Communication pipe, thermal management assembly, battery, and electric device

Abstract

A communication pipe (31), a thermal management assembly (30), a battery (100), and an electric device, relating to the technical field of batteries. The communication pipe (31) comprises a second pipe (312) and two first pipes (311), and the two first pipes (311) are respectively connected to two thermal management components (32); the second pipe (312) connects the two first pipes (311), the second pipe (312) comprises a first flexible segment (3121), and the first flexible segment (3121) is located between the two first pipes (311), such that when the two thermal management components (32) are communicated by means of the communication pipe (31), the accuracy of the requirements for a relative position of the thermal management components (32) and the communication pipe (31) is low, and the sealed connection between the thermal management components (32) and the communication pipe (31) can also be well achieved; and the problem of liquid leakage caused by the misalignment of the two thermal management components (32) can be ameliorated by utilizing the flexibility of the first flexible segment (3121). The arrangement of the first flexible segment (3121) can also ameliorate the problem of loose connection between the thermal management components (32) and the communication pipe (31) caused by expansion and contraction of the battery (100) cell and the thermal management components (32), thereby improving the reliability of the battery (100) comprising the communication pipe (31).

Description

Conductive tubes, thermal management components, batteries and electrical equipment

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202321706418.5, filed on June 30, 2023, entitled “Conduction tube, thermal management component, battery and electrical equipment,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to a conducting tube, a thermal management component, a battery, and an electrical device. Background Art

[0004] Batteries are widely used in portable electronic devices, electric vehicles, power tools, drones, energy storage devices, and other fields. As these applications expand, battery reliability has become a key concern for users.

[0005] Summary of the Invention

[0006] The embodiments of the present application provide a conducting tube, a thermal management component, a battery, and an electrical device to improve the reliability of the battery.

[0007] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a conducting tube for connecting two thermal management components, wherein the conducting tube includes a second tube and two first tubes, wherein the two first tubes are respectively used to be connected to the two thermal management components; the second tube connects the two first tubes, and the second tube includes a first flexible section, wherein the first flexible section is located between the two first tubes.

[0008] In the above technical solution, the second tube connects the two first tubes. The second tube includes a first flexible section, and the first flexible section is located between the two first tubes. The provision of the first flexible section allows for lower precision requirements on the relative position of the thermal management components and the conductive tube when the two thermal management components are connected through the conductive tube, and also allows for a better sealed connection between the thermal management components and the conductive tube. For example, due to the flexibility of the first flexible section, the two thermal management components and the conductive tube can be required to be not completely aligned. The flexibility of the first flexible section can alleviate the problem of leakage caused by the misaligned connection of the two thermal management components. When the conductive tube is used in a battery, the provision of the first flexible section can also alleviate the problem of loose connection between the thermal management component and the conductive tube caused by expansion and contraction of the battery cells and the thermal management component, thereby improving the reliability of the battery equipped with the conductive tube. In addition, the two first tubes are flexibly connected by the first flexible section. By compressing and bending the first flexible section, the volume of the first flexible section can be reduced, thereby helping to reduce the size of the conductive tube for application in small spaces.

[0009] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, the second tube further includes a second flexible segment and a third flexible segment, and the two first tubes are respectively sleeved on the outside of the second flexible segment and the third flexible segment.

[0010] In the above technical solution, the provision of the second flexible section and the third flexible section not only facilitates the connection between the first tube and the second tube, but also serves as a seal when the docking portion of the thermal management component is inserted into the first tube, thereby reducing the risk of leakage and improving the reliability of the battery equipped with the conducting tube.

[0011] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, the first flexible segment, the second flexible segment and the third flexible segment are integrally formed.

[0012] In the above technical solution, the first flexible segment, the second flexible segment and the third flexible segment are integrally formed, which facilitates the manufacturing of the second tube. After the conducting tube connects the two thermal management components, it is also beneficial to improve the sealing performance of the connection between the conducting tube and the thermal management components, thereby improving the reliability of the battery equipped with the conducting tube.

[0013] In some implementations of the first aspect of the present application, the first flexible section is a bellows.

[0014] In the above technical solution, the bellows has good expansion, bending, twisting and other properties. When the conductive tube is used in a battery, the bellows can adapt to the expansion and deformation of the battery cell, thereby reducing the risk of leakage at the connection between the thermal management component and the conductive tube and the problem of loose connection between the thermal management component and the conductive tube due to the expansion of the battery cell, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the battery equipped with the conductive tube.

[0015] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, the thermal management component has a docking portion; at least one of the first tubes includes a connecting section and a flared section, the first flexible section is located at one end of the connecting section, the flared section is connected to the other end of the connecting section, and the flared section is configured to guide the docking portion to dock with the connecting section.

[0016] In the above technical solution, the provision of the flared section facilitates the docking of the docking portion and the connecting section of the thermal management component, thereby facilitating the connection between the docking portion and the first tube.

[0017] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, the first tube is provided with a limiting portion, and the limiting portions of the two first tubes are used to prevent the two first tubes from approaching each other when they abut against each other along the axial direction of the first tube.

[0018] In the above technical solution, the limiting portions of the two first tubes can prevent the two first tubes from approaching each other when they abut against each other along the axial direction of the first tubes, so that the limiting portions can provide mutual support force when the conducting tubes are connected to the thermal management component, thereby facilitating the docking of the thermal management component and the conducting tubes, and facilitating a better docking effect between the thermal management component and the conducting tubes.

[0019] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, the limiting portion is at least partially located outside the first flexible segment.

[0020] In the above technical solution, the limiting portion is at least partially located on the outside of the first flexible section. Then, along the axial direction of the first tube, the two adjacent first tubes can move a small distance in the direction of approaching to achieve the abutment of the limiting portions on the two first tubes, which is convenient for the docking of the thermal management component and the conducting tube, and is conducive to a better docking effect between the thermal management component and the conducting tube.

[0021] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, the first tube is provided with a plurality of limiting portions, and the plurality of limiting portions are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first flexible segment.

[0022] In the above technical solution, multiple limiting portions are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first flexible segment. When the limiting portions on the two first tubes abut against each other, multiple abutting positions can be formed along the circumference of the first flexible segment, which is beneficial to improving the abutment stability and stably preventing the two first tubes from approaching each other.

[0023] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, the limiting portion is connected to an end of the first tube close to the first flexible section.

[0024] In the above technical solution, the limiting portion is connected to one end of the first tube close to the first flexible section, so that the abutting portions on the two first tubes are closer. The two adjacent first tubes can be moved a small distance in the approaching direction to achieve the abutment of the limiting portions on the two first tubes, which is convenient for the docking of the thermal management component and the conducting tube, and is conducive to a better docking effect of the thermal management component and the conducting tube.

[0025] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, the thermal management component has a docking portion, which is used to dock with the first tube; the first tube is provided with a hook portion, which is used to hook and cooperate with the docking portion to prevent the first tube from detaching from the docking portion along the axial direction of the first tube.

[0026] In the above technical solution, a hook portion is provided on the first tube, and the hook portion and the docking hook portion on the thermal management component are beneficial to improving the connection stability between the thermal management component and the first tube, thereby improving the connection stability and sealing performance between the thermal management component and the conducting tube.

[0027] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, the first tube is provided with a plurality of the hook portions, and the plurality of the hook portions are arranged at intervals on the outside of the first tube along the circumference of the first tube.

[0028] In the above technical solution, the first tube is provided with a plurality of hook parts, and the plurality of hook parts and the thermal management component are hooked and matched, which can further improve the connection stability between the thermal management component and the first tube.

[0029] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, an annular protrusion is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first tube, and the hook portion and the limiting portion are respectively provided on both sides of the annular protrusion along the axial direction of the first tube, and the limiting portions of the two first tubes are used to prevent the two first tubes from approaching each other when they abut against each other along the axial direction of the first tube.

[0030] In the above technical solution, an annular protrusion is provided, and a hook portion and a stop portion are respectively provided on either side of the annular protrusion along the axial direction of the first tube, thereby facilitating the installation of the hook portion and the stop portion. The stop portions of the two first tubes can prevent the two first tubes from approaching each other when they abut against each other along the axial direction of the first tubes. This allows the stop portions to provide mutual support when the conducting tube and the thermal management component are connected, facilitating the docking of the thermal management component and the conducting tube, and promoting a better docking effect between the thermal management component and the conducting tube.

