Battery device and electric appliance

Abstract

The application discloses a battery device and an electric device. The battery device comprises a battery cell and a protection component. The battery cell comprises a shell and an end cover. The shell is provided with an opening at least at one end in a first direction, and the end cover covers the opening of the shell. The shell has two opposite first wall surfaces in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The area of the first wall surface is larger than that of other wall surfaces of the shell. The protection component comprises a first component and at least two second components. The at least two second components are connected to the same first component and are arranged in a spaced manner along the second direction. At least one battery cell is arranged between two adjacent second components. The second component comprises a first limiting part and a second limiting part. The first limiting part and the second limiting part are arranged corresponding to the first wall surface and are arranged at two ends of the shell in the first direction respectively. The technical scheme can improve the reliability of the battery device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a battery device and an electrical appliance. Background Technology

[0002] As the energy density of battery devices increases, the expansion force of the batteries also increases. This expansion force can cause individual battery cells in vulnerable areas to fail, affecting the reliability of the battery device. Utility Model Content

[0003] The main objective of this application is to provide a battery device and an electrical appliance designed to improve the reliability of the battery device.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the battery device proposed in this application includes: A battery cell includes a housing and an end cap. The housing has an opening at at least one end in a first direction, and the end cap closes to the opening of the housing. The housing has two opposing first walls in a second direction, the second direction intersecting the first direction, and the area of ​​the first walls is larger than the area of ​​the other walls of the housing. The protective component includes a first component and at least two second components, the at least two second components being connected to the same first component and arranged at intervals along a second direction, with at least one battery cell between two adjacent second components; The second component includes a first limiting part and a second limiting part, which are disposed corresponding to the first wall surface and respectively located at both ends of the housing in the first direction.

[0005] In the battery device of this application, when a battery cell expands along a second direction, that is, in the direction intersecting the first wall surface of the battery cell's casing, the first and second limiting parts of the second component in the protective member are positioned corresponding to the first wall surface, and adjacent second components are connected and restrained by the first component in the protective member. At this time, the first and second limiting parts can restrain and limit the corners at both ends of the battery cell's casing in the first direction, resisting the expansion deformation of the first wall surface at the corners, reducing the possibility of cracking and failure at the connection between the casing and the end cap, as well as at the connection between two adjacent casing walls, due to the battery expansion force, thereby improving the overall stability of the casing and enhancing the reliability of the battery device.

[0006] In some embodiments, the second component further includes a connecting portion connected to the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion, and one of the first limiting portion, the second limiting portion and the connecting portion is connected to the first component.

[0007] Therefore, by connecting a portion of the second component to the first component, multiple parts of the second component can be directly or indirectly connected to the first component, thereby improving the convenience of connecting the second and first components. Simultaneously, it also expands the possible locations for the first component, enhancing the convenience and flexibility of its arrangement.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first limiting portion and / or the second limiting portion extend along a third direction, and the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction intersect each other.

[0009] This allows the first limiting part and / or the second limiting part to cover a larger area of ​​the first wall surface along the third direction, so that the first limiting part and / or the second limiting part can more fully restrain and limit the first wall surface at various points along the third direction, improve the resistance of the first limiting part and / or the second limiting part to the expansion deformation of the first wall surface at the corner, and further reduce the possibility of the shell cracking and failing.

[0010] In some embodiments, the connecting portion extends along a first direction, and the housing has a connecting portion at at least one end in a third direction. The connecting portion, the first limiting portion, and the second limiting portion together form a first clearance opening.

[0011] Therefore, the first clearance opening formed by the connecting part, the first limiting part and the second limiting part can avoid the large expansion and deformation of the battery cell in the middle area of ​​the first wall, so that the battery cell can work normally.

[0012] In some embodiments, the connecting portion is made of the same material as the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion.

[0013] Therefore, using the same material for all parts of the second component improves the ease of manufacturing it. On the other hand, it also allows the connecting part to have good strength and rigidity, following the first and second limiting parts. This ensures that even when connected to the first component solely by the first limiting part, the second limiting part, located away from the first component, can still effectively restrain and limit the corners of the outer casing through the connection and limiting of the first and connecting parts.

[0014] In some embodiments, the battery device further includes a filler disposed within the first clearance opening, the filler being a heat-insulating buffer.

[0015] Therefore, the first clearance opening can limit the filling material, so that the filling material can stably provide heat insulation and buffering for the battery cells.

[0016] In some embodiments, the connecting portion is a heat-insulating buffer and extends in a third direction.

[0017] Therefore, there is no need to set up additional heat insulation buffers, which helps to simplify the number of battery device components and improve the convenience of manufacturing and assembly.

[0018] In some embodiments, the connecting part, the first limiting part, and the second limiting part are integrally formed.

[0019] This strengthens the connections between the various parts, thereby improving the overall stability and reliability of the second component. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for subsequent assembly, thus enhancing the ease of battery device manufacturing.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first component is disposed opposite to the end cap, the first limiting portion is disposed closer to the first component than the second limiting portion, and the first component is connected to the first limiting portion.

[0021] Therefore, the first component can restrain and limit the end cap, so that when the battery cell experiences thermal runaway and the air pressure inside the casing increases, the possibility of the end cap loosening and cracking under the air pressure impact inside the casing can be reduced, thereby further improving the overall stability of the casing.

[0022] In some embodiments, the end cap is provided with a clearance object, and the first component is provided with a second clearance opening at the position corresponding to the clearance object. The clearance object includes a pole and / or an explosion-proof valve.

