End cap assembly, battery pack, battery pack and electric device

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of batteries, in particular to an end cover assembly, a battery pack, a battery pack and an electric equipment. The end cover assembly provided by the application comprises a first cover plate used for closing a first shell; a second cover plate used for closing a second shell, the first cover plate and the second cover plate are spaced apart along the thickness direction of the end cover assembly and jointly define a mounting gap; a pole is arranged through the first cover plate and the second cover plate and is insulated from the first cover plate and the second cover plate, a first end of the pole is used for connecting a first pole core arranged in the first shell, and a second end of the pole is used for connecting a second pole core arranged in the second shell; an insulating plate is arranged in the mounting gap to insulate the first cover plate and the second cover plate, the insulating plate at least comprises a first plate body and a second plate body which are arranged side by side and connected, and the first plate body and the second plate body jointly surround the pole. The end cover assembly provided by the application helps to avoid the generation of sharp end discharge at the edge of the end cover, so as to improve the safety of the battery pack.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to an end cap assembly, a battery pack, a battery module, and an electrical device. Background Technology

[0002] As the energy density requirements of energy storage systems continue to increase, battery module integration technology is gradually developing towards greater compactness.

[0003] To reduce space requirements, existing battery packs directly arrange the positive and negative terminals of two adjacent cells in series and place an insulating plate between the end caps of adjacent cells, thus eliminating the need for connecting bars and saving installation space.

[0004] However, in the related technology, the insulating plate is located between the end caps of the two batteries. When the end caps on both sides are welded to the battery casing, the high temperature can cause the edge of the insulating plate to melt and deform, exposing the edge of the end cap, which can easily lead to tip discharge at the edge of the end cap. Utility Model Content

[0005] In view of the above problems, this application provides an end cap assembly, a battery pack, a battery module, and an electrical device, which helps to avoid tip discharge at the edge of the end cap, thereby improving the safety of the battery pack.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides an end cap assembly, comprising: a first cover plate for closing a first housing; a second cover plate for closing a second housing, the first cover plate and the second cover plate being spaced apart along the thickness direction of the end cap assembly and jointly defining an installation gap; an electrode post passing through the first cover plate and the second cover plate and being insulated from the first cover plate and the second cover plate, a first end of the electrode post being used to connect to a first electrode core disposed in the first housing, and a second end of the electrode post being used to connect to a second electrode core disposed in the second housing; and an insulating plate disposed within the installation gap to insulate the first cover plate and the second cover plate, the insulating plate comprising at least a first plate body and a second plate body arranged side by side and connected, the first plate body and the second plate body jointly surrounding the electrode post.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the ratio of the area corresponding to the outer contour of the projection of the insulating plate onto the reference plane to the area corresponding to the outer contour of the projection of either the first cover plate or the second cover plate onto the reference plane is 1-1.2, and the reference plane is perpendicular to the axis of the pole post.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the outer peripheral surface of the insulating plate is flush with the outer peripheral surface of either the first cover plate or the second cover plate.

[0009] In one possible implementation, both the first plate and the second plate have a first surface facing the first cover plate and a second surface facing the second cover plate. The first surfaces of both the first and second plates have first reinforcing ribs extending along the outer contour of the insulating plate, and these first reinforcing ribs together surround and adhere to the outer peripheral surface of the first cover plate. Similarly, the second surfaces of both the first and second plates have second reinforcing ribs extending along the outer contour of the insulating plate, and these second reinforcing ribs together surround and adhere to the outer peripheral surface of the second cover plate.

[0010] In one possible implementation, both the first cover plate and the second cover plate include a cover plate body and a flange protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the cover plate body; the flange of the first cover plate is used to connect with the end face of the first housing, and the first retaining rib covers the outer peripheral surface of the flange of the first cover plate; the flange of the second cover plate is used to connect with the end face of the second housing, and the second retaining rib covers the outer peripheral surface of the flange of the second cover plate.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the first plate has a first connecting surface facing the second plate, the second plate has a second connecting surface facing the first plate, a first clearance groove is formed on the first connecting surface, and a second clearance groove is formed on the second connecting surface. The first clearance groove and the second clearance groove together form a perforation through which the pole post passes.

[0012] In one possible implementation, one of the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface is provided with a connecting structure, and the other is provided with a connecting mating structure, and the first plate and the second plate are connected through the connecting structure and the connecting mating structure.

[0013] In one possible implementation, one of the connecting structure and the connecting mating structure is formed as a snap fastener and the other is formed as a slot, the snap fastener being adapted to engage within the slot.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the first cover plate has a first through hole through which the pole post passes, and a first installation gap is formed between the wall of the first through hole and the pole post. The second cover plate has a second through hole through which the pole post passes, and a second installation gap is formed between the wall of the second through hole and the pole post. The end cap assembly further includes a first insulating ring and a second insulating ring, wherein the first insulating ring is disposed in the first installation gap and the second insulating ring is disposed in the second installation gap.

