Connector and energy storage system

Abstract

The application relates to a connector and an energy storage system, and belongs to the technical field of the energy storage system. The connector comprises a plug, a socket and a connecting piece. The plug comprises a plug shell, a clamping jaw and an input copper bar. The plug shell is connected with other equipment. The clamping jaw is connected to the side of the plug shell away from the other equipment. The clamping jaw is used for plug connection with the corresponding part of the socket to form a stable and reliable electrical connection and guarantee the stability of the current transmission path. The input copper bar is arranged on the side of the plug shell away from the clamping jaw, and the input copper bar is partially arranged through the plug shell and connected with the clamping jaw. The end of the input copper bar away from the plug shell is connected with other equipment, that is, a stable electric energy conduction path from the other equipment to the clamping jaw is established through the connection of the input copper bar and the clamping jaw, so that electric energy can be smoothly transmitted from the other equipment to the clamping jaw. Through the technical scheme, the technical problem of complicated operation and inconvenient installation of the internal equipment of the existing energy storage box is solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of energy storage system technology, and in particular to a connector and an energy storage system. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, in large-scale energy storage equipment, the connections between battery modules, between battery modules and inverters, and between inverters and electrical cabinets are made using cables, which results in cumbersome operation and inconvenient installation. Utility Model Content

[0003] The present application provides an energy storage system that aims to solve the technical problems of cumbersome operation and inconvenient installation of equipment inside existing energy storage boxes; another objective of the present application is to provide an electrical device.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, according to a first aspect of this application, a connector is provided, comprising:

[0005] A plug includes a plug housing, a locking claw, and an input copper busbar. The locking claw is disposed on one side of the plug housing, and the input copper busbar is disposed on the side of the plug housing opposite to the locking claw. The input copper busbar partially passes through the plug housing and is connected to the locking claw.

[0006] A socket that engages with the plug. The socket includes a socket housing and an output copper busbar. The socket housing has a slot for accommodating the claw. Part of the output copper busbar is accommodated in the slot and engages with the claw, while another part extends out of the socket housing.

[0007] The connector is connected to the output copper busbar.

[0008] Optionally, the plug further includes a rib, which is disposed on the claw;

[0009] The socket housing also has a limiting groove that communicates with the plug slot. When the claw is inserted into the plug slot, the protruding rib is engaged in the limiting groove.

[0010] Optionally, the claw includes:

[0011] A first clamping part and a second clamping part are connected to each other, and a clamping groove is formed between the first clamping part and the second clamping part;

[0012] A connecting part is provided along the groove wall of the clamping groove and connected to the input copper busbar. When the claw is inserted into the insertion groove, the connecting part is connected to the output copper busbar to electrically connect the input copper busbar and the output copper busbar.

[0013] Optionally, the socket further includes:

[0014] A first ear plate is connected to the outer wall of the socket housing, and the first ear plate has mounting holes;

[0015] The elastic part is fitted into the first ear plate and covers the mounting hole;

[0016] The fixing part passes through the mounting hole and engages with the elastic part.

[0017] Optionally, the first ear plate also has a mounting groove communicating with the mounting hole, and the elastic part is engaged in the mounting groove.

[0018] Optionally, the elastic part has a wavy structure.

[0019] Optionally, the fixing part is provided with a slot in the circumferential direction;

[0020] The elastic part has a snap-fit ​​part, which can be snapped into the slot.

[0021] Optionally, the connector includes a first copper busbar and a second copper busbar connected together, with the end of the first copper busbar away from the second copper busbar connected to the output copper busbar, and the end of the second copper busbar away from the first copper busbar connected to another socket.

[0022] Optionally, the connector includes a third copper busbar and a busbar connected together, with one end of the third copper busbar away from the busbar connected to the socket, and the other end of the busbar away from the third copper busbar connected to the busbar module.

[0023] According to a second aspect of this application, an energy storage system is provided, comprising:

[0024] Battery module;

[0025] Converter;

[0026] Busbar module;

[0027] Of the aforementioned connectors, some connectors have one end connected to the battery module and the other end connected to the inverter; others connectors have one end connected to the inverter and the other end connected to the combiner module.

