A battery cell, a battery, and an electric device

Abstract

The application discloses a battery monomer, a battery and a power utilization device. The battery monomer comprises a shell, an electrode assembly and an insulating piece. The shell comprises a closed containing space. The electrode assembly is arranged in the containing space of the shell. The insulating piece is arranged between the electrode assembly and the shell. At least part of the insulating piece is a heat-conducting piece. In the application, at least part of the insulating piece is replaced by the heat-conducting piece, so that the heat generated by the electrode assembly can be conducted to the shell through the heat-conducting piece and then transmitted to the outside of the battery monomer. The timely heat transmission helps to prevent the heat from being transmitted back to the electrode assembly, so that the electrode assembly can work at a proper temperature and the performance of the battery monomer is improved.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Energy conservation and emission reduction are key to the sustainable development of the automotive industry, and electric vehicles, due to their energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages, have become an important component of this sustainable development. For electric vehicles, battery technology is a crucial factor in their development.

[0003] During charging and discharging, the internal structure of a battery generates a significant amount of heat, causing temperature fluctuations that affect various battery performance characteristics. Currently, insufficient heat dissipation within batteries often compromises their safety and lifespan. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of the above problems, this application provides a battery cell, a battery, and an electrical device to improve the heat dissipation capacity of the battery cell from its interior to the exterior, enabling the battery cell to operate at a suitable temperature and improving the battery's safety performance and lifespan. Specifically, this application includes the following technical solutions.

[0005] On one hand, this application discloses a battery cell, which includes a casing, an electrode assembly, and an insulating component. The casing includes a closed receiving space, the electrode assembly is disposed within the receiving space of the casing, and the insulating component is disposed between the electrode assembly and the casing; wherein, at least part of the insulating component is a heat-conducting component.

[0006] By replacing at least some of the insulating components with thermally conductive and insulating thermally conductive components, the heat generated by the electrode assembly can be conducted to the outside of the battery cell through the thermally conductive components, enabling the electrode assembly to operate at a suitable temperature and improving the performance of the battery cell.

[0007] In some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the heat-conducting element is 20 W / (m•K) or higher; optionally, the thermal conductivity of the heat-conducting element is 30-400 W / (m•K).

[0008] By using heat-conducting components with a thermal conductivity of 20 W / (m•K) or higher, the heat generated by the electrode assembly can be transferred to the outer casing in a timely manner. Using heat-conducting components with a thermal conductivity of 30-400 W / (m•K) allows for even more efficient and timely transfer of heat from the electrode assembly to the outer casing. Furthermore, heat-conducting components with a thermal conductivity below 400 W / (m•K) are easier to obtain and have lower costs.

[0009] In some embodiments, the thermally conductive element includes one or more of aluminum nitride, boron nitride, silicon carbide, zinc oxide, aluminum oxide, and magnesium oxide.

[0010] The above materials are selected to make the heat-conducting components, which have good thermal conductivity and insulation properties. Under normal battery operation, the heat-conducting components are not broken down by current, thus playing an insulating role. They can also transfer the heat generated by the electrode components to the outer casing in a timely manner.

[0011] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly includes a tab, the housing includes a cover plate, and a heat-conducting element is disposed between the end of the tab of the electrode assembly and the cover plate.

[0012] Placing the heat-conducting element between the end of the tab and the cover plate requires the least amount of heat-conducting material and provides the best heat transfer effect compared to placing the heat-conducting element at other locations on the electrode assembly.

[0013] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly includes a tab, the housing includes a cover plate, the battery cell includes an electrical connector configured to be electrically connected to the tab and the cover plate, and a heat-conducting element is disposed at a position corresponding to the electrical connector.

[0014] The heat-conducting component is placed at the position corresponding to the electrical connector, so that the large amount of heat generated by the electrical connector can be transferred to the cover plate in a timely manner through the heat-conducting component.

[0015] In some embodiments, all insulating components are thermally conductive.

[0016] By replacing the original insulating component with a heat-conducting component that has both insulating properties and good thermal conductivity, the contact area between the heat-conducting component and the electrical connector or tab, or the cover plate is larger, and the heat is transferred outward along the electrical connector or tab—heat-conducting component—cover plate at a faster speed.

[0017] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly includes tabs, the housing includes a cover plate, the battery cell includes an electrical connector configured to be electrically connected to the tabs and the cover plate, and the battery cell includes a heat insulation component disposed at a position corresponding to the electrical connector.

[0018] By placing the heat insulation component at the position corresponding to the electrical connector, the heat transfer from the electrical connector to other directions within the battery cell is reduced, allowing the heat to be transferred outward along the electrical connector-heat conductor-cover plate.

[0019] In some embodiments, a thermal insulation element is disposed between the electrode assembly and the electrical connector.

[0020] By placing a heat insulation component between the electrode assembly and the electrical connector, the heat transfer from the electrical connector to the electrode assembly body is reduced, keeping the internal temperature of the electrode assembly within a suitable range and improving the performance of the entire battery cell.

