A battery device and an electric device

Abstract

The application discloses a battery device and a power utilization device. The battery device comprises a plurality of battery monomers and a heat management component in contact with the plurality of battery monomers, the heat management component being configured to exchange heat with the battery monomers, the heat management component being provided with a heat exchange flow channel and an isothermal pipeline, the isothermal pipeline and the heat exchange flow channel being arranged at intervals, the isothermal pipeline being used to fill a phase change medium, and the heat exchange flow channel being used to flow a heat exchange medium. Thus, the heat management component is simultaneously provided with the heat exchange flow channel and the isothermal pipeline in an integrated manner, the isothermal pipeline is used to fill the phase change medium, and the heat exchange flow channel is used to flow the heat exchange medium. The battery device can cool the plurality of battery monomers through the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange flow channel, and can also reduce the temperature difference between the plurality of battery monomers through the isothermal pipeline, thereby improving the overall performance of the battery device.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202520862656.8, filed on April 30, 2023, entitled “A Battery Device and an Electrical Apparatus”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a battery device and an electrical device. Background Technology

[0003] Energy conservation and emission reduction are key to sustainable development, which in turn promotes the adjustment of the energy structure and drives the development and application of battery technology. The key to the development of battery technology lies in electrochemical energy storage technology. Due to its advantages such as high energy density, good cycle capability, high operating voltage, environmental friendliness, and low self-discharge, it has been widely used in portable electronics, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems.

[0004] The battery device includes multiple closely spaced battery cells and components for thermal management of the multiple battery cells. However, the multiple battery cells may have large temperature differences during charging and discharging, resulting in poor overall performance of the battery device. Utility Model Content

[0005] The main purpose of this application is to provide a battery device and an electrical device that aims to solve the technical problem of large temperature differences between multiple battery cells during charging and discharging in the prior art.

[0006] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides a battery device comprising multiple battery cells and a thermal management component. The thermal management component contacts the multiple battery cells and is configured to exchange heat with them. The thermal management component includes a heat exchange channel and a temperature equalization pipe, which are spaced apart. The temperature equalization pipe is filled with a phase change medium, and the heat exchange channel is used for the flow of the heat exchange medium. Thus, the thermal management component integrates both the heat exchange channel and the temperature equalization pipe. The temperature equalization pipe is filled with the phase change medium, and the heat exchange channel is used for the flow of the heat exchange medium. This allows for cooling of the multiple battery cells through the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channel, while simultaneously reducing the temperature difference between the multiple battery cells through the temperature equalization pipe, thereby improving the overall performance of the battery device.

[0007] In some embodiments, the thermal management component has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, which are respectively connected to the heat exchange channel, and the temperature equalization pipe is a closed space. Thus, the fluid inlet and fluid outlet being connected to the heat exchange channel facilitates the replacement of the heat exchange medium within the channel, improving the cooling efficiency for multiple battery cells. Furthermore, the closed nature of the temperature equalization pipe ensures that the phase change medium remains continuously within the pipe, making it easier to reduce the temperature difference between multiple battery cells.

[0008] In some embodiments, the orthographic projections of at least two of the battery cells onto the thermal management component lie on the same heat exchanger pipe. Therefore, having at least two battery cells projected onto the same heat exchanger pipe facilitates heat exchanger treatment of the two battery cells, reducing the temperature difference between the battery cells.

[0009] In some embodiments, the heat exchange channel includes a plurality of spaced-apart branch channels, and the number of temperature equalization pipes is also plurality of, with at least one temperature equalization pipe between two branch channels. Thus, having at least one temperature equalization pipe between two branch channels allows for the improvement of the heat exchange efficiency and temperature equalization efficiency of the thermal management components through the rational arrangement of the temperature equalization pipes and heat exchange channels.

[0010] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of each battery cell onto the thermal management component lies on a plurality of branch flow channels. Thus, since the orthographic projection of each battery cell onto the thermal management component lies on a plurality of branch flow channels, heat exchange can be performed on a single battery cell through multiple branch flow channels, further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cell.

[0011] In some embodiments, the plurality of branch channels and the heat exchange pipe jointly define at least one cooling zone. Within the same cooling zone, each branch channel extends along a first direction, and the plurality of branch channels are spaced apart in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The heat exchange pipe extends along the first direction, and at least one heat exchange pipe is provided between two branch channels that are at least partially spaced apart in the second direction. Thus, having at least one heat exchange pipe between two branch channels that are at least partially spaced apart in the second direction allows for a more efficient arrangement of the heat exchange pipe and heat exchange channels, thereby further improving the heat exchange efficiency and heat exchange uniformity of the thermal management components.

[0012] In some embodiments, the number of cooling regions is multiple, and the multiple cooling regions are spaced apart in the first direction. Therefore, by arranging multiple cooling regions spaced apart in the first direction, the thermal management component can simultaneously perform heat exchange and temperature equalization for a larger number of battery cells, reducing the temperature difference between multiple battery cells and improving the overall performance of the battery device.

[0013] In some embodiments, the branch flow channel includes a plurality of branch sub-flow channels, which are spaced apart along the second direction and interconnected. Thus, the spaced-apart branch sub-flow channels, being interconnected, facilitate heat exchange for a single battery cell through multiple branch sub-flow channels, further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cell.

