Battery cell, battery, power consumption device, and battery cell manufacturing method and apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a battery cell, a battery, a power consumption device, and a manufacturing method and device for a battery cell. The battery cell includes a housing having a first opening for accommodating an electrode assembly of the battery cell, an end cap covering the first opening, and a first insulating film for insulating and protecting the end cap, the first insulating film including a main body covering a surface of the end cap away from the housing, and a plurality of extensions surrounding the main body, each connected to one side of the main body, extending away from the center of the main body, and capable of being folded toward the housing to cover at least a part of the outer wall of the housing. By covering the end cap of the battery cell with the first insulating film having the extensions, the first insulating film can be brought into close contact with the end cap of the battery cell, avoiding a problem of a flange warping due to interference of the insulating film with a member provided on the end cap of the battery cell, and ensuring the insulating protection of the insulating film for the battery cell.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of batteries, and more particularly to battery cells, batteries, power consuming devices, and methods and apparatus for manufacturing battery cells. [Background technology]

[0002] As battery technology advances, various battery performance characteristics are improving. In addition to improving battery performance, safety issues have also become a significant concern. To insulate the battery cell case from the outside, it is usually necessary to wrap the battery cell case in an insulating film. However, because battery cell end caps often contain components such as electrode terminals, these components tend to interfere with the insulating film wrapping, causing the insulating film flange to warp.

[0003] Therefore, how to ensure the insulating film's insulation protection for the battery cells remains a problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above problems, the present application provides a battery cell, a battery, a power consumption device, and a method and apparatus for manufacturing a battery cell that can ensure the insulating protection of an insulating film for the battery cell.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides a battery cell comprising: a housing having a first opening for accommodating an electrode assembly of the battery cell; an end cap for covering the first opening; and a first insulating film for insulating and protecting the end cap, the first insulating film including: a main body portion for covering a surface of the end cap away from the housing; and a plurality of extension portions surrounding the main body portion, each connected to one side of the main body portion, extending away from the center of the main body portion, and capable of being folded toward the housing to cover at least a portion of the outer wall of the housing.

[0006] By covering the end cap of the battery cell with a first insulating film having an extension portion, the first insulating film can be adhered to the end cap of the battery cell, avoiding the problem of the flange warping due to interference with the insulating film by members provided on the end cap of the battery cell, and ensuring the insulating film's protection of the battery cell.

[0007] Furthermore, before the first insulating film is applied to the end caps of the battery cells, its extension and body are flush with each other, saving stacking space during assembly. That is, multiple first insulating films can be stacked at once on an assembly machine, improving production efficiency. Because the extension and body are flush with each other, they are less likely to deform during the assembly process. Even if slight deformation occurs, the effect of this deformation is eliminated during the process of crimping the first insulating film to the end caps. This reduces the requirements for positioning accuracy on the assembly machine, improving production efficiency while ensuring insulation protection for the battery cells.

[0008] In some embodiments, the thickness of the extension portion is less than the thickness of the body portion.

[0009] The body has a certain thickness, which ensures the rigidity of the first insulating film, and allows it to maintain its original shape without deformation during assembly onto the end cap of the battery cell by an assembly machine, ensuring accurate attachment of the first insulating film. The extension has a smaller thickness than the body, which provides insulation protection for the outer wall while minimizing the space occupied by the battery, helping to improve the energy density of the battery.

[0010] In some embodiments, a reinforcing rib is provided at the connection between the extension and the body portion.

[0011] By providing a reinforcing rib at the connection point between the extension portion and the main body portion, the strength of the first insulating film is improved, preventing damage to the first insulating film and causing insulation failure, and ensuring the first insulating film's insulation protection for the battery cells.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first insulating film has a second opening for avoiding the electrode terminals of the battery cell and a pressure reducing mechanism.

[0013] By providing the second opening in the first insulating film, components attached to the end caps of the battery cells, such as electrode terminals and pressure reduction mechanisms, can be used normally. The parts of the end caps where no components are attached can be covered by the first insulating film, ensuring the insulating film's insulation protection for the battery cells.

[0014] In some embodiments, the main body portion has a protrusion that protrudes from the main body portion on a side away from the battery cell and is recessed into the main body portion on a side toward the battery cell to form a cavity structure, the cavity structure being used to accommodate the protruding portion of the end cap that protrudes away from the interior of the battery cell.

[0015] The first insulating film has a convex portion, which adaptively insulates and protects the battery cell having a convex hull in the end cap, prevents the protruding portion of the end cap away from the inside of the battery cell from interfering with the insulating film, avoids the problem of insulation failure due to poor adhesion of the insulating film, ensures the insulating film's insulation protection for the battery cell, and improves the safety performance of the battery cell.

[0016] In some embodiments, the edge of the portion of the battery cell that protrudes from the end cap has a chamfered structure, and the edge of the cavity structure has a transition structure that matches the chamfered structure.

[0017] The chamfered structure on the edge of the battery cell's protruding portion from the end cap allows for a more natural transition between the two intersecting surfaces of the end cap, reducing the precision requirements for the assembly machine when aligning the first insulating film with the battery cell's end cap during the first insulating film assembly process. The chamfered structure can guide the assembly machine to the correct position even with slight deviations. Furthermore, the cavity structure of the first insulating film has a transition structure that matches the chamfered structure, allowing the first insulating film to adhere tightly to the protruding portion of the battery cell's end cap, preventing the insulating film from loosening at the corners and ensuring the insulating film's protection for the battery cell.

[0018] In some embodiments, the body portion and the extension portion are of the same material and are of unitary construction.

[0019] Because the main body portion and the extension portion are made of the same material and have an integrally molded structure, a consistent connection between the main body portion and the extension portion is possible, eliminating the need for a separate connection method. This reduces the possibility of defects occurring in the first insulating film itself, and ensures insulating protection for the battery cells in the main body portion and the extension portion.

[0020] In some embodiments, an adhesive material is provided on the first insulating film on a side facing the battery cell to adhere the first insulating film to the battery cell.

[0021] By providing an adhesive on the side of the first insulating film facing the battery cell, the first insulating film adheres closely to the battery cell and is less likely to fall off, ensuring that the first insulating film can play an insulating protective role for the end cap of the battery cell.

[0022] In some embodiments, the thickness of the main body is between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm, and the thickness of the extension is 0.1 mm.

[0023] If the thickness of the body is too large, it increases the covering height of the first insulating film on the end cap, affecting the normal use of components attached to the end cap, and also increases the weight of the first insulating film, increasing the risk of it falling off during the automated assembly process. If the thickness of the body is too small, the first insulating film will not be rigid enough and will be prone to deformation during the assembly process, making assembly more difficult. Therefore, by setting the thickness of the body to 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, not only can the normal use of components attached to the end cap be ensured, but assembly will also be easier.