[0023] Therefore, by exposing the terminal post through the second clearance opening, it is convenient to electrically connect adjacent battery cells via the busbar. Furthermore, by exposing the explosion-proof valve through the second clearance opening, it is convenient for the explosion-proof valve to perform normal venting and pressure relief operations in the event of thermal runaway in a battery cell.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first component and the first limiting portion are integrally formed.

[0025] This strengthens the connection between the first and second components, thereby improving the overall stability and reliability of the protective structure and enhancing its restraining and limiting effect at the corners of the battery cell's casing. Simultaneously, it eliminates the need for subsequent assembly, thus improving the ease of battery device manufacturing.

[0026] In some embodiments, a reinforcing member is provided at the connection between the first component and the second component, and the reinforcing member is located on the side of the protective member facing away from the battery cell.

[0027] Therefore, by reinforcing the components, the connection between the first and second components can be strengthened, thereby further improving the overall stability of the protective components and providing better restraint and limiting effect at the corners of the outer shell.

[0028] In some embodiments, the protective member further includes a third component, wherein one end of two adjacent second components is connected to a first component, and the other end of two adjacent second components is connected to a second component.

[0029] This allows the first component to be connected and limited at both ends, which helps to improve the stability of the combined structure formed by the protective component and the third component, so as to further enhance the restraint and limiting effect on the corners of the outer shell.

[0030] In some embodiments, there are multiple battery cells, and at least some of the battery cells are arranged along the second direction to form a battery pack; a battery pack is provided with at least two protective members, and multiple battery cells in the battery pack are respectively disposed between at least two second components in each protective member; Therefore, the battery expansion force in the battery pack can be distributed to at least two protective components, reducing the expansion force load on each protective component, so as to more stably restrain and limit the corners of the battery cell casing.

[0031] In some embodiments, there are multiple battery cells, and at least some of the battery cells are arranged along the second direction to form a battery pack; a battery pack is provided with at least two protective members, and some of the battery cells in the battery pack are respectively disposed between at least two second parts in each protective member, and some of the battery cells are disposed between the second parts of two adjacent protective members.

[0032] Therefore, two adjacent protective components can be used to restrain and limit the corner of the battery cell casing located between them, which helps to reduce the number of protective components required.

[0033] In some embodiments, there are multiple battery cells, and at least some of the battery cells are arranged along a second direction to form a battery pack; one battery pack corresponds to one protective member, and multiple battery cells in the battery pack are disposed between at least two second components in the protective member.

[0034] Therefore, multiple battery cells in the battery pack can share a single protective component to restrain and limit the corners of the casing, which helps to reduce the number of protective components required.

[0035] On the other hand, the electrical equipment proposed in this application includes the battery device in any of the above embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of one embodiment of the vehicle of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the battery device of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a single battery cell according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the battery device of this application; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of a single battery cell and protective components; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first embodiment of the protective component of this application; Figure 7 This is a structural schematic diagram of the second embodiment of the protective component of this application; Figure 8 This is a structural schematic diagram of the third embodiment of the protective component of this application; Figure 9 This is a structural schematic diagram of the fourth embodiment of the protective component of this application; Figure 10 This is a structural schematic diagram of the fifth embodiment of the protective component of this application; Figure 11 This is a structural schematic diagram of the sixth embodiment of the protective component of this application.

[0038] Explanation of icon numbers: 100. Battery assembly; 1. Battery box; 1a. Receptacle; 11. Box cover; 12. Box body; 20. Battery cell; 20A. Battery pack; 20B. Outer casing; 22. Housing; 21a. Terminal post; 221. First wall surface; 222. Second wall surface; 223. Third wall surface; 21. End cap; 21c. Explosion-proof valve; 23. Electrode assembly; 231. Electrode tab; 30. Protective component; 31. First component; 311. Second clearance opening; 33. Second component; 331. First limiting part; 332. Second limiting part; 333. Connecting part; 334. First clearance opening; 35. Reinforcing component; 37. Third component; 40. Filler; 200. Controller; 300. Motor; 1000. Vehicle; X. First direction; Y. Second direction; Z. Third direction.

[0039] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0040] 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 the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0041] It should be noted that all directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of this application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicator will also change accordingly.

[0042] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixed" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0043] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in this application is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the word "and / or" throughout the text means including three parallel solutions; for example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution that simultaneously satisfies A and B. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of a person skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

[0044] Battery devices, which are devices used to store electrical energy, are widely used not only in energy storage power systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power and solar power plants, but also in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, electric cars and other fields.

[0045] The battery device may include a battery case and individual battery cells disposed within the battery case. The battery case may include a casing and a cover that closes to the casing to enclose a cavity for housing the individual battery cells. The individual battery cell is the smallest unit comprising the battery and typically includes a housing and an electrode assembly disposed within the housing. The electrode assembly is the component within the individual battery cell where the electrochemical reaction actually occurs, and may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator located between them, formed by winding or stacking the positive electrode, negative electrode, and separator. Furthermore, at least two individual battery cells located within the battery case may be connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid connection including both series and parallel connections.

[0046] Furthermore, during the operation of a single battery cell, expansion typically occurs, generating battery expansion force. As the energy density of the battery device increases, the battery expansion force also increases. At this point, battery cells in some weak areas, such as the weld joint between the outer casing and the end cap, or the joint between two adjacent casing walls, are prone to failure under the action of battery expansion force, affecting the reliability of the battery device.

