Battery, battery module, and vehicle

Abstract

A battery, a battery module, and a vehicle are provided. The battery includes a housing, a battery cell, and two connection tabs. At least a portion of the housing is electrically conductive. The battery cell is housed within the housing, and the two connection tabs are electrically connected to the two electrodes of the battery cell, respectively.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202311744091.5, filed with the National Intellectual Property Administration of China on December 18, 2023, with the title of the invention "Battery, Battery Module, and Vehicle," the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present application relates to the field of batteries, and in particular to batteries, battery modules including batteries, and vehicles including battery modules. Background Technology

[0003] Batteries are typically classified into pouch batteries and hard pack batteries. In pouch batteries, aluminum-plastic film is commonly used to house battery cells. However, the structural strength of aluminum-plastic film is relatively weak, and increasing the thickness of the film to improve strength results in increased battery costs.

[0004] In the case of hardpack batteries, a metal housing is typically used to accommodate the battery cells, and an electrical connection between the battery cells and the external environment is achieved by using a cover plate equipped with conductive posts. However, in the actual processing, it is necessary to ensure relatively high assembly precision between the cover plate and the metal housing to guarantee the battery's sealing, which results in increased costs. The problem to be solved

[0005] Taking into account the disadvantages of the aforementioned prior art, the object of the present application is to provide a battery having improved sealing performance, a battery module including the battery, and a vehicle including the battery module. Specifically, the following technical solutions are included. means of solving the problem

[0006] According to a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery, wherein the battery comprises a housing—the housing having an electrically conductive region—; a battery cell accommodated within the housing; and two connection tabs electrically connected to two electrodes of the battery cell, respectively. One of the connection tabs is electrically connected to the electrically conductive region of the housing, and the other connection tab extends out of the housing and is spaced apart from the electrically conductive region of the housing. The electrically conductive region of the housing and the connection tab extending out of the housing are configured to be electrically connected to an external circuit, respectively.

[0007] In the battery of the present application, one connection tab electrically connected to the electrode of the battery cell is electrically connected to an electrically conductive region of the housing, and another connection tab electrically connected to the electrode of the battery cell extends out of the housing. This enables the present application to be electrically connected to an external circuit by using the connection tab extending out of the housing and the electrically conductive region of the housing. In this way, when the current delivery function of the battery of the present application is implemented, the impact of the extension of the connection tab on the sealing performance is reduced, thereby improving the sealing performance of the battery of the present application and reducing costs.

[0008] In one embodiment, the housing comprises two separable parts, and an electrically conductive region of the housing is positioned on one of the parts of the housing.

[0009] In one embodiment, at least one of the two parts of the housing includes a bottom plate and a side plate. An electrically conductive area of ​​the housing is positioned on at least the side plate and is electrically connected to one of the connection tabs.

[0010] In one embodiment, a connecting tab extending out of the housing passes through the gap between two parts of the housing.

[0011] In one embodiment, the battery further includes an insulating member. The insulating member is located at least partially in the gap and is located within the space formed by the gap and a connecting tab extending out of the housing.

[0012] In one embodiment, the insulating member fills the space formed by the connection tab and the gap, and the insulating member is further configured to seal the gap.

[0013] In one embodiment, the battery further includes a sealing member. One end of the sealing member surrounds and is fastened to the end portion of a connecting tab that extends out of the housing, and the other end extends toward the housing and contacts the outer surface of the housing.

[0014] In one embodiment, two electrodes of the battery cell are spaced apart on the same side of the battery cell.

[0015] In one embodiment, the battery further includes a positioning plate. The positioning plate is housed within a housing, and the positioning plate is provided with two through holes spaced apart from each other. Each of the two connecting tabs passes through one of the through holes and is electrically connected to one of the electrodes. The positioning plate is configured to limit the relative position between the two connecting tabs.

[0016] In one embodiment, two opposite ends of the insulating member extend into the housing and extend out of the housing, respectively.

[0017] In one embodiment, the housing is provided with a first protrusion and a second protrusion. A gap is disposed within the first protrusion.

[0018] In one embodiment, the housing is provided with a recess. Both the first protrusion and the second protrusion are disposed within the recess.

[0019] In one embodiment, the battery cell comprises a plurality of cores, each core having a tab provided thereon. The plurality of cores includes a plurality of positive cores and a plurality of negative cores.

[0020] In one embodiment, the battery further includes a plurality of fasteners. The fasteners are positioned on the outer periphery of the housing to fasten the battery.

[0021] According to a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery module, the battery module comprising a battery tray and a battery according to a first aspect. The battery is accommodated within the battery tray.

[0022] According to a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a vehicle, and the vehicle includes a battery module according to a second aspect.

