Support and protection structure and battery module

Abstract

This utility model provides a support and protection structure and a battery module, relating to the field of battery technology, to optimize the support and protection structure of the battery cell to a certain extent and improve the pre-tightening force during the battery cell assembly process. The support and protection structure provided by this utility model includes a housing assembly and a support assembly; the housing assembly includes a first end plate and a second end plate, and the housing assembly includes a main housing, with a first positioning seat and a second positioning seat formed at the bottom of the main housing, and the first positioning seat and the second positioning seat are spaced apart along the length direction of the main housing; the first end plate forms a first connecting seat, which is connected to the first positioning seat, and the second end plate forms a second connecting seat, which is connected to the second positioning seat, so that the first end plate and the second end plate are spaced apart to form a positioning space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a support and protection structure and a battery module. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of new energy vehicles and energy storage technologies, the demand for lithium-ion batteries, as core power sources and energy storage units, has exploded. In the manufacturing process of lithium-ion batteries, the assembly process of battery modules directly affects the product's safety performance and energy density. Currently, mainstream battery modules typically adopt a multi-cell parallel or series structure, using external metal structural components (including end plates, side plates, and top plates) to achieve mechanical fixation and physical protection of the cell assembly.

[0003] In existing assembly processes, the sorted and grouped cylindrical or square cells are first placed on a bottom protective plate according to a predetermined arrangement. Then, the side end plates and top cover are installed sequentially. However, during actual assembly, when operators install the end plates, the cells rely solely on gravity to maintain contact with the bottom protective plate, lacking a lateral restraint mechanism. This makes them susceptible to displacement or tipping due to assembly forces during end plate insertion. This instability is particularly pronounced in the assembly of large-size battery modules, often requiring the assembly process to be interrupted to recalibrate the cell positions, severely impacting production cycle time and assembly efficiency.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a supporting and protective structure, namely a battery module, to solve the problems existing in the current technology to a certain extent. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a support and protection structure and a battery module, so as to optimize the support and protection structure of the battery cell to a certain extent and improve the pre-tightening force during the battery cell assembly process.

[0006] This utility model provides a support and protection structure, including a shell assembly and a support assembly; the support assembly includes a first end plate and a second end plate, the shell assembly includes a main shell, the bottom of the main shell has a first positioning seat and a second positioning seat, and the first positioning seat and the second positioning seat are spaced apart along the length direction of the main shell; the first end plate has a first connecting seat, the first connecting seat is connected to the first positioning seat, the second end plate has a second connecting seat, the second connecting seat is connected to the second positioning seat, so that the first end plate and the second end plate are spaced apart to form a positioning space.

[0007] The number of first positioning seats is at least two, and they are spaced apart along the width direction of the main housing. The first connecting seat is arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the first positioning seat. The number of second positioning seats is at least two, and they are spaced apart along the width direction of the main housing. The second positioning seat corresponds to the first positioning seat, and the second connecting seat corresponds to the second positioning seat.

[0008] Specifically, both the first positioning seat and the second positioning seat are U-shaped and are installed upside down at the bottom of the main housing. A first extension is formed between the two first connecting seats of the first end plate. The edge of the first extension forms a stepped structure with the first connecting seat to accommodate the first positioning seat. The end face of the first extension abuts against the bottom surface of the main housing. A second extension is formed between the two second connecting seats of the second end plate. The edge of the second extension forms a stepped structure with the second connecting seat to accommodate the second positioning seat. The end face of the second extension abuts against the bottom surface of the main housing.

[0009] Furthermore, the support assembly also includes a base plate, wherein both the first end plate and the second end plate are formed with a boss portion, the boss portion extending along the height direction of the first end plate and the second end plate, and both ends of the base plate are formed with a first mating portion, the first mating portion fitting into the boss portion.

[0010] The boss portion includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion, which are spaced apart along the length direction of the first end plate and the second end plate.

[0011] Specifically, the first protrusion has a first notch on its side, and the second protrusion has a second notch on its side. The first notch and the second notch are used to connect to the lifting hook.