[0031] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present application, a sealing groove is provided on the outer circumference or the inner circumference of the first tube, and the sealing groove is used to accommodate a sealing member.

[0032] In the above technical solution, the provision of the sealing groove facilitates the sealed connection between the conducting tube and the thermal management component, so that there is better sealing performance between the two, thereby improving the reliability of the battery equipped with the conducting tube.

[0033] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a thermal management assembly, which includes a conducting pipe provided in any embodiment of the first aspect and a plurality of thermal management components, wherein the conducting pipe connects two of the thermal management components.

[0034] In the above technical solution, the second tube of the conductive tube provided in the first embodiment connects the two first tubes. The second tube includes a first flexible segment, and the first flexible segment is located between the two first tubes. The provision of the first flexible segment reduces the relative positioning precision requirements of the thermal management components and the conductive tube when the conductive tube connects the two thermal management components, and can also achieve a better sealed connection between the thermal management components and the conductive tube. For example, due to the flexibility of the first flexible segment, the two thermal management components and the conductive tube can be required to be not completely aligned. The flexibility of the first flexible segment can alleviate the problem of leakage caused by the misaligned connection of the two thermal management components, thereby improving the sealing performance and reliability of the thermal management assembly. When the conductive tube is used in a battery, the provision of the first flexible segment can also alleviate the problem of loose connection between the thermal management component and the conductive tube caused by expansion and contraction of the battery cells and the thermal management component, thereby improving the reliability of the battery equipped with the thermal management assembly. In addition, the two first tubes are flexibly connected by the first flexible segment. By compressing and bending the first flexible segment, the volume of the first flexible segment can be reduced, which helps to reduce the size of the conductive tube and facilitate its application in small spaces.

[0035] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present application, the thermal management component includes a docking portion, and the docking portion is plug-fitted with the first tube.

[0036] In the above technical solution, the docking portion of the thermal management component and the first tube are plugged together, making the connection between the thermal management component and the conducting tube more convenient.

[0037] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery, comprising a battery cell and the thermal management component provided by any embodiment of the second aspect, wherein the battery cell is arranged between two adjacent thermal management components.

[0038] In the above technical solution, the thermal management assembly provided by the embodiment of the second aspect has good sealing and reliability, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the battery equipped with the thermal management assembly.

[0039] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an electrical device, which includes the battery provided in the embodiment of the third aspect.

[0040] In the above technical solutions, the battery provided in the third aspect embodiment has good reliability, which is beneficial to improving the power reliability and power stability of electrical equipment powered by the battery. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the embodiments. It should be understood that the following drawings only show certain embodiments of the present application and therefore should not be regarded as limiting the scope. For ordinary technicians in this field, other relevant drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative work.

[0042] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0043] FIG2 is an exploded view of a battery provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0044] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of an assembled battery cell and a thermal management component according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0045] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of an incompletely assembled cell unit and thermal management assembly provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0046] FIG5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a thermal management assembly provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0047] FIG6 is a schematic structural diagram of a conducting tube provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0048] FIG7 is a schematic structural diagram of a conducting tube provided in some embodiments of the present application from another perspective;

[0049] FIG8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG7 ;

[0050] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of an assembled cell unit and a thermal management assembly provided in some other embodiments of the present application;

[0051] FIG10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A1-A1 in FIG9 ;

[0052] FIG11 is an enlarged view of point F1 in FIG10 ;

[0053]

[0054] FIG12 is a schematic structural diagram of a conducting tube provided in other embodiments of the present application;

[0055] FIG13 is a schematic diagram of a conducting tube from another perspective provided in some other embodiments of the present application;

[0056] FIG14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A2-A2 in FIG13 ;

[0057] FIG15 is a schematic structural diagram of a conducting tube provided in yet other embodiments of the present application;

[0058] FIG16 is a schematic structural diagram of a conducting tube from another perspective provided in yet other embodiments of the present application;

[0059] FIG17 is a schematic structural diagram of a thermal management assembly provided in some other embodiments of the present application;

[0060] FIG18 is a schematic structural diagram of a thermal management assembly from another perspective provided in other embodiments of the present application;

[0061] FIG19 is a schematic structural diagram of a thermal management assembly provided in some other embodiments of the present application from another perspective;

[0062] FIG20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A3-A3 in FIG19 ;

[0063] FIG21 is an enlarged view of point F2 in FIG20 ;

[0064] FIG22 is a schematic structural diagram of a conducting tube provided in some other embodiments of the present application;

[0065] FIG23 is a schematic structural diagram of a conducting tube from another perspective provided in some other embodiments of the present application;

[0066] FIG24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A4-A4 in FIG23 .

[0067] Icons: 1000-vehicle; 100-battery; 10-battery cell; 20-housing; 21-first part; 22-second part; 30-thermal management assembly; 31-conducting tube; 311-first tube; 3111-connecting section; 3112-flaring section; 31121-first end; 31122-second end; 3113-sealing groove; 312-second tube; 3121-first flexible section; 3122-second flexible section; 31221-outer circumference of the second flexible section; 31222-inner circumference of the second flexible section; 31223-first section; 31224-second section; 31225-third end; 312 26-fourth end; 3123-third flexible segment; 31231-outer circumference of the third flexible segment; 31232-inner circumference of the third flexible segment; 31233-third segment; 31234-fourth segment; 31235-fifth end; 31236-sixth end; 313-limiting portion; 314-annular protrusion; 315-hook portion; 3151-second main body; 3152-hook portion; 31521-guide slope; 32-thermal management component; 321-docking portion; 3211-first main body; 3212-limiting protrusion; 322-extrusion protrusion; 200-controller; 300-motor; 400-seal. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present application more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments. Generally, the components of the embodiments of the present application described and shown in the drawings herein can be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0069] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the present application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the present application for protection, but merely represents selected embodiments of the present application. All other embodiments obtained by persons of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments in the present application without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0070] It should be noted that, unless there is any conflict, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0071] It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters denote similar items in the following drawings, and therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it does not need to be further defined or explained in subsequent drawings.

[0072] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that the indicated orientations or positional relationships are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, or are the orientations or positional relationships in which the product of the application is conventionally placed when in use, or are the orientations or positional relationships conventionally understood by those skilled in the art. These are merely for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting the present application. In addition, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0073] The term "plurality" used in this application refers to two or more (including two).

[0074] In this application, battery cells may include lithium-ion secondary batteries, lithium-ion primary batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, or magnesium-ion batteries, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit this. Battery cells may be cylindrical, flat, rectangular, or other shapes, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit this. Battery cells are generally divided into three types based on the packaging method: cylindrical battery cells, prismatic battery cells, and soft-pack battery cells, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0075] The battery referred to in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module that includes 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 battery pack. A battery generally includes a casing for enclosing one or more battery cells or multiple battery modules. The casing can reduce the risk of liquids or other foreign matter affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells.

[0076] A battery cell consists of a housing, an electrode assembly, and an electrolyte. The housing houses the electrode assembly and electrolyte. The electrode assembly consists of a positive electrode sheet, a negative electrode sheet, and a separator. A battery cell primarily operates by the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrode sheets.

[0077] Currently, market developments indicate that power batteries are becoming increasingly widely used. They are not only used in energy storage systems such as hydropower, thermal, wind, and solar power plants, but are also widely used in electric vehicles like electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric vehicles, as well as in military equipment and aerospace. As power battery applications continue to expand, market demand is also growing.

[0078] In typical power batteries, multiple battery cells are typically arranged in an array within the battery housing to ensure sufficient power. However, the battery cells generate a significant amount of heat during continuous charging and discharging, which can cause the battery's internal temperature to rise. Stacking multiple battery cells exacerbates this phenomenon, severely impacting the battery's performance and service life. In severe cases, it can lead to accidents such as fires and explosions, compromising power reliability. Alternatively, the battery may malfunction due to exposure to low temperatures. Therefore, thermal management components are typically installed within the battery to regulate the temperature of the battery cells. Thermal management components can be placed between adjacent battery cells along the stacking direction, with at least one battery cell placed between each pair of adjacent thermal management components. The thermal management component can be a water-cooled plate. If the battery includes multiple thermal management components, each component is connected to the other through a conductive tube, allowing the components to be connected in series or / and in parallel to facilitate the flow of heat exchange medium within the thermal management components, thereby forming a complete temperature regulation system. The following problems exist with the conductive tube in the related technology: 1. The conductive tube is large in size and has high requirements for installation space. It is not suitable for some high-energy-density products and has limited usage scenarios; 2. The conductive tube requires that the connecting tubes at both ends have a high degree of alignment. A slight misalignment will cause the seal to fail and leakage to occur; 3. The elasticity and scalability of the conductive tube are extremely poor. In this usage scenario, after the battery cell cyclically expands, it will pull on the thermal management part, eventually causing detachment, failure and leakage, thereby reducing the reliability of the battery.

