End cap assembly, battery and power consumer

Abstract

An end cap assembly, a battery, and a power consuming device are provided. The end cap assembly (21) is used in a battery and includes an end cap (211), a vent valve (215), and a protective patch (217). The end cap (211) has a first side facing the inside of the battery and a second side opposite to the first side, and includes a first passage (2113) connecting the first side and the second side, the vent valve (215) includes a vent membrane (2152) in gas communication with the first passage (2113), the vent membrane (2152) includes a vent portion (2152A) that opens toward the second side of the end cap (211), and the protective patch (217) is installed on the second side of the end cap (211) and covers the vent portion (2152A). The battery includes the end cap assembly. The power consuming device includes the battery.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to the field of battery technology, and more particularly to end cap assemblies, batteries, and power consuming devices. [Background technology]

[0002] In the related art, a vent valve may be installed in the end cap assembly of a battery cell to balance the internal and external pressure of the battery cell and protect the internal devices. Under the action of a pressure difference, the gas inside and outside the battery cell passes through the gas passage of the vent valve, permeates the vent membrane, replenishes the gas, and maintains the pressure balance between the gas inside and outside the battery cell.

[0003] In the process of realizing this disclosure, the inventors discovered that during the battery cell assembly process, foreign matter such as slag generated during the welding process and liquid ejected during the injection process can contaminate the vent valve and affect the ventilation effect. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides an end cap assembly, a battery, and a power consumer for providing protection to a vent valve and improving the venting effectiveness of the vent valve.

[0005] A first aspect of the present disclosure provides an end cap assembly for use with a battery. The end cap assembly includes an end cap, a vent valve, and a protective patch. The end cap has a first side facing the interior of the battery and a second side opposite the first side, and includes a first passageway connecting the first side and the second side. The vent valve includes a vent membrane in gas communication with the first passageway. The vent membrane includes a vent portion that opens toward the second side of the end cap. The protective patch is attached to the second side of the end cap and covers the vent portion.

[0006] The end cap assembly according to the present disclosure is provided with a protective patch, which is advantageous in that it covers the vent portion of the vent membrane toward the second side of the end cap and prevents the vent membrane from being contaminated by slag or electrolyte. Therefore, the vent membrane of the vent valve in this end cap assembly can be protected by the protective patch, which improves the venting effect of the vent valve and better realizes the function of balancing the internal and external pressure of the battery cell and protecting the internal devices.

[0007] In some embodiments, the end cap assembly includes a second passageway between the protective patch and the end cap that is in gas communication with the vent membrane.

[0008] A second passageway is provided between the patch body and the end cap, which is in gas communication with the ventilation membrane, allowing airflow through the ventilation membrane of the ventilation valve to smoothly enter and exit the battery cell.

[0009] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly, the end cap includes a vent valve mounting groove, the vent valve is located within the vent valve mounting groove, the first passage is located in a bottom wall of the vent valve mounting groove, and the second passage is in communication with the vent valve mounting groove, wherein an opening of the vent valve mounting groove is located on a first side of the end cap or an opening of the vent valve mounting groove is located on a second side of the end cap.

[0010] The vent membrane is attached to the valve plate, which provides protection and support for the vent membrane and is advantageous in reducing the adverse effects of providing the first passage in the end cap. The vent valve plate and vent membrane are placed in the vent valve mounting groove, which prevents the vent valve from affecting the breathability of the vent valve and minimizes the thickness of the end cap, which is advantageous in reducing the overall height of the end cap assembly and the battery.

[0011] In some embodiments, the end cap assembly further includes a valve plate, the valve plate being attached to the end cap and having a third passage extending through two sides of the valve plate, and the vent membrane being fixed to the valve plate and covering the third passage. The vent valve mounting groove is a stepped groove including a first groove portion and a second groove portion. The first groove portion is adjacent to a bottom wall of the vent valve mounting groove, and the vent membrane is located within the first groove portion and has a gap with the bottom wall. The second groove portion is connected to the first groove portion and forms a stepped surface at the connection point, and the valve plate is located within the second groove portion and abuts against the stepped surface.

[0012] This arrangement is advantageous in that the breathable membrane is fluidly connected to the first passage and the third passage, and is advantageous in that the breathable membrane stably achieves the function of balancing the internal and external pressures of the battery cell.

[0013] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly, the height of the first groove is 0.1-0.5 mm greater than the thickness of the vent membrane and / or the height of the second groove is equal to or 0.5 mm or less greater than the thickness of the valve plate.

[0014] Rationalizing the relationship between the height of the first groove and the thickness of the vent membrane is advantageous in maintaining smooth communication between the vent membrane and the first passage, and rationalizing the relationship between the height of the second groove and the thickness of the valve plate is advantageous in reducing the amount of extra space occupied by the vent valve other than the thickness of the end plate and in reducing the adverse effects on the end plate caused by machining the vent valve mounting groove.

[0015] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly, the end cap includes an end cap body, and the vent valve mounting groove is located in the end cap body, wherein the end cap further includes a boss located on the end cap body and protruding toward a second side of the end cap, the second passage including a communicating groove or a communicating hole located in the boss, and / or a vent groove located on the end cap body, located on the second side of the end cap, and communicating with the vent valve mounting groove, the second passage including the vent groove.

[0016] By providing a boss and providing a communicating groove or communicating hole in the boss as at least a part of the second passage, or by providing a ventilation groove as at least a part of the second passage, it is advantageous to realize the second passage with a simple structure and processing method, and the ventilation function of the ventilation membrane remains unaffected by the protective patch.

[0017] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly, the boss height is 0.1-0.5 mm, and / or the boss is located outside the vent valve mounting groove, and the distance between the edge of the boss closest to the vent valve mounting groove and the edge of the vent valve mounting groove is 0.5-3 mm.

[0018] By rationally setting the height of the boss, the height occupied by the vent valve can be minimized, which is advantageous for ensuring smooth airflow through the vent valve between the inside and outside of the battery cell. By rationally setting the relative positions of the boss and the vent valve mounting groove, the vent valve can be easily operated during assembly and maintenance, and an operating space can be provided for laser welding when installing the valve plate, for example.

[0019] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly, the depth of the ventilation groove is 0.05-0.3 mm and / or the distance between the edge of the ventilation groove located outside the protective patch and the edge of the protective patch is 0.1-0.5 mm.

