Battery module

Abstract

This utility model relates to the field of battery technology and discloses a battery module. The battery module includes a cell assembly, two end plates, and a fixing rod. The cell assembly includes multiple cells arranged in parallel. Each cell has a connector on its sidewall. The side of the connector away from the cell has a channel extending along the width direction of the cell. The channels of the multiple connectors are connected in sequence to form a limiting channel. The two end plates are located at both ends of the cell assembly in the length direction. The fixing rod is located on two sides of the cell assembly in the width direction and passes through the two end plates and the limiting channel. It is used to cooperate with the two end plates and the limiting channel to fix the ends and sides of the cell assembly. This battery module is easy to disassemble and assemble, and can quickly locate and replace faulty parts, which can improve maintenance efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of battery technology, and more specifically to a battery module. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of new energy technologies, battery modules, as important energy storage devices, are widely used in various scenarios, such as electric vehicles and portable power supplies. Traditional battery module designs typically consist of multiple individual cells connected in series / parallel and placed between a cover plate and a base plate. Side plates and end plates are located around the individual cells, and the base plate, side plates, end plates, and cover plate are fixed with bolts. The cells in this type of battery module are difficult to disassemble, causing many inconveniences in maintenance and replacement. The use of a large number of structural components also increases the weight and cost of the battery module. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art, and to provide a battery module that is easy to disassemble and assemble, and can quickly locate and replace faulty parts, thereby improving maintenance efficiency and reducing maintenance costs.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides a battery module, comprising:

[0005] A battery cell assembly includes multiple battery cells arranged in parallel. Each battery cell has a connector on its sidewall. The connector has a channel extending along the width direction of the battery cell on its side away from the battery cell. The channels of the multiple connectors are connected in sequence to cooperate to form a limiting channel.

[0006] Two end plates are disposed at both ends of the cell assembly along its length.

[0007] A fixing rod passes through the two end plates and the limiting channel, and is used to cooperate with the two end plates and the limiting channel to fix the end and side of the battery cell assembly.

[0008] Optionally, the side wall of the battery cell is provided with a slot, and the connector is provided with a buckle plate corresponding to the slot.

[0009] Optionally, the connector is configured as a U-shaped structure, and the channel is located on the side of the connector away from the opening end of the U-shaped structure.

[0010] Optionally, a rubber gasket is provided on the inner wall of the channel.

[0011] Optionally, both ends of the fixing rod are provided with threads and limit blocks, the threads and the limit blocks are distributed sequentially towards the center of the fixing rod, and the threaded nuts are used to clamp the battery cell assembly.

[0012] Optionally, the limiting block is detachably connected to at least one end of the fixing rod.

[0013] Optionally, foam and epoxy board are sequentially disposed between the end plate and the cell assembly, and both the foam and the epoxy board are provided with through holes for the fixing rod to pass through.

[0014] Optionally, an insulating sheet is provided between multiple parallel battery cells, and each of the multiple insulating sheets is provided with a through hole for the fixing rod to pass through.

[0015] Optionally, the end plate has a lifting hole through it on its side in the thickness direction.

[0016] Optionally, bolt holes are provided at both ends of the side surface in the height direction of the end plate, and the bolt holes are used to connect the battery module and the liquid cooling plate with bolts.

[0017] Through the above technical solution, the battery module provided by this utility model has a connector on the side wall of each cell, and the connector has a channel. The channels of multiple connectors are connected in sequence to form a limiting channel. Then, a fixing rod is used to pass through the two end plates and the limiting channel to fix the cell assembly. This fixing structure is simple, can quickly locate and replace faulty parts, shorten the maintenance time of the battery module, and improve maintenance efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of a battery module provided by this utility model;

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of the battery cell and connector in this utility model;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the epoxy board, foam, and insulating sheet structure in this utility model;

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the end plate structure in this utility model;

[0022] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fixing rod in this utility model;

[0023] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Enlarged schematic diagram of the structure at point A in the middle.

[0024] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0025] 1. Battery cell; 2. Connector; 21. Hole; 22. Clip plate; 3. End plate; 31. Lifting hole; 32. Bolt hole; 33. Reinforcing rib; 34. Concave part; 35. Limiting hole; 4. Fixing rod; 41. Thread; 42. Limiting block; 5. Foam; 6. Epoxy board; 7. Insulating sheet. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The specific embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit the scope of this utility model.

