Battery cell, battery, electrical device and battery cell manufacturing plant

Abstract

battery cell, whereby it a housing, having an opening; an electrode assembly, wherein it is housed in the casing; an end cap, covering the opening and sealingly connected to the housing; and comprising a current collector component, wherein it is housed in the housing and is located on one side of the electrode assembly facing the end cap, wherein the current collector component is configured to connect the housing and the electrode assembly in order to electrically connect the electrode assembly to the housing.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REGISTRATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority over international patent application PCT / CN2021 / 104779 entitled “Battery cell, battery, electrical device and manufacturing process and plant for the battery cell”, which was filed on 6 July 2021 and the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. TECHNICAL AREA

[0002] The present application relates to the field of battery technology, in particular to a battery cell, a battery, an electrical device and a battery cell manufacturing plant. BACKGROUND TECHNOLOGY

[0003] Vehicles typically use lithium-ion batteries. As rechargeable batteries, lithium-ion batteries offer advantages such as compact size, high energy density, high power density, multiple reuse cycles, and long storage life.

[0004] A battery cell generally comprises a casing and an electrode assembly. The casing is used to house the electrode assembly and the electrolyte, while the electrode assembly generally includes a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate. Electrical energy is generated by the movement of metal ions (such as lithium ions) between the positive and negative electrode plates.

[0005] In general battery cells, the electrode assembly must be electrically connected to the casing so that the casing can function as the positive or negative output terminal of the battery cell. Currently, establishing an electrical connection between the electrode assembly and the casing presents a challenge. CONTENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present application relates to a battery cell, a battery, an electrical device and a battery cell manufacturing system that enables a more convenient electrical connection between the electrode assembly and the housing.

[0007] In the first aspect, the embodiment of the present application provides a battery cell comprising a housing, wherein it has an opening; an electrode assembly, wherein it is housed in the housing; an end cap, wherein it covers the opening and is sealed to the housing; and a current collector component, wherein it is housed in the housing and is located on a side of the electrode assembly facing the end cap, wherein the current collector component is configured to connect the housing and the electrode assembly in order to electrically connect the electrode assembly to the housing.

[0008] In the aforementioned technical solution, the current collector component is located on the side of the electrode assembly facing the end cap. The electrode assembly is electrically connected to the housing via the current collector component. The end cap covers the housing opening and seals tightly to the housing. This structure facilitates battery cell assembly, while the current collector component can be connected internally to the housing. After the current collector component is connected to the electrode assembly and the housing, the end cap covers the housing opening and seals tightly to the housing, thus facilitating the electrical connection between the electrode assembly and the housing.

[0009] In some embodiments, the current collector component is welded to the housing.

[0010] In the above-mentioned technical solution, welding the current collector component to the housing provides a simple connection method between the current collector component and the housing, ensuring a robust connection between the current collector component and the housing and thereby enabling a stable current flow between the current collector component and the housing.

[0011] In some embodiments, the current collector component is welded to the housing to form a weld section, wherein the weld section serves to fasten the current collector component and the housing, the weld section being located inside the housing.

[0012] In the aforementioned technical solution, the weld section formed by welding the current collector component to the housing is located inside the housing. This reduces the risk of damage to the housing's outer structure from welding the current collector component to the housing, as would be the case if the weld section were located on the outside of the housing. This, in turn, reduces the risk of housing corrosion and increases the battery cell's lifespan.

[0013] In some embodiments, a first limiting section projects from the inside of the housing, the first limiting section being used to limit the movement of the end cap in the direction facing the electrode assembly; wherein the current collector component is welded to the first limiting section.

[0014] In the aforementioned technical solution, the first limiting section acts as a limiting function for the end cap, restricting its movement in the direction facing the electrode assembly. The current collector component is welded to this first limiting section, which effectively utilizes the first limiting section and facilitates welding and securing the current collector component.

[0015] In some embodiments, the current collector component comprises a main body section for connecting to the electrode assembly, wherein the main body section is arranged on the side of the first limiting section facing the electrode assembly, the first limiting section being configured to prevent the main body section from detaching from the housing in a direction away from the electrode assembly.

[0016] In the aforementioned technical solution, the first limiting section acts as a limiting function for the main body section. The first limiting section prevents the main body section from detaching from the housing in a direction away from the electrode assembly. The first limiting section separates the end cap and the main body section, making it less likely that the main body section will compromise the seal between the end cap and the housing, thus ensuring a tight seal between the end cap and the housing.

[0017] In some embodiments, the main body section rests against the side of the first boundary section facing the electrode assembly and is welded to the first boundary section.

[0018] In the aforementioned technical solution, the main body section rests against the side of the first limiting section facing the electrode assembly and is welded to it. This ensures that the entire current collector component exhibits excellent rigidity after being attached to the first limiting section. Furthermore, this increases the contact area between the current collector component and the first limiting section, thereby increasing the current flow area between the housing and the current collector component.

[0019] In some embodiments, the current collector component further comprises an elastic section, which is connected to the main body section, wherein the elastic section rests against the first boundary section and is welded to the first boundary section.

[0020] In the aforementioned technical solution, the elastic section of the current collector component rests against the first boundary section and is welded to it. The elastic section can deform elastically in response to changes in the distance between the main body section and the first boundary section. This reduces the risk of the electrode assembly shifting within the housing due to battery cell vibrations and resulting in a failure of the electrical connection between the main body section and the electrode assembly.

[0021] In some embodiments, the elastic section is a spring plate that is bent and arranged on the main body section.

[0022] In the aforementioned technical solution, the elastic section comprises a spring plate that is bent and positioned on the main body section. This structure is simple and possesses excellent deformability.

[0023] In some embodiments, the current collector component further comprises a first connecting section, wherein it is connected to the main body section, wherein the first connecting section extends at least partially to the inner circumferential side of the first limiting section, and the first connecting section is welded to the first limiting section.

[0024] In the aforementioned technical solution, the first connecting section of the current collector component extends at least partially to the inner circumferential side of the first boundary section, with the first connecting section being welded to the first boundary section. This reduces the difficulty of welding the current collector component to the first boundary section.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first connecting section is a projection extending from the main body section in a direction away from the electrode assembly, the projection being designed to form a fit with the inner circumferential surface of the first boundary section.

[0026] In the aforementioned technical solution, the first connecting section is a projection that forms a fit with the inner circumferential surface of the first boundary section. This fit between the projection and the inner circumferential surface of the first boundary section reduces the risk of vibrations of the current collector component that can occur during the welding process between the first connecting section and the first boundary section. This reduces welding difficulty and improves the robustness of the joint after welding. Simultaneously, it increases the contact area between the housing and the current collector component, thereby increasing the current flow area between the housing and the current collector component.

[0027] In some embodiments, the main body section has an inner surface facing the electrode assembly and an outer surface facing away from the electrode assembly, wherein the projection extends from the outer surface in a direction away from the electrode assembly; wherein the current collector component further comprises a recess which is deepened from the inner surface in a direction away from the electrode assembly towards the projection.

