Battery cell, battery, and electrical device
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/CN2024/080752
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-03-08
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-02
AI Technical Summary
The wiring of batteries is difficult, and existing technologies are unable to effectively reduce the complexity of battery wiring and improve the reliability of battery cells.
By designing a structure including a shell, an electrode assembly, a first electrode terminal and a connector in the battery cell, the connector electrically connects the terminal body to the wall and has a fuse protection function. The insulator isolates the terminal body and the connector, reducing the wiring difficulty of the battery cell and protecting the battery in the event of a short circuit.
It simplifies the battery wiring process, improves the reliability of battery cells, reduces the risk of battery fire and explosion, and extends battery life.
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Figure CN2024080752_02102025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Battery cells, batteries and electrical equipment Technical Field
[0001] The present application relates to the field of batteries, and more specifically, to a battery cell, a battery, and an electrical device. Background Art
[0002] Batteries are widely used in new energy applications, such as electric vehicles and new energy vehicles. These have become a new trend in the automotive industry. The development of battery technology requires consideration of multiple design factors, including performance parameters such as energy density, cycle life, discharge capacity, and charge / discharge rate. Furthermore, the difficulty of battery wiring must be considered. Currently, battery wiring presents significant challenges.
[0003] Summary of the Invention
[0004] The purpose of the embodiments of the present application is to provide a battery cell, a battery, and an electrical device, which aims to improve the problem of difficult wiring of batteries in related technologies.
[0005] In the first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery cell, which includes a shell, an electrode assembly, a first electrode terminal and a connector, wherein the shell has a wall portion; the electrode assembly is accommodated in the shell, and the electrode assembly has a first electrode tab; the first electrode terminal includes a terminal body, an insulator and a connector, the terminal body is electrically connected to the first electrode tab, the connector is connected to the wall portion, the terminal body is at least partially located between the wall portion and the connector, and the insulator is at least partially located between the terminal body and the connector; the connector connects the connector and the terminal body to achieve electrical connection between the terminal body and the wall portion, and the connector is configured to be able to provide fuse protection for the electrode assembly.
[0006] In the above technical solution, the battery cell installs the terminal body on the wall through a connector, which is simple and convenient to install. The insulator connects the terminal body and the connector. In the absence of a connector to connect the terminal body and the connector, the insulator can insulate the terminal body and the connector, so that the first pole ear is insulated from the wall. The battery cell connects the terminal body and the connector by setting a connector, so that the terminal body and the wall are electrically connected, so that the shell can output the electrical energy of the electrode assembly. The battery management system can be connected to the shell of the battery cell, thereby realizing the monitoring of the battery cell, greatly reducing the difficulty of wiring. In addition, the connector has a fuse protection function. When a short circuit occurs in the battery cell, the connector can melt by itself, thereby protecting the electrode assembly, reducing the risk of fire and explosion of the battery cell, and helping to improve the reliability of the battery cell.
[0007] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the terminal body includes a main body portion and a limiting portion, the limiting portion protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the main body portion, the connecting body includes a first flange, and along the thickness direction of the wall portion, the limiting portion is at least partially located between the first flange and the wall portion, and the connecting member is located between the limiting portion and the first flange and connects the limiting portion and the first flange.
[0008] In the above technical solution, by arranging the connector between the limiting portion and the first flange, the risk of interference between the connector and other components is reduced, so that the connector can stably connect the limiting portion and the first flange, which is beneficial to improving the life of the battery cell.
[0009] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the insulator covers the first flange, and the insulator is provided with an accommodating cavity for accommodating the connecting member.
[0010] In the above technical solution, by making the insulator cover the first flange, it is not only possible to protect the first flange, but also possible to better connect the first flange and the terminal body. The insulator is provided with a receiving cavity, and the connector is received in the receiving cavity and connects the first flange and the limiting portion to electrically connect the connector and the terminal body. By providing the receiving cavity on the insulator, on the one hand, it is convenient to avoid the connector, thereby allowing the connector to connect the limiting portion and the first flange. On the other hand, accommodating the connector in the receiving cavity can protect the connector, further reduce the risk of interference between the connector and other components, and enable the connector to stably connect the limiting portion and the first flange, which is beneficial to improving the life of the battery cell.
[0011] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the connecting body also includes a main body and a second flange, the first flange protrudes from the side of the main body close to the main body, the second flange protrudes from the side of the main body away from the main body, and the second flange is connected to the wall portion.
[0012] In the above technical solution, by providing a main body and a second flange, the second flange protruding from the side of the main body facing away from the main body, so as to facilitate connection with the wall portion via the second flange. By having the first flange protrude from the side of the main body close to the main body, the first flange can be positioned opposite the stopper, and the insulator covers the first flange and the stopper, thereby improving the connection strength between the terminal body and the connector.
[0013] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the connecting member is an elastic element, and along the thickness direction of the wall portion, two ends of the connecting member are respectively in contact with the limiting portion and the first flange.
[0014] In the above technical solution, since the connecting member is an elastic element, it can apply elastic force to the limiting portion and the first flange, so that the connecting member can be in stable contact with the limiting portion and the first flange, allowing the connecting member to be stably connected between the limiting portion and the first flange, which is beneficial to improving the life of the battery cell.
[0015] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the elastic element includes a spring.
[0016] In the above technical solution, since the deformation direction of the spring is highly controllable and has low cost, using the spring as a connecting member can not only facilitate manufacturing but also reduce manufacturing costs.
[0017] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the spring includes a first connecting part, a fuse part and a second connecting part, the fuse part connects the first connecting part and the second connecting part, the first connecting part and the second connecting part are respectively connected to the limiting part and the first flange, the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting part, and the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting part.