[0079] Based on the above considerations, in order to alleviate the problem of low reliability of the battery caused by the low reliability of the conducting tube connecting the two thermal management components, an embodiment of the present application provides a conducting tube for connecting the two thermal management components, the conducting tube includes a second tube and two first tubes, the two first tubes are used to be connected to the two thermal management components respectively; the second tube connects the two first tubes, the second tube includes a first flexible section, and the first flexible section is located between the two first tubes.

[0080] The second tube connects the two first tubes and includes a first flexible section, which is located between the two first tubes. The provision of the first flexible section reduces the relative positioning precision requirements for the thermal management components and the conductive tube when connecting the two thermal management components through the conductive tube, while also achieving a better sealed connection between the thermal management components and the conductive tube. For example, due to the flexibility of the first flexible section, the two thermal management components and the conductive tube can be required to be less than completely aligned. Utilizing the flexibility of the first flexible section, leakage caused by misaligned connection of the two thermal management components can be alleviated. When the conductive tube is used in a battery, the provision of the first flexible section can also alleviate the problem of loose connection between the thermal management component and the conductive tube caused by expansion and contraction of the battery cells and the thermal management component, thereby improving the reliability of the battery equipped with the conductive tube.

[0081] In addition, the two first tubes are flexibly connected through the first flexible segment. The volume of the first flexible segment can be reduced by compressing and bending the first flexible segment, which is beneficial to reducing the size of the conducting tube for easy application in small space scenarios.

[0082] Thermal management components with the conductive tubes disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be used, but are not limited to, in electrical equipment such as vehicles, ships, or aircraft. The power supply system of such electrical equipment can be composed of a battery with the disclosed battery, which helps improve battery reliability.

[0083] The embodiments of the present application provide an electric device that uses a battery as a power source. The electric device may be, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, a tablet, a laptop computer, an electric toy, an electric tool, a battery-powered vehicle, an electric car, a ship, a spacecraft, etc. The electric toy may include a fixed or mobile electric toy, such as a game console, an electric car toy, an electric ship toy, and an electric airplane toy, etc. The spacecraft may include an airplane, a rocket, a space shuttle, and a spacecraft, etc.

[0084] For the convenience of description, the following embodiments are described by taking a vehicle 1000 as an example of an electrical device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0085] Please refer to Figure 1, which is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle 1000 provided in some embodiments of the present application. The vehicle 1000 can be a fuel vehicle, a gas vehicle or a new energy vehicle. The new energy vehicle can be a pure electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle or an extended-range vehicle, etc. A battery 100 is provided inside the vehicle 1000, and the battery 100 can be provided at the bottom, head or tail of the vehicle 1000. The battery 100 can be used to power the vehicle 1000. For example, the battery 100 can serve as an operating power source for the vehicle 1000. The vehicle 1000 may also include a controller 200 and a motor 300. The controller 200 is used to control the battery 100 to power the motor 300, for example, for starting, navigating and driving the vehicle 1000.

[0086] In some embodiments of the present application, the battery 100 can serve not only as an operating power source for the vehicle 1000, but also as a driving power source for the vehicle 1000, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.

[0087] As shown in FIG2 , a battery 100 includes a battery cell 10. A battery cell 10 is the smallest unit that makes up the battery 100. The battery 100 may include multiple battery cells 10. The multiple battery cells 10 may be connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid configuration. Hybrid configuration refers to multiple battery cells 10 being connected both in series and in parallel.

[0088] As shown in Figure 2, in some embodiments, the battery 100 may further include a housing 20, within which the battery cells 10 are housed. The housing 20 is used to provide a storage space for the battery cells 10 and can have various structures. In some embodiments, the housing 20 may include a first portion 21 and a second portion 22, which overlap each other and together define a storage space for the battery cells 10. The second portion 22 may be a hollow structure with one end open. The first portion 21 may be a plate-like structure, with the first portion 21 overlapping the open side of the second portion 22, thereby jointly defining the storage space. Alternatively, the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 may each be a hollow structure with one end open, with the open side of the first portion 21 overlapping the open side of the second portion 22. Of course, the housing 20 formed by the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 can have various shapes, such as a cylinder or a rectangular parallelepiped.

[0089] Multiple battery cells 10 can be directly connected in series, parallel, or hybrid, and then the entire battery unit 10 can be housed in the housing 20. Of course, the battery 100 can also be formed by first connecting multiple battery cells 10 in series, parallel, or hybrid to form a battery module, and then connecting multiple battery modules in series, parallel, or hybrid to form an entire battery unit and housed in the housing 20.

[0090] The battery 100 may further include other structures. For example, the battery 100 may further include a busbar component (not shown) for achieving electrical connection between the plurality of battery cells 10 .

[0091] Each battery cell 10 can be a secondary battery or a primary battery; it can also be a lithium-sulfur battery, a sodium-ion battery, or a magnesium-ion battery, but is not limited thereto. The battery cell 10 can be cylindrical, flat, rectangular, or in other shapes.

[0092] As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, in some embodiments, the battery 100 also includes a thermal management assembly 30. The thermal management assembly 30 includes a conducting tube 31 and multiple thermal management components 32. The conducting tube 31 connects two thermal management components 32, and a battery cell 10 is arranged between two adjacent thermal management components 32.

[0093] The thermal management component 32 is used to adjust the temperature of the battery cell 10. The thermal management component 32 can be used to lower the temperature of the battery cell 10 or to increase the temperature of the battery cell 10.

[0094] In some embodiments, a flow channel for accommodating a heat exchange medium is formed inside the thermal management component 32. The thermal management component 32 can be a plate-like structure with a flow channel for accommodating a heat exchange medium formed inside. The heat exchange medium in the flow channel can be water, air, a mixture of water and ethylene glycol, a refrigerant, a phase change material, etc., and the heat exchange medium can be circulating. In other embodiments, the heat exchange medium in the flow channel can also be solid, such as paraffin, etc. The heat exchange function can be achieved through the physical change of the heat exchange medium. For example, when paraffin changes from a solid state to a liquid, it can absorb heat to achieve the effect of cooling the battery cell 10. The thermal management component 32 can also be called a water-cooled plate, a liquid-cooled plate, a heat exchange plate, a temperature regulating plate, etc.

[0095] In the case of a prismatic battery cell 10, the large surfaces of two adjacent battery cells 10 are positioned facing each other, with a thermal management component 32 positioned between the large surfaces of the two adjacent battery cells 10. The two adjacent thermal management components 32 are positioned on either side of the battery cell 10, facing the large surfaces of the battery cell 10. The large surface of the battery cell 10 refers to the surface with the largest area of ​​the prismatic battery cell.

[0096] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, an embodiment of the present application provides a conducting tube 31 for connecting two thermal management components 32. The conducting tube 31 includes a second tube 312 and two first tubes 311. The two first tubes 311 are respectively used to be connected to the two thermal management components 32; the second tube 312 connects the two first tubes 311, and the second tube 312 includes a first flexible section 3121. The first flexible section 3121 is located between the two first tubes 311.

[0097] The first tube 311 and the heat management component 32 may be fixedly connected. For example, the first tube 311 and the heat management component 32 are fixedly connected by welding, bonding, or the like.

[0098] The first tube 311 and the thermal management component 32 can be detachably connected. For example, the thermal management component 32 includes a docking portion 321 that plugs into and mates with the first tube 311. Of course, the thermal management component 32 and the first tube 311 can also be detachably connected using bolts, screws, or other similar methods.

[0099] The material of the first tube 311 can be metal, such as aluminum, copper, stainless steel, etc. The material of the first tube 311 can also be non-metallic such as plastic, rubber, etc. Exemplarily, the first tube 311 can be made of hard plastic injection molding.

