restraining device

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application provides a restraining device, which can improve the use performance of the restraining device. The restraining device is applied to a battery monomer, and the restraining device comprises: a plurality of groove structures arranged at intervals along a first direction, wherein the groove structure comprises opposite first and second surfaces perpendicular to the first direction; a plurality of air bag structures, wherein the air bag structure comprises a first air bag structure and a second air bag structure, at least part of the first air bag structure and the second air bag structure is accommodated in the groove structure, one side of the first air bag structure facing the first surface is fixedly connected with the first surface, one side of the second air bag structure facing the second surface is fixedly connected with the second surface, the plurality of air bag structures are arranged in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of groove structures, a first accommodating cavity is formed between the first air bag structure, the second air bag structure and the groove structure, and at least part of the battery monomer is accommodated in the first accommodating cavity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and more specifically, to a restraint device. Background Technology

[0002] Energy conservation and emission reduction are key to the sustainable development of the automotive industry, and electric vehicles, due to their energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages, have become an important component of this sustainable development. For electric vehicles, battery technology is a crucial factor in their development.

[0003] In battery manufacturing, the formation process primarily involves the initial charge-discharge treatment of individual battery cells to activate them. Typically, a restraint device is used during the formation process to constrain the battery cells and control their thickness. Therefore, improving the performance of this restraint device has become a pressing technical problem in this field. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a restraint device applied to a single battery cell, which can improve the performance of the restraint device.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a restraint device applied to a battery cell. The restraint device includes: a plurality of groove structures spaced apart along a first direction, each groove structure including a first surface and a second surface perpendicular to and opposite to the first direction; a plurality of airbag structures, each airbag structure including a first airbag structure and a second airbag structure, at least a portion of the first airbag structure and the second airbag structure being accommodated in the groove structures, the side of the first airbag structure facing the first surface being fixedly connected to the first surface, and the side of the second airbag structure facing the second surface being fixedly connected to the second surface, with the plurality of airbag structures corresponding one-to-one with the plurality of groove structures; wherein the first airbag structure, the second airbag structure, and the groove structures enclose a first receiving cavity, and at least a portion of the battery cell is accommodated in the first receiving cavity.

[0006] In this embodiment, a plurality of airbag structures are provided in the restraint device. The airbag structure includes a first airbag structure and a second airbag structure. At least a portion of the first airbag structure and the second airbag structure are accommodated in the groove structure. The side of the first airbag structure facing the first surface is fixedly connected to the first surface, and the side of the second airbag structure facing the second surface is fixedly connected to the second surface. The first airbag structure, the second airbag structure, and the groove structure enclose a first receiving cavity, in which at least a portion of the battery cell is accommodated. The battery cell is restrained by the first airbag structure and the second airbag structure. Compared with the prior art, which directly places the battery cell in the groove structure, the deformation of the battery cell's shell can be reduced by the airbag structure, thereby improving the flatness of the outer surface of the battery cell's shell. At the same time, the risk of collision, drop, or short circuit to the battery cell during transportation by the restraint device is reduced, thereby improving the performance of the battery cell and the restraint device.

[0007] In some embodiments, the battery cell includes two first walls perpendicular to the first direction and opposite to each other, the two first walls being respectively attached to two surfaces of the first airbag structure and the second airbag structure facing the battery cell.

[0008] In this embodiment of the application, the battery cell includes two first walls perpendicular to the first direction and opposite to each other. By setting the two first walls as two surfaces attached to the first airbag structure and the second airbag structure facing the battery cell, the deformation of the battery cell's shell can be reduced by the airbag structure during the restraint of the battery cell, and the flatness of the outer surface of the first wall of the battery cell can be improved, so as to take into account both the performance of the battery cell and the performance of the restraint device.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first wall is the wall with the largest area of ​​the battery cell.

[0010] In this embodiment, by setting the first wall as the wall with the largest area of ​​the battery cell, at least a portion of the battery cell can be fixed in the first receiving cavity, thereby improving the restraint performance of the restraint device on the battery cell and effectively reducing the risk of collision, drop or short circuit to the battery cell during transportation, thus improving the performance of the battery cell.

[0011] In some embodiments, the airbag structure includes two second walls perpendicular to the second direction and disposed opposite to each other. The second walls are provided with a first through hole extending along the second direction. A second receiving cavity is formed inside the airbag structure. The second receiving cavity is connected to an external gas pipeline through the first through hole to control the expansion or contraction of the airbag structure. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0012] In this embodiment, the airbag structure is configured to include two second walls perpendicular to the second direction and arranged opposite to each other. Each second wall has a first through hole extending along the second direction, and a second receiving cavity is formed inside the airbag structure. The second receiving cavity is connected to an external gas pipeline through the first through hole, so as to control the expansion or contraction of the airbag structure through the first through hole and the external gas pipeline, so as to restrain and release the battery cell, thereby improving the performance of the restraint device.

[0013] In some embodiments, the restraint device further includes a vent screw, which is interference-fitted to the first through hole. The vent screw includes a second through hole extending along the second direction, and the second receiving cavity is connected to the external gas pipeline through the second through hole.

[0014] In this embodiment of the application, by setting the restraint device to include a vent screw, and the vent screw and the first through hole are interference-fitted, the vent screw includes a second through hole that extends along the second direction, that is, the expansion or contraction of the airbag structure is controlled by the second through hole and the external gas pipeline, so as to restrain and release the battery cell, thereby improving the performance of the restraint device and the assembly performance of the restraint device.

[0015] In some embodiments, the restraint device further includes a sealing member, at least a portion of which is disposed between the first through hole and the vent screw.

[0016] In this embodiment of the application, by further configuring the restraint device to include a sealing component, and at least a portion of the sealing component being disposed between the first through hole and the vent screw, the sealing performance of the connection area between the restraint device and the external gas pipeline is improved, the risk of gas leakage from the first through hole is reduced, and the performance of the restraint device is improved.

[0017] In some embodiments, the airbag structure further includes two third walls perpendicular to a third direction and disposed opposite to each other. Each third wall is provided with at least one protrusion protruding in a direction away from the second receiving cavity, and the protrusion extends along the second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0018] In this embodiment, the airbag structure further includes two third walls perpendicular to a third direction and arranged opposite to each other. At least one protrusion structure is provided on the third wall, protruding in a direction away from the second receiving cavity, and the protrusion structure extends along the second direction. The third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, so as to facilitate the expansion and contraction of the airbag structure, increase the deformation of the airbag structure in the first direction, and at the same time, it can be adapted to battery cells of different thicknesses, thereby improving the performance of the restraint device.

[0019] In some embodiments, the airbag structure includes a fourth wall near the battery cell, the fourth wall including a first layer, a second layer and a third layer, the second layer being connected between the first layer and the third layer, the first layer being closer to the battery cell than the second layer, wherein the first layer is made of silicone, the second layer is made of aramid fiber and the third layer is made of fluororubber.

[0020] In this embodiment, by setting the material of the first layer of the fourth wall of the airbag structure to silicone, the material of the second layer of the fourth wall to aramid fiber, and the material of the third layer of the fourth wall to fluororubber, the tensile strength and resistance to electrolyte corrosion of the airbag structure are balanced, thereby improving the performance of the restraint device.

[0021] In some embodiments, a pressure sensor is provided on the third surface of the fourth wall facing the battery cell, the pressure sensor being used to monitor the pressure distribution on the surface of the battery cell facing the airbag structure.

