Sealing nails and lithium batteries

Abstract

This application provides a sealing nail and a lithium battery, comprising: a body having a first channel disposed along a first direction, and a second channel and a third channel disposed on both sides of the first channel, both of which communicate with the first channel; a valve assembly including a valve core and a first elastic member disposed inside the body, the first elastic member being connected between the valve core and the body, the first elastic member applying a biasing force to the valve core, causing the valve core to be in a state of cutting off the first channel, thereby disconnecting the third channel from the first channel; and a linkage assembly including a linkage rod and a second elastic member disposed inside the body, with at least a portion of the linkage rod located within the first channel, both the body and the linkage rod being connected to the second elastic member, the second elastic member applying a biasing force to the linkage rod, causing the linkage rod to always have a tendency to move outward from the body. This application can achieve the functions of replenishing electrolyte and venting gas from the battery.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Traditional battery filling hole sealing processes primarily employ interference-fit steel ball bonding and laser welding of sealing pins. These mature processes and high sealing reliability have played a crucial role in ensuring initial battery performance. However, both of these filling hole sealing methods are one-time, non-removable seals. As the number of battery cycles increases during actual use, side reactions such as electrolyte decomposition and active material decay occur within the cell, leading to continuous electrolyte consumption and internal gas accumulation. After sealing the filling hole using these methods, the sealing pins cannot be removed for replenishing electrolyte or venting internal gas. When the electrolyte is insufficient, battery capacity and charge / discharge performance will significantly decrease. Even if the battery has not reached its design life, it often has to be downgraded or scrapped. Furthermore, if the accumulated internal gas is not vented in time, it will further exacerbate polarization within the cell, accelerating battery aging and seriously threatening battery safety and reliability. Utility Model Content

[0003] In order to overcome the defects in the prior art, this utility model provides a sealing nail and a lithium battery, which can realize the functions of replenishing electrolyte and venting pressure in the battery, thereby improving the battery life cycle and reducing the cost of use and the scrap rate.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows:

[0005] The first aspect of this utility model discloses a sealing nail, comprising:

[0006] The main body has a first channel, and a second channel and a third channel are provided on both sides of the first channel, and the second channel and the third channel are both connected to the first channel;

[0007] A valve assembly includes a valve core disposed inside the body and a first elastic element. The first elastic element is connected between the valve core and the body. The first elastic element applies a biasing force to the valve core, causing the valve core to be in a state of cutting off the first channel, thereby disconnecting the second channel from the third channel.

[0008] A linkage assembly includes a linkage rod and a second elastic element disposed inside the body. The second elastic element is disposed between the body and the linkage rod. The second elastic element applies a biasing force to the linkage rod, causing the linkage rod to be in an initial position. The linkage rod can move towards the valve core in response to external pressure. The valve core can respond to the movement of the linkage rod to connect the second channel and the third channel.

[0009] The sealing pin in this application has a simple structure. When electrolyte injection is required, the valve core can move under external force, connecting the third channel with the first and second channels, thus enabling electrolyte replenishment and effectively slowing down the reduction in cell capacity, thereby extending the battery's lifespan. When venting is required, the linkage rod can move under external force, and the valve core moves in response to the movement of the linkage rod, connecting the third channel with the first and second channels, thus enabling venting from inside the battery. This effectively alleviates the performance degradation and cell casing deformation caused by cell gas generation and pressurization, thereby improving the safety and reliability of the cell.

[0010] Furthermore, it also includes a seal, at least a portion of which is detachably inserted into the second channel, the seal having a flow hole inside which communicates with the second channel.

[0011] The seal can close the second channel, which can effectively prevent external gas from entering the cell and causing contamination and corrosion, and prevent electrolyte leakage during replenishment.

[0012] Furthermore, it also includes fasteners, which are detachably disposed on the outside of the body and capable of closing the second channel.