[0047] Therefore, based on the above considerations, in order to improve the reliability of the battery device, this application proposes a novel battery device. This battery device innovatively positions the battery cell between two second components of the protective member, such that the two second components are located in the direction of the battery cell's expansion force, i.e., on both sides of the second direction. The first and second limiting parts in the second components respectively restrain and limit the corners at both ends of the battery cell's casing in the first direction, reducing the possibility of the casing cracking and failing at the corners due to the battery's expansion force.

[0048] Furthermore, it should be noted that the battery device proposed in this application can be applied to electrical devices. These electrical devices can be, but are not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, electric toys, power tools, electric vehicles, electric cars, ships, spacecraft, etc. Further, electric toys can include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc., and spacecraft can include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc.

[0049] For ease of explanation, the following embodiments will use a vehicle as an example of an electrical device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0050] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle 1000 provided in some embodiments of this application. The vehicle 1000 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 battery device 100 is installed inside the vehicle 1000, and the battery device 100 can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle 1000. The battery device 100 can be used to power the vehicle 1000; for example, the battery device 100 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000. The vehicle 1000 may also include a controller 200 and a motor 300. The controller 200 is used to control the battery device 100 to supply power to the motor 300, for example, to meet the power needs of the vehicle 1000 during starting, navigation, and driving.

[0051] In some embodiments of this application, the battery device 100 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000, but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 1000, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.

[0052] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery device 100 provided in some embodiments of this application. The battery device 100 includes a battery case 1 and a battery cell 20; the battery case 1 has a receiving cavity 1a, and the battery cell 20 is disposed inside the battery case 1.

[0053] The battery case 1 can be used to form a receiving cavity 1a to provide a space for accommodating the battery cell 20. The battery case 1 can adopt various structures. In some embodiments, the battery case 1 can include a cover 11 and a body 12 that overlap each other to jointly define the receiving cavity 1a for accommodating the battery cell 20. In this case, the body 12 can provide accommodating support for the battery cell 20. In addition, both the cover 11 and the body 12 can be hollow structures with an opening on one side. In this case, the opening side of the cover 11 can cover the opening side of the body 12. Of course, the cover 11 can also be a plate structure and cover the opening side of the body 12. In addition, the battery case 1 formed by the cover 11 and the body 12 can be of various shapes, such as a cylinder, a cuboid, etc. This application does not limit the shape of the battery case 1.

[0054] A battery cell 20 refers to the smallest unit that makes up the battery device 100. The number of battery cells 20 can be one, or two or more. When there are multiple battery cells 20, they can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a mixed configuration. A mixed configuration means that multiple battery cells 20 are connected in both series and parallel. Multiple battery cells 20 can be arranged in one direction to form a battery pack 20A. The battery device 100 may include only one battery pack 20A, or it may include at least two battery packs 20A arranged side-by-side.

[0055] In addition, the battery device 100 may include other structures, such as busbars, for electrical connection between multiple battery cells 20. Furthermore, each battery cell 20 may be a secondary or primary battery; it may also be a lithium-sulfur battery, a sodium-ion battery, or a magnesium-ion battery, but is not limited thereto. The battery cell 20 may be flat, cuboid, or other shapes.

[0056] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery cell 20 provided in some embodiments of this application. The battery cell 20 includes a housing 20B and an electrode assembly 23; the housing 20B includes a shell 22 and an end cap 21, at least one end of the shell 22 is open in the first direction X, the end cap 21 covers the opening of the shell 22, and the electrode assembly 23 is disposed inside the shell 22.

[0057] End cap 21 refers to a component that covers the opening of housing 22 to isolate the internal environment of battery cell 20 from the external environment. The shape of end cap 21 can be adapted to the shape of housing 22 to fit it. Optionally, end cap 21 can be made of a material with certain hardness and strength (such as aluminum alloy), so that end cap 21 is not easily deformed under pressure and impact, giving battery cell 20 higher structural strength and improving reliability. Functional components such as terminals 21a can be provided on end cap 21. Terminals 21a can be used to electrically connect to electrode assembly 23 for outputting or inputting electrical energy into battery cell 20. In some embodiments, end cap 21 can also be provided with an explosion-proof valve 21c for releasing internal pressure when the internal pressure or temperature of battery cell 20 reaches a threshold. The material of end cap 21 can also be various, such as copper, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, plastic, etc., and this application embodiment does not impose any special limitations on this. In some embodiments, an insulating element may be provided on the inner side of the end cap 21. The insulating element can be used to isolate the electrical components inside the housing 22 from the end cap 21 to reduce the risk of short circuits. For example, the insulating element may be made of plastic, rubber, etc.

[0058] The housing 22 is a component used to cooperate with the end cap 21 to form the internal environment of the battery cell 20. This internal environment can accommodate the electrode assembly 23, electrolyte, and other components. The housing 22 and the end cap 21 can be independent components. An opening can be provided on the housing 22, and the end cap 21 can be used to close the opening to form the internal environment of the battery cell 20. The housing 22 may have an opening at one end in the first direction X, or it may have openings at both ends in the first direction X. Furthermore, when the battery device 100 is in normal installation and use, the first direction X can be vertical, and the cover 11 and the housing 12 can be arranged along the first direction X. Of course, in other embodiments, the first direction X can also be horizontal; this application does not limit the type of direction of the first direction X. In addition, the housing 22 can have various shapes and sizes, such as cuboid, cylindrical, hexagonal prism, etc. Specifically, the shape of the housing 22 can be determined according to the specific shape and size of the electrode assembly 23. The shell 22 can be made of various materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, plastic, etc. This application embodiment does not impose any special restrictions on this.

