Battery module and battery pack

Abstract

This utility model relates to the field of battery technology and discloses a battery module and battery pack. The battery module includes: a plurality of battery cells stacked sequentially, each battery cell having a tab at one end; a clamping structure including a sliding shaft and a plurality of clamping brackets; the sliding shaft is disposed at the tab-bearing end of the battery cell and spaced apart from the battery cell, extending along the stacking direction of the battery cells, and having a locking structure on the sliding shaft; the plurality of clamping brackets are disposed on the sliding shaft, each clamping bracket being suitable for clamping at least one battery cell, and the clamping brackets having a sliding state relative to the sliding shaft and a locking state limited by the locking structure. By providing clamping brackets at the tab-bearing end of the battery cell, the tab side of the battery cell is reinforced, preventing thermal runaway of the battery cell from erupting from the tab side and preventing thermal runaway of other battery cells. The sliding shaft provides guidance and support for the installation of the clamping brackets, resulting in better overall integrity and reducing the amount of potting compound used, thus reducing weight and cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of battery technology, specifically to battery modules and battery packs. Background Technology

[0002] In the design of battery module layout, it is necessary to consider how to maximize passenger safety through structural design in the event of thermal runaway of a battery cell, giving passengers more time to evacuate to a safe area or to isolate the out-of-control vehicle. While existing technologies consider and design for venting in battery modules, they do not restrict the venting direction of the battery cells. Currently, most cells experience venting from the tab side during thermal runaway. However, since a battery module consists of several cells connected in series or parallel, when one cell experiences thermal runaway and vents, excessive heat transfer from the tab can easily trigger thermal runaway in other cells, leading to thermal runaway of the entire battery pack. Therefore, venting from the tab side during cell thermal runaway poses a significant safety hazard, resulting in poor safety and reliability. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of this, the present invention provides a battery module and battery pack to solve the problem that the structure of the battery cell that ejects from the tab side during thermal runaway can easily cause thermal runaway of other battery cells in the module.

[0004] In a first aspect, this utility model provides a battery module, comprising: a plurality of battery cells, wherein the plurality of battery cells are stacked sequentially, and one end of each battery cell has a tab; a clamping structure, comprising a sliding shaft and a plurality of clamping brackets; the sliding shaft is disposed at the end of each battery cell having the tab and is spaced apart from the battery cells, the sliding shaft extends along the stacking direction of the battery cells, and a locking structure is provided on the sliding shaft; the plurality of clamping brackets are disposed on the sliding shaft, each clamping bracket being adapted to clamp at least one battery cell, the clamping bracket having a sliding state relative to the sliding shaft and a locking state limited by the locking structure.

[0005] Beneficial effects: By clamping the battery cell with a clamping bracket at the end with the tab, the tab side of the battery cell is reinforced, increasing the difficulty of breaking the tab side. This prevents the battery cell from escaping from the tab side in the event of thermal runaway, and regulates the direction of exhaust gas during thermal runaway, preventing thermal runaway of other cells due to heat conduction from the tab, thereby preventing thermal runaway of the entire battery module and improving the overall safety of the battery module. Furthermore, several clamping brackets are mounted on a sliding shaft, which provides guidance and support for the installation of the clamping brackets, resulting in good overall integrity. After installation, the clamping brackets are locked on the sliding shaft, increasing the stability of the positional relationship between the individual battery cells and providing a pre-positioning effect for several battery cells. The installation is convenient and highly reliable. It can also reduce the amount of potting compound used in the entire package, reducing the overall weight and cost.

[0006] In one optional embodiment, the clamping bracket is provided with a first buckle, and the locking structure includes a limiting tooth, the first buckle being adapted to engage with the limiting tooth.

[0007] Beneficial effects: The first buckle on the clamping bracket engages with the limiting teeth to limit the clamping bracket through the locking structure. The structure of the buckle and teeth is relatively simple, easy to process, and low in cost. It is also easy to operate during assembly and has good stability after assembly.

[0008] In one optional embodiment, the locking structure is a rack extending along the extension direction of the sliding shaft, and the limiting teeth are helical teeth.

[0009] Beneficial effects: By setting the locking structure as a rack and pinion, it is easy to realize the unidirectional movement of the clamping bracket on the sliding shaft, ensuring that the clamping bracket drives the battery cells to be stacked smoothly. In addition, the helical teeth and the first buckle can limit the reverse movement of the clamping bracket, preventing the clamping bracket from moving in reverse on the sliding shaft, and further ensuring the smooth progress of the battery cell stacking operation.

[0010] In one optional embodiment, the first end of the battery cell has a first sealing edge, and the tab extends out of the first sealing edge; the clamping bracket includes a first clamping member and a second clamping member disposed opposite to each other along the extension direction of the sliding shaft, the first clamping member and the second clamping member being detachably connected, and the first clamping member and the second clamping member being adapted to clamp the first sealing edge.

