A pole extension, a battery member, a battery pack, and a heat transfer pipe

Abstract

The utility model belongs to the battery field, concretely is a kind of pole post extension piece, battery component, battery package and heat pipe.Solve the problem that the heat of single battery pole post position in existing battery module is too high possibly causes thermal runaway.Pole post extension piece, including pole post extension piece main body, it is equipped with electric connection part, for being connected with single battery pole post;Two first through slots are equipped on pole post extension piece main body, two first through slots are used to cooperate with heat pipe, to form heat transfer medium flow sub-cavity between pole post extension piece main body and heat pipe inner wall.Battery component includes multiple single battery assemblies, and pole post extension piece is equipped on the pole post of single battery assembly, and battery package includes multiple battery components, and heat pipe is adapted with pole post extension piece, after heat pipe is installed to pole post extension piece, at least part of structure of pole post extension piece directly contacts with heat transfer medium directly, realizes the heat exchange of pole post extension piece, improves the utilization efficiency of heat transfer medium.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of batteries, specifically a terminal extension, a battery component, a battery pack, and a heat transfer tube. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, common battery modules (also known as battery packs) are composed of multiple individual cells (which are generally cylindrical or square) connected together in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel connections.

[0003] Temperature control of battery modules has always been a hot topic in this field. Most existing battery modules use air cooling or liquid cooling to control the temperature of the entire battery module. However, since the terminals of individual cells in the battery module are the parts with the most concentrated heat, if the local heat of the terminals is too high, it is very likely to cause thermal runaway of the individual cells in the battery module. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the issue of excessive heat at the terminal position of individual cells in existing battery modules, which could lead to thermal runaway, this invention provides a terminal extension, a battery component, a battery pack, and a heat transfer pipe.

[0005] The first aspect of this utility model provides a terminal extension member, including a terminal extension member body, wherein the terminal extension member body is provided with an electrical connection portion, the electrical connection portion being used to connect to the terminal of a single battery cell.

[0006] The aforementioned pole extension body is provided with two first through slots, which are arranged along the second direction, and each first through slot penetrates the pole extension body along the first direction;

[0007] The main body portion of the pole post extension located between the two first through slots is defined as the first part of the main body of the pole post extension;

[0008] Two first through slots are used to cooperate with the heat transfer tube, so that a heat transfer medium flow sub-cavity is formed between the first part of the pole extension body and the inner wall of the heat transfer tube; wherein the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular.

[0009] This invention aims to directly dissipate heat from the electrode post to achieve better heat dissipation. Specifically, this can be achieved by fixing a heat transfer tube to the electrode post. However, existing battery electrode posts are relatively short, making it difficult to install a structure to fix the heat transfer tube on them. Therefore, this invention provides the aforementioned electrode post extension, which is fixed to the electrode post to increase its height. Simultaneously, this invention provides a first through slot in the electrode post extension for installing the heat transfer tube.

[0010] This invention involves installing a heat transfer tube onto an electrode extension member, forming a sub-cavity for heat transfer medium flow between the main body of the electrode extension member and the inner wall of the heat transfer tube. At least a portion of the electrode extension member's structure is in direct contact with the heat transfer medium. After constructing the battery module, heat transfer tubes can be fixed on the electrode extension members where each individual battery cell is located on the same side, forming a heat transfer channel at the top of the battery module for heat exchange. The fact that a portion of the battery electrode extension member's structure is directly placed within the sub-cavity for heat transfer medium flow allows for direct contact between the electrode extension member and the heat transfer medium, achieving heat exchange through a shorter heat exchange path. The heat transfer medium acts directly on the electrode extension member, improving the utilization efficiency of the heat transfer medium and enhancing the overall heat exchange efficiency of the battery module.

[0011] Furthermore, the aforementioned electrical connection portion is an electrical connection post located at the bottom of the electrode extension body and protruding from the electrode extension body;

[0012] The first part of the main body of the aforementioned terminal extension member is provided with a recessed structure that is recessed into the electrical connection post; the bottom of the aforementioned recessed structure is used to connect with the terminal post of a single battery cell.

[0013] Furthermore, the aforementioned recessed structure is a second through groove extending along the first direction, and the main body of the pole extension and the electrical connection post are integrally formed by aluminum extrusion process; or the aforementioned recessed structure is a blind hole recessed into the electrical connection post.

[0014] 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.

[0015] 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.

[0016] Furthermore, the first part of the aforementioned pole extension body is provided with a functional structure for increasing the heat exchange area.

[0017] A larger heat exchange area means that more heat can be transferred under the same time and conditions. This is crucial for the stable operation of the battery module, effectively preventing performance degradation and shortened lifespan caused by overheating. At the same time, efficient heat exchange also results in a more uniform temperature distribution among the individual cells within the battery module, reducing inconsistencies in battery performance caused by temperature differences, further improving the stability and reliability of the entire battery module, and ensuring its efficient and stable operation under various working conditions.

[0018] Furthermore, the aforementioned functional structure includes at least one through hole in the first part of the pole extension body, the through hole penetrating the first part of the pole extension body along the first direction to allow the heat transfer medium to pass through.

[0019] When the heat transfer medium flows through the main body of the pole extension, the through holes allow the heat transfer medium to more fully surround the main body of the pole extension. Originally, it could only contact the surface of the pole extension for heat exchange, but now it can achieve internal heat exchange through the through holes, which greatly improves the amount of heat transferred per unit time and accelerates the heat dissipation speed on the pole extension.

[0020] Furthermore, a welding part is provided on the side wall of the first channel away from the heat transfer medium flow chamber, and the welding part is used to weld and fix it to the heat transfer tube.

[0021] The electrode extension and heat transfer tube are welded together, which can achieve a tight connection between the electrode extension and heat transfer tube. Compared with other connection methods, such as simple mechanical fixation, welding eliminates the tiny gaps between the connection parts, greatly reduces thermal resistance, improves the heat conduction efficiency between the two, and ensures effective heat transfer. Welding connection can also enhance the connection stability between the two and prevent the heat transfer tube and electrode extension from separating due to vibration and other factors when the battery is working, thus affecting the heat dissipation effect.

[0022] The second aspect of this utility model provides a battery component, including a battery module and two heat transfer tubes;

[0023] The aforementioned battery module includes n individual battery modules arranged along a first direction; wherein, each individual battery module includes an individual battery and the aforementioned terminal extension fixed on the terminal of the individual battery, and n is an integer greater than 1.

[0024] Each heat transfer tube has an extension opening on its tube wall to allow for the extension of the electrode.

[0025] Each heat transfer tube extends along a first direction, and two heat transfer tubes are arranged along a second direction, respectively embedded in the first through slots of each pole extension located on different sides. The first part of the main body of each pole extension extends into the inner cavity of the heat transfer tube through the pole extension clearance port. The pole extensions are sealed with each other, forming a heat transfer medium flow sub-cavity between the inner wall of the heat transfer tube and the first part of the main body of each pole extension.

[0026] This utility model inserts a heat transfer tube with a relief opening for the pole extension into the first through groove of each pole extension located on the same side, so that the first part of the main body of each pole extension extends into the inner cavity of the heat transfer tube through the relief opening of the pole extension, and seals the gap between the pole extension and the relief opening of the pole extension, forming two sealed heat transfer channels on the top of the battery module.

[0027] The heat generated by a single battery cell during operation is conducted to the heat transfer medium through the terminal extension, achieving efficient heat dissipation and effectively reducing the overall temperature of the battery module. This reduces battery performance degradation and lifespan shortening caused by high temperatures, ensuring that the battery module maintains good performance and stability under different operating conditions.

[0028] Furthermore, the aforementioned clearance opening includes n first clearance holes; the n first clearance holes are arranged at intervals along the first direction, and the n first clearance holes correspond one-to-one with each pole post extension on the same side of the battery module;

[0029] In each pole extension, the first part of the pole extension body extends into the inner cavity of the heat transfer tube through the corresponding first clearance hole.

[0030] Compared to a single elongated clearance opening, designing an independent first clearance hole for each pole extension makes sealing between the pole extension and the clearance opening much easier. Each hole can be sealed individually, ensuring sealing quality and reducing the risk of heat transfer medium leakage due to incomplete sealing.

[0031] In addition, compared to a single elongated clearance opening, setting an independent first clearance hole for each pole extension makes the heat transfer tube structurally more stable.