[0018] In the above technical solution, the first connection portion is connected to the stop portion, the second connection portion is connected to the first flange, and the fuse portion connects the first and second connection portions. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connection portion and smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connection portion. When the current passing through the fuse portion is too large, the fuse portion will automatically melt, disconnecting the first and second connection portions, thereby providing protection, reducing the risk of fire and explosion of the battery cells, and improving the reliability of the battery cells.
[0019] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the connecting body includes a second flange that is not covered by the insulator, the second flange is connected to the wall portion, and the connecting member connects the terminal body and the second flange.
[0020] In the above technical solution, the second flange is not covered by the insulator, the second flange is connected to the wall portion, and the connecting member directly connects the terminal body and the second flange to electrically connect the first electrode terminal and the wall portion. There is no need to set a accommodating cavity inside the insulator, so that the insulator can better connect the terminal body and the connecting body.
[0021] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, a receiving groove is provided on the outer surface of the insulator, and the connecting member is at least partially received in the receiving groove.
[0022] In the above technical solution, a receiving groove is provided on the outer surface of the insulator, and the connector is at least partially accommodated in the receiving groove, thereby reducing the height of the connector protruding from the outer surface of the insulator, thereby reducing the risk of interference between the connector and other components, which is beneficial to improving the life of the battery cell.
[0023] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, one end of the accommodating groove extends to the terminal body, and the other end of the accommodating groove extends to the second flange.
[0024] In the above technical solution, by extending one end of the accommodating groove to the terminal body and the other end of the accommodating groove to the second flange, the connector can be accommodated in the accommodating groove as much as possible, further reducing the height of the connector protruding from the outer surface of the insulator, thereby reducing the risk of interference between the connector and other components, which is beneficial to improving the life of the battery cell.
[0025] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, along a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the insulator, the part of the connector accommodated in the accommodating groove has a first surface closest to the outer surface of the insulator, and the minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of the insulator is A, satisfying: A ≥ 0.2 mm.
[0026] In the above technical solution, the connector is accommodated in the accommodating groove, and the minimum distance between the surface of the connector closest to the outer surface of the insulator and the outer surface of the insulator is greater than or equal to 0.2 mm. In this way, the accommodating groove can better protect the connector, reduce the risk of damage to the connector, and improve the life of the battery cell.
[0027] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, 0.5mm≤A≤1mm.
[0028] In the above technical solution, by ensuring that the minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of the insulator in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the insulator is greater than or equal to 0.5 mm, the distance between the connector and the outer surface of the insulator is greater, the connector is accommodated deeper in the accommodating groove, and the accommodating groove provides better protection for the connector. By ensuring that the minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of the insulator in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the insulator is less than or equal to 1 mm, the distance between the connector and the outer surface of the insulator is not too great, the depth of the accommodating groove is not too great, and the strength of the insulator connection between the terminal body and the connector is better. Therefore, when 0.5 mm ≤ A ≤ 1 mm, both the protection of the connector and the connection strength of the terminal body and the connector can be taken into account.
[0029] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the terminal body is provided with a card slot, the card slot is connected to one end of the accommodating slot, and a part of the connecting member is clamped in the card slot.
[0030] In the above technical solution, by providing a slot on the terminal body, the connector is locked in the slot to achieve connection with the terminal body, which is simple and convenient.
[0031] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the terminal body includes a main body portion and a limiting portion, the limiting portion protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the main body portion, the connecting body includes a first flange and a main body portion, the first flange protrudes from the side of the main body portion close to the main body portion, and the second flange protrudes from the side of the main body portion away from the main body portion, and along the thickness direction of the wall portion, the limiting portion is at least partially located between the first flange and the wall portion.
[0032] In the above technical solution, by providing a main body and a second flange, the second flange protruding from the side of the main body facing away from the main body, so as to facilitate connection with the wall portion via the second flange. By having the first flange protrude from the side of the main body close to the main body, the first flange can be positioned opposite the stopper, and the insulator covers the first flange and the stopper, thereby improving the connection strength between the terminal body and the connector.
[0033] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the first flange, the main body and the second flange are all annular.
[0034] In the above technical solution, the first flange, the main body and the second flange are all set to be ring-shaped, which is conducive to optimizing the force and reducing stress.
[0035] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the connecting part includes a first connecting part, a fuse part and a second connecting part, the fuse part connects the first connecting part and the second connecting part, the first connecting part and the second connecting part are respectively connected to the terminal body and the second flange, the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting part, and the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting part.
[0036] In the above technical solution, the first connection portion is connected to the terminal body, the second connection portion is connected to the second flange, and the fuse portion connects the first and second connection portions. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connection portion and smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connection portion. When the current passing through the fuse portion is too large, the fuse portion will automatically melt, disconnecting the first and second connection portions, thereby providing protection, reducing the risk of fire and explosion of the battery cell, and improving the reliability of the battery cell.
[0037] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the terminal body is provided with a card slot, and part of the connecting member is carded in the card slot.
[0038] In the above technical solution, by providing a slot on the terminal body, the connector is locked in the slot to achieve connection with the terminal body, which is simple and convenient.
[0039] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the insulator is injection molded between the terminal body and the connector.
[0040] In the above technical solution, by injection molding the insulator between the terminal body and the connector, the integrity of the first electrode terminal is improved and the connection strength between the terminal body and the connector is higher.
[0041] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the battery cell includes a plurality of the connecting members, and the plurality of the connecting members are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the terminal body.
[0042] In the above technical solution, by providing multiple connectors, the current capacity can be increased, allowing the battery cell to output a larger current. By distributing the multiple connectors at intervals along the circumference of the terminal body, the force around the terminal body is made more uniform.
[0043] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the terminal body is entirely located on a side of the wall portion away from the electrode assembly.
