Battery cell, battery device, and electric device
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202621030511.2
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-07-08
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-29
- Estimated Expiration
- 2036-07-08
AI Technical Summary
[0019]第二方面,本申请提供了一种电池装置,包括多个根据第一方面任一实施例提供的电池单体。
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Figure CN224817348U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and more specifically, to a battery cell, a battery device, and an electrical appliance. Background Technology
[0002] Battery cells are widely used in electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric cars, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes, and power tools. Battery cells can include nickel-cadmium battery cells, nickel-metal hydride battery cells, lithium-ion battery cells, and secondary alkaline zinc-manganese battery cells, among others.
[0003] In the development of battery technology, how to improve the performance of individual battery cells is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved. Utility Model Content
[0004] In view of the above problems, this application provides a battery cell, a battery device, and an electrical device, which helps to improve the performance of the battery cell.
[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a battery cell, comprising: a housing having a first wall with a liquid injection port; an electrode assembly, at least a portion of which is housed within the housing; an insulating member disposed along a first direction on the side of the first wall facing the electrode assembly, the insulating member comprising an insulating body and a liquid injection portion connected to the insulating body, wherein the orthographic projection of the liquid injection portion at least partially overlaps the orthographic projection of the liquid injection port in a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction; the liquid injection portion having an opening gap connecting opposite sides of the insulating member along the first direction, the liquid injection portion being configured to undergo elastic deformation under external force to adjust the opening area of the opening gap; the battery cell further comprising a sealing pin disposed on the first wall and sealing the liquid injection port and the opening gap.
[0006] In some embodiments of the first aspect, by providing an injection portion on the insulating member, and the orthographic projection of the injection portion along the first direction at least partially overlapping the orthographic projection of the injection port on the first wall along the first direction, the injection tool can apply a certain force to the injection portion through the injection port to inject electrolyte into the battery cell. When the injection tool pushes against the injection portion, the injection portion deforms to increase the opening area of the opening gap, allowing electrolyte to be injected into the battery cell through the opening gap. After the injection is completed, the injection tool removes the pressure on the injection portion, and the injection portion rebounds to reduce the opening area of the opening gap. This effectively reduces the possibility of electrolyte overflowing from the opening gap within the battery cell, thereby effectively reducing electrolyte loss within the battery cell. Furthermore, after the injection is completed, sealing the injection port and the opening gap with a sealing pin effectively prevents electrolyte from overflowing from the injection port, ensuring reliable operation of the battery cell and improving its performance.
[0007] In some embodiments, the opening gap includes a plurality of sub-opening gaps, which are interconnected.
[0008] In the above technical solution, the interconnected sub-opening gaps make it easier for the injection section to deform when pushed by the injection tool, reducing the amount of external force required to increase the opening area. This allows for injection operations with different forces to be adapted to, and also reduces fatigue damage to the injection section during repeated pushing by the injection tool, which helps to improve the service life of the injection section. At the same time, when the external force of the injection tool is removed, the multiple intersecting sub-opening gaps can more stably rebound and shrink to form a structure with a smaller opening area, which helps to further improve the anti-overflow effect of the injection section, thereby better improving the performance of the battery cell.
[0009] In some embodiments, the connecting intersection of the plurality of sub-opening gaps is located at the geometric center of the injection section; and / or, the connecting intersection of the plurality of sub-opening gaps is located at the geometric center of each sub-opening gap; and / or, in a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction, the orthographic projection of the connecting intersection of the plurality of sub-opening gaps at least partially overlaps with the geometric center of the orthographic projection of the injection port.
[0010] In the above technical solution, by setting the connection point at the geometric center of the injection section and / or the geometric center of each sub-opening gap, the degree of deformation of each area of the injection section is more uniform when subjected to force, which can effectively reduce the possibility of damage or failure of the injection section due to excessive local deformation; by at least partially overlapping the orthographic projection of the connection point along the first direction with the orthographic projection of the geometric center of the injection port along the first direction, the injection tool can accurately act on the position of the connection point when pushing against the injection section, which is beneficial to improving the injection efficiency of the battery cell.
[0011] In some embodiments, the plurality of sub-opening gaps include a first sub-opening gap and a second sub-opening gap, wherein the extending direction of the first sub-opening gap is perpendicular to the extending direction of the second sub-opening gap.
[0012] In the above technical solution, the extension direction of the first sub-opening gap is perpendicular to the extension direction of the second sub-opening gap, which facilitates the formation of multiple sub-opening gaps on the injection part.
[0013] In some embodiments, the extended shape of the orthographic projection of the opening gap in a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction includes at least one of a dot shape, a straight line shape, and an arc shape.
[0014] In the above technical solution, the shape of the opening gap can be flexibly adjusted according to actual production needs, injection requirements and the material of the injection part, which is conducive to improving the diversity and flexibility of the injection part.
[0015] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of the injection section extends in a straight line or an arc along a direction perpendicular to the first direction. By configuring it in this way, the shape of the injection section can be flexibly adjusted according to actual production needs, injection requirements, and the material of the injection section, which helps to improve the versatility and flexibility of the injection section.
[0016] In some embodiments, the thickness of the injection portion along the first direction is less than or equal to the thickness of the insulating body; and / or, the thickness of the injection portion along the first direction is H, where 0.1 mm ≤ H ≤ 1 mm.
[0017] By setting it in the above way, the injection part can have sufficient elastic deformation capacity, and the possibility of it being difficult to deform under external force due to excessive thickness can be reduced, which is conducive to improving the effectiveness of the injection part in undergoing elastic deformation.