[0032] Furthermore, the aforementioned battery component also includes 2n sealing rings, each of which is fitted onto the first part of the main body of each electrode extension. The heat transfer pipe is welded to the side wall of the first through groove, and when the heat transfer pipe is welded to the side wall of the first through groove, the sealing ring is pressed to achieve a seal between the electrode extension and the first clearance hole.

[0033] The sealing ring fitted on the first part of the main body of each pole extension will undergo elastic deformation when the heat transfer tube is welded to the side wall of the first through groove and the sealing ring is pressed. This tightly fills the tiny gap between the pole extension and the first clearance hole, preventing the heat transfer medium from leaking.

[0034] In a vibrating environment, the sealing ring can absorb some of the stress caused by vibration, preventing damage to the sealing structure due to relative displacement between the pole extension and the first clearance hole, thus ensuring stable sealing performance under various complex working conditions.

[0035] Furthermore, using sealing rings for sealing is simpler and easier than some complex sealing processes, such as applying special sealant. During manufacturing, simply fitting the sealing ring onto the pole extension and then welding the heat transfer tube achieves a good seal. This helps improve production efficiency, reduce manufacturing costs, and also minimizes quality problems that might arise from complex manufacturing processes.

[0036] Furthermore, the heat transfer tubes are electrical conductors, enabling the parallel connection of each individual cell.

[0037] The aforementioned heat transfer tubes not only serve as heat dissipation components but also as electrical conductors to enable parallel connection of multiple individual cells, offering at least the following advantages:

[0038] Firstly, the elimination of the need for additional dedicated conductive connectors simplifies the overall structural design of the battery component. Secondly, since the heat transfer pipe simultaneously performs heat dissipation and conductivity functions, the number of components in the battery component is reduced, lowering assembly difficulty and cost. Thirdly, as a parallel connector, the heat transfer pipe is directly embedded in the first through slot of the electrode extension, making full use of the space in the electrode extension and avoiding the space occupied by additional conductive connectors. Fourthly, as a parallel connector, the heat transfer pipe ensures a more uniform current distribution among multiple individual cells, preventing individual cells from overheating and being damaged due to excessive current.

[0039] Furthermore, the electrolyte and / or gas are shared among the individual cells.

[0040] The electrolyte and / or gas inside each individual cell are interconnected, so that the electrolyte and / or gas of all individual cells are in the same system, reducing the differences between individual cells and improving the consistency between individual cells to a certain extent, thereby improving the cycle life of the battery components to a certain extent.

[0041] Furthermore, the aforementioned battery module also includes a housing; the top plate of the housing has a second clearance hole corresponding to the terminal extension of each individual battery module;

[0042] Inside the housing, n individual battery modules are arranged along a first direction; the main body of each terminal post extension extends out of the corresponding second clearance hole; the second clearance hole is fixedly sealed to the top plate area of ​​the housing and the individual battery casing.

[0043] Furthermore, the top plate of the outer casing is provided with an insulating sealant layer, at least a portion of the structure of the heat transfer tube is located inside the insulating sealant layer, and another portion of the structure is located outside the insulating sealant layer.

[0044] The battery components operate in a complex environment, which may be subject to humidity fluctuations. An insulating sealant encapsulates the heat transfer tube structure, forming a tight seal between the top of the outer casing and the heat transfer tubes. Due to the sealant's excellent sealing properties, it effectively prevents humid air from entering the battery component. Even in high humidity environments, moisture is unlikely to penetrate the insulating sealant layer and reach critical parts of the battery component, thus reducing the possibility of condensation formation at its source.

[0045] The third aspect of this utility model provides a battery pack, including n battery components arranged along a second direction; the battery components are the aforementioned battery components.

[0046] In the n battery components, in the outermost battery component along the second direction, the same-side ports of the two heat transfer tubes serve as the total liquid inlet and the total liquid outlet; in the other outermost battery component along the second direction, the same-side ports of the two tubes serve as loop turning nodes; in the remaining ports, the heat transfer tube ports of different battery components are connected in series in a set order.

[0047] After entering the main inlet, the coolant flows through one of the heat transfer tubes of each battery component in sequence, and then through the loop turning point, flows through the other heat transfer tube of each battery component in sequence, and flows out from the main outlet.

[0048] In this invention, the two heat transfer tubes on the same side of an outermost battery component are designated as the main liquid inlet and the main liquid outlet, respectively. The heat transfer tubes of each intermediate battery component are connected in series in a predetermined order. At the same time, the two heat transfer tubes on the same side of another outermost battery component are connected in series as a loop turning point. After the coolant enters the main liquid inlet, it flows through one heat transfer tube (liquid inlet heat transfer tube) in each battery component in sequence. Then, through the loop turning point, it flows through another heat transfer tube (liquid outlet heat transfer tube) in each battery component in sequence and flows out from the main liquid outlet.

[0049] 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.

[0050] The fourth aspect of this utility model provides a heat transfer tube, including a tube body, wherein an electrode extension member clearance opening is provided on the tube wall of the tube body, and the electrode extension member clearance opening is used for the first part of the electrode extension member body to pass into the inner cavity of the tube body.

[0051] Furthermore, the aforementioned terminal extension clearance includes n first clearance holes; the n first clearance holes are arranged at intervals along the first direction, and the n first clearance holes correspond one-to-one with each terminal extension on the same side of the battery module; for allowing the first part of the main body of each terminal extension to extend into the inner cavity of the tube through the corresponding first clearance hole.

[0052] Furthermore, a stepped structure is provided on the outer wall of the tube along its length, and the horizontal surface of the stepped structure is used for welding connection with the top of the first through groove sidewall of the pole extension body.

[0053] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0054] 1. This utility model provides the aforementioned electrode extension member, which is fixed to the electrode to increase the height of the electrode and serves as the polarity terminal of the battery. This utility model has a first through groove on the electrode extension member for installing a heat transfer tube. A heat transfer medium flow sub-cavity is formed between the main body of the electrode extension member and the inner wall of the heat transfer tube. At least a portion of the electrode extension member is in direct contact with the heat transfer medium. After constructing the battery module, heat transfer tubes can be fixed on the electrode extension members where each individual battery cell is located on the same side, forming a heat transfer channel at the top of the battery module for heat exchange. The fact that a portion of the battery electrode extension member is directly placed within the heat transfer medium flow sub-cavity allows direct contact between the electrode extension member and the heat transfer medium, achieving heat exchange through a shorter heat exchange path. The heat transfer medium acts directly on the electrode extension member, improving the utilization efficiency of the heat transfer medium and enhancing the heat exchange efficiency of the battery module.

[0055] 2. In the battery pack, this invention uses the same-side ports of the two heat transfer tubes of the outermost battery component as the main liquid inlet and the main liquid outlet, respectively. The heat transfer tubes of each intermediate battery component are connected in series in a predetermined order. At the same time, the same-side ports of the two heat transfer tubes of the other outermost battery component are connected in series as a loop turning point. After the coolant enters the main liquid inlet, it flows through one heat transfer tube (liquid inlet heat transfer tube) of each battery component in sequence. Then, through the loop turning point, it flows through another heat transfer tube (liquid outlet heat transfer tube) of each battery component in sequence and flows out from the main liquid outlet.

[0056] 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

[0057] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a pole post extension in Example 1;

[0058] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second type of pole post extension in Example 1;

[0059] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the second type of pole post extension in Example 1;

[0060] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the third type of pole post extension in Example 1;

[0061] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the third type of pole post extension in Example 1;

[0062] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the pole extension component in Example 2;

[0063] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the pole extension in Example 2;

[0064] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a single cell in Example 3;

[0065] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a single cell in Example 3;

[0066] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the battery component in Example 4;

[0067] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the battery component in Example 4;

[0068] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery component in Example 4;

[0069] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the heat transfer tube in Example 4;

[0070] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the battery component in Example 6;

[0071] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the battery component in Example 6;

[0072] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery component in Example 6;

[0073] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery component in Example 7;

[0074] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the battery pack structure in Example 8. Figure 1 ;

[0075] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the battery pack structure in Example 8. Figure 2 ;

[0076] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of one connection method for the heat transfer tubes in the battery pack of Example 8;

[0077] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of another connection method for the heat transfer tubes in the battery pack of Example 8.