[0020] By rationally setting the depth of the ventilation groove and the distance between it and the protective patch, it is advantageous to ensure that the airflow inside and outside the battery cell can flow smoothly when passing through the ventilation valve.

[0021] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly, the protective patch includes a patch body that covers the ventilation portion and a fixing adhesive layer, the fixing adhesive layer being disposed on a side of the patch body facing the end cap, and the patch body being attached to a second side of the end cap via the fixing adhesive layer.

[0022] By providing the patch body and the fixing adhesive layer on the protective patch and fixedly connecting the patch body via the fixing adhesive layer, it is advantageous for fast and secure attachment of the protective patch.

[0023] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly, the fixing adhesive layer is attached to a certain area of the patch body, wherein the area of the patch body to which the fixing adhesive layer is not attached is transparent, and / or the area of the patch body to which the fixing adhesive layer is attached and / or the fixing adhesive layer is colored.

[0024] The area of the patch body where the fixing adhesive layer is not attached is transparent, which is advantageous for observing whether there is any foreign matter on the surface of the ventilation valve facing the second side of the end cap assembly, and facilitating timely detection of problems with the ventilation valve. The area of the patch body where the fixing adhesive layer is attached and / or the fixing adhesive layer are colored, which is advantageous for quickly identifying whether a protective patch is installed on the end cap assembly, and prevents the ventilation membrane from being left unprotected due to insufficient application.

[0025] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly, the securing adhesive layer is located at the edge of the patch body and / or the securing adhesive layer avoids the second passageway.

[0026] By positioning the fixing adhesive layer on the edge of the patch body, the amount of fixing adhesive used can be reduced without affecting the adhesive effect, and since the fixing adhesive layer avoids the second passage, it is advantageous to prevent dust from adhering and accumulating at the location of the second passage, thereby maintaining communication with the second passage.

[0027] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly, the protective patch includes a patch body that covers the vent, the patch body being made of polyethylene terephthalate, and / or the patch body having a thickness of 0.1-0.2 mm.

[0028] By manufacturing the patch body from polyethylene terephthalate and / or by setting an appropriate thickness for the patch body, foreign substances such as electrolyte, water vapor, and dust can be effectively blocked.

[0029] In some example end cap assemblies, the end cap includes a patch mounting groove, and the protective patch is positioned within the patch mounting groove.

[0030] By attaching the protective patch in the patch attachment groove in the end cap 211, it is advantageous to accurately position the protective patch, to speed up assembly, and to prevent the protective patch from falling off.

[0031] A second aspect of the present disclosure provides a battery, the battery including the end cap assembly of the first aspect of the present disclosure. The battery of the present disclosure has the advantages of the end cap assembly of the present disclosure.

[0032] A third aspect of the present disclosure provides a power consuming device, wherein the power consuming device includes a battery of the second aspect of the present disclosure, the battery being used to provide power to the power consuming device. The power consuming device of the present disclosure has the advantages of the end cap assembly and battery of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0033] In order to more clearly explain the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the following briefly introduces drawings that may be used in the embodiments of the present disclosure. It is obvious that the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present disclosure, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on the drawings without any creative efforts. [Figure 1] 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a vehicle, which is a power consuming device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a structural schematic diagram of the bottom of a vehicle, which is a power consumption device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded view of a battery cell in a battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a structural schematic diagram of an end cap assembly of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure taken along the AA direction in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an enlarged schematic structural view of part B in FIG. 6. [Figure 8] FIG. 6 is a structural schematic diagram of the end cap of the end cap assembly of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure taken along the CC direction in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged schematic structural view of part D in FIG. 9. [Figure 11] 6 is a structural schematic diagram of one direction of the protective patch of the vent valve in the end cap assembly of FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 12] 12 is a structural schematic diagram of the protective patch shown in FIG. 11 in another direction. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a structural schematic diagram of an end cap assembly of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure taken along the EE direction in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an enlarged schematic structural view of part F in FIG. 14. [Figure 16]FIG. 14 is a structural schematic diagram of the end cap of the end cap assembly of the embodiment shown in FIG. 13. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure in the direction GG of FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is an enlarged schematic structural view of part H in FIG. 17. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a structural schematic diagram of an end cap assembly of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure taken along line II in FIG. 19. [Figure 21] FIG. 20 is a structural schematic diagram of the end cap of the end cap assembly of the embodiment shown in FIG. 19. [Figure 22] 22 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure taken along the JJ direction in FIG. 21. [Figure 23] 20 is a structural schematic diagram of one direction of the protective patch of the vent valve in the end cap assembly of FIG. 19. FIG. [Figure 24] 24 is a structural schematic diagram of the protective patch shown in FIG. 23 in another direction. [Figure 25] FIG. 2 is a structural schematic diagram of an end cap assembly of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure in the KK direction of FIG. 25. [Figure 27] FIG. 26 is a structural schematic diagram of the end cap of the end cap assembly of the embodiment shown in FIG. 25. [Figure 28] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure in the MM direction of FIG. 16. [Figure 29] 1 is a schematic diagram of the local structure of an end cap of an end cap assembly of a battery cell according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0034] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail in conjunction with drawings and examples. The detailed description of the embodiments and the drawings are intended to exemplarily explain the principles of the present disclosure, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, i.e., not to be limited to the described embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] In describing the present disclosure, it should be explained that, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more, and the orientations or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "up," "down," "left," "right," "inside," "outside," etc. are merely for ease of description and brevity of description, and do not indicate or imply that the referenced devices or elements must have a particular orientation or be configured and operated in a particular orientation, and should not be understood as limitations on the present disclosure. Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," "third," etc. are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance. "Perpendicular" does not mean strictly perpendicular, but has a margin of error. "Parallel" does not mean strictly parallel, but has a margin of error.

[0036] Any direction terms appearing in the following description refer to the directions shown in the drawings and do not limit the specific structure of the present disclosure. It should be further explained that in the description of the present disclosure, unless otherwise clearly defined or limited, the terms "attached," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense, and may refer to, for example, a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection, or may be a direct connection or an indirect connection via an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0037] To solve the technical problem of contaminating the vent valve with foreign matter such as slag and injection liquid generated during the welding process in batteries and battery cells, thereby affecting the venting effect, the present disclosure provides an end cap assembly that effectively protects the vent valve. The present disclosure also provides a battery having the end cap assembly and a power consuming device having the battery.