[0021] In some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the insulation element is 1 W / m•K or less; alternatively, the thermal conductivity of the insulation element is 0.1 W / m•K or less.

[0022] By installing a thermal insulation component with a thermal conductivity of less than 1 W / m•K, the heat transferred from the electrical connector to the body of the electrode assembly, excluding the tab, is reduced; by installing a thermal insulation component with a thermal conductivity of less than 0.1 W / m•K, the heat transferred from the electrical connector to the body of the electrode assembly, excluding the tab, can be further reduced.

[0023] In some embodiments, the insulation element includes one or more of ceramics, asbestos, rock wool, glass wool, aerogel felt, and vacuum panels.

[0024] The above materials are selected to make the heat insulation component, which has good heat insulation effect and insulation performance. Under the normal operation of the battery, the heat insulation component is not broken down by the current and plays an insulating role. It can also block the heat on the electrical connector from the body of the electrode assembly except for the tab, so that the electrode assembly can work at a suitable temperature and improve the performance of the battery cell.

[0025] In some embodiments, the housing includes a shell having an opening at at least one end, a cover for closing the opening of the shell, and a heat-conducting element disposed between the electrode assembly and the shell to enclose the electrode assembly.

[0026] The heat-conducting component is placed between the electrode assembly and the housing to enclose the electrode assembly, allowing the portion of the electrode assembly, except for the tabs, to be quickly transferred to the housing through the heat-conducting component. It also serves to prevent the tabs from being inserted into the electrode assembly.

[0027] On the other hand, this application provides a battery, including a battery cell.

[0028] The battery cell in this application can promptly conduct internal heat to the outside of the battery cell, making the performance of the battery cell more stable and improving the overall performance and lifespan of the battery.

[0029] On the other hand, this application provides an electrical device including a battery for providing electrical energy to the electrical device.

[0030] Because using the battery described in this application, which has better overall performance and lifespan, helps to improve the lifespan and performance of electrical devices. Attached Figure Description

[0031] In the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise specified, the same reference numerals throughout the various drawings denote the same or similar parts or elements. These drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. It should be understood that these drawings depict only some embodiments disclosed in this application and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrical device according to some embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of a battery according to some embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 3 This is an exploded structural diagram of a battery cell according to some embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 4 This is an exploded structural diagram of another battery cell according to some embodiments of this application;

[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a battery cell according to some embodiments of this application;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a cover plate and heat-conducting component structure according to some embodiments of this application;

[0038] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of another battery cell according to some embodiments of this application;

[0039] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another cover plate, insulating element and heat-conducting element according to some embodiments of this application.

[0040] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0041] 1. Electrical device; 2. Battery; 3. Controller; 4. Motor;

[0042] 21. Housing; 22. Battery cell; 211. First part; 212. Second part;

[0043] 30. Outer shell; 31. Cover plate; 32. Housing; 33. Receiving space; 311. Electrode terminal;

[0044] 40. Electrode assembly; 41. Tab; 411. End of tab;

[0045] 50. Insulating components; 51. Thermally conductive components; 60. Electrical connectors; 70. Thermal insulation components. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The embodiments of the technical solution of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solution of this application more clearly, and are therefore only examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0047] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0048] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features.

[0049] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0050] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0051] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0052] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0053] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0054] Currently, judging from market trends, the application of power batteries is becoming increasingly widespread. Power batteries are not only used in energy storage systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power plants, but also extensively used in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric cars, as well as in military equipment and aerospace. With the continuous expansion of power battery applications, market demand is also constantly increasing.

[0055] During charging and discharging, a large amount of current flows from the internal electrode assembly to the outer casing. However, an insulating component separates the casing from the electrode assembly, ensuring that only specific areas of the casing are charged, while other areas remain uncharged due to the insulation. To save cost, batteries often use plastics or rubber as insulation. While plastics and rubbers have good insulating properties, they have poor thermal conductivity. Unmodified ordinary plastics have very low thermal conductivity, typically around 0.2-0.46 W / (m·K), and rubbers also have low thermal conductivity. This prevents heat from the electrode assembly from being transferred to the outer casing in a timely manner, thus preventing it from escaping to the outside of the battery cells. The heat remaining inside the electrode assembly negatively impacts the safety performance and lifespan of the battery cells.

[0056] Because the electrode assembly and the housing have insulating components with poor thermal conductivity, which affect heat transfer, this application replaces at least part of the insulating components with thermally conductive components. The thermally conductive components have both insulating properties and good thermal conductivity, so that the heat generated by the electrode assembly can be directly transferred to the housing through the thermally conductive components.

[0057] Replacing at least some of the insulating components with thermally conductive and insulating thermally conductive components allows the heat generated by the electrode assembly to be conducted to the outer casing through the thermally conductive components and then to the outside of the battery cell. This helps to transfer heat outward in a timely manner, preventing heat from being transferred back into the electrode assembly, allowing the electrode assembly to operate at a suitable temperature, and improving the safety performance and service life of the battery cell.