[0027] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this utility model provides a battery module, which mainly includes a cell assembly 1, two end plates 3, and a fixing rod 4. The cell assembly 1 includes multiple cells 1 arranged side-by-side. Each cell 1 has a connector 2 on its sidewall. The side of the connector 2 away from the cell 1 has a channel 21 extending along the width direction of the cell 1. The channels 21 of the multiple connectors 2 are sequentially connected to form a limiting channel. The two end plates 3 are located at both ends of the cell assembly 1 along its length. The fixing rod 4 is located on two sides of the cell assembly 1 along its width direction and passes through the two end plates 3 and the limiting channel, used to cooperate with the two end plates 3 and the limiting channel to fix the ends and sides of the cell assembly 1.

[0028] Traditional battery modules have complex structures, requiring numerous bolts to connect and secure various components, making cell disassembly difficult and consuming significant time and effort during maintenance. In contrast, the battery module provided by this invention uses a connector 2 to form a limiting channel for the cell assembly, and then a fixing rod 4 passes through the end plate 3 and the limiting channel for fixation. This fixing method allows for easy disassembly by simply pulling out the fixing rod 4, separating the end plate 3 from the cell assembly, facilitating operation on individual cells. During assembly, the cell assembly is placed in the appropriate position, and the fixing rod 4 is inserted to complete the fixation. The operation is simple and quick, improving the maintainability of the battery module.

[0029] Especially when a cell 1 in the battery module fails, the fixed structure of the cell 1 assembly allows each cell 1 to be located relatively independently, enabling quick identification of the faulty cell 1. During replacement, there is no need to disassemble a large number of structural components; simply loosen the fixing rod 4, remove the faulty cell 1 from the cell 1 assembly, insert the new cell 1, and reinsert the fixing rod 4 to secure it.

[0030] In this utility model, each individual battery cell 1 is provided with a connector 2 on its side wall. The material of the connector 2 can be an insulating material with certain strength and toughness known to those skilled in the art.

[0031] Two end plates 3 are respectively disposed at both ends of the length direction of the battery cell 1 assembly. The end plates 3 can be made of rigid materials known to those skilled in the art. The shape and size of the end plates 3 can be designed according to the size and shape of the battery cell 1 assembly to ensure that they can fit tightly against the ends of the battery cell 1 assembly.

[0032] The fixing rod 4 is set on both sides of the battery cell 1 assembly in the width direction. The fixing rod 4 is usually made of high-strength metal rod, and its diameter should be determined according to the size of the limiting channel to ensure that the fixing rod 4 can pass tightly through the limiting channel and the end plate 3 to achieve effective fixing of the battery cell 1 assembly.

[0033] In some embodiments, to increase the stability of the battery module, multiple fixing rods 4 can be provided, distributed at different heights on both sides of the battery cell 1 assembly in the width direction. Specifically, depending on the height of the battery cell 1 assembly and the actual stress conditions, multiple fixing rods 4 can be arranged from top to bottom or at certain intervals on both sides of the battery cell 1 assembly in the width direction. For example, for a battery cell 1 assembly with a relatively high height, one fixing rod 4 can be provided at the upper, middle, and lower parts of each side in the width direction; for a battery cell 1 assembly with a moderate height, fixing rods 4 can be provided at the upper and lower parts of both sides. It is understood that the position and number of the connectors 2 used in conjunction with the fixing rods 4 on the battery cell 1 must also be adapted to the distribution of the multiple fixing rods 4.

[0034] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, the side wall of the battery cell 1 is provided with a slot, and the connector 2 is provided with a buckle plate 22 corresponding to the slot. Specifically, the connector 2 is configured as a U-shaped structure, and the channel 21 is located on the side of the connector 2 away from the opening end of the U-shaped structure.

