A battery pack

Abstract

The utility model belongs to the battery field, concretely is a kind of battery pack. Overcome the problem that the local heat of monomer battery pole in existing battery pack is too high, and heat runaway is caused. Battery pack, including multiple battery components;Battery component includes battery module and two heat pipe assemblies;Battery module includes multiple monomer batteries;Two heat pipe assemblies are respectively arranged on two side polarity terminals;Each heat pipe assembly includes spliced conductive first hollow component and insulating second hollow component;In multiple battery components, heat pipe assembly is sequentially connected in series according to set order;The utility model heat pipe assembly directly contacts the polarity terminal of monomer battery, simultaneously based on heat pipe assembly series connection structure, realize the efficient balanced heat dissipation of polarity terminal, adopt splicing structure, realize monomer battery series connection, simplify battery pack structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of batteries, specifically a battery pack. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, most common battery packs are composed of multiple battery modules connected together electrically.

[0003] Battery pack temperature control has always been a hot topic in this field, and most existing battery packs use air cooling or liquid cooling to control the overall temperature of the battery pack. However, since the terminals of individual cells in the battery pack are the parts where heat is most concentrated, if the local heat of the terminals becomes too high, it is very likely to cause thermal runaway of individual cells in the battery pack. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a battery pack that overcomes the problem of excessive local heat at the terminals of individual cells in existing battery packs, which leads to thermal runaway.

[0005] The present invention provides a battery pack comprising n battery components arranged along a first direction; the battery components include a battery module and two heat transfer pipe assemblies.

[0006] The aforementioned battery module comprises m individual battery cells arranged along the second direction; where n and m are both integers greater than 1; the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular.

[0007] Both heat transfer tube assemblies extend along the second direction and are arranged in parallel along the first direction on the top of the battery module. One heat transfer tube assembly is located on m polar terminals on one side; the other heat transfer tube assembly is located on m polar terminals on the other side.

[0008] Each heat transfer tube assembly includes multiple first hollow components and second hollow components; the first hollow component is a conductive component that is connected to the polarity terminal of the individual battery cell to realize the series connection of the individual batteries in the battery module; the second hollow component is an insulating component that is connected between two adjacent first hollow components.

[0009] In the n battery components, in the outermost battery component along the first direction, the same side ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies serve as the total liquid inlet and the total liquid outlet, respectively; in the other outermost battery component along the first direction, the same side ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies are connected in series to serve as loop turning nodes; in the remaining ports, the heat transfer tube assembly ports of different battery components are connected in series in a set order.

[0010] After entering the main inlet, the coolant flows through one of the heat transfer tube assemblies of each battery component in sequence, and then through the loop turning node, it flows through the other heat transfer tube assembly of each battery component in sequence, and flows out from the main outlet.

[0011] This invention directly contacts the heat transfer tube assembly with the polar terminals (positive / negative electrodes) of the individual battery cell for heat dissipation, achieving preferential cooling of the battery tab / terminal area. This area is prone to localized high temperatures due to the current collection effect; direct cooling can rapidly reduce the temperature and effectively prevent hot spots from triggering chain reactions such as SEI film decomposition and lithium dendrite growth.

[0012] In addition, the heat transfer tube assembly adopts a splicing structure and can also be used as an electrical connector to realize the series connection of each individual cell in the battery component, making the structure of the entire battery component relatively simple.

[0013] In addition, the two heat transfer tube assemblies on the same side of one outermost battery component are used as the main liquid inlet and the main liquid outlet, respectively. The heat transfer tube assemblies of each intermediate battery component are connected in series in a set order. At the same time, the two heat transfer tube assemblies on the same side of another outermost battery component are connected in series as loop turning points. After the coolant enters the main liquid inlet, it flows through one heat transfer tube assembly (liquid inlet heat transfer tube assembly) in each battery component in sequence. Then, through the loop turning point, it flows through another heat transfer tube assembly (liquid outlet heat transfer tube assembly) in each battery component in sequence and flows out from the main liquid outlet.

[0014] This series-connected fluid path design allows the coolant to flow sequentially through each battery component, carrying away the heat generated by each component. During the coolant flow, each battery component receives relatively even cooling, avoiding temperature differences caused by insufficient or excessive cooling of some components, and achieving uniform temperature distribution across the entire battery pack.

[0015] Furthermore, the remaining ports mentioned above can be connected in the following two series connection methods:

[0016] First type of series connection:

[0017] On the main liquid inlet and main liquid outlet sides, on every two adjacent battery components, among the four heat transfer tube assemblies arranged sequentially along the first direction, the ports of the two adjacent heat transfer tube assemblies in the middle are connected in series, and the ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies on the outer side are connected in series.

[0018] On the other side (the side away from the main liquid inlet and the main liquid outlet), on every two adjacent battery components, among the four heat transfer tube assemblies arranged sequentially along the first direction, the ports of the two adjacent heat transfer tube assemblies in the middle are connected in series, and the ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies on the outer side are connected in series.