[0058] The battery cells disclosed in this application can be used in batteries.

[0059] This application provides an electrical device that uses a battery as a power source. The electrical device can be, but is not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, electric toys, power tools, electric vehicles, electric cars, ships, spacecraft, etc. Electric toys can include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Spacecraft can include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc.

[0060] For ease of explanation, the following embodiments will be described using an electrical device 1 according to an embodiment of this application as an example.

[0061] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrical device 1 according to some embodiments of this application. The electrical device 1 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 2 can serve not only as the operating power source for the electrical device 1 but also as the driving power source, replacing or partially replacing gasoline or natural gas to provide driving power for the electrical device 1. When the battery 2 is used as the driving power source, it can be located at the bottom, head, or tail of the electrical device 1. The controller 3 is used to control the battery 2 to supply power to the motor 4, which drives the wheels.

[0062] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of battery 2 according to some embodiments of this application. Battery 2 may include a housing 21, battery cells 22, and other components, with battery cells 22 and other components housed within the housing 21.

[0063] The housing 21 can adopt various structures. In some embodiments, the housing 21 may include a first part 211 and a second part 212, which overlap each other, and together define an accommodating space 33. Optionally, the first part 211 and the second part 212 may both be hollow structures with an opening on one side, with the opening side of the first part 211 overlapping the opening side of the second part 212. Optionally, the second part 212 may also be a hollow structure with an opening at one end, and the first part 211 may be a plate-like structure, overlapping the opening side of the second part 212. The housing 21 can be of various shapes, such as a cylinder, a cuboid, etc.

[0064] There can be multiple battery cells 22. These multiple battery cells 22 can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a combination of series and parallel connections within the housing 21 to form a battery 2 with a certain capacity and voltage. Alternatively, multiple battery cells 22 can be directly connected in series, in parallel, or in a combination of connections, and then the entire assembly of the multiple battery cells 22 can be housed within the housing 21.

[0065] The battery 2 may also include other components. For example, the battery 2 may also include a busbar component for electrical connection between multiple battery cells 22, such as in parallel, series, or mixed connections. The battery 2 may include a thermal management component, which can be disposed inside the housing 21 to directly exchange heat with the battery cells 22. Specifically, it can be disposed at the top of the battery cells 22, between the battery cells 22, between the battery cells 22 and the side wall of the housing 21, or at the bottom of the battery cells 22 to regulate the temperature of the battery 2. The thermal management component can also be disposed directly outside the housing 21 to exchange heat with the housing 21, and then exchange heat with the battery cells 22 inside the housing 21.

[0066] This application discloses a battery cell 22, see [link to previous document]. Figure 3 , 5 The battery cell 22 includes a housing 30, an electrode assembly 40, and an insulating element 50. The housing 30 includes a closed receiving space 33. The electrode assembly 40 is disposed within the receiving space 33 of the housing 30, and the insulating element 50 is disposed between the electrode assembly 40 and the housing 30. At least a portion of the insulating element 50 is a heat-conducting element 51.

[0067] The outer casing 30 is located outside the battery cell 22 and is used to protect other components inside the battery cell 22 from external influences, such as preventing direct impact or scratches from external forces. The outer casing 30 forms an inward-facing receiving space 33 to house other components inside the battery cell 22, such as electrolyte. The outer casing 30 can be composed of multiple connected components, and it is sealed to prevent electrolyte leakage from the receiving space 33. The outer casing 30 can be square, like a square-shell battery cell 22; cylindrical, like a cylindrical battery cell 22; or pouch-shaped, like a pouch battery cell 22. The shape of the outer casing 30 is mainly determined by the internal components and the working environment. The material of the outer casing 30 can be metals such as copper, iron, and aluminum; alloys such as aluminum alloys and steel; composite materials such as plastics and carbon fiber; or other metallic and non-metallic materials that meet performance requirements.

[0068] The housing 30 includes electrode terminals 311, which are the main live parts on the housing 30. Non-conductive components may be provided between the electrode terminals 311 and other components of the housing 30, so that the components of the housing 30 other than the electrode terminals 311 are not live.

[0069] Electrode assembly 40 is the component in the battery cell 22 where the electrochemical reaction occurs; it can also be called a cell assembly. The casing may contain one or more electrode assemblies 40. The electrode assembly 40 is generally not directly connected to the casing 30. There may be non-conductive structures between the electrode assembly 40 and the casing 30, allowing current from the electrode assembly 40 to be conducted along the connecting components to the electrode terminals 311 of the casing 30. The electrode assembly 40 may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator, etc., and the electrode assembly 40 may be formed by winding or stacking the positive electrode, separator, and negative electrode in a specific order.