[0059] Electrode assembly 23 is the component in the battery cell 20 where the electrochemical reaction occurs. The casing 22 may contain one or more electrode assemblies 23. The electrode assembly 23 is mainly formed by winding or stacking positive and negative electrode plates, and typically a separator is provided between the positive and negative electrode plates. The portions of the positive and negative electrode plates containing active material constitute the main body of the electrode assembly 23, while the portions of the positive and negative electrode plates without active material each constitute a tab 231. The positive and negative tabs may be located together at one end of the main body or at opposite ends of the main body. During the charging and discharging process of the battery device 100, the positive and negative active materials react with the electrolyte, and the tabs 231 connect to the terminals 21a to form a current loop.

[0060] Please refer to Figure 3 In one embodiment of this application, the housing 22 has two opposing first wall surfaces 221 in the second direction Y, which intersects with the first direction X, and the area of ​​the first wall surface 221 is larger than the area of ​​the other wall surfaces of the housing 22. The housing 22 may have a side peripheral surface surrounding the opening, which may include two opposing first wall surfaces 221 and two opposing second wall surfaces 222. The two first wall surfaces 221 are arranged along a second direction Y, and the two second wall surfaces 222 are arranged along a third direction. Wherein, when the first direction X is a vertical direction as described above, the second direction Y can be a horizontal direction, and the third direction Z can be another horizontal direction. The first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z intersect each other.

[0061] In addition, since the area of ​​the first wall 221 is larger than the area of ​​the second wall 222, the first wall 221 is the main target of the battery expansion force. Therefore, it can be said that the second direction Y intersecting the first wall 221 is the direction of the battery expansion force.

[0062] Furthermore, when the housing 22 has an opening at only one end in the first direction X, the other end of the housing 22 in the first direction X may also have a third wall surface 223 that is angled to the first wall surface 221 and the second wall surface 222.

[0063] Please refer to the reference. Figures 3 to 6 In one embodiment of this application, the battery device 100 further includes a protective member 30, which is disposed in the accommodating cavity 1a of the battery box 1. The protective member 30 includes a first component 31 and at least two second components 33. The at least two second components 33 are connected to the same first component 31 and are arranged at intervals along the second direction Y. At least one battery cell 20 is provided between two adjacent second components 33. The second component 33 includes a first limiting part 331 and a second limiting part 332. The first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332 are disposed corresponding to the first wall surface 221 and are respectively disposed at both ends of the housing 22 in the first direction X.

[0064] The first component 31 can be used to connect at least two second components 33, so as to pull and limit the at least two second components 33 in the second direction Y. The first component 31 can be a plate structure or a column structure; this application does not limit the structural type of the first component 31. Furthermore, the first component 31 and the outer casing 20B of the battery cell 20 can be arranged along the first direction X, for example, the first component 31 can be correspondingly arranged with the end cap 21 in the outer casing 20B; of course, the first component 31 and the outer casing 20B can also be arranged along the third direction Z; this application also limits the placement of the first component 31. In addition, the first component 31 and the outer casing 20B may not be connected; for example, they may be spaced apart or abutted. Alternatively, the first component 31 and the outer casing 20B may be connected, for example, by adhesive bonding.

[0065] The second component 33 can be configured to correspond to the first wall surface 221 of the housing 22. The first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332 in the second component 33 can be arranged along the first direction X, respectively corresponding to the two end regions of the first wall surface 221 in the first direction X. For example, when the first direction X is vertical as described above, the first limiting part 331 can correspond to the top region of the first wall surface 221, and the second limiting part 332 can correspond to the bottom region of the first wall surface 221. In this case, under the restraint of the first component 31, the first limiting part 331 can restrain and limit the upper corner of the housing 20B, that is, the weld joint between the housing 22 and the upper end cap 21, resisting the expansion deformation of the first wall surface 221 at that location and reducing the possibility of cracking failure under the force of battery expansion. Similarly, under the restraining and limiting effect of the first component 31, the second limiting part 332 can restrain and limit the weld joint between the housing 22 and the upper end cap 21 at the lower corner of the housing 20B, i.e., when both ends of the housing 22 have openings in the first direction X. This resists the expansion deformation of the first wall surface 221 at that location and reduces the possibility of cracking failure under the expansion force of the battery. When the housing 22 has an opening only at the upper end in the first direction X, the second limiting part 332 can restrain and limit the connection between the first wall surface 221 and the third wall surface 223 of the housing 22, resisting the expansion deformation of the first wall surface 221 at that location and reducing the possibility of cracking failure under the expansion force of the battery. The first limiting part 331 can be a plate structure or a column structure. Similarly, the second limiting part 332 can be a plate structure, or it can be a column structure. This application does not limit the structural type of the first limiting part 331 and the second part. Moreover, the first limiting part 331 can extend in a strip shape along the third direction Z, or it can include at least two spacer segments in the third direction Z. Similarly, the second limiting part 332 can extend in a strip shape along the third direction Z, or it can include at least two spacer segments in the third direction Z.