[0019] The second type of series connection:

[0020] On the main liquid inlet and main liquid outlet sides, on every two adjacent battery components, among the four heat transfer tube assemblies arranged sequentially along the first direction, the ports of two heat transfer tube assemblies that are alternately positioned are connected in series.

[0021] On the other side (the side away from the main liquid inlet and the main liquid outlet), on every two adjacent battery components, among the four heat transfer tube assemblies arranged sequentially along the first direction, the ports of two heat transfer tube assemblies positioned alternately are connected in series.

[0022] The first series connection method has a neat pipe layout with no intersecting pipes, making it easy to assemble. In contrast, the second series connection method has a more complex pipe layout, requires cross-connection of heat transfer pipe components, and is more difficult to assemble.

[0023] Furthermore, each of the above m individual cells has a first through groove extending in a first direction on its polar terminal, and the heat transfer tube assembly is installed in the first through groove.

[0024] The through-slot design provides precise positioning for the heat transfer tube assembly, reducing the risk of swaying and displacement of the heat transfer tube assembly during battery pack operation.

[0025] Furthermore, in order to improve connection stability and ensure efficient heat conduction and uniform current transmission, a stepped structure is provided on the outer wall of the first hollow component along the first direction. The horizontal surface of the stepped structure is flush with the end face of the side wall of the first through groove, and a welding connection is made at the joint between the horizontal surface of the stepped structure and the end face of the side wall of the first through groove.

[0026] Furthermore, the aforementioned polar terminals all include individual battery terminals and terminal extensions fixed thereon;

[0027] The electrode extension includes an electrical connection post and an electrode extension body;

[0028] The electrical connection post is located at the bottom of the electrode extension body and protrudes from the electrode extension body;

[0029] The first through groove is formed on the main body of the electrode extension member; the bottom of the first through groove is provided with a recessed structure that is recessed into the electrical connection post; the bottom of the recessed structure is connected to the electrode post of the single battery cell.

[0030] This invention is based on the aforementioned electrode extension member, which is fixed to the electrode post to increase the height of the electrode post, and serves as the polarity terminal of the battery as a whole. Simultaneously, this invention features a first through groove on the electrode extension member for mounting a heat transfer tube assembly, which is then fixed to the individual battery electrode post via a recessed structure at the bottom of the first through groove.

[0031] The heat generated by the battery terminals is first conducted to the terminal extension, which is in close contact with them. Because the terminal extension fits tightly to the terminals, heat can be transferred efficiently from the terminals to the extension. The first through-slot in the terminal extension is used to fix the heat transfer pipe assembly, ensuring good thermal contact between the heat transfer pipe assembly and the terminal extension. After heat is conducted to the terminal extension, it is further transferred to the heat transfer pipe assembly. The heat diffuses rapidly within the heat transfer pipe assembly and is dissipated through heat exchange between the heat transfer pipe assembly and the surrounding environment, thus achieving heat dissipation for the battery.

[0032] Furthermore, the recessed structure is a second through groove extending along the first direction, or the recessed structure is a blind hole recessed into the electrical connection post.

[0033] When the recessed structure is a second through groove extending in the same direction as the first through groove, the corresponding pole post extension can be integrally formed using aluminum extrusion. Compared to other recessed structures, such as blind hole structures formed by mechanical drilling, firstly, the integral extrusion forming process reduces processing steps and significantly improves production efficiency; secondly, the integral extrusion forming process ensures that the dimensions and shape of the second through grooves of each pole post extension are consistent, reducing structural errors caused by the drilling process and ensuring the accuracy of the dimensions and the stability of the structure of each part of the pole post extension; thirdly, blind hole structures require additional drilling or milling processes, which generate waste and increase processing costs, time costs, and material costs, while the second through groove structure is directly formed during the extrusion process, resulting in high material utilization and reducing production costs, time costs, and material costs.

[0034] When the recessed structure is a blind hole recessed into the electrical connection post, in terms of structural strength, the blind hole provides better structural integrity of the pole extension body compared to the second through slot structure. Because the second through slot has a continuous structure, stress tends to concentrate at the edge of the through slot when subjected to external impact or vibration, increasing the risk of cracks or damage to the pole extension. The blind hole structure, on the other hand, does not have such a weak point; its overall structure is more continuous and complete, effectively dispersing external forces and reducing stress concentration points, thereby greatly improving the reliability and durability of the pole extension under complex operating conditions.

[0035] Furthermore, compared to the second through-slot structure, the blind hole structure provides more stable support for the heat transfer tube. When the heat transfer tube is fixed within the first through-slot, in the second through-slot structure, the bottom of the heat transfer tube only contacts a limited portion of the bottom surface of the first through-slot. However, with the blind hole structure, the heat transfer tube is installed in the first through-slot, with a blind hole only forming in the center of the bottom surface of the first through-slot. The bottom surface of the first through-slot around the blind hole serves as a support surface for the heat transfer tube, providing a large and stable support foundation. This ensures that the heat transfer tube and the electrode extension maintain close thermal contact at all times, allowing heat to be continuously and efficiently transferred from the battery electrode through the electrode extension to the heat transfer tube.