[0011] Beneficial effects: By setting the clamping bracket to be detachably composed of the first clamping component and the second clamping component, it is convenient to assemble the clamping bracket with the battery cell, ensuring that the clamping bracket can smoothly clamp the first sealing edge of the battery cell, and preventing the smoke generated by thermal runaway of the battery cell from breaking through the first sealing edge, that is, preventing it from being ejected from the tab side of the battery cell.

[0012] In one alternative embodiment, one of the first clamping member and the second clamping member is provided with a positioning hole, and the other is provided with a plug-in portion, the plug-in portion being adapted to be inserted into the positioning hole.

[0013] Beneficial effects: The connection between the first clamping component and the second clamping component is achieved through the plug-in engagement of the plug-in part and the positioning hole, thereby ensuring that the clamping bracket clamps the first sealing edge of the battery cell. Moreover, the structure of the plug-in part and the positioning hole is relatively simple, easy to process, low in cost, and the assembly process is simple and easy to operate.

[0014] In one optional embodiment, the first clamping member includes a first main body and two first side portions. The extension direction of the first main body is parallel to the extension direction of the first sealing edge. The two first side portions are disposed at both ends of the first main body. The first main body and the two first side portions surround each other to form a receiving groove. The second clamping member includes a second main body and two second side portions. The extension direction of the second main body is parallel to the extension direction of the first sealing edge. The two second side portions are disposed at both ends of the second main body. The second main body is located in the receiving groove. The second side portions overlap the first side portions. The first main body is fitted with one side of the first sealing edge, and the second main body is fitted with the other side of the first sealing edge.

[0015] Beneficial effects: By setting the first main body of the first clamping member and the two first side parts to form a receiving groove, the first clamping member is U-shaped. At the same time, by setting the second main body of the second clamping member to be inserted into the receiving groove, the first clamping member and the second clamping member together form a concave-convex joint, which is beneficial to the mutual positioning of the two during the assembly process. Moreover, the space occupied after assembly is small and the relative stability is good. Thus, the first sealing edge is stably clamped between the first main body and the second main body, so that the gas generated inside the battery cell cannot be discharged from the tab side.

[0016] In one optional embodiment, the battery cell further includes a side sealing edge, which is connected to both sides of the first sealing edge along the extension direction of the first sealing edge, and the side sealing edge is bent relative to the first sealing edge, and the side sealing edge is sandwiched between the second main body portion and the first side portion.

[0017] Beneficial effects: By setting the side seals on both sides of the battery cell to be bent relative to the first seal, the space occupied by the side seals can be reduced, thereby reducing the volume of the battery module. It is also convenient to clamp the bent side seals between the second main body and the first side, matching the shape of the first and second clamping members with their concave and convex shapes, making reasonable use of space, and strengthening the fixing effect of the side seals. This can suppress the emission of smoke generated during thermal runaway of the battery cell from the side seals, further limiting the emission of smoke from the battery cell to the second seal, which is away from the first seal, thus improving the safety of the smoke exhaust process.

[0018] In one optional embodiment, there are two sliding shafts, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the battery cell along the extension direction of the first sealing edge; the first clamping member is provided with a first connecting part at both ends, and a first through groove is provided on the first connecting part. The first connecting part is sleeved on the sliding shaft through the first through groove, and a first buckle is provided on the inner wall of the first through groove.

[0019] Beneficial effects: By setting a sliding shaft on each side of the battery cell and a first connecting part at each end of the first clamping member, the stability of the first clamping member after assembly with the sliding shaft can be improved. Furthermore, by opening a first through groove on the first connecting part, the first connecting part can be sleeved on the sliding shaft through the first through groove, ensuring the stability of the engagement between the first connecting part and the sliding shaft. It can also provide guidance for the movement of the first clamping member on the sliding shaft, ensuring the stability of the movement process. At the same time, by setting a first buckle on the inner wall of the first through groove, the locking structure on the first connecting part and the sliding shaft can be engaged, saving space and ensuring that the entire clamping bracket can slide and lock in one direction on the sliding shaft.

[0020] In one optional embodiment, the battery module further includes two limiting members, which are respectively disposed at both ends of the sliding shaft along the extension direction of the sliding shaft to clamp a plurality of the battery cells.

[0021] Beneficial effects: By setting a limiting component at each end of the sliding shaft, after several battery cells and clamping brackets are installed, the two limiting components can be used to fasten the clamping brackets, thereby fixing the battery cells and further ensuring the stability of the relative positions of the battery cells in the battery module, thus improving the reliability of the battery module.

