Thermal management component, battery, and electric device

Abstract

The present application discloses a thermal management component, a battery, and an electric device. The thermal management component comprises a heat exchange tube and a first current collector; the heat exchange tube has a first end; a first flow channel used for accommodating a heat exchange medium is formed in the first current collector; the first flow channel has a first inner surface and a second inner surface which are oppositely arranged in a first direction; the first end is inserted into the first flow channel, and the first end is attached to at least one of the first inner surface and the second inner surface. Therefore, the size of the thermal management component in the first direction can be optimized, thereby reducing the space occupied by the thermal management component in the first direction, improving the energy density of a battery using the thermal management component.

Description

Thermal management components, batteries and electrical equipment

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202410008408.7, filed on January 2, 2024, entitled “Thermal Management Components, Batteries and Electrical Equipment,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to the field of batteries, and more specifically, to a thermal management component, a battery, and an electrical device. Background Art

[0004] With the development of new energy technologies, batteries are being used more and more widely. Batteries have high energy density, high reliability, long service life, and are environmentally friendly to the social environment. They have been widely used in passenger cars, commercial vehicles, electric bicycles, heavy trucks, energy storage facilities, battery swap stations, engineering manufacturing, smart devices, etc. At the same time, they also promote technological development and research in communication terminals, medical devices, energy development, etc.

[0005] Thermal management components are core components of batteries and are often used to regulate battery cell performance. However, their placement consumes internal battery space, reducing energy density. Reducing the space occupied by thermal management components and increasing battery energy density is a pressing issue in battery technology.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] The embodiments of the present application provide a thermal management component, a battery, and an electrical device, which can effectively optimize the size of the thermal management component and improve the energy density of the battery using the thermal management component.

[0008] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a thermal management component, which includes a heat exchange tube and a first fluid collector, the heat exchange tube having a first end; a first flow channel for accommodating a heat exchange medium is formed inside the first fluid collector, the first flow channel having a first inner surface and a second inner surface arranged opposite to each other along a first direction; wherein the first end is inserted into the first flow channel, and the first end is in contact with at least one of the first inner surface and the second inner surface.

[0009] In the above technical solution, the first end is in contact with at least one of the first inner surface and the second inner surface. This structure can reduce the size requirement of the first current collector in the first direction, optimize the size of the thermal management component in the first direction, reduce the space occupied by the thermal management component in the first direction, and improve the energy density of the battery using the thermal management component.

[0010] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube is a flat tube, the first end portion has a first outer surface and a second outer surface arranged opposite to each other along the first direction, the first direction is parallel to the thickness direction of the heat exchange tube, the first inner surface is in contact with the first outer surface, and / or the second inner surface is in contact with the second outer surface.

[0011] In the above technical solution, the heat exchange tube is a flat tube, and the first direction is parallel to the thickness direction of the heat exchange tube, which optimizes the size of the heat exchange tube in the first direction and can reduce the space occupied by the heat exchange tube in the first direction.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first current collector includes a first plate and a second plate stacked along the first direction, a first groove is formed on the side of the first plate facing the second plate, the second plate covers the first groove to form the first flow channel, the first inner surface is the bottom wall of the first groove, and the second inner surface is the surface of the second plate forming the first flow channel.

[0013] In the above technical solution, the first current collector includes a first plate body and a second plate body stacked along a first direction, which can reduce the difficulty of preparing the first flow channel and reduce the difficulty of preparing the first current collector.

[0014] In some embodiments, the second plate is a flat plate.

[0015] In the above technical solution, the second plate is a flat plate, which can reduce the difficulty of preparing the second plate and further reduce the difficulty of preparing the first current collector.

[0016] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube also includes a body, the first end portion is arranged at one end of the body, the body has a third outer surface in the first direction, the second plate body has a fourth outer surface facing away from the first plate body, and the third outer surface is coplanar with the fourth outer surface.

[0017] In the above technical solution, the third outer surface and the fourth outer surface are coplanar, which can improve the consistency of the interface of the thermal management component.

[0018] In some embodiments, a cross-sectional area of ​​the first end portion is smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​the body, and a step is formed between an outer circumferential surface of the first end portion and an outer circumferential surface of the body.

[0019] In the above technical solution, a step is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the first end and the outer peripheral surface of the main body, so that along the first direction, the size of the main body is larger than the size of the first end, so that the third outer surface and the fourth outer surface are coplanar, thereby improving the consistency of the interface of the thermal management component.

[0020] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube further includes a first bending portion, and the first end portion is connected to the body through the first bending portion.

[0021] In the above technical solution, the first end is connected to the main body through the first bending portion so that the third outer surface and the fourth outer surface are coplanar, which has a simple structure and reduces the difficulty of preparing the heat exchange tube.

[0022] In some embodiments, a first sealing portion is formed between the first end portion and the first current collector, and the first sealing portion is disposed around an outer circumference of the first end portion.

[0023] In the above technical solution, a first sealing portion is formed between the first end portion and the first current collector. The first sealing portion can reduce the possibility of leakage of the heat exchange medium from between the first end portion and the first current collector, thereby improving the reliability of the thermal management component.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first end portion is welded to the first current collector to form a first welding portion, and the first welding portion is the first sealing portion.

[0025] In the above technical solution, the first end portion is welded to the first current collector to form a first welding portion. The first welding portion can improve the connection stability between the first end portion and the first current collector and the sealing performance between the first end portion and the first current collector, reduce the risk of heat exchange medium leakage, and thus improve the structural strength and reliability of the thermal management component.

[0026] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube has a second end opposite to the first end, and the thermal management component also includes a second current collector, a second flow channel is formed inside the second current collector, and the second flow channel has a third inner surface and a fourth inner surface arranged opposite to each other along the first direction; wherein, the second end is inserted into the second flow channel, and the second end is in contact with at least one of the third inner surface and the fourth inner surface.

[0027] In the above technical solution, the second end is fitted with at least one of the third inner surface and the fourth inner surface. This structure can reduce the size requirement of the second current collector in the first direction, further optimize the size of the thermal management component in the first direction, reduce the space occupied by the thermal management component in the first direction, and improve the energy density of the battery using the thermal management component.

[0028] In some embodiments, the second current collector includes a third plate and a fourth plate stacked along the first direction, a second groove is formed on the side of the third plate facing the fourth plate, the fourth plate covers the second groove to form the second flow channel, the third inner surface is the bottom wall of the second groove, and the fourth inner surface is the surface of the fourth plate forming the second flow channel.

[0029] In the above technical solution, the second current collector includes a third plate and a fourth plate stacked along the first direction, which can reduce the difficulty of preparing the second flow channel and the difficulty of preparing the second current collector.

[0030] In some embodiments, a plurality of heat exchange tubes are provided, and the plurality of heat exchange tubes are spaced apart along the second direction. Each heat exchange tube extends along the third direction, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0031] In the above technical solution, a plurality of heat exchange tubes are provided, which is beneficial to improving the heat exchange efficiency of the thermal management component.

[0032] In some embodiments, there are S heat exchange tubes, and from one side of the second direction to the other side, they are the 1st heat exchange tube to the Sth heat exchange tube; the Nth heat exchange tube and the N+1th heat exchange tube are connected through the second flow channel, and the Mth heat exchange tube and the M+1th heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel; wherein N is an odd number, M is an even number, S≥N+1, S≥M+1.