[0078] The attached figures are labeled as follows:

[0079] 1. Terminal extension; 11. First through groove; 12. First part of the main body of the terminal extension; 13. Through hole; 14. Welded part; 15. Electrical connection post; 16. Second through groove; 17. Blind hole; 18. Main body of the terminal extension; 19. Stress hole; 2. Single cell; 21. Terminal; 3. Heat transfer tube; 31. First clearance hole; 32. Heat transfer medium flow sub-cavity; 33. Stepped structure; 4. Battery component; 5. Battery module; 6. Sealing ring; 51. Outer shell; 52. Second clearance hole; 53. Insulating sealant layer; 54. Insulating sealant; 541. Flexible insulating sealing ring; 542. Pressure ring; 8. Electrolyte shared chamber; 9. Gas shared chamber; a. Main liquid inlet; b. Main liquid outlet; c. Circuit turning point. Detailed Implementation

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] This utility model provides a terminal extension component, mainly used to extend the terminal of a single battery cell to fix the heat transfer tube and exchange heat with the battery module based on the heat transfer tube.

[0084] The electrode extension member includes an electrode extension member body and an electrical connection part disposed on the electrode extension member body. The electrical connection part is used to connect to the electrode of a single cell. Two first through slots for installing heat transfer tubes are also formed on the electrode extension member body. The two first through slots penetrate the electrode extension member body in a first direction and are arranged along a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular.

[0085] For ease of description, in this utility model, the main body of the pole post extension located between the two first through slots is defined as the first part of the pole post extension body.

[0086] This utility model also provides a single-cell battery assembly having the above-mentioned terminal extension and a battery component having such a single-cell battery assembly.

[0087] The single-cell battery assembly includes a single cell and the aforementioned terminal extension members fixed to the terminals of the single cell.

[0088] Each battery component includes a battery module (with individual battery cells arranged along a first direction) and two heat transfer pipes. The two heat transfer pipes extend along the first direction and are arranged along a second direction, respectively fixed in the first through slots of the electrode extensions on different sides of each individual battery cell in the battery module. After the heat transfer pipes are fixed in the first through slots, the first part of the electrode extension body of each electrode extension extends into the inner cavity of the heat transfer pipe, with a certain gap between it and the inner wall of the heat transfer pipe, serving as a sub-cavity for the flow of heat transfer medium. The heat transfer medium in the sub-cavity directly acts on the electrode extension body, improving the utilization efficiency of the heat transfer medium and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery module.

[0089] It should be noted that the above-mentioned battery modules can include at least the following three types:

[0090] Type 1 battery module:

[0091] The first type of battery module includes multiple individual battery components arranged along a first direction;

[0092] For ease of description, in this utility model, the arrangement direction of the individual battery modules is defined as the x-direction; the height direction of the individual battery modules is defined as the z-direction; and the direction perpendicular to both the x and z directions is defined as the y-direction.

[0093] Second type of battery module:

[0094] The second type of battery module adds at least one electrolyte sharing pipeline to the first type of battery module. Based on the electrolyte sharing pipeline, the electrolyte areas inside the cavities of multiple individual cells are connected to achieve electrolyte sharing, reduce the differences between individual cells, and optimize the cycle performance of the battery module. It may also include a gas sharing pipeline, which connects the gas areas inside the cavities of multiple individual cells to achieve gas balance and further optimize the cycle performance of the battery module.

[0095] Third type of battery module:

[0096] The third type of battery module, based on the first type of battery module, adds a shell, with multiple individual battery components arranged along the x-direction and placed inside the shell cavity.

[0097] This utility model does not specifically limit the above-mentioned shell structure, but at least the following two structures can be adopted:

[0098] The first structure includes a cylindrical body with open ends (i.e., the port parallel to the yz plane is the open end) and end plates fixed to the two open ends of the cylindrical body (i.e., the end plates are parallel to the yz plane).

[0099] The second structure includes a cylindrical body with open ends at the top and bottom (i.e., the port parallel to the xy plane is the open end) and a top plate and a bottom plate fixed to the open ends at the top and bottom of the cylindrical body respectively (i.e., the top plate and the bottom plate are both parallel to the xy plane, and the bottom plate or the top plate can be an integral structure with the cylindrical body).

[0100] A shared chamber is provided inside the aforementioned casing, which enables the connection of the internal cavities of each individual battery cell.

[0101] It should be noted that:

[0102] The aforementioned shared chamber can be an electrolyte sharing chamber, with its inner cavity connected to the inner cavities of each individual battery cell. This shared chamber ensures that each individual battery cell is in a uniform electrolyte environment, guaranteeing electrolyte homogeneity and improving the battery module's performance and charge-discharge cycle life. The electrolyte sharing chamber described here is a liquid channel extending along the length of the casing between the casing's bottom plate and each individual battery cell. This liquid channel can be integrally formed with the casing's bottom plate or formed by a support structure between the individual battery's lower cover and the casing's bottom plate. It should be noted that in the first type of casing structure, the casing's bottom plate here is a cylindrical bottom plate; in the second type of casing structure, the casing's bottom plate here is a base plate.

[0103] The aforementioned shared chamber can also be a gas-sharing chamber located on the top plate of the outer casing, covering the gas ports on the top of each individual battery cell in the battery module.

[0104] It should be noted that in the first type of shell structure, the top plate of the shell here is the top plate of the cylinder; in the second type of shell structure, the top plate of the shell here is the top plate.

[0105] It should also be noted that the gas port here has the following two meanings:

[0106] 1) The gas port is a through hole directly opened on the top cover of the single cell and penetrating the inner cavity of the single cell;

[0107] At this time, the gas-sharing chamber is connected to the gas area of ​​each individual cell through the gas port. Based on the gas-sharing chamber, the gas areas of each individual cell can be connected to achieve gas balance, so that the gas of each individual cell is shared to ensure the consistency of each individual cell and improve the cycle life of the battery module to a certain extent. When any individual cell experiences thermal runaway, the flue gas in the inner cavity of that individual cell enters the gas-sharing chamber and is discharged through the gas-sharing chamber, improving the safety of the battery module.

[0108] 2) The gas port is a vent or explosion-proof port installed on the top cover of the individual battery, and a vent membrane is provided at the vent or explosion-proof port.

[0109] At this time, the gas sharing chamber is used as a venting channel. When the venting membrane at the gas port of any single battery cell is ruptured by the flue gas in the inner cavity, the inner cavity of that single battery cell and the gas sharing chamber are connected, and the flue gas inside is discharged through the gas sharing chamber, thereby improving the safety of the battery module.

[0110] The aforementioned shared chamber can also be a gas-liquid shared chamber. Through a gas-liquid shared chamber, each individual battery cell can be placed in a unified electrolyte environment and gas environment, thereby improving the performance of the battery module and its charge-discharge cycle life.

[0111] A second clearance hole is made on the top plate of the outer casing corresponding to the terminal extension of each individual battery module; each terminal extension extends out of the corresponding second clearance hole, and the area of ​​the top plate of the outer casing corresponding to the second clearance hole is fixedly sealed with the outer casing of the individual battery, so that the second clearance hole area is sealed.

[0112] It should be noted that:

[0113] The area on the top plate of the outer casing corresponding to the second clearance hole can be the area around the second clearance hole on the top plate of the outer casing, or it can be the wall of the second clearance hole.

[0114] This utility model also discloses a battery pack, which is mainly composed of multiple battery components mentioned above. By optimizing the connection method of the heat transfer pipes between each battery component, uniform heat dissipation of the terminal extension of each individual battery in each battery component in the battery pack is achieved, avoiding the occurrence of thermal runaway problems caused by excessive local heat in the terminal extension.

[0115] 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 for the battery module terminal extensions near the main inlet and a higher temperature for the battery module terminal extensions at the main outlet. Excessive temperature difference can significantly affect 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.

[0116] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention uses the same-side ports of two heat transfer tubes in one outermost battery component as the main inlet and outlet; in another outermost battery component, the same-side ports of two heat transfer tubes serve as loop transition nodes; the remaining ports of all heat transfer tubes are connected in series in a predetermined order from the heat transfer tube ports of different battery components, forming 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 in each battery component, absorbing heat. Subsequently, it flows through the loop transition node and then sequentially through the other heat transfer tube in each battery component, further absorbing heat from the other electrode extension, before exiting 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.

[0117] 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 tubes of the same battery component, which greatly simplifies the piping layout, reduces the complexity of the system, and improves reliability.