[0028] In the aforementioned technical solution, the current collector component has a recess that extends from the inner surface of the main body section towards the projection in a direction away from the electrode assembly. Firstly, this reduces the material required for the current collector component, thereby lowering manufacturing costs; secondly, it improves the projection's deformability. This allows the projection to rest elastically against the first boundary section, ensuring reliable contact between the projection and the first boundary section.

[0029] In some embodiments, both the projection and the recess are ring-shaped structures that extend circumferentially along the first boundary section.

[0030] In the above-mentioned technical solution, both the projection and the recess are ring-shaped structures that extend circumferentially along the first boundary section, giving the projection excellent deformability.

[0031] In some embodiments, the end of the first connecting section facing away from the main body section does not extend beyond the first limiting section in the direction in which the first connecting section extends away from the main body section in a direction away from the electrode assembly.

[0032] In the aforementioned technical solution, the end of the first connecting section facing away from the main body section does not extend beyond the first limiting section. Consequently, it is unlikely that the first connecting section will interfere with the end cap, thus ensuring a tight seal between the end cap and the housing.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first connecting section is welded to an inner circumferential surface of the first boundary section, wherein the inner circumferential surface has a boundary position, the radial dimension of the inner circumferential surface gradually increasing from the boundary position to both ends of the inner circumferential surface; wherein the end of the first connecting section facing away from the main body section extends beyond the boundary position in the direction in which the first connecting section extends from the main body section in a direction away from the electrode assembly.

[0034] In the aforementioned technical solution, the end of the first connecting section facing away from the main body section extends beyond the boundary position, thus forming a weld seam between the outer circumferential surface of the first connecting section and the first boundary section. This facilitates the welding and fastening of the first connecting section to the first boundary section and ensures robustness after welding between the first connecting section and the first boundary section.

[0035] In some embodiments, the first connecting section comprises an extension segment, wherein it is connected to the main body section, the extension segment extending from the main body section in a direction away from the electrode assembly, and the extension segment extending at least partially to the inner circumferential side of the first limiting section; and a limiting segment, wherein it is connected to the extension segment, the limiting segment abutting the side of the first limiting section facing away from the electrode assembly and being welded to the first limiting section.

[0036] In the aforementioned technical solution, the limiting segment rests against the side of the first limiting section facing away from the electrode assembly and is welded to the first limiting section. The limiting segment acts as a limiting function, increasing the post-weld strength between the current collector component and the first limiting section, and enlarging the contact area between the current collector component and the first limiting section to increase the current flow area between the housing and the current collector component.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first boundary section is a ring-shaped structure that extends in the circumferential direction of the housing.

[0038] In the aforementioned technical solution, the first limiting section is a ring-shaped structure that can be easily formed and manufactured. The entire circumference of the first limiting section can restrict the end cap, thus ensuring the limiting capability of the first limiting section on the end cap.

[0039] In some embodiments, a rolling groove is arranged on the outside of the housing at a position corresponding to the first boundary section.

[0040] In the above-mentioned technical solution, a rolling groove is arranged on the outside of the housing, and the first boundary section is formed during the forming of the rolling groove at a position where the housing corresponds to the rolling groove, thus simplifying the forming process of the first boundary section.

[0041] In some embodiments, the battery cell further comprises a sealing element; wherein the end cap is tightly connected to the housing via the sealing element.

[0042] In the above-mentioned technical solution, the end cap is tightly connected to the housing via the sealing element to ensure the sealing performance between the end cap and the housing.

[0043] In some embodiments, the sealing element is configured to insulate the housing from the end cap.

[0044] In the aforementioned technical solution, the sealing element insulates the housing and the end cap. The sealing element performs both a sealing and an insulating function between the housing and the end cap, thereby ensuring a reliable seal between the end cap and the housing while simultaneously reducing the risk of electrification of the end cap.

[0045] In some embodiments, the sealing element is configured to enclose the end cap circumferentially along the opening.

[0046] In the aforementioned technical solution, the sealing element wraps around the end cap circumferentially along the opening of the housing. This improves, firstly, the sealing performance of the sealing element with respect to the end cap and the housing, and secondly, the integrity between the sealing element and the housing. During battery cell assembly, the sealing element can first be wrapped around the end cap, and then the end cap and the sealing element can be installed in the housing as an integrated unit.

[0047] In some embodiments, a second limiting section is arranged at one end of the opening of the housing, wherein the second limiting section is used to limit the release of the end cap from the housing in a direction away from the electrode assembly; wherein, in the thickness direction of the end cap, at least a part of the sealing element is provided between the end cap and the second limiting section to achieve a tight connection between the end cap and the housing.

[0048] In the aforementioned technical solution, the second limiting section acts as a limiting function for the end cap, preventing it from detaching from the housing in a direction away from the electrode assembly. At least part of the sealing element is positioned between the end cap and the second limiting section, thereby achieving a tight connection between the end cap and the housing and ensuring a good seal between them.

[0049] In some embodiments, the sealing element comprises a covering and a second connecting section, wherein the second connecting section is connected to the covering; wherein at least a part of the end cap is located inside the covering, and wherein, in the thickness direction of the end cap, the second connecting section is provided between the end cap and the second limiting section to achieve a tight connection between the end cap and the housing.

[0050] In the aforementioned technical solution, the sealing element comprises a casing and a second connecting section, which are joined together. At least part of the end cap is located within the casing, and the second connecting section is provided between the end cap and the boundary section. The sealing element has a simple structure, which achieves a good seal between the end cap and the housing while simultaneously ensuring excellent integrity between the sealing element and the end cap.

[0051] In the second aspect, the embodiment of the present application provides a battery comprising several battery cells provided by one of the embodiments in the first aspect.

[0052] In the third aspect, the embodiment of the present application provides an electrical device comprising a battery cell provided by one of the embodiments in the first aspect.

[0053] In the fourth aspect, the embodiment of the present application provides a battery cell manufactured by a process comprising: providing a housing, wherein the housing has an opening; providing an electrode assembly; providing an end cap; providing a current collector component; connecting the current collector component to the electrode assembly; placing the electrode assembly and the current collector component in the housing; and covering the opening with the end cap and forming a tight connection between the end cap and the housing, such that the current collector component is located on the side of the electrode assembly facing the end cap; wherein the housing and the electrode assembly are electrically connected via the current collector component.

[0054] In some embodiments, the manufacturing process further includes welding the current collector component to the housing from inside the housing before covering the opening with the end cap.