[0028] The connector in this application embodiment includes a plug, a socket, and a connector. The plug includes a plug housing, claws, and an input copper busbar. The plug housing is connected to other devices. The claws are connected to the side of the plug housing away from other devices. The claws are used to plug into the corresponding part of the socket to form a stable and reliable electrical connection, ensuring a stable current transmission path. The input copper busbar is located on the side of the plug housing away from the claws, and part of the input copper busbar passes through the plug housing and connects to the claws. The end of the input copper busbar away from the plug housing is connected to other devices. That is, a stable power conduction path from other devices to the claws is established through the connection between the input copper busbar and the claws, so that power can be smoothly transmitted from other devices to the claws. Through the above technical solution, this application aims to solve the technical problems of cumbersome operation and inconvenient installation of existing energy storage box internal equipment.

[0029] Other features and advantages of this application will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0030] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0031] To gain a more complete understanding of this application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals in the following description denote the same parts.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of one angle during connector connection in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure when the connector is not connected in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the plug in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the connector connection from another angle in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the socket at one angle in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the socket from another angle in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 7This is an exemplary implementation of the present application. Figure 6 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0039] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic part in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fixing part in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection state of the elastic part and the fixed part in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the ear plate in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the socket and the fixed bracket in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between the connector and the plug in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the overall internal structure of the socket energy storage system in an exemplary embodiment of this application.

[0046] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0047] 100 - Cabinet body; 110 - Receiving cavity; 120 - Fixed bracket; 121 - Bending part; 122 - Second ear plate; 130 - Insulating component;

[0048] 200-Battery Module;

[0049] 300-Converter;

[0050] 400-Connector; 410-Plug; 411-Plug housing; 412-Claw; 4121-First clamping part; 4122-Second clamping part; 4123-Clipping groove; 4124-Connecting part; 413-Input copper busbar; 414-Rib; 4141-Protrusion; 420-Socket; 421-Socket housing; 4211-Merging groove; 4212-Limiting groove; 422-Output copper busbar; 423-First ear plate; 4231-Mounting hole; 4232-Mounting groove; 4233-Clamping block; 4234-Counterhead; 424-Elastic part; 4241-Clamping part; 425-Fixing part; 4251-Clamping slot; 430-Connector; 431-First copper busbar; 432-Second copper busbar; 433-Third copper busbar; 434-Busbar;

[0051] 500-Bus Module. Detailed Implementation

[0052] 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 a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the protection scope of this application.

[0053] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, they should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist; for example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not explicitly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, product, or apparatus.

[0054] In the construction of current large-scale energy storage systems, the connections between battery modules, between battery modules and converters, and between converters and electrical cabinets mostly rely on front-facing cable connections. During installation, workers must accurately insert power cables into the corresponding interfaces to ensure circuit continuity; however, during later maintenance, the power cables must be carefully disconnected to allow for inspection and replacement of related equipment. This process of plugging and unplugging power cables is extremely cumbersome, requiring not only highly skilled workers but also significant time and effort to operate carefully. Even slight errors can lead to connection failures, severely hindering on-site construction progress and greatly reducing overall construction efficiency.

[0055] As the energy density of large-scale energy storage systems continues to increase, the specifications of power cables are also increasing. This not only requires more space for bending radii inside the energy storage enclosure to prevent cable damage from bending, but also more space for heat dissipation, as larger cables generate more heat during transmission. These requirements lead to a reduction in the space utilization rate inside large energy storage enclosures.

[0056] Furthermore, as energy density increases, cable specifications become larger, leading to higher cable prices and thus increasing the overall cost of the energy storage system. Overall, existing front-end cable connection methods have many shortcomings in terms of ease of construction, space utilization, and cost control, and urgently need improvement.

[0057] According to the first aspect of this application, referring to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 This application provides a connector 400, which includes a plug 410, a socket 420, and a connector 430. The plug 410 includes a plug housing 411, claws 412, and an input copper busbar 413. The plug housing 411 connects to other devices, such as a battery module 200, an inverter 300, or a busbar 434. The plug housing 411 protects the internal structure of the plug 410 and provides a stable mounting base, ensuring a tight connection with other devices. The claws 412 are connected to the side of the plug housing 411 facing away from other devices. The claws 412 are used to plug into the corresponding part of the socket 420, forming a stable and reliable electrical connection and ensuring a stable current transmission path. The input copper busbar 413 is located on the side of the plug housing 411 facing away from the claws 412, and a portion of the input copper busbar 413 passes through the plug housing 411 and connects to the claws 412. The end of the input copper busbar 413 away from the plug housing 411 is connected to other devices. That is, the connection between the input copper busbar 413 and the claw 412 establishes a stable power conduction path from other devices to the claw 412, so that power can be smoothly transmitted from other devices to the claw 412.