[0066] Additionally, it should be noted that the first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332 can be simultaneously connected to the first component 31. For example, the first component 31 can be disposed on one side of the housing 22 in the third direction Z, and the first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332 can be connected to the first component 31 through one end in the third direction Z. Of course, the second component 33 can also include a connecting part 333 as described below, connecting the first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332 through the connecting part 333, so that the various parts of the second component 33 can form a whole, and then be connected to the first component 31 through one of the first limiting part 331, the second limiting part 332 and the connecting part 333.

[0067] Furthermore, a protective member 30 may consist of only two second components 33. In this case, one protective member 30 may correspond to one battery cell 20, meaning the number of protective members 30 may correspond to the number of battery cells 20, with each battery cell 20 positioned between the two second components 33 of one protective member 30. Alternatively, one protective member 30 may correspond to multiple battery cells 20, meaning multiple battery cells 20 may be positioned between the two second components 33 of the protective member 30. For example, one protective member 30 may correspond to one battery pack 20A, with all battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A positioned between the two second components 33 of the protective member 30. Alternatively, a protective member 30 may include three or more second components 33, allowing one protective member 30 to accommodate more battery cells 20 through each pair of adjacent second components 33. At this time, one protective component 30 can be set to correspond to one battery pack 20A, that is, the battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A are distributed among the various second components 33 in the same protective component 30; of course, at least two protective components 30 can be set to correspond to one battery pack 20A, that is, the battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A are distributed among the various second components 33 in different protective components 30.

[0068] In addition, to improve the insulation protection, the first component 31, the first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332 can be made of insulating materials, such as plastic.

[0069] In the battery device 100 of this application, when the battery cell 20 expands along the second direction Y, that is, in the direction intersecting the first wall surface 221 of the casing 22 of the battery cell 20, the first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332 of the second component 33 in the protective member 30 are provided corresponding to the first wall surface 221, and two adjacent second components 33 are connected and restrained by the first component 31 in the protective member 30. At this time, the first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332 can restrain and limit the corners at both ends of the casing 20B of the battery cell 20 in the first direction X, resist the expansion deformation of the first wall surface 221 at the corners, reduce the possibility of cracking failure at the connection between the casing 22 and the end cap 21, and at the connection between two adjacent casing walls of the casing 22 due to the battery expansion force, improve the overall stability of the casing 20B and improve the reliability of the battery device 100.

[0070] Please refer to Figure 6 In one embodiment of this application, the second component 33 further includes a connecting portion 333, which is connected to the first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332. One of the first limiting portion 331, the second limiting portion 332 and the connecting portion 333 is connected to the first component 31.

[0071] The connecting portion 333 can be used to connect the first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332. The connecting portion 333 can be a strip extending along the first direction as described below, or it can further extend along a third direction Z as a plate. This application does not limit the structural type of the connecting portion 333. Furthermore, the connecting portion 333 can be disposed corresponding to the first wall surface 221, or it can be offset from the first wall surface 221 in the second direction Y, as long as it can connect the first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332.

[0072] In this embodiment, the first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332, which are arranged along the first direction X, can be connected by the connecting part 333, so that the various parts of the second component 33 can form a whole. At this time, by connecting one part of the second component 33, such as the first limiting part 331, the second limiting part 332, or the connecting part 333, to the first component 31, multiple parts of the second component 33 can establish direct and indirect connection relationships with the first component 31, thereby improving the convenience of connecting the second component 33 and the first component 31. At the same time, it can also enrich the settable position of the first component 31, so that it can be arranged on one side of the outer shell 20B in the first direction X, or on one side of the third direction Z, according to needs and space, improving the convenience and flexibility of arranging the first component 31.

[0073] Please refer to Figure 6In one embodiment of this application, the first limiting portion 331 is provided to extend along the third direction Z.

[0074] The first limiting portion 331 may extend from one end of the housing 22 in the third direction Z to the opposite end. The length of the first limiting portion 331 in the third direction Z may be equal to the length of the first wall surface 221 in the third direction Z. Alternatively, the ratio of the length of the first limiting portion 331 in the third direction Z to the length of the first wall surface 221 in the third direction Z may be defined as N1, where 0.8 ≤ N1 < 1. Or, the length of the first limiting portion 331 in the third direction Z may be greater than the length of the first wall surface 221 in the third direction Z.

[0075] In this embodiment, the first limiting part 331 is set as a strip structure along the third direction Z, so that the first limiting part 331 can cover more area of ​​the first wall surface 221 along the third direction Z, so that the first limiting part 331 can more fully bind and limit the first wall surface 221 at various points along the third direction Z, improve the resistance of the first limiting part 331 to the expansion deformation of the first wall surface 221 at the corner, and further reduce the possibility of the outer shell 20B cracking and failing.

[0076] Please refer to Figure 6 In one embodiment of this application, the second limiting portion 332 is provided to extend along the third direction Z.

[0077] The second limiting portion 332 may extend from one end of the housing 22 in the third direction Z to the opposite end. The length of the second limiting portion 332 in the third direction Z may be equal to the length of the first wall surface 221 in the third direction Z. Alternatively, the ratio of the length of the second limiting portion 332 in the third direction Z to the length of the first wall surface 221 in the third direction Z may be defined as N², where 0.8 ≤ N² < 1. Or, the length of the second limiting portion 332 in the third direction Z may be greater than the length of the first wall surface 221 in the third direction Z.