[0022] In this embodiment, a pressure sensor is provided on the third surface of the fourth wall facing the battery cell, and the pressure sensor is used to monitor the pressure distribution on the surface of the battery cell facing the airbag structure, so as to control the expansion and contraction of the airbag structure according to the pressure sensor, thereby improving the flatness of the outer surface of the battery cell.

[0023] In some embodiments, the third surface is provided with a plurality of pressure sensors, which are arranged at equal intervals.

[0024] In this embodiment, by providing multiple pressure sensors on the third surface at equal intervals, the pressure distribution on the surface of the battery cell facing the airbag structure can be effectively monitored, while facilitating the assembly of the pressure sensors and improving the assembly performance of the restraint device.

[0025] In some embodiments, the second receiving cavity includes a plurality of sub-receiving cavities, the plurality of sub-receiving cavities are arranged along the second direction, and any two adjacent sub-receiving cavities are interconnected.

[0026] In this embodiment of the application, by setting the second receiving cavity to include multiple sub-receiving cavities, and the multiple sub-receiving cavities are arranged along the second direction, and any two adjacent sub-receiving cavities are interconnected, the flatness of the outer surface of the battery cell can be further improved during the process of restraining the battery cell, thereby improving the performance of the restraint device.

[0027] In some embodiments, a plurality of the sub-receiving cavities are arranged along a third direction, and the plurality of the sub-receiving cavities include a first sub-receiving cavity and a second sub-receiving cavity adjacent to each other along the gravity direction. A fifth wall is formed between the first sub-receiving cavity and the second sub-receiving cavity, and the fifth wall is provided with a third through hole penetrating the fifth wall. The restraint device also includes a one-way valve disposed in the third through hole so that the first sub-receiving cavity and the second sub-receiving cavity can unidirectionally pass through each other in the opposite direction of the gravity direction.

[0028] In this embodiment, by arranging multiple sub-cavities along a third direction, the multiple sub-cavities include a first sub-cavity and a second sub-cavity adjacent to each other along the direction of gravity. A fifth wall is formed between the first sub-cavity and the second sub-cavity, and the fifth wall is provided with a third through hole penetrating the fifth wall. The restraint device also includes a one-way valve disposed in the third through hole, so that the first sub-cavity and the second sub-cavity are unidirectionally connected in the opposite direction of gravity. During the restraint of the battery cell, the restraint performance of the battery cell in the weak area above the airbag structure is improved, and the airbag structure is also facilitated to be quickly inflated, thereby improving the performance of the airbag structure. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments of this application 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 the drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery cell provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0033] Figure 4 This is an exploded structural diagram of a battery cell provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the restraint device provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the restraint device provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the restraint device provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a restraint device provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an airbag structure provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0039] Figure 10 This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional schematic diagram of an airbag structure provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0040] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an airbag structure provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0041] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the wall of an airbag structure provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0042] Figure 13 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a restraint device provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0043] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an airbag structure provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0044] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1-Vehicle; 10-Battery unit; 20-Battery cell; 30-Controller; 40-Motor; 11-Casing; 111-First part; 112-Second part; 112a-Base plate; 112b-Side plate; 21-Outer shell; 22-Electrode assembly; 211-Housing shell; 212-End cap; 222-Electrode tab; 222a-Positive electrode tab; 222b-Negative electrode tab; 213-Pressure relief mechanism; 214-Electrode terminal; 214a-First electrode terminal; 214b-Second electrode terminal; 23-Adapter component; 50-Receiving cavity; 60-Restraint device; 610-Groove structure; 611-First surface; 612-Second surface ; 620 - Airbag structure; 621 - First airbag structure; 622 - Second airbag structure; 630 - First receiving cavity; 215 - First wall; 640 - Second wall; 641 - First through hole; 650 - Second receiving cavity; 660 - Vent screw; 661 - Second through hole; 662 - Sealing component; 670 - Third wall; 671 - Protruding structure; 680 - Fourth wall; 681 - First layer; 682 - Second layer; 683 - Third layer; 684 - Third surface; 685 - Pressure sensor; 690 - Sub-receiving cavity; 691 - First sub-receiving cavity; 692 - Second sub-receiving cavity; 693 - Fifth wall; 694 - Third through hole; 695 - One-way valve;

[0045] The accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0046] 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 described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0047] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0048] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a mutually exclusive, independent, or alternative embodiment. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in this application can be combined with other embodiments.

[0049] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" 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 through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0050] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0051] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals denote the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of this application shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0052] In this application, "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), and similarly, "multiple groups" refers to two or more (including two), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two).

[0053] Unless otherwise specified, all embodiments and optional embodiments of this application can be combined to form new technical solutions.

[0054] Unless otherwise specified, all technical features and optional technical features of this application may be combined to form new technical solutions.

[0055] In this embodiment, the battery cell can be a secondary battery, which refers to a battery cell that can be recharged after discharge to activate the active materials and continue to be used. The battery device in this embodiment can also be called a battery.

[0056] The battery cell can be a lithium-ion battery, sodium-ion battery, sodium-lithium-ion battery, lithium metal battery, sodium metal battery, lithium-sulfur battery, magnesium-ion battery, nickel-metal hydride battery, nickel-cadmium battery, lead-acid battery, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to this.

[0057] A single battery cell typically includes an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. During the charging and discharging process of a single battery cell, active ions (such as lithium ions) repeatedly insert and extract between the positive and negative electrodes. The separator, positioned between the positive and negative electrodes, prevents short circuits while allowing active ions to pass through.

[0058] In some embodiments, the positive electrode may be a positive electrode sheet, which may include a positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode active material disposed on at least one surface of the positive electrode current collector.

[0059] The electrode assembly can be a wound structure, a stacked structure, or a hybrid structure of wound and stacked.

[0060] In some implementations, the electrode assembly is a wound structure. The positive and negative electrode sheets are wound into a wound structure.

[0061] In some implementations, the electrode assembly is a stacked structure.

[0062] As an example, multiple positive and negative electrodes can be set, and multiple positive and multiple negative electrodes can be stacked alternately.

[0063] As an example, multiple positive electrode plates can be provided, and negative electrode plates can be folded to form multiple stacked folded segments, with a positive electrode plate sandwiched between adjacent folded segments.

[0064] As an example, both the positive and negative electrode plates are folded to form multiple stacked folded segments.

[0065] As an example, multiple separators can be provided, each positioned between any adjacent positive or negative electrode plates.

[0066] As an example, the separators can be continuously arranged, either by folding or rolling between any adjacent positive or negative electrode plates.

[0067] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly can be cylindrical, flat, or polygonal, etc.

[0068] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly is provided with tabs that allow current to be drawn from the electrode assembly. The tabs include a positive tab and a negative tab.

[0069] In some embodiments, the battery cell may include a casing. The casing may be a steel casing, an aluminum casing, a plastic casing (such as a polypropylene casing), a composite metal casing (such as a copper-aluminum composite casing), or an aluminum-plastic film, etc. In some embodiments, the casing may be a sealed structure or a non-sealed structure. As an example, when the casing is a non-sealed structure, the casing serves to protect the electrode assembly, and a sealing bag is included between the casing and the electrode assembly to encapsulate the electrode assembly and electrolyte. Specifically, the sealing bag may be a bag-shaped insulating component or an aluminum-plastic film. When the casing is a sealed structure, it is used to encapsulate components such as the electrode assembly and electrolyte.