[0012] Specifically, the support and protection structure provided by this utility model also includes a heating film, and an avoidance notch is formed at one end of the recess formed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion facing the bottom plate, and the wire outlet end of the heating film extends out from the avoidance notch.

[0013] Furthermore, wire-binding bridges are formed on the surface of the first end plate opposite to the second end plate and on the surface of the second end plate opposite to the first end plate, for bundling and positioning of the wires.

[0014] Furthermore, the support assembly also includes a top plate, which is disposed opposite to the bottom plate, and both ends of the top plate are respectively connected to the first end plate and the second end plate; the top plate, the bottom plate, the first end plate and the second end plate form a bearing space for bearing the battery cell.

[0015] Compared with existing technologies, the support and protection structure provided by this utility model has the following advantages: The support and protection structure provided by this utility model includes a shell assembly and a support assembly; the support assembly includes a first end plate and a second end plate, the shell assembly includes a main shell, a first positioning seat and a second positioning seat are formed at the bottom of the main shell, and the first positioning seat and the second positioning seat are spaced apart along the length direction of the main shell; the first end plate has a first connecting seat, which is connected to the first positioning seat, and the second end plate has a second connecting seat, which is connected to the second positioning seat, so that the first end plate and the second end plate are spaced apart to form a positioning space.

[0016] Analysis shows that the first and second positioning seats formed at the bottom of the main shell can form a limiting space. Correspondingly, the first connecting seat formed by the first end plate and the second connecting seat formed by the second end plate can achieve a stable connection between the first end plate and the first positioning seat, and a stable connection between the second end plate and the second positioning seat. After connection, the first end plate and the second end plate both extend vertically and are arranged opposite each other, thereby forming a positioning space.

[0017] Since the first end plate is connected to the first positioning seat and the second end plate is connected to the second positioning seat, the first end plate and the second end plate can obtain lateral constraints. Therefore, in the assembly process of this application, the first end plate and the second end plate can be installed in the main housing first, and then the battery cells can be placed in sequence to realize the assembly of the battery module.

[0018] In addition, this application also provides a battery module, including a battery cell and the above-mentioned support and protection structure, wherein the battery cell is arranged in the positioning space.

[0019] The support and protection structure provided in this application can provide lateral constraints during the cell assembly process, thereby avoiding the problem of tilting during cell assembly that affects the end plate assembly and improving assembly efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0020] 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.

[0021] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the support and protection structure provided in the embodiment of this utility model; Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the main shell in the support and protection structure provided in the embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first end plate in the support and protection structure provided in an embodiment of the present utility model; Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing the connection of the first end plate, the second end plate, the bottom plate, and the top plate in the support and protection structure provided in this embodiment of the utility model.

[0022] In the figure: 1-Main shell; 101-First positioning seat; 102-Second positioning seat; 2-First end plate; 201-First connecting seat; 2011-Reinforcing rib; 202-First extension; 203-Avoidance notch; 204-First protrusion; 2041-First notch; 205-Second protrusion; 2051-Second notch; 206-Wire tie bridge; 3-Second end plate; 301-Second connecting seat; 4-Bottom plate; 401-First docking part; 402-Connector; 5-Top plate; 501-Second docking part; 6-Heating film; 601-Outlet end. Detailed Implementation

[0023] 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, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations. Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely represents selected embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0024] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the utility model product is in use. They are only for the convenience of describing the utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the utility model. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0025] Furthermore, terms such as "horizontal" and "vertical" do not imply that components must be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but rather that they can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal than "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0026] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "connect" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0027] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any one of the relevant items listed and any combination of any two or more items.

[0028] For ease of description, spatial relation terms such as “above,” “upper,” “below,” and “lower” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another as shown in the accompanying drawings. Such spatial relation terms are intended to include not only the orientation depicted in the drawings but also the different orientations of the device during use or operation.

[0029] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various examples only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form is also intended to include the plural form. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” enumerate the stated features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof.

[0030] Variations in the shapes shown in the accompanying drawings may occur due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, the examples described herein are not limited to the specific shapes shown in the accompanying drawings, but include changes in shape that may occur during manufacturing.