[0033] In the above technical solution, when the dimension in the second direction remains constant, the Nth heat exchange tube and the N+1th heat exchange tube are connected via the second flow channel, and the Mth heat exchange tube and the M+1th heat exchange tube are connected via the first flow channel, which facilitates the arrangement of the heat exchange tubes. This can increase the number of heat exchange tubes arranged and improve the heat exchange efficiency of the thermal management component.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first heat exchange tube and the Sth heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel.

[0035] In the above technical solution, the first heat exchange tube and the Sth heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel, which makes the heat exchange path arrangement more flexible and reduces the difficulty of arranging the heat exchange path.

[0036] In some embodiments, at least one of the first current collector and the second current collector is provided with a medium inlet and outlet, and the medium inlet and outlet are in communication with the first flow channel or the second flow channel.

[0037] In the above technical solution, a medium inlet and outlet are provided to facilitate the input of heat exchange medium into the thermal management component or the extraction of heat exchange medium from the thermal management component, thereby facilitating the circulation of heat exchange medium and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the thermal management component.

[0038] In some embodiments, the length of the first end portion is L, satisfying 2 mm ≤ L ≤ 20 mm.

[0039] In the above technical solution, the length of the first end is between 2 mm and 20 mm, which optimizes the depth of the heat exchange tube inserted into the first flow channel, so that the first collector and the heat exchange tube have a good insertion depth, the connection stability between the first collector and the heat exchange tube is high, and the first end uses less material, which is conducive to cost control.

[0040] In some embodiments, 3 mm ≤ L ≤ 15 mm.

[0041] In the above technical solution, the length of the first end portion is between 3 mm and 15 mm, which further optimizes the depth of the heat exchange tube inserted into the first flow channel, and the thermal management component has high structural strength and low cost.

[0042] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery, which includes a battery cell provided by any embodiment of the first aspect.

[0043] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an electric device, which includes the battery provided in the embodiment of the second aspect, and the battery is used to power the electric device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0047] FIG2 is an exploded schematic diagram of a battery according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0048] FIG3 is an exploded schematic diagram of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0049] FIG4 is a schematic structural diagram of a thermal management component according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0050] FIG5 is a cross-sectional view taken along AA of FIG4 in some embodiments of the present application;

[0051] FIG6 is an exploded schematic diagram of a thermal management component according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0052] FIG7 is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a thermal management component according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0053] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the heat exchange tube and the first current collector according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0054] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of the assembly of heat exchange tubes and the first current collector according to other embodiments of the present application;

[0055] FIG10 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along CC of FIG4 in some embodiments of the present application;

[0056] FIG11 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along AA in FIG4 according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0057] FIG12 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along AA of FIG4 in accordance with some other embodiments of the present application;

[0058] FIG13 is a schematic diagram of an exploded view of batteries according to other embodiments of the present application.

[0059] Icons: 30-thermal management component; 31-heat exchange tube; 311-body; 3111-third outer surface; 312-first end; 3121-first outer surface; 3122-second outer surface; 3123-step; 3124-accommodation groove; 313-second end; 314-first bend; 32-first collector; 321-first plate; 3211-first groove; 3212-third groove; 322-second plate; 3221-fourth outer surface; 323-first flow channel; 3231-first inner surface; 3232-second inner surface; 33-second collector; 331-third plate Body; 3311-second groove; 332-fourth plate; 333-second flow channel; 3331-third inner surface; 3332-fourth inner surface; 34-first sealing portion; 341-sealing ring; 342-first welding portion; 35-first medium inlet and outlet; 36-second medium inlet and outlet; 10-battery cell; 11-end cover; 12-electrode assembly; 13-shell; 20-box; 21-first part; 22-second part; 23-accommodation space; 1000-vehicle; 100-battery; 200-motor; 300-controller; Z-first direction; X-second direction; Y-third direction.

[0060] The drawings are not drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] To make the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0062] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meanings as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application belongs. The terms used in the specification of this application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit this application. The terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof in the specification and claims of this application and the above-mentioned drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. The terms "first" and "second" in the specification and claims of this application or the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order or a primary-secondary relationship.

[0063] References to "embodiments" in this application mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it constitute an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive of other embodiments.

[0064] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "connect," and "attached" should be understood broadly. For example, they may refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they may refer to direct connections, indirect connections through an intermediary, or internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of these terms in this application based on specific circumstances.

[0065] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, "multiple" means more than two; the terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating directions or positional relationships, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific direction, be constructed and operated in a specific direction, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on this application. In addition, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance. "Vertical" is not strictly perpendicular, but is within the allowable error range. "Parallel" is not strictly parallel, but is within the allowable error range.

[0066] The term "and / or" in this application simply describes an association between related objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0067] The term "or" in this application is merely a description of the association relationship between associated objects, indicating that two relationships may exist. For example, A or B can represent two situations: A exists alone, and B exists alone.

[0068] In the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals represent the same components, and for the sake of brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components in different embodiments are omitted. It should be understood that the thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the various components in the embodiments of this application, as well as the overall thickness, length, width, and other dimensions of the integrated device shown in the drawings are merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0069] The term "plurality" used in this application refers to two or more (including two).

[0070] In this application, battery cells may include, but are not limited to, lithium-ion secondary batteries, lithium-ion primary batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, or magnesium-ion batteries. Battery cells include, but are not limited to, cylindrical, flat, rectangular, or other shapes. Battery cells are generally packaged in cylindrical, prismatic, and soft-pack shapes.

[0071] A battery cell consists of an electrode assembly and an electrolyte. The electrode assembly is composed 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 electrodes. Metal ions (such as lithium ions) are inserted and removed from the positive and negative electrodes. The separator is placed between the positive and negative electrodes to prevent short circuits between the positive and negative electrodes while allowing active ions to pass through.

[0072] The positive electrode sheet includes a positive electrode collector and a positive electrode active material layer. The positive electrode active material layer is coated on the surface of the positive electrode collector. The positive electrode collector not coated with the positive electrode active material layer protrudes from the positive electrode collector coated with the positive electrode active material layer. The positive electrode collector not coated with the positive electrode active material layer serves as the positive electrode tab.

[0073] Taking lithium-ion batteries as an example, the positive electrode active material can be lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium or lithium manganese oxide, etc. The positive electrode current collector can be a metal foil or a composite current collector. For example, as the metal foil, aluminum with a silver-plated surface, stainless steel with a silver-plated surface, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, carbon electrode, carbon, nickel or titanium, etc. can be used. The composite current collector may include a polymer material base layer and a metal layer. The composite current collector can be formed by forming a metal material (aluminum, aluminum alloy, nickel, nickel alloy, titanium, titanium alloy, silver and silver alloy, etc.) on a polymer material substrate (such as a substrate of polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyethylene, etc.).

[0074] The negative electrode sheet includes a negative electrode collector and a negative electrode active material layer. The negative electrode active material layer is coated on the surface of the negative electrode collector. The negative electrode collector not coated with the negative electrode active material layer protrudes from the negative electrode collector coated with the negative electrode active material layer. The negative electrode collector not coated with the negative electrode active material layer serves as the negative electrode tab.

[0075] The negative electrode current collector can be a metal foil or a composite current collector. For example, the metal foil can be silver-plated aluminum, silver-plated stainless steel, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, carbon electrodes, carbon, nickel, or titanium. The negative electrode active material can be carbon or silicon, for example.