[0070] As an example, the battery cell can be a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, a pouch battery cell, or a battery cell of other shapes. Prismatic battery cells include prismatic battery cells, blade-shaped battery cells, and multi-prismatic batteries, such as hexagonal prismatic batteries. This application does not have any particular limitations.

[0071] In some embodiments, at least one electrode terminal is provided on the housing, and the electrode terminal is electrically connected to the tab. The electrode terminal can be directly connected to the tab, or it can be indirectly connected to the tab through a current collector. The electrode terminal can be provided on the end cap or on the housing.

[0072] In some embodiments, a pressure relief mechanism is provided on the casing. The pressure relief mechanism is used to release the internal gas of the battery cell.

[0073] As an example, the internal pressure or temperature of a battery cell is actuated to release the internal pressure or temperature when it reaches a predetermined threshold. When the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell reaches the predetermined threshold, the pressure relief mechanism is activated or a weak structure in the pressure relief mechanism is broken, thereby creating an opening or channel for the internal pressure or temperature to be released. The threshold design varies depending on the design requirements. The threshold may depend on the materials of one or more of the positive electrode, negative electrode, electrolyte, and separator in the battery cell.

[0074] As an example, the pressure relief mechanism can be integrally molded with the housing.

[0075] As an example, the pressure relief mechanism can also be separately installed and connected to the housing.

[0076] The term "actuation" as used in this application refers to the activation or actuation of the pressure relief mechanism to a certain state, thereby releasing the internal pressure and temperature of the battery cell. The actions of the pressure relief mechanism may include, but are not limited to: movement of components within the mechanism to form an exhaust channel, rupture, breakage, tearing, or opening of at least a portion of the mechanism, etc. When the pressure relief mechanism is activated, the high-temperature, high-pressure substances inside the battery cell are discharged as waste from the activated portion. This method allows for pressure and temperature relief of the battery cell under controllable pressure or temperature, thereby preventing potentially more serious accidents.

[0077] In some embodiments, when the housing is a non-sealed structure, the pressure relief mechanism can be configured as a through hole for venting gas inside the battery cell.

[0078] The emissions from battery cells mentioned in this application include, but are not limited to: electrolyte, dissolved or split positive and negative electrode plates, fragments of separators, high-temperature and high-pressure gases generated by the reaction, flames, etc.

[0079] The battery device mentioned in the embodiments of this application may include one or more battery cell assemblies for providing voltage and capacity. A battery cell assembly may include multiple battery cells, which are connected in series, parallel, or mixed connections via a busbar.

[0080] In some embodiments, a battery cell assembly is typically formed by arranging multiple battery cells.

[0081] As an example, a battery cell assembly can be a battery module, which is formed by arranging and fixing multiple battery cells together to form an independent module. As another example, a battery module can be formed by bundling multiple battery cells together with cable ties.

[0082] In some embodiments, the battery device may be a battery pack, which includes a housing and one or more individual battery cell assemblies housed within the housing.

[0083] As an example, the battery cell assembly can be a battery module, which can be housed in a housing by fixing the battery module in the housing.

[0084] As an example, battery cell assemblies can also be housed in a housing by directly fixing multiple battery cells to the housing.

[0085] As an example, the enclosure may include a first enclosure and a second enclosure. The first enclosure and the second enclosure are fastened together to form a closed space inside the enclosure to house the individual battery cells. Here, "closed" refers to covering or closing, and can be either sealed or unsealed. The first enclosure may be a top cover or a bottom plate.

[0086] As an example, the enclosure may include a top cover, a frame, and a bottom plate. The top cover and bottom plate are connected to the frame, creating an enclosed space inside the enclosure to house the individual battery cells.

[0087] In some embodiments, the housing may be part of the vehicle's chassis structure. For example, a portion of the housing may be at least a part of the vehicle's floor, or a portion of the housing may be at least a part of the vehicle's crossbeams and longitudinal beams.

[0088] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to various electrical devices that use individual battery cells, such as mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, electric vehicles, electric toys, power tools, vehicles, ships, and spacecraft. For example, spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft.

[0089] The battery device in this embodiment can also be referred to as an energy storage device. This energy storage device includes one or more battery clusters to increase the voltage and capacity of the energy storage device. A battery cluster may include multiple battery devices, which are connected in series via a busbar to increase the voltage of the energy storage device. When the energy storage device includes multiple battery clusters, the multiple battery clusters are connected in parallel to increase the capacity of the energy storage device.

[0090] Energy storage devices can be used in energy storage power stations, wind power generation systems, solar power generation systems, mobile power systems, or temporary power supply systems. Energy storage devices can store electrical energy as needed and output it when appropriate. For example, an energy storage device can store electrical energy during off-peak hours and provide power to relevant users or electrical devices during peak hours. The energy storage system provided in this application embodiment can be any power system that requires energy storage devices.

[0091] In some embodiments, the energy storage device is an energy storage container or an energy storage cabinet.

[0092] In some embodiments, the energy storage device may include a cabinet and one or more battery clusters housed within the cabinet.

[0093] In some embodiments, the energy storage device may include modules such as a thermal management module, a main control module, a central control module, a power distribution module, and a fire protection module.

[0094] As an example, the thermal management module may include a liquid cooling unit that supplies coolant to each battery device via piping to regulate the temperature of the individual battery cells.

[0095] As an example, the main control module can serve as the battery management unit for the battery cluster, used to monitor and manage the battery cluster. The main control module can monitor information such as the current, voltage, power, or temperature of the battery cluster. For instance, it can control the charging and discharging current and voltage of the battery cluster. The main control module includes auxiliary battery management units, integrated switches, and other modules.

[0096] As an example, the central control module can serve as the battery management unit for an energy storage device, used to monitor and manage the device. The central control module can monitor information such as the energy storage device's current, voltage, power, state of charge, or temperature. For instance, it can control the charging and discharging current and voltage of the energy storage device. As an example, the central control module includes modules such as an insulation monitoring module, a main battery management unit, and Ethernet and fiber optic conversion modules.

[0097] As an example, a fire protection system includes control panels, detectors, alarm devices, etc., used to detect, alarm, or extinguish fires in energy storage systems.

[0098] As an example, the power distribution unit can be used to distribute power to the power modules of the energy storage device.

[0099] Energy conservation and emission reduction are key to the sustainable development of the automotive industry, and electric vehicles, due to their energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages, have become an important component of this sustainable development. For electric vehicles, battery technology is a crucial factor in their development.

[0100] In battery manufacturing, the formation process primarily involves the initial charge-discharge treatment of individual battery cells to activate them. Typically, a restraint device is used during formation to control the cell thickness. Currently, existing technologies commonly employ layered pressure restraint trays to restrain the cells, requiring a restraint machine for both restraint and de-restraint. This process is costly and complex. Furthermore, for thinner cells, uneven stress on the cell surface during restraint can easily cause deformation, reducing the cell's performance. Therefore, improving the performance of this restraint device has become a pressing technical problem in this field.

