Single cell and battery pack

Abstract

The application provides a single battery and a battery pack, and relates to the technical field of batteries. The single battery comprises a shell, a top cover, an electrode assembly, a pole and an insulation layer. The shell has a containing cavity, the containing cavity has an opening at one end along a first direction, the top cover is connected to the shell and closes the opening, and the electrode assembly is arranged in the containing cavity. The pole is arranged in the top cover, at least part of the pole is located on one side of the electrode assembly along a second direction and is electrically connected to the electrode assembly. The insulation layer covers the outer circumferential surface of the electrode assembly, and a first gap is arranged between the insulation layer and the shell in the second direction. In the single battery of the application, the electrode assembly is fixed below the top cover through the pole, and the first gap arranged between the insulation layer and the shell makes the electrode assembly not directly contact the inner wall of the shell, thereby prolonging the transmission path of external forces to the electrode assembly and reducing the external forces borne by the electrode assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a single cell battery and a battery pack. Background Technology

[0002] In a single cell, the electrode assembly is usually directly attached to the inside of the casing, or fixedly installed inside the casing with the help of a fixing bracket, and the relative positions of the two remain fixed.

[0003] When used for a long time or under extreme conditions such as collisions and vibrations, this design is prone to deformation of the shell, causing rigid contact between the electrode assembly and the inner wall of the shell, which can lead to damage to the electrode assembly, thermal runaway, or even safety accidents. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application aims to provide a single cell and a battery pack that at least solves the problem that deformation of the casing causes rigid contact between the electrode assembly and the inner wall of the casing, resulting in damage to the electrode assembly, thermal runaway, or even safety accidents.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application is implemented as follows: In a first aspect, embodiments of this application propose a single-cell battery having a first direction and a second direction that are perpendicular to each other, characterized in that it includes: a casing, a top cover, an electrode assembly, electrode posts, and an insulating layer; The housing has a receiving cavity with an opening at one end along a first direction. A top cover is connected to the housing and closes the opening. The electrode assembly is disposed inside the receiving cavity. The electrode post is inserted through the top cover, and at least a portion of the electrode post is located on one side of the electrode assembly along the second direction and is electrically connected to the electrode assembly; an insulating layer covers the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly, and a first gap is provided between the insulating layer and the housing in the second direction.

[0006] Optionally, the electrode assembly includes: a body and a tab, and the electrode post includes: a first conductive element and a second conductive element; The body has a tab on at least one side along the second direction, the body is electrically connected to the tab, and an insulating layer covers the body and the tab around the first direction; The first conductive element is inserted through the top cover, and the second conductive element is disposed in the receiving cavity. The second conductive element includes a first end and a second end opposite to each other. The first end is electrically connected to the first conductive element, and the second end is electrically connected to the electrode tab. In the second direction, the distance between the first end and the shell is the first distance, and the distance between the body and the shell is the second distance, with the first distance being greater than the second distance; And / or, in the second direction, the distance between the second end and the housing is a third distance, which is less than the second distance.

[0007] Optionally, the second conductive element includes a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and a bent portion; The first connecting part is located between the main body and the top cover, forming a first end. The second connecting part is located on the side of the main body facing the tab, forming a second end. One end of the bent part is connected to the first connecting part, and the other end of the bent part is connected to the second connecting part.

[0008] Optionally, the single cell may also include: a reinforcing structure; The first conductive element is at least partially exposed on the side of the top cover away from the receiving cavity, and the reinforcing structure is provided on the side of the top cover away from the receiving cavity, the reinforcing structure connecting the top cover and the exposed portion of the first conductive element.

[0009] Optionally, the individual battery cell has a third direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction respectively; the reinforcing structure includes: multiple reinforcing members; the reinforcing members are disposed on the side of the top cover away from the receiving cavity; Multiple reinforcing members are arranged at intervals along a third direction, and the reinforcing members connect the top cover and the exposed portion of the first conductive member.

[0010] Optionally, a second gap is provided between the insulating layer and the electrode tab along the second direction.

[0011] Optionally, the insulating layer also covers the surface of the electrode assembly facing away from the top cover; the housing includes a bottom wall opposite to the opening, and the insulating layer is attached to the bottom wall.

[0012] Optionally, the single cell has a third direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction respectively; the housing includes two first sidewalls arranged opposite each other along the second direction and two second sidewalls arranged opposite each other along the third direction, the outer surface area of ​​the first sidewall is smaller than the outer surface area of ​​the second sidewall, and the electrode tab is located on the side of the body facing the first sidewall.

[0013] Optionally, the housing also has a chamfered portion, which is located at the junction of the first sidewall and the second sidewall, and the two ends of the chamfered portion are respectively connected to the first sidewall and the second sidewall; In the second direction, the distance between the body and the shell is the second distance; the width of the chamfer in the second direction is less than the second distance.

[0014] Secondly, embodiments of this application propose a battery pack comprising: a single battery cell as described in any of the first aspects.