[0031] The features of the examples described herein can be combined in various ways that will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application. Furthermore, although the examples described herein have various constructions, other constructions are possible, as will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but only on the basis that they can be implemented by those skilled in the art. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

[0032] like Figure 1 Combination Figure 2 As shown, this utility model provides a support and protection structure, including a shell assembly and a support assembly; the support assembly includes a first end plate 2 and a second end plate 3, the shell assembly includes a main shell 1, the bottom of the main shell 1 has a first positioning seat 101 and a second positioning seat 102, and the first positioning seat 101 and the second positioning seat 102 are spaced apart along the length direction of the main shell 1; the first end plate 2 has a first connecting seat 201, the first connecting seat 201 is connected to the first positioning seat 101, the second end plate 3 has a second connecting seat 301, the second connecting seat 301 is connected to the second positioning seat 102, so that the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 are spaced apart to form a positioning space.

[0033] Compared with existing technologies, the support and protection structure provided by this utility model has the following advantages: The support and protection structure provided by this utility model can form a limiting space through the first positioning seat 101 and the second positioning seat 102 formed at the bottom of the main shell 1. Correspondingly, the first connecting seat 201 formed by the first end plate 2 and the second connecting seat 301 formed by the second end plate 3 can realize the stable connection between the first end plate 2 and the first positioning seat 101, and the stable connection between the second end plate 3 and the second positioning seat 102. After the connection, the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 both extend in the vertical direction and are arranged opposite to each other, thereby forming a positioning space.

[0034] Since the first end plate 2 is connected to the first positioning seat 101 and the second end plate 3 is connected to the second positioning seat 102, the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 can obtain lateral constraints. Therefore, in the assembly process of this application, the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 can be installed in the main housing 1 first, and then the battery cells can be placed in sequence to realize the assembly of the battery module.

[0035] Preferably, in this application, the first connecting seat 201 is perpendicular to the first end plate 2, and the second connecting seat 301 is perpendicular to the second end plate 3. Therefore, in this application, reinforcing ribs 2011 can be further provided between the first connecting seat 201 and the first end plate 2, and between the second connecting seat 301 and the second end plate 3, thereby increasing the connection strength between the first connecting seat 201 and the first end plate 2, and between the second connecting seat 301 and the second end plate 3, and ensuring the support stability of the overall structure.

[0036] Optionally, such as Figure 1 Combination Figure 2As shown, there are at least two first positioning seats 101, which are spaced apart along the width direction of the main housing 1, and the first connecting seat 201 is arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the first positioning seat 101; there are at least two second positioning seats 102, which are spaced apart along the width direction of the main housing 1, and the second positioning seat 102 corresponds to the first positioning seat 101, and the second connecting seat 301 corresponds to the second positioning seat 102.

[0037] Preferably, there are two first positioning seats 101 in this application, and they are located near the side wall of the main housing 1, so as to ensure support for the first end plate 2. Correspondingly, there are two second positioning seats 102, which are arranged one-to-one with the first positioning seats 101, and can also provide stable support for the second end plate 3.

[0038] More preferably, the first positioning seat 101 and the second positioning seat 102 in this application are both U-shaped and are upside down on the bottom of the main housing 1, thereby forming a certain gap. When the first connecting seat 201 is connected to the first positioning seat 101 and the second connecting seat 301 is connected to the second positioning seat 102, they can form a certain gap with the bottom of the main housing 1, thereby reducing the problem of vibration of the main housing 1 affecting the stability of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 to a certain extent. In addition, the impact of vibration of the main housing 1 on the battery cell can also be reduced.

[0039] Optionally, such as Figure 3 As shown, a first extension 202 is formed between the two first connecting seats 201 of the first end plate 2. The edge of the first extension 202 forms a stepped structure with the first connecting seat 201 to accommodate the first positioning seat 101. The end face of the first extension 202 abuts against the bottom surface of the main housing 1. A second extension is formed between the two second connecting seats 301 of the second end plate 3. The edge of the second extension forms a stepped structure with the second connecting seat 301 to accommodate the second positioning seat 102. The end face of the second extension abuts against the bottom surface of the main housing 1.