[0055] In the fifth aspect, the embodiment of the present application provides a manufacturing apparatus for a battery cell, comprising a first provisioning device for providing a housing, the housing having an opening; a second provisioning device for providing an electrode assembly; a third provisioning device for providing an end cap; a fourth provisioning device for providing a current collector component; and an assembly device for connecting the current collector component to the electrode assembly, further comprising being used to receive the electrode assembly and the current collector component within the housing, and also being used to cover the opening with the end cap and to create a tight connection between the end cap and the housing, such that the current collector component is located on the side of the electrode assembly facing the end cap;wherein the housing and the electrode assembly are electrically connected via the current collector component; FIGURES

[0056] In order to illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application more clearly, the figures to be used in the embodiments are briefly introduced below, and it should be understood that the following figures only show certain embodiments of the present application and should therefore not be regarded as a limitation of the scope, and other relevant figures can be obtained on the basis of the figures without creative effort by general technical personnel. Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of the structure of a vehicle in some embodiments of the present application; Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the structure of a battery in some embodiments of the present application; Fig. Figure 3 is an exploded view of a battery cell in some embodiments of the present application; Fig. 4 is a sectional view of the battery cell in Fig. 3; Fig. Figure 5 is a partial view of the battery cell in some embodiments of the present application; Fig. Figure 6 is a partial view of the battery cell in some further embodiments of the present application; Fig. 7 is a partial view of the battery cell in Fig. 4; Fig. 8 is a partial view of the battery cell in some further embodiments of the present application; Fig. Figure 9 is a flowchart of the manufacturing process of the battery cell in some embodiments of the present application; Fig. Figure 10 is a schematic representation of the structure of a battery cell manufacturing plant in some embodiments of the present application. SPECIFIC EXECUTION FORMS

[0057] To clarify the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application are clearly described below with reference to the figures in those embodiments. It is evident that the described embodiments represent only a portion of the embodiments of this application and not all of them. All other embodiments that are obtained by general technical personnel in this field, without creative effort, based on the embodiments of the application, are within the scope of the application.

[0058] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as they are generally understood by persons skilled in the field of the present application; the terms used in the description of this application serve solely to describe specific embodiments in the present application and are not intended to limit the present application; the terms "comprise" and "include" and all variations thereof in the description, the claims, and the figures mentioned above in this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description and the claims of this application or in the figures mentioned above are used to distinguish between different objects and are not intended to describe any particular order or ranking.

[0059] The term “embodiment,” as used in the present application, implies that the specific features, structures, or properties described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The occurrence of this expression at different points in the description does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it denote independent or alternative embodiments that are mutually exclusive with other embodiments.

[0060] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "mounted," "connected," "linked," and "attached" are to be understood in the broadest sense unless expressly stated otherwise and limited, e.g., they may be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they may be a direct connection or an indirect connection via an intermediate medium, or a connection within two elements. The specific meanings of the aforementioned terms in the context of this application can be understood by general technical personnel in this field according to the specific situations.

[0061] In the embodiments of the present application, identical reference numerals denote identical components. For the sake of brevity, a detailed description of identical components in different embodiments is omitted. It is understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of various components in the embodiments of the present application shown in the figures, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device, are given for illustrative purposes only and should not be interpreted as limiting the present application.

[0062] The term “several” in this application refers to two or more (including two).

[0063] In the present application, the battery cell may comprise a lithium-ion secondary battery, a lithium-ion primary battery, a lithium-sulfur battery, a sodium-lithium-ion battery, a sodium-ion battery, or a magnesium-ion battery, and the embodiment of this application does not limit this in any way. The battery cell may have a cylindrical, flat, rectangular, or other shape, and the embodiment of this application does not limit this in any way. The battery cells are generally classified into three types according to their packaging: cylindrical battery cells, square battery cells, and soft-pack battery cells, and the embodiment of this application does not limit this in any way.

[0064] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of the present application refers to a single physical module comprising one or more battery cells to provide a higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery mentioned in the present application may comprise battery modules or battery packs, etc. A battery generally includes a housing for encapsulating one or more battery cells. The housing can prevent liquids or other foreign substances from interfering with the charging or discharging of the battery cell.

[0065] The battery cell comprises an electrode assembly and an electrolyte, the electrode assembly consisting of a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separating film. The battery cell functions primarily through the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrode plates. The positive electrode plate includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer. The positive active material layer is coated onto the surface of the positive current collector. The portion of the positive current collector not coated with the positive active material layer extends beyond the coated portion. This portion of the positive current collector not coated with the positive active material layer serves as the positive electrode tab.Using lithium-ion batteries as an example, the material of the positive current collector can be aluminum, while the positive active material can be, among other things, cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, or lithium manganese oxide. The negative electrode plate comprises a negative current collector and a negative active material layer. The negative active material layer is coated onto the surface of the negative current collector. The portion of the negative current collector not coated with the negative active material layer extends beyond the coated portion. This uncoated portion serves as the negative electrode tab. The material of the negative current collector can be copper, while the negative active material can be, among other things, carbon or silicon.To ensure high current throughput without melting, several positive electrode tabs and several negative electrode tabs are stacked on top of each other. The separating film material can be, among other things, polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE). Furthermore, the electrode assembly can have either a wound or a laminated structure; the embodiments described in the present application are not limited to these.

[0066] In general battery cells, the electrode assembly must be electrically connected to the casing so that the casing can function as the positive or negative output terminal of the battery cell. Currently, establishing an electrical connection between the electrode assembly and the casing presents a challenge.

[0067] The inventors have determined that within the battery cell, the electrical connection between the electrode assembly and the housing is generally established by welding the bottom wall of the housing to the electrode assembly from the outside of the housing, since the housing is a hollow structure with an open top and the electrode assembly is electrically connected to the housing. Because the electrode assembly is located inside the housing, it is impossible to verify the quality of the weld between the electrode assembly and the bottom wall of the housing, which makes establishing an electrical connection between the electrode assembly and the housing inconvenient.

[0068] Against this background, the embodiment of the present application provides a battery cell in which the current collector component is located on the side of the electrode assembly facing the end cap. The electrode assembly is electrically connected to the housing via the current collector component, while the end cap covers the opening of the housing to create a tight connection between the end cap and the housing.

[0069] In such a battery cell, an electrical connection between the electrode assembly and the housing is established via the current collector component. During the assembly of the battery cell, the current collector component can be connected internally within the housing to the housing, with the end cap covering the opening of the housing and sealingly connecting it to the housing after the current collector component has been connected to the electrode assembly and to the housing, thereby facilitating the electrical connection between the electrode assembly and the housing.

[0070] The battery cell described in the embodiment of the present application is suitable for batteries and electrical devices that use such batteries.

[0071] Electrical devices can include vehicles, mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and power tools, etc. Vehicles can be fuel-powered, gas-powered, or new energy vehicles, with new energy vehicles being pure electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, or range-extender vehicles. Spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc. Electric toys include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric toy cars, electric toy boats, and electric toy airplanes, etc. Power tools include metal cutting tools, grinding tools, assembly tools, and railway tools, such as drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, impact drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers, etc.The embodiments of the present application do not impose any special restrictions on the aforementioned electrical devices.

[0072] To simplify the explanation, the electrical device will be described below using the example of a vehicle.

[0073] As in Fig. 1 shown, is Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of the structure of a vehicle 1000 in some embodiments of the present application. A battery 100 is arranged inside the vehicle 1000; the battery 1000 can be located at the bottom, at the front, or at the rear of the vehicle 1000. The battery 100 can be used to supply power to the vehicle 1000; for example, the battery 100 can serve as the operating current source for the vehicle 1000.

[0074] The vehicle 1000 can also include a control unit 200 and a motor 300, the control unit 200 being used to control the power supply to the motor 300 by the battery 100, for example for starting, navigation and operation of the vehicle 1000 while driving.

