the battery module 3. Another example is that at least one battery module 3 may include a plurality of battery cells 4 arranged along the width of the battery module 3. Yet another example is that at least one battery module 3 may include a plurality of battery cells 4 arranged along the thickness of the battery module 3.

[0240] This allows for a flexible design of battery module 3 to meet different practical needs.

[0241] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 13As shown, the battery 1 includes a temperature regulating element 8, which is provided in both the first housing 51 and the second housing 52. Therefore, the battery cells 4 in the first housing 51 and the second housing 52 can both achieve temperature regulation, allowing the battery 1 to operate at a suitable temperature, thereby improving the reliability and lifespan of the battery 1 and increasing its energy efficiency.

[0242] In some embodiments, such as Figure 13 As shown, the temperature regulating element 8 includes multiple elements, which are respectively disposed within the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52. This allows for temperature regulation of the battery cell 4, enabling the battery 1 to operate at a suitable temperature, thereby improving the reliability and lifespan of the battery 1 and enhancing its energy efficiency.

[0243] For example, the temperature regulating component 8 includes at least one of a first regulating plate 81, a second regulating plate 82, a third regulating plate 83, a fourth regulating plate 84, and a fifth regulating plate 85. The first regulating plate 81 is disposed between two vertically adjacent battery layers 2, the second regulating plate 82 is disposed at the bottom of the bottom battery layer 2, the third regulating plate 83 is disposed at the top of the top battery layer 2, the fourth regulating plate 84 is disposed between two adjacent battery modules 3 in the same battery layer 2, and the fifth regulating plate 85 is disposed between two adjacent battery cells 4 in the same battery module 3. Thus, by equipping the temperature regulating component 8 with at least one form, the temperature of the battery cells 4 can be regulated, allowing the battery 1 to operate at a suitable temperature, thereby improving the reliability and lifespan of the battery 1 and increasing its energy efficiency.

[0244] In some embodiments, a temperature regulating element 8 is provided between two adjacent battery layers 2 along the height direction of the battery 1. Specifically, when the battery cells 4 are not arranged in groups, the temperature regulating element 8 is provided between adjacent battery cells 4 along the height direction of the battery 1; while when the battery cells 4 are arranged in groups, the temperature regulating element is provided between adjacent battery modules 3 along the height direction of the battery 1. This allows for sufficient temperature regulation of the battery cells 4, enabling the battery 1 to operate at a suitable temperature, improving the reliability and lifespan of the battery 1, and enhancing its energy efficiency.

[0245] In some embodiments, when the number of battery layers 2 in the first housing 51 is less than or equal to the number of battery layers 2 in the second housing 52, the number of temperature regulating members 8 provided in the first housing 51 is less than or equal to the number of temperature regulating members 8 provided in the second housing 52. This allows for efficient use of space, ensuring both the energy density of the battery 1 and the temperature regulation effect.

[0246] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of temperature regulating elements 8 are arranged parallel to the first direction X, and / or at least another portion of the plurality of temperature regulating elements 8 are arranged perpendicular to the first direction X. This simplifies the arrangement of the temperature regulating elements 8, makes full use of space, and improves the temperature regulation effect.

[0247] In some embodiments, the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52 share at least one temperature regulating element 8. For example... Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the temperature regulating component 8 includes a common horizontal plate 86, a portion of which is located within the first housing 51, and the remainder of which is located within the second housing 52. This simplifies the design and assembly of the temperature regulating component 8.

[0248] Furthermore, when the temperature regulating component 8 is provided with a liquid path, the temperature of the battery 1 can be adjusted by controlling the temperature of the liquid flowing in the liquid path. Since a part of the common horizontal plate 86 is located in the first housing 51 and the rest of the common horizontal plate 86 is located in the second housing 52, the design of the liquid path and the connection design of the liquid inlet and outlet can be simplified.