[0023] It can be understood that both the battery module provided in the second embodiment of the present application and the vehicle provided in the third embodiment of the present application achieve the effects of improved sealing performance and reduced cost by using the battery provided in the first embodiment of the present application. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0024] FIG. 1 is a schematic exploded view of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a partial cross-section of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 4 is a partial enlarged schematic diagram of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 5 is another schematic diagram of a partial structure of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 6 is another schematic exploded view of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 8 is another schematic exploded view of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 9 is another schematic diagram of the structure of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery cell (20) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 11 is another schematic diagram of the structure of a battery cell (20) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery module (1000) according to one embodiment of the present application. Explanation of reference symbols 1000: Battery module; 100: Battery; 200: Battery tray; 10: Housing; 20: Battery cell; 21: Core; 22: Electrode; 221: Positive electrode; 222: Negative electrode; 30: Connection tab; 31: First connection tab; 32: Second connection tab; 11: Housing body; 12: Cover; 13: Gap; 10a: Bottom plate; 10b: Side plate; 111: First bottom plate; 112: First side plate; 121: Second bottom plate; 122: Second side plate; 113: First extension structure; 123: Second extension structure; 40: Insulating member; 50: Sealing member; 60: Positioning plate; 61: Through hole; 14: Protrusion; 141: First protrusion; 142: Second protrusion; 70: Electrolyte injection hole; 80: Explosion-proof valve; 90: Fastener; 211: Tap; 21a: Anode core; 21b: Cathode core; 211a: Anode tap; 211b: Cathode tap; 15: Recess; 23: Insulating film; 114: First part; 124: Second part; 001: First direction; 002: Second direction; 003: Third direction. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0025] For ease of understanding of the present application, a more comprehensive description of the application is provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Preferred embodiments of the present application are provided in the accompanying drawings. However, the present application may be embodied in a plurality of different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. On the contrary, the purpose of providing these embodiments is to enable a more thorough and comprehensive understanding of the disclosure of the present application.

[0026] The following descriptions of embodiments are presented with reference to the accompanying drawings to describe specific embodiments that may be used to implement the present application. In this specification, numbering such as “first” or “second” of components is used solely to distinguish the described objects and has no order or technical meaning. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the terms “connect” and “joint” in this application include both direct and indirect connections (joints). Directional terms mentioned in this application, e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “internal,” “external,” and “side,” are merely directions based on the accompanying drawings. Accordingly, directional terms are used to describe and understand the present application more favorably and clearly, rather than indicating or implying that a specific device or element must have a specific orientation or be configured and operated in a specific orientation. Accordingly, this shall not be understood as a limitation to the present application.

[0027] It should be noted that in the description of this application, unless otherwise specified and limited, the terms “mount,” “communicate,” and “connect” should be understood in a broad sense and may, for example, be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; may be a mechanical connection; may be a direct connection or an indirect connection using an intermediate medium; or a connection between the interiors of two elements. A person skilled in the art may understand the specific meanings of the terms foregoing in this application based on specific circumstances. It should be noted that in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application, terms such as “first” and “second” are used to distinguish different objects and are not used to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms “include,” “may include,” “comprise,” or “may comprise” as used in this application indicate the presence of the disclosed corresponding functions, operations, elements, etc., and do not limit one or more other functions, operations, elements, etc. Additionally, the terms “include” or “comprise” indicate the presence of corresponding features, numbers, steps, actions, elements, components, or combinations thereof disclosed herein, and are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusions, without excluding the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0028] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which this application pertains. The terms used herein are intended only to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this application.

[0029] The vehicle provided in the present application includes a vehicle body and a battery module (1000) described in FIG. 12. The battery module (1000) is housed within the vehicle body to protect the battery module. The battery module (1000) is configured to provide electrical energy to the vehicle and to drive the vehicle. The battery module (1000) includes a battery (100) and a battery tray (200). A plurality of batteries connected in parallel and / or series are housed within the battery tray to protect the batteries. The plurality of batteries cooperate with each other to convert chemical energy stored within the batteries into electrical energy and to transmit the electrical energy to the vehicle, thereby implementing the current transmission function of the batteries.

[0030] Refer to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2. FIG. 1 is a schematic exploded view of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. For ease of explanation, some structures within the battery (100) are omitted in FIG. 2.

