Battery module, battery pack and battery cluster

Abstract

This application provides a battery module, battery pack, and battery cluster. The battery module includes a first liquid cooling plate, a third liquid cooling plate, and a second liquid cooling plate stacked sequentially. The third liquid cooling plate is connected to either the first or second liquid cooling plate. A first cell assembly is disposed between the first and third liquid cooling plates and makes heat exchange contact with them. A second cell assembly is disposed between the second and third liquid cooling plates and makes heat exchange contact with them. The height of both the first and second cell assemblies is no greater than a preset height. The sides of the first and second cell assemblies make heat exchange contact with the first or third liquid cooling plate and the second cell assembly make heat exchange contact with them through heat exchange structures. This reduces the height of each cell assembly layer. The liquid cooling plate is arranged between two cell assemblies, avoiding temperature gradients in the height direction, ensuring charge / discharge rate, and extending cycle life.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a battery module, battery pack and battery cluster. Background Technology

[0002] A battery pack typically consists of a casing, a liquid cooling plate, and battery cell modules, with the cell modules housed within the casing. The liquid cooling plate is connected to the bottom of the casing and contacts the bottom of the cell modules. Heat generated by the cell modules, such as during high-rate fast charging, is transferred to the liquid cooling plate at the bottom and carried away by the coolant flowing within it, thus dissipating heat from the cell modules and cooling the entire battery pack.

[0003] However, since the liquid cooling plate is located at the bottom of the cell module, and the cell module has a certain height, the heat in the cell module in the height direction cannot be dissipated in time. This results in a lower temperature at the bottom and a higher temperature at the top of the cell module, leading to uneven temperature distribution and a temperature gradient in the height direction. Long-term use will limit the charge and discharge rate of the battery pack and shorten the cycle life of the battery pack. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a battery module, battery pack, and battery cluster to solve the problem of temperature gradient in the height direction of the battery pack, improve the heat dissipation performance of the battery pack, ensure the charge and discharge rate of the battery pack, and extend the cycle life of the battery pack.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a battery module, including a first cell assembly, a second cell assembly, a first liquid cooling plate, a second liquid cooling plate, and a third liquid cooling plate;

[0006] The first liquid cooling plate, the third liquid cooling plate, and the second liquid cooling plate are stacked in sequence, and the third liquid cooling plate is connected to one of the first liquid cooling plate and the second liquid cooling plate.

[0007] The first battery cell assembly is disposed between the first liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate, and is in heat exchange contact with both the first liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate. The second battery cell assembly is disposed between the second liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate, and is in heat exchange contact with both the second liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate. The height of both the first battery cell assembly and the second battery cell assembly is not greater than a preset height.

[0008] The side of the first battery cell assembly is in heat exchange contact with one of the first liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate, and the side of the second battery cell assembly is in heat exchange contact with one of the second liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate through a heat exchange structure.

[0009] The battery module provided in this application comprises a first liquid cooling plate, a third liquid cooling plate, and a second liquid cooling plate stacked sequentially, with the third liquid cooling plate connected to one of the first and second liquid cooling plates. A first battery cell assembly is disposed between the first and third liquid cooling plates, and the first battery cell assembly has heat exchange contact with both the first and third liquid cooling plates. A second battery cell assembly is placed between the second and third liquid cooling plates. The second battery cell assembly has heat exchange contact with both the second and third liquid cooling plates, and the height of both the first and second battery cell assemblies does not exceed a preset height. With this configuration, the battery module consists of two layers of battery cell assemblies, with the height of each layer not exceeding the preset height. Each layer of battery cell assembly has liquid cooling plates at both the top and bottom. The top liquid cooling plate can remove some of the heat from the battery cell assembly, and the bottom liquid cooling plate can also remove some of the heat from the battery cell assembly. In other words, each layer of battery cell assembly in the battery module is cooled down through the top and bottom liquid cooling plates, which increases the heat transfer path of the battery cell assembly and thus improves the heat dissipation performance of the battery module. Furthermore, since the height of each cell assembly is no greater than the preset height, compared with the related technology where the battery module consists of a single cell assembly, the height of each cell assembly is reduced, shortening the heat transfer path between the cell assembly and the liquid cooling plate. This allows the heat in the middle part of the cell assembly to be transferred to the top and bottom liquid cooling plates for dissipation in a timely manner, resulting in a more uniform temperature distribution of the cell assembly. This, to a certain extent, avoids the occurrence of temperature gradients in the height direction of the battery module, improves the heat dissipation performance and efficiency of the battery module, ensures the charge and discharge rate of the battery pack with the battery module of this application, and extends the cycle life of the battery pack.

[0010] Meanwhile, since the side of the first cell assembly is in heat exchange contact with one of the first and third liquid cooling plates, and the side of the second cell assembly is in heat exchange contact with one of the second and third liquid cooling plates through a heat exchange structure, that is, the side of each cell assembly is in heat exchange contact with the top or bottom liquid cooling plate through a corresponding heat exchange structure, the heat dissipation path between each cell assembly and its top or bottom liquid cooling plate is increased, improving the heat dissipation efficiency of each cell assembly. Therefore, the heat in the middle part of each cell assembly can also be transferred to the top or bottom liquid cooling plate for heat exchange and cooling through the heat exchange structure, making the temperature distribution of the cell assembly more uniform. This further avoids the phenomenon of temperature gradient in the height direction of the battery module, further improves the heat dissipation performance and efficiency of the battery module, and further ensures the charge and discharge rate of the battery pack with the battery module of this application, making the cycle life of the battery pack longer.

[0011] In one possible design, the preset height is 120mm.

[0012] The above scheme ensures that the height of the first cell assembly is no greater than 120mm and the height of the second cell assembly is no greater than 120mm. This makes the height of each cell assembly in the battery module more suitable, which not only shortens the heat transfer path between the cell assembly and the top and bottom liquid cooling plates, resulting in higher heat dissipation efficiency, but also facilitates the timely transfer of heat from the middle of the cell assembly to the top or bottom liquid cooling plates for heat exchange. This further avoids the occurrence of temperature gradients in the height direction of the battery module, resulting in better temperature uniformity.

[0013] In one possible design, one of the first and second liquid cooling plates has a first inlet, a first outlet, a second inlet, and a second outlet, while the third liquid cooling plate has an inlet and an outlet. The first outlet, the second inlet, the inlet, and the outlet are located on the same side of the corresponding battery cell assembly, and the first outlet and the inlet are connected by a first pipe, while the second inlet and the outlet are connected by a second pipe.