[0022] Secondly, this utility model also provides a battery pack, comprising: a housing; and the aforementioned battery module, wherein the battery module is disposed within the housing. Since the battery pack includes the battery module and has the same effects as the battery module, it will not be described further here. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of this utility model or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of a battery module and the end cap of a housing according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0025] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A magnified view of part A in the diagram;

[0026] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A top view of the battery module and the end cover assembly structure of the casing shown;

[0027] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of a portion of the middle section near the bottom plate;

[0028] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified view of part B in the diagram;

[0029] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the clamping structure and the battery cell assembly process according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a clamping structure according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0031] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A magnified view of a portion of the structure near the clamping end;

[0032] Figure 9 for Figure 7 Top view of the clamping structure shown;

[0033] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sliding shaft and a limiting component after assembly according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0034] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A magnified view of part of C;

[0035] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a clamping bracket according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0036] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A magnified view of part of D;

[0037] Figure 14 for Figure 12 Top view of the clamping bracket shown;

[0038] Figure 15 for Figure 12 The diagram shows the structure of the clamping bracket from the bottom view.

[0039] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first clamping member according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0040] Figure 17 for Figure 16 A magnified view of part of E in the diagram;

[0041] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second clamping member according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0042] Figure 19 for Figure 18 A magnified view of part of F.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0044] 1. Battery cell; 101. First edge seal; 102. Electrode tab; 103. Side edge seal; 2. Sliding shaft; 201. Locking structure; 3. Clamping bracket; 310. First clamping member; 301. First buckle; 302. Positioning hole; 303. Insertion part; 311. First main body part; 312. First side part; 313. First connecting part; 314. First through groove; 320. Second clamping member; 321. Second main body part; 322. Second side part; 4. Limiting member; 401. Second connecting part; 5. Heat insulation layer; 6. Base plate; 7. End cap; 701. Explosion-proof valve. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0046] In related technologies, the venting of battery modules often adopts a design that sprays gas towards the tab side of the cell. However, when the high-temperature fumes generated by thermal runaway of the cell are sprayed from the tab side, excessive heat transfer between adjacent cell tabs can easily trigger thermal runaway of other cells, posing a significant safety hazard. In addition, related technologies use a large amount of glue to fill the non-ejection side of the cell to suppress the cell from ejecting gas from the non-ejection side, thereby limiting the ejection direction of the cell. However, a large amount of glue filling will increase the weight of the battery pack, which is not conducive to improving the energy density of the battery pack. Moreover, the glue filling process is complex, cumbersome to operate, and costly.

[0047] The following is combined Figures 1 to 19 The following describes embodiments of the present invention.

[0048] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery module is provided, comprising: a plurality of battery cells 1 and a clamping structure. The plurality of battery cells 1 are stacked sequentially, and one end of each battery cell 1 has a tab 102; the clamping structure includes a sliding shaft 2 and a plurality of clamping brackets 3, the sliding shaft 2 being disposed at the end of the battery cell 1 having the tab 102 and spaced apart from the battery cell 1, the sliding shaft 2 extending along the stacking direction of the battery cells 1, and a locking structure 201 being provided on the sliding shaft 2; the plurality of clamping brackets 3 being disposed on the sliding shaft 2, each clamping bracket 3 being adapted to clamp at least one battery cell 1, the clamping bracket 3 having a sliding state relative to the sliding shaft 2 and a locking state limited by the locking structure 201.

[0049] Further integration Figure 1 As shown, the battery module has a first direction X, a second direction Y, and a third direction Z that intersect each other. A plurality of battery cells 1 are stacked along their thickness direction. Specifically, the plurality of battery cells 1 are stacked along the first direction X, and the first end of each battery cell 1 along the third direction Z has a tab 102. A sliding shaft 2 extends along the first direction X and is spaced apart from the battery cells 1. Here, the first direction refers to... Figure 1 The direction indicated by the middle arrow "X" is also the thickness direction of the battery cell; the second direction refers to... Figure 1 The direction indicated by the middle arrow (Y) is the third direction (Z). Figure 1 The direction of "Z" indicated by the middle arrow; preferably, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z are perpendicular to each other.

[0050] The battery module of this embodiment uses a clamping bracket 3 to clamp the battery cell 1 at one end with the tab 102, thereby reinforcing the tab side of the battery cell 1 and increasing the difficulty of breaking the tab side of the battery cell 1. This prevents the battery cell from emitting gas from the tab side when thermal runaway occurs, and specifies the direction of the exhaust gas from the battery cell 1 during thermal runaway, preventing thermal runaway of other battery cells caused by heat conduction from the tab. This, in turn, prevents thermal runaway of the entire battery module and improves the overall safety of the battery module. Furthermore, several clamping brackets 3 are installed on a sliding shaft 2, which provides guidance and support for the installation of the clamping brackets 3, resulting in good overall integrity. After installation, the clamping brackets 3 are locked on the sliding shaft 2, increasing the stability of the positional relationship between the individual battery cells 1. This provides a pre-positioning effect for several battery cells 1, making installation convenient and highly reliable. It can also reduce the amount of potting compound used in the whole package, reducing the overall weight and cost.