[0024] If the thickness of the extension portion is too large, it will take up space in the battery, which is detrimental to improving the energy density of the battery. If the thickness is too small, it will be detrimental to producing the first insulating film and will be difficult to ensure insulation protection for the battery cells. Therefore, by setting the thickness of the extension portion to 0.1 mm, not only can insulation protection for the battery cells be achieved, but excessive space occupation can also be avoided, which helps to improve the energy density of the battery.

[0025] In some embodiments, the body portion is rectangular and the number of extensions is four.

[0026] Because the main body is rectangular and the number of extensions is four, it is possible to ensure that the main body completely covers the end caps of the battery cell, and the extensions can cover at least a portion of each outer wall after being folded, so that all connection points between the end caps and the side walls are covered by the first insulating film, and the insulating film provides insulating protection to the battery cell.

[0027] In some embodiments, the battery cell further includes a second insulating film that encases the housing and whose edge toward the extension does not extend beyond the edge where the housing and the end cap intersect, for insulating and protecting the battery cell housing.

[0028] The second insulating film can provide insulating protection for the battery cell housing, and there is no need to fold the second insulating film back onto the end cap. This effectively avoids interference with components such as electrode terminals on the end cap or flanges due to protruding structures on the end cap, while also preventing the insulating film from falling off, ensuring the insulating film's insulating protection for the battery cell.

[0029] In some embodiments, an edge of the second insulating film facing the extension is connected to an edge of the extension.

[0030] The edge of the second insulating film facing the extension portion is connected to the edge of the extension portion, so that the battery cell housing has neither overlapping portions of the insulating film nor portions not covered by the insulating film, which provides insulation and protection for the battery cell while also providing some degree of waterproofing. It also prevents overlapping portions from occupying space in the battery cell case, which helps improve battery density.

[0031] In a second aspect, the present application provides a battery including the battery cell of the above embodiment and a housing for accommodating the battery cell.

[0032] In a third aspect, the present application provides a power consuming device including a battery according to any of the above embodiments for providing electrical energy.

[0033] In a fourth aspect, the present application provides a method for manufacturing a battery cell, including the steps of: providing a housing having a first opening for accommodating an electrode assembly of a battery cell; providing an end cap for covering the first opening; and providing a first insulating film for insulating and protecting the end cap, the first insulating film including: a main body portion for covering a surface of the end cap away from the housing; and a plurality of extension portions surrounding the main body portion, each connected to one side of the main body portion, extending away from the center of the main body portion, and capable of being folded toward the housing to cover at least a portion of the outer wall of the housing.

[0034] In a fifth aspect, the present application provides a battery cell manufacturing apparatus including: a first providing module for providing a housing having a first opening for accommodating an electrode assembly of a battery cell; a second providing module for providing an end cap for covering the first opening; and a third providing module for providing a first insulating film for insulating and protecting the end cap, the first insulating film including: a main body portion for covering a surface of the end cap away from the housing; and a plurality of extension portions surrounding the main body portion, each connected to one side of the main body portion, extending away from the center of the main body portion, and capable of being bent toward the housing to cover at least a portion of the outer wall of the housing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] In order to more clearly describe the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the drawings that need to be used in the embodiments of the present application will be briefly described below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application, and those skilled in the art can further obtain other drawings based on the drawings without any creative work. [Figure 1] 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a vehicle provided by some embodiments of the present application. [Figure 2] 1 is an exploded structural schematic diagram of a battery provided in accordance with some embodiments of the present application. [Figure 3] 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a battery cell provided by some embodiments of the present application. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram of a battery cell provided in accordance with some embodiments of the present application. [Figure 5] 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a first insulating film provided in some embodiments of the present application. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram of a battery cell coated with a first insulating film provided by some embodiments of the present application. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is an enlarged structural schematic diagram of part M in FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a structural schematic diagram of another battery cell provided by some embodiments of the present application. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a structural schematic diagram of another first insulating film provided in some embodiments of the present application. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a structural schematic diagram of another battery cell provided by some embodiments of the present application. [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic flow chart of a method for manufacturing a battery cell provided by some embodiments of the present application. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a battery cell manufacturing apparatus provided in accordance with some embodiments of the present application.

[0036] In the drawing sections, the drawings are not drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present application will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings and examples. The detailed description of the following examples and the drawings are used to exemplify the principles of the present application, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present application, i.e., the present application is not limited to the described examples.

[0038] In the description of this application, it should be understood that "plurality" means two or more unless otherwise specified. Directions or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer" are merely for the purpose of facilitating or simplifying the description of this application and do not indicate or suggest that the designated device or element necessarily has a particular orientation or is constructed or operated in a particular direction, and should not be understood as limiting this application. Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are merely for illustrative purposes and should not be understood as indicating or suggesting relative importance. "Perpendicular" does not mean perpendicular in the strict sense, but rather within a tolerance range. "Parallel" does not mean parallel in the strict sense, but rather within a tolerance range.

[0039] Any directional terms used in the following description refer to the directions shown in the drawings and do not limit the specific structure of the present application. It should be further explained that, unless otherwise clearly specified or limited, the terms "attach," "connect," and "connect" should be understood in a broad sense, and may refer to, for example, a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection, a direct connection, or an indirect connection via an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present application according to the specific circumstances.

[0040] In the embodiments of the present application, the same reference numerals represent the same elements, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same elements will be omitted in different embodiments. It should be understood that the dimensions of each element in the embodiments of the present application, such as thickness, length, and width, and the overall dimensions of the integrated device, such as thickness, length, and width, are merely exemplary and do not impose any limitations on the present application.

[0041] In this application, the battery cells may include, but are not limited to, lithium ion secondary batteries, lithium ion primary batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium lithium ion batteries, sodium ion batteries, or magnesium ion batteries. The battery cells may have a cylindrical, flat, rectangular, or other shape, but are not limited to, in this application. Battery cells are generally divided into three types according to packaging methods: cylindrical battery cells, prismatic battery cells, and soft-pack battery cells. The embodiments of this application are not limited to these types.

[0042] The battery referred to in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module containing one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery referred to in this application may include a battery module or a battery pack. The battery 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.