[0014] The above solution allows the first or second liquid cooling plate, which is connected to the third liquid cooling plate, to have a first inlet, a first outlet, a second inlet, and a second outlet. The first outlet and second inlet are located on the same side of the cell assembly as the inlet and outlet on the third liquid cooling plate. This facilitates connecting the first outlet and inlet via a first pipe, and connecting the second inlet and outlet via a second pipe, thus enabling the third liquid cooling plate to connect with the first or second liquid cooling plate. Assembly is convenient, and the first or second liquid cooling plate can be connected to the third liquid cooling plate via pipes. The third liquid cooling plate can cool and dissipate heat from the bottom of the first cell assembly and the top of the second cell assembly without the need for external pipes and connectors, resulting in high space utilization and contributing to improved energy density of the battery pack.

[0015] In one possible design, the position of the first outlet corresponds to the position of the inlet, the position of the second inlet corresponds to the position of the outlet, and the first and second pipelines are arranged in parallel.

[0016] With the above scheme, the first outlet and the inlet are arranged vertically and correspondingly, which facilitates the connection between the first outlet and the inlet. The second inlet and the outlet are arranged vertically and correspondingly, which facilitates the connection between the second inlet and the outlet. This makes the first pipeline and the second pipeline easy to manufacture, easy to implement, and easy to assemble.

[0017] Alternatively, the position of the first outlet corresponds to the position of the outlet, and the position of the second inlet corresponds to the position of the inlet. Both the first and second pipelines are flexible pipes and are intersecting.

[0018] With the above scheme, the first water outlet and outlet are arranged vertically and correspondingly, and the second water inlet and outlet are arranged vertically and correspondingly. That is to say, the first water outlet and inlet are staggered along the height direction of the battery module, and the second water inlet and outlet are staggered along the height direction of the battery module. This makes the front section of the flow channel of the first or second liquid cooling plate connected to the third liquid cooling plate vertically and correspondingly to the rear section of the flow channel of the third liquid cooling plate, and the rear section of the flow channel of the first or second liquid cooling plate connected to the third liquid cooling plate vertically and correspondingly to the front section of the flow channel of the third liquid cooling plate. This can avoid the phenomenon of overheating at the end of the battery cell assembly, reduce the temperature difference of the battery cell assembly, and maintain temperature uniformity.

[0019] In one possible design, the pressure in the flow channel cavity of the third liquid cooling plate is less than the pressure in the flow channel cavity of either the first or second liquid cooling plate.

[0020] The above scheme makes the pressure in the flow channel cavity of the third liquid cooling plate less than the pressure in the flow channel cavity of the first or second liquid cooling plate connected to it. This makes it easier for the coolant to enter the third liquid cooling plate, thereby removing more heat and improving the heat dissipation efficiency of the third liquid cooling plate.

[0021] In one possible design, the flow channel cavity of the third liquid cooling plate is connected to the flow channel cavity of the second liquid cooling plate via a pipe.

[0022] The above-described design connects the third liquid cooling plate to the second liquid cooling plate located below it. This reduces the need for external water channels and connectors, allowing the third and second liquid cooling plates to be connected and shared via piping, resulting in high space utilization and improved battery pack energy density. Furthermore, the coolant first enters the second liquid cooling plate below, where it remains for a certain period, causing the liquid level in the connecting pipe to rise continuously before entering the third liquid cooling plate above. This ensures the cooling efficiency of the bottom-mounted second liquid cooling plate.

[0023] In one possible design, the heat exchange structure includes multiple heat exchange elements, and both the first and second battery cell assemblies include multiple battery cell rows, which are arranged sequentially at least along a first direction. Each battery cell row of the first battery cell assembly has heat exchange contact with one of the first liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate on both sides in the first direction through heat exchange elements. Each battery cell row of the second battery cell assembly has heat exchange contact with one of the second liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate on both sides in the first direction through heat exchange elements.

[0024] Through the above scheme, in the first cell assembly, heat exchange components are provided between two adjacent cell rows and on the opposite sides of two outer cell rows. In the second cell assembly, heat exchange components are provided between two adjacent cell rows and on the opposite sides of two outer cell rows. In both the first and second cell assemblies, each heat exchange component is in heat exchange contact with the adjacent cell row and also with the top or bottom liquid cooling plate. This allows heat from each cell row in the height direction to be transferred to the corresponding liquid cooling plate, increasing the heat dissipation path between each cell row and its top or bottom liquid cooling plate, thus increasing the heat dissipation path of each cell assembly. This enables the heat from both the first and second cell assemblies in the height direction to be dissipated promptly through multiple heat dissipation components, resulting in high heat dissipation efficiency and a more uniform temperature distribution. This, to a certain extent, avoids the occurrence of temperature gradients in the height direction of the battery module, further ensuring the charge / discharge rate of the battery pack with the battery module of this application and further extending the cycle life of the battery pack.

[0025] In one possible design, the heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange section and a second heat exchange section; the first heat exchange section is disposed on one side of the cell array in a first direction and makes heat exchange contact with the side of the adjacent cell array, and the second heat exchange section is disposed at the end of the first heat exchange section and intersects with the first heat exchange section.

[0026] When the heat exchanger is located between the first liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate, the second heat exchange section makes heat exchange contact with the corresponding battery cell array and one of the first liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate.

[0027] When the heat exchanger is located between the second liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate, the second heat exchange section makes heat exchange contact with the corresponding battery cell array and one of the second liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate.

[0028] Through the above scheme, the first heat exchange section of each heat exchanger is in heat exchange contact with the side of the adjacent cell row, and the second heat exchange section of each heat exchanger is in heat exchange contact with the end of the corresponding cell row and the corresponding liquid cooling plate. In this way, each cell row, heat exchanger, and corresponding liquid cooling plate form a heat transfer path. The heat exchange contact area between the heat exchanger and the corresponding cell row is large, so that the heat of the cell row in the height direction can be transferred to the corresponding liquid cooling plate for heat exchange and cooling in a timely manner through the heat exchanger. This increases the heat dissipation path of each cell row, thereby further increasing the heat dissipation path of the first cell assembly and the second cell assembly. This allows the heat of the battery module in the height direction to be dissipated in a timely manner through the heat exchanger, resulting in a more uniform temperature distribution and further ensuring charging and discharging efficiency and cycle life.

[0029] In one possible design, when the heat exchanger is located between two adjacent battery cell rows, the heat exchanger includes two second heat exchange sections; the two second heat exchange sections are connected to the same side of the first heat exchange section and extend along a first direction toward a direction away from each other, and the two second heat exchange sections respectively make heat exchange contact with the two adjacent battery cell rows.