[0078] In this embodiment, the second limiting part 332 is configured as a strip structure along the third direction Z, so that the second limiting part 332 can cover more area of ​​the first wall surface 221 along the third direction Z, so that the second limiting part 332 can more fully bind and limit the first wall surface 221 at various points along the third direction Z, improve the resistance of the second limiting part 332 to the expansion deformation of the first wall surface 221 at the corner, and further reduce the possibility of cracking failure of the outer shell 20B.

[0079] Please refer to Figure 6In one embodiment of this application, the connecting portion 333 extends along the first direction X, and the housing 22 is provided with the connecting portion 333 at at least one end in the third direction Z. The connecting portion 333, the first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332 surround to form a first clearance opening 334.

[0080] The number of connecting parts 333 can be one. In this case, the first clearance opening 334 formed by the connecting part 333, the first limiting part 331, and the second limiting part 332 can be provided as an opening on the side away from the connecting part 333 in the third direction Z. Of course, the number of connecting parts 333 can also be two. In this case, the first clearance opening 334 formed by the connecting part 333, the first limiting part 331, and the second limiting part 332 can be provided as a closed opening.

[0081] In this embodiment, the connecting part 333 is disposed at at least one end of the housing 22 in the third direction Z, so that the first clearance opening 334 is formed by the connecting part 333, the first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332, which can avoid the large expansion deformation of the battery cell 20 in the middle area of ​​the first wall surface 221, so that the battery cell 20 can work normally.

[0082] Furthermore, since the connecting portion 333 avoids the large expansion and deformation of the battery cell 20 in the middle region of the first wall surface 221, the material selection of the connecting portion 333 can be more flexible. For example, in some embodiments, the connecting portion 333 can be made of the same material as the first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332. In this case, on the one hand, setting the material of each part of the second component 33 to be the same is beneficial to improving the convenience of processing and manufacturing the second component 33. On the other hand, it can also make the connecting portion 333 have good strength and rigidity along with the first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332, so that when it is connected to the first component 31 only through the first limiting portion 331, the second limiting portion 332 set away from the first component 31 can still play a good restraining and limiting role at the corner of the outer casing 20B through the connection and limiting of the first limiting portion 331 and the connecting portion 333.

[0083] Of course, in other embodiments, the material of the connecting part 333 may be different from the material of the first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332.

[0084] Please refer to the reference. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In one embodiment of this application, the battery device 100 further includes a filler 40, which is disposed within the first clearance opening 334 and is a heat-insulating buffer.

[0085] The filler 40 can be made of a material with heat insulation and elasticity properties, such as foam or rubber.

[0086] In this embodiment, the first clearance opening 334 can limit the filling material 40 so that the filling material 40 can stably provide heat insulation and buffering for the battery cell 20.

[0087] Please refer to Figure 7 In one embodiment of this application, the connecting part 333 may be directly configured as a heat insulation buffer and extended along the third direction Z.

[0088] The connecting portion 333 can be formed in the shape of a plate. In the third direction Z, the length of the connecting portion 333 can be equal to the length of the first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332, or it can be less than the length of the first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332.

[0089] In this embodiment, the connecting part 333 is set as a heat insulation buffer, so that there is no need to set an additional heat insulation buffer, which helps to simplify the number of parts of the battery device 100 and improve the convenience of manufacturing and assembly.

[0090] In one embodiment of this application, the connecting part 333, the first limiting part 331, and the second limiting part 332 are integrally formed structures.

[0091] A one-piece molded structure refers to a structure manufactured through a one-piece molding process such as injection molding or extrusion molding.

[0092] In this embodiment, the connecting part 333, the first limiting part 331, and the second limiting part 332 are integrated into a single structure, which enhances the connection strength between the various parts and thus improves the overall stability and reliability of the second component 33. Furthermore, subsequent assembly can be omitted, thereby improving the ease of manufacturing the battery device 100.

[0093] Of course, this application is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the connecting part 333, the first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332 may also be set separately and then connected by adhesive or other connection methods.

[0094] Please refer to the reference. Figures 3 to 6 In one embodiment of this application, the first component 31 is disposed opposite to the end cap 21, the first limiting part 331 is disposed closer to the first component 31 than the second limiting part 332, and the first component 31 is connected to the first limiting part 331.

[0095] When the battery cell 20 includes two end caps 21, the first component 31 can be disposed opposite to one of the two end caps 21. The first limiting portion 331 being disposed closer to the first component 31 than the second limiting portion 332 means that the first limiting portion 331 and the first component 31 are located at the same end of the housing 20B. For example, when the first direction X is vertical as described above, the first limiting portion 331 and the first component 31 can be disposed at the upper end of the housing 20B, and the second limiting portion 332 can be disposed at the lower end of the housing 20B.

[0096] In this embodiment, the first component 31 is arranged opposite to the end cap 21, so that the first component 31 can restrain and limit the end cap 21. In order to reduce the possibility of the end cap 21 loosening and cracking under the pressure impact inside the casing 20B when the battery cell 20 experiences thermal runaway and the air pressure inside the casing 20B increases, the overall stability of the casing 20B is further improved.

[0097] In one embodiment of this application, the first limiting part 331 and the first component 31 can be integrally formed to enhance the connection strength between the first component 31 and the second component 33, thereby improving the overall stability and reliability of the protective member 30 and enhancing the restraining and limiting effect on the corner of the casing 20B of the battery cell 20. Simultaneously, subsequent assembly can be omitted, thus improving the ease of manufacturing the battery device 100.