[0249] For example, combining Figure 2 The docking structure 7 may include at least one of a first sub-dock portion 71a and a second sub-dock portion 71b. The first sub-dock portion 71a docks with the vehicle 1000 to achieve current conduction, and the second sub-dock portion 71b docks with the vehicle 1000 to achieve liquid conduction. When the temperature regulating member 8 has a liquid path, the second sub-dock portion 71b can communicate with the liquid path, and the docking of the second sub-dock portion 71b with the vehicle 1000 can communicate with the refrigerant system of the vehicle 1000 to regulate the temperature of the battery 1 using the refrigerant system. For example, each sub-dock portion 71 corresponds to at least one connector 74, and the sub-dock portion 71 can dock with the vehicle 1000 through the connector 74.

[0250] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, at least a portion of the first housing portion 51 and at least a portion of the second housing portion 52 are integrally formed. This improves the connection reliability between the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52, enhances the overall reliability of the battery 1, simplifies the assembly of the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52, and increases the assembly efficiency of the battery 1.

[0251] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the housing 5 includes a housing body 53 and a housing cover 54. The area of ​​the housing body 53 is larger than the area of ​​the housing cover 54. The housing body 53 is a single piece and has an opening. The housing cover 54 is placed over the opening. The housing body 53 constitutes a part of the first housing portion 51 and a part of the second housing portion 52.

[0252] Therefore, during installation, the battery cell 4 can be inserted into the housing 53 through the opening, and then the opening can be sealed with the housing cover 54, which facilitates the assembly of the battery 1. Moreover, since the housing 53 is a single piece and its area is larger than that of the housing cover 54, the housing 53 constitutes part of the first housing portion 51 and part of the second housing portion 52, thereby further improving the connection reliability between the first housing portion 51 and the second housing portion 52, improving the overall reliability of the battery 1, and increasing the assembly efficiency of the battery 1.

[0253] Optionally, one of the mounting structure 6 and the docking structure 7 is located on the housing 53, and the other is located on the housing cover 54. For example, the mounting structure 6 is located on the housing 53, and the docking structure 7 is located on the housing cover 54; or, for another example, the mounting structure 6 is located on the housing cover 54, and the docking structure 7 is located on the housing 53. Alternatively, both the mounting structure 6 and the docking structure 7 may be located on the housing 53 or both may be located on the housing cover 54. For example, both the mounting structure 6 and the docking structure 7 may be located on the housing 53; or, for another example, both the mounting structure 6 and the docking structure 7 may be located on the housing cover 54.

[0254] For example Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, when the sidewall of the second shell portion 52 is defined by the shell body 53 and the top wall of the first shell portion 51 is defined by the shell cover 54, the mating structure 7 can be provided on the shell cover 54 and located on the bottom wall 10a of the recess 10, and the mounting structure 6 can be provided on the shell body 53 and located on the sidewall 10b of the recess 10.

[0255] Alternatively, for example, the sidewall of the second shell 52 and the top wall of the first shell 51 are both defined by the shell cover 54, the mating structure 7 can be provided on the shell cover 54 and located on the bottom wall 10a of the recess 10, and the mounting structure 6 can also be provided on the shell cover 54 and located on the sidewall 10b of the recess 10.

[0256] It should be noted that the structural shape of the shell 53 is not limited and can be designed according to the shape of the battery 1. The position and number of openings on the shell 53 are not limited and can be designed according to the actual situation. For example, the opening can be set on the longitudinal side, the vertical top side, the vertical bottom side, or the horizontal side of the shell 53. The shape and number of the shell cover 54 are also not limited and can be designed to match the openings. One opening can be provided with at least one shell cover 54.

[0257] For example, in some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the opening may include a first opening 531 corresponding to the first shell portion 51 and a second opening 532 corresponding to the second shell portion 52. The shell cover 54 includes a first shell cover 541 covering the first opening 531 and a second shell cover 542 covering the second opening 532. The first shell cover 541 and the second shell cover 542 are separate parts or an integral part.