[0076] To reduce the risk of tabs fusing due to high current, multiple positive tabs are stacked together, and multiple negative tabs are stacked together. The separator can be made of materials such as PP (polypropylene) or PE (polyethylene). Furthermore, the electrode assembly can be either a wound or laminated structure.

[0077] 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 a battery pack. A battery generally includes a casing for enclosing one or more battery cells. The casing can reduce the effects of liquids or other foreign matter on the charging or discharging of the battery cells.

[0078] In some embodiments, the battery may be a battery module. When there are multiple battery cells, the multiple battery cells are arranged and fixed to form a battery module.

[0079] In some embodiments, the battery may be a battery pack, which includes a case and battery cells, wherein the battery cells or battery modules are housed in the case.

[0080] In some embodiments, multiple battery cells can be first integrated into at least one battery module, which is then installed in a housing to form a battery pack. In this embodiment, auxiliary structural members such as crossbeams can be installed between the battery modules to improve the stability of the battery module installation in the housing.

[0081] In some embodiments, the box body can be used as a part of the chassis structure of the vehicle. For example, part of the box body can become at least a part of the floor of the vehicle, or part of the box body can become at least a part of the cross beam and longitudinal beam of the vehicle.

[0082] In some embodiments, the battery may be an energy storage device, including an energy storage container, an energy storage cabinet, and the like.

[0083] When the temperature of a battery cell is too low, the migration speed of the metal ions within the cell is slow, the ability of the metal ions to embed into the electrode is also reduced, and the charge and discharge capacity is reduced. However, when the temperature of the battery cell is too high, it can easily lead to thermal runaway, resulting in risks such as bulging and explosion. Therefore, appropriate temperature design is one of the keys to ensuring the battery has good charge and discharge capacity and reliability.

[0084] Therefore, the battery generally also includes a thermal management component. The thermal management component is used to contain a fluid to regulate the temperature of multiple battery cells so that the battery is within a suitable temperature range and has better charge and discharge capabilities and higher reliability. The fluid here can be a liquid or a gas, and regulating the temperature refers to heating or cooling multiple battery cells. The fluid can be called a heat exchange medium. In the case of cooling or lowering the temperature of the battery cells, the thermal management component is used to contain a cooling fluid to lower the temperature of multiple battery cells. At this time, the thermal management component can also be called a cooling component, a cooling system or a cooling plate, etc., and the fluid it contains can also be called a cooling medium or a cooling fluid, more specifically, it can be called a coolant or a cooling gas. In addition, the thermal management component can also be used for heating to increase the temperature of multiple battery cells, which is not limited in the embodiments of the present application. Optionally, the fluid can be circulating to achieve a better temperature regulation effect. Optionally, the fluid can be water, a mixture of water and ethylene glycol, or air, etc.

[0085] In related technologies, thermal management components include a harmonica tube and collectors located at both ends of the tube. To facilitate installation of the harmonica tube within the collector, the collector typically has mounting holes and corresponding structural features, such as snap-fit ​​structures. These structural features increase the thickness of the collector, making it larger and occupying more space. This reduces the proportion of battery cells per unit volume and lowers the battery's energy density.

[0086] In view of this, to address the issue of thermal management components reducing battery energy density, the present application provides a technical solution. In this solution, the thermal management component includes a heat exchange tube and a first current collector. A first flow channel for accommodating a heat exchange medium is formed within the first current collector. The first flow channel has a first inner surface and a second inner surface disposed opposite each other along a first direction. The first end portion is inserted into the first flow channel and abuts at least one of the first and second inner surfaces. In such a thermal management component, the first end portion abuts at least one of the first and second inner surfaces, which can reduce the required size of the first current collector in the first direction, reduce the size of the thermal management component in the first direction, reduce the space occupied by the thermal management component in the first direction, and improve the energy density of a battery using the thermal management component.

[0087] The technical solutions disclosed in the embodiments of the present application are applicable to, but not limited to, batteries and electrical equipment using batteries.

[0088] Electrically powered equipment can include vehicles, mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and power tools. Vehicles can be fuel-powered, gas-powered, or new energy vehicles. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, or extended-range vehicles. Spacecraft include aircraft, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft. Electric toys include fixed or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys. Power tools include metal cutting power tools, grinding power tools, assembly power tools, and railway power tools, such as electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, impact drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers.

[0089] For the convenience of description, the following embodiments are described by taking the electric device as a vehicle 1000 as an example.

[0090] Please refer to FIG1 , which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle 1000 according to some embodiments of the present application. A battery 100 is disposed inside the vehicle 1000 . The battery 100 can be disposed 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 .

[0091] The vehicle 1000 may further include a controller 300 and a motor 200 . The controller 300 is used to control the battery 100 to supply power to the motor 200 , for example, to meet the power requirements of the vehicle 1000 during startup, navigation, and driving.

[0092] In some embodiments of the present application, the battery 100 can not only serve as the operating power source of the vehicle 1000, but also serve as the driving power source of the vehicle 1000, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.

[0093] In some embodiments, please refer to FIG. 2 , which is an exploded schematic diagram of a battery 100 according to some embodiments of the present application. The battery 100 includes multiple battery cells 10 and a thermal management component 30 . The multiple battery cells 10 can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid configuration. Hybrid configuration refers to multiple battery cells 10 connected in both series and parallel configurations. The thermal management component 30 is used to regulate the temperature of the battery cells 10.

[0094] In some embodiments, the battery 100 may further include a busbar component (not shown), and the multiple battery cells 10 may be electrically connected via the busbar component to achieve series connection, parallel connection, or mixed connection of the multiple battery cells 10 .

[0095] The busbar component may be a metal conductor, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, aluminum alloy, etc.

[0096] In some embodiments, the battery 100 may further include a housing 20 for accommodating the battery cells 10. The housing 20 may include a first portion 21 and a second portion 22, which overlap to define a receiving space 23 for accommodating the battery cells 10. The connection between the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 may be sealed by a sealing element (not shown), such as a sealing ring or sealant.

[0097] The first portion 21 and the second portion 22 can have various shapes, such as a cuboid, a cylinder, etc. The first portion 21 can be a hollow structure with one side open, and the second portion 22 can also be a hollow structure with one side open. The open side of the second portion 22 covers the open side of the first portion 21, thereby forming the box 20 with the accommodating space 23. Of course, the first portion 21 can also be a hollow structure with one side open, and the second portion 22 can be a plate-like structure. The second portion 22 covers the open side of the first portion 21, thereby forming the box 20 with the accommodating space 23.

[0098] Please refer to FIG. 3 , which is an exploded schematic diagram of a battery cell 10 according to some embodiments of the present application. The battery cell 10 may include a housing 13 , an electrode assembly 12 , an end cap 11 and other functional components.

[0099] The housing 13 is a component for accommodating the electrode assembly 12. The housing 13 can be a hollow structure with an opening at one end, or a hollow structure with openings at both ends. The housing 13 can be made of a variety of materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, and aluminum alloys. The housing 13 can have a variety of shapes, such as a cylinder or a rectangular parallelepiped. For example, in FIG3 , the housing 13 is a rectangular parallelepiped.