[0015] In the embodiments of this application, the electrode assembly is connected to the top cover via a terminal post and adopts an inward design to avoid contact with the inner wall of the housing, thereby avoiding damage that may be caused by rigid contact between the electrode assembly and the inner wall of the housing, improving the safety performance of the single battery. Furthermore, there is a first gap between the insulating layer covering the outer periphery of the electrode assembly and the housing, which can be used as a buffer space. The insulating layer can also prevent the electrode assembly from directly contacting the housing, further improving safety.

[0016] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a single battery provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 ; Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the structure of a single battery cell provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the pole assembly provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the shell provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pole post and top cover provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a single battery provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 ; Figure 7 A schematic diagram illustrating the principle of each spacing provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 8 for Figure 7 A partially enlarged schematic diagram of section A in the mid-section view; Figure 9 for Figure 8 The middle circle shows a partially enlarged schematic diagram of part B.

[0018] Figure label: 110 - Shell; 111 - Receiving cavity; 112 - Opening; 113 - Chamfered portion; 114 - First sidewall; 115 - Second sidewall; 116 - Bottom wall; 120 - Top Cover; 130 - Pole group; 131 - Body; 132 - Pole tab; 140 - pole post; 141 - first conductive element; 1411 - conductive block; 1412 - conductive post; 1413 - support base; 142 - second conductive element; 1421 - first end; 1422 - second end; 1423 - first connecting part; 1424 - second connecting part; 1425 - bending part; 150 - Insulation layer; 160 - Reinforcing section; 161 - Reinforcing component; X - First direction; Y - Second direction; Z - Third direction; d1 - First spacing; d2 - Second spacing; d3 - Third spacing; d4 - Fourth spacing. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The embodiments of this utility model will now be described in detail. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0020] The terms "first" and "second" in the specification and claims of this application may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0021] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0022] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" 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 mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0023] The single battery and battery pack provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, through specific embodiments and application scenarios.

[0024] like Figures 1-2 As shown, a single-cell battery provided according to some embodiments of this application has a first direction X and a second direction Y that are perpendicular to each other. The single-cell battery includes: a housing 110, a top cover 120, an electrode assembly 130, a terminal post 140, and an insulating layer 150. The housing 110 has a receiving cavity 111, and one end of the receiving cavity 111 along the first direction X has an opening 112. The top cover 120 is connected to the housing 110 and closes the opening 112. The electrode assembly 130 is disposed in the receiving cavity 111. The terminal post 140 passes through the top cover 120, and at least a portion of the terminal post 140 is located on one side of the electrode assembly 130 along the second direction Y and is electrically connected to the electrode assembly 130. The insulating layer 150 covers the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 130, and a first gap is provided between the insulating layer 150 and the housing 110 in the second direction Y.

[0025] In the embodiments of this application, the opening 112 of the accommodating cavity 111 is closed by the top cover 120 and connected to the housing 110. The electrode post 140 passes through the top cover 120 and extends at least partially to one side of the electrode assembly 130 along the second direction Y and is electrically connected to the electrode assembly 130. This allows the electrode post 140 to not only perform current conduction but also serve as a mechanical support structure to fix the electrode assembly 130 below the top cover 120. Simultaneously, the first gap between the insulating layer 150 and the housing 110 along the second direction Y prevents the electrode assembly 130 from directly contacting the inner wall of the housing 110. When a single battery cell encounters external impact or severe vibration, the transmission path of the external force is sequentially through the housing 110, top cover 120, electrode post 140, and finally to the electrode assembly 130. This extends the transmission path of the external force to the electrode assembly 130 and reduces the external force borne by the electrode assembly 130.

[0026] Specifically, the first direction X can be understood as the height direction of a single battery cell, and the second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X and can be understood as the length direction of a single battery cell. In addition, a single battery cell may also include a third direction Z, which is perpendicular to both the first direction X and the second direction Y and can be understood as the width direction of a single battery cell.

[0027] The housing 110 can adopt various structural forms according to the battery pack design requirements, including but not limited to cuboid, cylinder, prism or irregular structure, to adapt to the spatial layout requirements of the battery pack; the housing 110 is provided with a receiving cavity 111, the shape of which is the shape enclosed by the inner wall contour of the housing 110, which can be a rectangular cavity, cylindrical cavity or stepped cavity, etc. The size of the receiving cavity 111 is slightly larger than the outer contour of the electrode assembly 130, which not only reserves space for assembly gap and insulation layer 150, but also ensures the overall structural compactness.

[0028] The top cover 120 is located at the opening 112 of the receiving cavity 111 and connected to the housing 110 to seal the opening 112. The top cover 120 can be connected to the housing 110 by welding, laser sealing, mechanical pressing, or bolt fastening to achieve a seal on the opening 112. A sealing ring or injection structure can also be provided at the connection between the top cover 120 and the housing 110 to ensure airtightness and leak-proof performance, meeting the requirements for internal environmental stability and safety protection of the single battery cell.