[0118] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0119] Example 1

[0120] like Figure 1 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a pole extension member 1 in this embodiment.

[0121] As can be seen from the figure, in this embodiment, the pole extension 1 is designed as a rectangular block structure. The length, width and height of the rectangular block can be customized according to the actual application scenario to adapt to different battery specifications.

[0122] In some other embodiments, a cylindrical pole extension member 1 may also be used.

[0123] The pole extension member 1 includes a pole extension member body 18, on which two parallel first through slots 11 are formed. The first through slots 11 penetrate the pole extension member body 18 in the x direction, and the two first through slots 11 are arranged at intervals in the y direction.

[0124] The shape of the cross-section of the first channel 11 mainly conforms to the shape of the heat transfer tube 3 embedded in the wall of the first channel 11. It should be noted that the cross-section mentioned here is the cross-section obtained by cutting the first channel 11 along a plane perpendicular to the first direction. For example, as can be seen from the figure, the cross-section of the first channel 11 in this embodiment is rectangular, and correspondingly, the cross-section of the heat transfer tube 3 embedded in the wall of the first channel 11 is also rectangular, for example, it can be a rectangular tube. In some other embodiments, the cross-section of the first channel 11 can be arc-shaped, and correspondingly, the cross-section of the heat transfer tube 3 embedded in the wall of the first channel 11 is also arc-shaped, for example, a tube with a semi-circular cross-section can be used.

[0125] The width of the first through groove 11 (in the y direction) needs to ensure that the wall of the corresponding heat transfer tube 3 can be embedded, and there is a certain gap between the inner wall of the heat transfer tube 3 and the first part 12 of the pole extension body to allow the heat transfer medium to flow.

[0126] In this embodiment, the pole extension 1 can be made of a metal material with good electrical and thermal conductivity, such as silver, copper, aluminum, etc. However, considering the cost and the electrical and thermal conductivity, aluminum is generally chosen as the material for the pole extension 1, and it can be integrally formed by aluminum extrusion process.

[0127] To improve the connection stability between the heat transfer tube 3 and the pole extension member 1, this embodiment provides a welding part 14 on the side wall of the first through groove 11, which is then welded and fixed to the heat transfer tube 3. Here, the side wall of the first through groove 11 is the side wall of the first through groove 11 away from the first part 12 of the pole extension member body.

[0128] Specifically, there are two feasible welding methods. First, a large area of ​​the sidewall of the first through-slot 11 can be used as the welding part 14, and through-welded to the heat transfer pipe 3 to form a strong connection, effectively enhancing the bonding strength and heat conduction performance of both. Second, the top of the sidewall of the first through-slot 11 (a continuous plane extending along the first direction) can be used as the welding part 14. Welding can be performed along the contact area between the top of the sidewall of the first through-slot 11 and the wall of the heat transfer pipe 3, ensuring a uniform and continuous weld, thereby achieving a tight connection between the two.

[0129] Welding allows for a tight connection between the heat transfer tube 3 and the electrode extension 1. Compared to other connection methods, such as simple mechanical fixing, welding eliminates tiny gaps at the connection point, significantly reducing thermal resistance and greatly improving the heat transfer efficiency between the two, ensuring effective heat transfer. Simultaneously, welding enhances the connection stability, preventing the heat transfer tube 3 from separating from the electrode extension 1 due to vibration, impact, or other factors during battery component 4 operation. This avoids affecting heat dissipation and ensures the continuous and stable operation of battery component 4.

[0130] This embodiment can Figure 1 The bottom of the first through groove 11 of the electrode extension 1 shown serves as an electrical connection part and is welded to the electrode 21 of the single cell 2.

[0131] To accommodate the third type of battery module and facilitate the connection between the terminal extension 1 and the terminal 21, this embodiment may also include an electrical connection post 15 at the bottom of the terminal extension body 18, such as... Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the electrical connection post 15 is located at the bottom of the pole extension body 18 and protrudes from the pole extension body 18; in this embodiment, the pole extension body 18 and the electrical connection post 15 are an integral structure.

[0132] In this embodiment, the electrical connection post 15 has an overall columnar structure, and its cross-sectional shape is not specifically limited. It can be a quadrangular prism as shown in the figure, or it can be a cylinder, etc., mainly to adapt to the shape of the electrode post 21 to which it is connected. When the electrode post 21 of the single battery 2 to which it is connected is square, the electrical connection post 15 adopts a quadrangular prism structure, which can achieve a larger contact area during connection and ensure good conductivity and connection stability; when the electrode post 21 of the single battery 2 to which it is connected is cylindrical, the electrical connection post 15 adopts a cylindrical structure, and the two can fit better. The cross-sectional shape of the electrical connection post 15 is also adapted to the shape of the second clearance hole 52 on the top plate of the outer casing 51 in the third type of battery module described above.

[0133] To facilitate the connection between the terminal extension 1 and the terminal 21 of the single cell 2, such as Figures 2 to 5As shown, in this embodiment, a recessed structure is provided in the first part 12 of the electrode extension body, which is recessed into the electrical connection post 15; the bottom of the recessed structure is connected to the electrode post 21 of the single cell 2.

[0134] The recessed structure in this embodiment can be of two types. The first type is a second through groove 16 extending along the length direction (x direction) of the first through groove 11, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown. This recessed structure in the form of the second through groove 16 allows for integral forming processes such as aluminum extrusion when manufacturing the pole extension 1.

[0135] Another recessed structure can be a blind hole 17 recessed into the electrical connection post 15, such as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the diameter and depth of the blind hole 17 are determined according to actual design requirements. It is necessary to ensure that after the electrode extension 1 is connected to the electrode 21 of the single cell 2, there is sufficient contact area for electrical and thermal conductivity, while also considering the overall structural stability. The electrode extension 1 can be formed by drilling or milling processes during manufacturing.

[0136] The second through slot 16 and the blind hole 17 each have their own advantages and disadvantages, which are analyzed in detail below:

[0137] From a manufacturing process perspective, by adopting the second through groove 16, the pole extension 1 can be integrally formed through aluminum extrusion. Compared to the process of forming blind holes 17 by mechanical drilling, integral extrusion forming reduces processing steps and significantly improves production efficiency; it also ensures that the dimensions and shape of the second through groove 16 of each pole extension 1 are highly consistent, reducing structural errors caused by opening holes and ensuring dimensional accuracy and structural stability of each part. In addition, the blind hole 17 process generates waste, increasing processing, time, and material costs, while the second through groove 16 is formed directly in the extrusion process, resulting in high material utilization and lower costs.

[0138] In terms of structural strength, the blind hole 17 has a clear advantage. The through-hole structure of the second through slot 16, when subjected to external impact or vibration, tends to concentrate stress at the edge of the slot, increasing the risk of cracks or damage to the pole extension 1. The blind hole 17 structure does not have this through-hole weakness; its overall structure is more continuous and complete, effectively dispersing external forces and reducing stress concentration points, thus greatly improving the reliability and durability of the pole extension 1 under complex working conditions.

[0139] The bottom of the recessed structure can be connected to the terminal post 21 of the single cell 2 by welding. To eliminate welding stress, stress holes 19 can be opened at the bottom of the blind hole 17. Figure 5Stress holes 19 are opened at the bottom of blind holes 17. The diameter of these stress holes 19 is generally small and is determined according to the size of pole post 21 and welding process. They can effectively release the stress generated during welding, prevent weld cracking or deformation of connection parts due to stress concentration, and improve the reliability and stability of connection. Figure 4 , Figure 5 In the structure shown, in order to prevent the heat transfer medium from entering the blind hole 17 and forming a heat transfer dead zone, after welding, the blind hole 17 can be filled by a heat-conducting pillar. Alternatively, a through hole can be opened in the first part 12 of the pole extension body along the x direction for the heat transfer medium to pass through.

[0140] In some other embodiments, the bottom of the recessed structure can be connected to the terminal post 21 of the single battery cell via bolts. However, this method has certain disadvantages compared to the welded connection in this embodiment. Bolting requires machining threaded holes at the corresponding positions on the bottom of the recessed structure and the terminal post 21 of the single battery cell. This increases the machining process and complexity, and requires high thread precision. Any deviation in thread machining will affect the tightness of the connection. Welding, on the other hand, directly fuses the two together, eliminating the need for additional complex thread machining. From a conductivity perspective, bolted connections have gaps at the contact points, which can easily create contact resistance and affect current transmission efficiency. Welding eliminates these gaps, achieving efficient current conduction. In a vibration environment, bolted connections are affected by vibration, and the nuts may loosen, leading to connection failure. Welding effectively resists vibration, ensuring a stable connection.