[0100] The end cap 11 is a component that covers the opening of the shell 13 to isolate the internal environment of the battery cell 10 from the external environment. The end cap 11 covers the opening of the shell 13, and the end cap 11 and the shell 13 together define a sealed space for accommodating the electrode assembly 12, electrolyte and other functional components. The shape of the end cap 11 can be adapted to the shape of the shell 13. For example, the shell 13 is a rectangular parallelepiped structure, and the end cap 11 is a rectangular plate structure adapted to the shell 13. For another example, the shell 13 is a cylindrical structure, and the end cap 11 is a circular plate structure adapted to the shell 13. The material of the end cap 11 can also be various. For example, the end cap 11 can be a metal material, such as copper, iron, aluminum, steel, aluminum alloy, etc. The material of the end cap 11 can be the same as or different from the material of the shell 13.

[0101] In the battery cell 10, there can be one or two end caps 11. If the housing 13 is a hollow structure with an opening at one end, one end cap 11 is provided. If the housing 13 is a hollow structure with openings at both ends, two end caps 11 are provided, one covering each opening of the housing 13.

[0102] The present embodiment provides a thermal management component 30 that can reduce the size requirement of the thermal management component 30, reduce space occupation, and improve the energy density of the battery 100 using the thermal management component 30. The specific structure of the thermal management component 30 is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0103] 4 and 5 , FIG. 4 is a schematic structural diagram of the thermal management component 30 according to some embodiments of the present application; and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along AA of FIG. 4 according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0104] 4 and 5 , an embodiment of the present application provides a thermal management component 30, comprising a heat exchange tube 31 and a first current collector 32. The heat exchange tube 31 has a first end 312. A first flow channel 323 for accommodating a heat exchange medium is formed within the first current collector 32. The first flow channel 323 has a first inner surface 3231 and a second inner surface 3232 that are oppositely disposed along a first direction Z. The first end 312 is inserted into the first flow channel 323 and abuts against at least one of the first inner surface 3231 and the second inner surface 3232.

[0105] Among them, the heat exchange tube 31 is a hollow tubular structure. The heat exchange tube 31 is a component with a flow channel inside to accommodate a heat medium and capable of heat exchange with other components. For example, the heat exchange tube 31 can be in contact with the battery cell 10 in the battery 100 for heat exchange to adjust the temperature of the battery cell 10.

[0106] The cross-section of the heat exchange tube 31 can be rectangular, square, oval, or irregular, etc. As long as it can contact with other components and exchange heat. The number of heat exchange tubes 31 can be one or more, and multiple heat exchange tubes 31 can improve heat exchange efficiency.

[0107] The first end portion 312 is the structure of the heat exchange tube 31 for connecting with the first current collector 32. The first end portion 312 is the end of the heat exchange tube 31 in the direction of extension. The portion of the heat exchange tube 31 inserted into the first flow channel 323 is the first end portion 312. The heat exchange tube 31 can extend along a straight line, a curve, or a broken line.

[0108] The first current collector 32 is a component for collecting the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange tubes 31. Understandably, the first flow channel 323 can communicate with the flow channel in the heat exchange tubes 31, and the heat exchange medium can flow between the heat exchange tubes 31 and the first current collector 32.

[0109] The first current collector 32 can be configured as a rectangle, circle, ellipse or special shape, etc., as long as the first flow channel 323 is formed inside to accommodate the heat exchange medium. Optionally, the first current collector 32 is configured as a rectangular plate.

[0110] The first flow channel 323 has a first inner surface 3231 and a second inner surface 3232 arranged opposite to each other along the first direction Z. It can be understood that the first inner surface 3231 and the second inner surface 3232 are formed inside the first current collector 32, and the first flow channel 323 can be defined by multiple inner surfaces. In this case, the first inner surface 3231 and the second inner surface 3232 are part of the inner surface that defines the first flow channel 323.

[0111] The first end portion 312 is inserted into the first flow channel 323 , so that the heat exchange tube 31 is connected to the first current collector 32 , thereby achieving communication between the flow channel inside the heat exchange tube 31 and the first flow channel 323 .

[0112] The first end portion 312 is in contact with at least one of the first inner surface 3231 and the second inner surface 3232. This means that the first end portion 312 can be in contact with the first inner surface 3231, the first end portion 312 can be in contact with the first inner surface 3231, or the first end portion 312 can be in contact with both the first inner surface 3231 and the second inner surface 3232 (as shown in FIG5 ). Contact means that the first end portion 312 is in surface contact with the first inner surface 3231 and / or the second inner surface 3232.

[0113] When the size of the first end portion 312 remains constant, the first end portion 312 fits against the first inner surface 3231, and the distance between the first end portion 312 and the first inner surface 3231 decreases, thereby reducing the size requirement of the first current collector 32 in the first direction Z. When the size of the first end portion 312 remains constant, the first end portion 312 fits against the second inner surface 3232, and the distance between the first end portion 312 and the second inner surface 3232 decreases, thereby also reducing the size requirement of the first current collector 32 in the first direction Z.

[0114] In this embodiment, the thermal management component 30 includes a heat exchange tube 31 and a first current collector 32. The heat exchange tube 31 has a first end 312. A first flow channel 323 for accommodating a heat exchange medium is formed within the first current collector 32. The first flow channel 323 has a first inner surface 3231 and a second inner surface 3232 that are opposite each other along a first direction Z. The first end 312 is inserted into the first flow channel 323 and is in contact with at least one of the first inner surface 3231 and the second inner surface 3232. This structure can reduce the required size of the first current collector 32 in the first direction Z, optimize the size of the thermal management component 30 in the first direction Z, reduce the space occupied by the thermal management component 30 in the first direction Z, and improve the energy density of the battery 100 using the thermal management component 30.

[0115] In some embodiments, the first fluid collector 32 can not only collect heat exchange medium, but also perform heat exchange with other components like the heat exchange tube 31 to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the thermal management component 30 .

[0116] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube 31 is a flat tube, and the first end 312 has a first outer surface 3121 and a second outer surface 3122 arranged opposite to each other along a first direction Z, the first direction Z is parallel to the thickness direction of the heat exchange tube 31, the first inner surface 3231 is in contact with the first outer surface 3121, and / or the second inner surface 3232 is in contact with the second outer surface 3122.

[0117] It can be understood that the heat exchange tube 31 is a flat structure with a rectangular cross section.

[0118] The heat exchange tube 31 is a flat tube, and the first direction Z is parallel to the thickness direction of the heat exchange tube 31 , which optimizes the size of the heat exchange tube 31 in the first direction Z and can reduce the space occupied by the heat exchange tube 31 in the first direction Z.

[0119] FIG6 is a schematic diagram of an exploded view of the thermal management component 30 according to some embodiments of the present application; FIG7 is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the thermal management component 30 according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0120] First refer to Figures 6 and 7, and then combine them with Figure 4. In some embodiments, the first current collector 32 includes a first plate body 321 and a second plate body 322 stacked along a first direction Z, and a first groove 3211 is formed on the side of the first plate body 321 facing the second plate body 322. The second plate body 322 covers the first groove 3211 to form a first flow channel 323. The first inner surface 3231 is the bottom wall of the first groove 3211, and the second inner surface 3232 is the surface of the second plate body 322 that forms the first flow channel 323.

[0121] It can be understood that the first current collector 32 is formed by stacking a first plate 321 and a second plate 322 , and the first plate 321 and the second plate 322 together define a first flow channel 323 .

[0122] The first plate 321 and the second plate 322 can be connected by bonding, welding, or the like.