[0101] Therefore, this application provides a restraint device comprising: a plurality of groove structures spaced apart along a first direction and a plurality of airbag structures. The groove structure includes a first surface and a second surface perpendicular to the first direction and opposite to each other. The airbag structure includes a first airbag structure and a second airbag structure. At least a portion of the first airbag structure and the second airbag structure are accommodated in the groove structure. The side of the first airbag structure facing the first surface is fixedly connected to the first surface. The side of the second airbag structure facing the second surface is fixedly connected to the second surface. The plurality of airbag structures and the plurality of groove structures are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. The first airbag structure, the second airbag structure and the groove structure enclose a first receiving cavity, and at least a portion of the battery cell is accommodated in the first receiving cavity. Thus, in this embodiment of the application, by providing multiple airbag structures in the restraint device, the airbag structure includes a first airbag structure and a second airbag structure. At least a portion of the first airbag structure and the second airbag structure are accommodated in the groove structure. The side of the first airbag structure facing the first surface is fixedly connected to the first surface, and the side of the second airbag structure facing the second surface is fixedly connected to the second surface. The first airbag structure, the second airbag structure, and the groove structure together form a first receiving cavity, in which at least a portion of the battery cell is accommodated. The battery cell is restrained by the first airbag structure and the second airbag structure. Compared with the prior art technology of directly placing the battery cell in the groove structure, the deformation of the battery cell's shell can be reduced by the airbag structure, thereby improving the flatness of the outer surface of the battery cell's shell. At the same time, the risk of collision, drop, or short circuit to the battery cell during transportation by the restraint device is reduced, thereby improving the performance of the battery cell and the restraint device.

[0102] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to various electrical devices that use battery devices.

[0103] Electrical devices can include vehicles, mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and power tools, etc. Vehicles can be gasoline-powered cars, natural gas-powered cars, or new energy vehicles; new energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. Spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc. Electric toys include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Power tools include metal cutting power tools, grinding power tools, assembly power tools, and railway power tools, such as electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, impact drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers, etc. This application does not impose any special limitations on the above-mentioned electrical devices.

[0104] It should be understood that the technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are not limited to the electrical devices described above, but can also be applied to all devices that use batteries. For the sake of simplicity, the following embodiments will be described in detail using a vehicle as an example of an electrical device.

[0105] For example, such as Figure 1 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a vehicle 1 according to one embodiment of this application. Vehicle 1 can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. A motor 40, a controller 30, and a battery device 10 can be installed inside vehicle 1. The controller 30 controls the battery device 10 to supply power to the motor 40. For example, the battery device 10 can be installed at the bottom, front, or rear of vehicle 1. The battery device 10 can be used to power vehicle 1. For example, the battery device 10 can serve as the operating power source for vehicle 1, for example, to meet the electrical system requirements of vehicle 1, such as for starting, navigation, and operation. In another embodiment of this application, the battery device 10 can not only serve as the operating power source for vehicle 1, but also as the driving power source for vehicle 1, replacing or partially replacing gasoline or natural gas to provide driving power for vehicle 1.

[0106] To meet different power demands, the battery device 10 in this embodiment may include at least one battery cell assembly, which comprises multiple battery cells. These multiple battery cells can be electrically connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof to form the battery device 10. A combination of series and parallel connections is used. The battery device 10 may also be referred to as a battery pack. For example, multiple battery cells can first be connected in series, parallel, or a combination to form a battery module, and then multiple battery modules can be connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof to form the battery device 10. That is, multiple battery cells can directly form the battery device 10, or they can first be assembled into battery modules, and then the battery modules can be assembled into the battery device 10.

[0107] For example, such as Figure 2 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a battery device 10 according to an embodiment of this application. The battery device 10 may include a plurality of battery cells 20. The battery device 10 may also include a housing 11 (or cover), the housing 11 having a hollow structure, and the plurality of battery cells 20 are housed within the housing 11. For example, the plurality of battery cells 20 may be connected in parallel, in series, or in a mixed configuration and then placed within the housing 11.

[0108] like Figure 2As shown, the housing 11 may include two parts, referred to here as the first part 111 and the second part 112, which are fastened together. The shapes of the first part 111 and the second part 112 can be determined according to the combined shape of multiple battery cells 20. Both the first part 111 and the second part 112 may have an opening. For example, both the first part 111 and the second part 112 may be hollow cuboids with only one open face. The openings of the first part 111 and the second part 112 are opposite to each other, and the first part 111 and the second part 112 are fastened together to form a housing 11 with a closed cavity. The housing may include a bottom plate 112a, side plates 112b, and beams. Multiple battery cells 20 are connected in parallel, series, or mixed configurations and placed inside the housing 11 formed by the fastening of the first part 111 and the second part 112.

[0109] Optionally, the battery device 10 may also include other structures, which will not be described in detail here. For example, the battery device 10 may also include a busbar component for realizing the electrical connection between multiple battery cells 20, such as parallel, series, or mixed connection. Specifically, the busbar component can realize the electrical connection between battery cells 20 by connecting the electrode terminals of the battery cells 20. Further, the busbar component can be fixed to the electrode terminals of the battery cells 20 by welding. The electrical energy of the multiple battery cells 20 can be further led out through the housing by a conductive mechanism. Optionally, the conductive mechanism may also be part of the busbar component.

[0110] The number of battery cells 20 can be set to any value depending on different power requirements. Multiple battery cells 20 can be connected in series, parallel, or mixed to achieve a larger capacity or power. Since each battery device 10 may include a large number of battery cells 20, for ease of installation, the battery cells 20 can be grouped, with each group of battery cells 20 forming a battery module. The number of battery cells 20 included in a battery module is unlimited and can be set according to requirements.

[0111] In this embodiment, the number of battery cells 20 can be set to any value according to different power requirements. Multiple battery cells 20 can be connected in series, parallel, or mixed connection to achieve a larger capacity or power. Since each battery device 10 may include a large number of battery cells 20, for ease of installation, the battery cells 20 can be grouped, with each group of battery cells 20 forming a battery module. The number of battery cells 20 included in a battery module is not limited and can be set according to requirements. The battery device 10 may include multiple battery modules, which can be connected in series, parallel, or mixed connection.

[0112] Figure 3This diagram shows an exploded view of the battery cell 20 provided in one embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 An exploded structural diagram of a battery cell 20 according to another embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the battery cell 20 in this embodiment may include: a housing 21 and an electrode assembly 22. The housing 21 has a closed receiving cavity 50, and the electrode assembly 22 is placed in the receiving cavity 50 within the housing 21. The housing 21 may include a shell 211 and an end cap 212. The shell 211 is a hollow structure with at least one opening; the end cap 212 is used to fasten with the shell 211 to form the housing 21 with the closed receiving cavity 50.

[0113] In some embodiments, the end cap 212 may be a plate-like structure used to cover the opening of the housing 211. In other embodiments, the end cap 212 has a similar structure to the housing 211, that is, both the housing 211 and the end cap 212 are hollow structures with one opening, and the two openings are joined together to form an outer shell 21 with a closed accommodating space.

[0114] It should be understood that if the end cap 212 is a plate-like structure, the shell 211 can be a hollow structure with an opening at one or more ends. For example, if the shell 211 is a hollow structure with an opening at one end, the end cap 212 can be set as one; if the shell 211 is a hollow structure with openings at opposite ends, the end cap 212 can be set as two, with the two end caps 212 respectively covering the openings at both ends of the shell 211.

[0115] The outer shell 21 can be of various shapes, such as a cylinder, a cuboid, or other polyhedrons. For example, ... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in the embodiments of this application, the description mainly takes the outer shell 21 as a cuboid structure.