[0051] In this arrangement, the stacking direction of several battery cells 1 is the same as the axial direction of the sliding shaft 2. During the stacking process of several battery cells 1, the clamping bracket 3 can drive the battery cells 1 to slide on the sliding shaft 2 to a predetermined position. Then, the clamping bracket 3 is limited by the locking structure 201 to prevent the battery cells 1 from shifting back, thereby improving the stability after stacking. Several clamping brackets 3 are all installed on the sliding shaft 2, and the overall connection is good. In related technologies, there are structures that set clamping brackets for battery cells, but the clamping brackets on different battery cells 1 are independent brackets, without overall connection and pre-positioning effect.

[0052] It should be noted that cell 1 has two opposing ends along the third direction Z. When the battery module is installed in vehicles such as electric vehicles, the end of cell 1 with the tab 102 faces upwards. The clamping bracket is used to suppress the upward discharge of smoke generated by thermal runaway of the cell, thus allowing the entire module to discharge smoke downwards. Since the battery pack is usually located under the passenger seat, the downward smoke discharge structure of the battery pack can minimize the probability of secondary injury events, giving passengers more time to evacuate to a safe area or to isolate the out-of-control vehicle, further improving the overall safety of the battery pack. Here, "facing upwards" refers to the direction away from the ground, and "facing downwards" refers to the direction towards the ground.

[0053] In one embodiment, the number of clamping brackets 3 is equal to the number of battery cells 1 and corresponds one-to-one. Each clamping bracket 3 has a clamping position, and each clamping bracket 3 clamps one battery cell 1. Several battery cells 1 are assembled one by one with the clamping brackets 3 and installed one by one onto the sliding shaft 2. The installation direction of the battery cells is as follows: Figure 6 As indicated by the middle arrow "X1". In other embodiments, a clamping bracket 3 may also be provided with multiple clamping positions, each clamping position clamping one battery cell 1, so that a clamping bracket 3 can clamp multiple battery cells at the same time.

[0054] In one embodiment, the clamping bracket 3 is made of insulating material, which can improve the insulation between adjacent cells, reduce the probability of short circuits, and improve the safety of the battery module.

[0055] Optionally, the clamping bracket 3 is made of bakelite, which has advantages such as strong insulation, high electrical strength, corrosion resistance, good heat resistance, high strength, high hardness, and low price. Bakelite is a phenolic resin. Phenolic resin can be obtained by polycondensation of phenolic and aldehyde compounds under the action of acidic or alkaline catalysts. Bakelite powder is obtained by thoroughly mixing phenolic resin, sawdust, talc, curing agent, pigments, etc., and then heated and pressed into shape in a mold to obtain thermosetting phenolic plastic products.

[0056] In one embodiment, the clamping bracket 3 is provided with a first buckle 301, and the locking structure 201 includes a limiting tooth. The first buckle 301 is adapted to engage with the limiting tooth. It should be noted that the limiting tooth is provided at a predetermined position on the sliding shaft 2, wherein the predetermined position is the position where the battery cell 1 is installed. When the clamping bracket 3 slides on the sliding shaft 2 to the predetermined position, the first buckle 301 on the clamping bracket 3 engages with the limiting tooth, thereby limiting the clamping bracket 3 through the locking structure 201. Moreover, the structure of the buckle and the tooth engagement is relatively simple, easy to process, low in cost, simple to operate during assembly, and has good stability after assembly.

[0057] In one embodiment, the locking structure 201 is a rack extending along the extension direction of the sliding shaft 2, and the limiting teeth are helical teeth. It should be noted that the rack has multiple helical teeth arranged continuously. During the installation of the clamping bracket 3 onto the sliding shaft 2, the clamping bracket 3 is pushed along the inclined direction of the helical teeth, realizing the sliding of the clamping bracket 3 on the sliding shaft 2. Due to the limiting effect of the helical teeth on the first latch 301, the clamping bracket 3 cannot move in the reverse direction, thus realizing the unidirectional sliding of the clamping bracket 3 on the sliding shaft 2, thereby improving the stability of the battery cell 1 after reaching the predetermined position. Therefore, by setting the locking structure 201 as a rack, it is convenient to realize the unidirectional movement of the clamping bracket 3 on the sliding shaft 2, ensuring that the clamping bracket 3 drives the battery cell 1 to be stacked smoothly. Furthermore, the helical teeth, in cooperation with the first latch 301, can limit the reverse movement of the clamping bracket 3, preventing the clamping bracket 3 from moving in the reverse direction on the sliding shaft 2, further ensuring the smooth operation of the battery cell 1 stacking.

[0058] Wherein, the extending direction of the sliding shaft 2 is the first direction X, and the limiting tooth is a helical tooth that is inclined toward one end of the sliding shaft 2 along the first direction X.