[0018] In some embodiments, the electrolyte injection section and the insulating body are integrally formed. This configuration improves the production efficiency of the insulating components, enhances the connection stability and sealing reliability between the electrolyte injection section and the insulating body, thereby further reducing the possibility of electrolyte leakage and improving the performance of the battery cell.
[0019] In a second aspect, this application provides a battery device including a plurality of battery cells provided according to any embodiment of the first aspect.
[0020] Thirdly, this application provides an electrical device, including a battery device according to any embodiment of the second aspect, or including a battery cell according to any embodiment of the first aspect, wherein the battery cell or battery device is used to store electrical energy or provide electrical energy.
[0021] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description
[0022] 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.
[0023] Figure 1 This application provides structural schematic diagrams of vehicles for some embodiments; Figure 2This application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery cell assembly in a battery device according to some embodiments; Figure 3 This application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery device according to some embodiments; Figure 4 This application provides an exploded structural diagram of a single battery cell for some embodiments. Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of a battery cell provided for some embodiments of this application; Figure 6 A partial cross-sectional view of a battery cell provided for other embodiments of this application; Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of a battery cell provided for other embodiments of this application; Figure 8 A partial cross-sectional view of a battery cell provided for some embodiments of this application; Figure 9 A partial top view of an insulating component in a battery cell provided for some embodiments of this application; Figure 10 A partial top view of an insulating component in a battery cell provided for other embodiments of this application; Figure 11 A partial top view of an insulating component in a battery cell, provided for further embodiments of this application; Figure 12 A partial top view of an insulating component in a battery cell provided for some embodiments of this application; Figure 13 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a battery cell provided in some embodiments of this application.
[0024] The reference numerals in the accompanying drawings for the specific embodiments are as follows: 1000, Vehicle; 100, Battery unit; 200, Controller; 300, Motor; 400, Battery cell assembly; 1. Battery cell; 2. Housing; 210. First housing; 220. Second housing; 10. Outer shell; 110. End cap; 120. Housing; 11. First wall; 101. Inlet; 20. Electrode assembly; 21. Tab; 30. Insulating component; 31. Insulating body; 32. Liquid injection section; 302. Opening gap; 3021. Sub-opening gap; 3022. First sub-opening gap; 3023. Second sub-opening gap; 303. Connecting intersection; 3001. First region; 3002. Second region; 3003. Third region; 3004. Fourth region; 40. Sealing pin; 50. Electrode terminal; X, the first direction. Detailed Implementation
[0025] 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.
[0026] 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.
[0027] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a particular 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 in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments.
[0028] 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.
[0029] 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 C can represent: A existing alone, A and C existing simultaneously, or C existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.
[0030] 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.
[0031] In this application, "multiple" means two or more (including two).
[0032] Currently, judging from market trends, the application of battery devices is becoming increasingly widespread. Battery devices are not only used in energy storage power systems such as hydropower, thermal power, wind power, and solar power plants, but also widely applied in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric cars, as well as in aerospace and other fields. With the continuous expansion of the application areas of battery devices, the market demand is also constantly increasing.
[0033] In this embodiment of the application, the battery cell can be a secondary battery, which refers to a battery cell that can be recharged to activate the active materials and continue to be used after the battery cell has been discharged.
[0034] 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.
[0035] In related technologies, after the electrolyte filling of a battery cell is completed, electrolyte overflow often occurs. This not only results in the loss of electrolyte but may also cause electrolyte to overflow into gaps such as electrode terminals, thus affecting the performance of the battery cell.
[0036] Based on the above-mentioned technical problems, this application provides a battery cell, which includes a casing, an electrode assembly, and an insulating component. The casing has a first wall with a liquid injection port. At least a portion of the electrode assembly is housed within the casing. Along a first direction, the insulating component is disposed on the side of the first wall facing the electrode assembly. The insulating component includes an insulating body and a liquid injection portion, which is connected to the insulating body. In a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction, the orthographic projection of the liquid injection portion at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the liquid injection port. The liquid injection portion has an opening gap that connects the two opposite sides of the insulating component along the first direction. The liquid injection portion is configured to undergo elastic deformation under external force to adjust the opening area of the opening gap. The battery cell also includes a sealing pin disposed on the first wall and sealing the liquid injection port and the opening gap.
[0037] By providing an injection section on the insulating component, and ensuring that the orthographic projection of the injection section along the first direction at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the injection port on the first wall along the first direction, the injection tool can apply a certain force to the injection section through the injection port to inject electrolyte into the battery cell. When the injection tool pushes against the injection section, the injection section deforms, increasing the opening area of the opening gap. The electrolyte can then be smoothly injected into the battery cell through the opening gap. After injection, the injection tool removes pressure from the injection section, causing the injection section to spring back and reduce the opening area of the opening gap. This effectively reduces the possibility of electrolyte overflowing from the opening gap within the battery cell, thereby effectively reducing electrolyte loss. Furthermore, after injection, sealing the injection port and opening gap with a sealing pin effectively prevents electrolyte from overflowing from the injection port, ensuring reliable operation of the battery cell and improving its performance.
[0038] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are applicable to various battery devices or electrical equipment 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.
[0039] It should be understood that the technical solutions described in the embodiments of this application are not limited to the devices described above, but can also be applied to all devices that use battery devices. However, for the sake of brevity, the following embodiments are all illustrated using electric vehicles as examples.