[0258] Therefore, battery cells 4 can be inserted into the first housing 51 through the first opening 531, and into the second housing 52 through the second opening 532. When the first housing cover 541 and the second housing cover 542 are integrated, assembly efficiency can be improved, the sealing difficulty of the housing 5 can be reduced, and the sealing effect can be improved. When the first housing cover 541 and the second housing cover 542 are separate parts, that is, the first housing cover 541 and the second housing cover 542 are not integrated, the positions of the first housing cover 541 and the second housing cover 542 can be flexibly designed to meet different opening methods.

[0259] For example, in some embodiments of this application, the first opening 531 and the second opening 532 are both located on the top of the shell 53, and the first shell cover 541 and the second shell cover 542 are integral or separate parts and are located on the top of the shell 53, thus simplifying the design. Alternatively, one of the first opening 531 and the second opening 532 may be located on the top of the shell 53, and the other may be located on the longitudinal side of the shell 53, with the first shell cover 541 and the second shell cover 542 being separate parts and respectively covering the corresponding opening. Furthermore, the first opening 531 and the second opening 532 may both be located on the bottom of the shell 53, with the first shell cover 541 and the second shell cover 542 being integral or separate parts and covering the bottom of the shell 53, etc., which will not be elaborated here.

[0260] In some embodiments, the casing 5 of the battery 1 can be made of a high-strength material to ensure the reliable connection between the mounting structure 6 on the casing and the longitudinal beam 200 under the vehicle. For example, high-strength steel roll-formed profiles, etc.

[0261] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a vehicle 1000 according to an embodiment of the present application will be described.

[0262] like Figure 1 , Figures 6-10 As shown, the vehicle 1000 may include a chassis longitudinal beam 200 and a battery 1 according to any embodiment of this application. The chassis longitudinal beam 200 extends into the recess 10, and the portion of the top wall of the housing 5 other than the recess 10 is higher than the lower end surface of the chassis longitudinal beam 200.

[0263] Therefore, the space on both sides of the longitudinal beam 200 under the vehicle can be fully utilized, which is conducive to improving the energy density of the battery 1, increasing the ground clearance of the battery 1, preventing the bottom of the battery 1 from being bumped, and facilitating the battery swapping operation. This allows the battery swapping station 2000 to achieve battery swapping without digging a trench or raising the vehicle 1000.

[0264] For example, in some embodiments, when the battery 1 is detachably mounted to the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle 1000 via the mounting structure 6 on the battery 1, and the mounting structure 6 is located on the side of the battery 1 facing the longitudinal beam 200, the longitudinal beam 200 may have a connecting structure 300. The mounting structure 6 and the connecting structure 300 are detachably connected, and at least one of the mounting structure 6 and the connecting structure 300 is a locking structure. For example, the mounting structure 6 is a locking structure; another example is that the connecting structure 300 is a locking structure. Yet another example is that both the mounting structure 6 and the connecting structure 300 are locking structures.

[0265] The locking structure has a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the mounting structure 6 and the connecting structure 300 are locked and cannot be separated, and the battery 1 is securely installed. In the unlocked state, the mounting structure 6 and the connecting structure 300 are unlocked and can be separated, and the battery 1 can be removed from the vehicle 1000.

[0266] Therefore, by configuring at least one of the mounting structure 6 and the connecting structure 300 as a locking structure, it is beneficial to securely install the battery 1 and meet the requirements for battery 1 replacement. Specifically, the type of locking structure is not limited, and may include screws, padlocks, etc.

[0267] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 As shown, the unlocking position of the locking structure is located on the longitudinal outer side of battery 1. For example, the unlocking position is located in front of or behind battery 1, such as between two adjacent batteries 1 in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, since the unlocking position of the locking structure is located on the longitudinal outer side of battery 1, the unlocking position is not obstructed by battery 1, making it convenient to unlock and lock the locking structure for observation.