[0075] In some embodiments of the present application, the battery 100 can not only be used as an operating current source for the vehicle 1000, but can also be used as a drive current source for the vehicle 1000 in order to provide the drive power for the vehicle 1000 instead of or partially instead of fuel or natural gas.

[0076] As in Fig. 2 shown, is Fig. 2 In some embodiments, a schematic representation of the structure of a battery 100 in some embodiments of the present application, wherein the battery 100 comprises several battery cells 10. Several battery cells 10 can be connected together in series, in parallel, or in mixed configurations. Here, a mixed configuration means that several battery cells 10 are connected both in series and in parallel.

[0077] In some embodiments, the battery 100 may further comprise busbars. The multiple battery cells 10 may be electrically connected via the busbars in order to connect the multiple battery cells 10 in parallel, in series, or in a mixed configuration.

[0078] The busbars can be metallic conductors, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, aluminum alloys, etc.

[0079] In some embodiments, the battery cell 10 can further comprise a housing 20, the housing 20 being used to receive the battery cell 10. The housing 20 can comprise a first section 21 and a second section 22, the first section 21 and the second section 22 being superimposed to form a receiving space for the battery cell 10. Naturally, the connection between the first section 21 and the second section 22 can be sealed by means of a sealing element, which can be a sealing ring or a sealing compound.

[0080] The first section 21 and the second section 22 can have different shapes, for example, a rectangular shape or a cylinder. The first section 21 can be a hollow structure open on one side, and the second section 22 can also be a hollow structure open on one side. If the open side of the second section 22 covers the open side of the first section 21, a box 20 with a receiving space is formed. Alternatively, the first section 21 can be a hollow structure open on one side, while the second section 22 is a plate-like structure. If the second section 22 covers the open side of the first section 21, a box 20 with a receiving space is formed.

[0081] As in Fig. 3 shown, is Fig. Figure 3 shows an exploded view of a battery cell 10 in some embodiments of the present application. The battery cell 10 may comprise a housing 11, an electrode assembly 12, an end cap 13, a current collector component 14 and a sealing element 15.

[0082] The housing 11 is a component designed to hold the electrode assembly 12. The housing 11 can be a hollow structure with an opening at one end, or alternatively, it can be a hollow structure with openings at both ends. The material of the housing 11 can be various, for example, copper, iron, aluminum, steel, or an aluminum alloy. The housing 11 can have various shapes, for example, a cylinder, a rectangular shape, etc. For example, in Fig. 3 the housing 11 cylindrical, and the in Fig. Battery cell 10 shown in section 3 is a cylindrical battery 100.

[0083] The electrode assembly 12 is a component within the battery cell 10 in which electrochemical reactions take place. The electrode assembly 12 can comprise a main body section and an electrode tab, the electrode tab extending from the main body section such that it protrudes beyond the end of the main body section. The main body section can comprise a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separator film. The main body section can be a wound structure formed by winding the positive electrode plate, the separator film, and the negative electrode plate. Alternatively, the main body section can comprise a laminated structure formed by stacking a positive electrode plate, a separator film, and a negative electrode plate.

[0084] The positive electrode plate comprises a positive current collector and positive active material layers coated on opposite sides of the positive current collector. The negative electrode plate comprises a negative current collector and negative active material layers coated on opposite sides of the negative current collector. The main body section corresponds to the region of the electrode assembly 12 where the active material layer is coated onto the electrode plate, while the electrode tab forms the region of the electrode plate where no active material layer is coated. The electrode tab can be subdivided into a positive electrode tab and a negative electrode tab, with the positive electrode tab and the negative electrode tab each extending beyond the two ends of the main body section.

[0085] The end cap 13 is a component that covers the opening of the housing 11 to insulate the interior of the battery cell 10 from the external environment. The end cap 13 covers the opening of the housing 11 and, together with the housing 11, forms a sealed space for accommodating the electrode assembly 12, the electrolyte, and the current collector component 14. The shape of the end cap 13 can be adapted to the shape of the housing 11. For example, if the housing 11 has a cuboid structure, the end cap 13 can be a rectangular plate adapted to the housing 11. If the housing 11 has a cylindrical structure, the end cap 13 can also be a circular plate adapted to the housing 11. The material of the end cap 13 can vary, and it can be made of metals such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, or aluminum alloys.The material of the end cap 13 can be identical to or different from the material of the housing 11.

[0086] Within the battery cell 10, the end cap 13 can be either single or double. If the housing 11 has a hollow structure with an opening at one end, a single end cap 13 is provided; if the housing 11 is a hollow structure open at both ends, two end caps 13 are provided accordingly, with each end cap covering the two openings of the housing 11. Either the positive electrode tab or the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 12 is electrically connected to one end cap 13, while the other electrode tab is electrically connected to the housing 11. In the embodiment in which the housing 11 is a hollow structure with an opening at one end, an electrode terminal 16 (in Fig. (3 not shown) are arranged at the end of the housing 11 facing away from the end cap 13. The electrode terminal 16 is insulated from the housing 11. One of the positive electrode tabs and negative electrode tabs of the electrode assembly 12 is electrically connected to the housing 11, while the other electrode tab is electrically connected to the electrode terminal 16.

[0087] The current collector component 14 serves as a connecting element between the housing 11 and the electrode assembly 12 and establishes an electrical connection between the electrode assembly 12 and the housing 11. This configuration allows the housing 11 to function as an output terminal of the battery cell 10. In embodiments where the electrode assembly 12 is electrically connected to the electrode terminal 16, the positive or negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 12 can also be electrically connected to the electrode terminal 16 via a current collector component 14. For example, the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 12 can be electrically connected to the housing 11 via one current collector component 14, while the positive electrode tab of the electrode assembly 12 is electrically connected to the electrode terminal 16 via another current collector component 14.

[0088] The current collector component 14 can be metallic conductors, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, aluminum alloys, etc.

[0089] The sealing element 15 is positioned between the end cap 13 and the housing 11 to ensure a tight seal between them. The sealing element 15 can be made of various materials, such as rubber, plastic, etc.

[0090] As in Fig. 4 shown, is Fig. 4 a sectional view of battery cell 10 in Fig. 3. The embodiment of the present application provides a battery cell 10, wherein the battery cell 10 comprises a housing 11, an electrode assembly 12, an end cap 13, and a current collector component 14. The housing 11 has an opening. The electrode assembly 12 is housed in the housing 11. The end cap 13 covers the opening and is sealed to the housing 11. The current collector component 14 is housed in the housing 11 and is located on one side of the electrode assembly 12 facing the end cap 13, wherein the current collector component 14 is configured to connect the housing 11 and the electrode assembly 12 in order to electrically connect the electrode assembly 12 to the housing 11.

[0091] The current collector component 14 serves as the component that establishes the electrical connection between the electrode assembly 12 and the housing 11. The current collector component 14 connects both the electrode assembly 12 and the housing 11. The current collector component 14 is connected to the electrode assembly 12. The current collector component 14 can be connected to either the positive electrode tab or the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 12. The connection between the current collector component 14 and the electrode assembly 12 can be such that both are permanently joined, for example, by welding the current collector component 14 to the positive electrode tab or the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 12.Alternatively, the two can simply rest against each other and make contact, for example, by the current collector component 14 and the positive or negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 12 resting against each other and making contact. The connection between the current collector component 14 and the housing 11 can be such that they are firmly connected to each other, for example, by welding the current collector component 14 to the housing 11, or the two can simply rest against each other and make contact.