[0029] Electrode assembly 130 is disposed within receiving cavity 111 and is formed by winding or stacking a positive electrode sheet, a negative electrode sheet, and a separator. After forming, positive and negative tabs are led out from electrode assembly 130, establishing electrical connections with electrode post 140 (as the positive electrode) and electrode post 140 (as the negative electrode), respectively. Electrode post 140 penetrates top cover 120 through a pre-set through hole, with an insulating sealing ring or ceramic insulating ring installed inside the hole to achieve electrical isolation and leakage prevention. Electrode post 140 can be connected to an external circuit. Part of electrode post 140 extends into receiving cavity 111, and the extended section of electrode post 140 extends to the side of electrode assembly 130 in the second direction Y by bending, lengthening, or setting connecting pieces, and forms an electrical connection with electrode assembly 130 using processes such as laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or bolt crimping, thereby constructing a current transmission path.

[0030] Understandably, a through hole is provided in the top cover 120, through which the electrode post 140 passes. A reinforcing structure or stepped structure is provided on the side of the electrode post 140 exposed in the top cover 120 away from the receiving cavity 111 to increase the contact area and load-bearing capacity between the electrode post 140 and the top cover 120, thereby enhancing the structural strength of the electrode assembly 130 connected to the top cover 120 via the electrode post 140. Alternatively, in the connection area between the electrode post 140 and the tab, multi-point welding, increasing the welding area, or adding an auxiliary support structure can be used to disperse stress and avoid fatigue fracture of the weld joint caused by vibration or impact. In addition, an elastic buffer structure or flexible connection section can be provided inside the electrode post 140 to absorb mechanical stress while maintaining conductivity and improve the overall durability of the connection.

[0031] The outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 130 refers to the side surface excluding the top and bottom end faces after it is wound or stacked. The insulating layer 150 covers the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 130 along the first direction X. The insulating layer 150 can be made of polyimide, polypropylene, polyethylene, or other polymer materials with high temperature resistance and high insulation properties to provide electrical isolation.

[0032] In specific applications, a first gap is provided between the insulating layer 150 and the housing 110 in the second direction Y, so that the electrode assembly 130 does not directly contact the inner wall of the housing 110. Specifically, the thickness and coverage of the insulating layer 150 can be designed in advance according to the shape of the electrode assembly 130 and the inner cavity size of the housing 110, ensuring that a first gap (not shown in the figure) is reserved between the outer surface of the insulating layer 150 and the inner wall of the housing 110 in the second direction Y. This first gap can accommodate manufacturing tolerances, thermal expansion, and potential deformation. Alternatively, positioning fixtures or guide structures can be used during assembly to ensure that the electrode assembly 130 has a first gap between itself and the housing 110 on both sides along the second direction Y. Or, the length and installation position of the electrode post 140 can be used to limit the suspension height of the electrode assembly 130 in the second direction Y, so that the electrode assembly 130 is suspended below the top cover 120.

[0033] Optionally, such as Figures 1-3 and Figures 7-9 The electrode assembly 130 includes a body 131 and a tab 132. The electrode post 140 includes a first conductive element 141 and a second conductive element 142. The body 131 has a tab 132 on at least one side along the second direction Y. The body 131 and the tab 132 are electrically connected. An insulating layer 150 covers the body 131 and the tab 132 around the first direction X. The first conductive element 141 passes through the top cover 120. The second conductive element 142 is disposed in the receiving cavity 111. The second conductive element 142 includes a first end 1421 and a second end 1422 opposite to each other. The first end 1421 is electrically connected to the first conductive element 141, and the second end 1422 is electrically connected to the tab 132. In the second direction Y, the distance between the first end 1421 and the housing 110 is a first distance d1, and the distance between the body 131 and the housing 110 is a second distance d2. The first distance d1 is greater than the second distance d2.

[0034] In the embodiments of this application, the electrode post 140 is designed to include a first conductive element 141, a first end 1421, and a second end 1422. The first conductive element 141 passes through the top cover 120 and is electrically connected to the first end 1421; simultaneously, the second end 1422 is electrically connected to the first end 1421 and the electrode tab 132. This structure ensures that when a single battery cell is subjected to external impact or severe vibration, the transmission path of the external force is sequentially: housing 110, top cover 120, first conductive element 141, first end 1421, second end 1422, and finally to the electrode assembly 130. In the second direction Y, a first gap d1 is formed between the first end 1421 and the housing 110, and a second gap d2 is formed between the body 131 and the housing 110. By setting the first spacing d1 to be greater than d2, the first conductive element 141 and the first end 1421 are arranged relative to the second end 1422 along the second direction Y away from the inner wall of the housing 110, thereby extending the transmission path of external force on the top cover 120 and reducing the external force borne by the electrode assembly 130.

[0035] Specifically, the electrode assembly 130 includes a body 131 and tabs 132. The body 131 is formed by winding or stacking a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separator; the body 131 and the tabs 132 can be integrally formed or separate formed parts. The tabs 132 extend from one or both sides of the body 131 along the second direction Y, and can be made of metal materials (such as aluminum foil for the positive electrode and copper foil for the negative electrode) for conducting current.