[0070] The insulating component 50 is disposed inside the housing 30, and further disposed between the electrode assembly 40 and the housing 30, serving to isolate the electrode assembly 40 from the housing 30 except for the electrode terminal 311. The insulating component 50 has insulating properties, preventing current flow under normal operating conditions of the battery cell 22. The insulating component 50 can be directly connected to the housing 30. The insulating component 50 can be a single piece, composed of multiple connected parts, or separately disposed at corresponding positions on the electrode assembly 40 and the housing 30. The insulating component 50 may have clearance space for the electrode terminal 311, allowing current conduction between the electrode assembly 40 and the electrode terminal 311. The insulating component 50 may include non-conductive materials such as plastic, rubber, and resin.

[0071] The heat-conducting component 51 is disposed inside the housing 30, further positioned between the electrode assembly 40 and the housing 30, to conduct the heat generated by the electrode assembly 40 to the housing 30 and then to the outside. The heat-conducting component 51 can be a single piece, composed of multiple connected parts, or separately disposed at corresponding positions on the electrode assembly 40 and the housing 30. The heat-conducting component 51 does not interfere with the electrode terminals 311, and can have appropriate clearance space provided thereon. The heat-conducting component 51 can be directly connected to the housing 30.

[0072] When the electrode assembly 40 conducts current to the electrode terminals 311 of the housing 30, a large amount of current flows through the output portion of the electrode assembly 40, generating a significant amount of heat due to electrothermal heating. Replacing at least part of the non-thermally conductive insulating component 50 with a thermally conductive component 51 allows for timely heat dissipation.

[0073] The heat-conducting component 51 has insulating properties, which prevents current flow under normal operating conditions of the battery cell 22. Optionally, the insulating component 50 other than the heat-conducting component 51 has poor thermal conductivity.

[0074] By replacing at least part of the insulating element 50 with a thermally conductive and insulating heat-conducting element 51, the heat generated by the electrode assembly 40 can be conducted to the housing 30 through the heat-conducting element 51 and then to the outside of the battery cell 22. This helps to transfer heat outward in a timely manner, prevents heat from being transferred back into the electrode assembly 40, allows the electrode assembly 40 to operate at a suitable temperature, and improves the performance of the battery cell 22.

[0075] In some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the heat-conducting element 51 is 20 W / (m•K) or higher; optionally, the thermal conductivity of the heat-conducting element 51 is 30-400 W / (m•K).

[0076] Thermal conductivity refers to the amount of heat transferred through a 1-meter-thick material with a 1-degree Celsius temperature difference between its two surfaces in one hour under steady-state heat transfer conditions. It is measured in W / (m•K). Thermal conductivity is one of the most important thermo-hygroscopic properties of materials. While it can describe homogeneous materials, for porous, multi-layered, multi-structured, or anisotropic materials, the average thermal conductivity can be used to describe the overall thermal conductivity. A higher thermal conductivity indicates better heat transfer and improves the accuracy of temperature measurements.

[0077] Thermal conductivity can be measured using the ASTM D5470-17 test method, specifically at an ambient temperature of 21-25 degrees Celsius and an ambient humidity of 40-60%, by means of the standard test method for the thermal transfer characteristics of thermally conductive electrical insulating materials.

[0078] By providing a heat-conducting element 51 with a thermal conductivity of 20 W / (m•K) or higher, the heat generated by the electrode assembly 40 during normal operation of the battery cell 22 can be transferred to the outer casing 30 in a timely manner through the heat-conducting element 51, and then to the outside of the battery cell 22. By providing a heat-conducting element 51 with a thermal conductivity of 30-400 W / (m•K), the heat generated by the electrode assembly 40 during normal operation of the battery cell 22 can be transferred to the outer casing 30 more fully and timely through the heat-conducting element 51, and then to the outside of the battery cell 22.

[0079] In addition, thermal conductive materials with a heat transfer efficiency of less than 400 W / (m•K) are easier to obtain and have a lower cost.

[0080] In some embodiments, the heat-conducting element 51 includes one or more of aluminum nitride, boron nitride, silicon carbide, zinc oxide, aluminum oxide, and magnesium oxide.

[0081] The compounds mentioned above are not limited to the compounds themselves, but also include materials based on the compounds, such as alumina, which includes Al2O3 materials, as well as alumina ceramic materials based on alumina (Al2O3); in addition, the compounds mentioned above also include various crystal structures of the compounds, such as boron nitride, which is a crystal composed of nitrogen atoms and boron atoms, including cubic boron nitride, rhombohedral boron nitride, zinc boron nitride, hexagonal boron nitride and other crystal structures.

[0082] Optionally, the heat-conducting element 51 can be made of one of the above compounds, such as aluminum nitride heat-conducting element 51 or boron nitride heat-conducting element 51. Optionally, the heat-conducting element 51 can be an alumina ceramic heat-conducting element 51. Optionally, the heat-conducting element 51 can be made of a combination of alumina and magnesium oxide.

[0083] The above materials are selected to make the heat-conducting component 51, giving it good thermal conductivity and insulation properties. Under normal operating conditions of the battery 2, the heat-conducting component 51 can prevent it from being broken down by the current, thus playing an insulating role. It can also transfer the heat generated by the electrode assembly 40 to the outer casing 30 in a timely manner, and then to the outside of the battery cell 22.