[0014] In some embodiments, the heat exchange channel includes a connecting channel, which is spaced apart from the equalization pipe in the first direction and connects two adjacent branch sub-channels in the second direction. Thus, by connecting two adjacent branch sub-channels in the second direction through the connecting channel, the heat exchange medium between multiple branch sub-channels can flow between each other, further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cells.

[0015] In some embodiments, the two ends of the branch flow channel in the first direction are defined as a first end and a second end. The heat exchange flow channel includes a plurality of main flow channels, each of which extends along the second direction. The cooling region has main flow channels on both sides in the first direction. The main flow channel near the first end is defined as a first main flow channel, and the main flow channel near the second end is defined as a second main flow channel. In the same cooling region, the first end of at least one branch flow channel is connected to the first main flow channel, and the second end of at least one branch flow channel is connected to the second main flow channel. Thus, in the same cooling region, the first end of at least one branch flow channel is connected to the first main flow channel, and the second end of at least one branch flow channel is connected to the second main flow channel, which facilitates the mutual flow of heat exchange medium between the branch flow channels and further improves the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cells.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first ends of two adjacent branch channels located in the middle of the second direction are connected to the first main channel, and the second ends of two branch channels located at both ends of the second direction are connected to the second main channel. Therefore, the connection between the first ends of the two adjacent branch channels located in the middle of the second direction and the first main channel, and the connection between the second ends of the two branch channels located at both ends of the second direction and the second main channel, allows for smoother flow of the heat exchange medium between the branch channels and the main channel, further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cells.

[0017] In some embodiments, the number of cooling zones includes two, which are spaced apart in the first direction, and the second main flow channels of the two cooling zones are correspondingly connected. This corresponding connection of the second main flow channels of the two cooling zones allows the heat exchange medium in different cooling zones to flow into each other, further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cells.

[0018] In some embodiments, the thermal management component has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, which are respectively connected to the heat exchange channel. The fluid inlet and the fluid outlet are located on one side of the cooling region in the second direction. Therefore, having the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet on one side of the cooling region in the second direction facilitates the replacement of the fluid within the heat exchange channel, improving the cooling efficiency for multiple battery cells.

[0019] In some embodiments, the battery cell includes two first sidewalls arranged opposite to each other in the first direction and two second sidewalls arranged opposite to each other in the second direction, wherein the area of ​​the first sidewalls is larger than the area of ​​the second sidewalls. Therefore, the larger area of ​​the first sidewalls of the battery cell being arranged opposite to each other in the first direction allows the first sidewalls to be perpendicular to the direction in which the temperature equalization pipe extends, facilitating improved temperature equalization efficiency among multiple battery cells arranged in the first direction via the temperature equalization pipe.

[0020] In some embodiments, a plurality of battery cells are divided into at least one column, and the battery cells in the same column are arranged sequentially along the first direction. In the plurality of battery cells in the same column, a heat insulation element is sandwiched between the first sidewalls of two adjacent battery cells. Thus, the heat insulation element sandwiched between the first sidewalls of two adjacent battery cells can reduce the risk of thermal propagation in the event of thermal runaway between two adjacent battery cells.

[0021] In some embodiments, the plurality of battery cells are divided into multiple columns, and the battery cells in different columns are arranged sequentially along the second direction, with the second sidewalls of the battery cells in adjacent columns being bonded together. Therefore, the bonding of the second sidewalls of the battery cells in adjacent columns can improve heat transfer between the battery cells in adjacent columns, thereby improving the temperature uniformity efficiency between the battery cells.

[0022] In some embodiments, the battery device includes a housing assembly having a receiving groove, within which a plurality of battery cells are disposed. A thermal management component covers the opening of the receiving groove and is connected to the housing assembly. Thus, by covering the opening of the receiving groove and connecting to the housing assembly, the thermal management component can be kept relatively fixed to the battery cells via the housing assembly, improving the cooling stability and temperature uniformity of the thermal management component over the multiple battery cells.

[0023] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides an electrical device that includes the battery device described above. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of a vehicle according to one or more embodiments;

[0026] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of a battery device according to one or more embodiments;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a disassembled structural diagram of a thermal management component according to one or more embodiments;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a thermal management component according to one or more embodiments of this application;

[0029] Figure 5 It is based on Figure 4 An enlarged schematic diagram of the structure within the dashed box in the thermal management component shown;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a first structural schematic diagram of a battery cell located on a thermal management component according to one or more embodiments;

[0031] Figure 7This is a second structural schematic diagram of a battery cell located on a thermal management component according to one or more embodiments.