[0040] For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle 1000 according to one embodiment 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. The vehicle 1000 may contain a motor 300, a controller 200, and a battery device 100. The controller 200 controls the battery device 100 to supply power to the motor 300. For example, 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's electrical system, such as meeting the power requirements for starting, navigation, and operation of the vehicle 1000. In another embodiment 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, replacing or partially replacing gasoline or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.
[0041] Please see Figure 2The battery device 100 mentioned in the embodiments of this application may include one or more battery cell assemblies 400 for providing voltage and capacity. The battery cell assembly 400 may include a plurality of battery cells 1, which are connected in series, parallel or mixed connection via a busbar.
[0042] In some embodiments, the battery cell assembly 400 is typically formed by arranging multiple battery cells 1.
[0043] As an example, the battery cell assembly 400 can be a battery module, which is formed by arranging and fixing multiple battery cells 1 to form an independent module. As an example, the battery module can be formed by binding multiple battery cells 1 together with cable ties.
[0044] Please see Figure 3 As an example, the battery cell assembly 400 can be a battery module, and the battery cell assembly 400 can be housed in the housing 2 by fixing the battery module in the housing 2.
[0045] As an example, the battery cell assembly 400 can also be housed in the housing 2 by directly fixing multiple battery cells 1 to the housing 2.
[0046] As an example, the housing 2 may include a first housing 210 and a second housing 220. The first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are fastened together to form a cavity, thereby creating a closed space inside the housing 2 to house the battery cell assembly 400. Here, "closed" refers to covering or closing, which can be either sealed or unsealed. The first housing 210 may be a top cover or a bottom plate.
[0047] As an example, the housing 2 may include a top cover, a frame, and a bottom plate. The top cover and the bottom plate are respectively connected to the frame, so that the interior of the housing 2 forms an enclosed space to accommodate the battery cell assembly 400.
[0048] In some embodiments, the housing 2 may be part of the chassis structure of the vehicle 1000. For example, a portion of the housing 2 may be at least a portion of the floor of the vehicle 1000, or a portion of the housing 2 may be at least a portion of the crossbeams and longitudinal beams of the vehicle 1000.
[0049] The box 2 can be a simple three-dimensional structure such as a cuboid or a cylinder, or it can be a complex three-dimensional structure composed of simple three-dimensional structures such as cuboids or cylinders. This application embodiment does not limit this.
[0050] Specifically, the housing 2 can be a metal shell made of alloy steel, alloy aluminum, etc., or a composite material shell made of metal and polypropylene, etc.
[0051] Please see Figure 4 In some embodiments, the battery cell 1 includes a housing 10 and an electrode assembly 20.
[0052] The outer casing 10 is a component used to form the internal environment of the battery cell 1. The internal environment formed by the casing can be used to house the electrode assembly 20, as well as the electrolyte and other components. Optionally, the outer casing 10 can be, but is not limited to, made of metallic or non-metallic materials. For example, metallic materials can be copper, aluminum, or stainless steel; non-metallic materials can be polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyvinyl chloride.
[0053] For example, the outer shell 10 can be a steel shell, an aluminum shell, a plastic shell (such as a polypropylene shell), a composite metal shell (such as a copper-aluminum composite shell), or an aluminum-plastic film, etc.
[0054] In some embodiments, the housing 10 can be a sealed structure or a non-sealed structure. As an example, when the housing 10 is a non-sealed structure, the housing 10 serves to protect the electrode assembly 20.
[0055] In some embodiments, the housing 10 may include a housing 120 and an end cap 110. The housing 120 has an internal receiving space for accommodating the electrode assembly 20. The housing 120 has an opening, and the end cap 110 is connected to the housing 120 to seal the opening. The housing 120 may have one or more openings. The end cap 110 may also have one or more.
[0056] The housing 120 can have various shapes, such as a cuboid or prism structure. Similarly, the end cap 110 can have various structures, such as a plate-like structure or a hollow structure with one end open. For example, in... Figure 4 In the middle, the shell 120 has a cuboid structure, and the end cap 110 has a plate-like structure.
[0057] Electrode assembly 20 is a component in the battery cell 1 where an electrochemical reaction occurs, and the housing 120 may contain one or more electrode assemblies 20.
[0058] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 20 may be cylindrical, flat, or polygonal in shape.
[0059] The electrode assembly 20 can be a wound structure, a stacked structure, or a hybrid structure of wound and stacked.
[0060] The electrode assembly 20 includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator, with the separator positioned between the negative and positive electrodes. During the charging and discharging process of the battery cell 1, 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, serves to prevent short circuits between the positive and negative electrodes while allowing active ions to pass through.
[0061] Please see Figure 4 In some embodiments, the battery cell 1 further includes electrode terminals 50. Electrode terminals 50 may be provided on the end cap 110 or the housing 120. The electrode terminals 50 can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly 20 for outputting or inputting electrical energy into the battery cell 1. The electrode terminals 50 can be electrically connected to the electrode assembly 20 by connecting to tabs 21. The tabs 21 electrically connected to the electrode terminals 50 can be either positive or negative tabs.
[0062] In this application, the battery cell 1 may include, but is not limited to, one of a lithium-ion battery cell, a sodium-ion battery cell, or a magnesium-ion battery cell.