[0092] In the embodiment of the present application, the current collector component 14 is located on the side of the electrode assembly 12 facing the end cap 13. The electrode assembly 12 is electrically connected to the housing 11 via the current collector component 14. The end cap 13 covers the opening of the housing 11 and is sealed to the housing 11. This structural battery cell 10 establishes an electrical connection between the electrode assembly 12 and the housing 11 via the current collector component 14. Internally, the current collector component 14 can be connected to the housing 11. After the current collector component 14 is connected to the electrode assembly 12 and the housing 11, the end cap 13 covers the opening of the housing 11 and seals it to the housing 11, thus facilitating the electrical connection between the electrode assembly 12 and the housing 11.

[0093] In a typical battery cell 10, the bottom wall of the housing 11 is welded to the electrode tab. During the welding process between the bottom wall of the housing 11 and the electrode tab, the bottom wall of the housing 11 can be easily punctured. This can lead to electrolyte leakage and impair the performance of the battery cell 10. In the embodiment of the present application, the electrode assembly 12 is electrically connected to the housing 11 via the current collector component 14, while the end cap 13 is sealed to the housing 11. The electrode assembly 12 is not directly connected to the end cap 13, thereby reducing the likelihood of electrolyte leakage from the end cap 13 of the battery cell 10.

[0094] For example, the current collector component 14 connects the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 12 to the housing 11, allowing the housing 11 to function as the negative output terminal of the battery cell 10. The electrode terminal 16 at one end of the housing 11, furthest from the end cap 13, is electrically connected to the positive electrode tab of the electrode assembly 12, allowing the electrode terminal 16 to function as the positive output terminal of the battery cell 10.

[0095] In some embodiments, the current collector component 14 is welded to the housing 11. The connection method between the current collector component 14 and the housing 11 is simple, which ensures a robust connection between the current collector component 14 and the housing 11 and thereby enables a stable current flow between the current collector component 14 and the housing 11.

[0096] When welding the current collector component 14 to the housing 11, the welding can be performed externally on the housing 11, for example, by using a through-welding process to weld the current collector component 14 to the housing 11 from the outside; alternatively, the welding can be performed internally within the housing 11. If the welding is performed externally on the housing 11, the weld section 17 formed after welding the current collector component 14 to the housing 11 is located externally on the housing 11; if the welding is performed internally on the housing 11, the weld section 17 formed after welding the current collector component 14 to the housing 11 is located internally within the housing 11.

[0097] In some embodiments, the current collector component 14 is welded to the housing 11 to form a weld section 17, wherein the weld section 17 serves to fasten the current collector component 14 and the housing 11, the weld section 17 being located inside the housing 11.

[0098] The weld section 17 serves to attach the current collector component 14 to the housing 11; that is, the current collector component 14 is attached to the housing 11 by the weld section 17. The weld section 17 can consist of solder joining the current collector component 14 and the housing 11, or it can form a fused section in which the current collector component 14 and the housing 11 are fused together.

[0099] For example, consider a steel housing 11. If the weld section 17 formed by welding the current collector component 14 to the housing 11 is located on the outside of the housing 11, the welding process between the current collector component 14 and the housing 11 can damage the outer protective layer of the housing 11, potentially leading to corrosion.

[0100] In the embodiment of the present application, the weld section 17 formed by welding the current collector component 14 to the housing 11 is located inside the housing 11. This reduces the risk of damage to the outer structure of the housing 11 from welding the current collector component 14 to the housing 11 when the weld section 17 is located on the outside of the housing 11, thereby reducing the risk of corrosion of the housing 11 and increasing the service life of the battery cell 10.

[0101] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, in some embodiments a first limiting section 112 projects from the inside 111 of the housing 11, the first limiting section 112 being used to limit the movement of the end cap 13 in the direction facing the electrode assembly 12. The current collector component 14 is welded to the first limiting section 112.

[0102] The inner surface 111 of the housing 11 refers to the inner surface of the side wall of the housing 11, extending along the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13. The first limiting section 112 is a structure projecting from the inner surface 111 of the housing 11 to limit the movement of the end cap 13 in the direction facing the electrode assembly 12. The first limiting section 112 can be formed integrally with the housing 11 or formed separately and subsequently connected to it.

[0103] In this embodiment, the first limiting section 112 acts as a limiting function for the end cap 13, and the first limiting section 112 can limit the movement of the end cap 13 in the direction facing the electrode assembly 12. The current collector component 14 is welded to the first limiting section 112, which acts as a limiting function for the end cap 13, thereby making effective use of the first limiting section 112 and facilitating the welding and fastening of the current collector component 14.

[0104] As in Fig. 5 shown, is in some embodiments Fig. Figure 5 shows a partial view of the battery cell 10 in some embodiments of the present application. The current collector component 14 comprises a main body section 141 for connecting to the electrode assembly 12, wherein the main body section 141 is arranged on the side of the first limiting section 112 facing the electrode assembly 12, the first limiting section 112 being configured to prevent the main body section 141 from detaching from the housing 11 in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12.

[0105] The main body section 141 forms the section where the current collector component 14 is connected to the electrode assembly 12. For example, the main body section 141 can be welded to the negative electrode tab of the electrode assembly 12. The entire current collector component 14 can form the main body section 141, or a part of the current collector component 14 can form the main body section 141. For example, in Fig. 5 the entire current collector component 14 the main body section 141.

[0106] The first limiting section 112 acts as a limiting function for the main body section 141. The first limiting section 112 can prevent the main body section 141 from detaching from the housing 11 in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12. The first limiting section 112 can separate the end cap 13 and the main body section 141, thereby making it less likely that the main body section 141 will compromise the seal between the end cap 13 and the housing 11, thus ensuring a tight seal between the end cap 13 and the housing 11.

[0107] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, in some embodiments the main body section 141 lies against the side of the first limiting section 112 facing the electrode assembly 12 and is welded to the first limiting section 112.

[0108] The main body section 141 rests against the side of the first limiting section 112 facing the electrode assembly 12, which means that the main body section 141 rests against the end surface of the first limiting section 112 facing the electrode assembly 12, the first limiting section 112 serving to prevent the main body section 141 from moving in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12.

[0109] In this embodiment, the main body section 141 rests against the side of the first limiting section 112 facing the electrode assembly 12 and is welded to the first limiting section 112. This ensures that the entire current collector component 14 exhibits excellent rigidity after being attached to the first limiting section 112. Furthermore, this increases the contact area between the current collector component 14 and the first limiting section 112, thereby increasing the current flow area between the housing 11 and the current collector component 14.

[0110] For example, the main body section 141 shows in Fig. 5 an outer surface 1412 facing away from the electrode assembly 12 along the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13. The first boundary section 112 has an inner circumferential surface 1121, wherein the weld section 17, which is formed by welding the main body section 141 to the first boundary section 112, connects the outer surface 1412 of the main body section 141 to the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112.