[0031] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery (100) of the present application comprises a housing (10) and a battery cell (20). The battery cell (20) is housed within the housing (10), and the housing (10) is configured to prevent external impurities from entering the housing (10), thereby protecting the battery cell (20). Additionally, the housing (10) also provides a housing space for housing an electrolyte (not shown in the drawings), so that an external electrolyte is also injected into the housing (10) and works in cooperation with the battery cell (20) to achieve the charging and discharging performance of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0032] The battery cell (20) comprises a core (21) and two electrodes (22). The two electrodes (22) are a positive electrode (221) and a negative electrode (222), respectively. The positive electrode (221) and the negative electrode (222) are electrically connected to a positive core (not shown in the drawing) and a negative core (not shown in the drawing) within the core (21), respectively. It can be understood that chemical energy stored in the electrolyte can generate electrical energy under the action of the core (21). The generated electrical energy can be output externally through the positive electrode (221) and the negative electrode (222). In this way, the current output function of the battery (100) of the present application is realized.

[0033] Additionally, an external current can also be input into the core (21) through the positive electrode (221) and the negative electrode (222), and in cooperation with the electrolyte, convert electrical energy into chemical energy and store the chemical energy within the electrolyte, thereby implementing the charging function of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0034] For ease of explanation, in FIG. 1 and subsequent drawings, the planar directions of the housing (10) are each set as a first direction (001) and a second direction (002) perpendicular to each other, and a third direction (003) perpendicular to the first direction (001) and the second direction (002) is set.

[0035] Refer to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a partial cross-section of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. Refer also to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

[0036] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the battery (100) of the present application further comprises two connection tabs (30), which are a first connection tab (31) and a second connection tab (32), respectively. One end of the first connection tab (31) is electrically connected to a positive electrode (221), and the other end passes through the housing (10) in a second direction (002) and extends partially out of the housing (10).

[0037] At least a portion of the housing (10) is electrically conductive. One end of the second connection tab (32) is electrically connected to the negative electrode (222), and the other end is electrically connected to the electrically conductive region. Additionally, the first connection tab (31) and the electrically conductive region are spaced apart from each other to prevent the first connection tab (31) from being electrically connected to the second connection tab (32) through the electrically conductive region, thereby ensuring safe use of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0038] The external circuit may be separately electrically connected to a first connection tab (31) extending out of the housing (10) and to an electrically conductive area of ​​the housing (10). Specifically, the positive electrode of the external circuit may be electrically connected to the positive electrode (221) of the battery cell (20) through the first connection tab (31), and the negative electrode of the external circuit may be electrically connected to a second connection tab (32) through an electrically conductive area of ​​the housing (10), and further electrically connected to the negative electrode (222) through the second connection tab (32). In this way, the charging and discharging functions of the battery (100) of the present application are implemented.

[0039] In some other embodiments, it may be understood that the first connection tab (31) may alternatively be electrically connected to the negative electrode (222) of the battery cell (20). Correspondingly, the second connection tab (32) should be electrically connected to the positive electrode (221) of the battery cell (20). Correspondingly, the positive electrode of the external circuit is electrically connected to the second connection tab (32), and the negative electrode of the external circuit is electrically connected to the first connection tab (31).

[0040] Accordingly, compared to the prior art in which a hard pack battery uses a cover plate having conductive posts to implement an electrical connection between a battery cell within a housing and an external circuit, the battery (100) of the present application comprises a housing (10) in which at least a partial area is electrically conductive, a second connection tab (32) is electrically connected between an electrically conductive area of ​​the housing (10) and one electrode (22), and a first connection tab (31) extending out of the housing (10) is electrically connected to another electrode (22) and spaced apart from the electrically conductive area. In this way, when the charging and discharging functions of the battery (100) of the present application are ensured, the quantity of connection tabs (30) extending out of the housing (10) is reduced, thereby reducing the impact of the extension of the connection tabs (30) on the sealing performance and improving the sealing performance of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0041] Specifically, in one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the housing (10) comprises two detachably connected parts, and an electrically conductive region of the housing (10) is positioned on one of the two parts of the housing (10). The two parts of the housing (10) are, respectively, the housing body (11) and the cover (12). In a third direction (003), the housing body (11) and the cover (12) are in contact with each other to form a receiving space (not shown in the drawings) for receiving a battery cell (20). An electrically conductive region of the housing (10) is provided on the housing body (11) and / or the cover (12).

[0042] One end of the second connection tab (32) that moves away from the battery cell (20) contacts the connection location between the housing body (11) and the cover (12). The first connection tab (31) passes through the gap (13) between the housing body (11) and the cover (12). When the housing body (11) is electrically conductive, the first connection tab (31) is spaced apart from the housing body (11). When the cover (12) is electrically conductive, the first connection tab (31) is spaced apart from the cover (12). This ensures that the first connection tab (31) is spaced apart from the electrically conductive area of ​​the housing (10), thereby preventing a short circuit caused when the first connection tab (31) is electrically connected to the second connection tab (32).