[0015] In one possible implementation, both the first mounting gap and the first mounting clearance include a first gap segment and a second gap segment distributed along the thickness direction of the end cap assembly, the aperture of the first gap segment being smaller than the aperture of the second gap segment, and both the first insulating ring and the second insulating ring include a first insulating segment and a second insulating segment, the first insulating segment being located in the first gap segment and the second insulating segment being located in the second gap segment.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the end cap assembly further includes: a first electrode lead-out piece and a second electrode lead-out piece, wherein the first electrode lead-out piece is connected to a first end of the electrode post and is insulated from the first cover plate; and the second electrode lead-out piece is connected to a second end of the electrode post and is insulated from the second cover plate.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the end cap assembly further includes: a first insulating sheet and a second insulating sheet, wherein the first insulating sheet is disposed between the first cover plate and the first electrode lead-out sheet, and the second insulating sheet is disposed between the second cover plate and the second electrode lead-out sheet.

[0018] In one possible implementation, a portion of the structure of the first insulating sheet extends into the first mounting gap and fits against the first insulating ring; a portion of the structure of the second insulating sheet extends into the second mounting gap and fits against the second insulating ring.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the electrode post includes: a first electrode post and a second electrode post, wherein the first electrode post passes through the first cover plate and is connected to a first electrode core inside the first housing, and the second electrode post passes through the second cover plate and is connected to a second electrode core inside the second housing.

[0020] In one possible implementation, one of the first electrode post and the second electrode post is a copper electrode post and the other is an aluminum electrode post, and the first electrode post and the second electrode post are used to connect the first electrode core and the second electrode core in series.

[0021] Secondly, this application provides a battery pack, comprising: a plurality of batteries, one of any two adjacent batteries including a first housing and a first electrode core disposed within the first housing, and the other including a second housing and a second electrode core disposed within the second housing; an end cap assembly as described in any of the above possible implementations, wherein a first cover plate of the end cap assembly is used to close the first housing, a second cover plate of the end cap assembly is used to close the second housing, a first end of the electrode post is used to connect to the first electrode core, and a second end of the electrode post is used to connect to the second electrode core.

[0022] Thirdly, this application provides a battery pack including the aforementioned battery pack.

[0023] Fourthly, this application provides an electrical device including the aforementioned battery pack.

[0024] The end cap assembly, battery pack, battery module, and electrical equipment provided in this application achieve series connection of battery cells by directly connecting the terminal post across two cover plates, eliminating the need for external connection structures such as connector bars. This allows for direct series connection of two batteries without the need for external connection structures, saving battery pack space and improving space utilization. Secondly, by setting up separate first and second plates and arranging them around the terminal post, the insulating plate can be inserted into the installation gap between the first and second cover plates after they have been welded to their respective housings. This avoids melting damage to the insulating plate caused by the high temperature of welding, thereby ensuring the structural integrity and dielectric stability of the insulating plate, and ultimately guaranteeing the insulation reliability between the first and second cover plates. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 The schematic diagram of the battery pack provided in this application Figure 1 ;

[0027] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the battery pack provided in this application Figure 2 ;

[0028] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the end cap assembly provided in this application;

[0030] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Enlarged view of point B in the middle;

[0031] Figure 6 An exploded view of the end cap assembly provided in this application;

[0032] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Enlarged view of point C in the middle;

[0033] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the insulating plate in the end cap assembly provided in this application;

[0034] Figure 9This is a flowchart of the series assembly of adjacent batteries provided in this application.

[0035] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0036] 1-Battery pack;

[0037] 10-Battery; 11-First casing; 12-First electrode core; 13-Second casing; 14-Second electrode core; 15-End cap assembly; 1501-Cover plate body; 1502-Flange;

[0038] 151-First cover plate; 1511-First through hole; 1512-First mounting gap; 1512a-First gap section; 1512b-Second gap section;

[0039] 152 - Second cover plate; 1521 - Second through hole; 1522 - Second mounting gap;

[0040] 153 - Pole post; 1531 - First pole post; 1532 - Second pole post;

[0041] 154-Insulating board; 1541-First plate body; 1541a-First connecting surface; 1541a1-First clearance groove; 1542-Second plate body; 1542a-Second connecting surface; 1542a1-Second clearance groove; 154a-First surface; 154b-Second surface; 1543-First surrounding rib; 1544-Second surrounding rib;