[0100] The first flexible section 3121 has properties such as axial expansion and contraction, radial deformation, and radial misalignment to alleviate the problem of leakage caused by the misalignment of the connection position between the conducting tube 31 and the thermal management component 32. The material of the first flexible section 3121 can be metal, such as aluminum, copper, stainless steel, etc., such as an aluminum foil tube or a copper foil tube. The material of the first flexible section 3121 can also be non-metallic such as plastic or rubber. The first flexible section 3121 can be a plastic hose, a rubber hose, etc. The hardness of the first tube 311 is greater than the hardness of the first flexible section 3121, so as to facilitate the connection between the first tube 311 and the thermal management component 32 and improve the stability of the first tube 311 and the thermal management component 32 after connection.

[0101] The first flexible segment 3121 can be located between the two first tubes 311 before and after expansion and contraction. Before radial deformation and radial displacement, the first flexible segment 3121 is located between the two first tubes 311. After radial deformation and radial displacement, the first flexible segment 3121 can be completely located between the two first tubes 311, or partially located between the two first tubes 311, with the remaining portion extending out from between the two first tubes 311.

[0102] The second tube 312 connects the two first tubes 311 and includes a first flexible section 3121 located between the two first tubes 311. The provision of the first flexible section 3121 reduces the relative positioning requirements for the thermal management components 32 and the conductive tube 31 when connecting the two thermal management components 32 via the conductive tube 31, thereby achieving a well-sealed connection between the thermal management components 32 and the conductive tube 31. For example, the flexibility of the first flexible section 3121 allows for the two thermal management components 32 and the conductive tube 31 to be less aligned. This flexibility mitigates leakage issues caused by misaligned connection between the two thermal management components 32. When the conductive tube 31 is used in the battery 100, the provision of the first flexible section 3121 also mitigates the risk of loosening the connection between the thermal management components 32 and the conductive tube 31 due to expansion and contraction of the battery cells 10 and the thermal management components 32, thereby improving the reliability of the battery 100 equipped with the conductive tube 31. In addition, the two first tubes 311 are flexibly connected by the first flexible segment 3121. The volume of the first flexible segment 3121 can be reduced by compressing and bending the first flexible segment 3121, which is beneficial to reducing the size of the conducting tube 31 for easy application in small space scenarios.

[0103] In some embodiments, the second tube 312 includes only the first flexible segment 3121. It can be understood that the first flexible segment 3121 is the second tube 312. The two first tubes 311 are respectively connected to the two axial ends of the first flexible segment 3121. For example, one end of one first tube 311 is welded or fused to one end of the first flexible segment 3121, and one end of the other first tube 311 is welded or fused to the other end of the first flexible segment 3121.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 , in some embodiments, the second tube 312 further includes a second flexible segment 3122 and a third flexible segment 3123 , and the two first tubes 311 are respectively sleeved on the outside of the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 .

[0105] As shown in Figures 9-11 , the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 can both be deformable in the radial direction of the first tube 311. When the wall portion of the second flexible segment 3122 is subjected to a compressive force in the radial direction of the first tube 311, the wall portion of the second flexible segment 3122 can deform in the radial direction of the first tube 311. When the wall portion of the third flexible segment 3123 is subjected to a compressive force in the radial direction of the first tube 311, the wall portion of the third flexible segment 3123 can deform in the radial direction of the first tube 311. In this way, in the embodiment where the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 is inserted into the first tube 311, the second flexible section 3122 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 and is located between the outer periphery of the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 and the inner periphery of the first tube 311. The docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 and the first tube 311 jointly squeeze the second flexible tube in the radial direction of the first tube 311. The second flexible section 3122 can be inserted between the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 and the first tube 311. 311, the third flexible section 3123 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the docking portion 321 of another thermal management component 32, and is located between the outer peripheral surface of the docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32 and the inner peripheral surface of the other first tube 311. The docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32 and the first tube 311 jointly squeeze the third flexible tube in the radial direction of the first tube 311, and the third flexible section 3123 can play a sealing role between the docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32 and the first tube 311.

[0106] As shown in Figure 11, in some embodiments, an extrusion protrusion 322 is provided on the outer periphery of the docking portion 321, and the extrusion protrusion 322 is used to squeeze the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 when the docking portion 321 is inserted into the first tube 311, so that the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 can better play a sealing role between the docking portion 321 and the first tube 311.

[0107] The second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 are respectively connected to the ends of the first flexible segment 3121. The first flexible segment 3121, the second flexible segment 3122, and the third flexible segment 3123 can be provided as separate parts and then connected to form a whole structure. Of course, the first flexible segment 3121, the second flexible segment 3122, and the third flexible segment 3123 can also be integrally formed.

[0108] The outer circumference 31221 of the second flexible segment is aligned with the inner circumference of one first tube 311. The outer circumference 31231 of the third flexible segment is aligned with the inner circumference of the other first tube 311. The inner circumference 31222 of the second flexible segment and the outer circumference 31221 of the second flexible segment are the same shape. The inner circumference 31232 of the third flexible segment and the outer circumference 31231 of the third flexible segment are the same shape.

[0109] In the embodiment where two first tubes 311 are respectively sleeved around the outside of the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123, one first tube 311 and the second flexible segment 3122 can be manufactured using a two-color injection molding process, while the other first tube 311 and the third flexible segment 3123 can also be manufactured using a two-color injection molding process. After the injection molding is completed, the outer circumference 31221 of the second flexible segment is connected to the inner circumference of one first tube 311, and the outer circumference 31231 of the third flexible segment is connected to the inner circumference of the other first tube 311.

[0110] In other embodiments, the outer circumference 31221 of the second flexible segment and the inner circumference of one first tube 311 may also be bonded by adhesive, and the outer circumference 31231 of the third flexible segment and the inner circumference of another first tube 311 may be bonded by adhesive.

[0111] The provision of the second flexible section 3122 and the third flexible section 3123 not only facilitates the connection between the first tube 311 and the second tube 312, but also serves as a seal when the docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32 is inserted into the first tube 311, thereby reducing the risk of leakage and improving the reliability of the battery 100 equipped with the conducting tube 31.

[0112] In some embodiments, the first flexible segment 3121 , the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 are integrally formed.

[0113] The first flexible segment 3121, the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 are integrally formed, which means that the first flexible segment 3121, the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 are manufactured by an integral molding method. For example, the first flexible segment 3121, the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 can be integrally injection molded of soft plastic, or can be molded by soft rubber extrusion or other processes.

[0114] The first flexible segment 3121, the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 are integrally formed, which facilitates the manufacturing of the second tube 312. After the conducting tube 31 connects the two thermal management components 32, it is also beneficial to improve the sealing performance of the connection between the conducting tube 31 and the thermal management components 32, thereby improving the reliability of the battery 100 equipped with the conducting tube 31.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 6-FIG . 8 , in some embodiments, the first flexible section 3121 is a bellows.

[0116] A bellows is a tubular elastic sensitive element made of foldable corrugated sheets connected along the folding and expansion direction. The bellows can have a relatively uniform wall thickness and is flexible in all directions, enabling axial expansion and contraction as well as radial deformation and displacement.

[0117] Therefore, the bellows has good expansion, bending, twisting and other properties. When the conducting tube 31 is used in the battery 100, the bellows can adapt to the expansion and deformation of the battery cell 10, thereby reducing the risk of leakage at the connection position between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31 and the problem of loose connection between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31 due to the expansion of the battery cell 10, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the battery 100 equipped with the conducting tube 31.

[0118] Of course, in other embodiments, the first flexible section 3121 may also be a flexible tube with relatively smooth outer and inner surfaces, which has a certain degree of axial expansion and contraction capability and radial deformation and misalignment capabilities. When this conductive tube 31 is used in a battery 100, the flexible tube can adapt to the expansion and deformation of the battery cells 10, thereby reducing the risk of leakage at the connection between the thermal management component 32 and the conductive tube 31 and the problem of loosening the connection between the thermal management component 32 and the conductive tube 31 due to the expansion of the battery cells 10, thereby improving the reliability of the battery 100 equipped with this conductive tube 31.

[0119] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, in some embodiments, the thermal management component 32 has a docking portion 321; at least one first tube 311 includes a connecting section 3111 and a flared section 3112, the first flexible section 3121 is located at one end of the connecting section 3111, and the flared section 3112 is connected to the other end of the connecting section 3111, and the flared section 3112 is configured to guide the docking portion 321 to dock with the connecting section 3111.