[0116] It should be understood that the end cap 212 in this embodiment is used to cooperate with the housing 211 to isolate the internal environment of the battery cell 20 from the external environment. The shape of the end cap 212 can be adapted to the shape of the housing 211, such as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the shell 211 has a cuboid structure, and the end cap 212 has a rectangular plate structure that is adapted to the shell 211.

[0117] The material of the housing 211 in this embodiment may include one or more materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, aluminum alloy, etc. The material of the end cap 212 may also be one or more materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, aluminum alloy, etc. The material of the end cap 212 may be the same as or different from that of the housing 211; the materials of the different walls of the housing 211 may also be the same or different.

[0118] The end cap 212 in this embodiment can be any wall of the outer shell 21. For example, the end cap 212 can be the wall with the largest area among the multiple walls included in the outer shell 21, or the wall with the smallest area, or it can be other walls. This embodiment is not limited to this. Alternatively, the end cap 212 can also be other structures. For example, the end cap 212 can also be a groove with an opening to cover the opening of the housing 211. This embodiment is not limited to this.

[0119] It should be understood that the battery cell 20 also includes electrode terminals 214. In this embodiment, the electrode terminals 214 are used for electrical connection with the electrode assembly 22 inside the battery cell 20 to output the electrical energy of the battery cell 20. Figures 3 to 4 As shown, the battery cell 20 may include at least two electrode terminals 214, which may include at least one first electrode terminal 214a and at least one second electrode terminal 214b. Exemplarily, if the first electrode terminal 214a is a positive electrode terminal, it is used for electrical connection to the positive electrode tab 222a of the electrode assembly 22; if the second electrode terminal 214b is a negative electrode terminal, it is used for electrical connection to the negative electrode tab 222b of the electrode assembly 22. The first electrode terminal 214a and the positive electrode tab 222a may be directly connected or indirectly connected, as may the negative electrode terminal 214b and the negative electrode tab 222b. Exemplarily, the first electrode terminal 214a may be electrically connected to the positive electrode tab 222a via an adapter 23, and the second electrode terminal 214b may be electrically connected to the negative electrode tab 222b via an adapter 23. It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the positive electrode tab 222a and the negative electrode tab 222b can be collectively referred to as electrode tab 222.

[0120] In this embodiment, the wall of the housing 211 and the wall of the end cap 212 are both referred to as the wall of the battery cell 20. Figure 3 and Figure 4The rectangular battery cell 20 shown has a housing 211 with a bottom wall and four side walls. The housing 211 is shaped according to the combination of one or more electrode assemblies 22. For example, the housing 211 can be a hollow cuboid, cube, or cylinder, and one face of the housing 211 has an opening to allow one or more electrode assemblies 22 to be placed inside. For example, when the housing 211 is a hollow cuboid or cube, one plane of the housing 211 is an open face, meaning that this plane has no wall, allowing communication between the inside and outside of the housing 211. When the housing 211 is a hollow cylinder, the end face of the housing 211 is an open face, meaning that this end face has no wall, allowing communication between the inside and outside of the housing 211. An end cap 212 covers the opening and connects to the housing 211 to form a closed cavity for placing the electrode assemblies 22. The housing 211 is filled with an electrolyte, such as an electrolyte solution.

[0121] In this battery cell 20, the electrode assembly 22 is the component in which the electrochemical reaction occurs. Depending on actual usage requirements, the electrode assembly 22 within the casing 211 can be one or multiple. For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, two electrode assemblies 22 are provided inside the battery cell 20. The electrode assembly 22 can be a cylinder, a cuboid, etc. If the electrode assembly 22 is a cylindrical structure, the housing 211 can also be a cylindrical structure. If the electrode assembly 22 is a cuboid structure, the housing 211 can also be a cuboid structure.

[0122] In this battery cell 20, the electrode assembly 22 is the component in which the electrochemical reaction occurs. Depending on actual usage requirements, the electrode assembly 22 within the casing 211 can be one or multiple. For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, two electrode assemblies 22 are disposed within the battery cell 20. The electrode assembly 22 can be a cylinder, a cuboid, etc. If the electrode assembly 22 is a cylindrical structure, the housing 211 can also be a cylindrical structure; if the electrode assembly 22 is a cuboid structure, the housing 211 can also be a cuboid structure. In this embodiment, the material of the housing 211 may include the following materials: copper, iron, aluminum, steel, aluminum alloy, etc.

[0123] A pressure relief mechanism 213 may also be provided on the battery cell 20. The pressure relief mechanism 213 is actuated to release the internal pressure or temperature when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell 20 reaches a threshold.

[0124] The pressure relief mechanism 213 can be any of the possible pressure relief mechanisms 213. For example, the pressure relief mechanism 213 can be a temperature-sensitive pressure relief mechanism, which is configured to melt when the internal temperature of the battery cell 20 with the pressure relief mechanism 213 reaches a threshold; and / or, the pressure relief mechanism 213 can be a pressure-sensitive pressure relief mechanism, which is configured to rupture when the internal gas pressure of the battery cell 20 with the pressure relief mechanism 213 reaches a threshold.

[0125] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the restraint device 60 provided in one embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the restraint device 60 provided in another embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the restraint device 60 provided in another embodiment of this application is shown.

[0126] In some implementations, such as Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the restraint device 60 is applied to a battery cell 20. The restraint device 60 includes: a plurality of groove structures 610 spaced apart along a first direction and a plurality of airbag structures 620. The groove structure 610 includes a first surface 611 and a second surface 612 perpendicular to the first direction and opposite to each other. The airbag structure 620 includes a first airbag structure 621 and a second airbag structure 622. At least a portion of the first airbag structure 621 and the second airbag structure 622 are accommodated in the groove structure 610. The side of the first surface 611 facing the second surface 611 is fixedly connected to the first surface 611, and the side of the second airbag structure 622 facing the second surface 612 is fixedly connected to the second surface 612. A plurality of airbag structures 620 and a plurality of groove structures 610 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. The first airbag structure 621, the second airbag structure 622 and the groove structure 610 surround and form a first receiving cavity 630, and at least a portion of the battery cell 20 is received in the first receiving cavity 630.

[0127] It should be understood that, for ease of description, three directions are defined here: a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction. The first direction may be the length direction of the restraint device 60. For example, the first direction may be... Figures 5 to 7 The direction X shown in the diagram, the second direction can be the width direction of the restraint device 60. For example, the second direction can be... Figures 5 to 7 The direction Y shown in the figure can be the height direction of the restraint device 60. For example, the third direction can be... Figures 5 to 7 The direction Z is shown in the figure, and this direction Z is parallel to the direction of gravity.

[0128] It should also be understood that the restraint device 60 in this embodiment includes a plurality of groove structures 610 spaced apart along a first direction. The shape of the groove structure 610 can be set according to actual needs. For example, on a plane perpendicular to the height direction of the restraint device 60, the shape of the groove structure 610 can be set as square or rectangular. It should also be understood that the distance between the plurality of groove structures 610 spaced apart along the first direction can be set according to actual needs. For example, the plurality of groove structures 610 can be equally spaced along the first direction.