[0141] from Figures 2 to 5 It can also be seen that the dimensions of the electrode extension body 18 and the electrical connection post 15 in this embodiment are somewhat different. In the first direction (x direction), the dimensions of the electrode extension body 18 are equal to the dimensions of the electrical connection post 15. This dimensional design makes the entire electrode extension 1 structure uniformly stressed in the x-axis direction, resulting in excellent stability. From a manufacturing perspective, the same length design facilitates unified dimensional planning and processing during production, reducing processing difficulty and improving production efficiency. In the second direction (y direction), the dimensions of the electrode extension body 18 are larger than the dimensions of the electrical connection post 15. This design is mainly suitable for the third type of battery module mentioned above. The smaller electrical connection post 15 can easily extend into the pre-drilled second clearance hole 52 on the outer casing 51, thereby connecting with the electrode post 21 of the single battery 2 inside the outer casing 51. The larger electrode extension body 18 can better distribute current and heat evenly. This effectively avoids the situation where the pole extension 1 is damaged due to excessive local current density or excessive heat concentration, and significantly extends the actual service life of the pole extension 1.

[0142] Example 2

[0143] In order to further improve the heat exchange performance of the above-mentioned pole extension 1, this embodiment, based on the pole extension 1 of embodiment 1, provides a functional structure that increases the heat exchange area on the first part 12 of the pole extension body. Such functional structure may include dot-shaped pits and protrusions on the outer wall of the first part 12 of the pole extension body, and may also include annular grooves on the outer wall of the first part 12 of the pole extension body, and through grooves on the first part 12 of the pole extension body, etc.

[0144] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, this embodiment uses... Figure 4 and Figure 5 Based on the structure shown, a through hole 13 is provided as an example of the functional structure. The through hole 13 penetrates the first part 12 of the pole extension body along the first direction. In practical applications, the size and number of through holes 13 can be flexibly adjusted according to specific needs, provided that the conductivity of the pole extension 1 is not affected. Setting the through hole 13 can increase the contact area between the pole extension body 18 and the heat transfer medium, thereby significantly improving the heat transfer efficiency. When the heat transfer medium flows through the pole extension body 18, it can more fully surround the pole extension body 18 through the through hole 13. Previously, the heat transfer medium could only exchange heat with the surface of the pole extension body 18, but now it can achieve internal through heat exchange through the through hole 13, which greatly improves the amount of heat transferred per unit time and accelerates the heat dissipation speed of the pole extension 1.

[0145] Example 3

[0146] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, a single cell 2 having the terminal extension member 1 of the above embodiment is defined as a single cell battery assembly. Figure 8 and Figure 9 To adopt Figure 1 Taking the pole extension 1 shown as an example, the pole extension 1 is fixed on the pole 21 by welding the bottom of the first through groove 11 to the pole 21.

[0147] Example 4

[0148] This embodiment describes a battery component 4, which includes a battery module 5 and two heat transfer pipes 3. The battery module 5 in this embodiment is the first type of battery module described above.

[0149] The specific structure is as follows: Figures 10 to 12As shown in the figure, the battery module 5 in this embodiment includes 12 individual battery modules as described in embodiment 3, arranged along the x-direction. In other embodiments, the number of individual battery modules can be adjusted according to actual needs. The positive terminal extensions 1 (the positive terminal extensions 1 are fixed on the positive terminal 21) of the 12 individual battery modules are arranged on one side, forming the total positive terminal of the battery module 5; the negative terminal extensions 1 (the negative terminal extensions 1 are fixed on the negative terminal 21) of the 12 individual batteries 2 are arranged on the other side, forming the total negative terminal of the battery module 5. In some other embodiments, the arrangement of the terminal extensions 1 of the individual batteries 2 can be adjusted according to the overall capacity requirements of the battery module 5 to adjust the series and parallel connection of each individual battery 2.

[0150] Each heat transfer tube 3 extends along a first direction, and two heat transfer tubes 3 are arranged along a second direction, respectively embedded in the first through slot 11 of each pole extension 1 located on different sides. In this embodiment, one heat transfer tube 3 is embedded in the first through slot 11 of the total positive terminal of the battery module 5, and the other heat transfer tube 3 is embedded in the first through slot 11 of the total negative terminal of the battery module 5.

[0151] When the heat transfer tube 3 is embedded in the first through groove 11, the first part 12 of the main body of each pole extension 1 extends into the inner cavity of the heat transfer tube 3 through the clearance opening of the pole extension 1 opened on the tube wall of the heat transfer tube 3. At the same time, a certain gap is reserved between the first part 12 of the main body of the pole extension and the inner wall of the heat transfer tube 3, which serves as a sub-cavity 32 for the flow of heat transfer medium. In order to prevent the heat transfer medium in the sub-cavity 32 from overflowing, it is necessary to seal the pole extension 1 with the clearance opening of the pole extension 1.

[0152] Sealing measures can be implemented using sealants that are resistant to high temperatures and corrosion and have good insulation properties, or by installing sealing rings or gaskets, to ensure the stable flow of the heat transfer medium within the closed sub-cavity.

[0153] Specifically, appropriate sealing measures can be selected based on the structure of the clearance opening, so as to... Figure 13 As shown, taking the structure of the heat transfer tube 3 in this embodiment as an example, its clearance is 12 first clearance holes 31 opened on the tube wall of the heat transfer tube 3; the 12 first clearance holes 31 are arranged at intervals along the x direction, and the 12 first clearance holes 31 correspond one-to-one with each pole post extension 1 on the same side of the battery module 5.

[0154] Corresponding to the above-mentioned clearance structure, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12 In this embodiment, a sealing measure is adopted by installing a sealing ring 6.

[0155] The specific installation steps are as follows: First, a sealing ring 6 is fitted onto the first part 12 of the main body of each terminal extension 1. Preferably, in the x-direction, the terminal extension 1 extends out from both sides of the sealing ring 6, and in the z-direction, the bottom of the sealing ring 6 is in close contact with the bottom of the first through groove 11, and the bottom of the extended terminal extension 1 is in close contact with the top cover of the single battery 2. This arrangement can stabilize the position of the sealing ring 6 and prevent the sealing ring 6 from shifting during installation, thus affecting the sealing effect. Next, pick up two heat transfer tubes 3, one corresponding to the positive terminal side of the battery module 5 and the other corresponding to the negative terminal side. Align the heat transfer tube 3 with the corresponding side of the first through groove 11 and insert it into the first through groove 11. During this process, it is necessary to ensure that the first part 12 of the main body of each terminal extension 1 with the sealing ring 6 extends into the first clearance hole 31 on the heat transfer tube 3 one-to-one. During the insertion process, the action should be smooth to prevent the heat transfer tube 3 from colliding with the terminal extension 1 and damaging the sealing ring 6 or causing the sealing ring 6 to shift. After the heat transfer tube 3 is initially embedded in the first through groove 11, welding is performed between the heat transfer tube 3 and the side wall of the first through groove 11. As welding progresses, the heat transfer tube 3 gradually fuses with the side wall of the first through groove 11. During this process, the pressure generated by welding exerts a uniform and continuous squeezing effect on the sealing ring 6 fitted on the first part 12 of the pole extension body. After being squeezed, the sealing ring 6 undergoes elastic deformation, tightly filling the tiny gap between the pole extension 1 and the first clearance hole 31, thereby achieving an efficient and reliable seal and effectively preventing the heat transfer medium in the heat transfer medium flow cavity 32 from overflowing.

[0156] The aforementioned sealing ring 6 also offers several advantages in the battery module 5. Under complex operating conditions, especially in vibrating environments, the sealing ring 6 can absorb some of the stress generated by vibration, preventing damage to the sealing structure due to relative displacement between the terminal extension 1 and the first clearance hole 31, thus ensuring stable sealing performance. From a structural stability perspective, when the battery module 5 vibrates or is subjected to external impacts, the sealing ring 6 acts as a buffer between the terminal extension 1 and the heat transfer tube 3, dispersing and absorbing some stress, reducing the direct impact force of the terminal extension 1 on the heat transfer tube 3, reducing the risk of material fatigue and damage to the heat transfer tube 3 due to localized stress concentration, improving its overall structural stability, and extending its service life. In terms of manufacturing, using the sealing ring 6 for sealing is simpler and easier than some complex sealing processes, such as applying special sealant. During manufacturing, simply fitting the sealing ring 6 onto the terminal extension 1 and then welding the heat transfer tube 3 achieves a good sealing effect, which helps improve production efficiency, reduce manufacturing costs, and reduce quality problems caused by complex processes.