[0123] The first groove 3211 may be configured as a rectangular groove, a U-shaped groove, or the like.

[0124] The first groove 3211 can be formed by stamping, or can be formed by cutting. Optionally, the first groove 3211 is formed by stamping, which has high forming efficiency and high utilization rate of the first plate body 321.

[0125] The second inner surface 3232 is the surface of the second plate body 322 that forms the first flow channel 323. It can be understood that the side of the second plate body 322 facing the first plate body 321 is the large surface, and the opening in the large surface used to cover the first groove 3211 to define a part of the first flow channel 323 is the second inner surface 3232 defined in the embodiment of the present application.

[0126] In this embodiment, the first current collector 32 includes a first plate body 321 and a second plate body 322 stacked along a first direction Z. A first groove 3211 is provided on the first plate body 321. The orientation and position of the first groove 3211 can be arranged as needed, so that the arrangement of the first flow channel 323 is more flexible, which can reduce the difficulty of adjusting the flow path of the heat exchange medium, reduce the difficulty of preparing the first flow channel 323, and reduce the difficulty of preparing the first current collector 32.

[0127] In some other embodiments, the first current collector 32 may not include the first plate 321 and the second plate 322. For example, the first current collector 32 is formed by extrusion and is an integrally formed structure.

[0128] 6 , in some embodiments, the second plate 322 is a flat plate.

[0129] The second plate 322 being a flat plate can reduce the difficulty of preparing the second plate 322 , and further reduce the difficulty of preparing the first current collector 32 .

[0130] In other embodiments, the second plate 322 may not be a flat plate. For example, the first plate 321 and the second plate 322 may respectively define corresponding grooves, and the first flow channel 323 is defined by the grooves defined in the first plate 321 and the second plate 322 .

[0131] 8 and 9 , FIG8 is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the heat exchange tubes 31 and the first current collector 32 in some embodiments of the present application; FIG9 is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the heat exchange tubes 31 and the first current collector 32 in other embodiments of the present application.

[0132] In some embodiments, the heat exchange tube 31 also includes a body 311, a first end portion 312 is arranged at one end of the body 311, the body 311 has a third outer surface 3111 in the first direction Z, the second plate body 322 has a fourth outer surface 3221 facing away from the first plate body 321, and the third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 are coplanar.

[0133] It can be understood that the third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 are coplanar and the third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 are located on the same side of the thermal management component 30 .

[0134] The third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 being coplanar can improve the consistency of the interface of the thermal management component 30 .

[0135] The coplanarity of the third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 improves the consistency of the interface of the thermal management component 30, thereby increasing the contact area between the thermal management component 30 and other components, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency. For example, the thermal management component 30 is used to regulate the temperature of the battery cells 10 in the battery 100. The coplanarity of the third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 allows both the third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 to be used for heat exchange with the battery cells 10, thereby increasing the contact area between the battery cells 10 and the thermal management component 30 and improving heat exchange efficiency.

[0136] 8 , in some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first end portion 312 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the body 311 , and a step 3123 is formed between the outer circumference of the first end portion 312 and the outer circumference of the body 311 .

[0137] It can be understood that compared with the main body 311 , the first end portion 312 is a constricted portion.

[0138] The first end portion 312 may be integrally formed with the body 311 , or the first end portion 312 may be connected to the body 311 by bonding, welding, or the like.

[0139] The cross-sectional area of ​​the first end portion 312 refers to the area of ​​the enclosed region defined by the outer contour of the cross section of the first end portion 312. It should be understood that the cross section of the first end portion 312 is a closed annular structure, and the hollowed-out region in the middle of the cross section does not constitute the cross-sectional area of ​​the first end portion 312.

[0140] A step 3123 is formed between the outer circumference of the first end 312 and the outer circumference of the body 311. The step 3123 can abut against the end surface of the second plate 322. The step 3123 can extend along the circumference of the body 311 or only extend along the circumference of the body 311.

[0141] In this embodiment, a step 3123 is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the first end 312 and the outer peripheral surface of the main body 311, so that along the first direction Z, the size of the main body 311 is larger than the size of the first end 312, so that the third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 are coplanar, thereby improving the consistency of the interface of the thermal management component 30.

[0142] 9 , in some embodiments, the heat exchange tube 31 further includes a first bending portion 314 , and the first end portion 312 is connected to the body 311 through the first bending portion 314 so that the third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 are coplanar, thereby improving the consistency of the interface of the thermal management component 30 .

[0143] That is, one end of the first bending portion 314 is connected to the body 311, and the other end is connected to the first end portion 312. The first bending portion 314, the first end portion 312 and the body 311 can be integrally formed.

[0144] Exemplarily, as shown in FIG. 9 , along the first direction Z, the first end portion 312 and the body 311 are staggered so that the third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 are coplanar.

[0145] The first end portion 312 is connected to the body 311 through the first bending portion 314 so that the third outer surface 3111 and the fourth outer surface 3221 are coplanar. This simplifies the structure and reduces the difficulty in preparing the heat exchange tube 31 .

[0146] 10 , 11 and 12 , FIG10 is a partial cross-sectional view of FIG4 along CC of some embodiments of the present application; FIG11 is a partial cross-sectional view of FIG4 along AA of some embodiments of the present application; and FIG12 is a partial cross-sectional view of FIG4 along AA of other embodiments of the present application.

[0147] 10 and 11 , in some embodiments, a first sealing portion 34 is formed between the first end portion 312 and the first current collector 32 , and the first sealing portion 34 is disposed around an outer circumference of the first end portion 312 .

[0148] The first sealing portion 34 is a structure that seals the gap between the outer circumference of the first end portion 312 and the first current collector 32. A gap may exist between the outer circumference of the first end portion 312 and the first current collector 32, posing a risk of heat exchange medium leakage. Therefore, the first sealing portion 34 is provided between the outer circumference of the first end portion 312 and the first current collector 32 for sealing.

[0149] The first sealing portion 34 can be a weld, the first sealing portion 34 can also be a colloid, the first sealing portion 34 can also be a sealing ring 341. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the outer peripheral surface of the first end portion 312 is provided with a circle of accommodating grooves 3124, and the accommodating grooves 3124 are used to accommodate the sealing ring 341. The first end portion 312 is locked to the first current collector 32 by a locking member (not shown in the figure), and the locking member can be a bolt.

[0150] A first sealing portion 34 is formed between the first end portion 312 and the first current collector 32 . The first sealing portion 34 can reduce the possibility of heat exchange medium leaking from between the first end portion 312 and the first current collector 32 , thereby improving the reliability of the thermal management component 30 .

[0151] 12 , in some embodiments, the first end portion 312 is welded to the first current collector 32 to form a first welding portion 342 , which serves as the first sealing portion 34 .

[0152] It can be understood that the outer circumference of the first end portion 312 is welded to the first current collector 32. The first welding portion 342 is a weld formed between the first end portion 312 and the first current collector 32.

[0153] The first end portion 312 and the first current collector 32 may be welded to each other in a manner including, but not limited to, laser welding, arc welding, friction stir welding, etc. Welding may be performed from the outside of the first current collector 32 to penetrate the first current collector 32 so as to weld the first current collector 32 to the first end portion 312 .