[0043] It can be understood that the end portion of the second connecting tab (32) is positioned at the connection location between the housing body (11) and the cover (12), so that when the housing body (11) is fixedly connected to the cover (12), the second connecting tab (32) is also fixedly connected between the housing body (11) and the cover (12). In this way, the position of the second connecting tab (32) is limited when an electrical connection between the second connecting tab (32) and the electrically conductive area of ​​the housing (10) is ensured. In this way, phenomena such as short circuits caused by movement of the position of the second connecting tab (32) during transport are avoided, thereby improving the safety performance of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0044] Refer to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. Refer also to FIG. 1.

[0045] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 4, at least one of the two parts of the housing (10) includes a bottom plate (10a) and a side plate (10b). The side plate (10b) surrounds the edge of the bottom plate (10a) to form a receiving space (not shown in the drawings) for accommodating a battery cell (20). The end portion of the second connecting tab (32) away from the battery cell (20) contacts the surface of the side plate (10b) facing the battery cell (20) and is electrically connected.

[0046] Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the housing body (11) includes a first bottom plate (111) and a first side plate (112), and the first side plate (112) surrounds the edge of the first bottom plate (111). The housing body (11) is electrically conductive. In FIG. 4, the bottom plate (10a) is the first bottom plate (111), and the side plate (10b) is the first side plate (112). Correspondingly, the end portion of the second connection tab (32) away from the battery cell (20) contacts and is electrically connected to the surface of the first side plate (112) facing the battery cell (20), so that an external circuit is electrically connected to the battery cell (20) through the housing body (11) and the first connection tab (31).

[0047] Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the cover (12) includes a second bottom plate (121) and a second side plate (122), and the second side plate (122) surrounds the edge of the second bottom plate (121). The cover (12) is electrically conductive. In FIG. 4, the bottom plate (10a) is the second bottom plate (121), and the side plate (10b) is the second side plate (122). Correspondingly, the end portion of the second connection tab (32) away from the battery cell (20) contacts and is electrically connected to the surface of the second side plate (122) facing the battery cell (20), so that an external circuit is electrically connected to the battery cell (20) through the cover (12) and the first connection tab (31).

[0048] It can be understood that the end portion of the second connecting tab (32) contacts the surface of the side plate (10b) near the battery cell (20), ensuring that the second connecting tab (32) is entirely accommodated within the housing (10), thereby further reducing the effect of the second connecting tab (32) on the connection between the housing body (11) and the cover (12). This further improves the sealing performance of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0049] In another embodiment, the housing body (11) includes a first bottom plate (111) and a first side plate (112). The corresponding cover (12) may be composed solely of a sheet-shaped structure. Correspondingly, in another embodiment, the cover (12) includes a second bottom plate (121) and a second side plate (122), and the corresponding housing body (11) is composed solely of a sheet-shaped structure.

[0050] In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the positive electrode (221) and the negative electrode (222) of the battery cell (20) are located on the same side of the core (21) in the second direction (002). Correspondingly, the first connection tab (31) and the second connection tab (32) are also located on the same side of the core (21).

[0051] In some other embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the first connecting tab (31) and the second connecting tab (32) may alternatively be positioned on different sides of the core (21) to increase the distance between the first connecting tab (31) and the second connecting tab (32) and further avoid short circuits.

[0052] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the battery (100) of the present application further comprises an insulating member (40). The insulating member (40) is partially located within the gap (13), is located within the space formed by the first connecting tab (31) and the gap (13), and abuts against the surface of the first connecting tab (31).

[0053] At least a portion of the housing (10) is electrically conductive. It can be understood that the provision of an insulating member (40) can achieve separation between the first connecting tab (31) and the housing (10), thereby preventing the first connecting tab (31) from coming into contact with the electrically conductive portion of the housing (10), which ensures safe use of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0054] Additionally, the provision of an insulating member (40) can also reduce the space between the first connecting tab (31) and the gap (13), thereby achieving shielding of the gap (13) and reducing the possibility of external impurities entering the housing (10) through the gap (13). Furthermore, the sealing performance of the battery (100) of the present application is ensured.

[0055] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the insulating member (40) fills the space formed by the first connecting tab (31) and the gap (13) to block external impurities from entering the housing (10) through the gap (13) and to block the electrolyte inside the housing (10) from flowing out of the housing (10) through the gap (13). In this way, the insulating member (40) can work in cooperation with the first connecting tab (31) to achieve sealing of the gap (13). Additionally, the sealing performance of the battery (100) of the present application is improved.

[0056] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, in a second direction (002), two opposite ends of the insulating member (40) may extend further into the housing (10) and further out of the housing (10), respectively, to further improve the insulating effect on the first connecting tab (31) of the insulating member (40) and further reduce the possibility that the first connecting tab (31) will be electrically connected to the second connecting tab (32). In this way, the safety performance of the battery (100) of the present application is further improved.