[0042] 155 - First insulating ring; 155a - First insulating section; 155b - Second insulating section;

[0043] 156 - Second insulating ring; 157 - First electrode lead-out piece; 158 - Second electrode lead-out piece; 159 - First insulating piece; 1510 - Second insulating piece. Detailed Implementation

[0044] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of the embodiments of this application more apparent and understandable, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0045] To reduce space requirements, existing battery packs directly arrange the positive and negative terminals of two adjacent cells in series, and place an insulating plate between the end caps of adjacent cells, thus eliminating the need for connectors and saving installation space. However, in this technology, the insulating plate is located between the end caps of two cells. When the end caps are welded to the battery casing on both sides, the high temperature can cause the edges of the insulating plate to melt and deform, exposing the edges of the end caps and making them prone to tip discharge.

[0046] In view of this, this application provides an end cap assembly, a battery pack, a battery module, and an electrical device. By directly connecting the terminals across two cover plates to achieve series connection of the battery cells, the traditional external connection structure and its installation space are eliminated. Without the need for an external connection structure, two batteries can be directly connected in series, which helps save battery pack space and improve space utilization. Secondly, by setting a separate first and second plate and arranging them around the terminals, the insulating plate can be inserted into the installation gap between the first and second cover plates after they are welded to their respective housings. This avoids melting damage to the insulating plate caused by the high temperature of welding, ensuring the structural integrity and dielectric stability of the insulating plate.

[0047] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 The battery pack 1 of this application embodiment may include a plurality of batteries 10. Any two adjacent batteries 10 include a first battery and a second battery. The first battery includes a first housing 11 and a first electrode core 12 disposed in the first housing 11. The second battery includes a second housing 13 and a second electrode core 14 disposed in the second housing 13.

[0048] The end cap assembly 15 includes a first cover plate 151, a second cover plate 152, a pole post 153, and an insulating plate 154. The first cover plate 151 of the end cap assembly 15 is used to close the first housing 11, and the second cover plate 152 of the end cap assembly 15 is used to close the second housing 13.

[0049] The first end of the terminal post 153 is used to connect to the first electrode core 12, and the second end of the terminal post 153 is used to connect to the second electrode core 14, thus enabling the connection of two adjacent batteries 10. It can be understood that when the polarities of the electrodes of the first electrode core 12 and the second electrode core 14 connected to the two ends of the terminal post 153 are opposite, the two adjacent batteries 10 can be connected in series, eliminating the need for external connection structures such as connecting bars. The terminal post 153 is insulated from the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152.

[0050] The first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152 are arranged at intervals along the thickness direction of the end cap assembly 15 to form an installation gap between the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152.

[0051] The insulating board 154 includes at least a first board body 1541 and a second board body 1542. That is, the insulating board 154 in this embodiment is a split structure composed of at least two board bodies (e.g., the first board body 1541 and the second board body 1542), which are arranged side by side and connected to each other. Of course, it can be understood that the insulating board 154 in this embodiment may also include more board bodies, such as three, four or more. The following embodiments are all described using the example of the insulating board 154 being composed of the first board body 1541 and the second board body 1542.

[0052] An insulating plate 154 is disposed within the installation gap to cover the circumferential area of ​​the pole post 153, thereby forming physical isolation and insulation between the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152, and thus blocking the potential conduction path between the two housings (including the first housing 11 and the second housing 13 mentioned above).

[0053] The first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 together surround the pole post 153. That is, a part of the pole post 153 along the circumferential direction is opposite to the first plate 1541, and another part of the pole post 153 along the circumferential direction is opposite to the second plate 1542, so that the first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 together surround the pole post 153 after being assembled.

[0054] Understandably, by directly connecting the terminal 153 across the two cover plates to achieve series connection between the two batteries, compared to the commonly used external wiring series structure, external connection structures such as connectors are eliminated, and no wiring space is required. The structure is simpler and more compact, which helps save battery pack space, improves space utilization, increases the energy density of the battery pack, and reduces costs. Secondly, by using the first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 to form an insulating plate 154 and surround the terminal 153, the insulating plate 154 can be inserted into the installation gap between the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152 after the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152 have been welded to their respective shells. This avoids the high temperature during the welding of the cover plates and the shells, which could cause melting damage to the insulating plate 154, thereby ensuring the structural integrity and dielectric stability of the insulating plate 154, and thus ensuring the insulation reliability between the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152.