[0129] It should also be understood that the airbag structure 620 in this embodiment includes a first airbag structure 621 and a second airbag structure 622, with at least a portion of the first airbag structure 621 and at least a portion of the second airbag structure 622 also accommodated in the groove structure 610. Specifically, the surface of the first airbag structure 621 facing the first surface 611 of the groove structure 610 is fixedly connected to the first surface 611, for example, by bolting or bonding. The surface of the second airbag structure 622 facing the second surface 612 of the groove structure 610 is fixedly connected to the second surface 612, for example, by bolting or bonding.

[0130] It should also be understood that the first airbag structure 621 and the second airbag structure 622 in the embodiments of this application may have a receiving cavity inside, which may be connected to an external gas pipeline, and the side of the external gas pipeline away from the receiving cavity may be connected to a circulation device so as to control the expansion or contraction of the first airbag structure 621 and the second airbag structure 622 through the circulation device.

[0131] It should also be understood that the first airbag structure 621, the second airbag structure 622, and the groove structure 610 can be enclosed to form a first receiving cavity 630, which may be a receiving cavity with an opening at one end. At least a portion of the battery cell 20 is received within the first receiving cavity 630. For example, as... Figure 7 As shown, the entire battery cell 20 is housed in the first receiving cavity 630.

[0132] In this embodiment, the restraint device 60 includes multiple airbag structures 620, each airbag structure 620 comprising a first airbag structure 621 and a second airbag structure 622. At least a portion of the first airbag structure 621 and the second airbag structure 622 are accommodated in the groove structure 610. The side of the first airbag structure 621 facing the first surface 611 is fixedly connected to the first surface 611, and the side of the second airbag structure 622 facing the second surface 612 is fixedly connected to the second surface 612. The first airbag structure 621, the second airbag structure 622, and the groove structure 610 together form a first receiving cavity. 630, at least a portion of the battery cell 20 is accommodated in the first receiving cavity 630, so that the battery cell 20 is restrained by the first airbag structure 621 and the second airbag structure 622. Compared with the prior art technology of directly placing the battery cell 20 in the groove structure 610, the deformation of the outer shell 21 of the battery cell 20 can be reduced by the airbag structure 620, thereby improving the flatness of the outer surface of the outer shell 21 of the battery cell 20. At the same time, the risk of collision, drop or short circuit of the battery cell 20 by the restraint device 60 during transportation is reduced, thereby improving the performance of the battery cell 20 and the restraint device 60.

[0133] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the battery cell 20 includes two first walls 215 perpendicular to the first direction and opposite to each other. The two first walls 215 are respectively attached to two surfaces of the first airbag structure 621 and the second airbag structure 622 facing the side of the battery cell 20.

[0134] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the two first walls 215 can be respectively attached to the two surfaces of the first airbag structure 621 and the second airbag structure 622 facing the battery cell 20. This can mean that the surface of the first wall 215 facing the first airbag structure 621 can be bonded to the first airbag structure 621, or the surface of the first wall 215 facing the second airbag structure 622 facing the battery cell 20 can be bonded to the second airbag structure 622.

[0135] In this embodiment, the battery cell 20 includes two first walls 215 perpendicular to the first direction and opposite to each other. By setting the two first walls 215 as two surfaces attached to the first airbag structure 621 and the second airbag structure 622 facing the battery cell 20, during the restraint process of the restraint device 60 on the battery cell 20, the deformation of the outer shell 21 of the battery cell 20 can be reduced by the airbag structure 620, and the flatness of the outer surface of the first wall 215 of the battery cell 20 can be improved, so as to balance the performance of the battery cell 20 and the performance of the restraint device 60.

[0136] In some embodiments, the first wall 215 is the wall with the largest area of ​​the battery cell 20. Thus, in this embodiment, by setting the first wall 215 as the wall with the largest area of ​​the battery cell 20, at least a portion of the battery cell 20 is fixed to the first receiving cavity 630, improving the restraint performance of the restraint device 60 on the battery cell 20, effectively reducing the risk of collision, drop, or short circuit to the battery cell 20 by the restraint device 60 during transportation, thereby improving the performance of the battery cell 20.

[0137] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the restraint device 60 provided in another embodiment of this application is shown.

[0138] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, the airbag structure 620 includes two second walls 640 perpendicular to the second direction and arranged opposite to each other. The second wall 640 is provided with a first through hole 641 extending along the second direction. The airbag structure 620 has a second receiving cavity 650 inside. The second receiving cavity 650 is connected to an external gas pipeline through the first through hole 641 to control the expansion or contraction of the airbag structure 620. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0139] It should be understood that the shape of the first through hole 641 provided on the second wall 640 in the embodiments of this application can be set according to actual needs. For example, on a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction of the second wall 640, or on a plane perpendicular to the first direction, the shape of the first through hole 641 can be set as a circle, a square, or a polygon, etc.

[0140] It should also be understood that the second wall 640 may be provided with a plurality of the first through holes 641, and the plurality of the first through holes 641 may be provided at equal intervals perpendicular to the first direction.

[0141] In this embodiment, the airbag structure 620 is configured to include two second walls 640 perpendicular to the second direction and arranged opposite to each other. Each second wall 640 is provided with a first through hole 641 extending along the second direction. A second receiving cavity 650 is formed inside the airbag structure 620. The second receiving cavity 650 is connected to an external gas pipeline through the first through hole 641, so as to control the expansion or contraction of the airbag structure 620 through the first through hole 641 and the external gas pipeline, so as to restrain and release the battery cell 20, thereby improving the performance of the restraint device 60.

[0142] Figure 9 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of an airbag structure 620 provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 10 This diagram shows a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of an airbag structure 620 provided in one embodiment of this application. Exemplarily, Figure 10 Can be Figure 9 The diagram shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the airbag structure 620.

[0143] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the restraint device 60 also includes a vent screw 660, which is interference-fitted with the first through hole 641. The vent screw 660 includes a second through hole 661 extending along the second direction, and the second receiving cavity 650 is connected to the external gas pipeline through the second through hole 661.

[0144] It should be understood that the shape of the second through hole 661 included in the vent screw 660 can be set according to actual needs. For example, on a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction of the second wall 640, or on a plane perpendicular to the first direction, the shape of the second through hole 661 can be set as a circle, a square, or a polygon, etc.

[0145] It should also be understood that the vent screw 660 may be interference-fitted to the first through hole 641 to reduce the risk of gas leakage within the second receiving cavity 650 of the airbag structure 620.

[0146] In this embodiment, the restraint device 60 is configured to include a vent screw 660, and the vent screw 660 is interference-fitted with the first through hole 641. The vent screw 660 includes a second through hole 661 extending along the second direction. That is, the expansion or contraction of the airbag structure 620 is controlled by the second through hole 661 and the external gas pipeline to restrain and release the battery cell 20, thereby improving the performance of the restraint device 60 and the assembly performance of the restraint device 60.

[0147] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the restraint device 60 also includes a sealing member 662, at least a portion of which is disposed between the first through hole 641 and the vent screw 660.

[0148] It should be understood that at least a portion of the sealing member 662 facing the inner wall of the first through hole 640 in this embodiment of the application may abut against the inner wall of the first through hole 641, and the side of the sealing member 662 away from the inner wall of the first through hole 641 abuts against the outer surface of the vent screw 660. Exemplarily, the sealing member 662 may be configured as annular.

[0149] It should also be understood that the material of the sealing component 662 in the embodiments of this application may be set as nitrile rubber, fluororubber, silicone rubber or polyurethane rubber to improve the sealing performance between the first through hole 641 and the vent screw 660.