[0120] Only one of the two first tubes 311 may include the flared section 3112 and the connecting section 3111, wherein the first tube 311 that is sleeved on the outside of the second flexible section 3122 may include the flared section 3112 and the connecting section 3111, or the first tube 311 that is sleeved on the outside of the third flexible section 3123 may include the flared section 3112 and the connecting section 3111.

[0121] Alternatively, each of the two first tubes 311 may include a flared section 3112 and a connecting section 3111 .

[0122] The first flexible section 3121 and the flared section 3112 are respectively located at the two ends of the connecting section 3111, and the flared section 3112 is connected to one end of the connecting section 3111. The connecting section 3111 and the flared section 3112 can be provided separately and then connected to form a whole structure. The connecting section 3111 and the flared section 3112 can also be integrally formed.

[0123] The connecting pipe can be a pipe of constant diameter. For example, the connecting pipe is a circular pipe, and along the axial direction of the first pipe 311, the diameter of any position of the connecting pipe is the same.

[0124] The flared section 3112 has a first end 31121 and a second end 31122 that are opposite each other, and the first end 31121 is connected to the connecting section 3111. Both the first end 31121 and the second end 31122 are formed with an opening, and the opening of the second end 31122 allows the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 to be inserted into the first tube 311. The area of ​​the opening at the first end 31121 is smaller than the area of ​​the opening at the second end 31122, facilitating the insertion of the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 into the first tube 311. The inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the flared section 3112 can both be conical surfaces, with the small end of the cone located at the first end 31121 and the large end of the cone located at the second end 31122. The cone can be a circular cone or a pyramidal surface.

[0125] The provision of the flared section 3112 facilitates the docking of the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 and the connecting section 3111 , thereby facilitating the connection between the docking portion 321 and the first tube 311 .

[0126] Of course, the first tube 311 may also be a tube of equal diameter.

[0127] The structures of the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 can match the structures of the corresponding first tube 311. In the embodiment where the first tube 311, which is sleeved outside the second flexible segment 3122, includes a flared segment 3112 and a connecting segment 3111, the second flexible segment 3122 can include a first segment 31223 and a second segment 31224, with the second segment 31224 and the first flexible segment 3121 respectively connected to the ends of the first segment 31223.

[0128] The second section 31224 has a third end 31225 and a fourth end 31226 that are opposite each other. The third end 31225 is connected to one end of the first section 31223. Both the third end 31225 and the fourth end 31226 have openings. The opening at the fourth end 31226 allows the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 to be inserted into the first tube 311. The area of ​​the opening at the third end 31225 is smaller than that of the opening at the fourth end 31226, facilitating insertion of the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 into the first tube 311. The outer circumference of the second section 31224 matches the inner circumference of the flared section 3112. For example, if the inner circumference of the flared section 3112 and the outer circumference of the second section 31224 are both conical surfaces, then if the inner circumference of the flared section 3112 is a circular cone, then the outer circumference of the second section 31224 is also a circular cone; if the inner circumference of the flared section 3112 is a pyramid, then the outer circumference of the second section 31224 is also a pyramid. The outer circumference of the second section 31224 aligns with the inner circumference of the flared section 3112. Both the inner and outer circumferences of the second section 31224 can be conical surfaces, with the smaller end of the cone located at the third end 31225 and the larger end located at the fourth end 31226. The inner and outer conical surfaces of the second section 31224 can be either circular cones or pyramids.

[0129] In an embodiment in which the first tube 311 sleeved on the outside of the third flexible segment 3123 includes a flared segment 3112 and a connecting segment 3111, the third flexible segment 3123 may include a third segment 31233 and a fourth segment 31234, and the fourth segment 31234 and the first flexible segment 3121 are respectively connected to the two ends of the third segment 31233.

[0130] The fourth section 31234 has a fifth end 31235 and a sixth end 31236 that are opposite each other. The fifth end 31235 is connected to one end of the third section 31233. Both the fifth end 31235 and the sixth end 31236 have openings. The opening at the sixth end 31236 allows the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 to be inserted into the first tube 311. The area of ​​the opening at the fifth end 31235 is smaller than that of the opening at the sixth end 31236, facilitating insertion of the docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 into the first tube 311. The outer circumference of the fourth section 31234 matches the inner circumference of the flared section 3112. For example, both the inner circumference of the flared section 3112 and the outer circumference of the fourth section 31234 are conical surfaces. If the inner circumference of the flared section 3112 is a circular conical surface, the outer circumference of the fourth section 31234 is also a circular conical surface; if the inner circumference of the flared section 3112 is a pyramidal surface, the outer circumference of the fourth section 31234 is also a pyramidal surface. The outer circumference of the fourth section 31234 mates with the inner circumference of the flared section 3112. Both the inner and outer circumferences of the fourth section 31234 can be conical surfaces, with the smaller end of the cone located at the fifth end 31235 and the larger end of the cone located at the sixth end 31236. The inner and outer circumferences of the fourth section 31234 can be either circular conical or pyramidal.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 12 to FIG. 14 , in some embodiments, the first tube 311 is provided with a limiting portion 313 , and the limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 are used to prevent the two first tubes 311 from approaching each other when they abut against each other along the axial direction of the first tube 311 .

[0132] The limiting portion 313 and the first tube 311 can be separate components that are then connected to form a single unit. The limiting portion 313 and the first tube 311 can be fixedly connected, for example, by welding, adhesive bonding, or fusing. The limiting portion 313 and the first tube 311 can also be detachably connected, for example, by bolts, screws, or snap fasteners.

[0133] Because the first flexible section 3121 can expand and contract axially, when the first flexible section 3121 contracts axially, the two first tubes 311 can move closer to each other, and the distance between the two first tubes 311 gradually decreases until the limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 abut against each other. When the first flexible section 3121 expands axially, the two first tubes 311 can move away from each other, and the distance between the two first tubes 311 gradually increases.

[0134] The limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 can abut against each other after the first flexible segment 3121 contracts a certain distance in the axial direction. When the limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 abut against each other, the first flexible segment 3121 can be axially contracted to the limit position. That is, when the limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 abut against each other, even if force is continued to be applied to the first flexible segment 3121, the first flexible segment 3121 cannot continue to axially contract. When the limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 abut against each other, the first flexible segment 3121 may not be axially contracted to the limit position. That is, when the limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 abut against each other, if the limiting portions 313 are removed and force is continued to be applied to the first flexible segment 3121, the first flexible segment 3121 can continue to axially contract.

[0135] During the connection process of the first tube 311 and the thermal management component 32, the interaction force between the first tube 311 and the thermal management component 32 causes the first tube 311 to exert pressure on the first flexible segment 3121, causing the first flexible segment 3121 to be compressed axially. In this way, the first tube 311 has no supporting point on the side where the first flexible segment 3121 is located, making it difficult to achieve a stable connection between the first tube 311 and the thermal management component 32.

[0136] Therefore, the first tube 311 is provided with a limiting portion 313. The limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 can prevent the two first tubes 311 from approaching each other when they abut against each other along the axial direction of the first tube 311, so that the limiting portions 313 can provide mutual support force when the conducting tube 31 and the thermal management component 32 are connected, which facilitates the docking of the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31, and is conducive to a better docking effect between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31.

[0137] As shown in FIG. 12 to FIG. 14 , in some embodiments, the limiting portion 313 is at least partially located outside the first flexible segment 3121 .

[0138] The limiting portion 313 is connected to the first tube 311, with at least a portion extending outside the first flexible segment 3121. When viewed along at least one radial direction of the first flexible segment 3121, at least a portion of the limiting portion 313 overlaps with a portion of the first flexible segment 3121. This allows the limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 to be closer together in the axial direction of the first flexible segment 3121.

[0139] The limiting portion 313 extends to the outside of the first flexible segment 3121, and the surface of the limiting portion 313 facing the first flexible segment 3121 may not contact the first flexible segment 3121, thereby reducing the risk of friction between the outer peripheral surface of the first flexible segment 3121 and the surface of the limiting portion 313 facing the first flexible segment 3121, thereby affecting the expansion and contraction of the first flexible segment 3121, and reducing the risk of wear of the limiting portion 313 and the first flexible segment 3121 due to friction between the outer peripheral surface of the first flexible segment 3121 and the surface of the limiting portion 313 facing the first flexible segment 3121.