[0036] The electrode post 140 includes a first conductive element 141 and a second conductive element 142, which can be a columnar or sheet-like metal structure. One end of the first conductive element 141 is located outside the top cover 120 for external electrical connection, and the other end extends into the receiving cavity 111, or is flush with the side of the top cover 120 facing the receiving cavity 111. The second conductive element 142 is disposed in the receiving cavity 111 and is used to connect the first conductive element 141 and the electrode tab 132. The shape of the second conductive element 142 can be designed as an L-shape, U-shape, sheet-like, or flexible strip structure according to space requirements. The second conductive element 142 has a first end 1421 and a second end 1422 arranged opposite to each other. The first end 1421 is electrically connected to the first conductive element 141 by laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or bolt crimping, and the second end 1422 is electrically connected to the electrode tab 132 by laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or bolt crimping, thereby establishing a current transmission path between the first conductive element 141 and the body 131. This split structure allows the second conductive element 142 to be flexibly arranged according to the internal space of the housing 110, avoiding the inner wall of the housing 110, while facilitating assembly, adjustment and stress release.

[0037] Along the second direction Y, the first end 1421 is connected to the first conductive element 141 to form a connection portion (not shown in the figure). The first distance d1 between the first end 1421 and the housing 110 specifically refers to the minimum distance between the center of the connection portion along the second direction Y and the inner wall of the housing 110. The second distance d2 between the body 131 and the housing 110 specifically refers to the minimum distance from the outer contour of the body 131 to the inner wall of the housing 110 along the second direction Y.

[0038] Optionally, such as Figures 1-3 and Figures 7-9 In the second direction Y, the distance between the body 131 and the shell 110 is the second distance d2, and the distance between the second end 1422 and the shell 110 is the third distance d3, which is less than the second distance d2.

[0039] In the embodiments of this application, a second distance d2 is formed between the body 131 and the housing 110 in the second direction Y, and a third distance d3 is formed between the second end 1422 and the housing 110. By setting the third distance d3 to be smaller than the second distance d2, the second end 1422 is positioned relative to the body 131 along the second direction Y close to the inner wall of the housing 110. Even if the housing 110 undergoes local deformation due to long-term use or external impact or severe vibration of the single battery cell and is about to come into direct contact with the body 131, the second end 1422 can still make direct contact with the housing 110 before the body 131 along the second direction Y. This avoids damage caused by the rigid compression of the body 131 by the housing 110, thereby suppressing the risk of internal short circuits, diaphragm rupture, or thermal runaway caused by structural interference.

[0040] Specifically, the third distance d3 between the second end 1422 and the housing 110 refers to the minimum distance from the outer contour of the second end 1422 to the inner wall of the housing 110 along the second direction Y.

[0041] Optionally, such as Figures 1-3 and Figures 7-9 In the second direction Y, the distance between the first end 1421 and the housing 110 is the first distance d1, and the distance between the body 131 and the housing 110 is the second distance d2. The first distance d1 is greater than the second distance d2. Furthermore, in the second direction Y, the distance between the body 131 and the housing 110 is the second distance d2, and the distance between the second end 1422 and the housing 110 is the third distance d3. The third distance d3 is less than the second distance d2.

[0042] In this embodiment, the first spacing d1 is greater than the second spacing d2, and the third spacing d3 is less than the second spacing d2. This also takes into account the beneficial effects of the first spacing d1 being greater than the second spacing d2 in the above embodiments, as well as the beneficial effects of the third spacing d3 being less than the second spacing d2 in the above embodiments. The details will not be repeated in this embodiment.

[0043] Optionally, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first conductive element 141 includes a conductive block 1411, a conductive post 1412, and a support base 1413. The support base 1413 is installed on the side of the top cover 120 away from the receiving cavity 111. The conductive block 1411 is installed on the support base 1413. The conductive post 1412 passes through the top cover 120. The two ends of the conductive post 1412 are electrically connected to the first end 1421 and the conductive block 1411, respectively.

[0044] In the embodiments of this application, a support base 1413 located on the side of the top cover 120 opposite to the receiving cavity 111 can be electrically connected to external electrical components, thus realizing the electrical connection between the first conductive element 141 and the external electrical components; a conductive post 1412 passing through the top cover 120 can be electrically connected to the first end 1421 and the conductive block 1411 respectively, thus realizing the electrical connection between the first conductive element 141 and the first end 1421. This structure improves the stability of the connection between the first conductive element 141 and the top cover 120.

[0045] The conductive block 1411 is located on top of the conductive post 1412 and is fixedly connected to the top cover 120. The conductive block 1411 has a flat or sheet-like structure to facilitate connection with other external electrical components. The conductive post 1412 extends downward from the conductive block 1411, passes through the top cover 120 and extends into the receiving cavity 111, and is connected to the second conductive element 142. The conductive post 1412 can be cylindrical or prismatic, and its diameter and length can be designed according to the current capacity and space layout requirements.