[0268] Furthermore, there is no need to drill a vertical hole from the bottom of battery 1 to allow the unlocking component to extend vertically into the hole and engage the locking structure for unlocking. This avoids occupying space inside battery 1 due to drilling, thereby increasing the energy density of battery 1. It also avoids the sealing difficulties caused by drilling, which is beneficial for the processing and design of battery 1.

[0269] For example, when there are multiple batteries 1, if the unlocking position of the locking structure is located on the longitudinal outer side of battery 1, the gap between two adjacent batteries 1 can be more than 30mm, which is conducive to unlocking.

[0270] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the longitudinal dimension L1 of battery 1 is smaller than the lateral dimension L2 of battery 1, indicating that the lateral dimension L2 of battery 1 is relatively large, while the longitudinal dimension L1 of battery 1 is relatively small. When the lateral dimension L2 of battery 1 cannot exceed the lateral width of vehicle 1000, the longitudinal dimension L1 of battery 1 can be ensured not to be too large, and the size of battery 1 is relatively small. This is beneficial to improving the installation reliability of battery 1 and facilitating its installation. For example, when there are 2-3 sub-mounting parts 61 on the same side wall and they are arranged longitudinally at intervals, the stress on each sub-mounting part 61 can be reduced, ensuring the installation reliability of battery 1. Moreover, since the size of a single battery 1 is relatively small, the deformation of battery 1 can be reduced, which is beneficial to improving the assembly success rate of battery 1.

[0271] Furthermore, when the size of battery 1 is small, such as Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown, multiple batteries 1 can be installed at the bottom of the vehicle 1000, and these batteries 1 can be individually swapped relative to the vehicle 1000. This allows for matching the appropriate number of batteries 1 according to different application scenarios, mileage, and vehicle 1000 configurations, improving the flexibility of battery swapping and ensuring compatibility with different vehicle models and application scenarios. Furthermore, since it eliminates the need to match a single battery pack to a specific vehicle model, the adaptability of the battery swapping station is improved, thereby reducing the number of swapping stations, increasing the distance between adjacent stations, and lowering investment costs.

[0272] For example, large heavy trucks can use six batteries¹, while tractor units only need three batteries¹, and small trucks only need two batteries¹. Range requirements also need to be considered; for example, a tractor unit using three batteries¹ can travel 300-500 kilometers, but if a range of 300-500 kilometers is not required, then using two batteries¹ or one battery¹ can be considered.

[0273] Furthermore, it eliminates the need to install all batteries 1 into the vehicle 1000, reducing the load on the vehicle 1000. Also, since each battery 1 can be replaced individually, batteries 1 that have been deeply discharged can be removed, avoiding the waste of battery power caused by replacing batteries 1 before they are fully discharged.

[0274] Furthermore, compared to a single large battery pack solution, when multiple relatively small batteries 1 are used in combination, the battery swapping efficiency is higher because it is not necessary to replace all batteries 1 each time. This can significantly improve the throughput of a battery swapping station 2000 in the same space.

[0275] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a battery swapping station 2000 according to an embodiment of this application will be described.

[0276] like Figure 20 The battery swapping station 2000 is used to replace the battery 1 of the vehicle 1000 according to any embodiment of this application.

[0277] In some embodiments, the battery swapping station 2000 includes a battery swapping area 600, and the vehicle 1000 is adapted to swap the battery 1 in the battery swapping area 600. The battery swapping area 600 includes a first area 601 and a second area 602. The first area 601 is adapted to be located directly below the battery 1, and the second area 602 is used to support the front wheel 400 and the rear wheel 500 adjacent to the battery 1. The first area 601 and the second area 602 are flush with the ground.

[0278] Since the bottom surface of the battery 1 can be raised above the ground according to some embodiments of this application, the battery swapping station 2000 can eliminate the need for lifting the entire vehicle or digging trenches, thereby simplifying the site layout of the battery swapping station 2000 and improving space utilization.

[0279] Optionally, the ground of the battery swapping area 600 is entirely flat, which reduces the construction difficulty of the battery swapping station 2000 and helps to reduce the construction cost of the battery swapping station 2000.