[0140] Of course, the limiting portion 313 extends to the outside of the first flexible segment 3121 , and the surface of the limiting portion 313 facing the first flexible segment 3121 may also be in contact with the first flexible segment 3121 .

[0141] The limiting portion 313 is at least partially located on the outside of the first flexible section 3121. Then, along the axial direction of the first tube 311, the two adjacent first tubes 311 can move a small distance in the direction of approaching to achieve the abutment of the limiting portions 313 on the two first tubes 311, which is convenient for the docking of the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31, and is conducive to a better docking effect between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31.

[0142] The first tube 311 may be provided with one or more limiting portions 313. In embodiments where the first tube 311 is provided with one limiting portion 313, the limiting portion 313 may be a closed annular structure along the circumference of the first flexible segment 3121. This allows the limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 to abut against each other at any position along the circumference of the first flexible segment 3121, thereby improving the stability of the abutment. The limiting portion 313 may also be an unclosed structure along the circumference of the first flexible segment 3121, thereby reducing the weight of the conducting tube 31.

[0143] As shown in FIG. 12 , in some embodiments, the first tube 311 is provided with a plurality of limiting portions 313 , and the plurality of limiting portions 313 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first flexible segment 3121 .

[0144] Each of the multiple limiting portions 313 may extend to the outer periphery of the first flexible segment 3121 , or a portion of the limiting portions 313 may extend to the outer periphery of the first flexible segment 3121 while another portion of the limiting portions 313 may not extend to the outer periphery of the first flexible segment 3121 .

[0145] Only one of the two first tubes 311 may be provided with multiple position limiting portions 313. Specifically, the first tube 311 that is sleeved around the outer periphery of the second flexible segment 3122 or the first tube 311 that is sleeved around the outer periphery of the third flexible segment 3123 may be provided with multiple position limiting portions 313.

[0146] The two limiting portions 313 may also be that each first tube 311 is provided with a plurality of limiting portions 313 .

[0147] The plurality of limiting portions 313 may be arranged at even intervals along the circumference of the first flexible segment 3121 , or may be arranged at uneven intervals.

[0148] Multiple limiting portions 313 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first flexible segment 3121. When the limiting portions 313 on the two first tubes 311 abut against each other, multiple abutting positions can be formed along the circumference of the first flexible segment 3121, which is beneficial to improving the abutment stability and stably preventing the two first tubes 311 from approaching each other.

[0149] The limiting portion 313 is provided on the first tube 311 . The limiting portion 313 may be connected to the first tube 311 in various positions. In some embodiments, the limiting portion 313 is connected to one end of the first tube 311 close to the first flexible section 3121 .

[0150] In the embodiment where the first tube 311 includes the flared section 3112 and the connecting section 3111 , the stopper 313 is connected to an end of the connecting section 3111 away from the flared section 3112 . The stopper 313 extends from the first tube 311 to the outside of the first flexible section 3121 .

[0151] The limiting portion 313 is connected to one end of the first tube 311 close to the first flexible section 3121, so that the abutting portions on the two first tubes 311 are closer. The two adjacent first tubes 311 can move a small distance in the direction of approaching to achieve the abutment of the limiting portions 313 on the two first tubes 311, which is convenient for the docking of the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31, and is conducive to a better docking effect between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31.

[0152] In other embodiments, the limiting portion 313 may also be connected to other positions of the first tube 311 , for example, the limiting portion 313 may be connected to the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 311 .

[0153] The limiting portion 313 may be directly connected to the first tube 311 , for example, directly connected to the outer circumference of the first tube 311 or directly connected to one end of the first tube 311 close to the first flexible segment 3121 , and extend to the outer circumference of the first flexible segment 3121 .

[0154] As shown in FIG. 12 to FIG. 14 , in some embodiments, an annular protrusion 314 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 311 , and the limiting portion 313 is connected to the annular protrusion 314 along the axial direction of the first tube 311 .

[0155] The annular protrusion 314 is sleeved on the outer circumference of the first tube 311. The annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 can be provided separately and then connected to form a whole, such as by welding or bonding. The annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 can also be integrally formed.

[0156] The surface of the annular protrusion 314 facing the first flexible segment 3121 and the end surface of the first tube 311 facing the first flexible segment 3121 may be coplanar. The surface of the annular protrusion 314 facing the first flexible segment 3121 and the end surface of the first tube 311 facing the first flexible segment 3121 may also be non-coplanar.

[0157] The limiting portion 313 can be connected to the annular protrusion 314, thereby indirectly connecting the limiting portion 313 to the first tube 311 via the annular protrusion 314. The limiting portion 313, the annular protrusion 314, and the first tube 311 can be provided separately, and then connected to form an integral structure. For example, the annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 are welded or bonded, and the limiting portion 313 and the annular protrusion 314 are welded or bonded.

[0158] The limiting portion 313 , the annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 may also be integrally formed.

[0159] The limiting portion 313 can be connected to any position of the annular protrusion 314. For example, the limiting portion 313 can be connected to the side of the annular protrusion 314 facing the first flexible segment 3121, and extend to the outside of the first flexible segment 3121 in the axial direction of the first tube 311; the limiting portion 313 can also be connected to the outer peripheral surface of the annular protrusion 314, and extend to the outside of the first flexible segment 3121 in the axial direction of the first tube 311.

[0160] As shown in Figures 15 to 21, in some embodiments, the thermal management component 32 has a docking portion 321, which is used to dock with the first tube 311; the first tube 311 is provided with a hook portion 315, which is used to hook and cooperate with the docking portion 321 to prevent the first tube 311 from detaching from the docking portion 321 along the axial direction of the first tube 311.

[0161] The hook portion 315 is a hook provided on the first tube 311. The hook portion 315 is provided on the outer periphery of the first tube 311 and extends axially of the first tube 311 in a direction away from the first flexible section 3121. In other words, the hook portion 315 is provided on the outer periphery of the first tube 311 and extends axially of the first tube 311 in a direction close to the docking portion 321, thereby facilitating the hooking and mating of the hook portion 315 and the docking portion 321.

[0162] The docking portion 321 includes a first body portion 3211 and a stopper protrusion 3212, which is connected to the stopper protrusion 3212. The stopper protrusion 3212 protrudes from the outer circumference of the first body portion 3211. The first body portion 3211 is used to dock with the first tube 311, and the stopper protrusion 3212 is used to engage with the hook portion 315. The hook portion 315 abuts against the side of the stopper protrusion 3212 facing away from the first flexible section 3121.

[0163] The hook portion 315 includes a second body portion 3151 and a hook portion 3152. One end of the second body portion 3151 is connected to the first tube 311, and the hook portion 3152 is connected to the other end of the second body portion 3151. The hook portion 3152 is configured to abut against the side of the limiting protrusion 3212 facing away from the first flexible section 3121, thereby achieving hooking and engagement between the hook portion 315 and the docking portion 321.

[0164] The hook portion 3152 has a guiding slope 31521, which is used to abut against the limiting protrusion 3212 to guide the hook to move from the side of the limiting protrusion 3212 facing the first flexible segment 3121 to the side of the limiting protrusion 3212 away from the first flexible segment 3121, thereby achieving the hook abutting against the side of the limiting protrusion 3212 away from the first flexible segment 3121.

[0165] The first body portion 3211 may be provided with one limiting protrusion 3212, or may be provided with multiple limiting protrusions 3212. In the embodiment where the first body portion 3211 is provided with one limiting protrusion 3212, the limiting portion 313 may be a closed annular structure along the circumference of the first body portion 3211, so that the hook portion 315 can abut against the limiting portion 313 at any position along the circumference of the first body portion 3211, thereby achieving a hooking fit between the hook portion 315 and the docking portion 321. Positioning of the hook portion 315 and the limiting protrusion 3212 is not required to achieve a hooking fit between the hook portion 315 and the docking portion 321, making the connection more convenient and more efficient.

[0166] The first body portion 3211 may also be provided with a plurality of limiting protrusions 3212, which are spaced apart along the circumference of the first body portion 3211. Each limiting protrusion 3212 can engage with at least one hook of the hook portion 315. In this way, multiple positions along the circumference of the first body portion 3211 can engage with the conducting tube 31, further improving the stability of the connection between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31.

[0167] A hook portion 315 is provided on the first tube 311. The hook portion 315 and the docking hook portion 315 on the thermal management component 32 are beneficial to improving the connection stability between the thermal management component 32 and the first tube 311, thereby improving the connection stability and sealing performance between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31.