[0030] With the above scheme, when the heat exchanger is arranged between two adjacent cell rows (i.e., the heat exchanger is arranged in the first cell assembly and the second cell assembly), two second heat exchange sections are provided at the top or bottom of the first heat exchange section. The two second heat exchange sections extend along the first direction in a direction away from each other. The first heat exchange section and the two second heat exchange sections can be formed into a T-shaped structure, for example. The two second heat exchange sections respectively make heat exchange contact with the ends of the two adjacent cell rows. This arrangement increases the contact area between the heat exchanger and the two adjacent cell rows, thereby increasing the thermal conductivity of the heat exchanger, improving the heat dissipation efficiency in the height direction of the battery module, further ensuring the charging and discharging efficiency of the battery pack, and making the cycle life of the battery pack longer.

[0031] In one possible design, the second heat exchange sections of all heat exchange components located between the first liquid cooling plate and the third liquid cooling plate are located on the same side of the first cell assembly and connected.

[0032] The second heat exchange sections of all heat exchange components located between the second and third liquid cooling plates are located on the same side of the second cell assembly and are connected.

[0033] Through the above scheme, the second heat exchange sections of all heat exchange components of the first battery cell assembly are arranged on the same side of the first battery cell assembly and connected together, and the second heat exchange sections of all heat exchange components of the second battery cell assembly are arranged on the same side of the second battery cell assembly and connected together. In this way, all heat exchange components of the first battery cell assembly and all heat exchange components of the second battery cell assembly form an integral structure. This not only facilitates assembly and helps to improve the assembly efficiency of the battery module, but also avoids the phenomenon of different temperatures of heat exchange components in different areas due to the inconsistent temperature of the coolant before and after the liquid cooling plate connected to the heat exchange components. The cooling efficiency of the battery cell assembly at the end of the coolant flow channel cavity is higher, further avoiding the phenomenon of temperature difference in the battery module.

[0034] In one possible design, at least some of the heat exchange components include at least two heat exchange sub-components, which are arranged sequentially along the length of the cell array.

[0035] The above scheme enables the heat exchanger to include multiple heat exchange sub-components. In actual use, the multiple heat exchange sub-components are arranged sequentially along the length of the cell column to form the corresponding heat exchanger. Each heat exchange sub-component covers part of the side of the cell unit in the cell column. This arrangement is easier to implement in terms of process, reduces the process difficulty to a certain extent, and helps to improve the manufacturing efficiency of the battery module.

[0036] In one possible design, the height of the heat exchange structure is not less than 1 / 3 of the height of either the first cell assembly or the second cell assembly.

[0037] Through the above scheme, the height of the heat exchange structure is not less than 1 / 3 of the height of any cell component in the height direction of the battery module. This ensures the contact area between the heat exchange structure and the first or second cell component in the height direction of the cell module. In this way, the heat exchange structure can promptly dissipate the heat in the height direction of the first or second cell component connected to it, further avoiding the occurrence of temperature gradients in the height direction of the battery module.

[0038] And / or, the thickness of the heat exchange structure is 3mm-6mm.

[0039] The above scheme achieves a reasonable thickness design for the heat exchange structure, ensuring good heat transfer efficiency and effectively dissipating heat from the height of the first or second battery cell assembly without taking up too much volume. This helps to improve the energy density of the battery pack and thus improve the driving range.

[0040] Secondly, this application provides a battery pack, including a hollow housing and a battery module as described above.

[0041] Thirdly, this application provides a battery cluster including multiple battery packs as described above, wherein the multiple battery packs are stacked sequentially, and in two adjacent battery packs, the second liquid cooling plate of the upper battery pack is the first liquid cooling plate of the lower battery pack.

[0042] The beneficial effects of the battery pack provided in the second aspect and the various possible designs of the second aspect, and the battery cluster provided in the third aspect and the various possible designs of the third aspect, can be found in the beneficial effects of the first aspect and the various possible embodiments of the first aspect, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1 This is an isometric view of a battery module according to an embodiment of this application.

[0044] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A magnified view of part A in the middle.

[0045] Figure 3 This is a side view of the battery module described in one embodiment of this application from a first perspective.

[0046] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of part B in the middle.

[0047] Figure 5 This is an isometric view of a partial structure of a battery module according to an embodiment of this application.

[0048] Figure 6 This is a second-view side view of a partial structure of a battery module according to an embodiment of this application.

[0049] Figure 7 This is a second-perspective side view of a partial structure of a battery module according to another embodiment of this application.

[0050] Figure 8 This is an isometric view of the heat exchange structure of a battery module according to an embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 9 This is an isometric view of the heat exchange component of a battery module according to an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A magnified view of part C in the middle.

[0053] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. First battery cell assembly; 2. Second battery cell assembly; 3. First liquid cooling plate; 4. Second liquid cooling plate; 5. Third liquid cooling plate; 51. Inlet; 52. Outlet; 61. First water inlet; 62. First water outlet; 63. Second water inlet; 64. Second water outlet; 7. Heat exchange structure; 71. Heat exchange component; 711. First heat exchange section; 712. Second heat exchange section; 8. Pipeline; 81. First pipeline; 82. Second pipeline. Detailed Implementation

[0054] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0055] 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 in the specification of the application 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 drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0056] The term "embodiment" as used herein 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 the phrase "embodiment" 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.

[0057] In this article, 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 mean: A exists, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0058] The directional terms appearing in the following description refer to the directions shown in the figures and are not intended to limit the specific structure of the battery module, battery pack, and battery cluster of this application. For example, in the description of this application, the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the figures. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0059] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification and claims of this application or in the aforementioned drawings are used to distinguish different objects rather than to describe a specific order, and may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features.

[0060] In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more (including two), and similarly, "multiple groups" means two or more (including two groups).

[0061] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linkage" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" or "linkage" in mechanical structures can refer to a physical connection, such as a fixed connection, for example, a connection secured by screws, bolts, or other spacers; a physical connection can also be a detachable connection, such as a snap-fit ​​or interlocking connection; a physical connection can also be an integral connection, such as a connection formed by welding, bonding, or integral molding. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. In circuit structures, "connection" or "linkage" can refer not only to a physical connection but also to an electrical connection or a signal connection. For example, it can be a direct connection, i.e., a physical connection, or an indirect connection through at least one intermediate component, as long as the circuit is connected; it can also refer to the internal connection of two components. Signal connection can refer not only to signal connection through a circuit but also to signal connection through a medium, such as radio waves. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0062] refer to Figures 1 to 10 As shown, this embodiment provides a battery module for installation inside a battery pack housing, and is capable of charging and discharging, so that the battery pack is, for example, formed as a power battery.