[0038] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a power consumption device that uses a battery as a power source, and the battery is configured to provide electrical energy to the power consumption device. The power consumption device may be, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, a portable device, a laptop, a battery-powered vehicle, an electric vehicle, a steamer, a spacecraft, an electric toy, an electric tool, etc. For example, the spacecraft may include an airplane, a rocket, a space shuttle, a spaceship, etc., the electric toy may include a stationary or mobile electric toy, such as a game console, an electric toy car, an electric toy steamer, an electric toy airplane, etc., and the electric tool may include a metal cutting power tool, a polishing power tool, an assembly power tool, and a railway power tool, such as an electric drill, an electric grinder, an electric wrench, an electric screwdriver, an electric hammer, a hammer drill, a concrete vibrator, and an electric planer.

[0039] A battery in the embodiments of the present disclosure refers to a single physical module that includes one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. A battery may include three levels: battery cells, battery modules, and battery packs.

[0040] A battery cell is the smallest unit that makes up a battery module or a battery pack. Multiple battery cells are connected in series and / or in parallel via electrode terminals, and can be used in a variety of applications, such as electric vehicles, which require high power.

[0041] A battery module is formed by electrically connecting a certain number of battery cells and placing them in a framework to protect the battery cells from external impact, heat, vibration, etc. With the development of technology, the battery module level may be omitted, i.e., a battery pack may be formed directly from the battery cells.

[0042] A battery pack is the final stage of a battery system that is installed in a high-power consumption device, such as an electric vehicle. A battery pack generally includes a housing for packaging one or more battery cells. The housing can prevent liquids or other foreign objects from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells. The housing generally consists of a housing case and a housing cover. Most current battery packs are manufactured by assembling various control and protection systems, such as a battery management system (BMS) and thermal management components, with one or more battery modules. This improvement increases the gravimetric energy density and volumetric energy density of the battery system while significantly reducing the number of components.

[0043] For convenience of explanation, the following description will be given taking a vehicle D, which is a power consuming device in some embodiments of the present disclosure, as an example.

[0044] 1 and 2, FIG. 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a vehicle D according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The vehicle D may be a fuel oil vehicle, a gas vehicle, or a new energy vehicle, and the new energy vehicle may be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, a range extender vehicle, etc. A battery B is installed inside the vehicle D, and the battery B may be installed at the bottom, head, or tail of the vehicle D. The battery B may be used to power the vehicle D, for example, as an operating power source for the vehicle D.

[0045] Fig. 2 shows the bottom structure of the vehicle shown in Fig. 1. A battery B may be installed in a chassis CH of the vehicle D. The vehicle D may further include a controller CON and a motor M, where the battery B is used to provide electrical energy for the operation of the motor M and other components in the vehicle D, and the controller CON is used to control the operation of the motor M to meet the operating power consumption needs, such as for starting the vehicle D, navigation, and driving.

[0046] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, battery B can be used not only as an operating power source for vehicle D, but also as a driving power source for vehicle D, providing driving power to vehicle D in place of, or in place of, gasoline or natural gas.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 is an exploded view of Battery B according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] The battery B includes a housing 1 and battery cells 20 housed in the housing 1. Here, the housing 1 includes a housing case 11 and a housing lid 12 that engages with the housing case 11, and the housing 1 is used to provide a housing space for the battery cells 20. In the above embodiment, the entire housing 1 is a rectangular parallelepiped, but in an embodiment not shown, the housing 1 may have another shape, for example, a cylinder.

[0049] Battery B has a plurality of battery cells 20, and the plurality of battery cells 20 may be connected in series, in parallel, or in series-parallel. A series-parallel connection means that the plurality of battery cells 20 may be connected in series or in parallel. The plurality of battery cells 20 may be directly connected in series, in parallel, or in series-parallel, and the entire plurality of battery cells 20 may be housed in the housing 1.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 3 , battery B may be a battery pack 2 configured by connecting a plurality of battery cells 20 in series, parallel, or series-parallel. The battery pack 2 may take the form of a battery module. A plurality of battery packs 2 are further connected in series, parallel, or series-parallel to form an integrated unit housed in a housing 1. Battery B may further include other structures, and for example, battery B may further include bus bar members to realize electrical connection between the plurality of battery cells 20.

[0051] The battery cells may include lithium ion batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium lithium ion batteries, sodium ion batteries, magnesium ion batteries, etc., and may be primary or secondary batteries, etc., but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The battery cells may have a cylindrical, flat, rectangular, or other shape, etc., but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. Battery cells are generally divided into three types based on packaging method: cylindrical battery cells, rectangular battery cells, and pouch battery cells, but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0052] The battery cell mainly includes an electrode assembly, a case, and an end cap assembly, and the electrode assembly is packaged in the case via the end cap of the end cap assembly. The number of electrode assemblies may be, for example, one, two, or more.

[0053] The electrode assembly is disposed inside the case. The electrode assembly is a component where an electrochemical reaction occurs in the battery cell. The electrode assembly may have a wound structure or a stacked structure, but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0054] The case refers to a component that provides a storage space and houses the electrode assembly, electrolyte, and other components therein. The case may have various shapes and sizes, such as a rectangular parallelepiped, cylindrical, or hexagonal prism. Specifically, the shape of the case may be determined depending on the specific shape and size of the electrode assembly. The case may be made of a material such as copper, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, or plastic.

[0055] An end cap is a component that covers the opening of a case and isolates the internal environment of the battery cell from the external environment. The shape of the end cap may be adapted to fit the case. Optionally, the end cap may be made of a material with a certain hardness and strength (e.g., aluminum alloy). In this way, the end cap is less likely to deform when pressed or hit, and the battery cell can have higher structural strength and improved safety performance. The end cap may be provided with a functional component, such as an electrode terminal. The electrode terminal may be used to electrically connect to the electrode assembly to output or input electrical energy from the battery cell. In some embodiments, the end cap may be provided with a pressure relief mechanism to release internal pressure when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell reaches a threshold. The end cap may be made of various materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, plastic, etc., and the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0056] The case and the end caps may be separate components, with an opening formed in the case and the end caps covering the opening to form an internal environment for the battery cell. Alternatively, the end caps and the case may be integrated, but this is not limiting. Specifically, the end caps and the case form a common connection surface before other components are inserted into the case. When the interior of the case needs to be packaged, the end caps may be placed over the case, and the case and the end caps may be packaged together.