[0044] In the above technical solution, by arranging the terminal body as a whole on the side of the wall away from the electrode assembly, it is convenient to achieve electrical connection between the first electrode tab and the first electrode terminal, and to facilitate installation of the first electrode terminal.
[0045] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the connecting part includes a first connecting part, a fuse part and a second connecting part, the fuse part connects the first connecting part and the second connecting part, the first connecting part and the second connecting part are respectively connected to the terminal body and the connecting body, the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting part, and the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting part.
[0046] In the above technical solution, the first connection portion is connected to the terminal body, the second connection portion is connected to the connector, and the fuse portion connects the first and second connection portions. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connection portion and smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connection portion. When the current passing through the fuse portion is too large, the fuse portion will automatically melt, disconnecting the first and second connection portions, thereby providing protection, reducing the risk of fire and explosion of the battery cell, and improving the reliability of the battery cell.
[0047] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the battery cell includes an insulating member, and the insulating member is coated on the fuse part.
[0048] In the above technical solution, an insulating member is provided to cover the fuse part, thereby protecting the fuse part, reducing the risk of damage to the fuse part, extending the life of the connector, and facilitating an increase in the number of cycles of the battery cell.
[0049] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the minimum flow area of the fuse is S, which satisfies: 2mm 2 ≤S≤20mm 2 .
[0050] In the above technical solution, when S≥2mm 2 When S≤20mm, the fuse part has a larger flow area, so that the battery cell can output a larger current. 2 When the battery is short-circuited, the fuse part can be melted in time to play a protective role. 2 ≤S≤20mm 2 When the battery is short-circuited, it can not only enable the battery cell to output a larger current, but also be able to fuse in time when the battery cell is short-circuited.
[0051] As an optional technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the length of the fuse portion is L, which satisfies: 0.3mm≤L≤5mm.
[0052] In the above technical solution, when L ≥ 0.3mm, the fuse has a longer length and higher resistance. When the battery cell short-circuits, it can generate a large amount of heat, causing the fuse to melt in time. When L ≤ 5mm, the fuse length is not too long and the resistance of the fuse is not too high, allowing the battery cell to output a larger current. Therefore, when 0.3mm ≤ L ≤ 5mm, the battery cell can both output a large current and melt in time when a short circuit occurs.
[0053] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the battery cell further includes a second electrode terminal, which is insulated and mounted on the wall portion. The electrode assembly further includes a second electrode tab, and the second electrode terminal is electrically connected to the second electrode tab.
[0054] In the above technical solution, the outer shell can be electrically connected to the first tab, and the second electrode terminal can be electrically connected to the second tab. The outer shell can serve as the positive or negative electrode of the battery cell, and the second electrode terminal can serve as the negative or positive electrode of the battery cell to output the battery cell's electrical energy. When both the first tab and the second tab are electrically connected to the outer shell, the battery cell short-circuits, and the connector can automatically fuse, disconnecting the first tab from the outer shell. This protects the electrode assembly, reduces the risk of fire and explosion in the battery cell, and helps improve the reliability of the battery cell.
[0055] As an optional technical solution of an embodiment of the present application, the first electrode terminal is a positive electrode terminal.
[0056] In the above technical solution, the first electrode terminal is electrically connected to the outer shell through the connecting piece, and the first electrode terminal is a positive electrode terminal, so that the outer shell is not easily corroded.
[0057] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application further provides a battery, which includes the above-mentioned battery cell.
[0058] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application further provides an electrical device, which includes the above-mentioned battery cell. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0059] 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.
[0060] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle provided in some embodiments of the present application;
[0061] FIG2 is an exploded view of a battery provided in some embodiments of the present application;
[0062] FIG3 is a schematic structural diagram of a battery cell provided in some embodiments of the present application;
[0063] FIG4 is an exploded view of a battery cell provided in some embodiments of the present application;
[0064] FIG5 is an exploded view of a wall portion and a first electrode terminal provided in some embodiments of the present application;
[0065] FIG6 is a schematic top view of a wall portion provided in some embodiments of the present application;
[0066] FIG7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG6 ;
[0067] FIG8 is an enlarged view of position B in FIG7 ;
[0068] FIG9 is a schematic structural diagram of a connector provided in some embodiments of the present application;
[0069] FIG10 is a schematic structural diagram of a connector (an insulating member covering a fusible portion) provided in some embodiments of the present application;
[0070] FIG11 is a schematic structural diagram of a wall portion provided in some embodiments of the present application;
[0071] FIG12 is an exploded view of a wall portion and a first electrode terminal provided in some other embodiments of the present application;
[0072] FIG13 is a schematic top view of a wall portion provided in some other embodiments of the present application;
[0073] FIG14 is a cross-sectional view taken along the CC axis in FIG13 ;
[0074] FIG15 is an enlarged view of position D in FIG14 ;
[0075] FIG16 is a schematic structural diagram of connectors provided in other embodiments of the present application;
[0076] FIG17 is a schematic structural diagram of a connector (insulating member covering the fuse portion) provided in other embodiments of the present application.
[0077] Icons: 10-housing; 11-first part; 12-second part; 20-battery cell; 21-housing; 211-end cover; 212-shell; 213-wall; 22-electrode assembly; 221-first pole ear; 222-second pole ear; 23-first electrode terminal; 231-terminal body; 2311-slot; 2312-main body; 2313-limiting part; 232-insulator; 2321-accommodating cavity; 2322-accommodating groove; 233-connector; 2331-first flange; 2332-main body; 2333-second flange; 25-connector; 251-first connecting part; 252-fuse part; 253-second connecting part; 254-insulator; 27-second electrode terminal; 100-battery; 200-controller; 300-motor; 1000-vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0078] 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.
[0079] 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.
[0080] 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.
[0081] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "connected," and "attached" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they may refer to direct connections, indirect connections through an intermediate medium, or internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in this application based on specific circumstances.