[0043] A battery cell includes an electrode assembly and an electrolyte, and the electrode assembly is composed of a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separator. The battery cell operates mainly through the movement of metal ions between the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate. The positive electrode plate includes a positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode active material layer. The positive electrode active material layer is coated on the surface of the positive electrode current collector, and the positive electrode current collector without the positive electrode active material layer protrudes from the positive electrode current collector with the positive electrode active material layer coated thereon, and the positive electrode current collector without the positive electrode active material layer is called a positive electrode tab. Taking a lithium-ion battery as an example, the positive electrode current collector may be made of aluminum, and the positive electrode active material may be lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, lithium manganese oxide, etc. The negative electrode plate includes a negative electrode current collector and a negative electrode active material layer. The negative electrode active material layer is coated on the surface of the negative electrode current collector, and the negative electrode current collector without the negative electrode active material layer protrudes from the negative electrode current collector with the negative electrode active material layer coated thereon. The negative electrode current collector without the negative electrode active material layer is referred to as a negative electrode tab. The material of the negative electrode current collector may be copper, and the negative electrode active material may be carbon or silicon. To ensure a large current flow without melting, the positive electrode tabs are multiple and stacked, and the negative electrode tabs are multiple and stacked. The material of the separator may be polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE). The electrode assembly may have a wound structure or a stacked structure, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0044] To meet different power needs, a battery can include multiple battery cells, which can be connected in series, parallel, or series-parallel, with series-parallel connection referring to a combination of series and parallel connections. Alternatively, multiple battery cells can first be connected in series, parallel, or series-parallel to form a battery module, and then multiple battery modules can be connected in series, parallel, or series-parallel to form a battery. That is, multiple battery cells can directly form a battery, or a battery module can first be formed, and then the battery module can form a battery. The battery is further provided in a power consumption device to provide electrical energy to the power consumption device.

[0045] In the development of battery technology, various design factors such as performance parameters such as energy density, cycle life, discharge capacity, charge / discharge ratio, etc. must be considered simultaneously, and battery safety must also be taken into consideration. To improve the safety of battery cells, it is usually necessary to encase the battery cell case in an insulating film.

[0046] Current solutions for encasing an insulating film around a battery cell case typically involve folding the insulating film encasing the outer wall of the battery cell over the end cap of the battery cell, then gluing the insulating film protecting the end cap to the folded portion to secure the insulating film. However, for narrow battery cells or battery cells with a convex hull on the end cap, the electrode terminals or the edges of the convex hull on the end cap are close to the edges of the battery cell, so when the insulating film on the outer wall of the battery cell is folded over onto the end cap, it is received by components such as the electrode terminals and explosion-proof valves on the end cap, causing the flange of the insulating film to warp. At the same time, because the insulating film is received by components such as the electrode terminals and explosion-proof valves on the end cap when it is folded over onto the end cap of the battery cell, relatively little area of ​​the end cap is available for bonding to the insulating film, which is likely to cause the insulating film to fall off the end cap, posing a safety risk.

[0047] In view of the above, the present invention provides a battery cell, in which a first insulating film on an end cap of the battery cell has an extension that can be bent toward the battery cell housing to cover a part of the outer wall of the housing. In the embodiment provided by the present application, the insulating film on the outer wall of the battery cell does not need to be folded back onto the end cap, and is not interfered with by components such as electrode terminals and explosion-proof valves provided on the end cap of the battery cell, thereby achieving good insulating effect and ensuring the insulating film's insulation protection for the battery cell.

[0048] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of the present application are applicable to various battery-powered power-consuming devices. The power-consuming devices may be vehicles, mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, power tools, etc. The vehicles may be gasoline-powered vehicles, gas-powered vehicles, or new energy vehicles. The new energy vehicles may be battery-powered electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, extended-range electric vehicles, etc. The spacecraft may include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, spaceships, etc. The electric toys include game consoles, electric car toys, electric propulsion toy boats, electric car toys, and other stationary or mobile electric toys. The power tools include electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, electric impact drills, metal cutting power tools such as concrete vibrators and electric planers, polishing power tools, mounting power tools, and railroad power tools. The embodiments of the present application are not particularly limited to the above power-consuming devices.

[0049] In the following embodiments, for ease of explanation, a case will be described in which the power consuming device is a vehicle.

[0050] For example, FIG. 1 shows a structural schematic diagram of a vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the present application. The vehicle 1 may be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. The new energy vehicle may be a rechargeable battery-powered electric vehicle, a hybrid electric vehicle, or a range-extending electric vehicle. A motor 40, a controller 30, and a battery 10 may be provided inside the vehicle 1. The controller 30 controls the battery 10 to supply power to the motor 40. For example, the battery 10 may be provided at the bottom, front, or tail of the vehicle 1. The battery 10 may be used to power the vehicle 1. For example, the battery 10 may be used as an operating power source for the vehicle 1, for circuit systems of the vehicle 1, and for power needs during startup, navigation, and driving of the vehicle 1. In another embodiment of the present application, the battery 10 may not only be used as an operating power source for the vehicle 1, but also as a driving power source for the vehicle 1, providing driving power to the vehicle 1 instead of, or in place of, fuel oil or natural gas.

[0051] To meet different power usage needs, a battery can include multiple battery cells, which can be connected in series, parallel, or series-parallel, with the series-parallel connection referring to a combination of series and parallel connections. A battery may also be called a battery pack. Alternatively, multiple battery cells can be first connected in series, parallel, or series-parallel to form a battery module, and then multiple battery modules can be connected in series, parallel, or series-parallel to form a battery. That is, multiple battery cells can directly form a battery, or a battery module can be first formed, and then the battery module can be used to form a battery.

[0052] For example, FIG. 2 shows a structural schematic diagram of a battery 10 according to an embodiment of the present application. The battery 10 can include at least one battery module 200. The battery module 200 includes a plurality of battery cells 20. The battery 10 further includes a housing 11, which has a hollow structure, and the plurality of battery cells 20 are housed within the housing 11. FIG. 2 shows a possible implementation of the housing 11 according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 11 can include two parts, referred to herein as a first part 111 and a second part 112, respectively. The first part 111 and the second part 112 are engaged with each other. The shapes of the first part 111 and the second part 112 can be determined according to the shape of the battery module 200 after assembly, and at least one of the first part 111 and the second part 112 has an opening. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the first part 111 and the second part 112 may both be hollow rectangular parallelepipeds, each having only one open side, with the opening of the first part 111 and the opening of the second part 112 facing each other, and the first part 111 and the second part 112 engaging with each other to form a housing 11 having a sealed chamber.

[0053] 2, only one of the first part 111 and the second part 112 may be a hollow rectangular parallelepiped with an opening, and the other may be plate-shaped so as to cover the opening. For example, in the case where the second part 112 is a hollow rectangular parallelepiped with only one face being an open face and the first part 111 is plate-shaped, the first part 111 covers the opening of the second part 112 to form a housing 11 having a sealed chamber, and the chamber can be used to house multiple battery cells 20. The multiple battery cells 20 are combined by being connected in parallel, series, or series-parallel with each other, and then placed in the housing 11 formed by engaging the first part 111 and the second part 112.