[0098] Please refer to the reference. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In one embodiment of this application, the first component 31 may be provided with a second clearance opening 311 to avoid objects disposed on the end cap 21, including the terminal post 21a and / or the explosion-proof valve 21c. In this case, the second clearance opening 311 exposes the terminal post 21a, facilitating electrical connection to adjacent battery cells 20 via the busbar. The second clearance opening 311 also exposes the explosion-proof valve 21c, facilitating its normal venting and depressurization operation in the event of thermal runaway in the battery cell 20. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second clearance opening 311 can accommodate the object being avoided, allowing for a more compact arrangement between the first component 31 and the end cap 21.

[0099] Please refer to Figure 11 In one embodiment of this application, a reinforcing member 35 is provided at the connection between the first component 31 and the second component 33, and the reinforcing member 35 is located on the side of the protective member 30 facing away from the battery cell 20.

[0100] The reinforcing member 35 can be in the form of a reinforcing rib, which can be a rib structure and can extend along a third direction Z. Of course, the reinforcing rib can also be a ribbed structure, and multiple ribbed structures can be arranged side by side at intervals along a third direction. Alternatively, the reinforcing member 35 can also be in the form of a protrusion, and multiple protrusions can be arranged at intervals along a third direction.

[0101] In this embodiment, the reinforcing member 35 can structurally strengthen the connection between the first component 31 and the second component 33, for example, the connection between the first limiting part 331 and the second component 33, thereby further improving the overall stability of the protective member 30 and providing better restraint and limiting effect at the corner of the outer casing 20B. Furthermore, since the reinforcing member 35 is located on the side of the protective member 30 opposite to the battery cell 20, it will not interfere with the arrangement of the battery cell 20, improving the compactness of the distribution between the protective member 30 and the battery cell 20.

[0102] Please refer to Figure 11 In one embodiment of this application, the connection between the first component 31 and the second component 33 can be rounded to accommodate the rounded corners of the outer casing 20B at the corners, further protecting the compactness of the distribution between the protective member 30 and the battery cell 20. In this case, the reinforcing member 35 can be disposed at the chamfer of the first component 31 and the second component 33.

[0103] Please refer to Figure 4 In one embodiment of this application, there are multiple battery cells 20, and at least some of the battery cells 20 are arranged along the second direction Y to form a battery pack 20A; a battery pack 20A is provided with at least two protective members 30, and the multiple battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A are respectively disposed between at least two second components 33 in each protective member 30.

[0104] In this embodiment, at least two protective members 30 are provided for each battery pack 20A, so that the battery expansion force in the battery pack 20A can be distributed to at least two protective members 30, reducing the expansion force load on each protective member 30, so as to more stably restrain and limit the corners of the outer casing 20B of the battery cell 20. Specifically, when each protective member 30 includes two second components 33, and a battery cell 20 is disposed between the two second components 33, the number of protective members 30 can be the same as the number of battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A; when two or more battery cells 20 are disposed between two second components 33, the number of protective members 30 can be less than the number of battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A. Alternatively, when each protective member 30 includes three or more second components 33, regardless of whether one or more battery cells 20 are disposed between adjacent second components 33, the number of protective members 30 can be less than the number of battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A.

[0105] Additionally, it should be noted that when a battery pack 20A corresponds to at least two protective members 30, some battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A can be respectively disposed between at least two second components 33 in each protective member 30, and some battery cells 20 can be disposed between the second components 33 of two adjacent protective members 30. In this case, by disposing some battery cells 20 between two adjacent protective members 30, the close proximity of the second components 33 of the two adjacent protective members 30 can also restrain and limit the corner of the outer casing 20B of the battery cell 20 located between the two adjacent protective members 30, thereby reducing the number of protective members 30 required.

[0106] Please refer to Figure 8 or Figure 9 In one embodiment of this application, a battery pack 20A is provided with a corresponding protective member 30, and a plurality of battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A are disposed between at least two second components 33 in the protective member 30.

[0107] In this embodiment, multiple battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A can share a single protective member 30 to restrain and limit the corners of the outer casing 20B, which helps to reduce the number of protective members 30 required. When there are two second components 33 in the protective member 30, all battery cells 20 in the battery pack 20A can be located between the two second components 33. When there are three or more second components 33 in the protective member 30, at least one battery cell 20 can be disposed between every two adjacent second components 33.

[0108] Please refer to Figure 10In one embodiment of this application, the protective member 30 further includes a third component 37. Among any three second components 33, one end of two adjacent second components 33 is connected to the first component 31, and the other end of two adjacent second components 33 is connected to the second component 33.

[0109] In this embodiment, the protective member 30 is formed as a continuously bent "S-shaped" structure. When the first component 31 is located on one side of the outer casing 20B in the first direction X, among any three second components 33, one end of two adjacent second components 33 in the first direction X can be connected through the first component 31; the other end of two adjacent second components 33 in the first direction X can also be connected through the first component 31. This allows the first component 31 to be connected and limited at both ends in the first direction X, which helps improve the overall structural stability of the protective member 30 and further enhances the restraining and limiting effect on the corners of the outer casing 20B. Simultaneously, this arrangement allows the protective member 30 to accommodate more battery cells 20, thereby reducing the required number of protective members 30. Specifically, the first component 31 can be connected to the first limiting portion 331 of two adjacent second components 33, and the third component 37 can be connected to the second limiting portion 332 of another pair of adjacent second components 33. The end cap 21 of the battery cell 20 corresponding to the third component 37, which is equipped with the terminal post 21a and / or the explosion-proof valve 21c, can be positioned either facing away from the third component 37 or facing the third component 37. When the end cap 21 with the terminal post 21a and / or the explosion-proof valve 21c faces the third component 37, the third component 37 can be equipped with a second clearance opening 311, similar to the first component 31, to allow passage for the terminal post 21a and / or the explosion-proof valve 21c.