[0082] 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.
[0083] 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.
[0084] The term "plurality" used in this application refers to two or more (including two).
[0085] In the embodiment of the present application, the battery cell may be a secondary battery. A secondary battery refers to a battery cell that can be continuously used by activating active materials by charging after the battery cell is discharged.
[0086] The battery cells can be lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, lithium metal batteries, sodium metal batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, magnesium-ion batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lead-acid batteries, etc., which are not limited in the embodiments of the present application.
[0087] A battery cell typically includes an electrode assembly. This assembly includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. During the charge and discharge process of a battery cell, active ions (such as lithium ions) are inserted and removed between the positive and negative electrodes. The separator, placed between the positive and negative electrodes, prevents short circuits between the positive and negative electrodes while allowing the active ions to pass through.
[0088] In some embodiments, the positive electrode may be a positive electrode sheet, which may include a positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode active material disposed on at least one surface of the positive electrode current collector.
[0089] As an example, the positive electrode current collector has two surfaces facing each other in its thickness direction, and the positive electrode active material is provided on either or both of the two facing surfaces of the positive electrode current collector.
[0090] As an example, the positive electrode current collector may 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. may be used. The composite current collector may include a polymer material base layer and a metal layer. The composite current collector may 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.).
[0091] As an example, the positive electrode active material may include at least one of the following materials: lithium-containing phosphates, lithium transition metal oxides and their respective modified compounds. However, the present application is not limited to these materials, and other traditional materials that can be used as battery positive electrode active materials may also be used. These positive electrode active materials may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among them, examples of lithium-containing phosphates may include but are not limited to at least one of lithium iron phosphate (such as LiFePO4 (also referred to as LFP)), a composite material of lithium iron phosphate and carbon, lithium manganese phosphate (such as LiMnPO4), a composite material of lithium manganese phosphate and carbon, lithium iron manganese phosphate, and a composite material of lithium iron manganese phosphate and carbon. Examples of lithium transition metal oxides may include but are not limited to lithium cobalt oxide (such as LiCoO2), lithium nickel oxide (such as LiNiO2), lithium manganese oxide (such as LiMnO2, LiMn2O4), lithium nickel cobalt oxide, lithium manganese cobalt oxide, lithium nickel manganese oxide, lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (such as LiNi 1 / 3 Co 1 / 3 Mn 1 / 3O2 (also referred to as NCM 333 ), LiNi 0.5 Co 0.2 Mn 0.3 O2 (also referred to as NCM 523 ), LiNi 0.5 Co 0.25 Mn 0.25 O2 (also referred to as NCM 211 ), LiNi 0.6 Co 0.2 Mn 0.2 O2 (also referred to as NCM 622 ), LiNi 0.8 Co 0.1 Mn 0.1 O2 (also referred to as NCM 811 ), lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (such as LiNi 0.85 Co 0.15 Al 0.05 O2) and at least one of its modified compounds, etc.
[0092] In some embodiments, a positive electrode may utilize a metal foam. The metal foam may include nickel foam, copper foam, aluminum foam, alloy foam, or the like. When a metal foam is used as the positive electrode, the surface of the metal foam may or may not include a positive electrode active material. For example, a lithium source material, potassium metal, or sodium metal may be filled or / and deposited within the metal foam, where the lithium source material is lithium metal and / or a lithium-rich material.
[0093] In some embodiments, the negative electrode may be a negative electrode sheet, and the negative electrode sheet may include a negative electrode current collector.
[0094] As an example, the negative electrode current collector may be a metal foil, a metal foam, or a composite current collector. For example, as the metal foil, aluminum or stainless steel treated with silver, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, carbon electrode, nickel, or titanium, etc. may be used. The metal foam may be nickel foam, copper foam, aluminum foam, alloy foam, etc. The composite current collector may include a polymer material base layer and a metal layer. The composite current collector may be formed by forming a metal material (copper, copper 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.).
[0095] As an example, the negative electrode sheet may include a negative electrode current collector and a negative electrode active material disposed on at least one surface of the negative electrode current collector.
[0096] As an example, the negative electrode current collector has two surfaces facing each other in its thickness direction, and the negative electrode active material is provided on either or both of the two facing surfaces of the negative electrode current collector.
[0097] As an example, the negative electrode active material may adopt the negative electrode active material for battery cells that is well known in the art. As an example, the negative electrode active material may include at least one of the following materials: artificial graphite, natural graphite, soft carbon, hard carbon, silicon-based materials, tin-based materials, lithium titanate, etc. The silicon-based material may be selected from at least one of elemental silicon, silicon oxide compounds, silicon-carbon composites, silicon-nitrogen composites, and silicon alloys. The tin-based material may be selected from at least one of elemental tin, tin oxide compounds, and tin alloys. However, the present application is not limited to these materials, and other traditional materials that can be used as negative electrode active materials for batteries may also be used. These negative electrode active materials may be used alone or in combination of two or more.
[0098] In some embodiments, the material of the positive electrode current collector may be aluminum, and the material of the negative electrode current collector may be copper.
[0099] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly further includes a separator disposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode.
[0100] In some embodiments, the separator is a separator membrane. There are many types of separator membranes, and any known separator membrane with a porous structure having good chemical stability and mechanical stability can be selected.
[0101] As an example, the separator can be made of at least one of fiberglass, non-woven fabric, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinylidene fluoride. The separator can be a single-layer film or a multi-layer composite film. In the case of a multi-layer composite film, the materials of each layer can be the same or different. The separator can be a separate component positioned between the positive and negative electrodes, or it can be attached to the surfaces of the positive and negative electrodes.
[0102] In some embodiments, the separator is a solid electrolyte, which is disposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode and serves to transport ions and isolate the positive and negative electrodes.