[0054] Optionally, the battery 10 may further include other structures, which will not be described again here. For example, the battery 10 may further include bus bar members for realizing electrical connection between the multiple battery cells 20, such as parallel connection, series connection, or series-parallel connection. Specifically, the bus bar members can connect the electrode terminals of the battery cells 20 to realize electrical connection between the battery cells 20. Furthermore, the bus bar members can be fixed to the electrode terminals of the battery cells 20 by welding. Electrical energy from the multiple battery cells 20 can further be extracted through the housing 11 by a conductive mechanism.

[0055] According to different power needs, the number of battery cells 20 in the battery module 200 may be set to any value. Multiple battery cells 20 can be connected in series, parallel, or series-parallel to achieve large capacity or power. Since each battery 10 may include a large number of battery cells 20, the battery cells 20 are provided in groups for ease of installation, and the battery cells 20 in each group constitute a battery module 200. The number of battery cells 20 included in the battery module 200 is not limited and can be set as needed.

[0056] The battery 10 may include multiple battery modules 200, which may be connected in series, parallel, or series-parallel configurations.

[0057] 3, which is a structural schematic diagram of a battery cell 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell 20 includes one or more electrode assemblies 22, a housing 211, and end caps 212. The housing 211 and the end caps 212 form a case or battery box 21.

[0058] The housing 211 is a member for accommodating the electrode assembly 22. The housing 211 may have a hollow structure with an opening at one end, or may have a hollow structure with openings at opposite ends. When the housing 211 has a hollow structure with an opening at one end, one end cap 212 may be provided. When the housing 211 has a hollow structure with openings at opposite ends, two end caps 212 may be provided, and the two end caps 212 each cover the openings at both ends of the housing 211. The housing 211 may be made of various materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, or an aluminum alloy. The housing 211 may have various shapes, such as a cylindrical body or a rectangular parallelepiped. The shape of the housing 211 is determined according to the shape after assembling one or more electrode assemblies 22. For example, the housing 211 may be a hollow rectangular parallelepiped, cube, or cylinder, and one surface of the housing 211 has an opening so that one or more electrode assemblies 22 can be placed inside the housing 211. For example, if the housing 211 is a hollow rectangular parallelepiped or cube, one plane of the housing 211 is an open surface, i.e., the plane does not have a wall, thereby allowing communication between the inside and outside of the housing 211. If the housing 211 can be a hollow cylinder, an end surface of the housing 211 is an open surface, i.e., the end surface does not have a wall, thereby allowing communication between the inside and outside of the housing 211. The end cap 212 covers the opening and is connected to the housing 211 to form a sealed chamber for placing the electrode assembly 22. 3, the housing 211 has a rectangular parallelepiped structure and is a hollow structure with an opening at one end. The walls of the housing 211 and the end caps 212 are both called walls of the battery cell 20, and in the case of a rectangular parallelepiped battery cell 20, the walls of the housing 211 include a bottom wall and four side walls. The housing 211 is filled with an electrolyte, for example, an electrolyte solution.

[0059] The end cap 212 is a member that covers the opening of the housing 211 to isolate the internal environment of the battery cell 20 from the external environment. The shape of the end cap 212 can be adapted to the shape of the housing 211. As shown in FIG. 3 , the housing 211 has a rectangular parallelepiped structure, and the end cap 212 has a rectangular plate-like structure that fits the housing 211. The end cap 212 may be made of various materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, or aluminum alloy, and the material of the end cap 212 and the material of the housing 211 may be the same or different.

[0060] The battery cell 20 may further include two electrode terminals 214, which may be provided on the end cap 212. The two electrode terminals 214 are fixed to the plane on which the end cap 212 is located, and are a positive electrode terminal 214a and a negative electrode terminal 214b, respectively. Each electrode terminal 214 is provided with a corresponding connecting member 23, which may also be called a current collecting member 23 and is located between the end cap 212 and the electrode assembly 22 to establish an electrical connection between the electrode assembly 22 and the electrode terminals 214.

[0061] The electrode assembly 22 is a component where an electrochemical reaction occurs in the battery cell 20. The electrode assembly 22 may be cylindrical, rectangular, or the like. When the electrode assembly 22 has a cylindrical structure, the housing 211 may also have a cylindrical structure. When the electrode assembly 22 has a rectangular structure, the housing 211 may also have a rectangular structure. As shown in FIG. 3 , each electrode assembly 22 has a first tab 221a and a second tab 222a. The first tab 221a and the second tab 222a have opposite polarities. For example, if the first tab 221a is a positive electrode tab, the second tab 222a is a negative electrode tab. The positive electrode tab can be formed by stacking portions of positive electrode plates that are not coated with a positive electrode active material layer, and the negative electrode tab can be formed by stacking portions of negative electrode plates that are not coated with a negative electrode active material layer. The first tabs 221a of one or more electrode assemblies 22 are connected to one electrode terminal via one connection member 23, and the second tabs 222a of one or more electrode assemblies 22 are connected to another electrode terminal via another connection member 23. For example, the positive electrode terminal 214a is connected to a positive electrode tab via one connection member 23, and the negative electrode terminal 214b is connected to a negative electrode tab via another connection member 23.

[0062] In this battery cell 20, one or more electrode assemblies 22 may be provided in the housing 211 depending on the actual needs of use. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, four independent electrode assemblies 22 are provided in the battery cell 20.

[0063] The battery cell 20 may further be provided with a pressure reducing mechanism 213. The pressure reducing mechanism 213 is used to operate and release the internal pressure or temperature when the internal pressure or temperature of the battery cell reaches a threshold value.

[0064] The pressure reduction mechanism 213 may be any of various possible pressure reduction structures, and the embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto. For example, the pressure reduction mechanism 213 may be a temperature-sensitive pressure reduction mechanism that is arranged to melt when the internal temperature of the battery cell 20 provided with the pressure reduction mechanism 213 reaches a threshold, and / or the pressure reduction mechanism 213 may be a pressure-sensitive pressure reduction mechanism that is arranged to burst when the internal air pressure of the battery cell 20 provided with the pressure reduction mechanism 213 reaches a threshold.

[0065] The battery cell 20 shown in FIG. 3 is merely an example, and in actual production, the outer shape of the battery cell 20 can be changed according to different needs.

[0066] To insulate and protect the battery cell 20, an insulating film 25 may be provided on the outside of the battery cell 20, as shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a battery cell 20 provided according to some embodiments of the present application. The battery cell 20 shown in FIG. 4 includes a housing 211, an end cap 212, and a first insulating film 251. The housing 211 has a first opening (not shown) for accommodating an electrode assembly of the battery cell 20, the end cap 212 is used to cover the first opening, and the first insulating film 251 is used to insulate and protect the end cap 212. The first insulating film 251 includes a main body portion 2511 for covering a surface of the end cap 212 away from the housing 211, and a plurality of extension portions 2512 surrounding the main body portion 2511, each connected to one side of the main body portion 2511, extending away from the center of the main body portion 2511, and capable of being bent toward the housing 211 to cover at least a portion of the outer wall of the housing 211.