[0057] The end cap assembly may include a pressure relief mechanism. The pressure relief mechanism is an element or member that is activated to release the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell when the internal pressure or temperature reaches a predetermined threshold. The pressure relief mechanism may be, for example, an explosion-proof valve. The explosion-proof valve is generally provided in the end cap of the battery cell. The explosion-proof valve may be, for example, a part of the flat surface of the end cap or may be welded to the flat surface of the end cap.

[0058] The end cap assembly may further include a vent valve, which has waterproof, breathable, oil-proof, and dust-proof functions, and provides protection while balancing the pressure inside and outside the battery box to protect the internal devices. The vent valve is an assembleable and removable protective assembly formed by combining a vent membrane and a valve body using processes such as injection molding, welding, adhesive bonding, and thermal fusion. Under the action of a pressure difference, gas inside and outside the battery cell case passes through the gas passage of the vent valve and permeates the vent membrane, replenishing the gas and maintaining pressure balance between the gas inside and outside the battery box. The vent membrane is a core component of the vent valve and may be made of, for example, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (E-PTFE). Vent valves may be divided into injection-molded, welded, interference-fit, and adhesive types depending on the connection type between the vent membrane and the valve body, and into one-way and two-way types depending on the gas flow direction. They are mainly divided into screw-type, push-in type, latch-type, and button-type types depending on the mounting and connection method, and the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0059] In some embodiments, the battery cell may further include an insulating member disposed inside the end cap, which may be used to isolate the end cap from the electrical connection members within the case to reduce the risk of short circuiting. For example, the insulating member may be an insulating plate, and may be made of a material such as plastic or rubber.

[0060] 4 , in some embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery cell 20 includes an end cap assembly 21, a case 25, a first electrode assembly 241, a second electrode assembly 242, a first connecting sheet 22, and a first connecting sheet 23. The first connecting sheet 22 connects the positive electrode tabs of the first electrode assembly 241 and the second electrode assembly 242 to a first electrode terminal 212 in an end cap 211 of the end cap assembly 21, and the first connecting sheet 23 connects the negative electrode tabs of the first electrode assembly 241 and the second electrode assembly 242 to a second electrode terminal 213 in an end cap 211 of the end cap assembly 21.

[0061] 4 , the end cap assembly 21 includes an end cap 211, a first electrode terminal 212, a second electrode terminal 213, an explosion-proof valve 214, a vent valve 215, and an insulating plate 216. The end cap 211 is fitted into the case 25 to package the first electrode assembly 241 and the second electrode assembly 242 in a sealed space formed by the end cap 211 and the case 25. The first electrode terminal 212 is a positive terminal and is electrically connected to the positive electrode tabs of the first electrode assembly 241 and the second electrode assembly 242 via a first connection sheet 22. The second electrode terminal 213 is a negative terminal and is electrically connected to the negative electrode tabs of the first electrode assembly 241 and the second electrode assembly 242 via a first connection sheet 23. The insulating plate 216 is arranged between the end cap 211 and the first connection sheet 22 and the first connection sheet 23 to provide insulation between the end cap 211 and the first connection sheet 22, the first connection sheet 23, the first electrode assembly 241, and the second electrode assembly 242.

[0062] 5 to 29 , an end cap assembly 21 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is used in a battery and includes an end cap 211 and a vent valve 215 attached to the end cap 211. The end cap 211 has a first side facing the interior of the battery and a second side opposite the first side, and includes a first passage 2113 connecting the first side and the second side. The vent valve 215 includes a vent membrane 2152 in gas communication with the first passage 2113. The vent membrane 2152 includes a vent portion 2152A that opens toward the second side of the end cap 211. The vent valve 215 further includes a protective patch 217 that is attached to the second side of the end cap 211 and covers the vent portion 2152A.

[0063] The end cap assembly 21 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is provided with a protective patch 217, which covers the ventilation portion 2152A of the ventilation membrane 2152 that opens toward the second side of the end cap 211, and is advantageous in preventing the ventilation membrane 2152 from being contaminated by slag or electrolyte. Therefore, the ventilation membrane 2152 of the ventilation valve 215 in this end cap assembly 21 can be protected by the protective patch 217, which improves the ventilation effect of the ventilation valve 215 and better realizes the function of the ventilation valve balancing the internal and external pressure of the battery cell and protecting the internal devices.

[0064] As shown in Figures 5 to 10, 13 to 22, and 25 to 29, in some embodiments of the end cap assembly, there is a second passage between the protective patch 217 and the end cap 211 that is in gas communication with the breathable membrane 2152.

[0065] Between the protective patch 217 and the end cap 211, there is a second passageway that is in gas communication with the vent membrane 2152, so that the vent membrane of the vent valve 215 can be easily opened by the second passageway. 2152 The airflow passing through the battery cell 20 can smoothly flow in and out of the battery cell 20.

[0066] As shown in Figures 6 to 10, 14 to 18, 20 and 22, and 26 and 28, in some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the end cap 211 includes a vent valve mounting groove 2112, the vent valve is located in the vent valve mounting groove 2112, a first passage 2113 is located in the bottom wall of the vent valve mounting groove 2112, and a second passage is connected to the vent valve mounting groove 2112, wherein the opening of the vent valve mounting groove 2112 is located on a first side of the end cap 211, or the opening of the vent valve mounting groove 2112 is located on a second side of the end cap 211.

[0067] Attaching the vent membrane 2152 to the valve plate 2151 provides protection and support for the vent membrane 2152, which is advantageous in reducing the adverse effects of installing the first passage 2113 in the end cap 211. Installing the valve plate 2151 and vent membrane 2152 of the vent valve in the vent valve installation groove 2112 prevents the vent valve from affecting its breathability, and its installation minimizes the thickness of the end cap 211, which is advantageous in reducing the overall height of the end cap assembly 21 and the battery.