[0036] Furthermore, the aforementioned pole extension also includes a conductive and heat-conducting pole; the conductive and heat-conducting pole is fixed in the recessed structure, the top of the conductive and heat-conducting pole is flush with the bottom of the first through groove, and the sidewall of the conductive and heat-conducting pole is in close contact with the inner wall of the recessed structure.

[0037] The addition of conductive and heat-conducting pillars significantly improves the performance of the terminal extension. In terms of conductivity, its fixed position within the recessed structure ensures a more stable electrical connection between the extension and the individual battery terminals, facilitating smoother high-current transmission during charging and discharging. This reduces energy loss and heat generation due to contact resistance, thereby improving charging and discharging efficiency.

[0038] In terms of thermal conductivity, its top is flush with the bottom of the first channel, and its sidewalls are close to the inner wall of the recessed structure, which shortens the heat transfer path from the battery terminal to the heat transfer tube. With its high thermal conductivity, it accelerates heat dissipation and reduces the risk of battery overheating.

[0039] Furthermore, the first hollow component and the second hollow component are sealed together by a stop-fit ​​structure. This facilitates connection while ensuring the sealing of the connection between the first hollow component and the second hollow component.

[0040] Furthermore, the inner wall of the aforementioned heat transfer tube assembly is provided with heat dissipation denticles. These denticles increase the heat exchange area and also improve the uniformity of heat dissipation.

[0041] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0042] This invention directly contacts the heat transfer tube assembly with the polar terminals (positive / negative) of the individual battery cell for heat dissipation, achieving preferential cooling of the battery tab / terminal area. This area is prone to localized high temperatures due to the current collection effect; direct cooling can rapidly reduce the temperature and effectively prevent hot spots from triggering chain reactions such as SEI film decomposition and lithium dendrite growth.

[0043] In addition, the heat transfer tube assembly adopts a splicing structure and can also be used as an electrical connector to realize the electrical connection of each individual cell in the battery component, making the structure of the entire battery component relatively simple.

[0044] In addition, the two heat transfer tube assemblies on the same side of one outermost battery component are used as the main liquid inlet and the main liquid outlet, respectively. The heat transfer tube assemblies of each intermediate battery component are connected in series in a set order. At the same time, the two heat transfer tube assemblies on the same side of another outermost battery component are connected in series as loop turning points. After the coolant enters the main liquid inlet, it flows through one heat transfer tube assembly (liquid inlet heat transfer tube assembly) in each battery component in sequence. Then, through the loop turning point, it flows through another heat transfer tube assembly (liquid outlet heat transfer tube assembly) in each battery component in sequence and flows out from the main liquid outlet.

[0045] This series-connected fluid path design allows the coolant to flow sequentially through each battery component, carrying away the heat generated by each component. During the coolant flow, each battery component receives relatively even cooling, avoiding temperature differences caused by insufficient or excessive cooling of some components, and achieving uniform temperature distribution across the entire battery pack. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery pack from a first-view perspective in Example 1;

[0047] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the battery pack from a second perspective in Example 1;

[0048] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the battery module structure in Example 1;

[0049] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the battery module in Example 1;

[0050] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery module in Example 1;

[0051] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection method of each heat transfer pipe assembly in the battery pack of Example 1;

[0052] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection method of each heat transfer pipe assembly in some other embodiments of the battery pack;

[0053] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the heat transfer pipe assembly in Example 1;

[0054] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the heat transfer pipe assembly in Example 1;

[0055] Figure 10 This is an exploded view of the heat transfer tube assembly in Example 1.

[0056] The attached figures are labeled as follows:

[0057] 1. Battery module; 11. Single cell; 12. Terminal post; 13. Terminal post extension; 131. Terminal post extension body; 132. Electrical connection post; 133. First through groove; 134. Recessed structure; 135. First through groove sidewall end face; 2. Heat transfer pipe assembly; 21. Stepped structure; 23. First hollow component; 24. Second hollow component. Detailed Implementation

[0058] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this utility model, not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0059] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Those skilled in the art can make similar extensions without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0060] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "top," "bottom," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0061] This utility model discloses a battery pack, which is mainly composed of multiple battery components. Each battery component includes a battery module and two heat transfer pipe assemblies fixed on the polar terminals on both sides of the battery module. By optimizing the connection method of the heat transfer pipe assemblies between each battery component, uniform heat dissipation of the polar terminals of the individual batteries in each battery component in the battery pack can be achieved, avoiding the occurrence of thermal runaway problems caused by excessive local heat at the polar terminals.