[0058] The socket 420 is engaged with the plug 410. The socket 420 includes a socket housing 421 and an output copper busbar 422. The socket housing 421 has a insertion slot 4211 for accommodating the claw 412. This insertion slot 4211 provides positioning for the claw 412 during connection and maintains stability to prevent the claw 412 from loosening from the socket 420. Part of the output copper busbar 422 is housed in the insertion slot 4211 and engages with the claw 412. This connection allows electrical energy transmitted from other devices to the claw 412 via the input copper busbar 413 to be smoothly transferred to the output copper busbar 422. Another part of the output copper busbar 422 extends out of the socket housing 421 for connection with other components of the energy storage system, promoting stable energy transmission throughout the system and ensuring coordinated operation of all components to efficiently achieve energy storage and power supply functions.

[0059] The connector 430 is connected to the output copper busbar 422. Specifically, one end of the connector 430 is connected to the output copper busbar 422 of one socket 420, and the other end of the connector 430 is connected to the output copper busbar 422 of another socket 420. That is, the connector 430 connects two sets of plugs 410 and sockets 420, thereby realizing the connection between two devices connected to the two sets of plugs 410 and sockets 420.

[0060] Through the above technical solution, the plug housing 411 provides both physical protection and installation stability when installed on other equipment. The precise fit between the claw 412 and the socket 420's insertion slot 4211 ensures a stable and reliable electrical connection. The input copper busbar 413 and output copper busbar 422 achieve efficient power conduction through the claw 412. The protective design of the plug housing 411 simplifies the installation process, and the positioning function of the insertion slot 4211 improves construction efficiency. In other words, this connector 400 simplifies the connection steps of various devices in the energy storage system. Compared with cable connections, this connector 400 is more convenient to install and quicker to connect.

[0061] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The plug 410 has an optimized claw 412 structure, with an added rib 414 to improve connection stability. The rib 414 is located on the claw 412, specifically extending along the outer contour of the claw 412 to form a mechanical positioning structure. The corresponding socket housing 421 has a limiting groove 4212 on the side wall of the insertion slot 4211, communicating with the insertion slot 4211. When other equipment is pushed into the cabinet 100, the claw 412 moves synchronously with the plug housing 411 and inserts into the insertion slot 4211 of the socket housing 421. At this time, the rib 414 on the claw 412 slides along the inner wall of the insertion slot 4211, and finally, the protrusion 4141 on the rib 414 engages in the limiting groove 4212 to form a mechanical lock.

[0062] The connection method described above firstly prevents the plug 410 from axially disengaging from the socket 420 through physical limiting, enhancing vibration resistance; secondly, it provides guidance during insertion, ensuring precise alignment between the claw 412 and the output copper busbar 422; and finally, a mechanical locking structure reduces contact resistance, ensuring the stability of high-current transmission. This design maintains the convenience of a pull-out connection while significantly improving the reliability of the electrical connection through mechanical structure optimization, making it suitable even for energy storage applications requiring frequent movement or vibration.

[0063] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The chuck 412 includes a connecting portion 4124, a first clamping portion 4121 connected to a second clamping portion 4122, wherein a clamping groove 4123 is formed between the first clamping portion 4121 and the second clamping portion 4122. The connecting portion 4124 is disposed along the groove wall of the clamping groove 4123 and is connected to the input copper bus 413. When the chuck 412 is inserted into the insertion slot 4211, the connecting portion 4124 is connected to the output copper bus 422 to electrically connect the input copper bus 413 and the output copper bus 422. It should be noted that the first clamping portion 4121 and the second clamping portion 4122 are arranged in a mirror image symmetrically to form a U-shaped clamping groove 4123. The connecting portion 4124 may be a metal spring, which is disposed along the groove wall of the clamping groove 4123 and connected to the input copper bus 413 by welding or a highly reliable crimping method. This connection method ensures that the connection part 4124 and the input copper bus 413 maintain a stable connection with low resistance during high current transmission, ensuring that electrical energy can be smoothly conducted from other devices to the connection part 4124 through the input copper bus 413.