[0055] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 6The area of ​​the insulating plate 154 should not be less than the area of ​​the first cover plate 151 or the second cover plate 152. Specifically, the ratio of the area corresponding to the outer contour of the projection of the insulating plate 154 onto the reference plane to the area corresponding to the outer contour of the projection of the first cover plate 151 onto the reference plane is 1-1.2. For example, the ratio can be 1, 1.05, 1.1, 1.15, 1.2, etc. Alternatively, the ratio of the area corresponding to the outer contour of the projection of the insulating plate 154 onto the reference plane to the area corresponding to the outer contour of the projection of the second cover plate 152 onto the reference plane is 1-1.2. For example, the ratio can be 1, 1.05, 1.1, 1.15, 1.2, etc. The specific value of the ratio can be determined according to actual needs, and this application does not impose any restrictions. The reference plane is perpendicular to the axis of the pole post 153. Alternatively, the reference plane can be perpendicular to the thickness direction of the end cap assembly 15.

[0056] In this way, the edge of the first cover plate 151 or the second cover plate 152 can be guaranteed not to exceed the edge of the insulating plate 154, and the insulating plate 154 can completely separate the first cover plate 151 or the second cover plate 152, thereby achieving better insulation performance and avoiding the exposure of the cover plate edge to generate tip discharge.

[0057] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 The outer peripheral surface of the insulating plate 154 can be flush with the outer peripheral surfaces of the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152.

[0058] Understandably, by designing the outer peripheral surface of the insulating plate 154 flush with the outer peripheral surface of the first cover plate 151 and / or the second cover plate 152, it is possible to ensure that the overall size of the insulating plate 154 and the cover plate remains consistent, avoiding additional space occupation or insufficient coverage due to the size of the insulating plate 154 being too large or too small. Furthermore, by designing the outer peripheral surface of the insulating plate 154 flush with the outer peripheral surface of the first cover plate 151 and / or the second cover plate 152, it is also possible to avoid the concentration of electric field at the exposed edge caused by the outer peripheral surface of the insulating plate 154 not being flush with the cover plate (e.g., recessed or protruding), thereby preventing tip discharge.

[0059] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 The first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 each have a first surface 154a and a second surface 154b. The first surface 154a can face the first cover plate 151. The second surface 154b can face the second cover plate 152.

[0060] Both the first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 are provided with first surrounding ribs 1543. Specifically, the first surrounding ribs 1543 extend along the outer contour of the insulating plate 154 on the periphery of the first surface 154a of the first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542. In this way, the first surrounding ribs 1543 of the first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 can jointly surround and cover the outer peripheral surface of the first cover plate 151.

[0061] Furthermore, the first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 are also provided with second surrounding ribs 1544. Specifically, the second surrounding ribs 1544 extend along the outer contour of the insulating plate 154 on the periphery of the second surface 154b of the first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542. In this way, the second surrounding ribs 1544 of the first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 can jointly surround and cover the outer peripheral surface of the second cover plate 152.

[0062] Understandably, the first retaining rib 1543 and the second retaining rib 1544 are respectively attached to the outer peripheral surfaces of the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152, which can completely cover the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152, preventing them from being exposed to the outside world and thus preventing the occurrence of tip discharge. In addition, they can block external moisture and prevent internal gas or liquid leakage, thus improving the sealing performance.

[0063] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 6 Both the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152 include a cover plate body 1501 and a flange 1502. The first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152 project outward from the outer peripheral surface of the cover plate body 1501 to form the flange 1502. The flange 1502 of the first cover plate 151 is used for connection to the end face of the first housing 11, for example, by welding. In this case, the first reinforcing rib 1543 can cover the outer peripheral surface of the flange 1502 of the first cover plate 151.

[0064] The flange 1502 of the second cover plate 152 is used to connect to the end face of the second housing 13, for example, by welding. In this case, the second reinforcing rib 1544 can cover the outer peripheral surface of the flange 1502 of the second cover plate 152.

[0065] Optionally, an annular groove or chamfered structure can be added to the outer edge of the flange 1502 to match the inner contours of the first rib 1543 and the second rib 1544, forming a concave-convex interlocking mechanism to improve the tightness of the fit between the ribs and the flange 1502, and enhance sealing and anti-displacement capabilities. Alternatively, an elastic sealing strip (such as silicone or fluororubber) can be embedded inside the first rib 1543 and the second rib 1544 to compensate for the deformation tolerance after the cover plate and the shell are welded, thereby achieving dynamic sealing.

[0066] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 8 The first plate 1541 has a first connecting surface 1541a, and the second plate 1542 has a second connecting surface 1542a. The first connecting surface 1541a of the first plate 1541 faces the second plate 1542, and the second connecting surface 1542a of the second plate 1542 faces the first plate 1541. Further, a first clearance groove 1541a1 is formed on the first connecting surface 1541a, and a second clearance groove 1542a1 is formed on the second connecting surface 1542a. The first clearance groove 1541a1 and the second clearance groove 1542a1 can together form a through hole for the pole post 153 to pass through.