[0062] In traditional designs, heat transfer tubes are typically connected end-to-end in the same direction. As the coolant flows from the main inlet to the main outlet, it continuously heats up, resulting in a lower temperature at the polar terminals of the battery modules near the main inlet and a higher temperature at the main outlet. This temperature difference significantly affects the performance and lifespan of the battery pack. While parallel connection of heat transfer tubes can mitigate the temperature difference problem to some extent, the piping layout becomes extremely complex, increasing design and maintenance costs and reducing system reliability.

[0063] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention uses the same-side ports of two heat transfer tube assemblies in one outermost battery component as the main inlet and outlet; in another outermost battery component, the same-side ports of two heat transfer tube assemblies serve as loop transition nodes; and the remaining ports of all heat transfer tube assemblies are connected in series in a predetermined order to form a complete liquid circulation system. Driven by a circulation pump, the coolant enters from the main inlet and flows sequentially through one heat transfer tube assembly in each battery component, absorbing heat transferred from the polarity terminal to that assembly. Subsequently, it flows through the loop transition node to the other heat transfer tube assembly in each battery component, further absorbing heat from the other polarity terminal, and then exits from the main outlet. During this circulation process, each battery component receives relatively uniform cooling, effectively avoiding temperature differences caused by insufficient or excessive cooling of some battery components, and achieving a uniform temperature distribution across the entire battery pack.

[0064] In addition, the system only requires a pair of main inlet / outlet liquid ports to achieve the cooling cycle of the entire battery pack. Moreover, the main inlet / outlet liquid ports are located on the same side of the two heat transfer tube assemblies of the same battery component, which greatly simplifies the piping layout, reduces the complexity of the system, and improves reliability.

[0065] Meanwhile, by optimizing the structure of the heat transfer tube assembly, this utility model not only serves as a heat dissipation component but also as an electrical conductor to realize the series connection of multiple individual cells without the need for additional dedicated conductive connectors, thus simplifying the overall structural design of the battery component. In addition, since the heat transfer tube assembly simultaneously undertakes heat dissipation and electrical conduction functions, it reduces the number of parts in the battery component, thereby reducing assembly difficulty and cost.

[0066] It should be noted that:

[0067] The polarity terminal of the single battery described in this utility model can be a single battery terminal post, or it can be an integral structure of a single battery terminal post and a terminal post extension member connected thereto.

[0068] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0069] Example 1

[0070] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 The figures shown are schematic diagrams of the battery pack from different perspectives in this embodiment, including four battery components arranged along a first direction (where the first direction is the y-direction shown in the figure). In other embodiments, the number of battery components can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0071] Each battery component includes a battery module 1 and two heat transfer pipe assemblies 2.

[0072] The specific structure of the battery components is as follows: Figures 3 to 5 As shown in the figure, the battery module 1 in this embodiment includes 13 individual battery cells 11 arranged along the x-direction. In this embodiment, each individual battery cell 11 is a prismatic battery, and the internal cavity of each individual battery cell 11 includes an electrolyte region and a gas region. In other embodiments, the number of individual battery cells 11 can be adjusted according to actual needs, and the shape of each individual battery cell 11 can also be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0073] On the polarity terminal of each individual cell 11, a first through slot 133 is formed for mounting the heat transfer tube assembly 2. The first through slot 133 extends along the x-direction, that is, the length direction of the first through slot 133 is parallel to the x-axis. The inner cavity shape of the first through slot 133 is adapted to the cross-sectional shape of the heat transfer tube assembly 2, ensuring that the heat transfer tube assembly 2 is tightly clamped within it, so as to ensure installation stability and heat transfer effect between the heat transfer tube assembly 2 and the polarity terminal. Figure 5 As can be seen from the figure, this embodiment uses a rectangular first through groove 133, and the heat transfer tube assembly 2 adapted to it is a square tube.

[0074] Both heat transfer pipe assemblies extend along the x-direction and are arranged in parallel along the y-direction on the top of the battery module. One heat transfer pipe assembly is located on one side of the 13 polar terminals arranged along the x-direction; the other heat transfer pipe assembly is located on the other side of the 13 polar terminals arranged along the x-direction.

[0075] In this embodiment, each terminal post 12 of each individual battery cell 11 is connected to a terminal post extension 13 as a polarity terminal. Each terminal post extension 13 includes an electrical connection post 132 and a terminal post extension body 131. The electrical connection post 132 is located at the bottom of the terminal post extension body 131 and protrudes from the terminal post extension body 131; a first through groove 133 is formed on the terminal post extension body 131. Figure 5To facilitate the display of the first through groove 133, the heat transfer tube assembly 2 is not installed in one side of the first through groove 133. To facilitate the connection between the electrode extension 13 and the electrode 12 of the single cell 11, this embodiment provides a recessed structure 134 at the bottom of the first through groove 133 that is recessed into the electrical connection post 132; the bottom of the recessed structure 134 is connected to the electrode 12 of the single cell 11.