[0168] The first tube 311 may be provided with one hook portion 315 or multiple hook portions 315 .

[0169] As shown in FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 , in some embodiments, the first tube 311 is provided with a plurality of hook portions 315 , and the plurality of hook portions 315 are provided at intervals on the outside of the first tube 311 along the circumference of the first tube 311 .

[0170] Multiple hook portions 315 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first tube 311, and can be hooked and matched with the hook portions 315 of the thermal management component 32 at multiple positions on the circumference of the first tube 311, further improving the stability of the connection between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31.

[0171] The first tube 311 is provided with a plurality of hook portions 315 , and the plurality of hook portions 315 are hooked and matched with the thermal management component 32 , which can further improve the connection stability between the thermal management component 32 and the first tube 311 .

[0172] The number of the hook portions 315 provided on the two first tubes 311 may be the same or different.

[0173] The hook portion 315 is directly connected to the first tube 311 . For example, the hook portion 315 is directly connected to the outer circumference of the first tube 311 .

[0174] The hook portion 315 can also be indirectly connected to the first tube 311. As shown in Figures 15 and 16, in some embodiments, the outer circumference of the first tube 311 is provided with an annular protrusion 314, and the hook portion 315 is connected to the annular protrusion 314 along the axial direction of the first tube 311.

[0175] The annular protrusion 314 is sleeved on the outer circumference of the first tube 311. The annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 can be provided separately and then connected to form a whole, such as by welding or bonding. The annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 can also be integrally formed.

[0176] The hook portion 315 can be connected to the annular protrusion 314, thereby indirectly connecting the hook portion 315 to the first tube 311 through the annular protrusion 314. The hook portion 315, the annular protrusion 314, and the first tube 311 can be provided separately, and then connected to form an integral structure. For example, the annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 are welded or bonded, and the hook portion 315 and the annular protrusion 314 are welded or bonded.

[0177] The hook portion 315 , the annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 may also be integrally formed.

[0178] The hook portion 315 can be connected to any position of the annular protrusion 314. For example, the hook portion 315 can be connected to the side of the annular protrusion 314 away from the first flexible segment 3121, and extend in the axial direction of the first tube 311 away from the first flexible segment 3121; the hook portion 315 can also be connected to the outer peripheral surface of the annular protrusion 314, and extend in the axial direction of the first tube 311 away from the first flexible segment 3121.

[0179] There is space between the hook portion 315 and the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 311, which facilitates the insertion of the main body of the docking portion 321 between the hook portion 315 and the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 311, so that the hook can move to the side of the limiting protrusion 3212 away from the first flexible section 3121 and abut against the side of the limiting protrusion 3212 away from the first flexible section 3121, thereby realizing the hook cooperation between the hook portion 315 and the docking portion 321.

[0180] In an embodiment in which a limiting portion 313 is provided on the first tube 311, as shown in Figures 22 to 24, an annular protrusion 314 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first tube 311, and a hook portion 315 and a limiting portion 313 are respectively provided on both sides of the annular protrusion 314 along the axial direction of the first tube 311. The limiting portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 are used to prevent the two first tubes 311 from approaching each other when they abut against each other along the axial direction of the first tube 311.

[0181] The hook portion 315 is connected to the annular protrusion 314 on the side of the first tube 311 that is axially away from the first flexible section 3121 and extends in a direction away from the first flexible section 3121. The hook portion 315 is indirectly connected to the first tube 311 through the annular protrusion 314.

[0182] The stopper 313 is connected to the annular protrusion 314 on the side of the first tube 311 facing the first flexible section 3121 in the axial direction, and extends toward the outside of the first flexible section 3121. The stopper 313 is indirectly connected to the first tube 311 via the annular protrusion 314.

[0183] The limiting portion 313, the hook portion 315, the annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 can be set separately, and then the limiting portion 313, the hook portion 315, the annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 are connected to form an integral structure, for example, the annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 are welded or bonded, the hook portion 315 and the annular protrusion 314 are welded or bonded, and the limiting portion 313 and the annular protrusion 314 are welded or bonded.

[0184] The limiting portion 313 , the hook portion 315 , the annular protrusion 314 and the first tube 311 may also be integrally formed.

[0185] An annular protrusion 314 is provided, and a hook portion 315 and a stop portion 313 are provided on either side of the annular protrusion 314 along the axial direction of the first tube 311, respectively, to facilitate the installation of the hook portion 315 and the stop portion 313. The stop portions 313 of the two first tubes 311 can prevent the two first tubes 311 from approaching each other when they abut against each other along the axial direction of the first tubes 311. This allows the stop portions 313 to provide mutual support when the conducting tube 31 and the thermal management component 32 are connected, facilitating the docking of the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31, and promoting a better docking effect between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31.

[0186] In some embodiments, a sealing groove 3113 is provided on the outer circumference or the inner circumference of the first tube 311 , and the sealing groove 3113 is used to accommodate the sealing member 400 .

[0187] A sealing groove 3113 may be provided on the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 311. In some embodiments, the docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32 may be a tubular structure, or the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31 may be docked by inserting the first tube 311 into the docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32. If the sealing groove 3113 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 311, after the first tube 311 is inserted into the docking portion 321, the sealing member 400 housed in the sealing groove 3113 on the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 311 can provide a seal between the first tube 311 and the docking portion 321, thereby improving the sealing performance between the conducting tube 31 and the thermal management component 32.

[0188] Alternatively, a sealing groove 3113 may be provided on the inner circumference of the first tube 311. In some embodiments, the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31 may be docked by inserting the docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32 into the first tube 311. If the sealing groove 3113 is provided on the inner circumference of the first tube 311, then after the docking portion 321 is inserted into the first tube 311, the sealing member 400 housed in the sealing groove 3113 on the inner circumference of the first tube 311 can provide a seal between the first tube 311 and the docking portion 321, thereby improving the sealing performance between the conducting tube 31 and the thermal management component 32.

[0189] In an embodiment where a sealing groove 3113 is provided on the inner circumference of the first tube 311, the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 may not completely cover the inner circumference of the first tube 311, and the sealing groove 3113 is provided in an area of ​​the inner circumference of the first tube 311 that is not covered by the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123.

[0190] The sealing groove 3113 may be an annular groove provided on the inner circumferential surface or the outer circumferential surface of the first tube 311 and extending along the axial direction of the first tube 311 .

[0191] Each first tube 311 may be provided with one sealing groove 3113 or multiple sealing grooves 3113. In an embodiment where multiple sealing grooves 3113 are provided on each first tube 311, the multiple sealing grooves 3113 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first tube 311. For example, each first tube 311 is provided with two sealing grooves 3113, and the two sealing grooves 3113 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first tube 311.

[0192] The provision of the sealing groove 3113 facilitates a sealed connection between the conducting tube 31 and the thermal management component 32 , so as to provide a better sealing performance between the two and improve the reliability of the battery 100 equipped with the conducting tube 31 .

[0193] The embodiment of the present application further provides a thermal management assembly 30 , which includes a conducting pipe 31 and a plurality of thermal management components 32 provided in any of the above embodiments, wherein the conducting pipe 31 connects two thermal management components 32 .

[0194] The plurality of thermal management components 32 may be connected in pairs through the conducting tube 31. The plurality of thermal management components 32 may be partially connected through the conducting tube 31, or all of them may be connected through the conducting tube 31. The plurality of thermal management components 32 may be connected in series or in parallel through the conducting tube 31.

[0195] The second tube 312 of the conducting tube 31 provided in the above embodiment connects the two first tubes 311, and the second tube 312 includes a first flexible section 3121, and the first flexible section 3121 is located between the two first tubes 311. The setting of the first flexible section 3121 makes it possible to reduce the precision of the relative position of the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31 when the two thermal management components 32 are connected through the conducting tube 31, and also to achieve a better sealing connection between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31. For example, due to the flexibility of the first flexible section 3121, the two thermal management components 32 and the conducting tube 31 may not be completely aligned. By utilizing the flexibility of the first flexible section 3121, the problem of liquid leakage caused by the misaligned connection of the two thermal management components 32 can be alleviated, thereby improving the sealing performance and reliability of the thermal management component 30. When the conducting tube 31 is used in the battery 100, the provision of the first flexible section 3121 can also alleviate the problem of loose connection between the thermal management component 32 and the conducting tube 31 caused by expansion and contraction of the battery cell 10 and the thermal management component 32, thereby improving the reliability of the battery 100 equipped with the thermal management assembly 30. In addition, the flexible connection between the two first tubes 311 helps reduce the size of the thermal management assembly 30, making it easier to use in small spaces.