[0084] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 , 4 5, 6, The electrode assembly 40 includes an electrode tab 41, the housing 30 includes a cover plate 31, and the heat-conducting element 51 is disposed between the end 411 of the electrode tab of the electrode assembly 40 and the cover plate 31.

[0085] The tab 41 is part of the electrode assembly 40 and is disposed within the housing 30. The electrode assembly 40 includes positive and negative electrodes. The portions of the positive and negative electrodes with active material constitute the main body of the electrode assembly 40, while the portions of the positive and negative electrodes without active material each constitute the tab 41. The positive and negative tabs 41 can be located together at one end of the main body or at opposite ends of the main body. During the charging and discharging process of the battery 2, the positive and negative active materials react with the electrolyte, and the tab 41 connects to the electrode terminals 311 to form a current circuit. A large amount of current flows through the tab 41, and due to electrothermal heating, a large amount of heat is easily generated at the tab 41. The tab 41 can be composed of multiple layers of ear-shaped structures. The tab 41 includes an end 411, which is the portion of the tab 41 furthest from the electrode assembly 40.

[0086] The cover plate 31 is part of the housing 30 and can also be called an end cap. The housing 30 includes a component with an opening on one side and a cover plate 31 for closing the opening. The cover plate 31 includes electrode terminals 311, which can also be called terminals. The electrode terminals 311 can be used to electrically connect with the electrode assembly 40 for outputting or inputting electrical energy to the battery cell 22. The electrode terminals 311 are charged, and the part of the cover plate 31 other than the electrode terminals 311 is not charged, so there is a non-conductive structure between them, such as an upper plastic, a sealing ring, and a lower plastic. The cover plate 31 can be a square plate, such as a square battery cell 22; it can also be a circular plate structure, such as a cylindrical battery cell 22; or it can be other structures used to close the opening of the housing 30, such as a pouch battery cell 22. The shape of the cover plate 31 is mainly determined by the opening shape of the opening component in the housing 30. The cover plate 31 can be made of metals such as copper, iron, and aluminum, or alloys such as aluminum alloys and steel, or composite materials such as plastics and carbon fibers, or other metallic and non-metallic materials that meet the performance requirements. The cover plate 31 has good heat dissipation capabilities, allowing heat to be transferred outwards in a timely manner.

[0087] Optional, such as Figure 4 , 6 As shown, the tab 41 can be directly electrically connected to the electrode terminal 311. At this time, part of the end 411 of the tab is directly electrically connected to the electrode terminal 311, and the end 411 of the tab that is not connected to the electrode terminal 311 transfers heat to the cover plate 31 through the heat-conducting element 51.

[0088] Optional, such as Figure 3 , 6 As shown, the tab 41 can be connected to other components first and then to the electrode terminal 311. At this time, the heat-conducting element 51 is disposed between the end 411 of the tab and the cover plate 31. The heat-conducting element 51 and the end 411 of the tab are positioned correspondingly. There are other components between the heat-conducting element 51 and the end 411 of the tab. Heat is transferred to other components through the end 411 of the tab and then conducted to the cover plate 31.

[0089] Because the tab 41 in the electrode assembly 40 carries the largest current, and the end 411 of the tab is the main component for outputting current, it is prone to generating a large amount of heat due to excessive current. By placing the heat-conducting element 51 between the end 411 of the tab and the cover plate 31, the heat from the end of the tab can be quickly transferred to the heat-conducting element 51, and then transferred to the cover plate 31, thereby dissipating the heat outside the battery cell 22. Compared to placing the heat-conducting element 51 at other locations in the electrode assembly 40, placing it at the end 411 of the tab requires the least amount of material for the heat-conducting element 51 and achieves the best heat transfer effect.

[0090] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 , 78. The electrode assembly 40 includes a tab 41, the housing 30 includes a cover plate 31, the battery cell 22 includes an electrical connector 60, the electrical connector 60 is configured to be electrically connected to the tab 41 and the cover plate 31, and the heat-conducting component 51 is disposed at a position corresponding to the electrical connector 60.

[0091] Electrical connector 60 can be an adapter plate or a current collector, a structural component used to achieve electrical connection between two parts. Electrical connector 60 may include a tab connection portion and an electrode terminal 311 connection portion. The tab connection portion can be connected to the tab 41, specifically to the end 411 of the tab, which can be a welded connection or a connection in other ways. The electrode terminal 311 connection portion can be connected to the electrode terminal 311. Current is transferred from the tab 41 of the electrode assembly 40 to the electrical connector 60, and then to the electrode terminal 311. Electrical connector 60 can also concentrate and converge the current from multiple tabs 41 before transmitting it outwards. Electrical connector 60 can be a sheet structure, specifically a regular shape such as square, round, or elliptical, or an irregular shape manufactured according to requirements. Electrical connector 60 can be made of metal materials such as aluminum and copper, or alloy materials such as copper alloys and aluminum alloys, or materials such as tin-plated copper.