[0103] In some embodiments, the battery cell further includes an electrolyte, which acts as a conductor of ions between the positive and negative electrodes. The electrolyte can be liquid, gel, or solid. Liquid electrolytes include an electrolyte salt and a solvent.
[0104] In some embodiments, the electrolyte salt may include at least one of lithium hexafluorophosphate, lithium tetrafluoroborate, lithium perchlorate, lithium hexafluoroarsenate, lithium bisfluorosulfonyl imide, lithium bistrifluoromethanesulfonyl imide, lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate, lithium difluorophosphate, lithium difluorooxalatoborate, lithium bisoxalatoborate, lithium difluorodioxalatophosphate, and lithium tetrafluorooxalatophosphate.
[0105] In some embodiments, solvent can comprise at least one of ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, ethyl methyl carbonate, diethyl carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, dipropyl carbonate, methylpropyl carbonate, ethylpropyl carbonate, butylene carbonate, fluoroethylene carbonate, methyl formate, methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, methyl propionate, ethyl propionate, propyl propionate, methyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, 1,4-butyrolactone, sulfolane, dimethyl sulfone, methyl ethyl sulfone and diethyl sulfone.Solvent also can be selected ether solvent.Ether solvent can comprise one or more in ethylene glycol dimethyl ether, ethylene glycol diethyl ether, diethylene glycol dimethyl ether, triethylene glycol dimethyl ether, tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether, 1,3-dioxolane, tetrahydrofuran, methyltetrahydrofuran, diphenyl ether and crown ether.
[0106] Among them, the gel electrolyte includes a skeleton network with a polymer as the electrolyte, combined with an ionic liquid-lithium salt.
[0107] Among them, solid electrolytes include polymer solid electrolytes, inorganic solid electrolytes, and composite solid electrolytes.
[0108] As an example, the polymer solid electrolyte may be polyether (polyethylene oxide), polysiloxane, polycarbonate, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinylidene fluoride, polymethyl methacrylate, a single ion polymer, polyionic liquid-lithium salt, cellulose, or the like.
[0109] As an example, the inorganic solid electrolyte may include an oxide solid electrolyte (crystalline perovskite, sodium superconducting ion conductor, garnet, amorphous LiPON film), a sulfide solid electrolyte (crystalline lithium superion conductor (lithium germanium phosphosulfide, silver germanium sulfide), amorphous sulfide) and one or more of a halide solid electrolyte, a nitride solid electrolyte and a hydride solid electrolyte.
[0110] As an example, a composite solid electrolyte is formed by adding an inorganic solid electrolyte filler to a polymer solid electrolyte.
[0111] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly is a wound structure, wherein the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet are wound into the wound structure.
[0112] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly is a laminate structure.
[0113] As an example, multiple positive electrode sheets and multiple negative electrode sheets can be provided respectively, and the multiple positive electrode sheets and the multiple negative electrode sheets can be alternately stacked.
[0114] As an example, a plurality of positive electrode sheets may be provided, and the negative electrode sheet may be folded to form a plurality of stacked folded segments, with a positive electrode sheet being sandwiched between adjacent folded segments.
[0115] As an example, both the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet are folded to form a plurality of stacked folded segments.
[0116] As an example, a plurality of separators may be provided, each of which is disposed between any adjacent positive electrode sheets or negative electrode sheets.
[0117] As an example, the separator may be provided continuously, and may be provided between any adjacent positive electrode sheets or negative electrode sheets by folding or winding.
[0118] In some embodiments, the shape of the electrode assembly can be cylindrical, flat, or polygonal.
[0119] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly is provided with tabs that can conduct current from the electrode assembly. The tabs include a positive tab and a negative tab.
[0120] In some embodiments, a battery cell may include a housing. The housing is used to encapsulate components such as the electrode assembly and the electrolyte. The housing may be a steel housing, an aluminum housing, a plastic housing (e.g., polypropylene), a composite metal housing (e.g., a copper-aluminum composite housing), or an aluminum-plastic film.
[0121] As an example, the battery cells may be cylindrical, prismatic, soft-pack or other shaped battery cells. Prismatic battery cells include but are not limited to square-shell, blade-shaped, and polygonal batteries, such as hexagonal batteries.
[0122] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of the present application refers to a single physical module including one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity.
[0123] 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.
[0124] 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.
[0125] 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.
[0126] In some embodiments, the battery may be an energy storage device, including an energy storage container, an energy storage cabinet, and the like.
[0127] Currently, market developments indicate that batteries are increasingly being 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 cars, as well as in military equipment and aerospace. As battery applications continue to expand, market demand is also growing.
[0128] The development of battery technology requires simultaneous consideration of multiple design factors, including performance parameters such as energy density, cycle life, discharge capacity, and charge / discharge rate. Furthermore, the difficulty of battery wiring must be considered. Currently, battery wiring is quite difficult.
[0129] Batteries typically contain multiple cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. To monitor the parameters of each cell, a battery management system must be electrically connected to the positive and negative electrode terminals of each cell. However, the small size of the positive and negative terminals makes wiring more difficult.
[0130] In view of this, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery cell, which includes a housing, an electrode assembly, a first electrode terminal, and a connector. The housing has a wall portion, and the electrode assembly is accommodated in the housing. The electrode assembly has a first electrode tab, and the first electrode terminal includes a terminal body, an insulator, and a connector. The terminal body is electrically connected to the first electrode tab, the connector is connected to the wall portion, the terminal body is at least partially located between the wall portion and the connector, and the insulator is at least partially located between the terminal body and the connector. The connector connects the connector and the terminal body to achieve electrical connection between the terminal body and the wall portion, and the connector is configured to provide fuse protection for the electrode assembly.