[0063] For details, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the battery module includes a first cell assembly 1, a second cell assembly 2, a first liquid cooling plate 3, a second liquid cooling plate 4, and a third liquid cooling plate 5.

[0064] First liquid cooling plate 3, third liquid cooling plate 5, and second liquid cooling plate 4 (see reference) Figure 1 and Figure 3 The components are arranged in a Z-direction stacked manner, with the third liquid cooling plate 5 connected to one of the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the second liquid cooling plate 4. The first battery cell assembly 1 is disposed between the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5, and makes heat exchange contact with both the first and third liquid cooling plates 3 and 5. The second battery cell assembly 2 is disposed between the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5, and makes heat exchange contact with both the second and third liquid cooling plates 4 and 5. The heights of both the first and second battery cell assemblies (i.e., their dimensions in the Z-direction) are not greater than a preset height. The side of the first battery cell assembly 1 makes heat exchange contact with one of the first and third liquid cooling plates 3 and 5, and the side of the second battery cell assembly 2 makes heat exchange contact with one of the second and third liquid cooling plates 4 and 5, respectively, through a heat exchange structure 7.

[0065] The third liquid cooling plate 5 is connected to one of the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the second liquid cooling plate 4, that is, the third liquid cooling plate 5 is connected to either the first liquid cooling plate 3 or the second liquid cooling plate 4. In this way, the third liquid cooling plate 5 and the first liquid cooling plate 3 or the second liquid cooling plate 4 can share the coolant. Compared with the solution of connecting the third liquid cooling plate to the external coolant supply equipment of the battery module through a complex water channel, the external water channel and connectors are reduced, which not only saves costs and reduces manufacturing difficulty, but also improves space utilization. Under the same structure, it helps to improve energy density and meet the design requirements of long driving range.

[0066] In some implementations, the third liquid cooling plate 5 can be connected to the second liquid cooling plate 4 located below it, so that the coolant in the second liquid cooling plate 4 can enter the third liquid cooling plate 5, thereby cooling the bottom of the first cell assembly 1 and the top of the second cell assembly 2. In other words, the third liquid cooling plate 5 is used to cool the battery module in the height direction (refer to...). Figure 1 and Figure 3 Cooling is performed on the middle part of the battery module in the Z direction, which to some extent avoids the occurrence of temperature gradient in the height direction of the battery module, improves the heat dissipation performance and efficiency of the battery module, ensures the charge and discharge rate of the battery pack with the battery module of this application, and extends the cycle life of the battery pack.

[0067] In some other implementations, the third liquid cooling plate may be connected to the first liquid cooling plate located above it.

[0068] The following embodiments are explained and illustrated in detail, taking the connection between the third liquid cooling plate 5 and the second liquid cooling plate 4 as an example.

[0069] A first battery cell assembly 1 is disposed between a first liquid cooling plate 3 and a third liquid cooling plate 5, with the first battery cell assembly 1 in heat exchange contact with both the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5. A second battery cell assembly 2 is disposed between a second liquid cooling plate 4 and a third liquid cooling plate 5, with the second battery cell assembly 2 in heat exchange contact with both the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5. Furthermore, the heights of both the first battery cell assembly 1 and the second battery cell assembly 2 do not exceed a preset height.

[0070] In other words, the battery module includes two layers of battery cell components, which are stacked one on top of the other, and the height of each battery cell component is no greater than a preset height. The battery module has two layers of battery cell components, and liquid cooling plates are arranged at the top and bottom of each battery cell component. Compared with the battery module with a single layer of battery cell components in related technologies, the height of each battery cell component is reduced, the heat transfer path between each battery cell component and the liquid cooling plate is shortened, and the heat of each battery cell component is more easily carried away by the corresponding liquid cooling plate, which to a certain extent avoids the phenomenon of temperature gradient in the height direction of the battery module.

[0071] Furthermore, since a third liquid cooling plate 5 is arranged between the two layers of battery cell components, the third liquid cooling plate 5 can cool down the bottom of the first battery cell component 1 located above and the top of the second battery cell component 2 located below, thereby reducing the temperature difference of each layer of battery cell components in its height direction, and further avoiding the occurrence of temperature gradient in the height direction of the battery module.

[0072] In addition, a heat exchange structure 7 is provided on the side of the first battery cell assembly 1, and the side of the first battery cell assembly 1 makes heat exchange contact with one of the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5 through the heat exchange structure 7. A heat exchange structure 7 is also provided on the side of the second battery cell assembly 2, and the side of the second battery cell assembly 2 makes heat exchange contact with one of the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5 through the heat exchange structure 7. In this way, the heat in the height direction of the first battery cell assembly 1 is also transferred to the first liquid cooling plate 3 or the third liquid cooling plate 5 through the heat exchange structure 7 on its side, which increases the contact area between the first battery cell assembly 1 and the first liquid cooling plate 3 or the third liquid cooling plate 5 and widens the heat dissipation path in the middle of the first battery cell assembly 1. Similarly, the heat in the height direction of the second cell assembly 2 will also be transferred to the second liquid cooling plate 4 or the third liquid cooling plate 5 through the heat exchange structure 7 on its side for heat exchange, which increases the contact area between the second cell assembly 2 and the second liquid cooling plate 4 or the third liquid cooling plate 5, widens the heat dissipation path in the middle of the second cell assembly 2, and further avoids the occurrence of temperature gradient in the height direction of the battery module.

[0073] The battery module provided in this embodiment consists of a first liquid cooling plate 3, a third liquid cooling plate 5, and a second liquid cooling plate 4 stacked sequentially, with the third liquid cooling plate 5 connected to one of the first liquid cooling plate 3 or the second liquid cooling plate 4. A first battery cell assembly 1 is disposed between the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5, and the first battery cell assembly 1 has heat exchange contact with both the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5. A second cell assembly 2 is disposed between the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5. The second cell assembly 2 is in heat exchange contact with both the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5. The heights of the first cell assembly 1 and the second cell assembly 2 are both no greater than a preset height. With this configuration, the battery module consists of two layers of cell assemblies, with the height of each cell assembly not exceeding the preset height. Each cell assembly has a liquid cooling plate at both the top and bottom. The top liquid cooling plate can remove some of the heat from the cell assembly, and the bottom liquid cooling plate can also remove some of the heat from the cell assembly. In other words, each cell assembly in the battery module is cooled down through the top and bottom liquid cooling plates, increasing the heat transfer path of the cell assembly and thus improving the heat dissipation performance of the battery module. Furthermore, since the height of each cell assembly is no greater than the preset height, compared with the related technology where the battery module consists of a single cell assembly, the height of each cell assembly is reduced, shortening the heat transfer path between the cell assembly and the liquid cooling plate. This allows the heat in the middle part of the cell assembly to be transferred to the top and bottom liquid cooling plates for dissipation in a timely manner, resulting in a more uniform temperature distribution of the cell assembly. This, to a certain extent, avoids the occurrence of temperature gradients in the height direction of the battery module, improves the heat dissipation performance and efficiency of the battery module, ensures the charge and discharge rate of the battery pack with the battery module of this application, extends the cycle life of the battery pack, and also reduces the risk of lithium plating.