[0063] Please refer to the following: Figures 4 to 10 According to an embodiment of this application, a battery cell 1 is provided, including a housing 10, an electrode assembly 20, and an insulating member 30. The housing 10 has a first wall 11, and the first wall 11 has an injection port 101. At least a portion of the electrode assembly 20 is accommodated within the housing 10. Along a first direction X, the insulating member 30 is disposed on the side of the first wall 11 facing the electrode assembly 20. The insulating member 30 includes an insulating body 31 and an injection portion 32. The injection portion 32 is connected to the insulating body 31. In a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction X, the orthographic projection of the injection portion 32 at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the injection port 101. The injection portion 32 has an opening gap 302, which connects the two opposite sides of the insulating member 30 along the first direction X. The injection portion 32 is configured to undergo elastic deformation under external force to adjust the opening area of the opening gap 302. The battery cell 1 also includes a sealing pin 40, which is disposed on the first wall 11 and seals the injection port 101 and the opening gap 302.
[0064] The first wall 11 can be a wall of the end cap 110 or a wall of the housing 120. As an example, the end cap 110 has a first wall 11. The first direction X refers to the arrangement direction of the insulating member 30 and the first wall 11, or it can be the thickness direction of the first wall 11, or the height direction of the battery cell 1.
[0065] The insulating component 30 is located between the first wall 11 and the electrode assembly 20 along the first direction X, so as to achieve insulation isolation between the first wall 11 and the electrode assembly 20, reduce the possibility of direct contact between the two and causing internal short circuit, thereby improving the reliability of the battery cell 1.
[0066] Optionally, the insulating element 30 can be connected to the first wall 11 by welding, bonding or heat fusion, or by fasteners. Alternatively, the insulating element 30 can be affixed to the first wall 11.
[0067] The insulating component 30 includes an insulating body 31 and an injection part 32 connected together. The insulating body 31 provides a mounting carrier for the injection part 32. The insulating body 31 may have a mounting hole, and the injection part 32 is disposed in the mounting hole to connect with the insulating body 31. Alternatively, the insulating body 31 and the injection part 32 may be an integral structure. Optionally, the insulating body 31 is connected to the first wall 11, and the injection part 32 may be spaced apart from the first wall 11 or fitted together.
[0068] "At least partially overlapping" means that the orthographic projection of the liquid injection section 32 along the first direction X and the orthographic projection of the liquid injection port 101 along the first direction X have an overlapping portion. This overlap can be complete or partial. By setting it in this way, the liquid injection tool can act on the liquid injection section 32 through the liquid injection port 101 to smoothly perform liquid injection operation into the battery cell 1.
[0069] The injection section 32 is a structure that can deform under external force and automatically spring back to its original position when the external force is removed. The opening gap 302 is a structure that can increase the opening area when the injection section 32 deforms and decrease the opening area when it springs back to its original position. Optionally, the opening gap 302 can be a hole provided on the injection section 32.
[0070] The injection section 32 has an initial state and a deformed state. The injection section 32 is configured to switch between the initial state and the deformed state under the action of external force. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 5 to 10 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 9 This can be understood as a schematic diagram of the injection section 32 in its initial state. Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 10 This can be understood as a schematic diagram of the injection section 32 in a deformed state. In the initial state, the orthogonal projection area of the opening gap 302 along the first direction X is S1. In the deformed state, the orthogonal projection area of the opening gap 302 along the first direction X is S2, where S2 > S1.
[0071] When injecting electrolyte into the battery cell 1, the injection tool can pass through the injection port 101 to push against the injection section 32. The injection section 32 switches from the initial state to the deformed state, so that the injection section 32 is deformed under pressure under the action of external force and moves towards the electrode assembly 20. At this time, the opening gap 302 increases the opening area with the deformation of the injection section 32 to increase the injection space of electrolyte. The electrolyte can be injected into the interior of the battery cell 1 through the opening gap 302. After the injection is completed, the injection tool removes the force on the injection section 32, and the injection section 32 switches from the deformed state to the initial state. The injection section 32 automatically rebounds and resets, moving towards the first wall 11. At this time, the opening gap 302 decreases the opening area with the rebound of the injection section 32 to reduce the possibility of electrolyte overflow from the battery cell 1 through the opening gap 302.
[0072] Optionally, in the initial state, the projected area of the opening gap 302 along the first direction X is smaller than the projected area of the injection port 101 along the first direction X.
[0073] Optionally, in the initial state, the ratio of the projected area of the opening gap 302 along the first direction X to the projected area of the injection port 101 along the first direction X is between 1 / 1000 and 1 / 100.
[0074] In related technologies, battery cells have through holes on their insulating components that are about the same size as the filling port to meet the filling requirements. However, after the filling is completed and the filling tool is removed, the electrolyte can easily overflow through the large through holes on the insulating components, resulting in a decrease in the electrolyte content in the battery cell. Furthermore, the overflowing electrolyte may contaminate the surface of the battery cell or even cause electrical connection problems.
[0075] The embodiments in this application differ. In this embodiment, an injection section 32 is provided on the insulating member 30, and the orthographic projection of the injection section 32 along the first direction X at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the injection port 101 provided on the first wall 11 along the first direction X. This allows the injection tool to apply a certain force to the injection section 32 through the injection port 101 to inject electrolyte into the battery cell 1. When the injection tool pushes against the injection section 32, the injection section 32 deforms to increase the opening area of the opening gap 302, allowing the electrolyte to be smoothly injected into the battery cell 1 through the opening gap 302. After the injection is completed, the injection tool is removed from the injection section 32. The pressure causes the electrolyte injection section 32 to spring back and reset, reducing the opening area of the opening gap 302. This effectively reduces the possibility of electrolyte overflow from the opening gap 302 within the battery cell 1, thereby effectively reducing electrolyte loss within the battery cell 1 and ensuring sufficient electrolyte within the battery cell 1. It also effectively reduces the possibility of electrolyte corrosion of the first wall 11 causing electrical connection problems in the battery cell 1, thus improving the performance of the battery cell 1. Furthermore, after electrolyte injection, the sealing pin 40 seals the injection port 101 and the opening gap 302, effectively preventing electrolyte from overflowing from the injection port 101, ensuring reliable operation of the battery cell 1.