[0013] Fasteners can further seal the sealing pins, ensuring their airtightness. At the same time, the fasteners are in close contact with the sealing part, which can prevent the seal from shaking during battery transportation and increase the airtightness of the sealing pins, thereby improving the reliability of the sealing pins in sealing the liquid injection hole.

[0014] Furthermore, the outer side of the body is provided with a first thread, and the inner side of the fastener is provided with a second thread. The body and the fastener are helically connected by the first thread and the second thread.

[0015] Connecting the body to the fastener via a threaded connection makes the connection between the fastener and the sealing nail body more secure. This not only simplifies the structure and makes it easy to operate, but also improves the reliability of the sealing nail in sealing the injection hole.

[0016] Furthermore, the linkage rod is provided with a first sealing ring, which is sleeved on the end of the linkage rod near the first elastic member. The first sealing ring is used to seal the connection between the linkage rod and the first channel, preventing the inside of the battery cell from being affected by the external environment, and improving the reliability of the sealing pin sealing the injection hole.

[0017] Furthermore, the first channel also includes a channel communicating with the outside of the main body. The linkage rod, responding to the biasing force of the second elastic element, can cut off the connection between the channel and the first channel. A removable plug is provided inside the channel to seal it. The plug is used to seal the channel, preventing the inside of the battery cell from being affected by the external environment, and improving the reliability of the sealing pin sealing the injection hole.

[0018] Furthermore, the sealing pin is provided with a boss, and the boss has a through hole inside, which communicates with the third channel. The boss is used to insert into the injection hole, thereby facilitating the assembly of the sealing pin onto the cover plate.

[0019] Furthermore, the boss has a conical structure, and the cross-section of the conical structure gradually decreases from the end where the boss is connected to the body to the other end away from the body. The conical structure makes it easier to install the sealing pin on the cover plate, improving installation efficiency. The conical structure also forms an interference fit with the end of the injection hole, improving the sealing effect and preventing electrolyte leakage when the battery cell is inverted.

[0020] Furthermore, a second sealing ring is fitted around the outside of the boss, and the second sealing ring has the same structure as the boss. The second sealing ring is used to seal the injection hole and the boss, preventing the inside of the battery cell from being affected by the external environment and preventing electrolyte leakage from the edge from corroding the solder joint.

[0021] The second aspect of this utility model discloses a lithium battery, the lithium battery including the sealing pin as described in any one of the first aspects, and further including,

[0022] A housing, wherein the housing is provided with an opening;

[0023] A battery cell, wherein the battery cell is disposed inside the housing;

[0024] A cover plate is connected to the housing and closes the opening. The cover plate is provided with an injection hole. A protrusion on a sealing nail is inserted into the injection hole. The sealing nail is welded to the cover plate.

[0025] Due to the application of the above technical solution, this utility model has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0026] This application, by setting multiple channels inside the sealing nail and connecting the valve core through a first elastic element, can realize the valve core cutting off and connecting the first and third channels. When electrolyte injection is required, the valve core can move under the action of external force, so that the third channel can connect with the first and second channels, thereby realizing the replenishment of electrolyte, thus effectively slowing down the reduction of cell capacity and improving the service life of the battery. When venting is required, the linkage rod can move under the action of external force, and the valve core moves in response to the movement of the linkage rod, so that the third channel can connect with the first and second channels, thereby realizing the venting of the battery internally, thus effectively mitigating the cell performance degradation and cell shell deformation caused by cell gas generation and pressure increase, and improving the safety and reliability of the cell.

[0027] To make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, preferred embodiments are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0028] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a sealing nail provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a flow diagram of a sealing nail injection fluid provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 3 This is a flow diagram of a sealing pin depressurization provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a sealing nail installation provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a structural diagram of a battery provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0034] The reference numerals in the above figures are as follows: 1. Body; 101. First channel; 102. Second channel; 103. Third channel; 2. Valve core; 3. First elastic element; 4. Linkage rod; 5. Second elastic element; 6. Connecting part; 7. Fastener; 8. Sealing element; 9. Flow hole; 10. First sealing ring; 11. Plug; 12. Boss; 13. Second sealing ring; 14. Housing; 15. Cover plate; 16. Injection hole. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. In addition, the accompanying drawings of the present invention are only simple schematic illustrations and are not depictions based on actual dimensions, as stated in advance.