[0092] Optionally, a battery cell 22 includes two electrical connectors 60, one of which is connected to the positive electrode tab 41 and the positive electrode terminal 311, and the other of which is connected to the negative electrode tab 41 and the negative electrode terminal 311.

[0093] The location corresponding to the electrical connector 60 can be the welding point between the electrical connector 60 and the tab 41. The current from multiple tabs 41 will converge at the welding point between the tab 41 and the electrical connector 60. A large amount of current flows through this welding point, generating a significant amount of heat. Therefore, a heat-conducting component 51 needs to be installed at this welding point to dissipate the heat promptly. The heat-conducting component 51 is located on the electrical connector 60 away from the tab 41.

[0094] Optionally, the area of ​​the heat-conducting element 51 is larger than the welding area between the electrical connector 60 and the tab 41, so that the heat-conducting element 51 completely covers the welding area, effectively transferring the heat from the welding area. Alternatively, the area of ​​the heat-conducting element 51 is equal to the welding area between the electrical connector 60 and the tab 41, so that the heat-conducting element 51 just covers the welding area, effectively transferring the heat from the welding area while minimizing the material consumption of the heat-conducting element 51. See also Figure 7 , 8 Optionally, the area of ​​the heat-conducting element 51 is greater than or equal to the area of ​​the electrical connector 60, and the heat-conducting element 51 covers the electrical connector 60 to quickly transfer the heat of the electrical connector 60.

[0095] The heat-conducting component 51 is positioned at a location corresponding to the electrical connector 60. One part of the heat-conducting component 51 is connected to the electrical connector 60, and the other part of the heat-conducting component 51 is connected to the cover plate 31, so that the large amount of heat generated by the electrical connector 60 can be transferred out in a timely manner.

[0096] In some embodiments, see Figure 7 All insulating parts 50 are heat-conducting parts 51. With all insulating parts 50 being heat-conducting parts 51, the current from the electrode assembly 40 is transferred through its tabs 41 to the electrical connector 60, and then to the electrode terminals 311. Except for the electrode terminals 311, the other parts of the cover plate 31 are insulated from the electrical connector 60 by insulating parts 50.

[0097] Optionally, the welding point between the electrode tab 41 and the electrical connector 60 generates a large amount of heat due to the flow of a large current. This heat is transferred to the cover plate 31 through the heat-conducting element 51 connected to the electrical connector 60. Optionally, the heat generated by the electrode assembly 40 can be directly transferred to the housing 32 portion outside the cover plate 31 through the heat-conducting element 51.

[0098] Replacing the original insulating component 50 with a heat-conducting component 51 that has both insulation properties and good thermal conductivity results in a larger contact area between the heat-conducting component 51 and the electrical connector 60 or electrode assembly 40, compared to partially replacing the insulating component 50 with the heat-conducting component 51. This leads to a faster heat transfer process to the heat-conducting component 51. At the same time, the contact area between the heat-conducting component 51 and the outer shell 30 will also increase, making the heat transfer process from the heat-conducting component 51 to the outer shell 30 faster. The speed at which heat is transferred outward along the electrode assembly 40-heat-conducting component 51-cover plate 31 will also be faster.

[0099] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 , 5 The electrode assembly 40 includes a tab 41, the housing 30 includes a cover plate 31, the battery cell 22 includes an electrical connector 60, the electrical connector 60 is configured to be electrically connected to the tab 41 and the cover plate 31, and the battery cell 22 includes a heat insulation component 70, the heat insulation component 70 is disposed at a position corresponding to the electrical connector 60.

[0100] The heat insulation component 70 is disposed inside the housing 30 for heat insulation. Specifically, the heat insulation component 70 is disposed at a position corresponding to the electrical connector 60. This position can be where the electrical connector 60 is welded to the tab 41. The heat insulation component 70 can be disposed on the side of the electrical connector 60 near the tab 41, with a portion of the heat insulation component 70 covering the tab 41. The heat insulation component 70 and the heat-conducting component 51 are respectively disposed on both sides of the electrical connector 60, preventing heat from the tab 41 from being transferred into the electrode assembly 40. The electrode assembly 40 may include the tab 41 and a body. The heat insulation component 70 can be disposed between the body of the electrode assembly 40 and the tab 41, preventing the tab 41 from being inserted backwards into the body and preventing heat from the tab 41 from being directly transferred to the body of the electrode assembly 40.

[0101] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 , 5 A heat insulation element 70 is disposed between the electrode assembly 40 and the electrical connector 60. Specifically, a portion of the tabs 41 are connected to the electrical connector 60, so the heat insulation element 70 is also disposed between this portion of the tabs 41 and the electrode assembly 40. By placing the heat insulation element 70 between the electrode assembly 40 and the electrical connector 60, the heat transfer from the electrical connector 60 to the electrode assembly 40 body can be reduced, keeping the internal temperature of the electrode assembly 40 within a suitable range and improving the performance of the entire battery cell 22.