[0068] The valve plate 2151 is made of, for example, an aluminum plate. The gas permeable membrane 2152 may be fixed to the valve plate 2151 by various fixing methods, for example, the gas permeable membrane 2152 and the valve plate 2151 may be connected by chemical bonding. The valve plate 2151 may be attached to the end cap 211 by various attachment methods, for example, the valve plate 2151 may be fixedly connected to the end cap 211 by laser welding.

[0069] As shown in Figures 6, 7, 14, 15, 20, and 26, in some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the vent valve further includes a valve plate 2151 attached to the end cap 211 and having a third passage 2151A penetrating two sides of the valve plate 2151, and a vent membrane 2152 fixed to the valve plate 2151 and covering the third passage 2151A. As shown in Figures 6 to 10, 14 to 18, 20 and 22, 26 and 28, the vent valve mounting groove 2112 is a stepped groove including a first groove portion 2112A and a second groove portion 2112B. The first groove portion 2112A is adjacent to the bottom wall of the vent valve mounting groove 2112, and the vent membrane 2152 is located within the first groove portion 2112A and has a gap between it and the bottom wall. The second groove portion 2112B is connected to the first groove portion 2112A and a step surface 2112C is formed at the connection point, and the valve plate 2151 is located in the second groove portion 2112B and abuts against the step surface 2112C.

[0070] The above arrangement is advantageous in that the breathable membrane 2152 is fluidly connected to the first passage 2113 and the third passage 2151A, and is advantageous in that the breathable membrane 2152 stably performs the function of balancing the internal and external pressure of the battery cell.

[0071] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the height H1 of the first groove portion 2112A is 0.1-0.5 mm greater than the thickness of the ventilation membrane 2152, and / or the height H2 of the second groove portion 2112B is equal to the thickness of the valve plate 2151 or is 0.5 mm or less greater than the thickness of the valve plate 2151.

[0072] By rationally setting the relationship between the height H1 of the first groove portion 2112A and the thickness of the ventilation membrane 2152, it is advantageous to maintain smooth communication between the ventilation membrane 2152 and the first passage 2113. By rationally setting the relationship between the height H2 of the second groove portion 2112B and the thickness of the valve plate 2151, it is advantageous to maintain smooth communication between the ventilation membrane 2152 and the first passage 2113. To This is advantageous in reducing the amount of extra space occupied other than the thickness, and also reduces the end play by processing the vent valve mounting groove 2112. ToThis is advantageous in reducing the adverse effects on the

[0073] As shown in Figures 6 to 10, Figures 14 to 18, Figures 20 and 22, Figures 26 and 28, in some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the end cap 211 includes an end cap body 2111, and a vent valve mounting groove 2112 is located in the end cap body 2111, wherein the end cap 211 further includes a boss 2114 located in the end cap body 2111 and protruding toward a second side of the end cap 211, the boss 2114 including a communicating groove 2115 or a communicating hole located in the boss 2114, and / or a vent groove 2116 located in the end cap body 2111 and located on the second side of the end cap 211 and communicating with the vent valve mounting groove 2112, the second passage including the vent groove 2116.

[0074] By providing a boss 2114 and providing a communication groove 2115 or a communication hole in the boss 2114 as at least a part of the second passage, or by providing a ventilation groove 2116 as at least a part of the second passage, it is advantageous to realize the second passage with a simple structure and processing method, and the ventilation function of the ventilation membrane 2152 remains unaffected by the protective patch 217.

[0075] The boss 2114 may have one or more communication grooves, the extension direction and cross-sectional shape of which are not limited and may be, for example, circular, rectangular, triangular, polygonal, etc. The boss 2114 may have one or more communication holes, the extension direction and cross-sectional shape of which are not limited and may be, for example, circular, rectangular, triangular, polygonal, etc. The boss 2114 may have both a communication groove and a communication hole. The position of the communication groove or hole may be reasonably determined based on the surrounding environment of the protective patch 217, and the number and size of the communication grooves or holes may be reasonably determined based on the flow area required for the second passage.

[0076] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the height H3 of the boss 2114 is 0.1-0.5 mm, and / or the boss 2114 is located outside the vent valve mounting groove 2112, and the distance L1 between the edge of the boss 2114 closest to the vent valve mounting groove 2112 and the edge of the vent valve mounting groove 2112 is 0.5-3 mm.

[0077] Rationalizing the height H3 of the boss 2114 minimizes the height occupied by the vent valve 215 and is advantageous in ensuring smooth airflow inside and outside the battery cell when passing through the vent valve 215. Rationalizing the relative positions of the boss 2114 and the vent valve mounting groove 2112 facilitates operation during assembly and maintenance of the vent valve, for example, by providing sufficient operating space for laser welding when installing the valve plate.

[0078] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the depth H4 of the ventilation groove 2116 is 0.05-0.3 mm, and / or the distance L2 between the edge of the ventilation groove 2116 located outside the protective patch 217 and the edge of the protective patch 217 is 0.1-0.5 mm.

[0079] By rationally setting the depth of the ventilation groove 2116 and the distance between it and the protective patch 217, it is advantageous to ensure that the airflow inside and outside the battery cell can flow smoothly when passing through the ventilation valve 215.

[0080] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, 23 and 24, in some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the protective patch 217 includes a patch body 2171 covering the ventilation portion 2152A and a fixing adhesive layer 2172, where the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is installed on the side of the patch body 2171 facing the end cap 211, and the patch body 2171 is attached to the second side of the end cap 211 via the fixing adhesive layer 2172.

[0081] The protective patch 217 is provided with a patch body 2171 and a fixing adhesive layer 2172, and the patch body 2171 is fixedly connected via the fixing adhesive layer 2172, which is advantageous for fast and secure attachment of the protective patch 217.

[0082] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is attached to a certain area of the patch body 2171, wherein the area of the patch body 2171 to which the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is not attached is transparent, and / or the area of the patch body 2171 to which the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is attached and / or the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is colored.

[0083] The area of the patch body 2171 where the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is not attached is transparent, which is advantageous for observing whether there is any foreign matter on the surface of the ventilation valve 215 facing the second side of the end cap assembly 21, and makes it easy to timely detect any problems with the ventilation valve 215. The area of the patch body 2171 where the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is attached and / or the fixing adhesive layer 2172 may be colored, for example, red, green, blue, yellow, etc., which is advantageous for quickly identifying whether the protective patch 217 is installed on the end cap assembly 21, and makes it easy to prevent the ventilation membrane from being loosely attached. 2152 to prevent the equipment from being unprotected.