[0067] For ease of understanding and explanation, only a rectangular parallelepiped battery cell 20 is described as an example in the embodiments of the present application, but it should be understood that the embodiments of the present application are also applicable to a polygonal prism-shaped battery cell 20 and to a battery cell 20 in which the plane on which the end cap 212 is located is not perpendicular to the side wall.

[0068] The housing 211 has a hollow structure, has a first opening at one end, and is a member for accommodating the electrode assembly of the battery cell 20. The end cap 212 is used to cover the first opening so as to isolate the internal environment of the battery cell 20 from the external environment. Based on this, the battery cell 20 provided in the embodiment of the present application further includes a first insulating film 251.

[0069] The first insulating film 251 includes a main body portion 2511 and an extension portion 2512. The main body portion 2511 refers to the portion of the first insulating film 251 that covers the surface of the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20 that is away from the housing 211, and the extension portion 2512 refers to the portion of the first insulating film 251 that covers the outer wall of the housing 211. One extension portion 2512 is connected to each side of the main body portion 2511, and the multiple extension portions 2512 surround the main body portion 2511.

[0070] The connection points between the main body 2511 and the multiple extensions 2512 cover the connection points between the end caps 212 of the battery cells 20 and the housing 211. The extensions 2512 covering different surfaces of the outer wall can be in contact with each other so that the extensions 2512 on different surfaces are closely connected at the connection points on different surfaces of the outer wall and form a gap-free insulating film. Mutual contact between the extensions 2512 refers to, for example, one side of one extension 2512 being connected to one side of another extension 2512, and the connection points of the two extensions 2512 may be the connection points of the surfaces of the outer wall that the two extensions 2512 respectively cover.

[0071] 4 illustrates an example of a narrow battery cell 20, which is characterized by a short distance between the edges of the battery cell 20 and the edges of components such as the electrode terminal 214 provided on the end cap 212. Because the first insulating film 251 can simultaneously cover the end cap 212 and part of the outer wall of the battery cell 20, there is no need to adhere it to the end cap 212 using an insulating film folded back. Even if the distance between the electrode terminal 214 and the edge of the battery cell 20 is short, there is no problem of interference with the insulating film flange, and at the same time, the small adhesive area can also avoid the problem of the insulating film on the end cap 212 falling off.

[0072] Hereinafter, the structure of the first insulating film 251 when the end cap 212 is not covered will be described with reference to FIG. 5, taking the first insulating film 251 in a narrow battery cell 20 as an example. FIG. 5 is a structural schematic diagram of the first insulating film 251 provided in some embodiments of the present application. FIG. 5 only shows the structure of the first insulating film 251 when the battery cell 20 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape; the first insulating film 251 of battery cells 20 with other structures can be flexibly provided according to the specific shape of the battery cell 20.

[0073] As can be seen from FIG. 5 , the first insulating film 251 includes a plurality of extension portions 2512, each connected to one side of the main body portion 2511. Each extension portion 2512 extends away from the center of the main body portion 2511 along a direction parallel to the main body portion 2511. For example, as shown in FIG. 5 , the extension direction of each extension portion 2512 may be perpendicular to the connecting side of the main body portion 2511. The first insulating film 251 is in a planar state before covering the battery cell 20, i.e., the planes on which the main body portion 2511 and the extension portions 2512 are located are parallel to each other. During the assembly process, an assembly machine places the planar first insulating film 251 on the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20, and then, as shown in FIG. 6 , presses down on the extension portions 2512 and bends the extension portions 2512 toward the housing 211 to cover the outer wall of the battery cell 20. As can be seen from FIGS. 5 and 6, before the first insulating film 251 insulates and protects the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20, the extensions 2512 are separated from one another.

[0074] Since the first insulating film 251 is used to insulate and protect the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20, the distance by which the extension portion 2512 extends away from the center of the body portion 2511 can be set according to actual needs. For example, the extension portion 2512 may cover only a portion of the outer wall of the battery cell 20 after being folded, or may cover the entire outer wall.

[0075] By covering the end caps 212 of the battery cells 20 with the first insulating film 251 having the extensions 2512, the first insulating film 251 can be tightly attached to the end caps 212 of the battery cells 20, avoiding the problem of flange warping caused by interference between the insulating film and components attached to the end caps 212 of the battery cells 20, and ensuring the insulating film's insulation protection for the battery cells 20. Furthermore, before covering the end caps 212 of the battery cells 20, the extensions 2512 and the main body 2511 of the first insulating film 251 are on the same plane, which saves stacking space on the assembly machine during assembly; that is, a large number of first insulating films 251 can be stacked at once on the assembly machine, improving production efficiency. Because the extension portion 2512 and the main body portion 2511 are on the same plane, they are less likely to deform during the assembly process, and even if slight deformation occurs, the effect of this deformation is eliminated in the process of pressing down the first insulating film 251, reducing the requirements for positioning accuracy of the assembly machine and improving production efficiency while ensuring insulation protection for the battery cells 20.

[0076] According to some embodiments of the present application, the first insulating film 251 optionally has a second opening 253 for avoiding the electrode terminal 214 and the pressure reducing mechanism 213 of the battery cell 20 .

[0077] The second openings 253 are openings in the main body 2511 of the first insulating film 251 and penetrate the main body 2511 of the first insulating film 251. The number and shape of the second openings 253 are not limited and can be set depending on the components in the end cap 212 that need to be avoided. For example, if the end cap 212 is provided with electrode terminals 214 and pressure reducing mechanisms 213, one second opening 253 can be provided for each electrode terminal 214 and pressure reducing mechanism 213 so that they can contact the outside through the second opening 253. The shape and size of the second openings 253 can also be adaptively designed depending on the shape and area of ​​the end cap 212 occupied by the electrode terminals 214 and pressure reducing mechanisms 213. The second openings 253 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 are merely examples and are not limiting. In Figure 6, in order to more intuitively show the state of the first insulating film 251 during the process of covering the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20, only the second opening 253 is shown, and the electrode terminal 214 and pressure reduction mechanism 213 corresponding to the second opening 253 are not shown.

[0078] Providing the second opening 253 in the first insulating film 251 allows for normal use of components provided on the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20, such as the electrode terminal 214 and the pressure reducing mechanism 213. Portions of the end cap 212 where no components are provided can be covered by the first insulating film 251, ensuring the insulating film's protection of the battery cell 20.

[0079] According to some embodiments of the present application, optionally, the thickness of the extension portion 2512 is less than the thickness of the main body portion 2511 .