[0110] Please refer to the reference. Figures 3 to 6In one embodiment of this application, the battery device 100 includes a battery cell 20 and a protective member 30. The battery cell 20 includes a housing 20B and an electrode assembly 23 disposed within the housing 20B. The housing 20B includes a shell 22 and an end cap 21. The shell 22 is open at least at one end in a first direction X, and the end cap 21 covers the opening of the shell 22. The shell 22 has two opposing first walls 221 in a second direction Y, which intersects the first direction X. The area of ​​the first walls 221 is larger than the area of ​​the other walls of the shell 22. The protective member 30 includes a first component 31 and at least two second components 33. The at least two second components 33 are connected to the same first component 31 and are arranged at intervals along the second direction Y. At least one battery cell 20 is disposed between two adjacent second components 33. The second component 33 includes a first limiting part 331 and a second limiting part 332. The first limiting part 331 and the second limiting part 332 are disposed corresponding to the first wall 221 and are respectively disposed at both ends of the shell 22 in the first direction X. The second component 33 also includes a connecting portion 333, which connects to the first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332. One of the first limiting portion 331, the second limiting portion 332, and the connecting portion 333 is connected to the first component 31. The first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332 extend along a third direction Z, and the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z intersect each other. The connecting portion 333 extends along the first direction X. The housing 22 has a connecting portion 333 at at least one end in the third direction Z. The connecting portion 333, the first limiting portion 331, and the second limiting portion 332 together form a first clearance opening 334. The connecting portion 333 is made of the same material as the first limiting portion 331 and the second limiting portion 332; the connecting portion 333, the first limiting portion 331, and the second limiting portion 332 are integrally formed; the first component 31 is disposed opposite to the end cap 21, and the first limiting portion 331 is connected to the first component 31. A reinforcing member 35 is provided at the connection between the first component 31 and the second component 33, and the reinforcing member 35 is located on the side of the protective component 30 facing away from the battery cell 20. There are two second components 33 and at least two protective components 30, which are arranged along the second direction Y. A battery cell 20 is provided between two adjacent second components 33 in each protective component 30.

[0111] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the inventive concept of this application and the contents of the specification and drawings of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A battery device, characterized in that, include: A battery cell, the battery cell comprising a housing and an end cap, the housing having an opening at at least one end in a first direction, the end cap covering the opening of the housing; the housing having two opposing first walls in a second direction, the second direction intersecting the first direction, the area of ​​the first walls being larger than the area of ​​the other walls of the housing; and The protective component includes a first component and at least two second components, wherein the at least two second components are connected to the same first component and are arranged at intervals along the second direction, and at least one battery cell is provided between two adjacent second components; The second component includes a first limiting part and a second limiting part, which are disposed corresponding to the first wall surface and respectively located at both ends of the housing in the first direction.

2. The battery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The second component further includes a connecting portion, which is connected to the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion, and one of the first limiting portion, the second limiting portion and the connecting portion is connected to the first component.

3. The battery device as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, The first limiting portion and / or the second limiting portion extend along a third direction, and the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction intersect each other.

4. The battery device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The connecting portion extends along the first direction, and the housing is provided with the connecting portion at at least one end in the third direction. The connecting portion, the first limiting portion, and the second limiting portion together form a first clearance opening.

5. The battery device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The connecting part is made of the same material as the first limiting part and the second limiting part; And / or, the battery device further includes a filler disposed within the first clearance opening, the filler being a heat-insulating buffer.

6. The battery device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The connecting part is a heat-insulating buffer and extends along the third direction.

7. The battery device as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting part, the first limiting part, and the second limiting part are integrally formed.

8. The battery device as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, The first component is disposed opposite to the end cap, the first limiting portion is disposed closer to the first component than the second limiting portion, and the first component is connected to the first limiting portion.

9. The battery device as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The end cap is provided with a clearance object, and the first component is provided with a second clearance opening at the position corresponding to the clearance object. The clearance object includes a pole and / or an explosion-proof valve. And / or, the first component and the first limiting part are integrally formed.

10. The battery device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, A reinforcing member is provided at the connection between the first component and the second component, and the reinforcing member is located on the side of the protective member that faces away from the battery cell; And / or, the protective component further includes a third component, wherein, between any three second components, one end of two adjacent second components is connected to the first component, and the other end of another two adjacent second components is connected to the second component.

11. The battery device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The number of battery cells is multiple, and at least some of the battery cells are arranged along the second direction to form a battery pack. Each battery pack is provided with at least two of the protective components, and a plurality of battery cells in the battery pack are respectively disposed between at least two of the second components in each of the protective components; Alternatively, one battery pack may be provided with at least two protective members, and some of the battery cells in the battery pack may be provided between at least two second components in each of the protective members, and some of the battery cells may be provided between the second components of two adjacent protective members; Alternatively, one battery pack may be provided for one protective member, and a plurality of battery cells in the battery pack may be disposed between at least two of the second components in the protective member.

12. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, Includes the battery device as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

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