[0036] In this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "forward," "backward," "between," "nearer," and "farthest" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are used only for the convenience of describing this utility model and for 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 utility model. It should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" 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 direct connection or an indirect connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0037] It should be understood that while terms such as "first," "second," and "third" may be used in this document to describe various components or signals, these components or signals should not be limited by these terms. These terms are primarily used to distinguish one component from another, or one signal from another. Furthermore, the term "or" as used herein should, as appropriate, include any combination of one or more of the related listed items.

[0038] Reference Figures 1-5 As shown, this application embodiment provides a sealing nail, including a body 1 and a valve assembly and a linkage rod assembly disposed inside the body 1.

[0039] like Figures 1-4 As shown, the main body 1 is provided with a first channel 101, and a second channel 102 and a third channel 103 are provided on both sides of the first channel 101. The second channel 102 and the third channel 103 are connected to the outside of the main body 1 and are both connected to the first channel 101.

[0040] The orientation and shape of the first channel 101, the second channel 102, and the third channel 103 can be flexibly configured. In some embodiments, the first channel 101, the second channel 102, and the third channel 103 are all configured in an inclined direction, a bending direction, etc.

[0041] like Figures 1-4 As shown, in this embodiment, the first channel 101 is arranged radially along the body 1.

[0042] The length and start and end points of the first channel 101 can be set according to the actual situation. In this embodiment, the first channel 101 extends from the side surface of the body 1 to its interior, and the extended end is located inside the body 1.

[0043] In some possible embodiments, the second channel 102 may be located on the side above the first channel 101. The second channel 102 may be configured as a curved structure, a bent structure, etc., to ensure that the second channel 102 is connected to the first channel 101.

[0044] like Figures 1-4 As shown, in this embodiment, the second channel 102 is located above the first channel 101 and perpendicular to the first channel 101, so as to facilitate the rapid injection of replenished electrolyte into the battery.

[0045] Preferably, the sealing pin is made of a high-strength, corrosion-resistant material. In one possible embodiment, the sealing pin is made entirely of aluminum alloy, thereby improving the overall structural strength of the sealing pin.

[0046] The valve assembly includes a valve core 2 and a first elastic element 3 disposed inside the body 1. The first elastic element 3 is connected between the valve core 2 and the body 1. The first elastic element 3 applies a biasing force to the valve core 2, so that the valve core 2 is in a state of cutting off the first channel 101, thereby disconnecting the third channel 103 from the first channel 101.

[0047] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, in order to facilitate the movement of the valve core 2, the body 1 has a chamber that communicates with the first channel 101. The valve core 2 is located in the chamber and can move in the chamber to cut off or connect the second channel 102 and the third channel 103.

[0048] It should be noted that the structure, shape and size of the chamber accommodating the valve core 2 can be flexibly set, such as circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular or irregular shape. The structure and shape of the chamber shown in the embodiments and figures of this application are only one of them, and their specific structure and size are not limited.

[0049] The structure, size, and shape of the valve core 2 can be flexibly set, and the valve core 2 and the first elastic element 3 can be adjusted at an angle according to the angle of the first channel 101. In some possible embodiments, the valve core 2 is set as a cylinder, cube, or other shape, and the valve core 2 and the first elastic element 3 are in an inclined state.

[0050] like Figures 1-4As shown, in this embodiment, the valve core 2 is set to an irregular shape, with part of the valve core 2 abutting against the port of the first channel 101, and the first elastic member 3 abutting between the end of the valve core 2 and the body 1, so that the valve core 2 always has a tendency to move toward the first channel 101, so that when the valve core 2 is not subjected to external pressure, it can automatically return to the state of cutting off the first channel 101.