[0080] The thickness of the main body portion 2511 and the thickness of the extension portion 2512 refer to the thickness of the film itself at the corresponding portion. As shown in FIG. 7, FIG. 7 is a structural schematic diagram enlarging portion M in FIG. 5, that is, portion M of the first insulating film 251 of the embodiment of the present application. The thickness of the main body portion 2511 shown in FIG. 7 is L1, and the thickness of the extension portion 2512 is L2. As can be seen from FIG. 7, the thickness L1 of the main body portion 2511 is greater than the thickness L2 of the extension portion 2512, and a step structure is formed at the connection between the main body portion 2511 and the extension portion 2512. After the extension portion 2512 is bent into the housing 211, the thinner extension portion 2512 covers the outer wall of the housing 211, and the thicker main body portion 2511 covers the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20.

[0081] It should be understood that Figure 7 only shows the difference in thickness between the main body portion 2511 and the extension portion 2512 of the first insulating film 251 in a narrow battery cell 20, and that in other types of battery cells 20, such as a battery cell 20 having a portion on the end cap 212 that protrudes away from the interior of the battery cell 20, the thickness of the main body portion 2511 still refers to the thickness of the film itself and does not include the height of the corresponding protrusion portion 255 on the first insulating film 251 that protrudes from the main body portion 2511.

[0082] The body portion 2511 has a certain thickness, which ensures the rigidity of the first insulating film 251 and allows it to maintain its original shape without deformation during the process of being assembled to the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20 by an assembly machine, ensuring accurate attachment of the first insulating film 251. The thickness of the extension portion 2512 is smaller than that of the body portion 2511, which not only provides insulation and protection for the outer wall but also occupies as little space as possible in the battery, helping to improve the energy density of the battery.

[0083] According to some embodiments of the present application, optionally, the thickness of the main body portion 2511 is 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, and the thickness of the extension portion 2512 is 0.1 mm.

[0084] The thickness of the main body 2511 and the thickness of the extension 2512 refer to the thicknesses of different parts of the first insulating film 251. As shown in FIG. 7, the thickness of the main body 2511 is L1, and the thickness of the extension 2512 is L2, i.e., the value of L1 is 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, and the value of L2 is 0.1 mm.

[0085] If the thickness of the main body 2511 is too large, it increases the covering height of the first insulating film 251 on the end cap 212, affecting the normal use of the components attached to the end cap 212, and also increases the weight of the first insulating film 251, increasing the risk of it falling off during an automated assembly process. If the thickness of the main body 2511 is too small, the first insulating film 251 will not be rigid enough and will be prone to deformation during the assembly process, making assembly more difficult. Therefore, by setting the thickness of the main body to 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, it is possible to ensure the normal use of the components attached to the end cap 212 and also to facilitate assembly.

[0086] If the thickness of the extension 2512 is too large, it will take up space in the battery, which is detrimental to improving the energy density of the battery. If the thickness is too small, it will be detrimental to the production of the first insulating film 251 and it will be difficult to ensure insulation protection for the battery cells 20. Therefore, by setting the thickness of the extension 2512 to 0.1 mm, not only can insulation protection for the battery cells 20 be achieved, but excessive space occupation can also be avoided, which helps to improve the energy density of the battery.

[0087] According to some embodiments of the present application, a reinforcing rib 254 is optionally provided at the connection between extension portion 2512 and body portion 2511 .

[0088] Because the first insulating film 251 itself is thin, it is prone to breakage, resulting in insulation failure, if it is subjected to excessive external force or if a molten bead or burr is present at the welded portion between the end cap 212 and the first insulating film 251. Furthermore, if there is a difference in thickness between the main body portion 2511 and the extension portion 2512, the extension portion 2512 is also prone to breakage at the connection portion with the main body portion 2511 during the bending process, making it impossible to ensure the insulation protection of the first insulating film 251 for the end cap 212. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 7 , reinforcing ribs 254 may be provided at the connection portion between the extension portion 2512 and the main body portion 2511. The shape and number of the reinforcing ribs may be determined as needed. If there is a difference in thickness between the extension portion 2512 and the main body portion 2511, the reinforcing ribs 254 may be provided in a stepped structure formed between the extension portion 2512 and the main body portion 2511. When the extension 2512 of the first insulating film 251 provided with the reinforcing rib 254 is bent, it can be bent along the edge of the reinforcing rib 254 toward the housing 211 of the battery cell 20 .

[0089] By providing a reinforcing rib 254 at the connection point between the extension portion 2512 and the main body portion 2511, the strength of the first insulating film 251 is improved, damage to the first insulating film 251 that would cause an insulation failure is avoided, and the insulating protection of the first insulating film 251 against the battery cell 20 can be guaranteed.

[0090] According to some embodiments of the present application, optionally, the main body portion 2511 has a protrusion 255, which protrudes from the main body portion 2511 on a side of the main body portion 2511 away from the battery cell 20 and is recessed into the main body portion 2511 on a side toward the battery cell 20 so as to form a cavity structure, and the cavity structure is used to accommodate the protruding portion of the end cap 212 away from the inside of the battery cell 20.

[0091] FIG. 8 is a structural schematic diagram of another battery cell 20 provided according to some embodiments of the present application, showing the battery cell 20 having a convex hull on the end cap 212.

[0092] In a battery cell 20 having a convex hull in the end cap 212, the main body portion 2511 of the first insulating film 251 may have a protrusion 255 whose shape and size match the shape and size of the convex hull of the battery cell 20. Specifically, the protrusion 255 protrudes from the main body portion 2511 on the side of the main body portion 2511 away from the battery cell 20 and is recessed into the main body portion 2511 on the side facing the battery cell 20. That is, the protrusion 255 in the main body portion 2511 can form a cavity structure on the side facing the battery cell 20, and this cavity structure can be used to accommodate the convex hull of the battery cell 20. Components such as the electrode terminal 214 and the explosion-proof valve may be provided in the convex hull, and accordingly, the protrusion 255 may have a second opening 253 to avoid components such as the electrode terminal 214 and the explosion-proof valve in the end cap 212.

[0093] 9 is a structural schematic diagram of another first insulating film 251 provided according to some embodiments of the present application, illustrating the structure of the first insulating film 251 when it does not cover the end cap 212. Each extension 2512 of the first insulating film 251 shown in FIG. 9 is connected to one side of the main body 2511, and when it does not cover at least a portion of the end cap 212 and the outer wall of the battery cell 20, each extension 2512 is separated from each other.

[0094] The first insulating film 251 has a protrusion 255, which adaptively insulates and protects the battery cell 20 having a convex hull in the end cap 212, prevents the protruding part of the end cap 212 that is away from the inside of the battery cell 20 from interfering with the insulating film, avoids the problem of insulation failure due to poor adhesion of the insulating film, ensures the insulating film protects the battery cell 20, and improves the safety performance of the battery cell 20.

[0095] According to some embodiments of the present application, optionally, the edge of the portion of the battery cell 20 protruding from the end cap 212 has a chamfered structure, and the edge of the cavity structure has a transition structure that matches the chamfered structure.