[0064] When the claw 412 is inserted into the insertion slot 4211, the connecting part 4124 is tightly connected to the output copper bus 422. Specifically, the connecting part 4124 (such as a metal spring) is in contact with the surface of the output copper bus 422, thereby smoothly transmitting the electrical energy from the input copper bus 413 to the output copper bus 422, thus realizing the electrical connection between the input copper bus 413 and the output copper bus 422 and ensuring stable power transmission.

[0065] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7The structural design of the socket 420 has been further optimized. In addition to the socket housing 421 and the output copper busbar 422, it also includes a first ear plate 423, an elastic part 424, and a fixing part 425 to improve its practicality and adaptability in energy storage systems. The first ear plate 423 is connected to the outer wall of the socket housing 421 and has a mounting hole 4231. The elastic part 424 is fitted into the first ear plate 423 and covers the mounting hole 4231; the fixing part 425 passes through the mounting hole 4231 and engages with the elastic part 424, and is connected to the cabinet 100. It should be noted that the first ear plate 423 is a plate-like structure, and its thickness is determined based on the load-bearing strength and overall weight requirements. It is firmly connected to the outer wall of the socket housing 421 through welding or designed as an integral structure with the socket housing 421, providing a stable foundation for subsequent component installation. The fixing part 425 can be bolted. The mounting hole 4231 is an oblong hole, and the diameter of the oblong hole is the range of movement of the fixing part 425. The design of the oblong hole's diameter also takes into account the adjustment range required by the socket 420 during the docking process with the plug 410, providing a large space for fine-tuning the position of the socket 420. During installation and use, when the socket 420 needs to be adjusted, the fixing part 425 can move within the width range of the oblong hole, causing the socket 420 to shift as a whole. Combined with the elastic deformation of the elastic part 424, this further enhances the self-adjusting capability of the socket 420. This embodiment allows the socket 420 to move within a certain space relative to the cabinet 100, so that during blind insertion (i.e., when the plug 410 docks with the socket 420), the self-adjusting during the insertion process makes the insertion smoother.

[0066] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 11 The first ear plate 423 also has a mounting groove 4232 communicating with the mounting hole 4231. The groove opening of the mounting groove 4232 penetrates the side of the first ear plate 423 facing the cabinet 100. The elastic part 424 has a wavy structure and is embedded in the mounting groove 4232. It should be noted that, to ensure that the elastic part 424 will not detach from the mounting groove 4232 during long-term use, at least two locking blocks 4233 are provided on the side wall of the mounting groove 4232. These locking blocks 4233 work in conjunction with the bottom of the mounting groove 4232 to limit the elastic part 424 in the thickness direction, so that the elastic part 424 is firmly embedded between the locking blocks 4233 and the bottom of the mounting groove 4232, ensuring the stability of the elastic part 424 during operation.

[0067] It should be noted that, firstly, the wave-shaped structure gives the elastic part 424 a stronger elastic deformation capability. When the plug 410 and the socket 420 are connected, the plug 410 can be deformed to drive the socket 420 to move adaptively within a certain range, effectively compensating for the installation error when the plug 410 and the socket 420 are connected, making the connection process smoother and significantly improving the success rate of blind insertion. Secondly, the wave-shaped structure can evenly distribute stress when subjected to force, reducing the risk of local overload. Even if it is subjected to connection force or vibration for a long time, it can maintain stable elastic performance, reduce the probability of fatigue damage, and improve structural reliability. Thirdly, the wave-shaped structure can be precisely matched with the locking block 4233, countersunk hole 4234 and other structures in the mounting groove 4232. While realizing elastic adjustment, it ensures that the elastic part 424 is always firmly embedded in the mounting groove 4232 to avoid falling off, thereby ensuring the stability and continuity of the position adjustment of the socket 420 in the energy storage system and providing a guarantee for the efficient operation of the entire connection system.

[0068] To allow the socket housing 421 to move flexibly within a certain range, effectively ignoring potential installation errors when the plug 410 and socket 420 are mated, two countersunk holes 4234 are symmetrically formed at the bottom of the mounting groove 4232. Each end of the elastic part 424 is precisely inserted into one of the countersunk holes 4234, thus firmly defining the position of the elastic part 424. This means that regardless of how the elastic part 424 deforms during operation, its entire structure will not exceed the range of the mounting groove 4232, ensuring that the elastic part 424 functions stably within the defined space.