[0280] Below, a battery 1 according to a specific embodiment of this application and its application in a vehicle 1000 are described.

[0281] Referring to the attached drawings, multiple batteries 1 are installed on the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle 1000, arranged along the length of the longitudinal beam 200. Each battery 1 can be detached from the longitudinal beam 200. The top of the battery 1 has a recess 10 to accommodate the longitudinal beam 200, so that the battery 1 can utilize the space on both sides and below the longitudinal beam 200, ensuring the energy density of the battery 1 and increasing the ground clearance of the battery 1.

[0282] The battery 1 is configured with two battery layers 2 on both sides of the longitudinal beam 200 under the vehicle. Each battery layer 2 includes multiple battery modules 3 arranged side by side, and each battery module 3 includes multiple battery cells 4 arranged side by side, thus making full and effective use of the space on both sides of the longitudinal beam 200. A battery layer 2 is also configured below the longitudinal beam 200 under the battery 1. This battery layer 2 includes multiple battery modules 3 arranged side by side, and each battery module 3 includes multiple battery cells 4 arranged side by side. This fully utilizes the space below the longitudinal beam 200 while ensuring sufficient space between the bottom surface of the battery 1 and the ground. This prevents the bottom surface of the battery 1 from being scratched by the ground, effectively protecting the battery 1. Furthermore, it provides sufficient space for battery swapping, allowing the battery swapping station 2000 to be used without digging trenches or raising the vehicle 1000, simplifying the site layout of the battery swapping station 2000 and improving space utilization.

[0283] Specifically, mounting structures 6 are respectively provided on the two transverse sidewalls 10b of the recess 10. Each mounting structure 6 includes 2-3 sub-mounting parts 61 arranged longitudinally at intervals. Connecting structures 300 are provided on both sides of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200 corresponding to the positions of each mounting structure 6. One of the sub-mounting parts 61 and the connecting structure 300 is a mounting pin, and the other is a battery swapping lock. When swapping the battery 1, the battery 1 is pushed upward, and the mounting pin engages with the battery swapping lock, thus completing the installation of the battery 1 onto the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200. Since multiple batteries 1 are installed on the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam 200, and the size of each battery 1 is relatively small, it not only improves the installation reliability of each battery 1, but also facilitates the battery swapping design of each battery 1.

[0284] In related technologies, when installing batteries into vehicles, the battery pack is first pre-installed on the battery swapping frame, and then the entire battery swapping frame is fixed to the vehicle chassis. This installation method has the following main problems.

[0285] First, since the battery pack is pre-installed on the battery swapping frame, the entire battery swapping unit is very large and heavy. The battery swapping station that is paired with it needs to dig a trench or lift the vehicle. In addition, the battery swapping transport vehicle that is designed to be paired with it needs to be larger, more load-bearing, more complex in design, and more expensive.

[0286] In this embodiment, the battery 1 can be mounted on the longitudinal beam 200 under the vehicle via its own mounting structure 6, thus eliminating the need for a battery swapping frame, reducing battery swapping costs, and improving battery swapping efficiency. Furthermore, the battery 1's ground clearance can be increased, eliminating the need to lift the entire vehicle or dig trenches for the accompanying battery swapping transport vehicle, reducing the site configuration difficulty of the battery swapping station 2000. Moreover, the design complexity and cost of the accompanying battery swapping transport vehicle can also be reduced.

[0287] Secondly, the battery swapping lock attachment points on the battery swapping frame are all located on the outer peripheral wall of the frame. The span between multiple battery swapping lock attachment points is relatively large, resulting in significant deviations between them. This increases the locking time during battery swapping and reduces the success rate of battery swapping, thus limiting the efficiency of battery swapping. Furthermore, the battery swapping lock attachment points are subjected to a large torque, requiring extremely high strength from the quick-change lock, which leads to lower reliability of battery installation.