[0057] Additionally, when the insulating member (40) fills the space formed by the first connecting tab (31) and the gap (13), the extension of the two opposite ends of the insulating member (40) can further enhance the sealing effect on the gap (13) of the insulating member (40). In this way, the sealing performance of the battery (100) of the present application is further enhanced.

[0058] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the battery (100) of the present application further comprises a sealing member (50). The sealing member (50) is located outside the housing (10). Additionally, the sealing member (50) surrounds and is fastened to the end portion of a first connecting tab (31) that extends out of the housing (10), extends toward the housing (10), and contacts the outer surface of the housing (10).

[0059] It can be understood that if the insulating member (40) does not completely fill the space formed by the first connecting tab (31) and the gap (13), the provision of the sealing member (50) further blocks the possibility of external impurities entering the housing (10) and also blocks the internal electrolyte from leaking out of the housing (10) through the space between the insulating member (40) and the gap (13). In this way, the sealing performance of the battery (100) of the present application is improved.

[0060] When the insulating member (40) completely fills the space formed by the first connecting tab (31) and the gap (13), the provision of the sealing member (50) further enhances the sealing effect on the gap (13) of the present application, thereby further enhancing the sealing performance of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0061] In one embodiment, the insulating member (40) is made of a copolymer such as polypropylene.

[0062] In one embodiment, the sealing member (50) is manufactured using a heat-activated sealing material, such as polypropylene, for example. In some other embodiments, it may be understood that the sealing member (50) may alternatively be made of an adhesive material in the form of a liquid or gel and manufactured through curing. This is not specifically limited in this application.

[0063] Refer to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is another schematic exploded view of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0064] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the positive electrode (221) and the negative electrode (222) of the battery cell (20) are spaced apart on the same side of the battery cell (20). The battery (100) of the present application includes a positioning plate (60). The positioning plate (60) is housed within a housing (10), and the positioning plate (60) is provided with two through holes (61) spaced apart from each other. Each of the through holes (61) is positioned corresponding to the positive electrode (221) and the negative electrode (222), respectively.

[0065] Specifically, one end of the first connecting tab (31) passes through a corresponding through hole (61) and is electrically connected to the positive electrode (221), and the other end extends out of the housing (10) to be electrically connected to an external circuit. One end of the second connecting tab (32) passes through another through hole (61) and is electrically connected to the negative electrode (222), and the other end is electrically connected to an electrically conductive area of ​​the housing (10).

[0066] During transport of the battery (100), the first connecting tab (31) and the second connecting tab (32) may move in a first direction (001) due to vibration during transport. It can be understood that the provision of a positioning plate (60) may limit the position of the first connecting tab (31) relative to the second connecting tab (32), thereby preventing a short circuit between the two connecting tabs (30) caused by the first connecting tab (31) and the second connecting tab (32) moving in the first direction (001). This further ensures the safe use of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0067] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the housing body (11) further includes a first extension structure (113). The first extension structure (113) is positioned on the end portion of the first side plate (112) away from the first bottom plate (111) and extends separately outward in a direction away from the battery cell (20). Correspondingly, the cover (12) further includes a second extension structure (123). The second extension structure (123) is positioned on the end portion of the second side plate (122) away from the second bottom plate (121) and extends separately outward in a direction away from the battery cell (20).

[0068] The first extension structure (113) and the second extension structure (123) can cooperate with each other and be fixedly connected to each other, thereby realizing a fixed connection between the housing body (11) and the cover (12). It can be understood that providing the first extension structure (113) and the second extension structure (123) can increase the contact area between the housing body (11) and the cover (12) while maintaining the overall thickness of the housing body (11) and the cover (12) without change, thereby facilitating the connection between the housing body (11) and the cover (12).

[0069] Specifically, in this embodiment, the connection method between the housing body (11) and the cover (12) may be welding. In the first direction (001) and the second direction (002), the first extension structure (113) and the second extension structure (123) are welded together. The welded portion includes the end portion of the second connection tab (32) that is separated from the battery cell (20) and does not include the gap (13) of the housing (10) through which the end portion of the first connection tab (31) that is separated from the battery cell (20) passes.

[0070] Accordingly, compared to conventional technology in which the precision requirements for the assembly between the cover plate and the housing in a hard pack battery are relatively high, the method of connecting the housing body (11) and the cover (12) provided in the battery (100) of the present application can reduce the precision requirements, thereby lowering the manufacturing cost of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0071] It may be understood that in some other embodiments, the method of connection between the housing body (11) and the cover (12) in the battery (100) of the present application may be different. This is not specifically limited in the present application.