[0035] The snap-fit ​​connection has a certain degree of self-locking, which can ensure a tight connection between the connector 2 and the battery cell 1. This prevents the connector 2 from loosening or separating from the battery cell 1 under external force during use or transportation, thus ensuring the stability of the battery module structure. Furthermore, the cooperation between the slot and the snap-fit ​​plate 22 can accurately position the connector 2 on the side wall of the battery cell 1, ensuring the accurate position of the hole 21 on each connector 2. This, in turn, ensures that the fixing rod 4 can smoothly pass through the hole 21 of each connector 2, thereby effectively fixing the battery cell 1 assembly.

[0036] The connector 2 is designed with a U-shaped structure. This structure can fit tightly against the aluminum shell sidewall of the cell 1, while making full use of the space on the sidewall of the cell 1, making the overall structure of the battery module more compact.

[0037] Furthermore, when maintenance or replacement of cell 1 in the battery module is required, the disassembly process is very convenient because the connector 2 and cell 1 are connected by a snap-fit. Only a certain amount of external force is needed to pull the snap-fit ​​plate 22 out of the slot, separating the connector 2 from the cell 1, thus quickly completing the cell 1 replacement operation and improving maintenance efficiency.

[0038] Furthermore, in order to fill the gap between the channel 21 and the fixing rod 4, a rubber gasket is provided on the inner wall of the channel 21, making the battery module structure more stable.

[0039] In this utility model, combined with Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, both ends of the fixing rod 4 are provided with threads 41 and limit blocks 42. The threads 41 and the limit blocks 42 are distributed sequentially towards the center of the fixing rod 4. The threads 41 are used in conjunction with nuts to clamp the battery cell 1 assembly.

[0040] During installation, the fixing rod 4 has threads 41 and limit blocks 42 at both ends. After the fixing rod 4 connects all the components in series, it is first tightened and fixed at the end plate 3 of one end of the battery module with a nut. The end plate 3 of the other end of the battery module is pressed by the pressing equipment to the limit block 42 of the fixing rod 4, and finally tightened and fixed with a nut. The whole operation process is clear and simple. The end plate 3 is positioned by the limit block 42, and then tightened and fixed with the nut, which ensures that the installation position of the battery cell 1 assembly on the fixing rod 4 is accurate and stable.

[0041] Furthermore, to facilitate the assembly and maintenance of the battery module, the limiting block 42 is detachably connected to at least one end of the fixing rod 4.

[0042] In some embodiments, the distance between the limiting blocks 42 at both ends of the fixing rod 4 is exactly matched with the liquid cooling plate corresponding to the battery module. In order to ensure good heat exchange effect of the battery module, the battery module needs to be in close contact with the liquid cooling plate. Therefore, the limiting blocks 42 are set as positioning references to ensure that the battery module can be accurately placed on the liquid cooling plate.

[0043] In this utility model, such as Figure 3 As shown, foam 5 and epoxy board 6 are sequentially arranged between the end plate 3 and the battery cell 1 assembly. Both the foam 5 and the epoxy board 6 have through holes for the fixing rod 4 to pass through. Insulating sheets 7 are arranged between multiple parallel battery cells 1, and each of the multiple insulating sheets 7 has a through hole for the fixing rod 4 to pass through.

[0044] Foam 5 effectively cushions the vibration and impact experienced by the battery module during use, and also provides insulation and heat insulation. Epoxy board 6 not only enhances the overall structural strength of the battery module but also effectively isolates the electrical connection between end plate 3 and cell 1, preventing leakage and short circuits and ensuring the electrical safety of the battery module. Furthermore, the flame-retardant properties of epoxy board 6 can slow the spread of fire in the event of thermal runaway or other abnormal situations, buying time for evacuation and firefighting, thus improving the safety of the battery module. The insulating sheet 7 effectively isolates adjacent cells 1, preventing direct contact between the positive and negative electrodes of cells 1, thereby preventing short circuits.

[0045] Foam 5, epoxy board 6, and insulating sheet 7 are all provided with through holes for the fixing rod 4 to pass through. This allows the fixing rod 4 to smoothly pass through end plate 3, foam 5, epoxy board 6, cell 1 assembly, and insulating sheet 7, achieving overall fixation of the battery module. This fixing method eliminates the need for adhesive materials on epoxy board 6, foam 5, and insulating sheet 7, facilitating subsequent disassembly and maintenance of the battery module. It is understood that the positions of the through holes on foam 5, epoxy board 6, and insulating sheet 7 correspond to the limiting channels.