[0076] Specifically, the heat transfer pipe assembly 2 can be fixed to the battery module 1 through the following process: First, align the electrical connection post 132 of each terminal extension 13 with the terminal post 12 of the single cell 11 to ensure contact; then, connect the bottom of the recessed structure 134 and the terminal post 12 by through soldering. After all the terminal extensions 13 are fixed, fix one heat transfer pipe assembly 2 along the x-direction in the first through groove 133 of each terminal extension body 131 on one side; fix another heat transfer pipe assembly 2 along the x-direction in the first through groove 133 of each terminal extension body 131 on the other side.

[0077] In other embodiments, when the height of the electrode post 12 of the single cell 11 meets the requirements, the first through groove 133 can be directly opened on the electrode post 12 to fix the heat transfer tube assembly 2.

[0078] The inner cavity of the heat transfer pipe assembly 2 serves as a coolant flow chamber. After the heat from the electrode post 12 is conducted to the electrode post extension 13, it is further transferred to the heat transfer pipe assembly 2. The heat spreads rapidly in the heat transfer pipe assembly 2 and is dissipated through heat exchange between the heat transfer pipe assembly 2 and the surrounding environment, thereby achieving heat dissipation for the battery module 1.

[0079] Combination Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As can be seen, in this embodiment of the battery pack, each heat transfer tube assembly 2 adopts the following two series connection methods:

[0080] The first type of series connection: such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, Figure 1 and Figure 2 Taking the example of four battery components, Figure 6 In this example, a battery pack consists of three battery components.

[0081] Figure 6 In the diagram, the two straight lines extending along the x-direction at the top represent two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 in one battery component, the two straight lines extending along the x-direction in the middle represent two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 in the second battery component, and the two straight lines extending along the x-direction at the bottom represent two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 in the third battery component.

[0082] Total inlet and outlet settings: In the y-direction, select one of the outermost battery components ( Figure 6 The uppermost battery component has its two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 on the same side, with the main inlet and main outlet respectively (a in the figure is the main inlet, and b is the main outlet). The coolant enters the system through the main inlet and flows out through the main outlet after heat exchange.

[0083] Loop transition node setting: In the y-direction, place the other outermost battery component ( Figure 6 The two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 of the bottommost battery component are connected in series on the same side. The series connection point serves as a loop turning point (as shown in c in the figure), guiding the coolant to change its flow direction and forming a complete circulation path.

[0084] Remaining port connection rules (here, remaining ports refer to the ports remaining after excluding the ports on the same side of the two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 of one outermost battery component and the ports on the same side of the two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 of the other outermost battery component):

[0085] At the main inlet and main outlet of the battery pack ( Figure 6 On the left side of the middle battery component, among the four heat transfer pipe assemblies 2 arranged along the y-direction on every two adjacent battery components, the ports of the two heat transfer pipe assemblies 2 that are alternately positioned are connected in series; that is, the ports that are separated by one port in position are connected in series. Assuming that the ports of the four heat transfer pipe assemblies 2 are A1, B1, C1, and D1 respectively, then A1 and C1, and B1 and D1 are connected in series.

[0086] On the other side, that is, the side opposite to the main inlet and main outlet ( Figure 6 On the right side of the middle battery component, among the four heat transfer tube assemblies 2 arranged along the y-direction on every two adjacent battery components, the ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 that are alternately positioned are connected in series. Assuming that the ports of the four heat transfer tube assemblies 2 are A2, B2, C2, and D2 respectively, then A2 and C2, and B2 and D2 are connected in series.

[0087] After completing the above connections, the coolant should be supplied according to... Figure 6 The coolant flows in the direction indicated by the middle arrow. It enters the system from the main inlet and passes sequentially through one heat transfer tube assembly 2 of the uppermost battery component, one heat transfer tube assembly 2 of the middle battery component, and one heat transfer tube assembly 2 of the lowermost battery component. After passing through the loop turning point, it passes sequentially through another heat transfer tube assembly 2 of the lowermost battery component, another heat transfer tube assembly 2 of the middle battery component, and another heat transfer tube assembly 2 of the uppermost battery component, before flowing out from the main outlet, forming a complete circulation path within the system.

[0088] Coolant flows into the system from the main inlet and flows sequentially through one heat transfer tube assembly 2 of each battery component, absorbing heat and gradually increasing in temperature. When the coolant reaches the loop turning point, the flow direction changes, and it flows sequentially through another heat transfer tube assembly 2 of each battery component. Because the two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 are arranged in parallel, the inlet / outlet temperature difference of each battery component is basically the same, promoting temperature uniformity.

[0089] The second type of series connection: such as Figure 7 As shown, taking a battery pack consisting of three battery components as an example, and... Figure 6 Similarly, the two straight lines extending along the x-direction at the top represent two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 in one battery component, the two straight lines extending along the x-direction in the middle represent two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 in the second battery component, and the two straight lines extending along the x-direction at the bottom represent two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 in the third battery component.