[0069] When the plug 410 and socket 420 are mated, the fixing part 425 is securely connected to the pre-drilled threaded hole on the cabinet 100 via a nut, and the relative position of the fixing part 425 and the cabinet 100 remains unchanged. At this time, due to the special structure and installation method of the elastic part 424, when the plug 410 applies mating force, the elastic part 424 will deform accordingly. This deformation, in turn, causes the socket 420 to shift to a certain extent, allowing the socket 420 to adaptively adjust according to the position of the plug 410, ultimately achieving a smooth and precise connection with the plug 410. This design greatly improves the success rate of the mating between the plug 410 and socket 420, effectively reduces the risk of connection failure due to installation deviations, and significantly improves the installation efficiency and overall reliability of the energy storage system.

[0070] In some examples, see Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10The fixing part 425 has a groove 4251 arranged circumferentially, and the elastic part 424 has a snap-fit ​​part 4241, which is fitted into the groove 4251. It should be noted that the groove 4251 is annularly surrounding the outer wall of the fixing part 425, and its width and depth are precisely calculated to accommodate the snap-fit ​​requirements of the elastic part 424. The shape of the snap-fit ​​part 4241 matches the groove 4251, and it is made of the same highly elastic, fatigue-resistant rubber material as the main body of the elastic part 424. Furthermore, the surface of the snap-fit ​​part 4241 may be textured to enhance the friction between it and the groove 4251. During installation, the snap-fit ​​part 4241 is precisely snapped into the slot 4251, which not only ensures the stability of the connection between the elastic part 424 and the fixed part 425, but also allows the elastic part 424 to closely follow the displacement of the fixed part 425 and undergo corresponding deformation when the fixed part 425 moves in the elongated hole. This further optimizes the adaptive adjustment performance of the socket 420 when facing different docking situations, and effectively improves the working reliability and stability of the socket 420 in the energy storage system.

[0071] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 12 To ensure a safe distance between electrical components, the socket 420 is connected to the cabinet 100 via a fixing bracket 120, and an insulating component 130 is fitted onto the fixing part 425. It should be noted that the fixing bracket 120 is made of insulating material and has a bent portion 121 and two second ear plates 122. The two second ear plates 122 are located on both sides of the bent portion 121, and the connection between the fixing bracket 120 and the cabinet 100 is achieved through the fixing of the second ear plates 122 to the cabinet 100. The bent portion 121 provides a dedicated installation area for the fixing part 425. When the fixing part 425 is installed on the bent portion 121, a safe gap is formed between the socket 420 and the cabinet 100. This gap size meets the strict requirements of electrical safety regulations for safe distances, effectively avoiding safety hazards such as electrical short circuits and arc discharges that may be caused by electrical components being too close together. The fixing part 425, in conjunction with the nut, securely mounts the socket 420 onto the fixing bracket 120. The torque for tightening the nut is precisely calculated to ensure a firm and reliable installation of the fixing part 425 on the fixing bracket 120. The insulating component 130 is fitted onto the fixing part 425 and positioned between the first ear plate 423 and the fixing bracket 120. After the fixing part 425 is installed, the insulating component 130 effectively isolates any potential electrical conduction paths between the first ear plate 423 and the fixing bracket 120. Even under extreme conditions, such as abnormal leakage in the electrical system, the insulating component 130 prevents current from being conducted through the fixing part 425 to the cabinet 100, comprehensively ensuring the stability and reliability of the energy storage system during operation and greatly reducing the risk of accidents caused by electrical safety issues.

[0072] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 13 The connector 430 includes a first copper busbar 431 and a second copper busbar 432 connected to each other. The end of the first copper busbar 431 furthest from the second copper busbar 432 is connected to an output copper busbar 422, which is electrically connected to other devices and serves as the node for those devices to output electrical power. The end of the second copper busbar 432 furthest from the first copper busbar 431 is connected to a socket 420 of another connector 400, which in turn is electrically connected to a plug 410 on another device. This forms a complete power transmission path from one device to another via the connector 430.

[0073] It should be noted that the first copper busbar 431 adopts a flexible copper busbar design. The flexible copper busbar has excellent flexibility, which effectively buffers minor displacements or vibrations that may occur between other devices and the cabinet 100, preventing line damage caused by rigid connections and ensuring the stability of power transmission. Simultaneously, its flexibility facilitates installation and wiring in the complex spatial environment inside the cabinet 100, improving installation convenience. The second copper busbar 432, on the other hand, is a rigid copper busbar. The rigid copper busbar possesses high mechanical strength and good conductivity, stably supporting the entire structure of the connector 430 and ensuring that its own deformation does not affect electrical performance during power transmission. Furthermore, the connection between the rigid copper busbar and the output copper busbar 422 of the socket 420 is more robust and reliable, further ensuring that the power from the first copper busbar 431 can be smoothly transmitted through the second copper busbar 432 to the socket 420, and then to another device, achieving efficient and stable power exchange between devices.