[0040] Since the first positioning seat 101 and the second positioning seat 102 are U-shaped and upside down on the bottom of the main housing 1, they have a certain installation height. Therefore, by making the first end plate 2 between the two first connecting seats 201 and the second end plate 3 between the two second connecting seats 301 to form a first extension 202 and a second extension, the bottom of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 can abut against the bottom of the main housing 1, thereby ensuring the stable setting of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3.

[0041] Optionally, such as Figure 4As shown, the support component in this application also includes a base plate 4. The first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 are both formed with bosses. The bosses extend along the height direction of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3. The two ends of the base plate 4 are each formed with a first mating portion 401, which fits into the bosses.

[0042] like Figure 4 As shown, the docking part in this application is perpendicular to the base plate 4. Taking the docking part corresponding to the first end plate 2 as an example, the docking part of the base plate 4 facing the first end plate 2 is attached to the side of the first end plate 2 away from the second end plate 3.

[0043] In this application, the distance between the first mating portions 401 at both ends of the base plate 4 can be slightly smaller than the interval between the boss portions of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3, thereby forming an interference fit and realizing the connection between the base plate 4 and the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3.

[0044] Preferably, such as Figure 4 As shown, in this application, the connection between the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 and the base plate 4 is achieved by connecting parts 402 such as bolts or rivets. That is, a through hole is formed on the first mating part 401, and a mating hole is formed on the boss part corresponding to the through hole position. Fasteners pass through the through hole and the mating hole to achieve the connection between the two.

[0045] Optionally, such as Figure 1 Combination Figure 4 As shown, the boss portion in this application includes a first protrusion 204 and a second protrusion 205, which are spaced apart along the length direction of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3.

[0046] By forming two protrusions, the force can be distributed more evenly. Furthermore, since the base plate 4 is connected to the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 in this application by fasteners, the two protrusions can also, to a certain extent, prevent the fasteners from being exposed and avoid contact between the fasteners and the internal battery cells.

[0047] Optionally, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first protrusion 204 in this application has a first notch 2041 formed on its side, and the second protrusion 205 has a second notch 2051 formed on its side. The first notch 2041 and the second notch 2051 are used to connect the lifting hook.

[0048] The first notch 2041 and the second notch 2051 formed enable the rapid hoisting connection of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3, thereby improving transportation efficiency.

[0049] The first notch 2041 is formed on the side of the first protrusion 204 away from the second protrusion 205, and the second notch 2051 is formed on the side of the second protrusion 205 away from the first protrusion 204. This makes the force on the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 more uniform during hoisting, and avoids problems such as displacement during hoisting.

[0050] Optionally, such as Figure 3 Combination Figure 4 As shown, the support and protection structure provided by this utility model also includes a heating film 6. A relief notch 203 is formed at one end of the recess formed between the first protrusion 204 and the second protrusion 205 facing the bottom plate 4. The wire outlet end 601 of the heating film 6 extends out from the relief notch 203.

[0051] The heating film 6 set on the base plate 4 can control the temperature of the battery cell. Since the heating film 6 is connected to the circuit to obtain current and generate heat, this application forms an avoidance notch 203 in the recess between the first protrusion 204 and the second protrusion 205 facing the base plate 4, which can make the heating film 6 output end 601 extend smoothly. This ensures the connection of the circuit inside the battery module and also ensures the structural strength of the overall support structure.

[0052] Optionally, such as Figure 3 As shown, in this application, the surface of the first end plate 2 facing away from the second end plate 3 and the surface of the second end plate 3 facing away from the first end plate 2 are both formed with wire ties 206 for bundling and positioning of the wires.

[0053] Since the battery module needs to use cables to connect the cells and terminals, this application can form cable-binding holes by forming cable-binding bridges 206 on the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3. The cable-binding holes can be used to bundle and position the arranged cables, ensuring the stability and regularity of the cable arrangement.