[0059] In other embodiments, the locking structure 201 may also be a plurality of slots spaced apart along the first direction X, each slot corresponding to the position of a battery cell 1, and can also engage with the first buckle 301 on the clamping bracket 3. Preferably, the slot is an inclined groove that is inclined towards the sliding shaft 2 along the first direction X, so as to facilitate the passage of other clamping brackets 3.

[0060] In one embodiment, the first end of the battery cell 1 has a first sealing edge 101, and the tab 102 extends out of the first sealing edge 101; the clamping bracket 3 includes a first clamping member 310 and a second clamping member 320 disposed opposite to each other along the extension direction of the sliding shaft 2, the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 being detachably connected, and the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 being adapted to clamp the first sealing edge 101. It should be noted that the extension direction of the sliding shaft 2 is the first direction X, and the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 are arranged opposite to each other along the first direction X; the battery cell 1 includes an electrode group and an encapsulation film, the first sealing edge 101 is the sealing edge formed by the encapsulation film, the electrode group body is located in the sealed space formed by the encapsulation film, and the electrode tab 102 connected to the electrode group body extends out of the first sealing edge 101 along the third direction Z; along the first direction X, the distance between the first main body portion 311 of the first clamping member 310 and the second main body portion 321 of the second clamping member 320 is less than the thickness of the first sealing edge 101. Specifically, the distance between the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 is slightly less than the thickness of the first sealing edge 101. The first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 are both tightly fitted with the surface of the first sealing edge 101 so that the first sealing edge 101 is clamped between the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320.

[0061] Therefore, by setting the clamping bracket 3 to be detachably composed of the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320, it is convenient to assemble the clamping bracket 3 with the battery cell 1, and ensure that the clamping bracket 3 can smoothly clamp the first sealing edge 101 of the battery cell 1, so as to prevent the smoke generated by the thermal runaway of the battery cell from breaking through the first sealing edge 101, that is, to prevent it from being ejected from the tab side of the battery cell 1.

[0062] It should be noted that the first buckle 301 is fixedly installed on the first clamping member 310 or the second clamping member 320, which can enable the clamping bracket 3 to cooperate with the locking structure 201 through the first buckle 301.

[0063] In one embodiment, further combination Figures 15 to 19 As shown, one of the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 is provided with a positioning hole 302, and the other is provided with a plug-in part 303, which is adapted to be plugged into the positioning hole 302. Through the plug-in cooperation between the plug-in part 303 and the positioning hole 302, the connection between the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 is realized, thereby ensuring that the clamping bracket 3 clamps the first sealing edge 101 of the battery cell 1. Moreover, the structure of the plug-in part 303 and the positioning hole 302 is relatively simple, easy to process, low in cost, and the assembly process is simple and easy to operate.

[0064] Optionally, the first clamping member 310 is provided with a positioning hole 302, and the second clamping member 320 is provided with a plug-in portion 303 corresponding to the positioning hole 302; or, the second clamping member 320 is provided with a positioning hole 302, and the first clamping member 310 is provided with a plug-in portion 303 corresponding to the positioning hole 302.

[0065] In one embodiment, further combination Figure 17 and Figure 19 As shown, the positioning hole 302 is a cylindrical through hole, and the insertion part 303 is a cylinder. The insertion part 303 is formed by a portion of the surface of the second side 322 facing the first side 312. The axis of the cylinder extends along the third direction Z. The first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 can be assembled by inserting the cylinder into the cylindrical positioning hole. The structure is simple.

[0066] Alternatively, in other embodiments, a first latching portion may be provided on one of the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320, and a second latching portion may be provided on the other. The detachable connection between the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 can also be achieved by the latching engagement of the first and second latching portions. Optionally, one of the first and second latching portions may be a buckle, and the other may be a slot.

[0067] In one embodiment, the first clamping member 310 includes a first main body 311 and two first side portions 312. The extension direction of the first main body 311 is parallel to the extension direction of the first edge seal 101. The two first side portions 312 are respectively disposed at both ends of the first main body 311. The first main body 311 and the two first side portions 312 surround each other to form a receiving groove. The second clamping member 320 includes a second main body 321 and two second side portions 322. The extension direction of the second main body 321 is parallel to the extension direction of the first edge seal 101. The two second side portions 322 are respectively disposed at both ends of the second main body 321. The second main body 321 is located in the receiving groove, and the second side portions 322 overlap the first side portions 312. The first main body 311 is attached to one side of the first edge seal 101, and the second main body 321 is attached to the other side of the first edge seal 101. It should be noted that the extension direction of the first sealing edge 101 is the second direction Y, so both the first main body 311 and the second main body 321 extend along the second direction Y; the two first side portions 312 are respectively disposed at both ends of the first main body 311 along the extension direction of the first main body 311, specifically, the two first side portions 312 are respectively disposed at both ends of the first main body 311 along the second direction Y; the two second side portions 322 are respectively disposed at both ends of the second main body 321 along the extension direction of the second main body 321, specifically, the two second side portions 322 are respectively disposed at both ends of the second main body 321 along the second direction Y, wherein the second direction Y refers to Figure 14The direction indicated by the middle arrow "Y"; along the first direction X, the first main body 311 is attached to one side of the first sealing edge 101, and the second side 322 is attached to the other side of the first sealing edge 101.