[0074] In some examples, the socket 420 is also connected to a first copper busbar 431, meaning that both ends of the second copper busbar 432 are connected to a first copper busbar 431. Specifically, one end of the first copper busbar 431 of the second copper busbar 432 is connected to a socket 420, which in turn connects to a plug 410 on another device; the other end of the first copper busbar 431 of the second copper busbar 432 is connected to another socket 420, which in turn connects to a plug 410 on another device. The first copper busbar 431 adopts a flexible copper busbar design, which has good flexibility. This characteristic allows it to effectively buffer against minor displacements or vibrations that may occur between other devices and the cabinet 100, avoiding damage to the wiring caused by rigid connections, thereby ensuring the stability of power transmission. This connection method cleverly utilizes the combination of two first copper busbars 431 and second copper busbars 432 to successfully build an electrical connection bridge between one device and another, further enriching the path selection for power transmission. It also ensures the efficiency and stability of power interaction between devices, adapting to the diverse needs of power transmission connections in different application scenarios.

[0075] In some examples, please refer to Figure 14 The connector 430 includes a third copper busbar 433 and a busbar 434 connected together, which are responsible for the power transmission between the converter 300 and the busbar module 500. The end of the third copper busbar 433 away from the busbar 434 is connected to a socket 420 installed on the cabinet 100. The socket 420 serves as the starting point of the connection and receives the power transmitted from the converter 300 via the plug 410. The third copper busbar 433 is made of hard copper to stably support the connection structure and ensure that the power transmission is not affected by its own deformation.

[0076] The end of busbar 434 furthest from the third copper busbar 433 is connected to busbar module 500. Busbar 434 is typically made of rigid material and has a large conductive cross-sectional area, capable of carrying a large current. It aggregates and integrates the electrical energy from multiple third copper busbars 433, and then efficiently and stably transmits it to busbar module 500. In busbar module 500, the electrical energy undergoes further distribution and management to meet the power needs of different components in the entire energy storage system. Through the coordinated work of the third copper busbar 433 and busbar 434, connector 430 successfully establishes a stable and reliable power transmission bridge between converter 300 and busbar module 500, allowing the electrical energy converted by converter 300 to smoothly reach busbar module 500. This effectively ensures the efficiency and stability of power distribution in the entire energy storage system and meets the complex power transmission and management needs of large-scale energy storage systems.

[0077] According to a second aspect of this application, an energy storage system is provided, which includes the connector 400 described above. This energy storage system possesses all the beneficial effects of the connector 400 described above, which will not be repeated here. Please refer to... Figure 14 The energy storage system includes a cabinet 100, battery modules 200, a converter 300, and connectors 400. The cabinet 100 has a receiving cavity 110. The cabinet 100 provides physical protection and structural support for the entire energy storage system, ensuring that its internal components operate in a stable environment. The battery modules 200 and converter 300 are spaced apart and housed within the receiving cavity 110. The connectors 400 include plugs 410 and sockets 420 for mating. It should be noted that multiple plugs 410 are installed on the side of the battery modules 200, converter 300, and combiner module 500 facing the cabinet 100, and multiple sockets 420 are installed at corresponding positions on the cabinet 100. During installation, the battery modules 200, converter 300, and combiner module 500 are pushed into the cabinet 100 until each plug 410 is inserted into its corresponding socket 420. This achieves quick and convenient installation, and compared to traditional cable connections, it saves a lot of space, which can further improve the energy density of the energy storage system and increase the space utilization rate inside the energy storage box.

[0078] Connector 400 mounted on battery module 200 and connector 400 mounted on inverter 300 are connected via connector 430. Specifically, one end of connector 430 is connected to socket 420 of connector 400 mounted on battery module 200, and the other end of connector 430 is connected to socket 420 of inverter 300, thereby connecting battery module 200 and inverter 300. Similarly, connector 400 mounted on inverter 300 and connector 400 mounted on combiner module 500 are connected via connector 430. Specifically, one end of connector 430 is connected to socket 420 of connector 400 mounted on inverter 300, and the other end of connector 430 is connected to socket 420 of combiner module 500, thereby connecting inverter 300 and combiner module 500.