[0051] It should be noted that the valve core 2 can be set at any position in the first channel 101, as long as the first channel 101 is cut off. This application does not make any specific limitation here.

[0052] In some possible embodiments, the third channel 103 may be located below the side of the valve core 2 or below the first channel 101. The third channel 103 may be configured as a curved structure, a bent structure, etc., to ensure that when the valve core 2 is actuated and moved, the third channel 103 is connected to the first channel 101.

[0053] like Figures 1-4 As shown, in an embodiment of this application, the third channel 103 is located below the valve core 2 and perpendicular to the chamber of the valve core 2, so as to facilitate the rapid injection of replenished electrolyte into the battery.

[0054] Preferably, the valve core 2 is made of a high-strength, corrosion-resistant material. In one possible embodiment, the valve assembly 2 is entirely made of polypropylene.

[0055] The linkage assembly includes a linkage rod 4 and a second elastic element 5 disposed inside the body 1. The second elastic element 5 is disposed between the body 1 and the linkage rod 4. The second elastic element 5 applies a biasing force to the linkage rod 4, so that the linkage rod 4 is in the initial position. The linkage rod 4 can move towards the valve core 2 in response to external pressure. The valve core 2 can respond to the movement of the linkage rod 4 to connect the second channel 102 and the third channel 103.

[0056] In this embodiment, the linkage rod 4 abuts between the body 1 and the second elastic member 5. The linkage rod 4 can move in response to external pressure. When the linkage rod 4 is not subjected to external pressure, it can move towards the outside of the body 1 under the biasing force of the second elastic member 5, thereby automatically returning to the initial position.

[0057] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, in order to facilitate the movement of the linkage rod 4, the body 1 has a chamber that communicates with the first channel 101. The linkage rod 4 is located in the chamber and can move within the chamber.

[0058] It should be noted that the structure, shape and size of the chamber accommodating the linkage rod 4 can be flexibly set, such as circular, elliptical, triangular, rectangular or irregular shape. The structure and shape of the chamber shown in the embodiments and figures of this application are only one of them, and their specific structure and size are not limited.

[0059] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the end of the linkage rod 4 is provided with a connecting part 6, so that the linkage rod 4 is in a horizontal T shape. The second elastic member 5 is connected to the connecting part 6, so that the second elastic member 5 can apply a biasing force to the linkage rod 4.

[0060] The linkage rod 4 is provided with a first sealing ring 10. The first sealing ring 10 is set on the linkage rod 4 near the connecting part 6 by means of sleeve, thereby further improving the sealing performance of the sealing nail.

[0061] In some embodiments, the linkage 4 is fixed by at least one second elastic member 5. In this embodiment, two second elastic members 5 are provided, which are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the first sealing ring 10. This allows the circumferential support force of the linkage 4 against the first channel 101 and the body 1 to be more uniform, so as to balance the circumferential elastic force on the linkage 4 throughout the circumferential direction.

[0062] Preferably, the linkage rod 4 is made of a high-strength, corrosion-resistant material to improve the overall structural strength of the sealing nail. In one possible embodiment, the linkage rod 4 is made entirely of aluminum alloy.

[0063] In some possible implementations, the first elastic element 3 and the second elastic element 5 are springs, rubber, or other elastic materials.

[0064] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the first channel 101 further includes a channel communicating with the outside of the body 1. This channel provides space for the external pressure-actuated linkage rod 4. The linkage rod 4, responding to the biasing force of the second elastic element 5, can cut off the connection between the channel and the first channel 101. A removable plug 11 is provided within the channel to seal it. This further seals the sealing pin and improves its sealing performance.

[0065] In one possible embodiment, the inner side of the channel is provided with an internal thread, and the outer side of the plug 11 is provided with an external thread that matches the internal thread. The plug 11 and the channel are helically connected by the internal thread and the external thread.