[0288] In this embodiment, the battery 1 can be mounted on the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle floor via its own mounting structure 6, with the mounting structure 6 facing the longitudinal beam 200. This reduces the deviation between the locking points, shortening the locking time during battery swapping and increasing the success rate of battery swapping, thus improving battery swapping efficiency. Furthermore, the mounting structure 6 bears a smaller torque, resulting in high installation reliability of the battery 1 and lower strength requirements for the mounting pin on the battery swapping lock.

[0289] Third, because the battery pack is integrated into a single unit, a larger battery swapping frame is needed to withstand the stress. As a result, the battery swapping frame occupies more space, which limits the capacity of the battery pack. This restricts the distance between battery swapping stations, increases the number of battery swapping stations, and increases costs.

[0290] In this embodiment of the application, the battery 1 can be installed on the longitudinal beam 200 of the vehicle bottom through its own mounting structure 6. Since the battery swapping frame is eliminated and multiple batteries 1 are set, the power capacity can be larger, the distance between the battery swapping stations 2000 is shortened, the number of battery swapping stations 2000 is reduced, and the cost is reduced.

[0291] Fourth, each vehicle model can only be equipped with one type of battery pack, and different application scenarios can only be matched with a single battery pack, resulting in low flexibility and poor compatibility in battery swapping.

[0292] In this embodiment of the application, the battery 1 is configured as multiple batteries, each of which is individually and detachably installed on the longitudinal beam 200 under the vehicle. This significantly improves compatibility and battery swapping flexibility. It also increases the adaptability and throughput of the battery swapping station 2000, reduces the number of battery swapping stations 2000, reduces the distance between battery swapping stations 2000, and lowers investment costs.

[0293] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other.

[0294] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A battery, characterized by, include: The battery cell and a housing for housing the battery cell are described. The housing includes a first housing portion and two second housing portions located on both sides of the first housing portion in a first direction. The battery cell is disposed within the first housing portion and the second housing portions, respectively. The first shell portion and the second shell portion together form a recess that extends through both ends along the first direction and opens along the second direction. The battery is adapted to be disposed at the bottom of the vehicle. The vehicle's underbody longitudinal beam is adapted to pass through along the first direction and be detachably installed in the recess along the second direction. The first direction and the second direction intersect. The same end of each of the two second shell portions protrudes from the first shell portion along the second direction to form the recess between the end wall of the first shell portion perpendicular to the second direction and the side walls of the two second shell portions facing the first shell portion. The recess is provided with a docking structure, and the docking structure is adapted to extend between the two longitudinal beams of the underbody longitudinal beam. The docking structure is used to dock with the vehicle to achieve current conduction and / or liquid conduction.

2. The battery of claim 1, wherein, The end wall of the first housing portion facing the recess is adapted to be lower than the longitudinal beam of the vehicle floor.

3. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The docking structure is disposed on the end wall of the first shell portion facing the recess.

4. The battery according to claim 3, characterized in that, The docking structure includes a housing, a docking body, and a connector. The housing is located on the end wall of the first shell portion facing the recess. The docking body is located inside the housing, and the connector is located outside the housing. The connector is connected to the docking body, and the docking body is connected to the circuit and / or liquid circuit within the housing.

5. The battery according to claim 4, characterized in that, The docking head is adapted to dock a vehicle in the first direction; or, the docking head is adapted to dock a vehicle in the second direction.

6. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first shell portion and the second shell portion are connected by a transition portion. Both the first shell portion and the second shell portion protrude from the transition portion along the second direction. The recess is formed by the side wall of the first shell portion facing the second shell portion, the end wall of the transition portion perpendicular to the second direction, and the side wall of the second shell portion facing the first shell portion.

7. The battery according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first shell portion has a docking structure on its side wall perpendicular to the first direction. The docking structure is used to dock with a vehicle to achieve current conduction and / or liquid conduction.

8. The battery according to claim 7, characterized in that, The docking structure is adapted to be disposed at the end of the first shell portion near the recess along the second direction, such that at least a portion of the docking structure extends between the two longitudinal beams of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam.