[0079] It should be noted that the battery module 200 absorbs and stores electrical energy during off-peak hours; and during peak hours or when power is needed, it can release the stored electrical energy to provide power support for external devices or the power grid. The inverter 300 can convert the DC power output from the battery module 200 into AC power suitable for grid connection or power supply. During charging, it can convert the AC power back into DC power to charge the battery module 200, achieving flexible conversion between different current forms. A reliable power transmission path between the battery module 200 and the inverter 300 is successfully established through the connector 430, allowing the electrical energy output from the battery module 200 to smoothly reach the inverter 300, or allowing the processed electrical energy from the inverter 300 to be transmitted back to the battery module 200, achieving efficient and stable power interaction between the two.

[0080] Specifically, there are multiple inverters 300 and battery modules 200. The inverters 300 are stacked in layers along the height of the cabinet 100, with each layer of inverters 300 arranged horizontally to form a vertically stacked multi-layer structure. Multiple battery modules 200 are arranged in a matrix on the same side of the multiple inverters 300, i.e., the left or right side of the cabinet 100, distributed according to a preset row and column spacing rule to form a modular two-dimensional array. Each layer of inverters 300 is electrically connected to its corresponding battery module 200 through connectors 430, forming a vertically layered and horizontally partitioned power transmission network. This layout ensures the independence of the heat dissipation ducts of the inverters 300, makes the heat distribution among the battery modules 200 more uniform, and significantly shortens the cable path length from the battery modules 200 to the inverters 300, effectively improving the space utilization of the cabinet 100. In addition, the positive and negative terminals of each battery module 200 are connected to the corresponding sockets 420 on the cabinet 100 via independent plugs 410. Connectors 430 connect the positive and negative terminals of the battery module 200 to the corresponding connectors 400 on the DC side of the inverter 300, forming a bipolar independent connection structure. This achieves one-to-one electrical coupling between the positive and negative terminals of the battery module 200 and the DC bus of the inverter 300. In this embodiment, the battery module 200 and the inverter 300 can be conveniently connected to the sockets 420 fixed on the cabinet 100 by a pull-out mechanism. Specifically, the connector 400 includes a plug 410 mounted on the battery module 200. When the battery module 200 needs to be installed, the installer simply pushes it into the cabinet 100 along a specific track, like pushing a drawer. The plug 410 then precisely inserts into the socket 420 fixed on the cabinet 100, establishing a stable electrical connection between the battery module 200 and the internal connection system of the cabinet 100, enabling smooth power transmission. Similarly, the inverter 300, through a pull-out action, allows the plug 410 mounted on the inverter 300 to connect with the socket 420 on the cabinet 100, completing the connection between the inverter 300 and the internal connection system of the cabinet 100.

[0081] Through the above technical solution, the cabinet 100 provides physical protection and structural support for the system, ensuring the stable operation of the components; the battery module 200 stores energy during off-peak hours and supplies power during peak hours, while the converter 300 flexibly converts the current form. The two achieve efficient and stable power exchange through the connector 430; the pull-out connection allows the battery module 200 and converter 300, equipped with plugs 410, to be easily connected to the sockets 420 on the cabinet 100, simplifying the installation process, reducing installation and maintenance difficulty, improving on-site construction efficiency, reducing reliance on large-specification power cables, eliminating the need to reserve a large amount of cable space, improving the utilization rate of the internal space of the cabinet 100, and reducing cable procurement costs, resulting in significant cost control effects. Furthermore, it ensures stable and efficient power transmission and enhances system scalability.

[0082] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 14 In addition to the aforementioned cabinet 100, battery module 200, inverter 300, and connector 400, the energy storage system also includes a combiner module 500. The combiner module 500 and inverter 300 are spaced apart within the housing cavity 110 of the cabinet 100. Plugs 410 are spaced apart on the inverter 300 and electrically connected to it, serving to extract the processed electrical energy. One end of a connector 430 connects to a socket 420 on the cabinet 100, and the other end connects to the combiner module 500. The connector 430 acts as a bridge for power transmission between the inverter 300 and the combiner module 500, ensuring that the converted electrical energy from the inverter 300 can be smoothly transmitted to the combiner module 500. The combiner module 500 plays a crucial role in the entire energy storage system. It integrates various electrical control components such as circuit breakers, relays, and control panels. It is mainly responsible for the precise management and distribution of electrical signals and power flow within the energy storage system, thereby ensuring the efficient and stable operation of the entire large-scale energy storage system.