[0072] Refer to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application. Refer also to FIG. 3.

[0073] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 7, the housing (10) is provided with two protrusions (14), which are a first protrusion (141) and a second protrusion (142), respectively. A gap (13) is provided in the first protrusion (141). The end portion of the first connection tab (31) away from the battery cell (20) extends out of the first protrusion (141) through the gap (13). A sealing member (50) surrounds the periphery of the first connection tab (31) and is fastened thereto, extends toward the outer surface of the housing (10) in a second direction (002), and is positioned around the periphery of the first protrusion (141).

[0074] In the present application, the method of connection between the cover (12) and the housing body (11) is welding. In the actual manufacturing process, when the first extension structure (113) and the second extension structure (123) are welded together, the unwelded portion may be trimmed to reduce the overall size of the battery (100) of the present application. In the trimming process, the portion area where the second connection tab (32) is inserted and the area where the gap (13) is located are avoided, thereby forming the first protrusion (141) and the second protrusion (142) separately.

[0075] Regarding the first protrusion (141), the first protrusion (141) includes a first part (114) located on the housing body (11) and a second part (124) located on the cover (12). The first part (114) and the second part (124) are welded together, and a gap (13) is formed between the first part (114) and the second part (124).

[0076] It can be understood that a sealing member (50) is positioned around the first protrusion (141) and the sealing member (50) is in contact with the outer surface of the housing (10) so as to prevent the electrolyte inside the housing (10) from leaking out from the side wall of the first protrusion (141) in the first direction (001) through the gap (13). This further enhances the sealing effect of the sealing member (50) on the gap (13) and further enhances the sealing performance of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0077] Regarding the second protrusion (142), the provision of the second protrusion (142) ensures a connection area between the second connection tab (32), the housing body (11), and the cover (12), thereby ensuring the welding strength of the second connection tab (32). This improves the connection stability of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0078] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the housing (10) is provided with a recess (15) that is more concave. The recess (15) extends toward the battery cell (20) in a second direction (002), and both the first protrusion (141) and the second protrusion (142) are disposed within the recess (15). It can be understood that providing the recess (15) reduces the size occupied by the first protrusion (141) and the second protrusion (142) in the second direction (002), thereby increasing the space occupancy of the battery cell (20) and increasing the capacity of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0079] In one embodiment, the housing body (11) is manufactured using an electrically conductive metal material. For example, the housing body (11) is manufactured using an iron alloy, an aluminum alloy, or other material. Compared to the prior art in which the housing of a pouch battery is manufactured using an aluminum plastic film structure, it can be understood that in the present application, the housing body (11) of the battery (100) is manufactured using a metal material, thereby improving the strength of the housing (10) and improving the structural strength of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0080] In one embodiment, the thickness of the housing body (11) is between 20 μm and 500 μm. It can be understood that by setting the thickness of the housing body (11) to between 20 μm and 500 μm, the strength of the housing body (11) can be ensured, and the housing body (11) can be prevented from becoming excessively thick and occupying an excessive space of the battery cell (20), thereby affecting the capacity of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0081] In one embodiment, the cover (12) is manufactured using an electrically conductive metal material. For example, the cover (12) is manufactured using an iron alloy, an aluminum alloy, or other material. Compared to the prior art in which the housing of a pouch battery is manufactured using an aluminum plastic film structure, it can be understood that in the present application, the cover (12) of the battery (100) is manufactured using a metal material, thereby improving the strength of the housing (10) and improving the structural strength of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0082] In one embodiment, the thickness of the cover (12) is between 20 μm and 500 μm. It can be understood that by setting the thickness of the cover (12) to between 20 μm and 500 μm, the strength of the cover (12) can be ensured, and the cover (12) can be prevented from becoming excessively thick and occupying an excessive space of the battery cell (20), thereby affecting the capacity of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0083] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the housing body (11) is further provided with an electrolyte injection hole (70). The electrolyte injection hole (70) communicates with the interior of the housing (10), allowing the electrolyte to be injected into the housing (10) through the electrolyte injection hole (70), thereby improving the efficiency of electrolyte injection.

[0084] Accordingly, compared to the electrolyte injection method used in pouch batteries, in the battery (100) of the present application, an electrolyte injection hole (70) is provided for injecting the electrolyte, so that the loss of the electrolyte during injection can be reduced, thereby enabling control of the flow of the electrolyte inside the housing (10).