[0154] The first end portion 312 is welded to the first current collector 32 to form a first welding portion 342. The first welding portion 342 can improve the connection stability between the first end portion 312 and the first current collector 32 and the sealing performance between the first end portion 312 and the first current collector 32, reduce the risk of heat exchange medium leakage, and thus improve the structural strength and reliability of the thermal management component 30.

[0155] 4 and 5 , in some embodiments, the heat exchange tube 31 has a second end 313 opposite to the first end 312, and the thermal management component 30 further includes a second current collector 33, a second flow channel 333 being formed inside the second current collector 33, and the second flow channel 333 has a third inner surface 3331 and a fourth inner surface 3332 arranged opposite to each other along the first direction Z; wherein the second end 313 is inserted into the second flow channel 333, and the second end 313 is in contact with at least one of the third inner surface 3331 and the fourth inner surface 3332.

[0156] As can be understood, the heat exchange tube 31 has a first end 312 and a second end 313 opposite each other. The second end 313 is the other end of the heat exchange tube 31 in the direction of extension and is used to plug into the second current collector 33. The first end 312 is inserted into the first flow channel 323, connecting the heat exchange tube 31 and the first current collector 32, thereby establishing communication between the flow channel inside the heat exchange tube 31 and the first flow channel 323. The second end 313 is inserted into the second flow channel 333, connecting the heat exchange tube 31 and the second current collector 33, thereby establishing communication between the flow channel inside the heat exchange tube 31 and the second flow channel 333.

[0157] The first current collector 32 and the second current collector 33 are respectively disposed at both ends of the heat exchange tube 31 . The first end 312 of the heat exchange tube 31 is inserted into the first flow channel 323 , and the second end 313 of the heat exchange tube 31 is inserted into the second flow channel 333 .

[0158] The second current collector 33 is also a component for collecting the heat exchange medium in the heat exchange tubes 31. The second flow channel 333 can communicate with the flow channel in the heat exchange tubes 31, and the heat exchange medium can flow between the heat exchange tubes 31 and the second current collector 33.

[0159] The second current collector 33 can be configured as a rectangle, circle, ellipse or special shape, etc., as long as a second flow channel 333 is formed inside to accommodate the heat exchange medium. Optionally, the second current collector 33 is configured as a rectangular plate.

[0160] The second flow channel 333 has a third inner surface 3331 and a fourth inner surface 3332 which are arranged relative to each other along the first direction Z. It can be understood that the third inner surface 3331 and the fourth inner surface 3332 are formed inside the second current collector 33, and the second flow channel 333 can be defined by multiple inner surfaces. In this case, the third inner surface 3331 and the fourth inner surface 3332 are part of the inner surface that defines the second flow channel 333.

[0161] The second end portion 313 is in contact with at least one of the third inner surface 3331 and the fourth inner surface 3332, which means that the second end portion 313 can be in contact with the third inner surface 3331, the second end portion 313 can be in contact with the fourth inner surface 3332, or the second end portion 313 can be in contact with both the third inner surface 3331 and the fourth inner surface 3332 (as shown in FIG. 5 ).

[0162] When the size of the second end 313 remains constant, the second end 313 fits against the third inner surface 3331, and the distance between the second end 313 and the third inner surface 3331 is reduced, thereby reducing the size requirement of the second current collector 33 in the first direction Z. When the size of the second end 313 remains constant, the first end 312 fits against the fourth inner surface 3332, and the distance between the second end 313 and the fourth inner surface 3332 is reduced, thereby also reducing the size requirement of the second current collector 33 in the first direction Z.

[0163] In this embodiment, the thermal management component 30 also includes a second current collector 33, the second end 313 is inserted into the second flow channel 333, and the second end 313 is in contact with at least one of the third inner surface 3331 and the fourth inner surface 3332. This structure can reduce the size requirement of the second current collector 33 in the first direction Z, further optimize the size of the thermal management component 30 in the first direction Z, reduce the space occupied by the thermal management component 30 in the first direction Z, and improve the energy density of the battery 100 using the thermal management component 30.

[0164] In some embodiments, the second fluid collector 33 can not only collect heat exchange medium, but also perform heat exchange with other components like the heat exchange tube 31 to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the thermal management component 30 .

[0165] 5 and 6 , in some embodiments, the second current collector 33 includes a third plate 331 and a fourth plate 332 stacked along a first direction Z, a second groove 3311 is formed on a side of the third plate 331 facing the fourth plate 332, the fourth plate 332 covers the second groove 3311 to form a second flow channel 333, the third inner surface 3331 is the bottom wall of the second groove 3311, and the fourth inner surface 3332 is the surface of the fourth plate 332 forming the second flow channel 333.

[0166] It is understood that the second current collector 33 is formed by stacking a third plate 331 and a fourth plate 332, which together define a second flow channel 333. The third plate 331 and the fourth plate 332 can be connected by bonding, welding, or the like.

[0167] The second groove 3311 may be configured as a rectangular groove, a U-shaped groove, or the like.

[0168] The second groove 3311 can be formed by stamping, or can be formed by cutting. Optionally, the second groove 3311 is formed by stamping, which has high forming efficiency and high utilization rate of the third plate.

[0169] The fourth inner surface 3332 is the surface of the fourth plate body 332 that forms the second flow channel 333. It can be understood that the side of the fourth plate body 332 facing the third plate body 331 is the large surface, and the opening in the large surface used to cover the second groove 3311 to define a part of the second flow channel 333 is the fourth inner surface 3332 defined in the embodiment of the present application.

[0170] In this embodiment, the second current collector 33 includes a third plate 331 and a fourth plate 332 stacked along the first direction Z, which can reduce the difficulty of preparing the second flow channel 333 and the difficulty of preparing the second current collector 33 .

[0171] In some embodiments, the fourth plate 332 is a flat plate.

[0172] 4 , 6 and 7 , in some embodiments, a plurality of heat exchange tubes 31 are provided, and the plurality of heat exchange tubes 31 are arranged at intervals along the second direction X. Each heat exchange tube 31 extends along the third direction Y, and the first direction Z, the second direction X and the third direction Y are perpendicular to each other.

[0173] A plurality of heat exchange tubes 31 are provided, which is beneficial to improving the heat exchange efficiency of the thermal management component 30 .

[0174] 4 , in some embodiments, S heat exchange tubes 31 are provided, and from one side of the second direction X to the other side, they are the 1st heat exchange tube to the Sth heat exchange tube; the Nth heat exchange tube and the N+1th heat exchange tube are connected through the second flow channel 333, and the Mth heat exchange tube and the M+1th heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323; wherein N is an odd number, M is an even number, S≥N+1, S≥M+1.

[0175] Here, S is any natural number greater than or equal to 4, and the value of S can be 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, etc. The first heat exchange tube and the Sth heat exchange tube are the two outermost heat exchange tubes 31 in the second direction X, the Nth heat exchange tube and the N+1th heat exchange tube are adjacent heat exchange tubes 31, and the Mth heat exchange tube 31 and the M+1th heat exchange tube 31 are adjacent heat exchange tubes 31.

[0176] For example, as shown in FIG4 and FIG7 , there are 14 heat exchange tubes 31 , and S is 14. The 14 heat exchange tubes 31 are arranged in sequence along the second direction X, and the frontmost heat exchange tube in the second direction X is defined as the 1st heat exchange tube, and the rearmost heat exchange tube is defined as the 14th heat exchange tube.