[0111] As in Fig. As shown in 6, in some embodiments Fig. Figure 6 shows a partial view of the battery cell 10 in some further embodiments of the present application. The current collector component 14 further comprises an elastic section 142, wherein the elastic section 142 is connected to the main body section 141, wherein the elastic section 142 abuts the first limiting section 112 and is welded to the first limiting section 112.

[0112] The elastic section 142 forms the portion of the current collector component 14 that is connected to the main body section 141 and is capable of elastic deformation. In the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13, the elastic section 142 is located on the side of the main body section 141 facing the first boundary section 112. The elastic section 142 and the main body section 141 can be formed in one piece or formed separately and then joined together. The number of elastic sections 142 within the current collector component 14 can be one or more. If the current collector component 14 comprises multiple elastic sections 142, these sections can be spaced at intervals along the circumferential direction of the main body section 141.

[0113] In this embodiment, the elastic section 142 of the current collector component 14 rests against the first limiting section 112 and is welded to it. The elastic section 142 can deform elastically in response to changes in the distance between the main body section 141 and the first limiting section 112. This reduces the risk of the electrode assembly 12 shifting within the housing 11 due to vibrations of the battery cell 10, thus preventing a failure of the electrical connection between the main body section 141 and the electrode assembly 12.

[0114] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, in some embodiments the elastic section 142 comprises a spring plate which is bent and arranged on the main body section 141. This structure of the elastic section 142 is simple and has excellent deformability and ensures a larger contact area between the elastic section 142 and the first boundary section 112.

[0115] In other embodiments, the elastic section 142 can comprise other structures; for example, the elastic section 142 can be a spring structure connected to the main body section 141.

[0116] As in Fig. As shown in 7, in some embodiments the Fig. 7 a partial view of battery cell 10 in Fig. 4. The current collector component 14 further comprises a first connecting section 143, wherein the first connecting section 143 is connected to the main body section 141, wherein the first connecting section 143 extends at least partially to the inner circumferential side of the first limiting section 112, and the first connecting section 143 is welded to the first limiting section 112.

[0117] The first connecting section 143 is the section welded between the current collector component 14 and the first boundary section 112, with at least part of this section extending to the inner circumferential side of the first boundary section 112. For example, in the case of the first boundary section 112 with inner circumferential surface 1121, the first connecting section 143 extends at least partially to the inner circumferential side of the first boundary section 112, i.e., the first connecting section 143 extends at least partially into the space formed by the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112.

[0118] In this embodiment, the first connecting section 143 is welded to the first limiting section 112. Since part of the first connecting section 143 of the current collector component 14 extends to the inner circumferential side of the first limiting section 112, the first connecting section 143 and the first limiting section 112 can be welded directly together, thus reducing the difficulty of welding the current collector component 14 to the first limiting section 112.

[0119] It should be noted that the main body section 141 of the current collector component 14 can either be in contact with the side of the first limiting section 112 facing the electrode assembly 12, or alternatively, the main body section 141 can be spaced from the first limiting section 112 in the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13 when the first connecting section 143 of the current collector component 14 is welded to the first limiting section 112. Fig. 7 the main body section 141 lies against the side of the first boundary section 112 facing the electrode assembly 12, thereby increasing the current flow area between the current collector component 14 and the housing 11.

[0120] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, in some embodiments the first connecting section 143 is a projection extending from the main body section 141 in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12, wherein the projection is designed to form a fit with the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112.

[0121] The projection forms a fit with the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112, wherein the outer circumferential surface of the projection touches the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112 to prevent the projection from fluctuating perpendicular to the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13.

[0122] In this embodiment, the first connecting section 143 is a projection that forms a fit with the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first limiting section 112. This fit between the projection and the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first limiting section 112 reduces the risk of vibrations of the current collector component 14 that can occur during the welding process between the first connecting section 143 and the first limiting section 112. This reduces welding difficulty and improves the robustness after welding between the first connecting section 143 and the first limiting section 112. Simultaneously, this increases the contact area between the housing 11 and the current collector component 14, thereby increasing the current flow area between the housing 11 and the current collector component 14.

[0123] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, in some embodiments the main body section 141 has an inner surface 1411 facing the electrode assembly 12 and an outer surface 1412 facing away from the electrode assembly 12. The projection extends from the outer surface 1412 of the main body section 141 in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12. The current collector component 14 further comprises a recess 144, wherein the recess 144 is recessed from the inner surface 1411 of the main body section 141 towards the projection in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12.

[0124] The arrangement of the recess 144 on the current collector component 14 reduces, firstly, the material requirement for the current collector component 14 and thus lowers the manufacturing costs; secondly, it improves the deformability of the projection. This allows the projection to bear elastically against the first limiting section 112, thereby ensuring reliable contact between the projection and the first limiting section 112.

[0125] In some embodiments, both the projection and the recess 144 are ring-shaped structures that extend circumferentially along the first boundary section 112.

[0126] Both the projection and the recess 144 are annular structures, giving the projection excellent deformability. If the projection is subjected to a radial force exerted by the first limiting section 112, it can contract and deform towards its central position. This allows the projection to form a tighter fit with the first limiting section 112, ensuring good contact between the projection and the first limiting section 112.

[0127] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, in some embodiments the end of the first connecting section 143 facing away from the main body section 141 does not extend beyond the first limiting section 112 in the direction in which the first connecting section 143 extends from the main body section 141 in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12.

[0128] The end of the first connecting section 143 facing away from the main body section 141 does not extend beyond the first boundary section 112; that is, the end of the first connecting section 143 facing away from the main body section 141 is located within the first boundary section 112. It is understood that, in the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13, the end of the first connecting section 143 facing away from the main body section 141 is closer to the electrode assembly 12 than the end face of the end of the first boundary section 112 facing away from the electrode assembly 12.

[0129] In this embodiment, the end of the first connecting section 143 facing away from the main body section 141 does not extend beyond the first limiting section 112. Consequently, it is unlikely that the first connecting section 143 will interfere with the end cap 13, thus ensuring a tight seal between the end cap 13 and the housing 11.

[0130] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, in some embodiments the first connecting section 143 is welded to the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first limiting section 112, wherein the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first limiting section 112 comprises a limiting position 1121a and the radial dimension of the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first limiting section 112 gradually increases from the limiting position 1121a to both ends of the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first limiting section 112. The end of the first connecting section 143 facing away from the main body section 141 extends beyond the limiting position 1121a in the direction in which the first connecting section 143 extends from the main body section 141 away from the electrode assembly 12.

[0131] In the foregoing description, the two ends of the inner circumferential surface 1121 refer to the two ends of the inner circumferential surface 1121 in the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13.

[0132] The radial dimension of the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112 gradually increases from the boundary position 1121a to both ends of the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112, thus forming a tapered structure in the middle with larger ends of the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112. For example, the line of intersection between the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112 and its axial cross-section forms an arc shape, the axial cross-section running parallel to the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13.

[0133] In this embodiment, the end of the first connecting section 143 facing away from the main body section 141 extends beyond the limiting position 1121a, thus forming a weld seam between the outer circumferential surface of the first connecting section 143 and the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first limiting section 112. This facilitates the welding and fastening of the first connecting section 143 to the first limiting section 112.