[0076] In other words, when pushed by the injection tool, the injection part 32 can deform to increase the area of the opening gap 302 to meet the injection requirements. After the injection is completed and the injection tool is removed, the injection part 32 can rebound to reduce the area of the opening gap 302 or restore the initial area to reduce the amount of electrolyte overflow.
[0077] It should be noted that when the liquid injection section 32 is not subjected to external force, the opening gap 302 has a very small opening area, which can effectively block the electrolyte from passing through, but allows gas to pass through, so that the gas in the battery cell 1 can be discharged smoothly, balance the gas pressure in the battery cell 1, and help reduce the problem of liquid overflow in the battery cell 1 while taking into account the problem of gas venting in the battery cell 1.
[0078] The sealing pin 40 can abut against the inner wall of the injection port 101 to block it. Optionally, the sealing pin 40 can pass through the opening gap 302 to deform the injection part 32 to block the opening gap 302, which helps to improve the sealing effect of the sealing pin 40.
[0079] Optionally, the liquid injection part 32 and the insulating body 31 can be an integral structure, or the liquid injection part 32 and the insulating body 31 can be provided separately and then connected and assembled. The two can be connected into one body by welding, bonding, hot melt connection and fastener connection, which helps to reduce the processing difficulty and improve the diversity and flexibility of the insulating part 30.
[0080] Optionally, the liquid injection part 32 and the insulating body 31 may be made of the same material or different materials.
[0081] In some embodiments, the opening gap 302 may include a plurality of spaced opening holes. When injecting electrolyte into the battery cell 1, the injection tool may pass through the injection port 101 and push against the injection part 32 to increase the area of the plurality of opening holes. At this time, the injection tool will not pass through the opening gap 302, and the electrolyte can flow into the battery cell 1 through the plurality of opening holes.
[0082] Please see Figure 9 and Figure 11 In some embodiments, the opening gap 302 includes a plurality of sub-opening gaps 3021, which are interconnected.
[0083] The interconnected sub-opening gaps 3021 make it easier for the injection section 32 to deform when pushed by the injection tool, thereby reducing the amount of external force required to increase the opening area of the opening gaps 302. This allows it to adapt to injection operations with different forces, which not only improves the versatility of the injection section 32, but also effectively reduces fatigue damage to the injection section 32 during the pushing process of the injection tool, thus improving the reliability of the injection section 32. At the same time, after the injection is completed and the injection tool is removed, the multiple interconnected sub-opening gaps 3021 can more stably rebound and shrink to form a structure with a smaller opening area, which further improves the anti-overflow effect of the injection section 32, thereby better improving the performance of the battery cell 1.
[0084] Furthermore, by setting it up in the above manner, the gas generated inside the battery cell 1 after the liquid injection is completed can be discharged outward through multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 during operation, which can increase the exhaust path and improve the exhaust efficiency of the battery cell 1. This helps to reduce the possibility of risks caused by excessive internal gas pressure in the battery cell 1, thereby helping to better improve the performance of the battery cell 1.
[0085] Furthermore, by setting it up in the above manner, when injecting electrolyte into the battery cell 1, the injection tool can pass through the injection port 101 and push against the injection section 32. At this time, the injection tool can pass through the intersection of multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 to inject electrolyte, which is beneficial to improve the injection efficiency of the battery cell 1 and also reduces the possibility of electrolyte residue on the injection section 32, which is beneficial to further improve the performance of the battery cell 1.
[0086] Optionally, the multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 are interconnected and have one connection point 303, or the multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 are interconnected and have two or more connection points 303.
[0087] Please see Figure 9 and Figure 11 In some embodiments, the connection point 303 of the plurality of sub-opening gaps 3021 is located at the geometric center of the injection section 32.
[0088] In other words, the multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 are interconnected and have a connection point 303. This connection point 303 is located at the geometric center of the injection section 32. For example, when the injection section 32 is circular, the connection point 303 of the multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 is located at the center of the injection section 32.
[0089] By configuring it in the above manner, the deformation of the area separated by the multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 in the injection section 32 is more uniform when it is subjected to force. This is beneficial to improving the uniformity of force on the injection section 32, thereby improving the reliability of the injection section 32 and the reliability of the injection section 32 when it is reset. In turn, it is beneficial to reduce the possibility of electrolyte overflow from the multiple sub-opening gaps 3021, thereby improving the performance of the battery cell 1.
[0090] like Figure 9 and Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, the connection point 303 of the plurality of sub-opening gaps 3021 is located at the geometric center of each sub-opening gap 3021.
[0091] In other words, multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 are interconnected and have a connection point 303. This connection point 303 is located at the geometric center of each sub-opening gap 3021. For example, when the sub-opening gap 3021 is elongated, the connection point 303 is located at the 1 / 2 position of the sub-opening gap 3021.
[0092] By configuring it in the above manner, the deformation of the area separated by the multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 in the injection section 32 is more uniform when it is subjected to force. This is beneficial to improving the uniformity of force on the injection section 32, thereby improving the reliability of the injection section 32 and the reliability of the injection section 32 when it is reset. In turn, it is beneficial to reduce the possibility of electrolyte overflow from the multiple sub-opening gaps 3021, thereby improving the performance of the battery cell 1.