[0074] Meanwhile, since the side of the first cell assembly 1 is in heat exchange contact with one of the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5, and the side of the second cell assembly 2 is in heat exchange contact with one of the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5 through the heat exchange structure 7, that is, the side of each cell assembly is in heat exchange contact with the top or bottom liquid cooling plate through the corresponding heat exchange structure 7, the heat dissipation path between each cell assembly and its top or bottom liquid cooling plate is increased, and the heat dissipation efficiency of each cell assembly is improved. Therefore, the heat in the middle part of each cell assembly can also be transferred to the top or bottom liquid cooling plate for heat exchange and cooling through the heat exchange structure 7, making the temperature distribution of the cell assembly more uniform. This further avoids the occurrence of temperature gradient in the height direction of the battery module, further improves the heat dissipation performance and efficiency of the battery module, and further ensures the charge and discharge rate of the battery pack with the battery module of this application, making the cycle life of the battery pack longer.

[0075] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the preset height is 120mm, that is, the height of the first cell assembly 1 is not greater than 120mm, and the height of the second cell assembly 2 is not greater than 120mm.

[0076] By ensuring that the height of the first cell assembly 1 is no greater than 120mm and the height of the second cell assembly 2 is no greater than 120mm, the height of each cell assembly in the battery module is appropriate. This not only shortens the heat transfer path between the cell assembly and the top and bottom liquid cooling plates, resulting in higher heat dissipation efficiency, but also facilitates the timely transfer of heat from the middle of the cell assembly to the top or bottom liquid cooling plates for heat exchange. This further avoids the occurrence of temperature gradients in the height direction of the battery module, resulting in better temperature uniformity.

[0077] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, one of the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the second liquid cooling plate 4 has a first inlet 61, a first outlet 62, a second inlet 63, and a second outlet 64, and the third liquid cooling plate 5 has an inlet 51 and an outlet 52. The first outlet 62, the second inlet 63, the inlet 51, and the outlet 52 are located on the same side of the corresponding battery cell assembly, and the first outlet 62 and the inlet 51 are connected through a first pipe 81, and the second inlet 63 and the outlet 52 are connected through a second pipe 82.

[0078] For example, refer to Figure 5 As shown, the third liquid cooling plate 5 and the second liquid cooling plate 4 are connected. The second liquid cooling plate 4 has a first water inlet 61, a first water outlet 62, a second water inlet 63 and a second water outlet 64. The first water outlet 62, the second water inlet 63, the inlet 51 and the outlet 52 are located on the same side of the second cell assembly 2.

[0079] By setting a first inlet 61, a first outlet 62, a second inlet 63, and a second outlet 64 on the second liquid cooling plate 4, and placing the first outlet 62 and the second inlet 63 on the same side as the inlet 51 and outlet 52 on the third liquid cooling plate 5, it is easy to connect the first outlet 62 and the inlet 51 through the first pipe 81, and easy to connect the second inlet 63 and the outlet 52 through the second pipe 82, thus realizing the connection between the third liquid cooling plate 5 and the second liquid cooling plate 4. The assembly is convenient, and the third liquid cooling plate 5 and the second liquid cooling plate 4 can be connected through the first pipe 81 and the second pipe 82. The third liquid cooling plate 5 can cool and dissipate heat from the bottom of the first cell assembly 1 and the top of the second cell assembly 2 without complicated water channels and connectors. The space utilization rate is high, which helps to improve the energy density of the battery pack.

[0080] For specific implementation, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 5As shown, the coolant enters the flow channel cavity of the second liquid cooling plate 4 through the first inlet 61 to dissipate heat from the bottom of the second battery cell assembly 2. After flowing through the second liquid cooling plate 4 to the first outlet 62, the coolant sequentially passes through the first pipe 81 (see reference). Figure 6 and Figure 7 (As shown by the dashed line with arrows), the coolant enters the third liquid cooling plate 5 through inlet 51. During its flow within the third liquid cooling plate 5, the coolant exchanges heat with the top of the second cell assembly 2 and the bottom of the first cell assembly 1. After flowing through the third liquid cooling plate 5 to outlet 52, the coolant sequentially passes through the second pipe 82 (see reference). Figure 6 and Figure 7 (As shown by the dotted line with arrows in the middle), the second water inlet 63 then flows back into the second liquid cooling plate 4 to dissipate heat at the end of the second battery cell assembly 2, resulting in high efficiency of coolant utilization.

[0081] In some embodiments, reference Figure 6 As shown, the position of the first outlet 62 corresponds to the position of the inlet 51, the position of the second inlet 63 corresponds to the position of the outlet 52, and the first pipe 81 and the second pipe 82 are arranged in parallel.

[0082] By arranging the first outlet 62 and the inlet 51 vertically and correspondingly, it facilitates the connection between the first outlet 62 and the inlet 51. Similarly, by arranging the second inlet 63 and the outlet 52 vertically and correspondingly, it facilitates the connection between the second inlet 63 and the outlet 52. This makes the first pipe 81 and the second pipe 82 easy to manufacture, implement, and assemble. For example, the first pipe 81 and the second pipe 82 can be metal pipes, which not only supply coolant flow but also provide some support for the third liquid cooling plate 5.

[0083] In other embodiments, reference is made to... Figure 7 As shown, the position of the first outlet 62 corresponds to the position of the outlet 52, and the position of the second inlet 63 corresponds to the position of the inlet 51. Both the first pipe 81 and the second pipe 82 are flexible pipes and are arranged intersectingly. For example, both the first pipe 81 and the second pipe 82 are corrugated pipes.