[0067] For example, when the pole post 153 is a cylindrical structure, the first clearance groove 1541a1 is a semi-circular groove and the second clearance groove 1542a1 is a semi-circular groove. The first clearance groove 1541a1 and the second clearance groove 1542a1 can together form a circular perforation that matches the pole post 153.

[0068] Understandably, the split-type clearance groove design allows the insulation board 154 to be assembled in stages after the cover plate is welded, avoiding direct thermal damage to the insulation board 154 caused by the high temperature of welding. Simultaneously, the alignment of the first clearance groove 1541a1 and the second clearance groove 1542a1 ensures the coaxiality of the bridging post 153, preventing wear of the insulation layer of the post 153 due to misalignment. Furthermore, the split-type first clearance groove 1541a1 and second clearance groove 1542a1 simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces the difficulty of integral molding with complex perforations, and improves the production efficiency and yield of the insulation board 154.

[0069] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 A connecting structure is provided on the first connecting surface 1541a, and a connecting mating structure is provided on the second connecting surface 1542a. Alternatively, a connecting structure is provided on the second connecting surface 1542a, and a connecting mating structure is provided on the first connecting surface 1541a. The first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 can be connected by the connecting structure and the connecting mating structure. Optionally, the connecting structure and the connecting mating structure can be mechanically interlocked structures. Specifically, a dovetail tenon can be provided on the first connecting surface 1541a, and a matching groove can be provided on the second connecting surface 1542a, achieving interlocking through lateral sliding and restricting vertical displacement between the plates. Alternatively, the connecting structure and the connecting mating structure can be guide and positioning structures. Specifically, a tapered guide post can be provided on the first connecting surface 1541a, and a matching tapered hole can be provided on the second connecting surface 1542a, automatically aligning during assembly to ensure the coaxiality of the perforation of the pole post 153.

[0070] In one possible implementation, the connecting structure can be a snap-fit, and the connecting mating structure can be a slot. Alternatively, the connecting structure can be a slot, and the connecting mating structure can be a snap-fit. The snap-fit ​​is adapted to engage within the slot. This engagement of the snap-fit ​​and slot allows for rapid assembly and secure locking of the modular panels. While avoiding the use of additional fasteners, it ensures a tight fit between the connecting surfaces to maintain insulation integrity and assembly accuracy.

[0071] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 6 The first cover plate 151 is provided with a first through hole 1511. One end of the pole post 153 passes through the first through hole 1511. A first installation gap 1512 is formed between the wall of the first through hole 1511 and the pole post 153.

[0072] Similarly, a second through hole 1521 is provided on the second cover plate 152. The other end of the pole post 153 passes through the second through hole 1521. A second installation gap 1522 is formed between the hole wall of the second through hole 1521 and the pole post 153.

[0073] Furthermore, the end cap assembly 15 also includes a first insulating ring 155 and a second insulating ring 156. The first insulating ring 155 can be disposed within a first mounting gap 1512. The second insulating ring 156 can be disposed within a second mounting gap 1522. Optionally, the insulating rings can be made of a three-layer composite material. The outer layer is polytetrafluoroethylene resistant to electrolyte corrosion, the middle layer is highly elastic silicone, and the inner layer is thermally conductive aluminum nitride ceramic.

[0074] Understandably, by setting an insulating ring to fill the gap between the cover plate and the terminal 153, direct contact between the terminal 153 and the cover plate can be blocked, thereby forming insulation between the cover plate and the terminal 153. This also eliminates the risk of short circuits between the terminal 153 and the cover plate caused by assembly tolerances or vibration. In addition, the insulating ring and the installation gap can form an annular sealing interface, preventing electrolyte, moisture, or metal debris from entering the gap and causing corrosion or leakage, thus enhancing environmental sealing.

[0075] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 Both the first mounting gap 1512 and the second mounting gap 1522 include a first gap segment 1512a and a second gap segment 1512b. The first gap segment 1512a and the second gap segment 1512b can be distributed along the thickness direction of the end cap assembly 15. Furthermore, the aperture of the first gap segment 1512a is smaller than the aperture of the second gap segment 1512b. Correspondingly, both the first insulating ring 155 and the second insulating ring 156 include a first insulating segment 155a and a second insulating segment 155b. The first insulating segment 155a can be located within the first gap segment 1512a, and the second insulating segment 155b can be located within the second gap segment 1512b.