[0090] Setting of main inlet, main outlet and loop turning points Figure 6 same:

[0091] Setting of main liquid inlet and main liquid outlet: In the y-direction, select one of the outermost battery components and set the ports of its two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 on the same side as the main liquid inlet and main liquid outlet, respectively (a in the figure is the main liquid inlet and b is the main liquid outlet). The coolant enters the system through the main liquid inlet and flows out through the main liquid outlet after heat exchange.

[0092] Loop turning point setting: In the y direction, the two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 of the outermost battery component are connected in series on the same side. The connection point is used as the loop turning point (as shown in c in the figure) to guide the coolant to change its flow direction and form a complete circulation path.

[0093] The rules for connecting to the remaining ports are different. Figure 6 :

[0094] At the main inlet and main outlet of the battery pack ( Figure 6 As shown on the left), on each pair of adjacent battery components, the ports of the four heat transfer tube assemblies 2 arranged along the y direction are connected in series between the two adjacent heat transfer tube assemblies 2 in the middle position, and the ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 on the outer side are also connected in series. Assuming that the ports of the four heat transfer tube assemblies 2 are A3, B3, C3, and D3 respectively, then A3 and D3, and B3 and C3 are connected in series.

[0095] On the other side, that is, the side opposite to the main inlet and main outlet ( Figure 7As shown on the right side, in each pair of adjacent battery components, the ports of the four heat transfer tube assemblies 2 arranged along the y-direction are connected in series between the two adjacent heat transfer tube assemblies 2 in the middle position, and the ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies 2 on the outer side are connected in series. Assuming that the ports of the four heat transfer tube assemblies 2 are A4, B4, C4, and D4 respectively, then A4 and D4, and B4 and C4 are connected in series.

[0096] contrast Figure 6 and Figure 7 It can be seen that, compared to Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, there are no intersecting pipes, making the connection relatively simple.

[0097] In this embodiment, the heat transfer pipe assembly 2 is also used as an electrical connector to realize the series connection of each individual cell 11 in the battery unit.

[0098] from Figures 8 to 10 As can be seen from the above, the heat transfer tube assembly 2 in this embodiment is a spliced ​​tube segment, which is spliced ​​together by multiple first hollow components 23 and multiple second hollow components 24. Since the heat transfer tube assembly 2 in this embodiment is an electrical connector, the part of its structure connected to the polar terminal must be a conductive component. At the same time, insulating components need to be set between the conductive components to prevent the single cell 11 from short-circuiting.

[0099] In this embodiment, the first hollow component 23 serves as a conductive component, typically made of metal, such as aluminum or copper; the second hollow component 24 serves as an insulating component, typically made of plastic or rubber with good thermal conductivity; combined with Figure 3 As can be seen, in this embodiment, the first hollow component 23 is connected to the polarity terminals of two adjacent single cells 11 with different polarities, realizing the series connection of each single cell 11 in the battery module 1. Each segment of the second hollow component 24 is connected between adjacent first hollow components 23, realizing the insulation between the two segments of the first hollow component 23.

[0100] To ensure the sealing of the connection between the first hollow component 23 and the second hollow component 24, this embodiment can adopt a stop fit structure at the connection between the first hollow component 23 and the second hollow component 24; or a threaded connection can be used to connect the first hollow component 23 and the second hollow component 24. To improve the sealing performance, a sealing ring can be added to the threaded connection.

[0101] To further improve the heat dissipation performance of the heat transfer tube assembly 2, this embodiment may also provide heat dissipation teeth in the first hollow component 23 and / or the second hollow component 24. Multiple heat dissipation teeth are arranged circumferentially along the first hollow component 23 and / or the second hollow component 24, and each heat dissipation tooth extends circumferentially along the first hollow component 23 and / or the second hollow component 24.

[0102] In this embodiment, the heat transfer pipe assembly 2 not only serves as a heat dissipation component but also as an electrical connector to realize the series connection of multiple individual cells 11, which has at least the following advantages:

[0103] Firstly, the elimination of the need for dedicated conductive connectors simplifies the overall structure of the battery component. In traditional battery modules 1, heat dissipation and conductivity are often handled by different components, requiring complex structural layouts and connection designs. In this embodiment, the heat transfer pipe assembly 2 integrates heat dissipation and conductivity functions, reducing the need for dedicated conductive connectors and making the overall structure of the battery component simpler and more compact, thus reducing design complexity and the probability of errors.

[0104] Secondly, since the heat transfer pipe assembly 2 simultaneously performs heat dissipation and electrical conductivity functions, it reduces the number of components in the battery structure, thereby lowering assembly difficulty and cost. Previously, separate heat dissipation pipes and conductive connectors were used, resulting in a large number of components, increased procurement costs, and requiring precise installation of each part during assembly, demanding high skill levels from assembly workers and leading to long assembly times.

[0105] Thirdly, the heat transfer tube assembly 2, as a series connector, is directly embedded in the first through groove 133 of the electrode extension 13, making full use of the space of the electrode extension 13 and avoiding the problem of additional conductive connectors occupying space, which is conducive to improving the integration of battery components.