[0084] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, 23 and 24, in some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is located at the edge of the patch body 2171 and / or the fixing adhesive layer 2172 avoids the second passage.

[0085] By positioning the fixing adhesive layer 2172 on the edge of the patch body 2171, the amount of fixing adhesive used can be reduced without affecting the adhesive effect, and since the fixing adhesive layer 2172 avoids the second passage, it is advantageous to prevent dust from adhering and accumulating at the location of the second passage, thereby advantageously maintaining communication with the second passage.

[0086] In some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the protective patch 217 includes a patch body 2171 covering the ventilation portion 2152A, and the patch body 2171 is made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and / or the thickness of the patch body 2171 is 0.1-0.2 mm.

[0087] By fabricating the patch body 2171 from polyethylene terephthalate and / or setting an appropriate thickness for the patch body 2171, foreign substances such as electrolyte, water vapor, and dust can be effectively blocked.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 29, in some embodiments of the end cap assembly 21, the end cap 211 includes a patch mounting groove 2117, and the protective patch 217 is positioned within the patch mounting groove 2117.

[0089] By attaching the protective patch 217 in the patch attachment groove 2117 in the end cap 211, it is advantageous to accurately position the protective patch 217, facilitate quick assembly, and prevent the protective patch 217 from falling off.

[0090] The battery of the present disclosure includes the end cap assembly 21 of the present disclosure. The battery of the present disclosure has the advantages of the end cap assembly 21 of the present disclosure.

[0091] An example power consuming device of the present disclosure includes an example battery of the present disclosure, which is used to provide power to the power consuming device. The power consuming device of the present disclosure has the advantages of the end cap assembly 21 and battery of the present disclosure.

[0092] End cap assemblies according to some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 5 to 29. Batteries according to some embodiments of the present disclosure include end cap assemblies according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and power consuming devices according to some embodiments of the present disclosure include batteries according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and the batteries and power consuming devices will not be described in detail below.

[0093] 5 to 12, the end cap assembly 21 includes an end cap 211, a first electrode terminal 212, a second electrode terminal 213, an explosion-proof valve 214, a vent valve 215, and an insulating plate 216. The first electrode terminal 212, the second electrode terminal 213, the explosion-proof valve 214, the vent valve 215, and the insulating plate 216 are all attached to the end cap 211.

[0094] The end cap 211 has a first side (corresponding to the lower side in FIG. 6) facing the inside of the battery and a second side (corresponding to the upper side in FIG. 6) opposite the first side, and includes a first passage 2113 that connects the first side and the second side. The first passage 2113 is a through-hole opened in the end cap body 2111 of the end cap 211.

[0095] The vent valve 215 includes a vent valve that includes a valve plate 2151 attached to the end cap body 2111 and a vent membrane 2152 attached to the valve plate 2151 and in gas communication with the first passageway 2113 .

[0096] The valve plate 2151 is made of an aluminum plate and has a third passage 2151A formed therein. The third passage 2151A is a through-hole that connects both sides of the valve plate 2151. The shape, number, and size of the through-holes can be set according to ventilation needs. The valve plate 2151 is fixed to the end cap body 2111 by laser welding.

[0097] The breathable membrane is bonded to one side of the valve plate 2151 by chemical bonding, and the breathable membrane 2152 covers the third passage 2151A of the valve plate 2151, thereby ensuring that any airflow flowing through the third passage 2151A passes through the breathable membrane 2152.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, the ventilation membrane 2152 is located on the first side of the valve plate 2151 (corresponding to the lower side in FIG. 7), but the area of the ventilation membrane 2152 covering the third passage 2151A is open toward the second side of the end cap 211 (corresponding to the upper side in FIG. 7), forming the ventilation portion 2152A.

[0099] 5 to 7, the protective patch 217 is fixed to the second side of the end cap 211. The protective patch 217 includes a patch body 2171, which covers the ventilation portion 2152A of the ventilation membrane 2152 that opens toward the second side of the end cap 211. The patch body 2171 is made of PET and has a thickness of 0.2 mm.

[0100] To prevent the installation of the protective patch 217 from affecting the normal operation of the ventilation valve 215, a second passage is provided between the patch body 2171 and the end cap 211, which is in gas communication with the ventilation membrane 2152.

[0101] 6 to 10 , the end cap 211 includes an end cap body 2111 and a boss 2114 mounted on the end cap body 2111 and protruding toward a second side of the end cap 211. A vent valve mounting groove 2112 is mounted on the end cap body 2111. The vent valve of the vent valve 215 is mounted in the vent valve mounting groove 2112. A first passage 2113 is mounted on the bottom wall of the vent valve mounting groove 2112, and a second passage mounted between the protective patch 217 and the end cap 211 communicates with the vent valve mounting groove 2112, ensuring that the vent valve 215 balances the internal and external air pressures of the battery cell 20. The opening of the vent valve mounting groove 2112 is mounted on the first side of the end cap 211.

[0102] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 10 , the vent valve mounting groove 2112 is a stepped groove including a first groove portion 2112A and a second groove portion 2112B. The first groove portion 2112A is adjacent to the bottom wall of the vent valve mounting groove 2112. The ventilation membrane 2152 is located within the first groove portion 2112A and has a gap with the bottom wall, ensuring that airflow entering and exiting the battery cell 20 from the first passage 2113 passes smoothly through the ventilation membrane 2152. The second groove portion 2112B is connected to the first groove portion 2112A, forming a stepped surface 2112C at the connection point. The valve plate 2151 is located within the second groove portion 2112B and abuts against the stepped surface 2112C. The valve plate 2151 and the stepped surface 2112C are fixedly connected by laser welding.

[0103] To ensure smooth gas flow between the gas permeable membrane 2152 and the first passage 2113, the height H1 of the first groove 2112A is 0.3 mm larger than the thickness of the gas permeable membrane 2152. To ensure smooth air flow between the gas permeable membrane 2152 and the second passage, the height H2 of the second groove 2112B is 0.1 mm larger than the thickness of the valve plate 2151.