[0076] Understandably, the first gap section 1512a strengthens the tight insulation contact between the terminal post 153 and the cover plate, suppresses the risk of electrolyte penetration, and provides mechanical support. The second gap section 1512b provides space for the elastic compensation of the insulating ring to accommodate the thermal expansion and deformation of the terminal post 153 during the charging and discharging process of the battery 10. At the same time, by utilizing the synergistic effect of the two-section insulating ring, stress concentration caused by assembly tolerances is reduced while ensuring insulation performance, effectively improving the sealing performance and long-term reliability of the end cover assembly 15, thereby ensuring the safe and stable operation of the battery pack 1 under complex operating conditions.

[0077] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 The end cap assembly 15 further includes a first electrode lead-out piece 157 and a second electrode lead-out piece 158. The first electrode lead-out piece 157 can be connected to the first end of the electrode post 153 and is insulated from the first cover plate 151. The second electrode lead-out piece 158 can be connected to the second end of the electrode post 153 and is insulated from the second cover plate 152.

[0078] Optionally, insulation between the electrode lead and the cover plate can be achieved by using an annular insulating bushing. Alternatively, a thermoplastic elastomer can be wrapped around the contact area between the electrode lead and the cover plate to form an insulating layer. Another option is to design a non-contact support boss on the cover plate, with the electrode lead fixed to the boss by insulating screws, maintaining an air gap between the electrode lead and the cover plate. In this way, the insulation between the electrode lead and the cover plate can block leakage paths and avoid the risk of short circuits caused by assembly errors or vibration.

[0079] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 The end cap assembly 15 also includes a first insulating sheet 159 and a second insulating sheet 1510. In order to achieve insulation between the cover plate and the electrode lead-out piece, the first insulating sheet 159 can be disposed between the first cover plate 151 and the first electrode lead-out piece 157, and the second insulating sheet 1510 can be disposed between the second cover plate 152 and the second electrode lead-out piece 158.

[0080] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 A portion of the structure of the first insulating sheet 159 can extend into the first mounting gap 1512 and fit against the first insulating ring 155. A portion of the structure of the second insulating sheet 1510 can extend into the second mounting gap 1522 and fit against the second insulating ring 156. Optionally, the end face of the insulating ring can be interlocked with the edge of the insulating sheet through chamfering or overlapping to form a continuous insulating interface, eliminating electric field concentration at the joint between the two.

[0081] In this way, the insulating ring can be nested in the mounting gap between the electrode post 153 and the through hole of the cover plate (such as the first mounting gap 1512 between the first through hole 1511 and the electrode post 153), surrounding and wrapping the side wall of the electrode post 153 along the axial direction of the electrode post 153 to block the radial leakage path between the electrode post 153 and the cover plate. The insulating sheet can be laid flat between the electrode lead sheet and the cover plate (such as between the first electrode lead sheet 157 and the first cover plate 151) to cover the contact surface between the electrode lead sheet and the cover plate, blocking the direct axial contact between the two.

[0082] In one possible implementation, refer to Figure 4 The electrode post 153 includes a first electrode post 1531 and a second electrode post 1532. The first electrode post 1531 can pass through the first cover plate 151 and is connected to the first electrode core 12 inside the first housing 11. The second electrode post 1532 can pass through the second cover plate 152 and is connected to the second electrode core 14 inside the second housing 13.

[0083] In this way, dividing the terminal post 153 into a first terminal post 1531 that passes through the first cover plate 151 and a second terminal post 1532 that passes through the second cover plate 152 allows for direct series connection between adjacent batteries 10. This design not only eliminates the need for traditional external connection bars and their installation space, but also makes the battery pack 1 more compact, effectively improving space utilization. At the same time, the direct connection between the terminal post 153 and the cover plate shortens the current path, reduces internal resistance and energy loss, and improves the charging and discharging efficiency of the battery pack 1.

[0084] In one possible implementation, one of the first terminal 1531 and the second terminal 1532 is a copper terminal and the other is an aluminum terminal. For example, the first terminal 1531 can be a copper terminal and the second terminal 1532 can be an aluminum terminal. Alternatively, the first terminal 1531 can be an aluminum terminal and the second terminal 1532 can be a copper terminal; understandably, the copper terminal is used as the negative terminal and the aluminum terminal is used as the positive terminal. The first terminal 1531 and the second terminal 1532 are used to connect the first electrode core 12 and the second electrode core 14 in series.

[0085] Understandably, by using copper-aluminum hybrid electrode posts 153, adjacent batteries 10 can be connected in series while effectively balancing conductivity, cost, and lightweight requirements. Specifically, copper electrode posts have excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance, ensuring high current transmission efficiency and long-term reliability; aluminum electrode posts, with their advantages of low density and low cost, reduce the weight and material cost of battery pack 1 while meeting conductivity requirements.