[0032] Reference numerals: Vehicle 1; Battery unit 2; Controller 3; Motor 4; Thermal management component 10; Heat exchange channel 11; Branch channel 111; First end 111a; Second end 111b; Branch sub-channel 112; Connecting channel 113; Main channel 114; First main channel 114a; Second main channel 114b; Temperature equalization pipe 12; Cooling zone 13; Fluid inlet 141; Fluid outlet 142; Battery cell 20; First sidewall 21; Second sidewall 22; Housing assembly 30; Receiving groove 31; Thermal insulation element 40; First direction X; Second direction Y. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The embodiments of the technical solution of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application and are therefore merely examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0034] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0035] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0036] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0037] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0038] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0039] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0040] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0041] Currently, judging from market trends, battery applications are becoming increasingly widespread. Batteries are not only used in energy storage systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power plants, but also extensively in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric cars, as well as in aerospace and other fields. With the continuous expansion of battery applications, market demand is also constantly increasing.

[0042] The battery device includes multiple closely spaced battery cells and a cooling component for cooling the multiple battery cells. However, the multiple battery cells will have a large temperature difference during charging and discharging, resulting in poor overall performance of the battery device.

[0043] To address the technical problems existing in related technologies, this application provides a battery device and an electrical device. The battery device includes multiple battery cells and a thermal management component. The thermal management component is provided with a temperature equalization pipe and a heat exchange channel to reduce the temperature difference between multiple battery cells through a phase change medium in the temperature equalization pipe and to perform thermal management on the battery cells through a heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channel, thereby improving the overall performance of the battery device.

[0044] Batteries, as discussed in this field, can be categorized into primary batteries and rechargeable batteries based on whether they are rechargeable. Primary batteries, also known as "use-and-discard" batteries or galvanic cells, cannot be recharged after their charge is depleted and must be discarded. Rechargeable batteries, also called secondary batteries or rechargeable batteries, differ from primary batteries in their manufacturing materials and processes. Their advantage lies in their ability to be cycled multiple times after charging, and their output current capacity is higher than most primary batteries. Common types of rechargeable batteries include lead-acid batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, have a large capacity (1.5 to 2 times that of a nickel-metal hydride battery of the same weight), no memory effect, and a very low self-discharge rate, thus enjoying widespread use despite their relatively high price. Lithium-ion batteries are also widely used in pure electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles. While the capacity of lithium-ion batteries used in these applications is relatively lower, they offer a larger output and charging current, and a longer lifespan, but at a higher cost.

[0045] The batteries described in the embodiments of this application refer to rechargeable batteries or disposable batteries. The embodiments disclosed in this application will be described below primarily using lithium-ion batteries as an example. It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed in this application are applicable to any other suitable type of rechargeable battery. The batteries mentioned in the embodiments disclosed in this application can be directly or indirectly used in suitable devices to power those devices.

[0046] Specifically, this application provides an electrical device, which may include, but is not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, electric toys, power tools, electric vehicles, electric cars, ships, spacecraft, etc. Electric toys may include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Spacecraft may include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc. The electrical device may include a battery, which can provide electrical power to achieve the corresponding function.

[0047] This application also provides an electric vehicle that may include a battery device.

[0048] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of a vehicle according to one or more embodiments.

[0049] Vehicle 1 can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. A battery device 2 is installed inside vehicle 1, and the battery device 2 can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of vehicle 1. The battery device 2 can be used to power vehicle 1; for example, it can serve as the operating power source for vehicle 1. Vehicle 1 may also include a controller 3 and a motor 4. The controller 3 controls the battery device 2 to supply power to the motor 4, for example, to meet the power needs of vehicle 1 during starting, navigation, and driving.

[0050] In some embodiments of this application, the battery device 2 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1, but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 1, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1.

[0051] To improve the performance of electrical devices, this application also provides a battery device, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of a battery device according to one or more embodiments. Figure 3 This is a disassembled structural diagram of a thermal management component according to one or more embodiments.

[0052] The battery device 2 includes multiple battery cells 20 and a thermal management component 10. The thermal management component 10 is in contact with the multiple battery cells 20 and is configured to exchange heat with the battery cells 20. The thermal management component 10 is provided with a heat exchange channel 11 and a heat exchange pipe 12. The heat exchange channel 11 and the heat exchange pipe 12 are spaced apart. The heat exchange pipe 12 is used to fill the phase change medium, and the heat exchange channel 11 is used to supply the flow of the heat exchange medium.