[0177] Specifically, the first heat exchange tube and the second heat exchange tube are connected through the second flow channel 333; the third heat exchange tube and the fourth heat exchange tube are connected through the second flow channel 333; the fifth heat exchange tube and the sixth heat exchange tube are connected through the second flow channel 333; the seventh heat exchange tube and the eighth heat exchange tube are connected through the second flow channel 333; the ninth heat exchange tube and the tenth heat exchange tube are connected through the second flow channel 333; the eleventh heat exchange tube and the twelfth heat exchange tube are connected through the second flow channel 333; and the thirteenth heat exchange tube and the fourteenth heat exchange tube are connected through the second flow channel 333.

[0178] Similarly, the second heat exchange tube and the third heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323; the fourth heat exchange tube and the fifth heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323; the sixth heat exchange tube and the seventh heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323; the eighth heat exchange tube and the ninth heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323; the tenth heat exchange tube and the eleventh heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323; and the twelfth heat exchange tube and the thirteenth heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323.

[0179] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 7, the first plate body 321 is provided with a plurality of first grooves 3211, and the third plate body 331 is provided with a plurality of second grooves 3311. The plurality of first grooves 3211 are arranged at intervals along the second direction X, and the plurality of second grooves 3311 are arranged at intervals along the second direction X. Along the second direction X, the first grooves 3211 and the second grooves 3311 are staggered.

[0180] Every two heat exchange tubes 31 correspond to a first groove 3211 , the adjacent second heat exchange tube and third heat exchange tube are installed in one first groove 3211 , the adjacent fourth heat exchange tube and fifth heat exchange tube are installed in another first groove 3211 , and so on.

[0181] Every two heat exchange tubes 31 correspond to one second groove 3311 , the adjacent first heat exchange tube and second heat exchange tube are installed in one second groove 3311 , the adjacent third heat exchange tube and fourth heat exchange tube are installed in another second groove 3311 , and so on.

[0182] The 14 heat exchange tubes 31 are connected by the first groove 3211 and the second groove 3311 so that the heat exchange medium can flow between the first flow channel 323, the heat exchange tube 31 and the second flow channel 333, that is, the heat exchange medium can flow alternately between the first groove 3211 and the second groove 3311.

[0183] In the thermal management component 30 provided in the embodiment of the present application, when the dimension in the second direction X is constant, the Nth heat exchange tube 31 and the N+1th heat exchange tube 31 are connected via the second flow channel 333, and the Mth heat exchange tube 31 and the M+1th heat exchange tube 31 are connected via the first flow channel 323, thereby facilitating the arrangement of the heat exchange tubes 31. This can increase the number of heat exchange tubes 31 arranged and improve the heat exchange efficiency of the thermal management component 30.

[0184] In some embodiments, the first heat exchange tube and the Sth heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323.

[0185] It can be understood that, along the arrangement direction of the heat exchange tubes 31 , the first heat exchange tube and the Sth heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323 .

[0186] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 7, a third groove 3212 is also formed on the side of the first plate body 321 facing the second plate body 322, and the second plate body 322 covers the opening of the third groove 3212 and the opening of the first groove 3211 to form a first flow channel 323. The first heat exchange tube and the fourteenth heat exchange tube are installed in the third groove 3212 so that the first heat exchange tube and the fourteenth heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323.

[0187] The first heat exchange tube and the third heat exchange tube are connected through the first flow channel 323, which makes the arrangement of the heat exchange path more flexible and reduces the difficulty of arranging the heat exchange path.

[0188] In some embodiments, at least one of the first current collector 32 and the second current collector 33 is provided with a medium inlet and outlet, and the medium inlet and outlet are in communication with the first flow channel 323 or the second flow channel 333 .

[0189] That is, the medium inlet and outlet may be provided on the first current collector 32 , the medium inlet and outlet may be provided on the second current collector 33 , or both the first current collector 32 and the second current collector 33 may be provided with the medium inlet and outlet.

[0190] For example, as shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 6 , the second current collector 33 is provided with two medium inlets and outlets, namely a first medium inlet and outlet 35 and a second medium inlet and outlet 36 .

[0191] The medium inlet and outlet may be an opening for the heat exchange medium to enter, or an opening for the heat exchange medium to flow out. For example, the first medium inlet and outlet 35 is an inlet, and the second medium inlet and outlet 36 is an outlet.

[0192] The medium inlet and outlet are provided to facilitate the input of heat exchange medium into the thermal management component 30 or the extraction of heat exchange medium from the thermal management component 30 , thereby facilitating the circulation of the heat exchange medium and improving the heat exchange efficiency of the thermal management component 30 .

[0193] 5 , in some embodiments, the length of the first end portion 312 is L, satisfying 2 mm ≤ L ≤ 20 mm.

[0194] The length of the first end portion 312 refers to the dimension of the first end portion 312 in the extension direction of the heat exchange tube 31 . The length L of the first end portion 312 is the depth of the heat exchange tube 31 inserted into the first flow channel 323 .

[0195] For example, the length of the first end portion 312 may be 2 mm, 4 mm, 6 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 14 mm, 17 mm, 18 mm, 19 mm, 20 mm, etc. Since it is impossible to exhaustively list all values ​​between 2 mm and 20 mm, several intermediate values ​​are listed here as examples. It is understood that any intermediate value can be used as the length L of the first end portion 312.

[0196] The length of the first end portion 312 is between 2 mm and 20 mm, which optimizes the depth of the heat exchange tube 31 inserted into the first flow channel 323, so that the first collector 32 and the heat exchange tube 31 have a good insertion depth, the connection stability between the first collector 32 and the heat exchange tube 31 is high, and the first end portion 312 uses less material, which is conducive to cost control.

[0197] In some embodiments, 3 mm ≤ L ≤ 15 mm.

[0198] For example, the length of the first end portion 312 may be 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, etc. Since it is impossible to exhaustively list all values ​​between 3 mm and 15 mm, several intermediate values ​​are listed here as examples. It is understood that any intermediate value can be used as the length L of the first end portion 312.

[0199] The length of the first end portion 312 is between 3 mm and 15 mm, which further optimizes the depth of the heat exchange tube 31 inserted into the first flow channel 323 . The heat management component 30 has high structural strength and low cost.

[0200] In some embodiments, the length of the second end portion 313 is between 2 mm and 20 mm.

[0201] 13 , which is an exploded schematic diagram of a battery 100 according to another embodiment of the present application, another embodiment of the present application provides a battery 100 including the thermal management component 30 described above.

[0202] Continuing with FIG13 , the battery 100 further includes a housing 20 and a battery cell 10. The housing 20 includes a first portion 21 and a second portion 22. The first portion 21 is a cover plate. The first portion 21 and the second portion 22 together define a receiving space 23 for accommodating the battery cell 10. A thermal management component 30 is disposed between the wall of the housing 20 and the battery cell 10.

[0203] An embodiment of the present application further provides an electric device, which includes the above-mentioned battery 100, and the battery 100 is used to provide electric energy to the electric device.

[0204] The embodiment of the present application further provides a thermal management component 30 , which includes a plurality of heat exchange tubes 31 , a first current collector 32 , and a second current collector 33 .

[0205] The plurality of heat exchange tubes 31 are arranged at intervals along the second direction X. Each heat exchange tube 31 extends along the third direction Y. The heat exchange tube 31 is a flat tube. Along the extension direction of the heat exchange tube 31 , the heat exchange tube 31 has a first end 312 and a second end 313 opposite to each other.