[0068] In this configuration, the first main body 311 of the first clamping member 310 and the two first side portions 312 surround to form a receiving groove, making the first clamping member 310 U-shaped. At the same time, the second main body 321 of the second clamping member 320 is inserted into the receiving groove, so that the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 together form a concave-convex fit, which is beneficial for mutual positioning during the assembly process. Moreover, the space occupied after assembly is small and the relative stability is good, thereby stably clamping the first sealing edge 101 between the first main body 311 and the second main body 321, preventing the gas generated inside the battery cell 1 from escaping from the tab side.

[0069] Further integration Figure 8 and Figure 13 As shown, along the third direction Z, the upper surface of the second clamping member 320 is higher than the upper surface of the first clamping member 310, and the second side portion 322 is located above the first side portion 312, thereby facilitating the second side portion 322 to overlap the first side portion 312, and thus facilitating the assembly of the second clamping member 320 and the first clamping member 310. Here, the upper surface refers to the surface on the side away from the main body of the battery cell 1 along the third direction Z; above refers to the direction away from the main body of the battery cell 1 along the third direction Z.

[0070] In one embodiment, further combination Figure 18 As shown, the second clamping member 320 has a hollow structure. The hollow structure can reduce the overall weight of the second clamping member 320 while ensuring structural strength.

[0071] In one embodiment, the battery cell 1 further includes a side sealing edge 103, which is connected to both sides of the first sealing edge 101 along the extension direction of the first sealing edge 101, and the side sealing edge 103 is bent relative to the first sealing edge 101, and the side sealing edge 103 is sandwiched between the second main body portion 321 and the first side portion 312. It should be noted that the side seal 103 is connected to both sides of the first seal 101 along the second direction Y. There are two side seals 103. Each side of the cell 1 along the second direction Y has a side seal 103. The side seal 103 is also the seal of the encapsulation film. When the cell 1 is stacked in the battery module, the side seal 103 is usually bent to make it close to the cell body, thereby reducing the space occupied by the side seal 103. After bending, the side seal 103 has increased structural strength and is less likely to be broken by gas, thereby suppressing the smoke generated by the thermal runaway of the cell from the side seal 103. The second main body 321 has a first side on each side along the second direction Y. The first side 312 of the first clamping member 310 has a second side facing the first side. The side seal 103 is clamped between the first side of the second main body 321 and the second side of the first side 312.

[0072] Therefore, by setting the side sealing edges 103 on both sides of the battery cell 1 to be bent relative to the first sealing edge 101, the space occupied by the side sealing edges 103 can be reduced, thereby reducing the volume of the battery module. It is also convenient to clamp the bent side sealing edges 103 between the second main body 321 and the first side part 312, matching the shape of the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 with their concave and convex shapes. This makes reasonable use of space and can strengthen the fixing effect of the side sealing edges 103. It can suppress the smoke generated during the thermal runaway of the battery cell from the side sealing edges 103, further limiting the battery cell to be able to be ejected from the second sealing edge away from the first sealing edge 101 along the third direction Z, thus improving the safety of the smoke exhaust process.

[0073] It should be noted that the first clamping member 310 is a positioning structure. The protrusion direction of the first side portion 312 relative to the first main body portion 311 is the same as the bending direction of the side sealing edge 103 relative to the first sealing edge 101. The inner wall of the receiving groove is tightly attached to the outer surface of the first sealing edge 101 and the side sealing edge 103. The second clamping member 320 is a boss structure. The surface of the second main body portion 321 facing the first main body portion 311 is tightly attached to the surface of the first sealing edge 101. The surface of the second main body portion 321 facing the first side portion 312 is tightly attached to the side sealing edge 103. Thus, the clamping bracket 3 clamps the first sealing edge 101 and the side sealing edge 103 between the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320.