[0134] For example, in Fig. 7 the weld section 17 formed by welding the first connecting section 143 to the first boundary section 112 within the weld seam formed between the first connecting section 143 and the first boundary section 112.

[0135] As in Fig. 8 shown, is Fig. Figure 8 shows a partial view of the battery cell 10 in some embodiments of the present application, wherein the first connecting section 143 may comprise an extension segment 1431 and a limiting segment 1432. The extension segment 1431 is connected to the main body section 141, the extension segment 1431 extending from the main body section 141 in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12, and the extension segment 1431 extending at least partially to the inner circumferential side of the first limiting section 112. The limiting segment 1432 is connected to the extension segment 1431, the limiting segment 1432 abutting the side of the first limiting section 112 facing away from the electrode assembly 12 and being welded to the first limiting section 112.

[0136] The extension segment 1431 forms the section extending from the first connecting section 143 to the interior of the first limiting section 112, while the limiting segment 1432 represents the welded section between the first connecting section 143 and the first limiting section 112. The extension segment 1431 extends at least partially toward the inner circumferential side of the first limiting section 112, while the limiting segment 1432 abuts the side of the first limiting section 112 facing away from the electrode assembly 12. This arrangement causes the first connecting section 143 to engage with the first limiting section 112, thereby ensuring that the main body section 141 of the current collector component 14 rests firmly against the first limiting section 112.For example, the extension segment 1431 has a tubular structure, and the boundary segment 1432 is an annular structure located at one end of the extension segment 1431 that is furthest from the main body section 141. The boundary segment 1432 can be welded to the first boundary section 112 using a through-welding process.

[0137] In this embodiment, the limiting segment 1432 rests against the side of the first limiting section 112 facing away from the electrode assembly 12 and is welded to the first limiting section 112. The limiting segment 1432 acts as a limiting function, increases the strength after welding between the current collector component 14 and the first limiting section 112, and enlarges the contact area between the current collector component 14 and the first limiting section 112 in order to increase the current flow area between the housing 11 and the current collector component 14.

[0138] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 5 to 8, in some embodiments the first limiting section 112 is an annular structure extending circumferentially around the housing 11. This first limiting section 112 can be easily formed and manufactured. The entire circumference of the first limiting section 112 can restrict the end cap 13, thus ensuring the limiting capability of the first limiting section 112 to the end cap 13.

[0139] In some embodiments, a rolling groove 113 is arranged on the outside of the housing 11 at a position corresponding to the first limiting section 112.

[0140] The first boundary section 112 is formed during the forming of the rolling groove 113 at a position where the housing 11 corresponds to the rolling groove 113, thus simplifying the forming process of the first boundary section 112. After the formation of the first boundary section 112 by forming the rolling groove 113, the radial dimension of the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112 gradually increases from the boundary position 1121a to both ends of the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first boundary section 112.

[0141] In the embodiment in which the first limiting section 112 is an annular structure extending in the circumferential direction of the housing 11, the rolling groove 113 can alternatively be an annular structure extending in the axial direction of the housing 11.

[0142] In some embodiments, the battery cell 10 further comprises a sealing element 15, wherein the end cap 13 is tightly connected to the housing 11 via the sealing element 15 to ensure the sealing performance between the end cap 13 and the housing 11.

[0143] The sealing element 15 can be made of materials such as rubber or plastic.

[0144] In some embodiments, the sealing element 15 is configured to insulate the housing 11 from the end cap 13. The sealing element 15 performs both a sealing and an insulating function between the housing 11 and the end cap 13, thereby ensuring the sealing performance between the end cap 13 and the housing 11 while simultaneously reducing the risk of electrification of the end cap 13.

[0145] In some embodiments, the sealing element 15 is configured to circumferentially enclose the end cap 13 along the opening of the housing 11. This structure improves, firstly, the sealing performance of the sealing element 15 with respect to the end cap 13 and the housing 11, and secondly, it improves the integrity between the sealing element 15 and the housing 11. During the assembly of the battery cell 10, the sealing element 15 can first be wrapped around the end cap 13, and then the end cap 13 and the sealing element 15 can be installed as an integrated unit in the housing 11.

[0146] In some embodiments, a second limiting section 114 is arranged at one end of the opening of the housing 11, the second limiting section 114 being used to limit the release of the end cap 13 from the housing 11 in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12. In the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13, at least a portion of the sealing element 15 is provided between the end cap 13 and the second limiting section 114 to achieve a tight connection between the end cap 13 and the housing 11.

[0147] The second limiting section 114 serves to limit the end cap 13 and prevent it from detaching from the housing 11 in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12. The second limiting section 114 interacts with the first limiting section 112 to restrict the movement of the end cap 13 in the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13, thereby confining the end cap 13 to the end of the housing 11 with an opening. Since at least part of the sealing element 15 is provided between the end cap 13 and the second limiting section 114, a tight connection between the end cap 13 and the housing 11 is achieved, ensuring a good seal between the end cap 13 and the housing 11.

[0148] For example, the second limiting section 114 can include a crimped structure formed by partially folding the housing 11 inwards. This folding of the housing 11 allows the formation of the second limiting section 114 at the opening of the housing 11. During the assembly of the battery cell 10, the electrode assembly 12 and the current collector component 14 can first be placed in the housing 11. Subsequently, the housing 11 undergoes machining of the roll groove 113 to form the first limiting section 112, after which the end cap 13 and the sealing element 15 abut the first limiting section 112. Finally, the second limiting section 114 is formed by folding the housing 11 to confine the end cap 13.

[0149] In some embodiments, the sealing element 15 comprises a covering 151 and a second connecting section 152, wherein the second connecting section 152 is connected to the covering 151. At least a portion of the end cap 13 is located within the covering 151, with the second connecting section 152 being provided in the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13 between the end cap 13 and the second limiting section 114 to achieve a tight connection between the end cap 13 and the housing 11.

[0150] The covering 151 surrounds the outer circumference of the end cap 13, allowing the sealing element 15 to wrap around the end cap 13 along the opening of the housing 11 in a circumferential direction. For example, the end cap 13 presses the covering 151 against the inner surface 111 of the housing 11, with both the covering 151 and the second limiting section 114 fulfilling a sealing function.

[0151] Since in this embodiment at least part of the end cap 13 is located within the casing 151, the second connecting section 152 is provided between the end cap 13 and the limiting section. The sealing element 15 has a simple structure, which ensures a good seal between the end cap 13 and the housing 11 while simultaneously guaranteeing excellent integrity between the sealing element 15 and the end cap 13.

[0152] In some embodiments, the sealing element 15 may further comprise a third connecting section 153. The third connecting section 153 is connected to the casing 151, with the third connecting section 153 abutting the first limiting section 112. The third connecting section 153 and the second connecting section 152 each abut both ends of the end cap 13 in the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13. This prevents the sealing element 15 from moving relative to the end cap 13 in the thickness direction Z of the end cap 13, thereby ensuring excellent integrity between the sealing element 15 and the end cap 13.

[0153] For example, both the first connecting section 143 and the second connecting section 152 are a ring-shaped structure.