[0206] The first current collector 32 includes a first plate body 321 and a second plate body 322 stacked along the first direction Z. A first groove 3211 and a third groove 3212 are formed on the side of the first plate body 321 facing the second plate body 322. A plurality of first grooves 3211 are provided, and the plurality of first grooves 3211 are arranged at intervals along the second direction X. The second plate body 322 covers the first groove 3211 and the third groove 3212 to form a first flow channel 323.

[0207] The second current collector 33 includes a third plate 331 and a fourth plate 332 stacked along the first direction Z. A second groove 3311 is formed on the side of the third plate 331 facing the fourth plate 332. A plurality of second grooves 3311 are provided, and the plurality of second grooves 3311 are spaced apart along the second direction X. The fourth plate 332 covers the second grooves 3311 to form a second flow channel 333. Both the second plate 322 and the fourth plate 332 are flat plates.

[0208] Along the first direction Z, the first flow channel 323 has a first inner surface 3231 and a second inner surface 3232 that are opposite to each other. The first inner surface 3231 is the bottom wall of the first groove 3211, and the second inner surface 3232 is the surface of the second plate 322 that forms the first flow channel 323. The first end portion 312 is in contact with both the first inner surface 3231 and the second inner surface 3232.

[0209] Along the first direction Z, the second flow channel 333 has a third inner surface 3331 and a fourth inner surface 3332 that are opposite to each other. The third inner surface 3331 is the bottom wall of the second groove 3311, and the fourth inner surface 3332 is the surface of the fourth plate 332 that forms the second flow channel 333. The second end portion 313 is in contact with both the third inner surface 3331 and the fourth inner surface 3332.

[0210] There are 14 heat exchange tubes 31, and they are arranged from one side of the second direction X to the other side, in order from the 1st to the 14th heat exchange tubes. Along the second direction X, the first grooves 3211 and the second grooves 3311 are staggered. Every two heat exchange tubes 31 correspond to a first groove 3211, and the first ends 312 of the second to 13th heat exchange tubes are installed in the corresponding first groove 3211. Every two heat exchange tubes 31 correspond to a second groove 3311, and the second ends 313 of the first to 14th heat exchange tubes are installed in the corresponding second groove 3311. The first ends 312 of the first and 14th heat exchange tubes are installed in the third groove 3212.

[0211] The fourth plate 332 is provided with a first medium inlet and outlet 35 and a second medium inlet and outlet 36. The first medium inlet and outlet 35 is an inlet, and the second medium inlet and outlet 36 is an outlet. The first medium inlet and outlet 35 is connected to one second groove 3311, and the second medium inlet and outlet 36 is connected to another second groove 3311. This provides two flow paths for the heat exchange medium. In one path, the heat exchange medium enters the heat exchange tube 31 from the first medium inlet and outlet 35, flows through the heat exchange tube 31, alternately passes through the first groove 3211 and the second groove 3311, and flows out of the second medium inlet and outlet 36. In the other path, the heat exchange medium enters the 14th heat exchange tube from the first medium inlet and outlet 35, flows through the third groove 3212 to the first heat exchange tube, alternately passes through the second groove 3311 and the first groove 3211, flows to the second medium inlet and outlet 36, and flows out of the second medium inlet and outlet 36.

[0212] 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.

[0213] The above embodiments are intended only to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations are possible. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application are intended to be within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A thermal management component, characterized in that, Comprising: A heat exchange tube having a first end; A first collector, with a first flow channel formed inside for accommodating a heat exchange medium, the first flow channel having a first inner surface and a second inner surface oppositely arranged along a first direction; Wherein, the first end is inserted into the first flow channel, and the first end is in contact with at least one of the first inner surface and the second inner surface.

2. The thermal management component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange tube is a flat tube, the first end has a first outer surface and a second outer surface oppositely arranged along the first direction, the first direction is parallel to the thickness direction of the heat exchange tube, the first inner surface is in contact with the first outer surface, and / or, the second inner surface is in contact with the second outer surface.

3. The thermal management component according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first collector includes a first plate body and a second plate body stacked along the first direction, a first groove is formed on the side of the first plate body facing the second plate body, and the second plate body covers the first groove to form the first flow channel, the first inner surface is the bottom wall of the first groove, and the second inner surface is the surface of the second plate body forming the first flow channel.

4. The thermal management component according to claim 3, wherein The second plate body is a flat plate.

5. The thermal management component according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The heat exchange tube further includes a body, the first end is arranged at one end of the body, the body has a third outer surface in the first direction, the second plate body has a fourth outer surface facing away from the first plate body, and the third outer surface and the fourth outer surface are coplanar.

6. The thermal management component according to claim 5, wherein, The cross-sectional area of the first end is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the body, and a step is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the first end and the outer peripheral surface of the body.

7. The thermal management component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The heat exchange tube further includes a first bending portion, and the first end is connected to the body through the first bending portion.

8. The thermal management component according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, A first sealing portion is formed between the first end and the first collector, and the first sealing portion is arranged around the outer peripheral surface of the first end.

9. The thermal management component according to claim 8, wherein, The first end and the first collector are welded to form a first welded portion, and the first welded portion is the first sealing portion.

10. The thermal management component according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The heat exchange tube has a second end opposite to the first end, and the heat management component further includes: A second collector, with a second flow channel formed inside the second collector, the second flow channel having a third inner surface and a fourth inner surface oppositely arranged along the first direction; Wherein, the second end is inserted into the second flow channel, and the second end is in contact with at least one of the third inner surface and the fourth inner surface.

11. The thermal management component according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second collector includes a third plate body and a fourth plate body stacked along the first direction, a second groove is formed on the side of the third plate body facing the fourth plate body, and the fourth plate body covers the second groove to form the second flow channel, the third inner surface is the bottom wall of the second groove, and the fourth inner surface is the surface of the fourth plate body forming the second flow channel.

12. The thermal management component according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, A plurality of heat exchange tubes are provided, and the plurality of heat exchange tubes are arranged at intervals along a second direction, each heat exchange tube extends along a third direction, and the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other in pairs.

13. The thermal management component according to claim 12, wherein There are S heat exchange tubes, and from one side to the other side in the second direction, they are the first heat exchange tube to the Sth heat exchange tube in sequence; The Nth heat exchange tube and the (N + 1)th heat exchange tube are communicated through the second flow channel, and the Mth heat exchange tube and the (M + 1)th heat exchange tube are communicated through the first flow channel; where N is an odd number, M is an even number, S ≥ N + 1, and S ≥ M + 1.

14. The thermal management component according to claim 13, wherein, The first heat exchange tube and the Sth heat exchange tube are communicated through the first flow channel.

15. The thermal management component according to any one of claims 10 - 14, characterized in that, At least one of the first current collector and the second current collector is provided with a medium inlet and outlet, and the medium inlet and outlet is communicated with the first flow channel or the second flow channel.

16. The thermal management component according to any one of claims 1-15, characterized in that, The length of the first end portion is L, satisfying 2 mm ≤ L ≤ 20 mm.

17. The thermal management component according to claim 16, wherein, 3 mm ≤ L ≤ 15 mm.

18. A battery, characterized in that, Comprising the heat management component according to any one of claims 1-17.

19. An electrical device, characterized in that, Comprising the battery according to claim 18, the battery being used to provide electric energy for the electrical equipment.

Images