[0085] Refer to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is another schematic exploded view of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0086] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the battery (100) of the present application further includes an explosion-proof valve (80). The explosion-proof valve (80) is positioned on the cover (12), so that when the interior of the battery (100) is at high temperature and high pressure, the explosion-proof valve (80) opens to release pressure from the gas inside the housing (10), thereby ensuring safe use of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0087] Specifically, in this embodiment, the explosion-proof valve (80) can be formed by thinning a portion of the cover (12) so that when high temperature and high pressure gas is generated inside the housing (10), the high temperature and high pressure gas can directly rupture the portion to achieve pressure release. In this way, safe use of the battery (100) of the present application is ensured.

[0088] In one embodiment, the insulating member (40) and the sealing member (50) may also function as a structure of an explosion-proof valve (80). When high temperature and high pressure gases are generated inside the housing (10), the high temperature environment directly melts the insulating member (40) and the sealing member (50), or the high pressure environment directly damages the sealing structure formed by the insulating member (40) and the sealing member (50), thereby achieving pressure release. This ensures the safe use of the battery (100) of the present application.

[0089] Refer to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is another schematic diagram of the structure of a battery (100) according to one embodiment of the present application.

[0090] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the battery (100) of the present application further includes a fastener (90). A plurality of fasteners (90) are provided and arranged on the outer circumference of the housing (10) so that the battery (100) is fastened within the battery tray.

[0091] Refer to FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery cell (20) according to one embodiment of the present application. Refer also to FIG. 1.

[0092] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 10, the battery cell (20) of the present application comprises a plurality of cores (21) each having a tab (211) provided on each core. The plurality of cores (21) comprises a plurality of positive cores (21a) and a plurality of negative cores (21b). Each positive core (21a) corresponds to a positive tab (211a), and each negative core (21b) corresponds to a negative tab (211b). The plurality of positive tabs (211a) are assembled and welded together to form a positive electrode (221), and the plurality of negative tabs (211b) are assembled and welded together to form a negative electrode (222). The positive cores (21a) and the negative cores (21b) are alternately stacked and arranged in a third direction (003).

[0093] The charging and discharging performance of the battery (100) is primarily derived from the interconversion between electrical energy and chemical energy, and the interconversion between electrical energy and chemical energy is achieved primarily by using positive cores (21a), negative cores (21b), and an electrolyte (not shown in the drawing). When the battery (100) is electrically connected to an external circuit, the positive cores (21a) undergo an oxidation reaction with the electrolyte to gain electrons, and the negative cores (21b) undergo a reduction reaction with the electrolyte to lose electrons, thereby creating a potential difference between the positive cores (21a) and the negative cores (21b). In this way, the conversion between chemical energy and electrical energy is realized.

[0094] When an external circuit inputs current to the positive cores (21a) and negative cores (21b), due to the potential difference between the positive cores (21a) and the negative cores (21b), the positive cores (21a) and the negative cores (21b) chemically react with the electrolyte, thereby converting electrical energy into chemical energy and storing the chemical energy within the electrolyte.

[0095] In order to increase the capacity of the battery (100), it is necessary to increase the contact area between the positive cores (21a), negative cores (21b), and the electrolyte. A plurality of positive cores (21a) and a plurality of negative cores (21b) are provided, and the plurality of positive cores (21a) and a plurality of negative cores (21b) are arranged alternately so that the battery (100) of the present application can have a larger capacity.

[0096] Additionally, electrical energy generated by the cooperation of positive cores (21a) and negative cores (21b) can be output to an external circuit through positive tabs (211a) and negative tabs (211b). In this way, the discharge function of the battery (100) of the present application can be implemented. Additionally, current input from the external circuit can also be transferred to the battery cell (20) through positive tabs (211a) and negative tabs (211b). In this way, the charging function of the battery (100) of the present application can be implemented.

[0097] In this embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 10, a plurality of positive cores (21a) and a plurality of negative cores (21b) are arranged alternately to form a battery cell (20), and it can be understood that the battery (100) of the present application is made into a blade battery.

[0098] In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, a plurality of positive cores (21a) can be connected as a whole and a plurality of negative cores (21b) can also be connected as a whole, so that the positive cores (21a) and negative cores (21b) are attached to each other and then wound to form a battery cell (20), thereby making the battery (100) of the present application into a wound battery.

[0099] In this embodiment, it may be understood that the positive core (21a) and negative core (21b) provided in the battery (100) of the present application are made of different materials, and that the charging and discharging functions of the battery (100) of the present application can be implemented by using the chemical reaction between the materials of the positive cores (21a) and negative cores (21b) and the electrolyte. For example, the battery (100) of the present application is a lithium-ion battery. In another embodiment, the positive core (21a) and negative core (21b) provided in the battery (100) of the present application may alternatively be made of the same material. For example, the battery (100) of the present application may be a sodium-ion battery.