[0093] In some embodiments, in a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction X, the orthographic projection of the connecting intersection 303 of a plurality of sub-opening gaps 3021 at least partially overlaps with the geometric center of the orthographic projection of the injection port 101.
[0094] In other words, the multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 are interconnected and have a connecting intersection point 303. The orthographic projection of this connecting intersection point 303 along the first direction X at least partially overlaps with the geometric center of the orthographic projection of the injection port 101 along the first direction X. For example, when the injection port 101 is a circular hole, the connecting intersection point 303 is located on the axis of the injection port 101.
[0095] By configuring the above method, when the injection tool passes through the injection port 101 and pushes against the injection section 32, it can accurately act on the position of the connecting intersection 303 of multiple sub-opening gaps 3021, so that each sub-opening gap 3021 can open and close synchronously. This allows for a more uniform and rapid adjustment of the opening area of the opening gaps 302, thereby improving the uniformity of force on the injection section 32. Furthermore, when the injection tool pushes against the connecting intersection 303 of multiple sub-opening gaps 3021, the opening area of the opening gaps 302 can also be increased more quickly under the action of the injection tool, forming a channel for the injection tool to pass through. This is beneficial to improving the efficiency and smoothness of electrolyte injection. After the injection is completed and the injection tool is withdrawn, the opening area of multiple sub-opening gaps 3021 can be reduced synchronously, improving the efficiency and reliability of the injection section 32 during reset. This is beneficial to further improve the uniformity and stability of the deformation and reset of the injection section 32, thereby improving the reliability and performance of the battery cell 1.
[0096] Please see Figure 9 In some embodiments, the plurality of sub-opening gaps 3021 include a first sub-opening gap 3022 and a second sub-opening gap 3023, wherein the extending direction of the first sub-opening gap 3022 is perpendicular to the extending direction of the second sub-opening gap 3023.
[0097] This configuration facilitates the machining of the first sub-opening gap 3022 and the second sub-opening gap 3023 on the injection section 32.
[0098] The first sub-opening gap 3022 and the second sub-opening gap 3023 are perpendicularly arranged to form a connecting intersection point 303. Optionally, this connecting intersection point 303 is located at the end of the first sub-opening gap 3022 along its own extension direction, and / or, this connecting intersection point 303 is located at the end of the second sub-opening gap 3023 along its own extension direction. Optionally, the connecting intersection point 303 is located at the geometric center of the first sub-opening gap 3022 and also at the geometric center of the second sub-opening gap 3023.
[0099] For example, this connecting intersection 303 divides the first sub-opening gap 3022 into a first part and a second part along its own extension direction, and divides the second sub-opening gap 3023 into a third part and a fourth part along its own extension direction. By setting it in this way, the orthogonal projection of the opening gap 302 along the first direction X forms a cross structure. When the liquid injection tool pushes against the liquid injection part 32, the liquid injection part 32 can deform more quickly, so that the opening gap 302 can increase the opening area more quickly, which is beneficial to improving the liquid injection efficiency of the battery cell 1.
[0100] Optionally, the length of the first sub-opening gap 3022 along its own extending direction is equal to the length of the second sub-opening gap 3023 along its own extending direction; Optionally, along the extending direction of the first sub-opening gap 3022, the length of the first part is equal to the length of the second part, and along the extending direction of the second sub-opening gap 3023, the length of the third part is equal to the length of the fourth part; Optionally, the lengths of the first part, the second part, the third part, and the fourth part along the extending direction of the second sub-opening gap 3023 are all equal.
[0101] Optionally, the connecting intersection 303 formed between the first sub-opening gap 3022 and the second sub-opening gap 3023 is located at the geometric center of the first sub-opening gap 3022 and also at the geometric center of the second sub-opening gap 3023. Furthermore, in the projection plane perpendicular to the first direction X, the orthographic projection of this connecting intersection 303 overlaps with the geometric center of the orthographic projection of the injection port 101. With this configuration, when the injection tool pushes against the injection part 32, the injection tool can directly act on the connecting intersection 303. This not only enables the injection part 32 to deform more quickly and the opening gap 302 to increase the opening area more quickly, thereby improving the injection efficiency of the battery cell 1, but also helps to improve the uniformity of the deformation and reset of the injection part 32, thus improving the anti-overflow effect of the injection part 32.
[0102] Specifically, such as Figure 4 and Figure 8As shown, the first sub-opening gap 3022 and the second sub-opening gap 3023 can evenly divide the injection section 32 into four deformation regions, namely the first region 3001, the second region 3002, the third region 3003, and the fourth region 3004. When the injection tool pushes against the connecting intersection 303, the first region 3001, the second region 3002, the third region 3003, and the fourth region 3004 can simultaneously bend and deform towards the electrode assembly 20, so that the opening gap 302 can quickly increase the opening area to form a channel for the injection tool to pass through. When the injection is completed and the injection tool is withdrawn, the first... Regions 3001, 3002, 3003, and 3004 can synchronously reposition themselves toward the first wall 11, so that the opening gap 302 can quickly reduce the opening area. This is beneficial to further improve the uniformity and stability of the deformation and repositioning of the liquid injection section 32, and also to improve the smoothness of liquid injection into the battery cell 1. In addition, by setting it in the above manner, the liquid injection section 32 can be subjected to uniform force when it deforms, and it is not easy to generate local stress concentration. This helps to reduce the possibility of fatigue damage to the liquid injection section 32, thereby improving the service life of the liquid injection section 32 and thus improving the reliability of the battery cell 1.