[0084] By arranging the first outlet 62 and outlet 52 vertically and correspondingly, and the second inlet 63 and inlet 51 vertically and correspondingly, that is, by staggering the first outlet 62 and inlet 51 along the height direction of the battery module, and staggering the second inlet 63 and outlet 52 along the height direction of the battery module, the front section of the flow channel of the second liquid cooling plate 4 corresponds vertically to the rear section of the flow channel of the third liquid cooling plate 5, and the rear section of the flow channel of the second liquid cooling plate 4 corresponds vertically to the front section of the flow channel of the third liquid cooling plate 5. This avoids overheating at the ends of the two-layer battery cell assembly, reduces the temperature difference of the battery cell assembly, and maintains temperature uniformity.

[0085] In some embodiments, the pressure in the flow channel cavity of the third liquid cooling plate 5 is less than the pressure in the flow channel cavity of either the first liquid cooling plate 3 or the second liquid cooling plate 4. That is, the pressure in the flow channel cavity of the third liquid cooling plate 5 is less than the pressure in the flow channel cavity of the first liquid cooling plate 3 or the second liquid cooling plate 4 connected to it. For example, the pressure in the flow channel cavity of the third liquid cooling plate 5 is less than the pressure in the flow channel cavity of the second liquid cooling plate 4. This facilitates the entry of coolant into the third liquid cooling plate 5, thereby removing more heat and improving the heat dissipation efficiency of the third liquid cooling plate 5.

[0086] For example, the pressure in the flow channel cavity of the third liquid cooling plate 5 is less than the pressure in the flow channel cavity of the second liquid cooling plate 4, which facilitates the entry of coolant in the second liquid cooling plate 4 into the third liquid cooling plate 5.

[0087] In some embodiments, reference Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the flow channel cavity of the third liquid cooling plate 5 is connected to the flow channel cavity of the second liquid cooling plate 4 through the pipe 8.

[0088] By connecting the third liquid cooling plate 5 to the second liquid cooling plate 4 located below it, on the one hand, the number of external water channels and connectors is reduced. The third liquid cooling plate 5 and the second liquid cooling plate 4 can be connected and shared through the pipe 8, resulting in high space utilization and helping to improve the energy density of the battery pack. On the other hand, the coolant first enters the second liquid cooling plate 4 located below, and the coolant stays in the second liquid cooling plate 4 for a certain period of time. After the liquid level in the pipe 8 connecting the two liquid cooling plates rises continuously, the coolant enters the third liquid cooling plate 5 located above, ensuring the cooling efficiency of the second liquid cooling plate 4 located at the bottom.

[0089] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the heat exchange structure 7 includes multiple heat exchange elements 71, and both the first battery cell assembly 1 and the second battery cell assembly 2 include multiple battery cell rows, with the multiple battery cell rows extending at least along a first direction (reference). Figure 2The cells in the first cell assembly 1 are arranged sequentially in the X direction. Each cell row in the first cell assembly 1 has heat exchange components 71 on both sides in the first direction, which are in heat exchange contact with one of the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5. That is, in the first cell assembly 1, heat exchange components 71 are provided between two adjacent cell rows and on the opposite sides of the two outermost cell rows. Each heat exchange component 71 is in heat exchange contact with the adjacent cell row and with one of the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5. The cells in the second cell assembly 2 have heat exchange components 71 on both sides in the first direction, which are in heat exchange contact with one of the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5. That is, in the second cell assembly 2, heat exchange components 71 are provided between two adjacent cell rows and on the opposite sides of the two outermost cell rows. Each heat exchange component 71 is in heat exchange contact with the adjacent cell row and with one of the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5.

[0090] In other words, in the first cell assembly 1 and the second cell assembly 2, each heat exchanger 71 is in heat exchange contact with the adjacent cell row and also with the top or bottom liquid cooling plate. In this way, the heat of each cell row in the height direction can also be transferred to the corresponding liquid cooling plate through the heat exchanger 71, increasing the heat dissipation path between each cell row and its top or bottom liquid cooling plate, that is, increasing the heat dissipation path of each cell assembly. This allows the heat of the first cell assembly 1 and the second cell assembly 2 in the height direction to be dissipated in a timely manner through multiple heat dissipation components, resulting in high heat dissipation efficiency and a more uniform temperature distribution. This, to a certain extent, avoids the occurrence of temperature gradients in the height direction of the battery module, further ensuring the charge and discharge rate of the battery pack with the battery module of this application, and further extending the cycle life of the battery pack.

[0091] For example, in the first cell assembly 1, each heat exchanger 71 is in heat exchange contact with the side of the adjacent cell row and also in heat exchange contact with the top first liquid cooling plate 3. In the second cell assembly 2, each heat exchanger 71 is in heat exchange contact with the side of the adjacent cell row and also in heat exchange contact with the top third liquid cooling plate 5.

[0092] In a specific implementation, the heat exchanger 71 can be made of a metallic material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum. In other implementations, the heat exchanger 71 can also be made of a carbon-containing composite material with a certain structural strength, such as graphene composite or carbon nanotube composite.

[0093] In other embodiments, the heat exchanger may be a heat pipe structure filled with a gas-liquid phase change material.

[0094] refer to Figure 9As shown, in some embodiments, the heat exchanger 71 includes a first heat exchange section 711 and a second heat exchange section 712; the first heat exchange section 711 is disposed on one side of the battery cell array in a first direction and makes heat exchange contact with the side of the adjacent battery cell array, and the second heat exchange section 712 is disposed at the end of the first heat exchange section 711 and intersects with the first heat exchange section 711.

[0095] When the heat exchanger 71 is located between the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5, the second heat exchange section 712 makes heat exchange contact with the corresponding battery cell array and one of the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5. When the heat exchanger 71 is located between the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5, the second heat exchange section 712 makes heat exchange contact with the corresponding battery cell array and one of the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5.

[0096] When the heat exchanger is a heat pipe structure, in the first cell assembly 1, the second heat exchange section 712 of the heat exchanger 71 is located on top of the first heat exchange section 711, and the second heat exchange section 712 is in heat exchange contact with the first liquid cooling plate 3 on top of it. In the second cell assembly 2, the second heat exchange section 712 of the heat exchanger 71 is located on top of the first heat exchange section 711, and the second heat exchange section 712 is in heat exchange contact with the third liquid cooling plate 5 on top of it.

[0097] In practical use, after the first heat exchange section 711 absorbs heat from the side of the corresponding cell array, the gas-liquid phase change material inside it absorbs heat and evaporates, then rises and reaches the second heat exchange section 712, which contacts the top liquid cooling plate. There, the material condenses and releases heat at the second heat exchange section 712, and then flows back to the first heat exchange section 711 after releasing the heat to the top liquid cooling plate. This process is repeated to achieve uniform temperature in the height direction of the first cell assembly 1 and the second cell assembly 2.