[0102] The heat insulation component 70 can be a sheet-like structure or have the same shape as the electrical connector 60. The heat insulation component 70 can be an insulating material, and no current will flow under normal operation of the battery cell 22.

[0103] Optionally, the area of ​​the heat insulation component 70 is larger than the welding area where the electrical connector 60 and the tab 41 are welded. The heat insulation component 70 completely covers the welding area, preventing heat from the welding area from being directly transferred to the electrode assembly 40 body. Optionally, the area of ​​the heat insulation component 70 is equal to the welding area where the electrical connector 60 and the tab 41 are welded. The heat insulation component 70 just covers the welding area, preventing heat from the welding area from being directly transferred to the electrode assembly 40 body while minimizing the material used in manufacturing the heat insulation component 70. Optionally, the area of ​​the heat insulation component 70 is greater than or equal to the area of ​​the electrical connector 60. The heat insulation component 70 covers the electrical connector 60, preventing the electrical connector 60 from directly contacting any part of the electrode assembly 40 other than the tab 41, thus preventing heat from the electrical connector 60 from being transferred to the electrode assembly 40 body.

[0104] By placing the heat insulation component 70 at a position corresponding to the electrical connector 60, the heat transfer from the electrical connector 60 to other directions within the battery cell 22 is reduced, allowing heat to be transferred outward along the electrical connector 60-heat conductor 51-cover 31.

[0105] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 ,5 A heat insulation element 70 is disposed between the electrode assembly 40 and the electrical connector 60. Specifically, a portion of the tabs 41 are connected to the electrical connector 60, so the heat insulation element 70 is also disposed between this portion of the tabs 41 and the electrode assembly 40. By placing the heat insulation element 70 between the electrode assembly 40 and the electrical connector 60, the heat transfer from the electrical connector 60 to the electrode assembly 40 body can be reduced, keeping the internal temperature of the electrode assembly 40 within a suitable range and improving the performance of the entire battery cell 22.

[0106] In some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the heat insulation element 70 is 1 W / m•K or less; optionally, the thermal conductivity of the heat insulation element 70 is 0.1 W / m•K or less. By providing a heat insulation element 70 with a thermal conductivity of 1 W / m•K or less, the heat transferred from the electrical connector 60 to the body portion of the electrode assembly 40 other than the tab 41 is reduced during normal operation of the battery cell 22. By providing a heat insulation element 70 with a thermal conductivity of 0.1 W / m•K or less, the heat transferred from the electrical connector 60 to the body portion of the electrode assembly 40 other than the tab 41 can be further reduced during normal operation of the battery cell 22.

[0107] In some embodiments, the thermal insulation component 70 includes one or more of ceramics, asbestos, rock wool, glass wool, aerogel felt, and vacuum panels. Besides asbestos, other natural mineral fibers similar to asbestos can also be used as materials for the thermal insulation component 70; similarly, besides materials such as rock wool and glass wool, other similar man-made inorganic fibers can also be used as materials for the thermal insulation component 70.

[0108] Optionally, the heat insulation component 70 can be made of one of the above materials, such as ceramic heat insulation component 70, asbestos heat insulation component 70, etc.; alternatively, the heat insulation component 70 can be made of multiple materials, such as heat insulation component 70 made of asbestos and rock wool mixed in a certain proportion, or a vacuum plate made of ceramic as heat insulation component 70.

[0109] The above materials or combinations of materials are selected to make the heat insulation component 70, so that the heat insulation component 70 has a good heat insulation effect and insulation performance. Under the normal operation of the battery 2, the heat insulation component 70 is not broken down by the current and plays an insulation role. It can also block the heat on the electrical connector 60 from the body part of the electrode assembly 40 except for the tab 41, so that the electrode assembly 40 can work at a suitable temperature and improve the performance of the battery cell 22.

[0110] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 , 5 The housing 30 includes a housing 32, at least one end of which has an opening. A cover plate 31 is used to close the opening of the housing 32. A heat-conducting element 51 is disposed between the electrode assembly 40 and the housing 32 to enclose the electrode assembly 40.

[0111] The housing 32 may be part of the outer casing 30. The housing 32 is a component with an opening on one side, which mates with the cover plate 31 to form a closed receiving space 33 for accommodating the electrode assembly 40, electrolyte, and other components. The housing 32 and the cover plate 31 can be connected by welding, such as laser welding. The housing 32 has good heat dissipation capabilities.

[0112] The housing 32 and the cover plate 31 can be independent components, or the cover plate 31 and the housing 32 can be integrated. Specifically, the cover plate 31 and the housing 32 can form a common connection surface before other components are inserted into the housing. When it is necessary to enclose the interior of the housing 32, the cover plate 31 can then cover the housing 32.

[0113] The housing 32 can be of various shapes and sizes, such as cuboid, cylindrical, or hexagonal prism. The material of the housing 32 can be metals such as copper, iron, and aluminum, alloys such as aluminum alloys and steel, composite materials such as plastics and carbon fiber, or other metallic or non-metallic materials that meet specific performance requirements. The housing 32 has good heat dissipation capabilities, allowing heat to be transferred outwards in a timely manner. The material of the housing 32 can be the same as that of the cover plate 31 for easy welding, or it can be different from the cover plate 31 to meet different performance requirements.