[0196] In some embodiments, the thermal management component 32 includes a docking portion 321 , which is plugged into and mated with the first tube 311 .

[0197] The docking portion 321 is provided with an inlet and outlet for the heat exchange medium to enter the thermal management component 32. After the conducting pipe 31 connects the two thermal management components 32, the heat exchange medium can flow between the two thermal management components 32 through the conducting pipe 31.

[0198] A docking portion 321 may be provided at both ends of the heat management component 32 in the length direction. The docking portions 321 at both ends of the heat management component 32 in the length direction may be plugged into the first tube 311 of different conducting tubes 31 .

[0199] In some embodiments, the docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32 may be inserted into the first tube 311 to achieve plug-in fit between the docking portion 321 and the first tube 311, thereby achieving connection between the conducting tube 31 and the thermal management component 32 (as shown in FIG. 11 ).

[0200] In some embodiments, the first tube 311 may be inserted into the docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32 to achieve plug-in fit between the docking portion 321 and the first tube 311, thereby achieving connection between the conductive tube 31 and the thermal management component 32 (as shown in FIG. 21 ).

[0201] The docking portion 321 of the heat management component 32 and the first tube 311 are plugged and matched, making the connection between the heat management component 32 and the conducting tube 31 more convenient.

[0202] The embodiment of the present application further provides a battery 100 , which includes a battery cell 10 and the thermal management component 30 provided in any of the above embodiments, wherein the battery cell 10 is disposed between two adjacent thermal management components 32 .

[0203] The thermal management assembly 30 provided in any of the above embodiments has good sealing performance and reliability, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the battery 100 equipped with the thermal management assembly 30 .

[0204] An embodiment of the present application further provides an electric device, which includes the battery 100 provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0205] The battery 100 provided in any of the above embodiments has good reliability, which is beneficial to improving the power reliability and power stability of the electrical equipment powered by the battery 100.

[0206] The present application also provides a conducting tube 31, which includes a second tube 312 and two first tubes 311. The second tube 312 includes an integrally formed first flexible segment 3121, a second flexible segment 3122, and a third flexible segment 3123. The second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 are connected to the ends of the first flexible segment 3121. The first flexible segment 3121 is a corrugated tube. The two first tubes 311 are respectively sleeved around the outer circumferences of the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123.

[0207] The present application also provides a conducting tube 31, which includes a second tube 312, an annular protrusion 314, a limiting portion 313 and two first tubes 311. The second tube 312 includes an integrally formed first flexible segment 3121, a second flexible segment 3122 and a third flexible segment 3123. The second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123 are connected to the two ends of the first flexible segment 3121. The first flexible segment 3121 is a corrugated tube. The two first tubes 311 are respectively sleeved on the outer circumference of the second flexible segment 3122 and the third flexible segment 3123. The outer circumference of the two first tubes 311 is provided with an annular protrusion 314, and each first tube 311 is connected to the limiting portion 313 through the corresponding annular protrusion 314. Each limiting portion 313 extends from the annular protrusion 314 to the outer side of the first flexible segment 3121.

[0208] The present application also provides a conducting tube 31, comprising a second tube 312, an annular protrusion 314, a hook portion 315, and two first tubes 311. The second tube 312 is a first flexible section 3121. The first flexible section 3121 is a bellows. The two first tubes 311 are connected to both ends of the first flexible section 3121. An annular protrusion 314 is provided on the outer circumference of each first tube 311. Each first tube 311 is connected to a hook portion 315 via a corresponding annular protrusion 314. Each hook portion 315 extends from the annular protrusion 314 in the axial direction of the first tube 311 in a direction away from the first flexible section 3121. The hook portion 315 is configured to engage with the docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32 to prevent the first tube 311 from axially disengaging from the docking portion 321. The outer circumference of the first tube 311 is provided with two annular sealing grooves 3113 extending along the circumference of the first tube 311.

[0209] The present application also provides a conducting tube 31, which includes a second tube 312, an annular protrusion 314, a stopper 313, a hook 315, and two first tubes 311. The second tube 312 is a first flexible section 3121. The first flexible section 3121 is a bellows. The two first tubes 311 are connected to both ends of the first flexible section 3121. An annular protrusion 314 is provided on the outer circumference of each first tube 311. Each first tube 311 is connected to a hook 315 and a limiting section 313 via a corresponding annular protrusion 314. The limiting section 313 and hook 315 on each first tube 311 are respectively provided on opposite sides of the annular protrusion 314 along the axial direction of the first tube 311. Each hook 315 extends from the annular protrusion 314 in the axial direction of the first tube 311 in a direction away from the first flexible section 3121. The hook portion 315 is configured to engage with the docking portion 321 of the thermal management component 32 to prevent the first tube 311 from detaching from the docking portion 321 in the axial direction of the first tube 311. Each stopper 313 extends from the annular protrusion 314 to the outer periphery of the first flexible segment 3121. Each stopper 313 extends from the annular protrusion 314 to the outside of the first flexible segment 3121. The outer circumferential surface of the first tube 311 is provided with two annular sealing grooves 3113 extending along the circumference of the first tube 311.

[0210] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present application and are not intended to limit the present application. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and variations are possible. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present application shall be included within the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

1. A conducting tube for connecting two thermal management components, wherein: include: Two first tubes, respectively used to be connected to the two thermal management components; The second tube connects the two first tubes, the second tube comprises a first flexible section, and the first flexible section is located between the two first tubes. 2 . The conducting tube according to claim 1 , wherein the second tube further comprises a second flexible segment and a third flexible segment, and the two first tubes are respectively sleeved on the outside of the second flexible segment and the third flexible segment.

3. The conducting tube according to claim 2, wherein: The first flexible segment, the second flexible segment and the third flexible segment are integrally formed.

4. The conducting tube according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first flexible section is a bellows.

5. The conducting tube according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The thermal management component has a docking portion; At least one of the first tubes includes a connecting section and a flared section, the first flexible section is located at one end of the connecting section, the flared section is connected to the other end of the connecting section, and the flared section is configured to guide the docking portion to dock with the connecting section.

6. The conducting tube according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The first tubes are provided with limiting portions, and the limiting portions of the two first tubes are used to prevent the two first tubes from approaching each other when they abut against each other along the axial direction of the first tubes.

7. The via according to claim 6, wherein: The limiting portion is at least partially located outside the first flexible section.

8. The conducting tube according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The first tube is provided with a plurality of limiting portions, and the plurality of limiting portions are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first flexible section.

9. The conducting tube according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein: The limiting portion is connected to one end of the first tube close to the first flexible section.

10. The conducting tube according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The thermal management component has a docking portion, and the docking portion is used to dock with the first tube; The first tube is provided with a hook portion, and the hook portion is used to hook and cooperate with the docking portion to prevent the first tube from being separated from the docking portion along the axial direction of the first tube.

11. The via according to claim 10, wherein: The first tube is provided with a plurality of the hook portions, and the plurality of the hook portions are arranged at intervals on the outer side of the first tube along the circumferential direction of the first tube.

12. The conducting tube according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: An annular protrusion is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the first tube, and the hook portion and the limiting portion are respectively provided on both sides of the annular protrusion along the axial direction of the first tube, and the limiting portions of the two first tubes are used to prevent the two first tubes from approaching each other when they abut against each other along the axial direction of the first tube.

13. The conducting tube according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: A sealing groove is provided on the outer circumference surface or the inner circumference surface of the first tube, and the sealing groove is used to accommodate a sealing member.

14. A thermal management component, wherein: include: The conducting tube according to any one of claims 1 to 13; There are multiple heat management components, and the conducting pipe connects two of the heat management components.

15. The thermal management assembly of claim 14, wherein: The thermal management component includes a docking portion, and the docking portion is plug-fitted with the first tube.

16. A battery, wherein: include: Battery cells; According to the thermal management assembly of claim 14 or 15, the battery cell is arranged between two adjacent thermal management components.

17. An electrical device, wherein: Comprising a battery according to claim 16.

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