[0053] The battery cell 20 comprises multiple cells, which can be connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof. A combination thereof means that multiple battery cells 20 are connected in both series and parallel configurations. Alternatively, multiple battery cells 20 can first be connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof to form a battery module, and then these battery modules can be connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof to form a whole. The battery device 2 may also include other structures, such as a busbar component for electrical connection between multiple battery cells 20. A battery cell 20 is the smallest unit comprising the battery device 2. A battery cell 20 may include a casing, electrode assemblies, and other functional components. The casing includes end caps and a housing. An end cap is a component that closes onto the opening of the housing to isolate the internal environment of the battery cell 20 from the external environment. The shape of the end cap may be adapted to the shape of the housing. Optionally, the end cap may be made of a material with a certain hardness and strength (such as aluminum alloy), so that the end cap is less prone to deformation under pressure and impact, giving the battery cell 20 higher structural strength and improved safety performance. The end cap may be provided with functional components such as electrode terminals. The electrode terminals can be used for electrical connection with the electrode assembly to output or input electrical energy to the battery cell 20. In some embodiments, the electrode terminals may include terminals. Terminals may include positive and negative terminals for current output and connection to external circuits. In some embodiments, the end cap may also be provided with an explosion-proof component for releasing internal pressure when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell 20 reaches a threshold. The end cap can be made of various materials, including but not limited to copper, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, and plastic. In some embodiments, an insulating component may be provided on the inner side of the end cap to isolate the electrical connection components within the housing from the end cap, reducing the risk of short circuits. For example, the insulating component may be plastic, rubber, etc. The housing is an assembly used to cooperate with the end cap to form the internal environment of the battery cell 20, wherein the formed internal environment can be used to accommodate the electrode assembly, electrolyte, and other components. The housing and end cap may be separate components, and an opening may be provided on the housing. The end cap closes the opening at the opening to form the internal environment of the battery cell 20. The end cap and housing can be integrated, without limitation. Specifically, the end cap and housing can form a common connecting surface before other components are inserted into the housing. When it is necessary to encapsulate the interior of the housing, the end cap is then placed over the housing. The housing can be of various shapes and sizes, such as cuboid, cylindrical, hexagonal prism, etc. Specifically, the shape of the housing can be determined according to the specific shape and size of the electrode assembly. The housing can be made of various materials, including but not limited to copper, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, plastic, etc. The electrode assembly is the component in the battery cell 20 where the electrochemical reaction occurs. The housing can contain one or more electrode assemblies.Electrode assemblies are mainly formed by winding or stacking positive and negative electrode sheets, and usually a spacer is provided between the positive and negative electrode sheets. The portions of the positive and negative electrode sheets containing active material constitute the main body of the electrode assembly, while the portions without active material each constitute a tab. The positive and negative tabs can be located together at one end of the main body or at opposite ends of the main body. During the charging and discharging process of the battery, the positive and negative active materials react with the electrolyte, and the tabs connect to the electrode terminals to form a current loop.

[0054] The thermal management component 10 contacts multiple battery cells 20, allowing simultaneous heat exchange between the thermal management component 10 and multiple battery cells 20 for thermal management of the battery cells 20. The thermal management component 10 may internally include a heat exchange channel 11 and a temperature equalization pipe 12. For example, during the manufacturing process of the thermal management component 10, a first groove corresponding to the heat exchange channel 11 and a second groove corresponding to the temperature equalization pipe 12 can be formed by stamping a sheet metal. Then, a top cover plate is placed on one side of the stamped sheet metal to simultaneously seal the openings of the first and second grooves, resulting in a thermal management component 10 with the heat exchange channel 11 and the temperature equalization pipe 12. The heat exchange channel 11 can be used to supply the flow of heat exchange medium, which may include, but is not limited to, airflow, cooling water, cooling oil, or deionized water. When cooling of the battery cell 20 is required, a heat exchange medium with a temperature lower than that of the battery cell 20 can be injected into the heat exchange channel 11; when heating of the battery cell 20 is required, a heat exchange medium with a temperature higher than that of the battery cell 20 can be injected into the heat exchange channel 11. The temperature equalization pipe 12 is used to fill the phase change medium, which may include, but is not limited to, paraffin-based phase change media, fatty acid-based phase change media, hydrated salt-based phase change media, composite phase change media, novel phase change media, etc. The phase change medium can be vaporized at high temperatures, and the vaporized phase change medium evaporates into the temperature equalization pipe 12. The phase change medium can also be liquefied at low temperatures, and the liquefied phase change medium can flow to the corresponding position in the temperature equalization pipe 12. For example, when the thermal management component 10 comes into contact with multiple battery cells 20 at different temperatures, the position where the thermal management component 10 comes into contact with the battery cells 20 at higher temperatures is defined as the high-temperature region, and the position where the thermal management component 10 comes into contact with the battery cells 20 at lower temperatures is defined as the low-temperature region. The liquid phase change medium near the high-temperature region in the temperature equalization pipe 12 absorbs heat from the battery cells 20 and vaporizes into a gaseous phase change medium. The gaseous phase change medium near the low-temperature region in the temperature equalization pipe 12 transfers heat to the battery cells 20 at lower temperatures and liquefies into a liquid phase change medium. The gaseous and liquid phase change media circulate in the temperature equalization pipe 12 to achieve heat conduction between the battery cells 20 in different regions and reduce the temperature difference between the battery cells 20 at different temperatures. The temperature equalization pipe 12 and the heat exchange channel 11 are arranged at intervals, so that the temperature equalization pipe 12 and the heat exchange channel 11 act independently on the battery cell 20.

[0055] Through the above embodiments, the thermal management component 10 is integrated with a heat exchange channel 11 and a temperature equalization pipe 12. The temperature equalization pipe 12 is used to fill the phase change medium, and the heat exchange channel 11 is used to supply the heat exchange medium. It can cool multiple battery cells 20 through the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channel 11, and also reduce the temperature difference between multiple battery cells 20 through the temperature equalization pipe 12, thereby improving the overall performance of the battery device 2.