[0131] The battery cell uses a connector to mount the terminal body on the wall, making installation simple and convenient. The insulator connects the terminal body and the connector. In the absence of a connector to connect the terminal body and the connector, the insulator can insulate the terminal body and the connector, so that the first pole ear is insulated from the wall. The battery cell is connected to the terminal body and the connector by providing a connector, so that the terminal body and the wall are electrically connected, so that the shell can output the electrical energy of the electrode assembly. The battery management system can be connected to the shell of the battery cell, thereby realizing the monitoring of the battery cell, greatly reducing the difficulty of wiring. In addition, the connector has a fuse protection function. When a short circuit occurs in the battery cell, the connector can fuse itself, thereby protecting the electrode assembly, reducing the risk of fire and explosion of the battery cell, and helping to improve the reliability of the battery cell.
[0132] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of the present application are applicable to batteries and electrical devices using batteries.
[0133] Electrically powered devices may include vehicles, mobile phones, portable devices, laptop computers, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and electric tools. Spacecraft include airplanes, 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. Electric 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. The embodiments of the present application do not impose any special restrictions on the above-mentioned electrical devices.
[0134] For the convenience of description, the following embodiments are described by taking the electric device as a vehicle 1000 as an example.
[0135] 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.
[0136] 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.
[0137] Please refer to Figure 2, which is an exploded view of a battery 100 provided in some embodiments of the present application. The battery 100 includes a housing 10 and a battery cell 20, with the battery cell 20 housed within the housing 10. The housing 10 provides a storage space for the battery cell 20 and can have various structures. In some embodiments, the housing 10 can include a first portion 11 and a second portion 12, which overlap each other and together define a storage space for the battery cell 20. The second portion 12 can be a hollow structure with one end open. The first portion 11 can be a plate-like structure, with the first portion 11 overlapping the open side of the second portion 12, so that the first portion 11 and the second portion 12 together define a storage space. Alternatively, the first portion 11 and the second portion 12 can each be a hollow structure with one end open, with the open side of the first portion 11 overlapping the open side of the second portion 12. Of course, the housing 10 formed by the first portion 11 and the second portion 12 can have various shapes, such as a cylinder, a rectangular parallelepiped, etc.
[0138] In the battery 100, there may be multiple battery cells 20, and the multiple battery cells 20 may be connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid connection. A hybrid connection refers to a combination of series and parallel connections among the multiple battery cells 20. The multiple battery cells 20 may be directly connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid connection, and then the entire battery cell 20 may be housed within the housing 10. Alternatively, the battery 100 may be constructed by first connecting multiple battery cells 20 in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid connection to form a battery module, which is then connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid connection to form a complete battery module, and then housed within the housing 10. The battery 100 may also include other structures, such as a busbar assembly for electrically connecting the multiple battery cells 20.
[0139] Each battery cell 20 may be a secondary battery cell or a primary battery cell; it may also be a lithium-sulfur battery cell, a sodium-ion battery cell, or a magnesium-ion battery cell, but is not limited thereto. The battery cell 20 may be cylindrical, flat, rectangular, or in other shapes.
[0140] Please refer to Figures 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8. Figure 3 is a schematic structural diagram of a battery cell 20 provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 4 is an exploded view of a battery cell 20 provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 5 is an exploded view of a wall portion 213 and a first electrode terminal 23 provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 6 is a top schematic view of a wall portion 213 provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of position AA in Figure 6. Figure 8 is an enlarged view of position B in Figure 7. An embodiment of the present application provides a battery cell 20, the battery cell 20 includes a shell 21, an electrode assembly 22, a first electrode terminal 23 and a connector 25, the shell 21 has a wall portion 213, and the electrode assembly 22 is accommodated in the shell 21. The electrode assembly 22 has a first electrode tab 221. The first electrode terminal 23 includes a terminal body 231, an insulator 232, and a connector 233. The terminal body 231 is electrically connected to the first electrode tab 221. The connector 233 is connected to the wall portion 213. The terminal body 231 is at least partially located between the wall portion 213 and the connector 233. The insulator 232 is at least partially located between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233. A connector 25 connects the connector 233 and the terminal body 231 to achieve electrical connection between the terminal body 231 and the wall portion 213. The connector 25 is configured to provide fuse protection for the electrode assembly 22.
[0141] The battery cell 20 refers to the smallest unit constituting the battery 100 .
[0142] The housing 21 includes an end cap 211 and a shell 212. The shell 212 has an accommodation space with one end open for accommodating the electrode assembly 22. The end cap 211 is connected to the shell 212 and closes the opening.
[0143] The end cap 211 refers to a component that covers the opening of the shell 212 to isolate the internal environment of the battery cell 20 from the external environment. Without limitation, the shape of the end cap 211 can be adapted to the shape of the shell 212 to match the shell 212. Optionally, the end cap 211 can be made of a material with a certain hardness and strength (such as aluminum alloy), so that the end cap 211 is not easily deformed when squeezed and collided, so that the battery cell 20 can have a higher structural strength and the safety performance can also be improved. The material of the end cap 211 can also be a variety of materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, plastic, etc., and the embodiments of the present application do not impose any special restrictions on this.
[0144] The housing 212 is a component that cooperates with the end cap 211 to form the internal environment of the battery cell 20. This internal environment can be used to accommodate the electrode assembly 22, electrolyte, and other components. The housing 212 and the end cap 211 can be separate components. An opening can be provided in the housing 212, and the end cap 211 is placed over the opening to form the internal environment of the battery cell 20. Alternatively, the end cap 211 and the housing 212 can be integrated. Specifically, the end cap 211 and the housing 212 can form a common joint surface before other components are inserted into the housing. When the interior of the housing 212 is to be enclosed, the end cap 211 is placed over the housing 212. The housing 212 can have a variety of shapes and sizes, such as a rectangular parallelepiped, a cylindrical shape, or a hexagonal prism. Specifically, the shape of the housing 212 can be determined based on the specific shape and size of the electrode assembly 22. The housing 212 can be made of a variety of materials, such as copper, iron, aluminum, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, plastic, etc., and this embodiment of the present application does not impose any particular limitations on this.