[0154] Furthermore, the embodiment of the present application provides a battery 100 comprising several battery cells 10 provided by one of the embodiments.

[0155] The embodiment of the present application provides an electrical device comprising several battery cells 10, which are provided by one of the embodiments.

[0156] The electrical device can be any device that uses the aforementioned 100 battery.

[0157] Furthermore, the present embodiment of the present application, with reference to the Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 7 provides a battery cell 10 comprising a housing 11, an electrode assembly 12, an end cap 13, and a current collector component 14. The housing 11 has an opening with a rolled groove 113 arranged on the outside of the housing 11. At the position corresponding to the rolled groove 113, the housing 11 forms a first limiting section 112 projecting from the inside 111 of the housing 11. The electrode assembly 12 comprises a negative electrode tab and a positive electrode tab, the electrode assembly 12 being housed within the housing 11. The end cap 13 covers the opening of the housing 11 and is sealed to the housing 11. The first limiting section 112 restricts the movement of the end cap 13 in the direction facing the electrode assembly 12.The current collector component 14 is configured to connect the negative electrode tab to the housing 11, thereby electrically connecting the electrode assembly 12 to the housing 11. The housing 11 is provided with an electrode terminal 16 at the end furthest from the end cap 13, the electrode terminal 16 being electrically connected to the positive electrode tab.

[0158] The current collector component 14 comprises a main body section 141 and a first connecting section 143. The main body section 141 is located on the side of the first limiting section 112 facing the electrode assembly 12 and rests against the first limiting section 112. The first connecting section 143 is connected to the main body section 141 and extends to the inner circumferential surface of the first limiting section 112. The first connecting section 143 fits the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first limiting section 112 and is welded to the inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first limiting section 112.The inner circumferential surface 1121 of the first connecting section 143 has a limiting position 1121a, wherein the radial dimension of the inner circumferential surface 1121 gradually increases from the limiting position 1121a to both ends of the inner circumferential surface 1121. The end of the first connecting section 143 facing away from the 141 extends beyond the limiting position 1121a and not beyond the first limiting section 112 in the direction in which the first connecting section 143 extends from the main body section 141 in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12. The main body section 141 has an inner surface 1411 facing the electrode assembly 12 and an outer surface 1412 facing away from the electrode assembly 12, wherein the first connecting section 143 is a projection extending from the outer surface 1412 of the main body section 141 in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12.The current collector component 14 is provided with a recess 144, wherein the recess 144 is recessed in a direction away from the electrode assembly 12, from the inner surface 1411 of the main body section 141 towards the projection. Both the projection and the recess 144 are annular structures that extend circumferentially along the first boundary section 112.

[0159] In such a battery cell 10, the current collector component 14 can be conveniently welded to the housing 11 before the end cap 13 is covered over the opening of the housing 11. This facilitates the electrical connection between the electrode assembly 12 and the housing 11 and ensures a stable, high current flow over a large area between the current collector component 14 and the housing 11, thereby guaranteeing the operating performance of the battery cell 10.

[0160] The embodiment of the present application represents a manufacturing process for battery cell 10. As in Fig. As shown in 9, in some embodiments of the present application Fig. 9 a flowchart of the manufacturing process of the battery cell 10 in some embodiments of the present application, wherein the manufacturing process comprises the following: S100: Providing a housing 11, wherein the housing 11 has an opening; S200: Providing an electrode assembly 12; S300: Providing an end cap 13; S400: Providing a power collector component 14; S500: Connecting the current collector component 14 to the electrode assembly 12; S600: Housing the electrode assembly 12 and the current collector component 14 in the housing 11; S700: Covering the opening of the housing 11 with the end cap 13 and creating a tight connection between the end cap 13 and the housing 11, so that the current collector component 14 is located on the side of the electrode assembly 12 facing the end cap 13.

[0161] The housing 11 and the electrode assembly 12 are electrically connected via the current collector component 14.

[0162] In the procedure described above, the order of steps S100, S200, S300, and S400 is not restricted. For example, step S400 can be executed first, followed by step S300, then step S200, and finally step S100.

[0163] It should be noted that the relevant structure of the battery cell 10, which was manufactured according to the manufacturing process provided in the above-mentioned embodiments, can be found in the battery cells 10 provided in the above-mentioned embodiments and is not repeated here.

[0164] In some embodiments, the manufacturing process further comprises welding the current collector component 14 to the housing 11 from inside the housing 11 before covering the opening with the end cap 13.

[0165] The embodiment of the present application also provides a manufacturing plant 2000 for battery cell 10. As in Fig. As shown in 10, in some embodiments of the present application Fig.Figure 10 shows a schematic representation of the structure of a manufacturing plant 2000 for the battery cell 10 in some embodiments of the present application. The manufacturing plant 2000 comprises a first staging device 2100, a second staging device 2200, a third staging device 2300, a fourth staging device 2400 and an assembly device 2500.

[0166] The first staging device 2100 is used to stag a housing 11, the housing 11 having an opening. The second staging device 2200 is used to stag an electrode assembly 12. The third staging device 2300 is used to stag an end cap 13. The fourth staging device 2400 is used to stag a current collector component 14.A mounting device 2500 is used to connect the current collector component 14 to the electrode assembly 12, wherein the mounting device 2500 is further used to receive the electrode assembly 12 and the current collector component 14 within the housing 11, wherein the mounting device 2500 is also used to cover the opening with the end cap 13 and to create a tight connection between the end cap 13 and the housing 11, so that the current collector component 14 is located on the side of the electrode assembly 12 facing the end cap 13. The housing 11 and the electrode assembly 12 are electrically connected via the current collector component 14.

[0167] It should be noted that the relevant structure of the battery cell 10, which was produced by the manufacturing plant 2000 provided in the above-mentioned embodiments, can be found in the battery cells 10 provided in the above-mentioned embodiments and is not repeated here.

[0168] It should be noted that the embodiments and features in the embodiments of the present application can be combined without causing conflicts.

[0169] The above examples serve only to describe the technical solutions of the present application and are not intended to limit the present application. The present application is subject to various amendments and variations for technical personnel in this field. Any amendment, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present application falls within the scope of protection of the present application. Reference symbol: 10 battery cells; 11 cases; 111 Inside; 112 First boundary section; 1121 Inner circumferential surface; 1121a Limit position; 113 Roll groove; 114 Second boundary section; 12 Electrode assembly; 13 End cap; 14 Current collector component; 141 Main body section; 1411 interior surface area; 1412 outdoor area; 142 Elastic section; 143 First connecting section; 1431 Extension segment; 1432 Boundary segment; 144 Exclusion; 15 Sealing element; 151 Envelope; 152 Second connecting section; 153 Third connecting section; 16 electrode connections; 17 Welding section; 20 boxes; 21 First Section; 22 Second Section; 100 batteries; 200 control; 300 engine; 1000 vehicles; 2000 manufacturing plant; 2100 First provisioning device; 2200 Second provisioning device; 2300 Third provisioning device; 2400 Fourth provisioning device; 2500 Mounting device; Z Thickness direction. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] PCT / CN2021 / 104779

[0001]

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