[0083] The above technical solutions enrich the energy storage system architecture, adding power management and distribution functions to the entire system, making the system more comprehensive; strengthening power control, the combiner module 500 integrates multiple electrical control components, enabling precise management and distribution of electrical signals and power flow within the system, optimizing system operation, and ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. Robust connection expansion, through the corresponding connector 400, provides a robust connection while adding an interface for the energy storage system to connect to the combiner module 500, expanding the possibilities for energy storage system connectivity. Clearly defining the power flow direction, the power transmission path between the converter 300 and the combiner module 500 is clearly defined, and the connector 430 bridges the gap, ensuring smooth power transmission from the converter 300 to the combiner module 500.

[0084] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0085] The embodiments, implementation methods, and related technical features of this application can be combined and substituted for each other without conflict.

[0086] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application in any way. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of this application without departing from the technical solution of this application shall still fall within the scope of the technical solution of this application.

Claims

1. A connector, characterized in that, include: A plug (410) includes a plug housing (411), a latch (412), and an input copper busbar (413). The latch (412) is disposed on one side of the plug housing (411), and the input copper busbar (413) is disposed on the side of the plug housing (411) opposite to the latch (412). The input copper busbar (413) partially passes through the plug housing (411) and is connected to the latch (412). A socket (420) is inserted and mated with the plug (410). The socket (420) includes a socket housing (421) and an output copper busbar (422). The socket housing (421) has a insertion groove (4211) for accommodating the claw (412). Part of the output copper busbar (422) is accommodated in the insertion groove (4211) and engaged with the claw (412), while the other part extends out of the socket housing (421). The connector (430) is connected to the output copper busbar (422).

2. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plug (410) also includes a rib (414), which is disposed on the claw (412); The socket housing (421) also has a limiting groove (4212) communicating with the plug groove (4211). When the claw (412) is inserted into the plug groove (4211), the protruding rib (414) is engaged in the limiting groove (4212).

3. The connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The jaw (412) includes: A first clamping part (4121) and a second clamping part (4122) are connected to each other, and a clamping groove (4123) is formed between the first clamping part (4121) and the second clamping part (4122); The connecting part (4124) is provided along the groove wall of the clamping groove (4123) and connected to the input copper bus (413). When the claw (412) is inserted into the insertion groove (4211), the connecting part (4124) is connected to the output copper bus (422) to electrically connect the input copper bus (413) and the output copper bus (422).

4. The connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The socket (420) also includes: A first ear plate (423) is connected to the outer wall of the socket housing (421), and the first ear plate (423) has a mounting hole (4231); The elastic part (424) is fitted into the first ear plate (423) and covers the mounting hole (4231); The fixing part (425) passes through the mounting hole (4231) and engages with the elastic part (424).

5. The connector according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first ear plate (423) also has a mounting groove (4232) communicating with the mounting hole (4231), and the elastic part (424) is engaged in the mounting groove (4232).

6. The connector according to claim 4, characterized in that, The elastic part (424) has a wavy structure.

7. The connector according to claim 6, characterized in that, The fixing part (425) is provided with a slot (4251) in the circumferential direction; The elastic part (424) has a snap-fit ​​part (4241) which can be snapped into the slot (4251).

8. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector (430) includes a first copper busbar (431) and a second copper busbar (432) connected to each other. The end of the first copper busbar (431) away from the second copper busbar (432) is connected to the output copper busbar (422), and the end of the second copper busbar (432) away from the first copper busbar (431) is connected to another socket (420).

9. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector (430) includes a third copper busbar (433) and a busbar (434) connected to each other. The end of the third copper busbar (433) away from the busbar (434) is connected to the socket (420), and the end of the busbar (434) away from the third copper busbar (433) is connected to the busbar module (500).

10. An energy storage system, characterized in that, include: Battery module (200); Converter (300); Busbar module (500); A plurality of connectors (400) as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein one end of a portion of the connectors (400) is connected to the battery module (200) and the other end is connected to the inverter (300); wherein one end of a portion of the connectors (400) is connected to the inverter (300) and the other end is connected to the combiner module (500).

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