[0150] In this embodiment of the application, by further configuring the restraint device 60 to include a sealing component 662, and at least a portion of the sealing component 662 being disposed between the first through hole 641 and the vent screw 660, the sealing performance of the connection area between the restraint device 60 and the external gas pipeline is improved, the risk of gas leakage from the first through hole 641 is reduced, and the performance of the restraint device 60 is improved.

[0151] Figure 11 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of an airbag structure 620 provided in an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0152] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11 As shown, the airbag structure 620 also includes two third walls 670 that are perpendicular to a third direction and arranged opposite to each other. Each third wall 670 is provided with at least one protruding structure 671 that protrudes in a direction away from the second receiving cavity 650, and the protruding structure 671 extends along the first direction. The third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0153] It should be understood that the third wall 670 of the airbag structure 620 in the embodiments of this application may be provided with at least one protruding structure 671 protruding in a direction away from the second receiving cavity 650. When the third wall 670 is provided with multiple protruding structures 671, the multiple protruding structures 671 may be arranged along the second direction, and the multiple protruding structures may be spaced apart or continuously arranged along the second direction.

[0154] It should also be understood that the protrusion structure 671 may extend along the first direction. Specifically, the protrusion structure 671 may include a plurality of sub-protrusion structures, which are spaced apart along the first direction. For example, the plurality of sub-protrusion structures may be spaced equally apart along the first direction.

[0155] It should also be understood that the shape of the protrusion structure 671 in the cross-section perpendicular to the first direction can be set according to actual needs. For example, the shape of the protrusion structure 671 can be set as follows: Figure 11 The conical structure shown protruding away from the second receiving cavity 650 is designed to increase the deformation of the airbag structure 620 during expansion and contraction.

[0156] In this embodiment, the airbag structure 620 further includes two third walls 670 perpendicular to a third direction and arranged opposite to each other. At least one protrusion 671 protruding in a direction away from the second receiving cavity 650 is provided on the third wall 670, and the protrusion 671 extends along the first direction. The third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, so as to facilitate the expansion and contraction of the airbag structure 620, improve the deformation of the airbag structure 620 in the first direction, and at the same time, it can be adapted to battery cells 20 of different thicknesses, thereby improving the performance of the restraint device 60.

[0157] Figure 12 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the wall of an airbag structure 620 provided in one embodiment of this application is shown.

[0158] In some embodiments, such as Figure 12 As shown, the airbag structure 620 includes a fourth wall 680 near the battery cell 20. The fourth wall 680 includes a first layer 681, a second layer 682, and a third layer 683. The second layer 682 is connected between the first layer 681 and the third layer 683. The first layer 681 is closer to the battery cell 20 than the second layer 682. The material of the first layer 681 is silicone, the material of the second layer 682 is aramid fiber, and the material of the third layer 683 is fluororubber.

[0159] It should be understood that the fourth wall 680 in the embodiments of this application may include a first layer 681, a second layer 682 and a third layer 683, which can be formed by pressing the first layer 681, the second layer 682 and the third layer 683 together.

[0160] It should also be understood that by setting the material of the first layer 681 to silicone, the tensile strength of the airbag structure 620 is increased during the expansion or contraction of the airbag structure 620, so as to facilitate the deformation and contraction of the airbag structure 620.

[0161] In this embodiment of the application, by setting the material of the first layer 681 of the fourth wall 680 of the airbag structure 620 to silicone, the material of the second layer 682 of the fourth wall 680 to aramid fiber, and the material of the third layer 683 of the fourth wall 680 to fluororubber, the tensile strength and resistance to electrolyte corrosion of the airbag structure 620 are taken into account, thereby improving the performance of the restraint device 60.

[0162] In some embodiments, such as Figure 12 As shown, a pressure sensor 685 is provided on the third surface 684 of the fourth wall 680 facing the battery cell 20. The pressure sensor 685 is used to monitor the pressure distribution on the surface of the battery cell 20 facing the airbag structure 620.

[0163] It should be understood that the pressure sensor 685 may be fixedly connected to the third surface 684 of the fourth wall 680 facing the battery cell 20. For example, the pressure sensor 685 may be bonded to the third surface 684.

[0164] It should also be understood that the pressure sensor 685 in the embodiments of this application may be a flexible thin-film pressure sensor, so as to be attached to the third surface 684, while reducing the impact on the flatness of the outer surface of the battery cell 20.

[0165] In this embodiment of the application, a pressure sensor 685 is provided on the third surface 684 of the fourth wall 680 facing the battery cell 20. The pressure sensor 685 is used to monitor the pressure distribution on the surface of the battery cell 20 facing the airbag structure 620, so as to control the expansion and contraction of the airbag structure 620 according to the pressure sensor 685, thereby improving the flatness of the outer surface of the battery cell 20.

[0166] In some embodiments, the third surface 684 is provided with a plurality of pressure sensors 685, which are arranged at equal intervals.

[0167] For example, the distance between any two adjacent pressure sensors 685 in the plurality of pressure sensors 685 can be set to 5 mm.

[0168] In this embodiment of the application, by providing a plurality of pressure sensors 685 on the third surface and the plurality of pressure sensors 685 being equally spaced, the pressure distribution on the surface of the battery cell 20 facing the airbag structure 620 can be effectively monitored by the pressure sensors 685, while facilitating the assembly of the pressure sensors 685, thereby improving the assembly performance of the restraint device 60.

[0169] Figure 13A partial structural schematic diagram of a restraint device 60 provided in one embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 14 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of an airbag structure 620 provided in an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0170] In some embodiments, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the second receiving cavity 650 includes a plurality of sub-receiving cavities 690, which are arranged along the second direction, and any two adjacent sub-receiving cavities 690 are interconnected.

[0171] It should be understood that the number of sub-cavities 690 provided within the second receiving cavity 650 in this embodiment can be set according to actual needs. For example, such as... Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the second receiving cavity 650 can be provided with 6 sub-receiving cavities 690, with two sub-receiving cavities 690 provided in the first direction and three sub-receiving cavities 690 provided in the third direction.

[0172] In this embodiment of the application, by configuring the second receiving cavity 650 to include a plurality of sub-receiving cavities 690, and the plurality of sub-receiving cavities 690 are arranged along the second direction, and any two adjacent sub-receiving cavities 690 are interconnected, the flatness of the outer surface of the battery cell 20 is further improved during the process of restraining the battery cell 20, thereby improving the performance of the restraint device 60.

[0173] In some embodiments, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, a plurality of sub-receiving cavities 690 are arranged along a third direction. The plurality of sub-receiving cavities 690 include a first sub-receiving cavity 691 and a second sub-receiving cavity 692 adjacent to each other along the gravity direction. A fifth wall 693 is formed between the first sub-receiving cavity 691 and the second sub-receiving cavity 692. The fifth wall 693 is provided with a third through hole 694 penetrating the fifth wall 693. The restraint device also includes a one-way valve 695, which is disposed in the third through hole 694 so that the first sub-receiving cavity 691 and the second sub-receiving cavity 692 are unidirectionally connected in the opposite direction of the gravity direction.

[0174] It should be understood that the shape of the third through hole 694 of the fifth wall 693 in this embodiment can be set according to actual needs. For example, on a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction of the fifth wall 693, the shape of the third through hole 694 can be set as a circle, a square, or a polygon. In some embodiments, the shape of the third through hole 694 can be matched with the shape of the one-way valve 695.