[0098] In a specific implementation, a first thermal conductive element may be provided between the first heat exchange section 711 and the side of the adjacent cell array, a second thermal conductive element may be provided between the second heat exchange section 712 and the end of the corresponding cell array, and a third thermal conductive element may be provided between the second heat exchange section 712 and the corresponding liquid cooling plate. The first, second, and third thermal conductive elements may be, for example, thermal grease, thermal gel, etc.

[0099] Through the above scheme, the first heat exchange section 711 of each heat exchanger 71 is in heat exchange contact with the side of the adjacent cell row, and the second heat exchange section 712 of each heat exchanger 71 is in heat exchange contact with the end of the corresponding cell row and the corresponding liquid cooling plate. In this way, each cell row, heat exchanger 71, and corresponding liquid cooling plate form a heat transfer path. The heat exchange contact area between the heat exchanger 71 and the corresponding cell row is large, so that the heat of the cell row in the height direction can be transferred to the corresponding liquid cooling plate in time for heat exchange and cooling through the heat exchanger 71. This increases the heat dissipation path of each cell row, thereby further increasing the heat dissipation path of the first cell assembly 1 and the second cell assembly 2. This allows the heat of the battery module in the height direction to be dissipated in time through the heat exchanger 71, resulting in a more uniform temperature distribution and further ensuring charging and discharging efficiency and cycle life.

[0100] In some embodiments, when the heat exchanger 71 is located between two adjacent battery cell rows, the heat exchanger 71 includes two second heat exchange sections 712; the two second heat exchange sections 712 are connected to the same side of the first heat exchange section 711 and are extended along a first direction toward a direction away from each other, and the two second heat exchange sections 712 respectively make heat exchange contact with the two adjacent battery cell rows.

[0101] When the heat exchanger 71 is arranged between two adjacent battery cell rows (i.e., the heat exchanger 71 is arranged within the first battery cell assembly 1 and the second battery cell assembly 2), two second heat exchange sections 712 are provided at the top or bottom of the first heat exchange section 711. The two second heat exchange sections 712 extend along the first direction in a direction away from each other. The first heat exchange section 711 and the two second heat exchange sections 712 can be formed into a T-shaped structure, for example. The two second heat exchange sections 712 respectively make heat exchange contact with the ends of the two adjacent battery cell rows. This arrangement increases the contact area between the heat exchanger 71 and the two adjacent battery cell rows, thereby increasing the thermal conductivity of the heat exchanger 71, improving the heat dissipation efficiency in the height direction of the battery module, further ensuring the charging and discharging efficiency of the battery pack, and making the cycle life of the battery pack longer.

[0102] In other embodiments, the top and bottom ends of the heat exchanger 71 may be provided with a second heat exchange section at the same time. In this way, the second heat exchange section at the top end of the heat exchanger can make heat exchange contact with the corresponding liquid cooling plate, and the second heat exchange section at the bottom end of the heat exchanger can also make heat exchange contact with the corresponding liquid cooling plate. This makes the heat exchange efficiency of the middle part of the first battery cell assembly 1 and the second battery cell assembly 2 higher.

[0103] In some embodiments, the second heat exchange sections 712 of all heat exchange components 71 located between the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the third liquid cooling plate 5 are all located on the same side of the first battery cell assembly 1 and connected. The second heat exchange sections 712 of all heat exchange components 71 located between the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the third liquid cooling plate 5 are all located on the same side of the second battery cell assembly 2 and connected.

[0104] By arranging the second heat exchange sections 712 of all heat exchange components 71 of the first cell assembly 1 on the same side of the first cell assembly 1 and connecting them together, and arranging the second heat exchange sections 712 of all heat exchange components 71 of the second cell assembly 2 on the same side of the second cell assembly 2 and connecting them together, all heat exchange components 71 of the first cell assembly 1 and all heat exchange components 71 of the second cell assembly 2 are formed into an integral structure. This not only facilitates assembly and helps improve the assembly efficiency of the battery module, but also avoids the phenomenon of different temperatures of heat exchange components 71 in different areas due to the inconsistent temperature of the coolant before and after the liquid cooling plate connected to the heat exchange components 71. The cooling efficiency of the cell assembly at the end of the coolant flow channel cavity is higher, further avoiding the phenomenon of temperature difference in the battery module.

[0105] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the heat exchanger 71 includes at least two heat exchange sub-elements, the at least two heat exchange sub-elements being located along the length of the cell array (see reference). Figure 3 (Set the Y-axis in sequence).

[0106] By including multiple heat exchange sub-components in the heat exchange component 71, in specific use, the multiple heat exchange sub-components are arranged sequentially along the length of the cell column to form the corresponding heat exchange component 71. Each heat exchange sub-component covers part of the side of the cell unit in the cell column. This arrangement is easier to implement in terms of process, reduces the process difficulty to a certain extent, and helps to improve the manufacturing efficiency of the battery module.

[0107] In some embodiments, the height of the heat exchange structure 7 is not less than 1 / 3 of the height of either the first battery cell assembly 1 or the second battery cell assembly 2.

[0108] By ensuring that the height of the heat exchange structure 7 is not less than 1 / 3 of the height of any cell assembly in the height direction of the battery module, the contact area between the heat exchange structure 7 and the first cell assembly 1 or the second cell assembly 2 in the height direction of the cell module is guaranteed. In this way, the heat exchange structure 7 can promptly dissipate the heat in the height direction of the first cell assembly 1 or the second cell assembly 2 connected to it, further avoiding the occurrence of temperature gradients in the height direction of the battery module.

[0109] refer to Figure 10 As shown, the thickness of the heat exchange structure 7 is 3mm-6mm.

[0110] For specific implementation, refer to Figure 10 As shown, the thickness H1 of the first heat exchange section 711 of each heat exchanger 71 is 3mm-6mm. The thickness H2 of the second heat exchange section 712 of each heat exchanger 71 is 3mm-6mm.

[0111] The thickness of the heat exchanger 71 is reasonably designed, which not only ensures good heat transfer efficiency and can effectively dissipate heat in the height direction of the first battery cell assembly 1 or the second battery cell assembly 2, but also does not occupy too much volume, which helps to improve the energy density of the battery pack and improve the driving range.

[0112] This embodiment provides a battery pack, which includes a hollow housing and a battery module.

[0113] The first cell assembly 1, the second cell assembly 2, the third liquid cooling plate 5, and the heat exchange structure 7 of the battery module are all housed inside the casing. The first liquid cooling plate 3 of the battery module seals the top of the casing, serving as the top cover. The second liquid cooling plate 4 of the battery module seals the bottom of the casing, serving as the bottom cover.