[0145] The electrode assembly 22 is a component in the battery cell 20 where the electrochemical reaction occurs. One or more electrode assemblies 22 may be contained in the housing 21. The electrode assembly 22 is mainly formed by winding or stacking a positive electrode sheet and a negative electrode sheet, and a separator is usually provided between the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet. The parts of the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet with active materials constitute the main body of the electrode assembly 22, and the parts of the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet without active materials each constitute a tab. The positive tab and the negative tab may be located together at one end of the main body or respectively at both ends of the main body. During the charge and discharge process of the battery 100, the positive electrode active material and the negative electrode active material react with the electrolyte.
[0146] The wall portion 213 may be the end cap 211 of the housing 21, or a wall of the shell 212 of the housing 21. In some implementations, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the wall portion 213 is the end cap 211. In other embodiments, the wall portion 213 may be the bottom wall of the shell 212 opposite the end cap 211. In still other embodiments, the wall portion 213 may be a side wall of the shell 212 adjacent to and connected to the end cap 211.
[0147] The first electrode terminal 23 is used to electrically connect to the first electrode tab 221 to input or output electrical energy from the battery cell 20. The first electrode terminal 23 can be directly connected to the first electrode tab 221, for example, by being directly welded to the first electrode tab 221. The first electrode terminal 23 can also be indirectly connected to the first electrode tab 221, for example, by being connected to the first electrode tab 221 through a first current collecting member. The first current collecting member can be a sheet-like structure, for example, a transition piece.
[0148] In some embodiments, a mounting hole is provided on the wall portion 213, and the first electrode terminal 23 is disposed on the wall portion 213 and covers the mounting hole. Optionally, the battery cell 20 further includes a sealant that is sealed between the first electrode terminal 23 and the wall portion 213 to reduce the risk of electrolyte flowing out of the battery cell 20.
[0149] The first electrode tab 221 can be a positive electrode tab or a negative electrode tab. When the first electrode tab 221 is a positive electrode tab, the first electrode terminal 23 is a positive electrode terminal. When the first electrode tab 221 is a negative electrode tab, the first electrode terminal 23 is a negative electrode terminal.
[0150] The terminal body 231 is the main part of the first electrode terminal 23. The terminal body 231 is a conductive part. One end of the terminal body 231 is connected to the first electrode tab 221, and the other end of the terminal body 231 can be electrically connected to other components to output the electrical energy of the battery cell 20 or input electrical energy to the battery cell 20.
[0151] The connector 233 is a connection structure for attaching the first electrode terminal 23 to the wall portion 213. Optionally, the connector 233 is welded to the wall portion 213.
[0152] The insulator 232 connects the terminal body 231 and the connector 233. In the absence of the connector 25 connecting the terminal body 231 and the connector 233, the insulator 232 can insulate the terminal body 231 and the connector 233, thereby isolating the first tab 221 from the wall 213. For example, the insulator 232 can be made of plastic, rubber, etc.
[0153] The connector 25 is made of a conductive material and is a conductive component. The connector 25 connects the terminal body 231 and the connector 233, allowing current to pass through the terminal body 231 to the connector 233, thereby electrically connecting the first electrode tab 221 to the wall portion 213. The connector 25 is configured to provide fuse protection for the electrode assembly 22. The minimum flow area of the connector 25 is the minimum flow area within the entire path. The connector 25 can fuse when the current passing through it is excessive, thereby disconnecting the first electrode terminal 23 from the housing 21, providing short-circuit protection or overload protection.
[0154] The battery cell 20 utilizes a connector 233 to attach the terminal body 231 to the wall 213, making installation simple and convenient. An insulator 232 connects the terminal body 231 and connector 233. Without a connector 25 connecting the terminal body 231 and connector 233, the insulator 232 isolates the terminal body 231 and connector 233, insulating the first tab 221 from the wall 213. The battery cell 20 utilizes a connector 25 to connect the terminal body 231 and connector 233, creating an electrical connection between the terminal body 231 and the wall 213. This allows the housing 21 to output power from the electrode assembly 22. This allows the battery management system to connect to the housing 21 of the battery cell 20, enabling monitoring of the battery cell 20 and significantly reducing wiring complexity. Furthermore, the connector 25 provides a fuse protection function. If a short circuit occurs in the battery cell 20, the connector 25 automatically fuses, protecting the electrode assembly 22 and reducing the risk of fire or explosion in the battery cell 20, thereby improving the reliability of the battery cell 20.
[0155] 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, in some embodiments, the terminal body 231 includes a main body 2312 and a stopper 2313. The stopper 2313 protrudes from the outer circumference of the main body 2312. The connector 233 includes a first flange 2331. Along the thickness direction of the wall 213, the stopper 2313 is at least partially located between the first flange 2331 and the wall 213. The connector 25 is located between the stopper 2313 and the first flange 2331 and connects the stopper 2313 and the first flange 2331.
[0156] 4 , 5 , 7 and 8 , the thickness direction of the wall portion 213 is the X direction shown in the figures.
[0157] The main body 2312 is the main portion 2332 of the terminal body 231. Along the thickness direction of the wall 213, both ends of the main body 2312 are not covered by the insulator 232. One end of the main body 2312 is used to connect to the first terminal tab 221, and the other end of the main body 2312 is used to electrically connect to other components to output power to or input power to the battery cell 20.