[0056] Furthermore, the battery device 2 includes a housing assembly 30, which has a receiving groove 31. Multiple battery cells 20 are disposed within the receiving groove 31, and a thermal management component 10 covers the opening of the receiving groove 31 and is connected to the housing assembly 30. Figure 2 As shown, the housing assembly 30 may include a frame structure and a top cover. The frame structure may be arranged in a ring shape, and the top cover may cover an opening in the frame structure to form a receiving groove 31 in the housing assembly 30. Multiple battery cells 20 are disposed within the receiving groove 31, and a thermal management component 10 covers the opening of the receiving groove 31, allowing the thermal management component 10 to contact the multiple battery cells 20 for thermal management. In some embodiments, the housing assembly 30 may further include a bottom protective plate, located on the side of the thermal management component 10 away from the multiple battery cells 20. The bottom protective plate is fixedly connected to the housing assembly 30, thereby providing better protection for the thermal management component 10. Thus, the thermal management component 10 covering the opening of the receiving groove 31 and connected to the housing assembly 30 allows the thermal management component 10 to maintain a relatively fixed state with the battery cells 20 through the housing assembly 30, improving the cooling stability and temperature uniformity of the multiple battery cells 20 by the thermal management component 10.

[0057] Combination Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a thermal management component 10 according to one or more embodiments of this application. Figure 5 It is based on Figure 4 An enlarged schematic diagram of the structure within the dashed box in the thermal management component 10 shown.

[0058] The heat exchange channel 11 includes multiple spaced-apart branch channels 111 and multiple heat exchange pipes 12, with at least one heat exchange pipe 12 between two branch channels 111. The number and shape of the branch channels 111 can be set according to actual conditions; for example, the number of branch channels 111 may include, but is not limited to, two, three, four, five, or other quantities. The multiple branch channels 111 can be arranged in a specific pattern or randomly, and they can be interconnected, allowing the heat exchange channels 11 within each branch channel 111 to flow into each other. The multiple heat exchange pipes 12 can be spaced-apart from each other; for example, at least one heat exchange pipe 12 may be between some two branch channels 111, or there may be one heat exchange pipe 12 between every two branch channels 111, or multiple heat exchange pipes 12 spaced-apart between every two branch channels 111. Therefore, there is at least one temperature equalization pipe 12 between the two branch flow channels 111, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency and temperature equalization efficiency of the thermal management component 10 by reasonably arranging the temperature equalization pipe 12 and the heat exchange flow channel 11.

[0059] Furthermore, multiple branch flow channels 111 and heat exchange pipes 12 together divide the space into at least one cooling region 13. In the same cooling region 13, each branch flow channel 111 extends along a first direction X, and the multiple branch flow channels 111 are spaced apart in a second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction X. The heat exchange pipes 12 extend along the first direction X, and at least one heat exchange pipe 12 is provided between two branch flow channels 111 that are at least partially spaced apart in the second direction Y. Each heat exchange pipe 12 is spaced apart from the branch flow channels 111, and at least one heat exchange pipe 12 is provided between two branch flow channels 111 that are at least partially spaced apart in the second direction Y. By rationally arranging the heat exchange pipes 12 and the heat exchange flow channels 11, the heat exchange efficiency and heat exchange efficiency of the thermal management component 10 can be further improved.

[0060] Furthermore, there are multiple cooling zones 13, which are spaced apart in the first direction X. By arranging multiple cooling zones 13 spaced apart in the first direction X, the thermal management component 10 can simultaneously perform heat exchange and temperature equalization treatment on a larger number of battery cells 20, reduce the temperature difference between multiple battery cells 20, and improve the overall performance of the battery device 2.

[0061] Furthermore, the branch flow channel 111 includes multiple branch sub-flow channels 112, which are spaced apart along the second direction Y and interconnected. Each branch sub-flow channel 112 can be configured as a straight flow channel extending along the first direction X. The number of branch sub-flow channels 112 in each branch flow channel 111 can be set according to actual conditions, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the branch flow channel 111 located in the middle has three branch sub-flow channels 112, and the branch flow channel 111 located at both ends in the second direction Y has two branch sub-flow channels 112. Each branch flow channel 111 may also include a flow channel segment connecting the ends of two adjacent branch sub-flow channels 112, thereby enabling the branch sub-flow channels 112 to be interconnected. For example, multiple branch sub-flow channels 112 can be connected through the flow channel segment to form a racetrack shape or a meandering shape, etc. Thus, multiple branch sub-flow channels 112 are spaced apart along the second direction Y, and the multiple branch sub-flow channels 112 are interconnected, which facilitates heat exchange treatment for a single battery cell 20 through multiple branch sub-flow channels 112, further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cell 20.

[0062] In some embodiments, the heat exchange channel 11 includes a connecting channel 113, which is spaced apart from the heat equalization pipe 12 in the first direction X. The connecting channel 113 connects to two adjacent branch sub-channels 112 in the second direction Y. The connecting channel 113 may be arc-shaped or straight. The connecting channel 113 is located at one end of the heat equalization pipe 12 in the first direction X, so as to connect to two adjacent branch sub-channels 112 in the second direction Y through the connecting pipe, which facilitates the flow of heat exchange medium between multiple branch sub-channels 112 and further improves the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cell 20.