[0104] The boss 2114 is located outside the vent valve mounting groove 2112. A communicating groove 2115 with a rectangular cross section is provided on each of the opposing sides of the boss 2114 along the longitudinal direction of the end cap 211 (corresponding to the left-right direction in Figures 5 to 10). The height of each communicating groove 2115 is equal to the height of the boss 2114. The two communicating grooves 2115 form second passages, which ensure smooth airflow in and out of the vent valve 215. The height H3 of the boss 2114 is 0.3 mm. The distance L1 between the edge of the boss 2114 closest to the vent valve mounting groove 2112 and the edge of the vent valve mounting groove 2112 is 2 mm.

[0105] 11 and 12, the protective patch 217 further includes a fixing adhesive layer 2172, which is disposed on the side of the patch body 2171 facing the end cap 211, and the patch body 2171 is attached to a second side of the end cap 211 via the fixing adhesive layer 2172. The fixing adhesive layer 2172 is attached to a partial area of the patch body 2171. The area of the patch body 2171 to which the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is not attached is transparent. The fixing adhesive layer 2172 is green.

[0106] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 , in this embodiment, the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is located at the edge of the patch body 2171 and corresponds to the position of the boss 2114 where the communicating groove 2115 is not formed, thereby avoiding the second passage. The valve plate 2151, the ventilation membrane 2152, and the protective patch 217 of the ventilation valve 215 are all oval and extend along the width direction of the end cap 211 (corresponding to the vertical direction in FIG. 5 ). As shown in FIG. 8 , the portion of the boss 2114 where the communicating groove 2115 is not formed forms a pair of U-shaped openings facing the end cap and spaced apart. Accordingly, the fixing adhesive layer 2172 also forms a pair of U-shaped openings facing the edge of the patch body 2171 and spaced apart. The protective patch 217 covers the top of the boss 2114 and is secured to the second side of the end cap 211 by aligning and adhering the securing adhesive layer 2172 to the boss 2114 .

[0107] The embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 to 18 differs from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 to 12 in that the method of attaching the protective patch 217 and the method of installing the second passage are different.

[0108] 13 to 18 , no boss is provided at the position where the protective patch 217 is to be installed on the second side of the end cap body 2111 of the end cap 211, and the protective patch 217 is directly attached to the surface of the second side of the end cap body 2111. The second passage includes an air vent groove 2116 located on the second side of the end cap body 2111 and communicating with the vent valve mounting groove 2112. To ensure airflow communication for the vent valve 215, the depth H4 of the air vent groove 2116 is 0.2 mm, the distance L2 between the edge of the air vent groove 2116 located outside the protective patch 217 and the edge of the protective patch 217 is 0.4 mm, and the height H2 of the second groove portion 2112B is 0.3 mm greater than the thickness of the valve plate 2151.

[0109] The ventilation grooves 2116 are two rectangular grooves arranged opposite each other. In embodiments not shown, the ventilation grooves may have other shapes, such as arc-shaped, trapezoidal, or triangular cross sections, and may have other numbers, such as one, three, or four or more. The size, shape, and number of the ventilation grooves may be reasonably determined according to the flow area of the second passage. The installation positions of the ventilation grooves may be reasonably determined according to the surrounding environment of the protective patch.

[0110] The above has described only the differences between the embodiment shown in Figures 13 to 18 and the embodiment shown in Figures 5 to 12, but for any parts not described in this embodiment, please refer to the relevant content of the embodiment shown in Figures 5 to 12, and they will not be described again here.

[0111] As shown in FIGS. 19 to 24, the difference from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 to 12 is that the position of the vent valve mounting groove 2112 is different.

[0112] 19 to 22, in this embodiment, the opening of the vent valve mounting groove 2112 faces the first side of the end cap 211. The vent portion 2152A of the vent membrane 2152, which opens toward the second side of the end cap 211, is located within the opening region of the third passage 2113. On the second side of the end cap 211, a boss 2114 is installed around the end opening of the third passage 2113, which is located on the second side of the end cap 211, and two communicating grooves 2116 are installed in the boss 2114 as second passages.

[0113] As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the fixing adhesive layer 2172 is located on the edge of the patch body 2171 and corresponds to the position of the boss 2114 where the communicating groove 2115 is not formed, thereby avoiding the second passage. The valve plate 2151 and the ventilation membrane 2152 of the ventilation valve 215 are both oval and extend along the width direction of the end cap 211 (corresponding to the vertical direction in Figure 5). The third passage 2113 is a circular hole installed in the end cap body 2111, and the boss 2114 is installed around the end opening of the third passage 2113. The portion where the communicating groove 2115 is not formed has two arch shapes facing each other with a gap between them. The protective patch 217 is circular. Corresponding to the boss 2114, the fixing adhesive layer 2172 also has openings installed at a gap between them on the edge of the patch body 2171, forming a pair of opposing arch shapes. The protective patch 217 covers the top of the boss 2114 and is secured to the second side of the end cap 211 by aligning and adhering the securing adhesive layer 2172 to the boss 2114 .

[0114] The above has described only the differences between the embodiment shown in Figures 19 to 24 and the embodiment shown in Figures 5 to 12, but for any parts not described in this embodiment, please refer to the relevant content of the embodiment shown in Figures 5 to 12, and they will not be described again here.

[0115] 25 to 28 , the difference from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 19 to 24 is that no boss is provided at the position where the protective patch 217 is to be installed on the second side of the end cap body 2111 of the end cap 211. Instead, the protective patch 217 is directly attached to the second surface of the end cap body 2111. The second passage includes a ventilation groove 2116 located on the second side of the end cap body 2111 and communicating with the vent valve mounting groove 2112. To ensure airflow communication for the vent valve 215, the depth H4 of the ventilation groove 2116 is 0.3 mm, and the distance L2 between the edge of the ventilation groove 2116 located outside the protective patch 217 and the edge of the protective patch 217 is 0.5 mm. The height H2 of the second groove portion 2112B is 0.1 mm greater than the thickness of the valve plate 2151.