[0096] 8 and 9 will be taken as examples. The portion of the battery cell 20 protruding from the end cap 212 shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the edges of the rectangular parallelepiped may have a chamfered structure. Accordingly, in order to fit the portion of the battery cell 20 protruding from the end cap 212, the protrusion 255 of the first insulating film 251 may also have a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the edge of the cavity structure may have a transition structure that fits the chamfered structure. For example, the portion of the cavity structure that covers the edge of the chamfered structure has the transition structure.

[0097] By providing a chamfered structure on the edge of the portion of the battery cell 20 that protrudes from the end cap 212, the transition between the two intersecting surfaces of the end cap 212 can be made more natural, and the accuracy requirements for the assembly machine to align the first insulating film 251 with the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20 can be reduced. Even if there is a slight difference, the chamfered structure can guide it to an accurate position. In addition, the cavity structure of the first insulating film 251 has a transition structure that matches the chamfered structure, which allows the first insulating film 251 to be tightly attached to the portion that protrudes from the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20, preventing the insulating film from loosening at the corners and ensuring the insulating film's insulation protection for the battery cell 20.

[0098] According to some embodiments of the present application, optionally, the body portion 2511 and the extension portion 2512 are made of the same material and are of unitary construction.

[0099] Since the main body portion 2511 and the extension portion 2512 may be made of the same material, such as polypropylene (PP), the first insulating film 251 can be manufactured by integral molding. In the manufacturing process of the first insulating film 251, by providing a corresponding structure in a mold, the main body portion 2511 and the extension portion 2512 can be simultaneously formed by integral molding. Furthermore, when a reinforcing rib 254 is provided at the connection point between the extension portion 2512 and the main body portion 2511, the reinforcing rib 254 may be made of the same material, or a structure corresponding to the reinforcing rib 254 may be provided in the mold, and the entire first insulating film 251 may be similarly formed by integral molding.

[0100] Because the main body portion 2511 and the extension portion 2512 are made of the same material and have an integrally molded structure, the main body portion 2511 and the extension portion 2512 can be connected consistently, eliminating the need for a separate connection method. This reduces the possibility of defects occurring in the first insulating film 251 itself, and ensures insulating protection of the main body portion 2511 and the extension portion 2512 against the battery cell 20.

[0101] According to some embodiments of the present application, an adhesive material for adhering the first insulating film 251 to the battery cell 20 is optionally provided on the side of the first insulating film 251 facing the battery cell 20 .

[0102] The adhesive may be a viscous material and is applied to the surface of the first insulating film 251 facing the battery cell 20. For example, the adhesive may be a rubber backing. During the assembly process, an assembly machine presses down the main body 2511 of the first insulating film 251 and allows the adhesive to adhere it to the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20. Similarly, the extension 2512 is pressed down and then folded toward the housing 211 of the battery cell 20, and the adhesive on the side of the extension 2512 facing the battery cell 20 is folded and then adhered to the outer wall of the battery cell 20, thereby adhering the first insulating film 251 to the battery cell 20.

[0103] By providing an adhesive on the side of the first insulating film 251 facing the battery cell 20, the first insulating film 251 adheres closely to the battery cell 20 and is less likely to fall off, and it is ensured that the first insulating film 251 plays an insulating protective role for the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20.

[0104] According to some embodiments of the present application, optionally, the main body portion 2511 is rectangular, and the number of the plurality of extension portions 2512 is four.

[0105] When the shape of the battery cell 20 requiring insulating protection is a rectangular prism, the shape of the main body 2511 of the first insulating film 251 may be a rectangle, and one extension portion 2512 is connected to each side of the rectangle, so the number of extension portions 2512 is four.

[0106] Because the main body 2511 is rectangular and the number of extensions 2512 is four, it can be ensured that the main body 2511 completely covers the end caps 212 of the battery cell 20, and the extensions 2512 can cover at least a portion of each outer wall after being folded, so that all connection points between the end caps 212 and the side walls can be covered by the first insulating film 251, and the insulating film can ensure insulating protection for the battery cell 20.

[0107] According to some embodiments of the present application, optionally, the battery cell 20 further includes a second insulating film 252 that encases the housing 211 and whose edge toward the extension 2512 does not exceed the edge where the housing 211 and the end cap 212 intersect, for insulating and protecting the housing 211 of the battery cell 20.

[0108] The battery cell 20 shown in FIG. 10 will be described as an example. FIG. 10 is a structural schematic diagram of another battery cell 20 provided according to some embodiments of the present application. The battery cell 20 in FIG. 10 further includes a second insulating film 252 that wraps around the outer surface of the housing 211 of the battery cell 20 and insulates and protects the housing 211 of the battery cell 20. When the first insulating film 251 insulates and protects the end cap 212 of the battery cell 20, the extension portion 2512 of the first insulating film 251 can be folded toward the housing 211 to cover at least a portion of the outer wall of the housing 211. Therefore, the second insulating film 252 does not need to cover the entire outer wall of the housing 211 when covering the housing 211. Furthermore, in the embodiments of the present application, the second insulating film 252 on the side wall does not need to be folded back toward the end cap 212, and the edge of the second insulating film 252 toward the extension portion 2512 does not need to extend beyond the edge where the housing 211 and the end cap 212 intersect. Therefore, in the battery cell 20 provided by the embodiments of the present application, the second insulating film 252 may overlap the extension portion 2512 of the first insulating film 251, or may have a certain distance between it and the extension portion 2512 of the first insulating film 251, and the edge of the second insulating film 252 facing the extension portion 2512 may overlap the edge of the extension portion 2512.

[0109] For ease of explanation, there is a certain gap between the second insulating film 252 and the housing 211 of the battery cell 20 shown in FIG. 10, but in reality, the second insulating film 252 is in close contact with the housing 211, and the second insulating film 252 can be bonded to the housing 211 of the battery cell 20 by, for example, an adhesive.

[0110] The second insulating film 252 can provide insulating protection for the housing 211 of the battery cell 20, and there is no need to fold the second insulating film 252 back onto the end cap 212. This effectively avoids interference with components such as the electrode terminal 214 on the end cap 212 or with flanges due to the protruding structure on the end cap 212, while preventing the insulating film from falling off, and ensures the insulating film's insulating protection for the battery cell 20.

[0111] According to some embodiments of the present application, optionally, the edge of the second insulating film 252 facing the extension 2512 is connected to the edge of the extension 2512 .