[0063] In some embodiments, the two ends of the branch flow channel 111 in the first direction X are defined as a first end 111a and a second end 111b. The heat exchange flow channel 11 includes a plurality of main flow channels 114, each of which extends along the second direction Y. The cooling region 13 has main flow channels 114 on both sides in the first direction X. The main flow channel 114 near the first end 111a is defined as the first main flow channel 114a, and the main flow channel 114 near the second end 111b is defined as the second main flow channel 114b. In the same cooling region 13, the first end 111a of at least one branch flow channel 111 is connected to the first main flow channel 114a, and the second end 111b of at least one branch flow channel 111 is connected to the second main flow channel 114b. The main flow channel 114 can be interconnected with the branch flow channel 111, thereby allowing the heat exchange medium between the branch flow channel 111 and the main flow channel 114 to flow between them. For example... Figure 5As shown, branch channels 111 extend along the first direction X. The first end 111a of the branch channel 111 is the lower end in the figure, and the second end 111b of the branch channel 111 is the upper end in the figure. The first main channel 114a is a linear channel extending along the second direction Y in the figure, and the second main channel 114b is a linear channel extending along the second direction Y in the figure, located at the lower end. It is possible that the first end 111a of each branch channel 111 is connected to the first main channel 114a, or that the first end 111a of some branch channels 111 is connected to the first main channel 114a. Furthermore, the second end 111b of each branch flow channel 111 can be connected to the first main flow channel 114a, or the second end 111b of some branch flow channels 111 can be connected to the first main flow channel 114a. Thus, in the same cooling region 13, at least one branch flow channel 111's first end 111a is connected to the first main flow channel 114a, and at least one branch flow channel 111's second end 111b is connected to the second main flow channel 114b, which facilitates the flow of heat exchange medium between the branch flow channels 111, further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cell 20.

[0064] Furthermore, the first ends 111a of the two adjacent branch channels 111 located in the middle of the second direction Y are connected to the first main channel 114a and the main channel 114, and the second ends 111b of the two branch channels 111 located at both ends of the second direction Y are connected to the second main channel 114b and the main channel 114. The two adjacent branch channels 111 in the middle can be understood as: in the same cooling area 13, among the multiple branch channels 111 arranged in the second direction Y, the two relatively central branch channels 111, for example, when the number of branch channels 111 arranged in the second direction Y is even, the two branch channels 111 are the two central branch channels 111; when the number of branch channels 111 arranged in the second direction Y is odd, the two branch channels 111 are the central branch channel 111 and any branch channel 111 adjacent to the central branch channel 111. Figure 5As shown, in this embodiment, the first ends 111a of the two branch channels 111 located in the middle are respectively connected to the first main channel 114a and the main channel 114, and the second ends 111b of the two branch channels 111 located in the middle are spaced apart. The second ends 111b of the branch channels 111 at both ends in the second direction Y are connected to the second main channel 114b and the main channel 114. In some application scenarios, the heat exchange medium can flow from the first main channel 114a and the main channel 114. The heat exchange medium flows to the two branch channels 111 in the middle, and then splits into the two branch channels 111 in the middle. The heat exchange medium on the left flows to the leftmost end branch channel 111 and enters the second main channel 114b from the second end 111b of the end branch channel 111. The heat exchange medium on the right flows to the rightmost end branch channel 111 and enters the second main channel 114b from the second end 111b of the end branch channel 111. Therefore, the first end 111a of the two adjacent branch channels 111 located in the middle of the second direction Y is connected to the first main channel 114a and the main channel 114, and the second end 111b of the two branch channels 111 located at both ends of the second direction Y is connected to the second main channel 114b and the main channel 114, which makes the flow of heat exchange medium between the branch channels 111 and the main channel 114 smoother and further improves the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cell 20.

[0065] In some embodiments, the number of cooling regions 13 includes two, which are spaced apart in the first direction X, and the second main flow channels 114b of the two cooling regions 13 are correspondingly connected. Figure 4 As shown, there are two cooling zones 13, which are spaced apart in the first direction X. Each cooling zone 13 includes a first main flow channel 114a, a second main flow channel 114b, and multiple branch flow channels 111. The two cooling zones 13 can be symmetrically arranged, so that the second main flow channels 114b of the two cooling zones 13 are adjacent, allowing the second main flow channels 114b of the two cooling zones 13 to communicate with each other. In some other embodiments, the first main flow channel 114a of one cooling zone 13 and the second main flow channel 114b of another cooling zone 13 are adjacent, allowing the first main flow channel 114a of the first cooling zone 13 and the second main flow channel 114b of the other cooling zone 13 to communicate with each other. This allows the heat exchange medium in different cooling zones 13 to flow to each other, further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cell 20.