[0116] In this embodiment, the ventilation grooves 2116 are two rectangular grooves arranged opposite each other. In embodiments not shown, the ventilation grooves may have other shapes, such as arc-shaped cross sections, trapezoidal cross sections, or triangular cross sections, and may have other numbers, such as one, three, or four or more. The size, shape, and number of the ventilation grooves may be reasonably determined according to the flow area of the second passage. The installation positions of the ventilation grooves may be reasonably determined according to the surrounding environment of the protective patch.

[0117] The above has described only the differences between the embodiment shown in Figures 25 to 28 and the embodiment shown in Figures 19 to 24, but for any parts not described in this embodiment, please refer to the relevant contents of the embodiments shown in Figures 5 to 12 and 19 to 24, and they will not be described again here.

[0118] 29, the difference from the embodiments shown in FIGS. 13 to 18 is that a patch mounting groove 2117 is further provided in the end cap body 2111, and the protective patch 217 is located in the patch mounting groove 2117. Mounting the protective patch 217 in the patch mounting groove 2117 in the end cap 211 is advantageous for accurate positioning of the protective patch 217, quick assembly, and preventing the protective patch 217 from falling off.

[0119] The above has described only the differences between the embodiment shown in Fig. 29 and the embodiments shown in Fig. 13 to Fig. 18, but for any parts not described in this embodiment, please refer to the relevant contents of the embodiments shown in Fig. 5 to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 to Fig. 18, and they will not be described again here.

[0120] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications can be made thereto and elements therein can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In particular, unless there is a structural conflict, the technical features recited in each embodiment can be combined in any manner. The present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An end cap assembly (21) for use in a battery, comprising: an end cap (211) having a first side facing the interior of the battery and a second side opposite the first side, the end cap including a first passage (2113) connecting the first side and the second side; a vent valve (215) including a vent membrane (2152) in gas communication with the first passage (2113), the vent membrane (2152) including a vent portion (2152A) that opens toward the second side of the end cap (211); a protective patch (217) located on the second side of the end cap (211) and covering the vent (2152A); a second passageway between the protective patch (217) and the end cap (211) in gas communication with the breathable membrane (2152); An end cap assembly (21), wherein the end cap (211) includes a vent valve mounting groove (2112), the vent valve (215) is positioned within the vent valve mounting groove (2112), the first passage (2113) is located on the bottom wall of the vent valve mounting groove (2112), and the second passage is connected to the vent valve mounting groove (2112), wherein the opening of the vent valve mounting groove (2112) is located on the first side of the end cap (211), or the opening of the vent valve mounting groove (2112) is located on the second side of the end cap (211).

2. The vent valve (215) further includes a valve plate (2151), the valve plate (2151) is attached to the end cap (211) and has a third passage (2151A) penetrating two sides of the valve plate (2151), the vent membrane (2152) is fixed to the valve plate (2151) and covers the third passage (2151A), wherein the vent valve attachment groove (2112) is a stepped groove, and the stepped groove is a first groove portion (2112A) adjacent to a bottom wall of the vent valve mounting groove (2112), the vent membrane (2152) being located within the first groove portion (2112A) and having a gap with the bottom wall; An end cap assembly (21) as described in claim 1, comprising a second groove portion (2112B) connected to the first groove portion (2112A) and having a step surface (2112C) formed at the connection point, and the valve plate (2151) is located within the second groove portion (2112B) and abuts the step surface (2112C).

3. The height (H1) of the first groove (2112A) is 0.1-0.5 mm greater than the thickness of the breathable membrane (2152), and / or The end cap assembly (21) of claim 2, wherein the height (H2) of the second groove portion (2112B) is equal to the thickness of the valve plate (2151) or is 0.5 mm or less greater than the thickness of the valve plate (2151).

4. The end cap (211) includes an end cap body (2111), and the vent valve mounting groove (2112) is installed in the end cap body (2111), where the end cap (211) comprises: a boss (2114) mounted on the end cap body (2111) and projecting towards the second side of the end cap (211), the second passage including a communicating groove (2115) or a communicating hole mounted on the boss (2114); and / or An end cap assembly (21) as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an air vent groove (2116) installed in the end cap body (2111), located on the second side of the end cap (211), and communicating with the air vent valve mounting groove (2112), wherein the second passage includes the air vent groove (2116).

5. The height (H3) of said boss (2114) is 0.1-0.5 mm; and / or The end cap assembly (21) of claim 4, wherein the boss (2114) is located outside the vent valve mounting groove (2112), and the distance (L1) between the edge of the boss (2114) closest to the vent valve mounting groove (2112) and the edge of the vent valve mounting groove (2112) is 0.5-3 mm.

6. The depth (H4) of the ventilation groove (2116) is 0.05-0.3 mm; and / or The end cap assembly (21) according to claim 4, wherein a distance (L2) between an edge of the ventilation groove (2116) located outside the protective patch (217) and an edge of the protective patch (217) is 0.1-0.5 mm.

7. The end cap assembly (21) of claim 2, wherein the protective patch (217) comprises a patch body (2171) covering the ventilation portion (2152A) and a fixing adhesive layer (2172), the fixing adhesive layer (2172) being installed on the side of the patch body (2171) facing the end cap (211), and the patch body (2171) being attached to the second side of the end cap (211) via the fixing adhesive layer (2172).

8. The fixing adhesive layer (2172) is attached to a partial area of the patch body (2171), wherein: The areas of the patch body (2171) to which the fixing adhesive layer (2172) is not attached are transparent, and / or 8. The end cap assembly (21) according to claim 7, wherein the area of the patch body (2171) to which the fixing adhesive layer (2172) is attached and / or the fixing adhesive layer (2172) is a collar.

9. the fixing adhesive layer (2172) is located on the edge of the patch body (2171), and / or The end cap assembly (21) of claim 7, wherein the fixing adhesive layer (2172) avoids the second passageway.

10. The protective patch (217) includes a patch body (2171) covering the ventilation portion (2152A), wherein: said patch body (2171) is made of polyethylene terephthalate, and / or The end cap assembly (21) of claim 1, wherein the thickness of the patch body (2171) is 0.1-0.2 mm.

11. The end cap assembly (21) of claim 1, wherein the end cap (211) includes a patch mounting groove (2117), and the protective patch (217) is positioned within the patch mounting groove (2117).

12. A battery comprising an end cap assembly (21) according to claim 1.

13. A power consuming device comprising the battery of claim 12, said battery being used to provide power to said power consuming device.

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