9. The battery according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first shell portion has a docking structure on its end wall perpendicular to the second direction and close to the recess. The docking structure is adapted to dock along the first direction or along the second direction. The docking structure is used to dock with a vehicle to achieve current conduction and / or liquid conduction.

10. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing is provided with a mounting structure for detachably mounting the battery to the vehicle.

11. The battery according to claim 10, characterized in that, The mounting structure includes a plurality of sub-mounting portions, at least a portion of which is located within the recess.

12. The battery according to claim 11, characterized in that, At least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions is located on the bottom wall of the recess, and / or at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions is located on the side wall of the recess.

13. The battery according to claim 10, characterized in that, The mounting structure includes a plurality of sub-mounting portions, at least a portion of which is located outside the recess.

14. The battery according to claim 13, characterized in that, At least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions are located on the end wall of the second housing portion near the recess along the second direction.

15. The battery according to claim 13, characterized in that, The recess is the recess of claim 9, and at least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions is located on the end wall of the first shell portion near the recess along the second direction.

16. The battery according to claim 13, characterized in that, At least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting portions are located on the surface of the second housing portion opposite to the first housing portion.

17. The battery according to claim 11, characterized in that, Several of the plurality of sub-mounting parts are located on the surface of the housing parallel to the first direction, and the plurality of sub-mounting parts are spaced apart along the first direction.

18. The battery according to claim 13, characterized in that, At least a portion of the plurality of sub-mounting parts are located on the surface of the housing perpendicular to the first direction.

19. The battery according to claim 18, characterized in that, Several of the plurality of sub-mounting parts are located on the surface of the housing perpendicular to the first direction, and the plurality of sub-mounting parts are arranged at intervals along the parallel direction of the first housing part and the second housing part.

20. The battery according to claim 10, characterized in that, Along the second direction, the maximum dimension of the mounting structure is less than at least one of the maximum dimensions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion.

21. The battery according to claim 20, characterized in that, The portion of the housing that overlaps with the projection of the mounting structure along the second direction contains a single battery cell.

22. The battery according to claim 20, characterized in that, The outer surface of the housing is provided with a mounting groove, which is used to install the mounting structure.

23. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dimension L1 of the battery along the first direction is smaller than the dimension L2 of the battery along a third direction, where the third direction is the direction in which the first shell portion and the second shell portion are side by side.

24. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, Compared to the end face of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam that is adapted to be away from the battery in the second direction, the second housing portion is adapted to be closer to the end wall of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam that is adapted to be away from the end wall of the vehicle underbody longitudinal beam in the second direction.

25. The battery according to claim 24, characterized in that, The height difference H2 between the top wall of the first shell and the top wall of the second shell in the second direction satisfies: H2 is less than or equal to 100mm.

26. The battery according to claim 24, characterized in that, The top wall of the second shell is adapted to be higher than the height centerline of the longitudinal beam of the vehicle floor.

27. The battery according to claim 26, characterized in that, The top surface of the battery cell housed in the second housing is adapted to be above the height center of the longitudinal beam under the vehicle.

28. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The total height H4 of the battery cells contained in the second shell is greater than the total height H3 of the battery cells contained in the first shell.

29. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing contains a plurality of battery cells, each battery cell including electrode terminals, and the electrode terminals of the plurality of battery cells are all oriented in the same direction.

30. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing contains a plurality of battery cells, each battery cell including electrode terminals, and at least two of the battery cells have electrode terminals facing different directions.

31. The battery according to claim 30, characterized in that, The orientation of the electrode terminals of the battery cell in the first housing is different from the orientation of the electrode terminals of the battery cell in the second housing.

32. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first and second shells each contain at least one layer of battery cells along the height direction of the battery.

33. The battery according to claim 32, characterized in that, The number of battery cells placed in the first housing is less than or equal to the number of battery cells placed in the second housing.