[0066] In some embodiments, the thermal management component 10 is provided with a fluid inlet 141 and a fluid outlet 142, which are respectively connected to the heat exchange channel 11. The temperature equalization pipe 12 is a closed space. The fluid inlet 141 is used to supply heat exchange medium into the heat exchange channel 11, and the fluid outlet 142 is used to supply heat exchange medium out of the heat exchange channel 11. The thermal management component 10 can be connected to a fluid supply device through a connector. The fluid supply device can supply heat exchange medium to the heat exchange channel 11 through the fluid inlet 141 through the connector. After heat exchange with the battery cell 20, the heat exchange medium enters the connector through the heat exchange outlet and is then supplied to the fluid supply device. The fluid supply device can be used to heat or cool the heat exchange medium, thereby regulating the temperature of the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channel 11. The fluid inlet 141 and fluid outlet 142 are respectively connected to the heat exchange channel 11, which facilitates the replacement of the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channel 11 through the fluid inlet 141 and fluid outlet 142, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of multiple battery cells 20. The temperature equalization pipe 12 is a closed space that can keep the phase change medium inside the temperature equalization pipe 12, and it is easier to reduce the temperature difference between multiple battery cells 20 through the temperature equalization pipe 12.

[0067] Combination Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a first structural schematic diagram of a battery cell 20 located on a thermal management component 10 according to one or more embodiments.

[0068] At least two battery cells 20 have their orthographic projections on the thermal management component 10 located on the same heat exchanger 12. The battery cells 20 are supported on the thermal management component 10, and the heat exchanger 12 extends along a first direction X. At least two battery cells 20 can be arranged sequentially along the first direction X. Since the orthographic projections of at least two battery cells 20 on the thermal management component 10 are located on the same heat exchanger 12, the same heat exchanger 12 can simultaneously act on at least two battery cells 20, making it easier for the heat exchanger 12 to perform heat equalization on the two battery cells 20 and reducing the temperature difference between the battery cells 20.

[0069] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of each battery cell 20 onto the thermal management component 10 lies on a plurality of branch flow channels 111. The battery cell 20 is supported on the thermal management component 10, and the plurality of branch flow channels 111 can extend along a first direction X and be spaced apart along a second direction Y. Each battery cell 20 can extend at least along the second direction Y. Since the orthographic projection of each battery cell 20 onto the thermal management component 10 lies on the plurality of branch flow channels 111, the plurality of branch flow channels 111 can simultaneously act on a single battery cell 20, enabling heat exchange treatment of a single battery cell 20 through the plurality of branch flow channels 111, further improving the heat exchange efficiency of the battery cell 20.

[0070] In some embodiments, the thermal management component 10 is provided with a fluid inlet 141 and a fluid outlet 142, which are respectively connected to the heat exchange channel 11. The fluid inlet 141 and the fluid outlet 142 are located on one side of the cooling region 13 in the second direction Y. The fluid inlet 141 can be used to allow heat exchange medium to flow into the heat exchange channel 11, and the fluid outlet 142 can be used to allow heat exchange medium to flow out of the heat exchange channel 11. The fact that the fluid inlet 141 and the fluid outlet 142 are located on one side of the cooling region 13 in the second direction Y facilitates the replacement of the fluid in the heat exchange channel 11 through the fluid inlet 141 and the fluid outlet 142, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the multiple battery cells 20.

[0071] Combination Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a second structural schematic diagram of a battery cell 20 located on a thermal management component 10 according to one or more embodiments.

[0072] The battery cell 20 includes two first sidewalls 21 arranged opposite to each other in the first direction X and two second sidewalls 22 arranged opposite to each other in the second direction Y. The area of ​​the first sidewall 21 is larger than the area of ​​the second sidewall 22. In this embodiment, the battery cell 20 can be a prismatic battery cell 20. The outer shell of the prismatic battery cell 20 can have four walls, namely the two first sidewalls 21 and the two second sidewalls 22 arranged opposite to each other, and the area of ​​the first sidewall 21 is larger than the area of ​​the second sidewall 22. The two first sidewalls 21 arranged opposite to each other are perpendicular to the first direction X, and the branch flow channel 111 extends along the first direction X. This makes the larger area of ​​the first sidewall 21 of the battery cell 20 perpendicular to the extension direction of the branch flow channel 111 and the temperature equalization pipe 12, which facilitates the improvement of the temperature equalization efficiency among the multiple battery cells 20 arranged in the first direction X through the temperature equalization pipe 12.

[0073] Furthermore, the multiple battery cells 20 are divided into at least one column, and the battery cells 20 in the same column are arranged sequentially along the first direction X. In the multiple battery cells 20 in the same column, a heat insulation element 40 is sandwiched between the first sidewalls 21 of two adjacent battery cells 20. The multiple battery cells 20 can be divided into multiple columns, such as... Figure 7As shown, the first sidewall 21 of each battery cell 20 is perpendicular to the first direction X, and the multiple battery cells 20 can be divided into three columns. The multiple battery cells 20 in each column are arranged sequentially along the first direction X. In the multiple battery cells 20 in the same column, at least one heat insulation element 40 is sandwiched between the first sidewall 21 of every two battery cells 20, which can reduce the risk of thermal propagation when thermal runaway occurs between two adjacent battery cells 20. The heat insulation element 40 may include, but is not limited to, a nanomaterial layer, a phase change material layer, a mica layer, and / or a ceramic layer, etc. The heat insulation element 40 can be used to isolate the heat transfer between two adjacent battery cells 20. The heat equalization pipe 12 extends along the first direction X, and the orthographic projection of at least two battery cells 20 in the same column on the thermal management component 10 is located on the same heat equalization pipe 12, so that while the heat insulation element 40 isolates two adjacent battery cells 20, the heat equalization pipe 12 can still be used to equalize the temperature of multiple battery cells 20.