[0074] In one embodiment, further combination Figures 3 to 4 and Figures 7 to 10As shown, there are two sliding shafts 2, which are respectively located on both sides of the battery cell 1 along the extension direction of the first sealing edge 101; the first clamping member 310 has a first connecting part 313 at both ends, and a first through groove 314 is provided on the first connecting part 313. The first connecting part 313 is sleeved on the sliding shaft 2 through the first through groove 314, and a first buckle 301 is provided on the inner wall of the first through groove 314 (e.g., ...). Figure 13 (As shown). It should be noted that the two sliding shafts 2 are respectively disposed on both sides of the battery cell 1 along the second direction Y. The first clamping member 310 is provided with a first connecting part 313 at both ends along the second direction Y. The groove depth direction of the first through groove 314 is in the same direction as the axis of the sliding shaft 2, so as to ensure that the first connecting part 313 is sleeved on the sliding shaft 2. By providing a sliding shaft 2 on each side of the battery cell 1 and a first connecting part 313 at each end of the first clamping member 310, the stability of the first clamping member 310 after assembly with the sliding shaft 2 can be improved. Furthermore, by opening a first through groove 314 on the first connecting part 313, the first connecting part 313 can be sleeved on the sliding shaft 2, ensuring the stability of the engagement between the first connecting part 313 and the sliding shaft 2. It can also provide guidance for the movement of the first clamping member 310 on the sliding shaft 2, ensuring the stability of the movement process. At the same time, by providing a first buckle 301 on the inner wall of the first through groove 314, the first connecting part 313 can be engaged with the locking structure 201 on the sliding shaft 2, saving space and ensuring that the entire clamping bracket 3 can slide and lock unidirectionally on the sliding shaft 2.

[0075] In one embodiment, the sliding shaft 2 is pre-fixed on both sides of the battery module and has unidirectional inclined locking teeth inside, which cooperate with the first buckle 301 to achieve unidirectional locking of the clamping bracket 3. During the battery module assembly process, after the clamping bracket 3 and the battery cell 1 are assembled, aerogel adhesive foam and other partitions are stacked according to the battery cell design. Then, the battery cell 1 is pushed along the sliding shaft 2 to the predetermined position and locked on one side. After all the battery cells 1 are stacked, pressure can be applied again by the clamping fixture to compress the battery module to the designed length. At this time, the sliding shaft 2 fixes the battery cell 1 in the designed position and plays a positioning role.

[0076] In one embodiment, the sliding shaft 2 is made of rigid plastic, which has good structural strength and insulation, and is lightweight, which helps to reduce the weight of the battery module.

[0077] In one embodiment, the battery module further includes two limiting members 4, which are respectively disposed at both ends of the sliding shaft 2 along the extending direction of the sliding shaft 2 to clamp a plurality of battery cells 1. Specifically, the two limiting members 4 are respectively disposed at both ends of the sliding shaft 2 along the first direction X. By providing a limiting member 4 at each end of the sliding shaft 2, after the plurality of battery cells 1 and the clamping brackets 3 are installed, the plurality of clamping brackets 3 can be fastened by the two limiting members 4, thereby fixing the plurality of battery cells 1, further ensuring the stability of the relative position between the various battery cells 1 in the battery module, thereby improving the reliability of the battery module.

[0078] In one embodiment, the limiting member 4 has a second connecting portion 401 at each end along its extending direction. The second connecting portion 401 has a second through groove and is sleeved on the sliding shaft 2. A protruding second buckle is provided on the inner wall of the second through groove. The second buckle cooperates with the locking structure 201 on the sliding shaft 2, enabling unidirectional movement of the limiting member 4 along the sliding shaft 2. Specifically, the limiting member 4 has a second connecting portion 401 at each end along the second direction Y.

[0079] In one embodiment, the battery module further includes a heat insulation layer 5, which is disposed between two adjacent battery cells 1. The heat insulation layer 5 reduces heat transfer between adjacent battery cells 1, thereby reducing the possibility of thermal runaway cell causing thermal runaway in other battery cells. It also improves the insulation between adjacent battery cells 1, thus enhancing the safety of the battery module. Optionally, the heat insulation layer includes foam and aerogel, which are stacked to effectively ensure heat insulation performance between battery cells 1.

[0080] It should be noted that when designing the battery module, the series and parallel connection specifications of several battery cells 1 are first determined. The shape and number of clamping brackets 3 are determined according to the number of series and parallel connections. The size of a single clamping bracket 3 along the first direction X is determined according to the thickness of the battery cell specification. The total length of the sliding shaft 2 is determined according to the thickness and arrangement of the battery cell heat insulation layer. After determining the above basic information, install a clamping bracket 3 on each cell 1, and ensure that the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 320 are inserted and installed in place, ensuring that the clamping bracket 3 is tightly connected to the surface of the cell 1; then, place the cells 1 with clamping brackets 3 in front of the stacking fixture in sequence, first put the first connecting parts 313 at both ends of the clamping bracket 3 onto the sliding shaft 2, and after the heat insulation layer between the cells 1 is installed, push the clamping bracket 3 along the sliding shaft 2 to the other side until the cell 1 contacts the previous cell 1, and stack the entire module in this way; after the entire module is stacked, use the clamping fixture to clamp it. At this time, as the clamping fixture is pushed forward, the first connecting part 313 continues to advance and lock, fixing each cell 1 in the designed position. Each cell 1 is independently suppressed by the upper venting, and at the same time, the entire battery module is tightly fixed in the relative position of the cells 1 by the sliding shafts on both sides 2. Even if thermal runaway occurs inside cell 1, causing gas to be generated and the internal pressure to rise sharply, the gas will not be ejected from the tab side of cell 1. The exhaust direction of all cells 1 in the entire battery module becomes the bottom (the weak area of ​​the unsealed adhesive), that is, the smoke is discharged from the side of cell 1 away from the tab. Therefore, the safety of the tab side of the cell is protected, the heat diffusion and heat exchange at the tab is reduced, the probability of triggering other cells is reduced, and the safety and stability of the entire pack are improved.