[0114] In practice, the first liquid cooling plate 3 and the housing can be connected by bolts, and the second liquid cooling plate 4 and the housing can be connected by bolts, which makes assembly convenient, easy to replace and maintain, and helps to save costs.

[0115] The battery module in this embodiment has the same specific structure and implementation principle as the battery module provided in the above embodiments, and can bring the same or similar technical effects. It will not be described in detail here. For details, please refer to the description of the above embodiments.

[0116] This embodiment provides a battery cluster, which includes multiple battery packs stacked one on top of the other. In two adjacent battery packs, the second liquid cooling plate 4 of the upper battery pack is the first liquid cooling plate 3 of the lower battery pack. That is, in the stacked battery packs, the joint of two adjacent battery packs shares the same liquid cooling plate.

[0117] The battery pack in this embodiment has the same specific structure and implementation principle as the battery pack provided in the above embodiments, and can bring the same or similar technical effects. It will not be described in detail here. For details, please refer to the description of the above embodiments.

Claims

1. A battery module, characterized in that, It includes a first cell assembly (1), a second cell assembly (2), a first liquid cooling plate (3), a second liquid cooling plate (4), and a third liquid cooling plate (5); The first liquid cooling plate (3), the third liquid cooling plate (5), and the second liquid cooling plate (4) are stacked sequentially, and the third liquid cooling plate (5) is connected to one of the first liquid cooling plate (3) and the second liquid cooling plate (4). The first battery cell assembly (1) is disposed between the first liquid cooling plate (3) and the third liquid cooling plate (5), and is in heat exchange contact with both the first liquid cooling plate (3) and the third liquid cooling plate (5). The second battery cell assembly (2) is disposed between the second liquid cooling plate (4) and the third liquid cooling plate (5), and is in heat exchange contact with both the second liquid cooling plate (4) and the third liquid cooling plate (5). The heights of the first battery cell assembly (1) and the second battery cell assembly (2) are both no greater than a preset height. The side of the first cell assembly (1) is in heat exchange contact with one of the first liquid cooling plate (3) and the third liquid cooling plate (5), and the side of the second cell assembly (2) is in heat exchange contact with one of the second liquid cooling plate (4) and the third liquid cooling plate (5) through a heat exchange structure (7).

2. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preset height is 120mm.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, One of the first liquid cooling plate (3) and the second liquid cooling plate (4) has a first water inlet (61), a first water outlet (62), a second water inlet (63) and a second water outlet (64), and the third liquid cooling plate (5) has an inlet (51) and an outlet (52); The first outlet (62), the second inlet (63), the inlet (51), and the outlet (52) are located on the same side of the corresponding battery cell assembly, and the first outlet (62) and the inlet (51) are connected through the first pipe (81), and the second inlet (63) and the outlet (52) are connected through the second pipe (82).

4. The battery module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The position of the first outlet (62) corresponds to the position of the inlet (51), the position of the second inlet (63) corresponds to the position of the outlet (52), and the first pipeline (81) and the second pipeline (82) are arranged in parallel. Alternatively, the position of the first outlet (62) corresponds to the position of the outlet (52), the position of the second inlet (63) corresponds to the position of the inlet (51), and the first pipe (81) and the second pipe (82) are both flexible pipes and are intersecting.

5. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pressure in the flow channel cavity of the third liquid cooling plate (5) is less than the pressure in the flow channel cavity of either the first liquid cooling plate (3) or the second liquid cooling plate (4).

6. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow channel cavity of the third liquid cooling plate (5) is connected to the flow channel cavity of the second liquid cooling plate (4) through a pipe (8).

7. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange structure (7) includes multiple heat exchange components (71), and both the first battery cell assembly (1) and the second battery cell assembly (2) include multiple battery cell columns, which are arranged sequentially at least along a first direction; Each of the cell rows of the first cell assembly (1) has heat exchange contact with one of the first liquid cooling plate (3) and the third liquid cooling plate (5) on both sides in the first direction through the heat exchanger (71); each of the cell rows of the second cell assembly (2) has heat exchange contact with one of the second liquid cooling plate (4) and the third liquid cooling plate (5) on both sides in the first direction through the heat exchanger (71).

8. The battery module according to claim 7, characterized in that, The heat exchanger (71) includes a first heat exchange section (711) and a second heat exchange section (712); The first heat exchange section (711) is disposed on one side of the battery cell array in the first direction and makes heat exchange contact with the side of the adjacent battery cell array. The second heat exchange section (712) is disposed at the end of the first heat exchange section (711) and intersects with the first heat exchange section (711). When the heat exchanger (71) is located between the first liquid cooling plate (3) and the third liquid cooling plate (5), the second heat exchange section (712) makes heat exchange contact with the corresponding battery cell array and one of the first liquid cooling plate (3) and the third liquid cooling plate (5); When the heat exchanger (71) is located between the second liquid cooling plate (4) and the third liquid cooling plate (5), the second heat exchange section (712) makes heat exchange contact with the corresponding battery cell array and one of the second liquid cooling plate (4) and the third liquid cooling plate (5).

9. The battery module according to claim 8, characterized in that, When the heat exchanger (71) is located between two adjacent rows of cells, the heat exchanger (71) includes two second heat exchange sections (712); Two second heat exchange sections (712) are connected to the same side of the first heat exchange section (711) and extend in a direction away from each other along a first direction. The two second heat exchange sections (712) respectively make heat exchange contact with two adjacent battery cells.

10. The battery module according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second heat exchange section (712) of all the heat exchange components (71) located between the first liquid cooling plate (3) and the third liquid cooling plate (5) is located on the same side of the first battery cell assembly (1) and connected. The second heat exchange section (712) of all the heat exchange components (71) located between the second liquid cooling plate (4) and the third liquid cooling plate (5) is located on the same side of the second cell assembly (2) and connected.

11. The battery module according to claim 7, characterized in that, At least part of the heat exchanger (71) includes at least two heat exchange sub-components, which are arranged sequentially along the length of the cell array.

12. The battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height of the heat exchange structure (7) is not less than 1 / 3 of the height of either the first battery cell assembly (1) or the second battery cell assembly (2); And / or, the thickness of the heat exchange structure (7) is 3mm-6mm.

13. A battery pack, characterized in that, It includes a hollow housing and the battery module as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A battery cluster, characterized in that, It includes multiple battery packs as described in claim 13, the multiple battery packs are stacked one on top of the other, and in two adjacent battery packs, the second liquid cooling plate (4) of the upper battery pack is the first liquid cooling plate (3) of the lower battery pack.

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