[0114] The heat-conducting element 51 is placed between the electrode assembly 40 and the housing 32 to enclose the electrode assembly 40, so that the part of the electrode assembly 40 except for the tab 41 is quickly transferred to the housing 32 through the heat-conducting element 51, and also serves to prevent the tab 41 from being inserted into the electrode assembly 40.

[0115] This application provides a battery 2, such as Figure 2 As shown, it includes a single battery cell 22.

[0116] Battery 2 can be a secondary battery 2 or a primary battery 2, and can also be a lithium-sulfur battery, a sodium-ion battery, or a magnesium-ion battery. The individual battery cells 22 within the same battery 2 can have the same chemical system or structural shape, or they can have different chemical systems or structural shapes. The individual battery cell 22 can be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other three-dimensional shapes.

[0117] By using the battery cell 22 in this application, the battery cell 22 can conduct internal heat to the outside of the battery cell 22 in a timely manner, making the performance of the battery cell 22 more stable and improving the overall performance and service life of the battery 2.

[0118] This application provides an electrical device 1, such as... Figure 1As shown, it includes a battery 2, which provides electrical energy to an electrical device 1. The electrical device 1 can be a mobile phone, tablet, laptop, electric toy, power tool, electric vehicle, electric car, ship, spacecraft, etc. Because using the battery 2, which has better overall performance and lifespan as described in this application, helps to improve the lifespan and performance of the electrical device 1.

[0119] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 3 , 5 As shown, this application provides a battery cell 22, including a housing 30, an electrode assembly 40, and an insulating component 50, wherein at least a portion of the insulating component 50 is a heat-conducting component 51.

[0120] The thermal conductivity of the heat-conducting element 51 is 30-400 W / (m•K). The heat-conducting element 51 is made of boron nitride and is disposed between the end 411 of the electrode tab of the electrode assembly 40 and the cover plate 31. The heat-conducting element 51 is located at the position corresponding to the electrical connector 60. All of the insulating elements 50 are heat-conducting elements 51.

[0121] The heat insulation element 70 is disposed at a position corresponding to the electrical connector 60. The heat insulation element 70 is disposed between the electrode assembly 40 and the electrical connector 60. The thermal conductivity of the heat insulation element 70 is less than 0.1 W / (m•K). The heat insulation element 70 is made of ceramic.

[0122] The heat-conducting element 51 is also disposed between the electrode assembly 40 and the housing 32 to enclose the electrode assembly 40.

[0123] By providing heat-conducting components 51 between the electrode assembly 40 and the cover plate 31, and between the electrode assembly 40 and the housing 32, the heat generated on the electrode assembly 40 can be fully and quickly transferred to the housing 30 and conducted to the outside of the battery cell. In addition, by providing a heat insulation component 70 between the electrode assembly 40 and the electrical connector 60, the transfer of heat generated on the electrical connector 60 to the electrode assembly 40 can be reduced.

[0124] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A battery cell, characterized in that, include: The housing includes an enclosed receiving space; An electrode assembly is disposed within the receiving space of the housing; as well as, An insulating element is disposed between the electrode assembly and the housing; Wherein, at least a portion of the insulating element is a thermally conductive element, the electrode assembly includes a tab, the housing includes a cover plate, and the thermally conductive element is disposed between the end of the tab of the electrode assembly and the cover plate.

2. The battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal conductivity of the heat-conducting component is 30-400 W / (m•K).

3. The battery cell according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The heat-conducting component includes one of aluminum nitride, boron nitride, silicon carbide, zinc oxide, aluminum oxide, and magnesium oxide.

4. The battery cell according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The battery cell includes an electrical connector, which is configured to be electrically connected to the tab and the cover plate, and the heat-conducting component is disposed at a position corresponding to the electrical connector.

5. The battery cell according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, All of the insulating components are thermally conductive components.

6. The battery cell according to claim 4, characterized in that, The electrical connector is configured to be electrically connected to the tab and the cover plate, and the battery cell includes a heat insulation component, which is disposed at a position corresponding to the electrical connector.

7. The battery cell according to claim 6, characterized in that, The heat insulation element is disposed between the electrode assembly and the electrical connector.

8. The battery cell according to claim 7, characterized in that, The thermal conductivity of the insulation component is below 0.1 W / (m•K).

9. The battery cell according to claim 8, characterized in that, The thermal insulation component includes one of ceramic, asbestos, rock wool, aerogel felt, and vacuum plate.

10. The battery cell according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The housing includes a shell having an opening at at least one end, a cover for closing the opening of the shell, and a thermally conductive element disposed between the electrode assembly and the shell to enclose the electrode assembly.

11. A battery, characterized in that, include The battery cell as described in any one of claims 1-10.

12. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, include The battery of claim 11 is used to provide electrical energy to an electrical device.

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