34. The battery according to claim 33, characterized in that, The dimensions of the single-layer battery cell in the first shell along the height direction are the same as the dimensions of the single-layer battery cell in the second shell along the height direction.

35. The battery according to claim 32, characterized in that, The dimension of the single-layer battery cell in the first housing portion along the height direction of the battery is smaller than the dimension of the single-layer battery cell in the second housing portion along the height direction of the battery.

36. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first housing and the second housing each contain at least one layer of battery modules along the height direction of the battery, and the battery modules include a plurality of battery cells arranged in a direction perpendicular to the height direction of the battery.

37. The battery according to claim 36, characterized in that, The number of battery module layers placed in the first housing is less than or equal to the number of battery module layers placed in the second housing.

38. The battery according to claim 37, characterized in that, The dimensions of the single-layer battery module in the first housing along the height direction are the same as those of the single-layer battery module in the second housing along the height direction.

39. The battery according to claim 36, characterized in that, The dimension of the single-layer battery module in the first housing portion along the height direction of the battery is smaller than the dimension of the single-layer battery module in the second housing portion along the height direction of the battery.

40. The battery according to claim 36, characterized in that, The housing contains multiple battery modules, some of which are arranged side-by-side along the first direction, and / or, the housing contains multiple battery modules, some of which are arranged side-by-side along a third direction, the third direction being the direction in which the first housing portion and the second housing portion are arranged.

41. The battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The battery also includes a temperature regulating component, which is provided in both the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

42. The battery according to claim 41, characterized in that, The temperature regulating element includes multiple elements, which are respectively disposed in the first shell and the second shell.

43. The battery according to claim 41, characterized in that, The battery is the battery of claim 34, wherein the temperature regulating member is provided between adjacent battery cells in the height direction of the battery; or, the battery is the battery of claim 38, wherein the temperature regulating member is provided between adjacent battery modules in the height direction of the battery.

44. The battery according to claim 41, characterized in that, The battery is the battery according to claim 35 or 39, wherein the number of temperature regulating elements provided in the first housing is less than or equal to the number of temperature regulating elements provided in the second housing.

45. The battery according to claim 42, characterized in that, At least a portion of the plurality of temperature regulating elements are arranged parallel to the first direction, and / or at least another portion of the plurality of temperature regulating elements are arranged perpendicular to the first direction.

46. ​​The battery according to claim 41, characterized in that, The first shell portion and the second shell portion share at least one of the temperature regulating elements.

47. The battery according to any one of claims 1-46, characterized in that, At least a portion of the first shell portion and at least a portion of the second shell portion are integral parts.

48. The battery according to claim 47, characterized in that, The housing includes a shell body and a shell cover. The area of ​​the shell body is larger than the area of ​​the shell cover. The shell body is a single piece and has an opening. The shell cover is disposed on the opening. The shell body constitutes a part of the first shell portion and a part of the second shell portion.

49. The battery according to claim 48, characterized in that, The opening includes a first opening corresponding to the first shell portion and a second opening corresponding to the second shell portion. The shell cover includes a first shell cover covering the first opening and a second shell cover covering the second opening. The first shell cover and the second shell cover are separate parts or an integral part.

50. A vehicle, characterized in that, The device includes a chassis longitudinal beam and a battery according to any one of claims 1-49, wherein the chassis longitudinal beam extends into the recess, and the portion of the top wall of the housing other than the recess is higher than the lower end face of the chassis longitudinal beam.

51. The vehicle according to claim 50, characterized in that, Multiple batteries are installed at the bottom of the vehicle, and each battery can be individually replaced relative to the vehicle.

52. The vehicle according to claim 50, characterized in that, The batteries are multiple and arranged longitudinally along the longitudinal beam of the vehicle floor. The unlocking position of the battery is located on the longitudinal outer side of the battery, and the gap between two adjacent batteries is more than 30mm.

53. The vehicle according to claim 50, characterized in that, The vehicle in question is a large heavy truck, a tractor unit, or a small truck.

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