[0054] Of course, such as Figure 4 As shown, the support assembly provided in this application also includes a top plate 5, which is disposed opposite to the bottom plate 4, and the two ends of the top plate 5 are respectively connected to the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3; the top plate 5, the bottom plate 4, the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3 form a bearing space for bearing the battery cell.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, in this application, the top plate 5 has second mating portions 501 formed at both ends, and the second mating portions 501 are also attached to the boss portion. Furthermore, in the technical solution provided in this application, the second mating portions 501 are also connected by structures such as bolts or rivets.

[0056] Preferably, the second mating portion 501 in this application spans the first protrusion 204 and the second protrusion 205, that is, the second mating portion 501 simultaneously covers the first protrusion 204, the second protrusion 205 and the recess formed between the first protrusion 204 and the second protrusion 205, thereby playing a role in supporting the first protrusion 204 and the second protrusion 205 to a certain extent, and ensuring the structural strength of the first end plate 2 and the second end plate 3.

[0057] In addition, this application also provides a battery module, including a battery cell and the aforementioned support and protection structure, wherein the battery cell is arranged in a positioning space.

[0058] The support and protection structure provided in this application can provide lateral constraints during the cell assembly process, thereby avoiding the problem of tilting during cell assembly that affects the end plate assembly and improving assembly efficiency.

[0059] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A support and protection structure, characterized in that, Includes housing components and support components; The support assembly includes a first end plate and a second end plate, and the housing assembly includes a main housing. A first positioning seat and a second positioning seat are formed at the bottom of the main housing, and the first positioning seat and the second positioning seat are spaced apart along the length direction of the main housing. The first end plate has a first connecting seat, which is connected to the first positioning seat. The second end plate has a second connecting seat, which is connected to the second positioning seat, so that the first end plate and the second end plate are spaced apart to form a positioning space.

2. The supporting and protective structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of the first positioning seats is at least two, and they are spaced apart along the width direction of the main housing. The first connecting seat is provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the first positioning seat. The number of the second positioning seats is at least two, and they are spaced apart along the width direction of the main housing. The second positioning seats correspond to the first positioning seats, and the second connecting seats correspond to the second positioning seats.

3. The supporting and protective structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, Both the first positioning seat and the second positioning seat are U-shaped and are installed upside down at the bottom of the main housing. A first extension is formed between the two first connecting seats of the first end plate. The edge of the first extension forms a stepped structure with the first connecting seat to accommodate the first positioning seat. The end face of the first extension abuts against the bottom surface of the main housing. A second extension is formed between the two second connecting seats of the second end plate. The edge of the second extension forms a stepped structure with the second connecting seat to accommodate the second positioning seat. The end face of the second extension abuts against the bottom surface of the main housing.

4. The supporting and protective structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support assembly also includes a base plate, and both the first end plate and the second end plate are formed with a boss portion. The boss portion extends along the height direction of the first end plate and the second end plate. Both ends of the base plate are formed with a first mating portion, and the first mating portion fits into the boss portion.

5. The supporting and protective structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The boss portion includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion, which are spaced apart along the length direction of the first end plate and the second end plate.

6. The supporting and protective structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first protrusion has a first notch on its side, and the second protrusion has a second notch on its side. The first notch and the second notch are used to connect to the lifting hook.

7. The supporting and protective structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a heating film, and a clearance notch is formed at one end of the recess formed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion facing the base plate, and the wire outlet of the heating film extends out from the clearance notch.

8. The supporting and protective structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surfaces of the first end plate opposite to the second end plate and the second end plate opposite to the first end plate are both formed with wire-binding bridges for bundling and positioning of the lines.

9. The supporting and protective structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The support assembly also includes a top plate, which is disposed opposite to the bottom plate, and the two ends of the top plate are respectively connected to the first end plate and the second end plate; The top plate, the bottom plate, the first end plate, and the second end plate form a bearing space for bearing the battery cell.

10. A battery module, characterized in that, It includes a battery cell and a support and protection structure as described in any one of claims 1-9, wherein the battery cell is arranged in the positioning space.

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