[0046] Optionally, such as Figures 1 to 5 The second conductive element 142 includes a first connecting portion 1423, a bending portion 1424, and a second connecting portion 1425. The first connecting portion 1423 is disposed between the body 131 and the top cover 120, and the first connecting portion 1423 forms a first end 1421. The second connecting portion 1425 is disposed on the side of the body 131 facing the tab 132, and the second connecting portion 1425 forms a second end 1422. One end of the bending portion 1424 is connected to the first connecting portion 1423, and the other end of the bending portion 1424 is connected to the second connecting portion 1425.

[0047] In the embodiments of this application, the first connecting portion 1423 is disposed between the body 131 and the top cover 120, and the second connecting portion 1425 is disposed between the tab 132 and the housing 110. The first connecting portion 1423 and the second connecting portion 1425 are connected by the bending portion 1424, so as to make full use of the internal space of the single battery, avoid the need to set up additional space for arranging the second conductive element 142, reduce the occupation of the second conductive element 142 on the volume of the receiving cavity 111, so as to provide more design space for the body 131 while maintaining the size of the housing 110 unchanged, thereby improving the energy density of the single battery.

[0048] Specifically, the second conductive element 142 adopts a segmented structural design, including a first connecting part 1423, a bending part 1424 and a second connecting part 1425, with each part working together to achieve electrical connection function and spatial layout optimization.

[0049] The first connecting portion 1423 is disposed in the gap between the body 131 and the top cover 120, extending along the second direction Y. The end of the first connecting portion 1423 forms an electrical connection with the first conductive member 141 passing through the top cover 120. This arrangement utilizes the vertical space directly above the body 131, avoiding the encroachment of traditional vertical lead-out structures on the space in the height direction of the receiving cavity 111. The second connecting portion 1425 is located on the side of the body 131 facing the tab 132, that is, in the gap between the tab 132 and the housing 110, extending along the first direction X. The end of the second connecting portion 1425 forms a second end 1422, which is directly welded or crimped to the tab 132. The bending portion 1424 serves as a transition structure. One end of the bending portion 1424 is connected to the first connecting portion 1423, and the other end of the bending portion 1424 is connected to the second connecting portion 1425. The bending portion 1424 can be designed as an arc, a right angle, or a multi-segment broken line shape according to the contour of the receiving cavity 111, so as to adapt to the spatial orientation and alleviate stress concentration.

[0050] Optionally, such as Figure 6 The single cell also includes: a reinforcing structure 160; the first conductive element 141 is at least partially exposed on the side of the top cover 120 away from the receiving cavity 111, the reinforcing structure 160 is disposed on the side of the top cover 120 away from the receiving cavity 111, and the reinforcing structure 160 connects the top cover 120 and the exposed portion of the first conductive element 141.

[0051] In the embodiments of this application, the beneficial effects are as follows: by providing a reinforcing structure 160 between the portion of the first conductive element 141 exposed in the top cover 120 and the top cover 120, and connecting the top cover 120 and the exposed portion of the first conductive element 141 with the reinforcing structure 160, the connection between the first conductive element 141 and the top cover 120 can be strengthened, thereby improving the connection strength and impact resistance between the first conductive element 141 and the top cover 120.

[0052] Specifically, the first conductive element 141 is at least partially exposed on the side of the top cover 120 facing away from the receiving cavity 111. By providing a reinforcing structure 160 on the side of the top cover 120 facing away from the receiving cavity 111, and connecting the top cover 120 and the first conductive element 141 through the reinforcing structure 160, at least one side of the first conductive element 141 along the second direction Y is connected to the side of the top cover 120 facing away from the receiving cavity 111 through the reinforcing structure 160, thereby improving the connection strength and impact resistance between the first conductive element 141 and the top cover 120. The reinforcing structure 160 can take various forms, such as a metal plate, a bracket, a welded rib, or an injection-molded reinforcing ring. Thus, the top cover 120, the first conductive element 141, and the reinforcing structure 160 are fixedly connected, thereby improving the connection strength and impact resistance between the first conductive element 141 and the top cover 120 in different force directions, improving the mechanical stability of the single cell, and effectively preventing the first conductive element 141 from displacing, deforming, or even breaking due to instantaneous high stress when the single cell is subjected to external impact.

[0053] Furthermore, the first conductive element 141 includes a conductive block 1411 and a conductive post 1412. The conductive post 1412 is fixedly connected to the conductive block 1411. The conductive block 1411 is directly fixedly connected to the top cover 120 around the outer peripheral surface of the first direction X. The conductive block 1411 is fixedly connected to the reinforcing structure 160 along one side of the second direction Y, thereby indirectly fixedly connected to the top cover 120.

[0054] Optionally, such as Figure 6 The single cell has a third direction Z, which is perpendicular to the first direction X and the second direction Y respectively; the reinforcing structure 160 includes: a plurality of reinforcing members 161; the reinforcing members 161 are disposed on the side of the top cover 120 away from the receiving cavity 111; the plurality of reinforcing members 161 are arranged at intervals along the third direction Z, and the reinforcing members 161 connect the top cover 120 and the exposed portion of the first conductive member 141.