[0046] In this utility model, such as Figure 4 As shown, bolt holes 32 are provided at both ends of the side of the end plate 3 in the height direction. The bolt holes 32 are used with bolts to connect the battery module and the liquid cooling plate. The traditional method of fixing the battery module and the liquid cooling plate is usually by applying glue. This fixing structure can eliminate the glue application process, and allows the battery module to directly contact the liquid cooling plate, which improves the heat dissipation effect and facilitates subsequent disassembly and maintenance.

[0047] In this utility model, in order to facilitate the hoisting of the battery module, a hoisting hole 31 penetrating the end plate 3 is provided on the side of the end plate 3 in the thickness direction.

[0048] In some embodiments, a groove is provided on the top side of the end plate 3 in the height direction for placing an insulating seat. Multiple reinforcing ribs 33 are provided within the groove to increase the overall strength of the end plate 3.

[0049] A battery pack typically contains multiple battery modules. To improve the energy density of the battery cell 1, some battery modules have convex structures on their sides. In order to fit the battery modules with convex structures on their sides, the side of the battery module end plate 3 in this invention has a concave part 34 in the width direction to ensure that the battery modules in the battery pack can be arranged tightly, thereby arranging more battery modules in the limited space of the battery pack and indirectly improving the overall energy density of the battery pack.

[0050] It is understandable that the epoxy board 6, foam 5, and insulating sheet 7 also have concave areas at positions corresponding to the concave portion 34 of the end plate 3.

[0051] In some embodiments, a limiting hole 35 is provided on the side of the end plate 3 away from the cell 1 assembly in the thickness direction.

[0052] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, the present invention is not limited thereto. Within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, various simple modifications can be made to the technical solution of the present invention, including the combination of various specific technical features in any suitable manner. To avoid unnecessary repetition, the present invention will not describe the various possible combinations separately. However, these simple modifications and combinations should also be considered as the content disclosed in the present invention and are all within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A battery module, characterized by, include: A battery cell (1) assembly, the battery cell (1) assembly includes a plurality of battery cells (1) arranged in parallel, each of the battery cells (1) has a connector (2) on its sidewall, the connector (2) has a channel (21) extending along the width direction of the battery cell (1) on the side away from the battery cell (1), and the channels (21) of the plurality of connectors (2) are connected in sequence to cooperate to form a limiting channel; Two end plates (3) are disposed at both ends of the length direction of the battery cell (1) assembly; A fixing rod (4) passes through the two end plates (3) and the limiting channel, and is used to fix the end and side of the battery cell (1) assembly in cooperation with the two end plates (3) and the limiting channel.

2. The battery module of claim 1, wherein, The side wall of the battery cell (1) is provided with a slot, and the connector (2) is provided with a buckle plate (22) corresponding to the slot.

3. The battery module of claim 2, wherein, The connector (2) is configured as a U-shaped structure, and the channel (21) is located on the side of the connector (2) away from the opening end of the U-shaped structure.

4. The battery module of claim 1, wherein, The inner wall of the channel (21) is provided with a rubber gasket.

5. The battery module of claim 1, wherein, Both ends of the fixing rod (4) are provided with threads (41) and limit blocks (42). The threads (41) and the limit blocks (42) are distributed sequentially towards the center of the fixing rod (4). The threads (41) are used in conjunction with nuts to clamp the battery cell (1) assembly.

6. The battery module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The limiting block (42) is detachably connected to at least one end of the fixing rod (4).

7. The battery module of claim 1, wherein, Foam (5) and epoxy board (6) are sequentially arranged between the end plate (3) and the battery cell (1) assembly. Both the foam (5) and the epoxy board (6) are provided with through holes for the fixing rod (4) to pass through.

8. The battery module of claim 7, wherein, An insulating sheet (7) is provided between multiple parallel battery cells (1), and each of the multiple insulating sheets (7) is provided with a through hole for the fixing rod (4) to pass through.

9. The battery module of claim 1, wherein, The end plate (3) has a lifting hole (31) through it on its side in the thickness direction.

10. The battery module of claim 5, wherein, The end plate (3) has bolt holes (32) at both ends of its side in the height direction. The bolt holes (32) are used with bolts to connect the battery module and the liquid cooling plate.

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