[0157] In some other embodiments, the clearance opening may also be an elongated clearance hole formed on the wall of the heat transfer tube 3. The elongated clearance hole extends along the first direction, and the first part 12 of the main body of each pole extension 1 extends into the inner cavity of the heat transfer tube 3 through the elongated clearance hole.

[0158] Corresponding to the above-mentioned clearance structure, a sealing gasket can be used as a sealing measure. This type of sealing gasket has 12 third clearance holes arranged at intervals along the first direction; the 12 third clearance holes correspond one-to-one with each terminal post extension 1 on the same side of the battery module 5.

[0159] During installation: First, place the two sealing gaskets into the first through-groove 11 of the different side electrode extension members 1, ensuring that the first part 12 of the electrode extension body on each electrode extension member 1 protrudes through the third clearance hole on the corresponding sealing gasket. During installation, ensure that the bottom of the sealing gasket is tightly fitted to the bottom of the first through-groove 11 and the top cover of the individual battery 2. Next, pick up the two heat transfer tubes 3, one corresponding to the positive terminal side of the battery module 5 and the other to the negative terminal side. Align the heat transfer tubes 3 with the corresponding side of the first through-groove 11 and insert them into the first through-groove 11, ensuring that the first part 12 of the electrode extension body on each electrode extension member 1 extends into the elongated clearance hole on the heat transfer tube 3. After the heat transfer tubes 3 are initially inserted into the first through-groove 11, weld the heat transfer tubes 3 to the sidewall of the first through-groove 11. As welding progresses, the heat transfer tube 3 gradually fuses with the sidewall of the first through groove 11. During this process, the pressure generated by welding exerts a uniform and continuous squeezing effect on the sealing gasket fitted on the first part 12 of the pole extension body. After being squeezed, the sealing gasket undergoes elastic deformation, tightly filling the tiny gap between the pole extension 1 and the first clearance hole 31, thus achieving an efficient and reliable seal and effectively preventing the heat transfer medium in the flow cavity 32 from overflowing.

[0160] In this embodiment, for a heat transfer tube 3 on the same side, the heat transfer medium flows in from one end of the heat transfer tube 3, flows sequentially through the sub-cavities surrounding the first portion 12 of all the electrode extension members in the inner cavity of the heat transfer tube 3, and flows out from the other end of the heat transfer tube 3. A portion of the structure of the battery electrode extension member 1 is directly placed inside the heat exchange channel. The electrode extension member 1 is in direct contact with the heat transfer medium. In conventional heat exchange methods, heat needs to pass through multiple levels of transfer to achieve exchange. However, in this embodiment, the electrode extension member 1 is directly connected to the heat transfer medium, allowing the heat transfer medium to act directly on the electrode extension member 1 without energy loss in other intermediate stages, thus significantly improving the utilization efficiency of the heat transfer medium. This means that the same amount of heat transfer medium can play a greater role in heat transfer, greatly improving the efficiency of heat transfer. While improving the utilization efficiency of the heat transfer medium, the heat exchange efficiency of the entire battery module 5 is also greatly improved. The problem that might have caused battery performance degradation due to untimely heat exchange is solved by this efficient heat exchange design, thus ensuring that battery module 5 is always in good working condition, extending the service life of battery module 5 and improving its working stability.

[0161] In this embodiment, the heat transfer tube 3 can be an electrical conductor, and the material can be a high-purity aluminum alloy, such as 6063 aluminum alloy. This material has good electrical conductivity, with a conductivity of 30-35 MS / m at 20℃, which can meet the requirements for current conduction; at the same time, it has excellent thermal conductivity, with a thermal conductivity of about 200-230 W / (m·K), which can efficiently achieve heat dissipation.

[0162] In this embodiment, the electrode extension 1 on the same side of the battery component 4 has the same polarity, and the electrode extension 1 on different sides has opposite polarities. The two heat transfer pipes 3 are fixed on the electrode extension 1 on both sides respectively, so as to realize the parallel connection of multiple single cells 2.

[0163] Therefore, in this embodiment, the heat transfer pipe 3 not only serves as a heat dissipation component but also as an electrical conductor to realize the parallel connection of multiple individual battery cells 2, which has at least the following advantages:

[0164] Firstly, the elimination of the need for dedicated conductive connectors simplifies the overall structure of battery component 4. In traditional battery modules 5, heat dissipation and conductivity are often handled by different components, requiring complex structural layouts and connection designs. In this embodiment, the heat transfer pipe 3 integrates both heat dissipation and conductivity functions, reducing the need for dedicated conductive connectors and making the overall structure of battery component 4 more concise and compact, thus reducing design complexity and the probability of errors.

[0165] Secondly, since the heat transfer pipe 3 simultaneously performs both heat dissipation and electrical conductivity functions, the number of components in the battery component 4 is reduced, thus lowering the 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.

[0166] Thirdly, the heat transfer tube 3, as a parallel connector, is directly embedded in the first through groove 11 of the electrode extension 1, making full use of the space of the electrode extension 1 and avoiding the problem of additional conductive connectors occupying space, which is conducive to improving the integration of the battery component 4.

[0167] Fourthly, the heat transfer pipe 3, as a parallel connector, ensures a more uniform current distribution among the multiple individual batteries 2, preventing individual batteries from overheating and being damaged due to excessive current. The heat transfer pipe 3 is made of uniform material and has good conductivity; when used as a parallel connector, its resistance characteristics are consistent. According to electrical principles, current will be evenly distributed along paths with the same resistance. Therefore, after multiple individual batteries 2 are connected in parallel through the heat transfer pipe 3, the current can flow evenly to each individual battery 2, avoiding excessive current in individual batteries due to uneven current distribution, which could lead to overheating and damage. This effectively improves the overall performance and stability of the battery module 5.

[0168] To improve the connection stability between the heat transfer tube 3 and the electrode extension 1, and to ensure efficient heat conduction and uniform current transfer, this embodiment optimizes the structure of the heat transfer tube 3, such as... Figure 12 As shown, a stepped structure 33 is provided on the outer wall of the heat transfer tube 3 along its length. The horizontal surface of the stepped structure 33 is flush with the top of the side wall of the first through groove 11. The stepped structure 33 is welded to the joint between the horizontal surface of the stepped structure 33 and the top of the side wall of the first through groove 11.

[0169] It should be noted that the horizontal plane of the aforementioned stepped structure 33 refers to the connection surface between the large-diameter section and the small-diameter section of the heat transfer tube 3 in the z-direction.

[0170] A stepped structure 33 is provided on the outer wall of the heat transfer tube 3, and the horizontal plane of the stepped structure 33 is flush with the top of the side wall of the first through groove 11. At the same time, the joint is welded together, which has at least the following advantages:

[0171] Improved stability: The stepped structure 33 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 component 4.

[0172] Optimize thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity: The horizontal plane of the stepped structure 33 is flush with the top of the side wall of the first through groove 11, ensuring a tighter contact between the heat transfer tube 3 and the pole extension 1, reducing the tiny gaps between the contact interfaces, significantly reducing thermal resistance, and improving thermal conductivity; at the same time, the tight contact between the two significantly reduces the contact resistance, allowing the current to be evenly distributed between the heat transfer tube 3 and the pole extension 1, avoiding local current concentration or hot spots caused by poor contact.

[0173] Furthermore, during the welding process, conventional welding operations may damage the structure of the heat transfer tube 3 due to factors such as high temperature and stress concentration, thus leading to potential leakage. The stepped structure 33, however, has a horizontal plane flush with the top of the sidewall of the first through groove 11, providing an ideal operating plane for laser welding along the z-direction. This effectively avoids leakage problems caused by damage to the heat transfer tube 3 structure during the welding process. When the heat transfer medium (such as coolant) flows inside the heat transfer tube 3, this design effectively prevents leakage of the heat transfer medium from the joint.