[0106] Example 2

[0107] To improve the stability of the heat transfer tube assembly and ensure efficient heat transfer, this embodiment optimizes the structure of heat transfer tube assembly 2, the structure of which can be referred to... Figure 5 and Figure 10 On the outer wall of the first hollow component 23, a stepped structure 21 is provided along its length. The horizontal plane of the stepped structure 21 is flush with the end face 135 of the side wall of the first through groove. A welded connection is made at the joint between the horizontal plane of the stepped structure 21 and the end face 135 of the side wall of the first through groove. Figure 5 As shown.

[0108] It should be noted that the horizontal plane of the aforementioned step structure 21 refers to the connection surface between the large-diameter section and the small-diameter section of the first hollow component 23 in the z-direction.

[0109] A stepped structure 21 is provided on the outer wall of the first hollow component 23, and the horizontal plane of the stepped structure 21 is flush with the end face 135 of the side wall of the first through groove. At the same time, the joint is welded together, which has at least the following advantages:

[0110] Improved stability: The stepped structure 21 provides a larger welding contact area, making the welded connection more robust, reducing the risk of connection loosening due to vibration, and improving the overall stability of the battery components.

[0111] Optimize heat transfer efficiency: The horizontal plane of the stepped structure 21 is flush with the end face 135 of the side wall of the first through groove, ensuring a tighter contact between the heat transfer tube assembly 2 and the pole extension 13, reducing the tiny gaps between the contact interfaces, significantly reducing thermal resistance, improving heat transfer efficiency, and avoiding local hot spots caused by poor contact.

[0112] Furthermore, during the welding process, conventional welding operations may damage the structure of the heat transfer tube assembly 2 due to factors such as high temperature and stress concentration, thus leading to potential leakage. The stepped structure 21, however, with its horizontal plane flush with the end face 135 of the first through-slot sidewall, provides an ideal operating plane for laser welding along the z-direction, effectively preventing leakage caused by damage to the heat transfer tube assembly 2 structure during welding. When coolant (such as liquid coolant) flows within the heat transfer tube assembly 2, this design effectively prevents coolant leakage from the joints.

[0113] In addition, from Figure 5 As can be seen, after fixing the first hollow component 23 (heat transfer tube assembly 2) to the first through groove 133, due to the presence of the recessed structure 134, a non-contact area inevitably exists between the first hollow component 23 and the pole extension 13, affecting the heat transfer effect. To further optimize the heat transfer effect, this embodiment can also fix a conductive heat-conducting column inside the recessed structure 134. The top of the conductive heat-conducting column is flush with the bottom of the first through groove 133, and the sidewall of the conductive heat-conducting column is in close contact with the inner wall of the recessed structure 134. The conductive heat-conducting column can be made of a material with high electrical and thermal conductivity, such as an aluminum block. Aluminum has good electrical and thermal conductivity properties, which can effectively enhance the heat conduction efficiency between the pole extension 13 and the heat transfer tube assembly 2.

[0114] The addition of conductive and heat-conducting pillars further enhances the performance of the terminal extension 13. In terms of conductivity, the conductive and heat-conducting pillars fixed to the recessed structure 134, with their excellent conductivity, significantly stabilize the electrical connection between the terminal extension 13 and the terminal 12 of the individual battery 11. During battery charging and discharging, large currents can be transmitted more smoothly, greatly reducing energy loss and heat generation caused by contact resistance, thereby effectively improving the battery's charging and discharging efficiency.

[0115] From a thermal conductivity perspective, because the top of the conductive heat-conducting pillar is flush with the bottom of the first through groove 133 and its sidewall is tightly attached to the inner wall of the recessed structure 134, the path for heat transfer from the battery terminal 12 to the heat transfer tube assembly 2 is successfully shortened. Relying on its high thermal conductivity, the heat transfer speed is significantly accelerated, enabling the heat generated by the battery terminal 12 to be quickly conducted to the heat transfer tube assembly 2 and dissipated promptly, effectively reducing the risk of battery failure due to overheating.

[0116] Preferably, a thermally conductive adhesive layer may also be provided between the first through groove 133 and the first hollow component 23, and between the recessed structure 134 and the conductive and thermally conductive pillar. The thermally conductive adhesive layer may be made of silicone thermally conductive adhesive, which is made of silicone polymer as the matrix and combined with a high thermal conductivity filler material; or it may be made of acrylic thermally conductive adhesive, which can form a stable thermally conductive adhesive layer in a short time.