[0066] To improve the sealing performance of the sealing pin, the sealing pin also includes a sealing element 8, which is used to close the second channel 102. At least part of the sealing element 8 is detachably inserted into the second channel 102. The sealing element 8 has a flow hole 9 inside, which is connected to the second channel 102 for the flow of electrolyte.

[0067] In one possible embodiment, the seal 8 is made of rubber and is integrally molded by injection molding. The flow hole 9 is located inside the seal 8. When injecting liquid, the injection needle is inserted into the flow hole 9 from the top of the seal 8 to inject liquid.

[0068] In another possible embodiment, the seal 8 includes an air needle and rubber wrapped around the end of the air needle. The rubber is used to seal the end of the air needle to prevent the electrolyte from flowing out of the end of the air needle during injection. During injection, the injection needle is inserted into the needle hole of the air needle from the top of the rubber to inject the electrolyte.

[0069] like Figure 1 As shown, the sealing nail also includes a fastener 7 located outside the body 1. The fastener 7 is detachable and used to seal the sealing nail, further improving the sealing performance of the sealing nail.

[0070] In one possible embodiment, the outer side of the body 1 is provided with a first thread, and the inner side of the fastener 7 is provided with a second thread. The body 1 and the fastener 7 are helically connected by the first thread and the second thread.

[0071] In other possible embodiments, the body 1 and the fastener 7 can also be connected by a snap-fit ​​mechanism.

[0072] In one possible embodiment, the sealing pin is connected only to the fastener 7 or the seal to close the second channel 102.

[0073] In another possible embodiment, a seal is provided in the second channel 102, and a fastener 7 is externally connected to the sealing pin. When connected, the fastener 7 abuts against the end of the sealing part 9 to close the flow hole 9 and prevent the seal from shaking during battery movement.

[0074] The sealing pin is provided with a boss 12, which can be inserted into the injection hole, thereby making the installation of the sealing pin more convenient. The boss 12 has a through hole inside, which communicates with the third channel 103, so as to allow gas or electrolyte to flow out.

[0075] The structure, shape, and size of the boss 12 can be flexibly set. In this embodiment, the boss 12 has a conical structure, and the cross-section of the conical structure gradually decreases from the end where the boss 12 is connected to the body 1 to the other end away from the body 1, so as to facilitate the insertion of the sealing pin into the injection hole, and the sealing pin and the end of the injection hole form an interference fit to ensure good sealing performance.

[0076] A second sealing ring 13 is fitted around the outside of the boss 12, and the second sealing ring 13 has the same structure and size as the boss 12, thereby further improving the sealing performance of the sealing nail.

[0077] This application also provides a lithium battery, such as... Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the lithium battery includes the sealing pin described in the above embodiment, as well as a housing 14, a battery cell disposed inside the housing 14, and a cover plate 15 connected to the housing 14. The housing 14 has an opening, and the cover plate 15 is used to close the opening. The cover plate 15 has an injection hole 16. After the protrusion 12 on the sealing pin is inserted into the injection hole 16, the sealing pin is connected to the cover plate 15 by welding to ensure the sealing performance of the sealing pin.

[0078] The methods for replenishing electrolyte and venting / relieving pressure in the lithium battery described in this application embodiment are as follows:

[0079] When electrolyte needs to be replenished, loosen fastener 7 and align the replenishing pin with the flow hole 9 of the seal 8. While replenishing the electrolyte, apply pressure to the replenishing device. The valve core 2 moves in response to the applied pressure, connecting the first channel 101, the second channel 102, and the third channel 103, allowing the electrolyte to flow into the injection hole 16. After replenishment, without external pressure, the valve core 2 moves under the action of the first elastic element 3 to cut off the first channel 101 to form a seal. After wiping away excess electrolyte from the seal pin, tighten fastener 7. The flow diagram of the replenished electrolyte is shown below. Figure 2 As shown;