[0174] Example 5

[0175] Unlike the above embodiments, this embodiment uses the second type of battery module, that is, an electrolyte sharing pipeline is set at the bottom of the battery module 5 in the above embodiments. The inner cavity of the electrolyte sharing pipeline is connected to the electrolyte area of ​​each individual battery cell 2, so as to realize electrolyte sharing, reduce the difference between each individual battery cell 2, and optimize the cycle performance of the battery component 4.

[0176] Example 6

[0177] This embodiment uses another battery component 4, such as... Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, unlike the above embodiments, the battery module 5 in this embodiment is a third type of battery module.

[0178] In this embodiment, the third type of battery module arranges 12 individual batteries 2 in the inner cavity of the outer casing 51, and each terminal extension 1 is located outside the outer casing 51. A heat transfer pipe 3 is fixed on the terminal extension 1 located on the same side. The structure of the terminal extension 1 and the heat transfer pipe 3 is the same as in the above embodiment, and will not be described again here.

[0179] A support extending in the x-direction is provided between the base plate of the outer casing 51 and each individual battery cell 2 to form a liquid channel, serving as an electrolyte sharing chamber 8.

[0180] The top plate of the outer casing 51 may also be provided with a boss extending in the x direction, and a gas channel is opened on the boss, which serves as a gas sharing chamber 9.

[0181] In this embodiment, the assembly of battery component 4 can be achieved through the following process:

[0182] First, place 12 individual batteries 2 inside the outer casing 51, and fix and seal the top plate of the outer casing 51 corresponding to the second clearance hole 52 to the outer casing of the individual battery 2.

[0183] In this embodiment, a sealed connection is achieved by welding the edge of the second clearance hole 52 near the single cell 2 to the upper cover plate of the single cell 2. This prevents external environmental interference from the gap between the second clearance hole 52 and the terminal post 21 into the internal environment of the high-capacity battery. Besides the welding method used in this embodiment, in some other embodiments, laser welding can also be used to weld the area around each second clearance hole 52 on the top plate of the outer casing 51 to the area around the corresponding terminal post 21 on the upper cover plate of the single cell 2.

[0184] Furthermore, due to the small gap size between the terminal 21 of the individual battery 2 and the second clearance hole 52, the insulation between the terminal 21 of the individual battery 2 and the top plate of the casing 51 may be difficult to ensure. Additionally, if thermal runaway occurs, cracks may appear at the weld between the second clearance hole 52 and the top cover of the individual battery 2, causing thermal runaway fumes to leak from that location. Therefore, if… Figure 16 As shown, in this embodiment, an insulating seal is provided in the gap between each second clearance hole 52 and the pole post 21. This insulating seal ensures insulation between the pole post 21 and the top plate of the outer casing 51. Furthermore, even if leakage occurs at the welding point, the insulating seal acts as a second barrier to prevent leakage of thermal runaway fumes. It should be noted that... Figure 16 In order to make it easier to show the position of the second clearance hole 52, no insulating seal 54 is provided on one side of the second clearance hole 52.

[0185] Therefore, after fixing and sealing the top plate of the outer casing 51 corresponding to the second clearance hole 52 to the outer casing of the single battery 2, the insulating seal 54 is set between each second clearance hole 52 and the terminal post 21. Then, the terminal post extension 1 (taking the terminal post extension 1 in Embodiment 2 as an example) is pressed tightly against the insulating seal 54. Finally, the terminal post extension 1 is welded to the terminal post 21 of the single battery 2. In order to ensure that the terminal post extension 1 can uniformly provide a pressing force to the insulating seal 54 and ensure the insulation and sealing performance of the insulating seal 54, in this embodiment, the insulating seal 54 includes a flexible insulating sealing ring 541 and a pressure ring 542. During assembly, the flexible insulating sealing ring 541 is first placed in the second clearance hole 52. Then, the pressure ring 542 is placed on the flexible insulating sealing ring 541. The flexible insulating sealing ring is a flexible stepped structure. The small diameter section of the stepped structure extends into the second clearance hole 52 and contacts the top cover of the single battery 2. The large diameter section of the stepped structure is located outside the top plate of the outer casing 51 and contacts the top of the top plate of the outer casing 51. The pressure ring 542 is a metal part.

[0186] In some other embodiments, the insulating seal may also be an insulating seal layer disposed at the gap between the second clearance hole and the pole post 21 by a casting process.

[0187] Finally, the heat transfer tube 3 is fixed to the pole extension 1 in the same way as in embodiment 4 above, and will not be described again here.

[0188] Example 7

[0189] This embodiment is based on embodiment 6, such as Figure 17 As shown, an insulating sealant layer 53 is laid on the top plate of the outer casing 51.

[0190] The insulating sealant layer 53 covers at least a portion of the structure of the heat transfer tube 3 and the pole extension 1, with the top of the heat transfer tube 3 exposed, which can serve as an electrical connection.

[0191] During the operation of battery component 4, internal temperature changes may cause water vapor condensation. The insulating sealant layer 53 can isolate external moisture, reduce internal humidity changes, and prevent water droplets from forming on the surfaces of heat transfer pipe 3 and electrode extension 1, thus preventing short circuits and component corrosion caused by condensation. In addition, partially enclosing the heat transfer pipe 3 and electrode extension 1 makes the connections between components tighter, reducing relative displacement between components under vibration, impact, and other conditions, and enhancing the structural stability of the entire battery component 4.

[0192] In addition, the insulating sealant penetrates into the sealing ring 6, which can further improve the sealing performance between the pole extension 1 and the clearance of the pole extension 1.

[0193] Example 8

[0194] This embodiment is a battery pack, such as Figure 18 and Figure 19 The figures shown are schematic diagrams of the battery pack from different perspectives in this embodiment, including four battery components 4 arranged along the y-direction as described in the above embodiment. In other embodiments, the number of battery components 4 can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0195] Figure 18 and Figure 19 Taking the battery component 4 in Example 6 as an example.

[0196] Combination Figure 18 , Figure 19 , Figure 20 and Figure 21 As can be seen, in this embodiment of the battery pack, each heat transfer tube 3 adopts the following two series connection methods:

[0197] The first type of series connection: such as Figure 20As shown, taking a battery pack consisting of three battery components 4 as an example, the two straight lines extending along the x-direction at the top represent the two heat transfer tubes 3 in one battery component 4, the two straight lines extending along the x-direction in the middle represent the two heat transfer tubes 3 in the second battery component 4, and the two straight lines extending along the x-direction at the bottom represent the two heat transfer tubes 3 in the third battery component 4.

[0198] In each of the two heat transfer tubes 3 of a battery component 4, the upper one can be the heat transfer tube 3 fixed to the total positive terminal, and the lower one can be the heat transfer tube 3 fixed to the total negative terminal.

[0199] Setting of main liquid inlet and main liquid outlet: In the y-direction, select one of the outermost battery components 4, and set the ports on the same side of its two heat transfer pipes 3 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.

[0200] Loop turning point setting: In the y direction, the two heat transfer pipes 3 of the outermost battery component 4 are connected in series on the same side, and the connected part is used as the loop turning point (as shown in c in the figure) to guide the coolant to change the flow direction and form a complete circulation path.

[0201] Remaining port connection rules (here, remaining ports refer to the ports remaining after removing the ports on the same side of the two heat transfer pipes 3 of one outermost battery component 4 and the ports on the same side of the two heat transfer pipes 3 of the other outermost battery component 4):

[0202] At the main inlet and main outlet of the battery pack ( Figure 20 On the left side of the middle battery component 4, among the four heat transfer tubes 3 arranged along the y-direction, the ports of two heat transfer tubes 3 that are alternately positioned are connected in series; that is, two ports that are separated by one port are connected in series. Assuming that the ports of the four heat transfer tubes 3 are A1, B1, C1, and D1 respectively, then A1 and C1, and B1 and D1 are connected in series.

[0203] On the other side, that is, the side opposite to or away from the main inlet and main outlet ( Figure 20 On the right side of the middle section, among the four heat transfer pipes 3 arranged along the y-direction on every two adjacent battery components 4, the ports of the two heat transfer pipes 3 that are alternately positioned are connected in series. Assuming that the ports of the four heat transfer pipes 3 are A2, B2, C2, and D2 respectively, then A2 and C2, and B2 and D2 are connected in series.