[0081] In this embodiment, the battery module specifies the exhaust direction for the internal cells, reducing the amount of potting compound used in the entire pack, thus reducing the overall pack weight and cost. Furthermore, the downward exhaust design can minimize the probability of secondary injury incidents and improve the overall safety of the battery pack.

[0082] According to an embodiment of the present invention, another aspect provides a battery pack, comprising: a housing; and the aforementioned battery module, wherein the battery module is disposed within the housing.

[0083] In one embodiment, the housing includes a shell (not shown) and an end cap 7 that are interlocked. The battery module is located in the receiving space formed by the shell and the end cap 7. An explosion-proof valve 701 is provided on the end cap 7. The explosion-proof valve 701 opens when the battery cell in the battery module experiences thermal runaway in order to discharge high-temperature fumes.

[0084] In one embodiment, a base plate 6 is provided inside the housing, located at the end of the battery module away from the end cap 7, to provide protection for the battery module.

[0085] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A battery module, characterized in that, include: A plurality of battery cells (1) are stacked in sequence, and one end of each battery cell (1) has a tab (102); The clamping structure includes a sliding shaft (2) and several clamping supports (3); The sliding shaft (2) is disposed at one end of the battery cell (1) having the tab (102) and is spaced apart from the battery cell (1). The sliding shaft (2) extends along the stacking direction of the battery cell (1) and is provided with a locking structure (201). A plurality of clamping brackets (3) are disposed on the sliding shaft (2), each clamping bracket (3) being adapted to clamp at least one of the battery cells (1), the clamping bracket (3) having a sliding state relative to the sliding shaft (2) and a locking state limited by the locking structure (201).

2. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping bracket (3) is provided with a first buckle (301), and the locking structure (201) includes a limiting tooth, the first buckle (301) being adapted to engage with the limiting tooth.

3. The battery module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking structure (201) is a rack extending along the extension direction of the sliding shaft (2), and the limiting teeth are helical teeth.

4. The battery module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first end of the battery cell (1) has a first sealing edge (101), and the tab (102) extends out of the first sealing edge (101); The clamping bracket (3) includes a first clamping member (310) and a second clamping member (320) arranged opposite to each other along the extension direction of the sliding shaft (2). The first clamping member (310) and the second clamping member (320) are detachably connected and are adapted to clamp the first sealing edge (101).

5. The battery module according to claim 4, characterized in that, One of the first clamping member (310) and the second clamping member (320) is provided with a positioning hole (302), and the other is provided with a plug-in part (303), which is adapted to be plugged into the positioning hole (302).

6. The battery module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first clamping member (310) includes a first main body (311) and two first side parts (312). The extension direction of the first main body (311) is parallel to the extension direction of the first edge seal (101). The two first side parts (312) are respectively disposed at both ends of the first main body (311). The first main body (311) and the two first side parts (312) surround each other to form a receiving groove. The second clamping member (320) includes a second main body (321) and two second side parts (322). The extension direction of the second main body (321) is parallel to the extension direction of the first sealing edge (101). The two second side parts (322) are respectively disposed at both ends of the second main body (321). The second main body (321) is located in the receiving groove, and the second side parts (322) overlap the first side part (312). The first main body (311) is attached to one side of the first edge seal (101), and the second main body (321) is attached to the other side of the first edge seal (101).

7. The battery module according to claim 6, characterized in that, The battery cell (1) also includes a side sealing edge (103), which is connected to both sides of the first sealing edge (101) along the extension direction of the first sealing edge (101), and the side sealing edge (103) is bent relative to the first sealing edge (101). The side sealing edge (103) is sandwiched between the second main body (321) and the first side part (312).

8. The battery module according to claim 6, characterized in that, The number of sliding shafts (2) is two, and the two sliding shafts (2) are respectively disposed on both sides of the battery cell (1) along the extension direction of the first sealing edge (101); The first clamping member (310) has a first connecting part (313) at each end. The first connecting part (313) has a first through groove (314). The first connecting part (313) is sleeved on the sliding shaft (2) through the first through groove (314). The first buckle (301) is provided on the inner wall of the first through groove (314).

9. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The battery module further includes two limiting members (4), which are respectively disposed at both ends of the sliding shaft (2) along the extension direction of the sliding shaft (2) to clamp a number of the battery cells (1).

10. A battery pack, characterized in that, include: Box; The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the battery module is disposed in the housing.

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