[0100] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11, the battery cell (20) further comprises a plurality of insulating films (23). The insulating films (23) are disposed between the positive cores (21a) and the negative cores (21b) and are attached to the positive cores (21a) and the negative cores (21b), respectively. This achieves mutual insulation between the positive cores (21a) and the negative cores (21b) and prevents problems such as short circuits and leakage currents inside the battery cell (20) caused by electrical connections between the positive cores (21a) and the negative cores (21b). In this way, safe use of the battery (100) of the present application is ensured.

[0101] It should be understood that terms such as "first" and "second" are used solely for descriptive purposes and should not be understood as indicating, implying, or suggesting relative importance or the quantity of the indicated technical features. Accordingly, the features defined as "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "plural" means two or more unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0102] In the description of this specification, the description of reference terms such as “embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “exemplary embodiment,” “example,” “specific example,” or “some examples” means that specific features, structures, materials, or properties described with reference to the embodiments or examples are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, exemplary expressions of the foregoing terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Additionally, the specific features, structures, materials, or properties described may be combined in an appropriate manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0103] It should be understood that the application of this application is not limited to the examples described above. A person skilled in the art may make improvements or modifications in accordance with the description above, and all improvements and modifications shall fall within the scope of protection of the claims attached to this application. A person skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the procedures for implementing the embodiments described above and equivalent modifications made in accordance with the claims of the present invention shall fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

Claim 1 A battery (100) comprising: a housing (10) - said housing (10) has an electrically conductive region -; a battery cell (20) housed within said housing (10); and two connection tabs (30) each electrically connected to two electrodes (22) of said battery cell (20), wherein one of the connection tabs (30) is electrically connected to said electrically conductive region of said housing (10), and the other connection tab (30) extends out of said housing (10) and is spaced apart from said electrically conductive region of said housing (10), and said connection tab (30) extending out of said housing (10) is configured to be electrically connected to said external circuit, said electrically conductive region of said housing (10) and said connection tab (30) extending out of said housing (10). Claim 2 In claim 1, the housing (10) comprises two separable parts, and the electrically conductive region of the housing (10) is disposed on one of the parts of the housing (10), the battery (100). Claim 3 In paragraph 2, at least one of the two parts of the housing (10) comprises a bottom plate (10a) and a side plate (10b), and the electrically conductive region of the housing (10) is disposed on at least the side plate (10b) and electrically connected to one of the connection tabs (30), a battery (100). Claim 4 In paragraph 2, the connecting tab (30) extending out of the housing (10) passes through the gap (13) between the two parts of the housing (10), the battery (100). Claim 5 In paragraph 4, the battery (100) further comprises an insulating member (40), wherein the insulating member (40) is located at least partially in the gap (13) and is located within the space formed by the connecting tab (30) extending out of the housing (10) and the gap (13). Claim 6 In claim 5, the insulating member (40) fills the space formed by the connecting tab (30) and the gap (13), and the insulating member (40) is further configured to seal the gap (13), the battery (100). Claim 7 In any one of paragraphs 1 through 6, A battery (100) further comprising a sealing member (50), wherein one end of the sealing member (50) surrounds and is fastened to the end portion of the connecting tab (30) extending out of the housing (10), and the other end extends toward the housing (10) and contacts the outer surface of the housing (10). Claim 8 A battery (100), wherein, in any one of claims 1 to 6, the two electrodes (22) of the battery cell (20) are spaced apart on the same side of the battery cell (20). Claim 9 A battery (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a positioning plate (60), wherein the positioning plate (60) is received within the housing (10), and the positioning plate (60) is provided with two through holes (61) spaced apart from each other, and each of the two connecting tabs (30) passes through one of the through holes (61) and is electrically connected to one of the electrodes (22). Claim 10 In any one of claims 5 to 9, the two opposite ends of the insulating member (40) each extend into the housing (10) and extend out of the housing (10), the battery (100). Claim 11 A battery (100) according to any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the housing (10) is provided with a first protrusion (141) and a second protrusion (142), and the gap (13) is disposed within the first protrusion (141). Claim 12 In claim 11, the housing (10) is provided with a recess (15), and both the first protrusion (141) and the second protrusion (142) are disposed within the recess (15), the battery (100). Claim 13 A battery (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the battery cell (20) comprises a plurality of cores (21) each having a tap (211) provided on each core, and the plurality of cores (21) comprises a plurality of positive cores (21a) and a plurality of negative cores (21b). Claim 14 A battery (100) comprising, in any one of claims 1 to 13, a plurality of fasteners (90), wherein the fasteners (90) are disposed on the outer circumference of the housing (10) to fasten the battery (100). Claim 15 A battery module (1000) comprising a battery tray (200) and a battery (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the battery (100) is accommodated within the battery tray (200). Claim 16 A vehicle comprising a battery module (1000) according to claim 15.

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