[0055] In the embodiments of this application, the beneficial effects are as follows: by arranging multiple reinforcing members 161 at intervals along the third direction Z, the exposed portions of the reinforcing members 161 connecting the top cover 120 and the first conductive member 141 can be distributed and transmitted to multiple support points on the top cover 120 and the first conductive member 141, avoiding connection failure or structural breakage caused by stress concentration in a certain part; at the same time, this distribution method can reduce the amount of material used and reduce the weight of a single battery cell while ensuring structural strength.

[0056] Specifically, the reinforcing structure 160 includes a plurality of reinforcing members 161 arranged at Z intervals along the third direction. These reinforcing members 161 are longitudinally distributed in the vertical direction rather than concentrated in a single location, and are used to provide uniform, stable and impact-resistant mechanical support for the exposed portion of the first conductive member 141.

[0057] Each reinforcing member 161 is disposed on the side of the top cover 120 opposite to the receiving cavity 111. Each reinforcing member 161 is fixedly connected to the exposed portion of the top cover 120 and the first conductive member 141. The connection methods include welding, riveting, bolting, or integral molding, ensuring a robust connection structure and providing vibration and impact resistance. The multiple reinforcing members 161 are distributed at intervals along the third direction Z, which can disperse external forces to multiple support points, avoiding stress concentration in a certain part that could lead to connection failure or structural breakage. At the same time, this distribution method can reduce the amount of material used and reduce the weight of a single battery cell while ensuring structural strength.

[0058] Optionally, such as Figures 7-9 Along the second direction Y, a second gap is provided between the insulating layer 150 and the tab 132.

[0059] In the embodiments of this application, the beneficial effect is that by providing a second gap between the insulating layer 150 and the tab 132, the insulating layer 150 maintains a safe distance from the tab 132 along the second direction Y, preventing the insulating layer 150 from being carbonized or even burned through by the tab 132, and ensuring that the insulating function of the insulating layer 150 is maintained.

[0060] Specifically, the tab 132, as a high-current-density conductive path, is prone to high temperatures under high-rate charging and discharging or abnormal operating conditions (such as overcurrent, internal resistance heating, partial short circuit, etc.). If the insulating layer 150 is in close contact with the tab 132, the heat received by a local area of ​​the insulating layer 150 may exceed the temperature resistance limit of the insulating layer 150 material, resulting in carbonization or even burn-through, causing the insulating function of the insulating layer 150 to fail, and inducing the risk of short circuit with the housing 110 or adjacent components.

[0061] Along the second direction Y, an opening is reserved in the lead-out area of ​​the tab 132, and local thinning or a clearance groove is provided to ensure that while the insulating layer 150 covers the outer peripheral surface of the body 131, a second gap (not shown in the figure, this gap can be 0.1mm-2mm) is provided between it and the tab 132, so that the insulating layer 150 maintains a safe distance from the tab 132 along the second direction Y. This safe distance blocks the heat conduction path and hinders the temperature rise of the insulating layer 150; at the same time, this safe distance provides a buffer space for heat diffusion and air convection of the tab 132, slowing down the temperature rise rate of the tab 132, thereby improving the thermal management capability of the single cell.

[0062] Optionally, such as Figure 4 The insulating layer 150 also covers the side surface of the electrode assembly 130 facing away from the top cover 120; the housing 110 includes a bottom wall 116 disposed opposite to the opening 112, and the insulating layer 150 is attached to the bottom wall 116.

[0063] In the embodiments of this application, the beneficial effect is that by covering the surface of the electrode assembly 130 away from the top cover 120 with an insulating layer 150 and making the insulating layer 150 directly attached to the bottom wall 116, the need to set a support plate assembly between the bottom of the electrode assembly 130 and the housing 110 can be eliminated, thereby providing more design space for the body 131 and thus improving the energy density of the single cell.

[0064] Specifically, the insulating layer 150 not only covers the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly 130 around the first direction X, but also extends further to completely cover the side surface of the electrode assembly 130 facing away from the top cover 120 (not shown in the figure), that is, the bottom end face of the top cover 120. At the same time, the housing 110 is provided with a bottom wall 116 opposite to the opening 112. The bottom surface of the insulating layer 150 is in direct contact with the bottom wall 116, so that the electrode assembly 130 is supported on the bottom wall 116 by the insulating layer 150, thereby eliminating the need for an additional support plate assembly that supports the body 131 along the first direction X toward the top cover 120.

[0065] Optionally, such as Figure 4 The single cell has a third direction Z, which is perpendicular to the first direction X and the second direction Y respectively; the housing 110 includes two first sidewalls 114 arranged opposite to each other along the second direction Y, and two second sidewalls 115 arranged opposite to each other along the third direction Z. The outer surface area of ​​the first sidewall 114 is smaller than the outer surface area of ​​the second sidewall 115. The tab 132 is provided on the side of the body 131 facing the first sidewall 114.

[0066] In the embodiments of this application, the beneficial effects are as follows: the outer surface area of ​​the first sidewall 114 is smaller than the outer surface area of ​​the second sidewall 115, that is, the first sidewall 114 is the wide side of the shell 110 and the second sidewall 115 is the narrow side of the shell 110. Furthermore, by setting the tab 132 on the side of the body 131 facing the first sidewall 114, that is, setting the tab 132 on the side of the body 131 facing the narrow side of the shell 110, when the single battery is subjected to an external force from the second direction Y, the stress per unit area of ​​the second sidewall is greater but the overall deformation is smaller, which is beneficial to concentrate the impact energy in the area with higher structural strength.