[0086] In the specific implementation process, refer to Figure 9 The series assembly process for two adjacent batteries can be as follows:

[0087] S1. The pole post 153 is inserted between the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152 through the first through hole 1511 and the second through hole 1521, and the first installation gap 1512 and the second installation gap 1522 between the pole post 153 and the first through hole 1511 and the second through hole 1521 are filled by the first insulating ring 155 and the second insulating ring 156.

[0088] S2. Connect one end of the first electrode lead-out piece 157 and the second electrode lead-out piece 158 to the two ends of the pole post 153 respectively, and connect the other ends of the first electrode lead-out piece 157 and the second electrode lead-out piece 158 to the first pole core 12 in the first housing 11 and the second pole core 14 in the second housing 13 respectively.

[0089] S3. Install the first insulating sheet 159 between the first cover plate 151 and the first electrode lead-out sheet 157, and install the second insulating sheet 1510 between the second cover plate 152 and the second electrode lead-out sheet 158.

[0090] S4. Align the first cover plate 151 of the assembled end cap assembly 15 with the end face of the first housing 11, align the second cover plate 152 with the end face of the second housing 13, and weld the flanges 1502 of the two cover plates to the end faces of the corresponding housings through a welding process.

[0091] S5. After welding is completed, insert the first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 of the insulating plate 154 into the installation gap between the first cover plate 151 and the second cover plate 152 from both sides.

[0092] S6. Fix the first plate 1541 and the second plate 1542 by means of the connection structure on the first connecting surface 1541a of the first plate 1541 and the connection mating structure on the second connecting surface 1542a of the second plate 1542.

[0093] Furthermore, this application provides a battery pack including the aforementioned battery pack 1. The battery pack can be used in electric vehicles, energy storage systems, aerospace, industrial equipment, and other fields.

[0094] Understandably, integrating the aforementioned battery pack 1 improves the space utilization and energy density of the battery pack. Specifically, the battery pack 1 adopts a cross-connected series design with terminals 153, which eliminates the need for external connection structures such as connector bars, making the internal structure of the battery pack simpler and allowing more batteries 10 to be accommodated in a limited space, effectively increasing the energy density per unit volume. Furthermore, the coordinated design of the split insulating plate 154 and the stepped insulating ring ensures the insulation reliability of the battery pack 1 under complex operating conditions, reduces the risk of short circuits, and enhances the safety and lifespan of the battery pack.

[0095] Furthermore, this application also provides an electrical device including the aforementioned battery pack. The electrical device can be an electric vehicle, an electric aircraft, an electric ship, a grid-scale energy storage power station, a home energy storage device, construction machinery, etc.

[0096] Understandably, by incorporating the aforementioned battery pack, electrical equipment can achieve improvements in range, operational stability, and overall performance. The high energy density design of the battery pack extends the operating time of the equipment; for example, it increases the driving range of electric vehicles, and energy storage systems can support power output for longer periods. Simultaneously, the insulation reliability design of battery pack 1 effectively reduces the risk of short circuits, enhances the operational safety of electrical equipment in complex environments, and reduces maintenance costs.

[0097] The various embodiments or implementation methods described in this specification are presented in a progressive manner. Each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments, and the same or similar parts between the embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0098] It should be noted that the embodiments referred to in the specification, such as "one embodiment," "embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," and "some embodiments," may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but not every embodiment necessarily includes that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, implementing such a feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not, is within the knowledge scope of those skilled in the art.

[0099] Generally speaking, terms should be understood at least in part by their use in context. For example, at least in part by context, the term "one or more" as used in the text can be used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic of the singular meaning, or a combination of features, structures, or characteristics of the plural meaning. Similarly, at least in part by context, terms such as "a" or "the" can also be understood to convey either singular or plural usage.

[0100] It should be readily understood that the terms “on,” “above,” and “on top of” in this disclosure should be interpreted in the broadest possible sense, such that “on” means not only “directly on something” but also “on something” with an intermediate feature or layer therebetween, and that “above” or “on top of” means not only “on top of something” but also “on top of something” without an intermediate feature or layer therebetween (i.e., directly on something).

[0101] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. An end cap assembly, characterized in that, include: The first cover plate is used to close the first housing. The second cover plate is used to close the second housing. The first cover plate and the second cover plate are spaced apart along the thickness direction of the end cap assembly and together define the installation gap. A pole post is inserted through the first cover plate and the second cover plate and is insulated from the first cover plate and the second cover plate. The first end of the pole post is used to connect to the first pole core disposed in the first housing and the second end of the pole post is used to connect to the second pole core disposed in the second housing. An insulating plate is disposed within the installation gap to insulate the first cover plate and the second cover plate. The insulating plate includes at least a first plate body and a second plate body arranged side by side and connected, the first plate body and the second plate body together surrounding the pole post.