[0074] Furthermore, the multiple battery cells 20 are divided into multiple columns, with battery cells 20 in different columns arranged sequentially along the second direction Y. The second sidewalls 22 of adjacent columns of battery cells 20 are fitted together. Battery cells 20 in different columns can be aligned in the second direction Y, such as... Figure 7 As shown, multiple battery cells 20 can be regularly arranged in multiple rows and columns. The second sidewalls 22 of the battery cells 20 in different columns are attached together. Even if the heat equalization pipe 12 extends along the first direction X and the projections of the battery cells 20 in different columns on the thermal management component 10 are not on the same heat equalization pipe 12, the battery cells 20 in different columns can spontaneously carry out heat transfer to achieve heat equalization, thereby improving the heat equalization efficiency between the battery cells 20.

[0075] In summary, the thermal management component 10 integrates a heat exchange channel 11 and a temperature equalization pipe 12. The temperature equalization pipe 12 is used to fill the phase change medium, and the heat exchange channel 11 is used to supply the flow of the heat exchange medium. It can cool multiple battery cells 20 through the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange channel 11, and can also reduce the temperature difference between multiple battery cells 20 through the temperature equalization pipe 12, thereby improving the overall performance of the battery device 2.

[0076] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A battery device, characterized by, The battery device includes: Multiple battery cells; A thermal management component that contacts a plurality of the battery cells, the thermal management component being configured to exchange heat with the battery cells; The thermal management component is provided with a heat exchange channel and a temperature equalization pipe, which are spaced apart. The temperature equalization pipe is used to fill the phase change medium, and the heat exchange channel is used to supply the flow of the heat exchange medium.

2. The battery device according to claim 1, characterized by The thermal management component is provided with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, which are respectively connected to the heat exchange channel, and the temperature equalization pipe is a closed space.

3. The battery device according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least two of the battery cells have their orthogonal projections onto the thermal management component located on the same heat exchanger pipe.

4. The battery device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange channel includes multiple branch channels arranged at intervals, and the number of equalization pipes is multiple, with at least one equalization pipe between two branch channels.

5. The battery device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of each of the battery cells onto the thermal management component lies on one of the branch channels.

6. The battery device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The plurality of branch channels and the heat equalization pipe are collectively divided into at least one cooling zone. In the same cooling zone, each branch channel extends along a first direction, and the plurality of branch channels are spaced apart in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The heat equalization pipe extends along the first direction, and at least one heat equalization pipe is provided between two branch channels that are at least partially spaced apart in the second direction.

7. The battery device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The number of cooling zones is multiple, and the multiple cooling zones are spaced apart in the first direction.

8. The battery device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The branch flow channel includes multiple branch sub-flow channels, which are spaced apart along the second direction and are interconnected.

9. The battery device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heat exchange channel includes a connecting channel, which is spaced apart from the equalization pipe in the first direction, and the connecting channel connects to two adjacent branch sub-channels in the second direction.

10. The battery device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The two ends of the branch flow channel in the first direction are defined as the first end and the second end. The heat exchange flow channel includes a plurality of main flow channels, each of which extends along the second direction. The cooling area has main flow channels on both sides in the first direction. The main flow channel near the first end is defined as the first main flow channel, and the main flow channel near the second end is defined as the second main flow channel. In the same cooling area, the first end of at least one branch flow channel is connected to the first main flow channel, and the second end of at least one branch flow channel is connected to the second main flow channel.

11. The battery device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first ends of the two adjacent branch channels located in the middle of the second direction are connected to the first main channel, and the second ends of the two branch channels located at both ends of the second direction are connected to the second main channel.

12. The battery device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The number of cooling zones includes two, and the two cooling zones are spaced apart in the first direction, with the second main flow channels of the two cooling zones correspondingly connected.

13. The battery device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The thermal management component is provided with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet being respectively connected to the heat exchange channel, and the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet being located on one side of the cooling area in the second direction.

14. The battery device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The battery cell includes two first sidewalls arranged opposite each other in the first direction and two second sidewalls arranged opposite each other in the second direction, wherein the area of ​​the first sidewalls is larger than the area of ​​the second sidewalls.

15. The battery device according to claim 14, characterized in that, Multiple battery cells are divided into at least one column, and the battery cells in the same column are arranged sequentially along the first direction. In the multiple battery cells in the same column, a heat insulation element is sandwiched between the first sidewalls of two adjacent battery cells.

16. The battery device according to claim 15, characterized in that, The battery cells are divided into multiple columns, and the battery cells in different columns are arranged sequentially along the second direction, with the second sidewalls of the battery cells in adjacent columns being attached together.

17. The battery device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that, The battery device includes a housing assembly with a receiving groove, a plurality of battery cells being disposed within the receiving groove, and a thermal management component covering the opening of the receiving groove and connected to the housing assembly.

18. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, The electrical device includes a battery device as described in any one of claims 1 to 17.

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