[0204] After completing the above connections, the coolant should be supplied according to... Figure 20The coolant flows in the direction indicated by the middle arrow. It enters the system from the main inlet, passes through one heat transfer pipe 3 of the uppermost battery component 4, one heat transfer pipe 3 of the middle battery component 4, and one heat transfer pipe 3 of the lowermost battery component 4 in sequence. After passing through the loop turning point, it passes through another heat transfer pipe 3 of the lowermost battery component 4, another heat transfer pipe 3 of the middle battery component 4, and another heat transfer pipe 3 of the uppermost battery component 4 in sequence, and flows out from the main outlet, forming a complete circulation path within the system.

[0205] The coolant flows into the system from the main inlet and flows orderly through one heat transfer pipe 3 of each battery component 4, 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 pipe 3 of each battery component 4. Because the two heat transfer pipes 3 are arranged in parallel, the inlet / outlet temperature difference of each battery component 4 is basically the same, promoting temperature uniformity.

[0206] The second type of series connection: such as Figure 21 As shown, taking a battery pack comprising three battery components 4 as an example, and... Figure 20 Similarly, the two straight lines extending along the x-direction at the top represent the two heat transfer tubes 3 in one battery component 4, the two straight lines extending along the x-direction in the middle represent the two heat transfer tubes 3 in the second battery component 4, and the two straight lines extending along the x-direction at the bottom represent the two heat transfer tubes 3 in the third battery component 4.

[0207] Setting of main inlet, main outlet and loop turning points Figure 20 same:

[0208] Setting of main liquid inlet and main liquid outlet: In the y-direction, select one of the outermost battery components 4, and set the ports on the same side of its two heat transfer pipes 3 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.

[0209] Loop turning point setting: In the y direction, the two heat transfer pipes 3 of the outermost battery component 4 are connected in series on the same side, and the connected part is used as the loop turning point (as shown in c in the figure) to guide the coolant to change the flow direction and form a complete circulation path.

[0210] The rules for connecting to the remaining ports are different. Figure 20 :

[0211] At the main inlet and main outlet of the battery pack ( Figure 21As shown on the left), on each pair of adjacent battery components 4, the ports of the four heat transfer tubes 3 arranged along the y direction are connected in series, and the ports of the two heat transfer tubes 3 located on the outer side are also connected in series. Assuming that the ports of the four heat transfer tubes 3 are A3, B3, C3, and D3 respectively, then A3 and D3, and B3 and C3 are connected in series.

[0212] On the other side, that is, the side opposite to the main inlet and main outlet ( Figure 21 As shown on the right side, on every two adjacent battery components 4, among the four heat transfer pipes 3 arranged along the y-direction, the ports of the two adjacent heat transfer pipes 3 are connected in series, and the ports of the two outer heat transfer pipes 3 are connected in series. Assuming the ports of the four heat transfer pipes 3 are A4, B4, C4, and D4 respectively, then A4 and D4, and B4 and C4 are connected in series.

[0213] contrast Figure 20 and Figure 21 It can be seen that, compared to Figure 20 , Figure 21 As shown, there are no intersecting pipes, making the connection relatively simple.

Claims

1. A pole post extension member, characterized in that: The device includes a main body for extending the terminal post, and the main body for extending the terminal post is provided with an electrical connection part, which is used to connect to the terminal post of a single battery cell. The pole extension body is provided with two first through slots, which are arranged along the second direction, and each first through slot penetrates the pole extension body along the first direction. The main body portion of the pole post extension located between the two first through slots is defined as the first part of the main body of the pole post extension; Two first through slots are used to cooperate with the heat transfer tube, so that a heat transfer medium flow sub-cavity is formed between the first part of the pole extension body and the inner wall of the heat transfer tube; wherein the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular.

2. The pole extension member according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electrical connection part is an electrical connection post located at the bottom of the electrode extension body and protruding from the electrode extension body; The first part of the electrode extension body is provided with a recessed structure that is recessed into the electrical connection post; the bottom of the recessed structure is used to connect with the electrode post of a single battery cell.

3. The pole extension member according to claim 2, characterized in that: The recessed structure is a second through groove extending along the first direction, and the main body of the pole extension and the electrical connection post are integrally formed by aluminum extrusion process; or the recessed structure is a blind hole recessed into the electrical connection post.

4. The pole extension member according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first part of the pole extension body is provided with a functional structure for increasing the heat exchange area.

5. The pole extension member according to claim 4, characterized in that: The functional structure is at least one through hole opened in the first part of the pole extension body, the through hole penetrating the first part of the pole extension body along the first direction to allow the heat transfer medium to pass through.

6. The pole extension member according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sidewall of the first through groove away from the heat transfer medium flow chamber is provided with a welding part, which is used to weld and fix it to the heat transfer tube.

7. A battery component, characterized in that: Includes a battery module and two heat transfer pipes; The battery module includes n individual battery modules arranged along a first direction; wherein, each individual battery module includes an individual battery and an extension member of the terminal block as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, which is fixed on the terminal block of the individual battery, and n is an integer greater than 1. Each heat transfer tube has an extension opening on its tube wall to allow for the extension of the electrode. Each heat transfer tube extends along a first direction, and two heat transfer tubes are arranged along a second direction, respectively embedded in the first through slots of each pole extension located on different sides. The first part of the main body of each pole extension extends into the inner cavity of the heat transfer tube through the pole extension clearance port. The pole extensions are sealed with each other, forming a heat transfer medium flow sub-cavity between the inner wall of the heat transfer tube and the first part of the main body of each pole extension.

8. The battery component according to claim 7, characterized in that: The clearance includes n first clearance holes; the n first clearance holes are arranged at intervals along the first direction, and the n first clearance holes correspond one-to-one with each pole post extension on the same side of the battery module; In each pole extension, the first part of the pole extension body extends into the inner cavity of the heat transfer tube through the corresponding first clearance hole.

9. The battery component according to claim 8, characterized in that: It also includes 2n sealing rings, each of which is fitted onto the first part of the main body of each pole extension. The heat transfer tube is welded to the side wall of the first through groove, and when the heat transfer tube is welded to the side wall of the first through groove, the sealing ring is pressed to achieve a seal between the pole extension and the first clearance hole.

10. The battery component according to claim 7, characterized in that: The heat transfer tubes are electrical conductors, enabling the parallel connection of individual battery modules.

11. The battery component according to any one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that: The electrolyte and / or gas are shared among the individual cells.

12. The battery component according to claim 11, characterized in that: The battery module also includes a housing; the top plate of the housing has a second clearance hole corresponding to the terminal extension of each individual battery module. Inside the housing of n individual battery modules arranged along the first direction; each terminal extension extends out of the corresponding second clearance hole; The second clearance hole corresponds to the area of ​​the top plate of the outer casing and is fixedly sealed to the individual battery casing.

13. The battery component according to claim 12, characterized in that: The top plate of the outer casing is provided with an insulating sealant layer, at least a portion of the structure of the heat transfer tube is located inside the insulating sealant layer, and another portion of the structure is located outside the insulating sealant layer.

14. A battery pack, characterized in that: Includes n battery components as described in any one of claims 7 to 13 arranged along the second direction; In the n battery components, in the outermost battery component along the second direction, the same-side ports of the two heat transfer tubes serve as the total liquid inlet and the total liquid outlet; in the other outermost battery component along the second direction, the same-side ports of the two tubes serve as loop turning nodes; in the remaining ports, the heat transfer tube 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 tubes of each battery component in sequence, and then through the loop turning point, flows through the other heat transfer tube of each battery component in sequence, and flows out from the main outlet.

15. A heat transfer tube, characterized in that: The device includes a tube body, and the tube body has a pole extension member clearance opening on its wall. The pole extension member clearance opening is used to allow the first part of the pole extension member body to penetrate into the inner cavity of the tube body.

16. The heat transfer tube according to claim 15, characterized in that: The electrode extension clearance includes n first clearance holes; the n first clearance holes are arranged at intervals along a first direction, and the n first clearance holes correspond one-to-one with each electrode extension on the same side of the battery module; for allowing the first part of the electrode extension body in each electrode extension to extend into the inner cavity of the tube through the corresponding first clearance hole.

17. The heat transfer tube according to claim 15, characterized in that: On the outer wall of the tube, a stepped structure is provided along its length. The horizontal surface of the stepped structure is used for welding connection with the top of the first through groove sidewall of the pole extension body.

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