2. The end cap assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ratio of the area corresponding to the outer contour of the projection of the insulating plate onto the reference plane to the area corresponding to the outer contour of the projection of either the first cover plate or the second cover plate onto the reference plane is 1-1.

2. The reference plane is perpendicular to the axis of the pole post.

3. The end cap assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer peripheral surface of the insulating plate is flush with the outer peripheral surface of either the first cover plate or the second cover plate.

4. The end cap assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first plate and the second plate have a first surface facing the first cover plate and a second surface facing the second cover plate. Wherein, the first surface of the first plate and the second plate are provided with first ribs extending along the outer contour of the insulating plate, and the first ribs of the first plate and the second plate together surround and cover the outer peripheral surface of the first cover plate. The second surfaces of the first plate and the second plate are each provided with a second rib extending along the outer contour of the insulating plate. The second ribs of the first plate and the second plate together surround and cover the outer peripheral surface of the second cover plate.

5. The end cap assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, Both the first cover plate and the second cover plate include a cover plate body and a flange protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the cover plate body; The flange of the first cover plate is used to connect with the end face of the first housing, and the first rib covers the outer peripheral surface of the flange of the first cover plate; The flange of the second cover plate is used to connect with the end face of the second housing, and the second rib covers the outer peripheral surface of the flange of the second cover plate.

6. The end cap assembly according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The first plate has a first connecting surface facing the second plate, and the second plate has a second connecting surface facing the first plate. A first clearance groove is formed on the first connecting surface, and a second clearance groove is formed on the second connecting surface. The first clearance groove and the second clearance groove together form a perforation through which the pole post passes.

7. The end cap assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, One of the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface is provided with a connecting structure, and the other is provided with a connecting mating structure. The first plate and the second plate are connected through the connecting structure and the connecting mating structure.

8. The end cap assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, One of the connecting structure and the connecting mating structure is formed as a buckle, and the other is formed as a slot, wherein the buckle is adapted to engage in the slot.

9. The end cap assembly according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The first cover plate has a first through hole for the electrode post to pass through, and a first installation gap is formed between the wall of the first through hole and the electrode post. The second cover plate has a second through hole for the electrode post to pass through, and a second installation gap is formed between the wall of the second through hole and the electrode post. The end cap assembly further includes: a first insulating ring and a second insulating ring, wherein the first insulating ring is disposed in the first mounting gap and the second insulating ring is disposed in the second mounting gap.

10. The end cap assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, Both the first mounting gap and the first mounting gap include a first gap segment and a second gap segment distributed along the thickness direction of the end cap assembly, wherein the aperture of the first gap segment is smaller than the aperture of the second gap segment. Both the first insulating ring and the second insulating ring include a first insulating segment and a second insulating segment, with the first insulating segment located in the first gap segment and the second insulating segment located in the second gap segment.

11. The end cap assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: First electrode lead-out piece and second electrode lead-out piece. The first electrode lead is connected to the first end of the electrode post and is insulated from the first cover plate; the second electrode lead is connected to the second end of the electrode post and is insulated from the second cover plate.

12. The end cap assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: A first insulating sheet and a second insulating sheet, wherein the first insulating sheet is disposed between the first cover plate and the first electrode lead sheet, and the second insulating sheet is disposed between the second cover plate and the second electrode lead sheet.

13. The end cap assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, A portion of the structure of the first insulating sheet extends into the first mounting gap and fits against the first insulating ring; A portion of the structure of the second insulating sheet extends into the second mounting gap and fits against the second insulating ring.

14. The end cap assembly according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The electrode post includes a first electrode post and a second electrode post. The first electrode post passes through the first cover plate and is connected to the first electrode core inside the first housing. The second electrode post passes through the second cover plate and is connected to the second electrode core inside the second housing.

15. The end cap assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, One of the first electrode post and the second electrode post is a copper electrode post and the other is an aluminum electrode post. The first electrode post and the second electrode post are used to connect the first electrode core and the second electrode core in series.

16. A battery pack, characterized in that, include: A plurality of batteries, wherein one of any two adjacent batteries includes a first housing and a first electrode core disposed within the first housing, and the other includes a second housing and a second electrode core disposed within the second housing; The end cap assembly according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the first cover plate of the end cap assembly is used to close the first housing, the second cover plate of the end cap assembly is used to close the second housing, the first end of the pole post is used to connect to the first pole core, and the second end of the pole post is used to connect to the second pole core.

17. A battery pack, characterized in that, Includes the battery pack as described in claim 16.

18. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, Includes the battery pack as described in claim 17.

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