[0067] Specifically, the housing 110 has two first sidewalls 114 arranged opposite each other along the second direction Y, and two second sidewalls 115 arranged opposite each other along the third direction Z. The outer surface area of ​​the first sidewalls 114 is smaller than the outer surface area of ​​the second sidewalls 115, indicating that the housing 110 has a flat or cuboid structure in its overall shape. The dimension of the housing 110 along the third direction Z is larger than the dimension along the second direction Y, that is, the first sidewalls 114 are the short sidewalls and the second sidewalls 115 are the long sidewalls. The tab 132 is disposed on the side of the body 131 facing the first sidewall 114, and the current lead-out path is close to the narrow surface area of ​​the housing 110.

[0068] Because the first sidewall 114 has a smaller area and relatively higher structural rigidity, when subjected to external forces from the second direction Y, the first sidewall 114 experiences greater stress per unit area but less overall deformation, which is beneficial for concentrating impact energy in areas with higher structural strength. Meanwhile, the tab 132 is positioned close to the first sidewall 114, and in conjunction with the aforementioned design concept of prioritizing the bearing of external forces by the electrode post 140, the conductive path and the rigid shell can work together to form a mechanical transmission path, further guiding the impact load to the robust edge of the shell 110 rather than the electrode body 131.

[0069] Furthermore, the design of the first sidewall 114 to bear external forces is also beneficial to the structural layout at the battery pack level. In the battery pack module, multiple individual cells can be stacked side by side along the second direction Y. The first sidewall 114, as a narrow surface, fits together with each other, which can reduce the overall thickness of the module. At the same time, the high rigidity of the first sidewall 114 is beneficial to applying pre-tightening force to the side plate of the battery pack or absorbing collision energy, thereby improving system-level safety.

[0070] Optionally, such as Figures 4-9 The housing 110 also has a chamfered portion 113, which is located at the junction of the first side wall 114 and the second side wall 115. The two ends of the chamfered portion 113 are connected to the first side wall 114 and the second side wall 115 respectively. In the second direction Y, the distance between the body 131 and the housing 110 is the second distance d2. The width d4 of the chamfered portion 113 in the second direction Y is less than the second distance d2.

[0071] In the embodiments of this application, the beneficial effects are as follows: a chamfered portion 113 is provided at the junction of the first sidewall 114 and the second sidewall 115. By setting the width d4 of the chamfered portion 113 along the second direction Y to be smaller than the second distance d2 between the body 131 and the shell 110, the chamfered portion 113 is completely located within the structural gap between the body 131 and the inner wall of the shell 110. This makes the chamfered portion 113 offset from the body 131, providing the body 131 with a larger design space, thereby improving the energy density of the single battery cell.

[0072] Specifically, a chamfered portion 113 is provided at the corner where the first sidewall 114 and the second sidewall 115 of the shell 110 meet, so as to realize the transition connection between the two adjacent sidewalls, eliminate sharp edges, and enhance structural strength. The two ends of the chamfered portion 113 are smoothly connected to the first sidewall 114 and the second sidewall 115 respectively. The cross-section of the chamfered portion 113 can be in the form of an arc, a bevel, or a composite curved surface. The chamfered portion 113 can be integrally formed with the shell 110 or formed through subsequent processing.

[0073] The second distance d2 between the body 131 and the shell 110 specifically refers to the minimum distance from the outer contour of the body 131 to the inner wall of the shell 110 along the second direction Y; the width d4 of the chamfered portion 113 along the second direction Y specifically refers to the projected length or maximum intrusion depth of the chamfered portion 113 in the second direction Y. By setting the width d4 to be less than the second distance d2, the chamfered portion 113 is completely located within the structural gap between the body 131 and the inner wall of the shell 110, and will not intrude into the space occupied by the body 131.

[0074] Optionally, embodiments of this application also provide a battery pack, including the single battery cells described in the above embodiments.

[0075] In embodiments of this application, the battery pack includes individual battery cells, such as... Figures 1-2 As shown, in a single battery cell, the opening 112 of the accommodating cavity 111 is sealed by the top cover 120 and connected to the housing 110. The electrode post 140 passes through the top cover 120 and extends at least partially to one side of the electrode assembly 130 along the second direction Y, and is electrically connected to the electrode assembly 130. This allows the electrode post 140 to not only conduct current but also serve as a mechanical support structure to fix the electrode assembly 130 below the top cover 120. Simultaneously, the first gap between the insulating layer 150 and the housing 110 along the second direction Y prevents the electrode assembly 130 from directly contacting the inner wall of the housing 110. When the single battery cell encounters external impact or severe vibration, the transmission path of the external force is sequentially through the housing 110, top cover 120, electrode post 140, and finally to the electrode assembly 130. This extends the transmission path of the external force to the electrode assembly 130, reducing the external force borne by the electrode assembly 130.