[0103] In some embodiments, in a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction X, the extended shape of the orthographic projection of the opening gap 302 includes at least one of a dot shape, a straight line shape, and an arc shape.
[0104] like Figure 12 As shown, the orthogonal projection of the opening gap 302 along the first direction X is dot-shaped, so that after the injection tool is pushed against the injection part 32, the electrolyte can flow in through the dot-shaped opening gap 302. This design helps to reduce the deformation rate of the injection part 32, reduce the risk of irreversible damage to the injection part 32 due to excessive deformation, and improve the reliability of the injection part 32's reset after injection, thereby improving the anti-overflow effect of the injection part 32 and thus better improving the performance of the battery cell 1.
[0105] When the opening gap 302 includes multiple sub-opening gaps 3021, optionally, at least one sub-opening gap 3021 may have a point structure as its orthographic projection along the first direction X. The point structure may include points and is not limited to shapes such as circles, triangles, and ellipses.
[0106] like Figure 9 and Figure 11 As shown, the orthographic projection of the opening gap 302 along the first direction X is a straight line structure, or the orthographic projection of the opening gap 302 along the first direction X can also be an arc shape. An arc shape refers to an arc structure with a certain curvature. By setting it in this way, after the liquid injection tool is pushed against the liquid injection part 32, the liquid injection tool can pass through the opening gap 302 to perform liquid injection, which is beneficial to improving the liquid injection efficiency of the battery cell 1.
[0107] When the opening gap 302 includes multiple sub-opening gaps 3021, optionally, at least one sub-opening gap 3021 has a straight line or an arc shape in its orthographic projection along the first direction X.
[0108] The battery cell 1 provided in some embodiments of this application has an opening gap 302 on its liquid injection part 32 that can be any one of the following shapes: dot-shaped, straight-line-shaped, arc-shaped, or a combination of multiple shapes. This is beneficial to improving the diversity and flexibility of the liquid injection part 32, thereby improving the flexibility and diversity of battery cell 1 production.
[0109] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of the injection portion 32 extends in a straight line or arc shape along a direction perpendicular to the first direction X.
[0110] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the injection section 32 extends linearly along the orthographic projection of the direction perpendicular to the first direction X. In other words, the injection section 32 has a flat plate structure, which is convenient for processing and manufacturing, and can also reduce the space occupied by the injection section 32 and improve the space utilization rate of the injection section 32.
[0111] like Figure 4 and Figure 13 As shown, the injection section 32 can also extend in an arc shape when projected along a direction perpendicular to the first direction X. That is, the injection section 32 is an arc-shaped plate structure. It can be convex toward the first wall 11 along the first direction X, or it can be convex toward the side away from the first wall 11 along the first direction X. This design makes it easier for the injection section 32 to undergo elastic deformation when pushed by the injection tool, which facilitates injection. In addition, the arc-shaped structure design can also improve the structural strength of the injection section 32, reduce the risk of plastic deformation during use, and improve the reliability of the injection section 32.
[0112] The battery cell 1 provided in some embodiments of this application has an injection section 32 that can be a flat plate structure or an arc-shaped plate structure, which is beneficial to improving the diversity and flexibility of the injection section 32, thereby improving the flexibility and diversity of battery cell 1 production.
[0113] Please see Figures 6 to 8 In some embodiments, along the first direction X, the thickness of the liquid injection portion 32 is less than or equal to the thickness of the insulating body 31.
[0114] By setting it in this way, the overall space occupied by the insulating component 30 can be effectively reduced, the internal space layout of the battery cell 1 can be optimized, which is conducive to improving the energy density of the battery cell 1. Furthermore, by making the liquid injection part 32 thinner, its deformation ability can be enhanced, making it easier to deform under external force and easier to rebound and reset, thereby improving the anti-overflow effect of the liquid injection part 32 and thus better improving the performance of the battery cell 1.
[0115] In addition, the thicker insulating body 31 can provide more stable support for the liquid injection part 32, which is conducive to improving the connection strength between the insulating body 31 and the liquid injection part 32, thereby reducing the possibility of the liquid injection part 32 breaking and thus improving the reliability of the liquid injection part 32.
[0116] In some embodiments, along the first direction X, the ratio of the thickness of the liquid injection portion 32 to the thickness of the insulating body 31 is between 1 / 10 and 4 / 5.
[0117] Optionally, along the first direction X, the ratio of the thickness of the liquid injection portion 32 to the thickness of the insulating body 31 is between 1 / 5 and 1 / 2.
[0118] like Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the thickness of the injection portion 32 along the first direction X is H, where 0.1 mm ≤ H ≤ 1 mm.
[0119] As an example, the value of H can be, but is not limited to, 0.1mm, 0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.7mm, 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1mm, etc.
[0120] If the value of H is set too small, i.e., H < 0.1 mm, the injection part 32 will be too thin, making it easy to break or fail under external force and unable to rebound. If the value of H is set too large, i.e., H > 1 mm, the injection part 32 will be too thick, which may make it difficult to deform under external force.
[0121] Therefore, by setting the value of H between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, including the two endpoint values of 0.1 mm and 1 mm, the thickness of the injection part 32 is moderate, so that it has sufficient elastic deformation capability, and the possibility of deformation under external force due to excessive thickness is reduced, which is conducive to improving the effectiveness of elastic deformation of the injection part 32.
[0122] Optionally, 0.15mm ≤ H ≤ 0.8mm.
[0123] Optionally, 0.2mm ≤ H ≤ 0.5mm.