[0112] In a possible embodiment, there is no overlap or gap between the second insulating film 252 and the extending portion 2512 of the first insulating film 251, i.e., the edge of the second insulating film 252 toward the extending portion 2512 can be connected to the edge of the extending portion 2512 of the first insulating film 251. The extending portion 2512 of the first insulating film 251 covers a part of the housing 211 of the battery cell 20, and the second insulating film 252 covers the remaining part of the housing 211, i.e., the extending portion 2512 of the first insulating film 251 and the second insulating film 252 can just cover the entire housing 211 of the battery cell 20.

[0113] The edge of the second insulating film 252 facing the extension 2512 is connected to the edge of the extension 2512, so that there are no overlapping portions of the insulating film or portions not covered by the insulating film in the housing 211 of the battery cell 20. In this way, the battery cell 20 is insulated and protected, and at the same time, a waterproof effect can be achieved to some extent. In addition, the space in the case of the battery cell 20 can be prevented from being occupied by overlapping portions, which helps improve battery density.

[0114] According to some embodiments of the present application, the present application provides a battery including the battery cell 20 of the above embodiment and a housing that houses the battery cell 20.

[0115] According to some embodiments of the present application, the present application further provides a power consuming device including a battery according to any one of the preceding claims for providing electrical energy.

[0116] The battery cell 20, battery, and power consuming device provided by the embodiments of the present application have been described above. Below, a method and apparatus for manufacturing the battery cell 20 provided by the embodiments of the present application will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12. For parts not described in detail, please refer to the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0117] 11 is a schematic flowchart of a method 1100 for manufacturing a battery cell 20 according to some embodiments of the present application. As shown in FIG. 11, the method 1100 may include the following steps 1101 to 1103. At 1101, a housing 211 having a first opening for accommodating the electrode assembly of the battery cell 20 is provided. At 1102, an end cap 212 is provided to cover the first opening. In 1103, a first insulating film 251 for insulating and protecting an end cap 212 is provided, the first insulating film 251 including a main body portion 2511 for covering the surface of the end cap 212 away from the housing 211, and a plurality of extension portions 2512 surrounding the main body portion 2511, each connected to one side of the main body portion 2511, extending away from the center of the main body portion 2511, and bent toward the housing 211 to cover at least a portion of the outer wall of the housing 211.

[0118] 12 is a schematic block diagram of an apparatus 1200 for manufacturing a battery cell 20 according to some embodiments of the present application. As shown in FIG. 12, the apparatus 1200 includes: a first providing module 1201 for providing a housing 211 having a first opening for accommodating an electrode assembly of the battery cell 20; a second providing module 1202 for providing an end cap 212 for covering the first opening; The first insulating film 251 for insulating and protecting the end cap 212 may include a third providing module 1203 for providing the first insulating film 251, the first insulating film 251 including a main body portion 2511 for covering the surface of the end cap 212 away from the housing 211, and a plurality of extension portions 2512 surrounding the main body portion 2511, each connected to one side of the main body portion 2511, extending away from the center of the main body portion 2511, and capable of being bent toward the housing 211 to cover at least a portion of the outer wall of the housing 211.

[0119] Although the present application has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications may be made thereto and equivalents may be substituted for elements therein without departing from the scope of the present application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, any of the technical features mentioned in each embodiment may be combined in any manner. The present application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but is intended to include all technical solutions within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. a housing having a first opening for receiving an electrode assembly of a battery cell; an end cap for covering the first opening; a first insulating film for insulating and protecting the end cap; Equipped with The first insulating film is a body portion for covering a surface of the end cap remote from the housing; A plurality of extensions; Including, the plurality of extension portions surround the main body portion, one extension portion is connected to each side of the main body portion, and the extension portions extend away from the center of the main body portion and are bent toward the housing to cover at least a portion of an outer wall of the housing; a main body portion having a protrusion that protrudes from the main body portion on a side of the main body portion away from the battery cell and is recessed into the main body portion on a side facing the battery cell so as to form a cavity structure, the cavity structure being used to accommodate a portion of the end cap that protrudes away from the interior of the battery cell.

2. The battery cell according to claim 1 , wherein the thickness of the extension portion is smaller than the thickness of the main body portion.

3. 3. The battery cell according to claim 1, wherein a reinforcing rib is provided at a connection point between the extension and the main body.

4. 4. The battery cell according to claim 1, wherein the first insulating film has a second opening for avoiding an electrode terminal and a pressure reducing mechanism of the battery cell.

5. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the edge of the portion of the battery cell protruding from the end cap has a chamfered structure, and the edge of the cavity structure has a transition structure that matches the chamfered structure.

6. 6. The battery cell according to claim 1, wherein the main body and the extension are made of the same material and have an integrally molded structure.

7. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that an adhesive material for adhering the first insulating film to the battery cell is provided on the side of the first insulating film facing the battery cell.

8. 8. The battery cell according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of the main body is 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, and the thickness of the extension is 0.1 mm.

9. 9. The battery cell according to claim 1, wherein the main body portion is rectangular, and the number of the plurality of extension portions is four.

10. The battery cell is The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a second insulating film that encases the housing and whose edge toward the extension portion does not extend beyond the edge where the housing and the end cap intersect, for insulating and protecting the housing of the battery cell.

11. A battery cell as described in Claim 10, characterized in that the edge of the second insulating film facing the extension portion is connected to the edge of the extension portion.

12. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 11; a housing for accommodating the battery cell; A battery comprising:

13. 13. A power consuming device comprising the battery of claim 12 for providing electrical energy.

14. providing a housing having a first opening for receiving an electrode assembly of a battery cell; providing an end cap to cover the first opening; providing a first insulating layer to insulate the end cap; Including, The first insulating film is a body portion for covering a surface of the end cap remote from the housing; A plurality of extensions; Including, the plurality of extension portions surround the main body portion, one extension portion is connected to each side of the main body portion, and the extension portions extend away from the center of the main body portion and are bent toward the housing to cover at least a portion of an outer wall of the housing; the main body portion has a protrusion that protrudes from the main body portion on a side of the main body portion away from the battery cell and is recessed into the main body portion on a side facing the battery cell so as to form a cavity structure, the cavity structure being used to accommodate a portion of the end cap that protrudes away from the interior of the battery cell.

15. a first providing module for providing a housing having a first opening for receiving an electrode assembly of a battery cell; a second providing module for providing an end cap to cover the first opening; a third providing module for providing a first insulating film for insulating and protecting the end cap; Equipped with The first insulating film is a body portion for covering a surface of the end cap remote from the housing; A plurality of extensions; Including, the plurality of extension portions surround the main body portion, one extension portion is connected to each side of the main body portion, and the extension portions extend away from the center of the main body portion and are bent toward the housing to cover at least a portion of an outer wall of the housing; the main body portion has a protrusion that protrudes from the main body portion on a side of the main body portion away from the battery cell and is recessed into the main body portion on a side facing the battery cell so as to form a cavity structure, the cavity structure being used to accommodate a portion of the end cap that protrudes away from the interior of the battery cell.

Images