[0080] When pressure relief and venting are required, unscrew fastener 7, remove the seal and plug 11, insert the seal into the channel on the side of the body 1, and press the seal firmly. The linkage rod 4 will move inwards in response to the pressure, causing it to contact the valve core 2. The valve core 2 will then move to connect the first channel 101 and the third channel 103 in response to the applied pressure. Continue pressing the seal to maintain the connection between the first channel 101 and the third channel 103, thus continuously venting the battery cell. After venting, remove the seal and insert it into the second channel 102. Install the plug 11 in the channel on the side of the body 1 and tighten fastener 7. The gas flow diagram during pressure relief is shown below. Figure 3 As shown.

[0081] It should be noted that when adding electrolyte and venting pressure, the battery opening must be facing upwards.

[0082] The sealing nail structure provided in this application embodiment is simple and has strong sealing performance, which can effectively prevent external air from entering the battery cell and causing pollution and corrosion. The operation of replenishing and depressurizing is simple, environmentally friendly, and can be used to replenish and depressurize the battery multiple times, which can effectively increase the battery's service life and safety.

[0083] This utility model uses specific embodiments to illustrate the principle and implementation of the utility model. The above description of the embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core idea of ​​the utility model. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation and application scope based on the idea of ​​the utility model. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of the utility model.

Claims

1. A sealing nail, characterized in that, include: The main body has a first channel, and a second channel and a third channel are provided on both sides of the first channel, and the second channel and the third channel are both connected to the first channel; A valve assembly includes a valve core disposed inside the body and a first elastic element. The first elastic element is connected between the valve core and the body. The first elastic element applies a biasing force to the valve core, causing the valve core to be in a state of cutting off the first channel, thereby disconnecting the second channel from the third channel. A linkage assembly includes a linkage rod and a second elastic element disposed inside the body. The second elastic element is disposed between the body and the linkage rod. The second elastic element applies a biasing force to the linkage rod, causing the linkage rod to be in an initial position. The linkage rod can move towards the valve core in response to external pressure. The valve core can respond to the movement of the linkage rod to connect the second channel and the third channel.

2. A sealing spike as claimed in claim 1, wherein It also includes a seal, at least a portion of which is detachably inserted into the second channel, the seal having a flow hole inside which communicates with the second channel.

3. A sealing spike as defined in claim 1, wherein It also includes fasteners, which are detachably disposed on the outside of the body and capable of closing the second channel.

4. A sealing spike as claimed in claim 3, wherein The outer side of the body is provided with a first thread, and the inner side of the fastener is provided with a second thread. The body and the fastener are helically connected by the first thread and the second thread.

5. The seal according to claim 1, wherein The linkage rod is provided with a first sealing ring, which is sleeved on the end of the linkage rod near the first elastic member.

6. A sealing spike as defined in claim 1, wherein The first channel also includes a channel communicating with the outside of the body. The linkage rod can cut off the channel from the first channel in response to the biasing force of the second elastic element. The channel is provided with a removable plug to close the channel.

7. A sealing spike as defined in claim 1, wherein The sealing nail has a boss, and the boss has a through hole inside, which communicates with the third channel.

8. A sealing spike as claimed in claim 7, wherein The boss has a conical structure, and the cross-section of the conical structure decreases continuously from the end where the boss is connected to the body to the other end away from the body.

9. A sealing spike as defined in claim 7, wherein A second sealing ring is fitted around the outside of the boss, and the second sealing ring has the same structure as the boss.

10. A lithium battery, characterized by, The lithium battery includes the sealing pin as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, and further includes, A housing, wherein the housing is provided with an opening; A battery cell, wherein the battery cell is disposed inside the housing; A cover plate is connected to the housing and closes the opening. The cover plate is provided with an injection hole. A protrusion on a sealing nail is inserted into the injection hole. The sealing nail is welded to the cover plate.

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