[0175] It should also be understood that during the process of accommodating at least a portion of the battery cell 20 in the first receiving cavity 630, since one end of the groove structure 610 has an opening, i.e., one end of the first receiving cavity 630 has an opening, there is a weak area at the end of the airbag structure 620 in the opposite direction of gravity. That is, the restraining performance of the battery cell 20 in this weak area is weak, reducing the restraining performance of the restraining device 60. By providing a one-way valve 695 on the fifth wall 693, gas can flow in the opposite direction of gravity during the inflation of the airbag structure 620. For example, when the second sub-receiving cavity 692 is inflated, the gas in the second sub-receiving cavity 692 can flow into the first sub-receiving cavity 691 to improve the restraining performance of the end of the airbag structure 620 in the opposite direction of gravity.

[0176] In this embodiment, by arranging the multiple sub-cavities 690 along a third direction, the multiple sub-cavities 690 include a first sub-cavity 691 and a second sub-cavity 692 adjacent to each other along the direction of gravity. A fifth wall 693 is formed between the first sub-cavity 691 and the second sub-cavity 692, and the fifth wall 693 is provided with a third through hole 694 penetrating the fifth wall 693. The restraint device 60 also includes a one-way valve 695, which is disposed in the third through hole 694, so that the first sub-cavity 691 and the second sub-cavity 692 are unidirectionally connected in the opposite direction of gravity. During the restraint of the battery cell 20, the restraint performance of the weak area above the airbag structure 620 on the battery cell 20 is improved, and the airbag structure 620 is quickly inflated to improve the performance of the airbag structure 620.

[0177] According to some embodiments of this application, see Figures 5 to 11This application provides a restraint device 60 applied to a battery cell 20. The restraint device 60 includes a plurality of groove structures 610 spaced apart along a first direction and a plurality of airbag structures 620. Each groove structure 610 includes a first surface 611 and a second surface 612 perpendicular to and opposite to the first direction. Each airbag structure 620 includes a first airbag structure 621 and a second airbag structure 622, at least a portion of which is accommodated within the groove structure 610. The side of the first airbag structure 621 facing the first surface 611 is fixedly connected to the first surface 611, and the side of the second airbag structure 622 facing the second surface 612 is fixedly connected to the second surface 612. A plurality of airbag structures 620 are correspondingly arranged with a plurality of groove structures 610. The first airbag structure 621, the second airbag structure 622, and the groove structures 610 together form a first receiving cavity 630, in which at least a portion of the battery cell 20 is received. The battery cell 20 includes two first walls 215 perpendicular to the first direction and opposite to each other. The two first walls 215 are respectively attached to the two surfaces of the first airbag structure 621 and the second airbag structure 622 facing the battery cell 20. The first wall 215 is the wall with the largest area of ​​the battery cell 20. The airbag structure 620 includes two second walls 640 perpendicular to and opposite to a second direction. Each second wall 640 has a first through hole 641 extending along the second direction. A second receiving cavity 650 is formed inside the airbag structure 620, and the second receiving cavity 650 communicates with an external gas pipeline through the first through hole 641 to control the expansion or contraction of the airbag structure 620. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. The airbag structure 620 also includes two third walls 670 perpendicular to and opposite to a third direction. Each third wall 670 has at least one protruding structure 671 extending away from the second receiving cavity 650, and the protruding structure 671 extends along the second direction. The third direction is perpendicular to both the first and second directions.

[0178] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A restraint device, characterized in that, Applied to a single battery cell (20), the restraint device includes: Multiple groove structures (610) are spaced apart along a first direction, each groove structure (610) including a first surface (611) and a second surface (612) perpendicular to and opposite to the first direction; Multiple airbag structures (620) are provided, each airbag structure (620) including a first airbag structure (621) and a second airbag structure (622). At least a portion of the first airbag structure (621) and the second airbag structure (622) are accommodated in the groove structure (610). The side of the first airbag structure (621) facing the first surface (611) is fixedly connected to the first surface (611), and the side of the second airbag structure (622) facing the second surface (612) is fixedly connected to the second surface (612). The multiple airbag structures (620) are provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the multiple groove structures (610). The first airbag structure (621), the second airbag structure (622), and the groove structure (610) are arranged to form a first receiving cavity (630), and at least a portion of the battery cell (20) is received in the first receiving cavity (630).

2. The restraint device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The battery cell (20) includes two first walls (215) perpendicular to the first direction and opposite to each other. The two first walls (215) are respectively attached to two surfaces of the first airbag structure (621) and the second airbag structure (622) facing the side of the battery cell (20).

3. The restraint device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first wall (215) is the wall with the largest area of ​​the battery cell (20).

4. The restraint device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The airbag structure (620) includes two second walls (640) perpendicular to the second direction and arranged opposite to each other. The second wall (640) is provided with a first through hole (641) extending along the second direction. A second receiving cavity (650) is formed inside the airbag structure (620). The second receiving cavity (650) is connected to an external gas pipeline through the first through hole (641) to control the expansion or contraction of the airbag structure (620). The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

5. The restraint device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The restraint device further includes a vent screw (660), which is interference-fitted with the first through hole (641). The vent screw (660) includes a second through hole (661) extending along the second direction. The second receiving cavity (650) is connected to the external gas pipeline through the second through hole (661).

6. The restraint device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The restraint device further includes a sealing member (662), at least a portion of which is disposed between the first through hole (641) and the vent screw (660).

7. The restraint device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The airbag structure (620) further includes two third walls (670) perpendicular to a third direction and arranged opposite to each other. The third wall (670) is provided with at least one protrusion (671) protruding in a direction away from the second receiving cavity (650), and the protrusion (671) extends along the second direction. The third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

8. The restraint device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The airbag structure (620) includes a fourth wall (680) near the battery cell (20). The fourth wall (680) includes a first layer (681), a second layer (682), and a third layer (683). The second layer (682) connects the first layer (681) and the third layer (683). The first layer (681) is closer to the battery cell (20) than the second layer (682). The material of the first layer (681) is silicone, the material of the second layer (682) is aramid fiber, and the material of the third layer (683) is fluororubber.

9. The restraint device according to claim 8, characterized in that, A pressure sensor (685) is provided on the third surface (684) of the fourth wall (680) facing the battery cell (20), the pressure sensor (685) being used to monitor the pressure distribution on the surface of the battery cell (20) facing the airbag structure (620).

10. The restraint device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The third surface (684) is provided with a plurality of pressure sensors (685), which are arranged at equal intervals.

11. The restraint device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second receiving cavity (650) includes a plurality of sub-receiving cavities (690), which are arranged along the second direction, and any two adjacent sub-receiving cavities (690) are interconnected.

12. The restraint device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The plurality of sub-cavities (690) are arranged along a third direction. The plurality of sub-cavities (690) include a first sub-cavity (691) and a second sub-cavity (692) adjacent to each other along the direction of gravity. A fifth wall (693) is formed between the first sub-cavity (691) and the second sub-cavity (692). The fifth wall (693) is provided with a third through hole (694) penetrating the fifth wall (693). The restraint device further includes a one-way valve (695) disposed in the third through hole (694) to allow the first sub-accommodating cavity (691) and the second sub-accommodating cavity (692) to unidirectionally flow in the opposite direction of the gravity direction.

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