[0076] Optionally, multiple such individual cells can be integrated in series and parallel. When the battery pack is used for a long time or is subjected to external impact or severe vibration, each individual cell can reduce the external force on its respective electrode assembly 130 to avoid chain damage caused by casing deformation, thereby improving the mechanical robustness and thermal safety of the entire battery pack.

[0077] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0078] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A single-cell battery having a first direction (X) and a second direction (Y) that are perpendicular to each other, characterized in that, include: Housing (110), top cover (120), electrode assembly (130), electrode post (140) and insulating layer (150); The housing (110) has a receiving cavity (111), the receiving cavity (111) has an opening (112) at one end along the first direction (X), the top cover (120) is connected to the housing (110) and closes the opening (112), and the electrode assembly (130) is disposed in the receiving cavity (111); The electrode post (140) passes through the top cover (120), and at least a portion of the electrode post (140) is located on one side of the electrode assembly (130) along the second direction (Y) and is electrically connected to the electrode assembly (130). The insulating layer (150) covers the outer peripheral surface of the electrode assembly (130), and a first gap is provided between the insulating layer (150) and the housing (110) in the second direction (Y).

2. The single-cell battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrode assembly (130) includes a body (131) and a tab (132). The body (131) has the tab (132) on at least one side along the second direction (Y). The body (131) and the tab (132) are electrically connected. The insulating layer (150) covers the body (131) and the tab (132) around the first direction (X). The pole post (140) includes: a first conductive element (141) and a second conductive element (142); the first conductive element (141) is disposed through the top cover (120), and the second conductive element (142) is disposed in the receiving cavity (111). The second conductive element (142) includes a first end (1421) and a second end (1422) opposite to each other. The first end (1421) is electrically connected to the first conductive element (141), and the second end (1422) is electrically connected to the tab (132). In the second direction (Y), the distance between the first end (1421) and the housing (110) is the first distance (d1), and the distance between the body (131) and the housing (110) is the second distance (d2). The first distance (d1) is greater than the second distance (d2). And / or, in the second direction (Y), the distance between the second end (1422) and the housing (110) is a third distance (d3), which is smaller than the second distance (d2).

3. The single-cell battery according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second conductive element (142) includes a first connecting portion (1423), a bending portion (1424), and a second connecting portion (1425). The first connecting part (1423) is disposed between the body (131) and the top cover (120), and the first connecting part (1423) forms the first end (1421). The second connecting part (1425) is disposed on the side of the body (131) facing the tab (132), and the second connecting part (1425) forms the second end (1422). One end of the bent part (1424) is connected to the first connecting part (1423), and the other end of the bent part (1424) is connected to the second connecting part (1425).

4. The single-cell battery according to claim 2, characterized in that, The single cell also includes: a reinforcing structure (160). The first conductive element (141) is at least partially exposed on the side of the top cover (120) away from the receiving cavity (111), and the reinforcing structure (160) is provided on the side of the top cover (120) away from the receiving cavity (111). The reinforcing structure (160) connects the top cover (120) and the exposed portion of the first conductive element (141).

5. The single-cell battery according to claim 4, characterized in that, The single cell has a third direction (Z), which is perpendicular to the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y) respectively; the reinforcing structure (160) includes: a plurality of reinforcing members (161); the reinforcing members (161) are disposed on the side of the top cover (120) away from the receiving cavity (111); Multiple reinforcement members (161) are arranged at intervals along the third direction (Z), and the reinforcement members (161) connect the top cover (120) and the exposed portion of the first conductive member (141).

6. The single-cell battery according to claim 2, characterized in that, Along the second direction (Y), a second gap is provided between the insulating layer (150) and the tab (132).

7. The single-cell battery according to any one of claims 2-6, characterized in that, The insulating layer (150) also covers the side surface of the electrode assembly (130) opposite to the top cover (120); the housing (110) includes a bottom wall (116) disposed opposite to the opening (112), and the insulating layer (150) is attached to the bottom wall (116).

8. The single-cell battery according to any one of claims 2-6, characterized in that, The single cell has a third direction (Z), which is perpendicular to the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y) respectively; the housing (110) includes two first sidewalls (114) arranged opposite to each other along the second direction (Y) and two second sidewalls (115) arranged opposite to each other along the third direction (Z), the outer surface area of ​​the first sidewall (114) is smaller than the outer surface area of ​​the second sidewall (115), and the tab (132) is provided on the side of the body (131) facing the first sidewall (114).

9. The single-cell battery according to claim 8, characterized in that, The housing (110) also has a chamfered portion (113), which is located at the junction of the first side wall (114) and the second side wall (115), and the two ends of the chamfered portion (113) are respectively connected to the first side wall (114) and the second side wall (115); In the second direction (Y), the distance between the body (131) and the shell (110) is the second distance (d2); the width (d4) of the chamfered portion (113) in the second direction (Y) is smaller than the second distance (d2).

10. A battery pack, characterized in that, include: The single-cell battery as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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