[0117] The thermally conductive adhesive layer disposed between the first through-slot 133 and the first hollow component 23 can tightly adhere to the outer wall of the first hollow component 23 and the inner wall of the first through-slot 133, thus fixing the heat transfer tube assembly 2. It has high adhesion; when applied between the outer wall of the first hollow component 23 and the inner wall of the first through-slot 133, it forms a strong adhesive force on the contact surface, effectively preventing the heat transfer tube assembly 2 from shaking within the first through-slot 133. This greatly improves the stability of the heat transfer tube assembly 2 installation, preventing loosening of the connection due to shaking and affecting the heat dissipation and conductivity of the battery component. Simultaneously, the adhesive layer significantly optimizes thermal conductivity. Unlike traditional direct solid contact methods, the adhesive layer can better adapt to different surface shapes and roughnesses. At the microscopic scale, even if there are slight unevennesses between the outer wall of the first hollow component 23 and the inner wall of the first through groove 133, the adhesive layer can fill these gaps through its own fluidity, forming an efficient heat conduction path. Similarly, the thermally conductive adhesive layer disposed between the recessed structure 134 and the conductive and heat-conducting pillar can also fill these gaps through its own fluidity, forming an efficient heat conduction path, even if there are slight unevennesses between the outer wall of the conductive and heat-conducting pillar and the inner wall of the recessed structure 134. This effectively avoids hotspot problems caused by local thermal resistance differences, further improves the heat dissipation efficiency of the battery component, and ensures that the battery component operates in a stable temperature environment.

Claims

1. A battery pack, characterized in that: It includes n battery components arranged along a first direction; each battery component includes a battery module and two heat transfer pipe assemblies. The battery module includes m individual batteries arranged along the second direction; where n and m are both integers greater than 1; the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular. Both heat transfer tube assemblies extend along the second direction and are arranged in parallel along the first direction on the top of the battery module. One heat transfer tube assembly is located on m polar terminals on one side; the other heat transfer tube assembly is located on m polar terminals on the other side. Each heat transfer tube assembly includes multiple sections of first hollow components and second hollow components; The first hollow component is a conductive component, which is connected to the polarity terminal of the individual battery cell to realize the series connection of the individual batteries in the battery module; The second hollow component is an insulating component, connecting the two adjacent sections of the first hollow component; In the n battery components, in the outermost battery component along the first direction, the same side ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies serve as the total liquid inlet and the total liquid outlet, respectively; in the other outermost battery component along the first direction, the same side ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies are connected in series to serve as loop turning nodes; in the remaining ports, the heat transfer tube assembly ports of different battery components are connected in series in a set order. After entering the main inlet, the coolant flows through one of the heat transfer tube assemblies of each battery component in sequence, and then through the loop turning node, it flows through the other heat transfer tube assembly of each battery component in sequence, and flows out from the main outlet.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that: Of the remaining ports, on the sides of the total liquid inlet and total liquid outlet, on every two adjacent battery components, among the four heat transfer tube assemblies arranged sequentially along the first direction, the ports of the two adjacent heat transfer tube assemblies in the middle are connected in series, and the ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies on the outer side are connected in series. On the side away from the main liquid inlet and main liquid outlet, on every two adjacent battery components, among the four heat transfer tube assemblies arranged sequentially along the first direction, the ports of the two adjacent heat transfer tube assemblies in the middle are connected in series, and the ports of the two heat transfer tube assemblies on the outer side are connected in series.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that: Of the remaining ports, on the sides of the total liquid inlet and total liquid outlet, on every two adjacent battery components, among the four heat transfer tube assemblies arranged sequentially along the first direction, the ports of two heat transfer tube assemblies that are alternately positioned are connected in series. On the side away from the main liquid inlet and main liquid outlet, on every two adjacent battery components, among the four heat transfer tube assemblies arranged sequentially along the first direction, the ports of two heat transfer tube assemblies positioned alternately are connected in series.

4. The battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Each of the m individual cells has a first through slot extending in a first direction on its polar terminal, and the heat transfer tube assembly is installed in the first through slot.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, characterized in that: On the outer wall of the first hollow component, a stepped structure is provided along the first direction. The horizontal surface of the stepped structure is flush with the end face of the side wall of the first through groove. Welded connection is made at the joint between the horizontal surface of the stepped structure and the end face of the side wall of the first through groove.

6. The battery pack according to claim 4, characterized in that: Each polar terminal includes a single battery terminal and a terminal extension fixed thereon; The electrode extension includes an electrical connection post and an electrode extension body; The electrical connection post is located at the bottom of the electrode extension body and protrudes from the electrode extension body; The first through groove is formed on the main body of the electrode extension member; the bottom of the first through groove is provided with a recessed structure that is recessed into the electrical connection post; the bottom of the recessed structure is connected to the electrode post of the single battery cell.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, characterized in that: The recessed structure is a second through groove extending along the first direction, or the recessed structure is a blind hole recessed into the electrical connection post.

8. The battery pack according to claim 7, characterized in that: The pole extension also includes a conductive and heat-conducting pole; the conductive and heat-conducting pole is fixed in the recessed structure, the top of the conductive and heat-conducting pole is flush with the bottom of the first through groove, and the side wall of the conductive and heat-conducting pole is in close contact with the inner wall of the recessed structure.

9. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first hollow component and the second hollow component are sealed together by a stop fit structure.

10. The battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner wall of each heat transfer tube assembly is provided with heat dissipation teeth.

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