[0124] In some embodiments, the liquid injection section 32 and the insulating body 31 are integrally formed.
[0125] By integrating the liquid injection section 32 with the insulating component 30, there is no need to add an additional independent sealing component. This also reduces assembly steps and assembly errors, which helps to reduce manufacturing costs and improve production efficiency. Furthermore, the absence of assembly gaps between the two components helps to improve the connection stability and sealing reliability between the liquid injection section 32 and the insulating body 31, further reducing the possibility of electrolyte leakage.
[0126] According to some embodiments of this application, this application also provides a battery device 100, including a plurality of battery cells 1 provided in any of the above embodiments.
[0127] Because the battery cell 1 provided in this application embodiment can effectively reduce electrolyte overflow, it is beneficial to improve the performance of the battery cell 1, and therefore, it is beneficial to improve the performance of the battery device 100.
[0128] According to some embodiments of this application, this application also provides an electrical device, including the battery device 100 provided in any of the above embodiments, or including the battery cell 1 provided in any of the above embodiments, wherein the battery cell 1 or the battery device 100 is used to store electrical energy or provide electrical energy.
[0129] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application.
[0130] Please refer to the following: Figures 4 to 12 According to some embodiments of this application, this application provides a battery cell 1, including a housing 10, an electrode assembly 20, an insulating component 30, and a sealing pin 40.
[0131] The outer casing 10 has a first wall 11 with a liquid injection port 101. The electrode assembly 20 is housed within the outer casing 10. Along the first direction X, an insulating member 30 is disposed on the side of the first wall 11 facing the electrode assembly 20. The insulating member 30 includes an insulating body 31 and a liquid injection part 32. The liquid injection part 32 and the insulating body 31 are integrally formed. In a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction X, the orthographic projection of the liquid injection part 32 overlaps with the orthographic projection of the liquid injection port 101. The liquid injection part 32 has an opening gap 302, which connects the two opposite sides of the insulating member 30 along the first direction X. The liquid injection part 32 can undergo elastic deformation under external force to adjust the opening area of the opening gap 302. A sealing nail 40 is disposed on the first wall 11 and seals the liquid injection port 101 and the opening gap 302.
[0132] The opening gap 302 includes a plurality of sub-opening gaps 3021, and the plurality of sub-opening gaps 3021 include a first sub-opening gap 3022 and a second sub-opening gap 3023. The extending direction of the first sub-opening gap 3022 is perpendicular to the extending direction of the second sub-opening gap 3023. The intersection point 303 of the first sub-opening gap 3022 and the second sub-opening gap 3023 is located at the geometric center of the injection section 32 and also at the geometric center of each sub-opening gap 3021. Furthermore, in a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction X, the orthographic projection of the intersection point 303 of the first sub-opening gap 3022 and the second sub-opening gap 3023 at least partially overlaps with the geometric center of the orthographic projection of the injection port 101.
[0133] In the projection plane perpendicular to the first direction X, the extended shape of the orthographic projection of the opening gap 302 includes a straight line or an arc shape. Along the direction perpendicular to the first direction X, the orthographic projection of the liquid injection part 32 extends in a straight line or an arc shape. Along the first direction X, the thickness of the liquid injection part 32 is less than or equal to the thickness of the insulating body 31. The thickness of the liquid injection part 32 along the first direction X is H, where 0.1mm≤H≤1mm.
[0134] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other.
[0135] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended 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 they can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. However, these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
Claims
1. A battery cell, characterized in that, include: The outer casing has a first wall, and the first wall has a liquid injection port; An electrode assembly, at least a portion of which is housed within the housing; An insulating element, along a first direction, is disposed on the side of the first wall facing the electrode assembly. The insulating element includes an insulating body and a liquid injection portion, the liquid injection portion being connected to the insulating body. In a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction, the orthographic projection of the liquid injection portion at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the liquid injection port. The injection section is provided with an opening gap, and the injection section is configured to undergo elastic deformation under external force to adjust the opening area of the opening gap; The battery cell also includes a sealing pin, which is disposed on the first wall and seals the injection port and the opening gap.
2. The battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The opening gap includes multiple sub-opening gaps, which are interconnected.
3. The battery cell according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting intersection of the plurality of said sub-opening gaps is located at the geometric center of said injection section; And / or, the connecting intersection of the plurality of said sub-opening gaps is located at the geometric center of each said sub-opening gap; And / or, in a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction, the orthographic projection of the connecting intersection of the plurality of said sub-opening gaps at least partially overlaps with the geometric center of the orthographic projection of the injection port.
4. The battery cell according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of sub-opening gaps include a first sub-opening gap and a second sub-opening gap, wherein the extending direction of the first sub-opening gap is perpendicular to the extending direction of the second sub-opening gap.
5. The battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, Within a projection plane perpendicular to the first direction, the extended shape of the orthographic projection of the opening gap includes at least one of a dot shape, a straight line shape, and an arc shape.
6. The battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along a direction perpendicular to the first direction, the orthographic projection of the injection portion extends in a straight line or an arc.
7. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Along the first direction, the thickness of the liquid injection portion is less than or equal to the thickness of the insulating body; And / or, the thickness of the injection portion along the first direction is H, where 0.1 mm ≤ H ≤ 1 mm.
8. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The liquid injection section and the insulating body are integrally formed.
9. A battery device, characterized in that, It includes multiple battery cells according to any one of claims 1 to 8.
10. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, It includes the battery device according to claim 9, or the battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the battery cell or the battery device is used to store electrical energy or provide electrical energy.