[0158] The limiting portion 2313 is a convex portion protruding from the outer circumference of the main body 2312. Optionally, the insulator 232 is covered on the limiting portion 2313 so that the insulator 232 is connected to the terminal body 231.
[0159] The first flange 2331 is a flange structure on the connecting body 233. Optionally, the insulator 232 is covered on the first flange 2331 so that the insulator 232 is connected to the first flange 2331.
[0160] Along the thickness direction of the wall portion 213 , the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331 are arranged opposite to each other, and a part or all of the limiting portion 2313 is located between the first flange 2331 and the wall portion 213 .
[0161] Along the thickness direction of the wall portion 213, the connector 25 may be partially located between the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331, and partially located outside the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331. Alternatively, along the thickness direction of the wall portion 213, the connector 25 may be completely located between the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331. The connector 25 connects the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331 to achieve electrical connection between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233.
[0162] By arranging the connector 25 between the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331 , the risk of interference between the connector 25 and other components is reduced, so that the connector 25 can stably connect the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331 , which is beneficial to improving the life of the battery cell 20 .
[0163] 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 and 8 , in some embodiments, the insulator 232 covers the first flange 2331 , and the insulator 232 is provided with an accommodating cavity 2321 for accommodating the connector 25 .
[0164] The insulator 232 may cover a portion of the first flange 2331 , or the insulator 232 may completely cover the first flange 2331 .
[0165] The insulator 232 defines a receiving cavity 2321, which receives the connector 25. Along the thickness direction of the wall portion 213, one end of the receiving cavity 2321 extends to the stopper 2313 to allow the connector 25 to be connected to the stopper 2313, and the other end of the receiving cavity 2321 extends to the first flange 2331 to allow the connector 25 to be connected to the first flange 2331.
[0166] By having the insulator 232 cover the first flange 2331, it not only protects the first flange 2331 but also better connects the first flange 2331 to the terminal body 231. The insulator 232 is provided with a receiving cavity 2321. The connector 25 is accommodated in the receiving cavity 2321 and connects the first flange 2331 and the stopper 2313 to electrically connect the connector 233 to the terminal body 231. By providing the receiving cavity 2321 on the insulator 232, on the one hand, it is easier to avoid the connector 25, thereby allowing the connector 25 to connect the stopper 2313 and the first flange 2331. On the other hand, accommodating the connector 25 in the receiving cavity 2321 can protect the connector 25, further reducing the risk of interference between the connector 25 and other components, allowing the connector 25 to stably connect the stopper 2313 and the first flange 2331, which is beneficial for improving the life of the battery cell 20.
[0167] 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , and 8 , in some embodiments, the connector 233 further includes a main body 2332 and a second flange 2333 . The first flange 2331 protrudes from a side of the main body 2332 that is closer to the body 2312 , and the second flange 2333 protrudes from a side of the main body 2332 that is away from the body 2312 . The second flange 2333 is connected to the wall 213 .
[0168] The main body 2332 connects the first flange 2331 and the second flange 2333 . The first flange 2331 and the second flange 2333 protrude in opposite directions. The first flange 2331 protrudes toward the terminal body 231 , and the second flange 2333 protrudes away from the terminal body 231 .
[0169] By providing the main body 2332 and the second flange 2333, the second flange 2333 protrudes from the side of the main body 2332 facing away from the main body 2312, so as to facilitate connection with the wall portion 213 via the second flange 2333. By making the first flange 2331 protrude from the side of the main body 2332 closer to the main body 2312, the first flange 2331 can be arranged opposite the limiting portion 2313. The insulator 232 covers the first flange 2331 and the limiting portion 2313, thereby improving the connection strength between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233.
[0170] 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 and 8 , in some embodiments, the connector 25 is an elastic element, and along the thickness direction of the wall portion 213 , two ends of the connector 25 respectively abut against the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331 .
[0171] An elastic element is an element capable of elastic deformation. It can be a spring, a leaf spring, or the like. Connector 25 is an elastic element. Along the thickness of wall portion 213, its two ends abut against stopper 2313 and first flange 2331, respectively. The elastic element exerts an elastic force on both stopper 2313 and first flange 2331.
[0172] Since the connector 25 is an elastic element, it can apply elastic force to the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331, so that the connector 25 can be in stable contact with the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331, allowing the connector 25 to be stably connected between the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331, which is beneficial to improving the life of the battery cell 20.
[0173] Please refer to Figures 7, 8, 9, and 10. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connector 25 provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connector 25 (insulating member 254 covering fuse portion 252) provided in some embodiments of the present application. In some embodiments, the elastic element includes a spring.
[0174] Optionally, the elastic element is a coil spring. Along the thickness direction of the wall portion 213 , one end of the coil spring abuts against the limiting portion 2313 , and the other end of the coil spring abuts against the first flange 2331 .
[0175] Since the deformation direction of the spring is highly controllable and the cost is low, using the spring as the connecting member 25 can not only facilitate manufacturing but also reduce manufacturing costs.
[0176] Referring to Figures 7, 8, 9, and 10, in some embodiments, the spring includes a first connecting portion 251, a fuse portion 252, and a second connecting portion 253. The fuse portion 252 connects the first connecting portion 251 and the second connecting portion 253. The first connecting portion 251 and the second connecting portion 253 are respectively connected to the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting portion 251, and the minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting portion 253.
[0177] The first connecting portion 251 is the portion of the connecting member 25 connected to the terminal body 231 . Please refer to Figures 5 , 6 , 7 and 8 . In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first connecting portion 251 is connected to the limiting portion 2313 of the terminal body 231 .
[0178] The fuse 252 is a component in the connector 25 that provides a fuse protection function. When the current passing through the fuse 252 is too large, it will melt, thereby disconnecting the first connection portion 251 and the second connection portion 253, thereby disconnecting the first electrode terminal 23 and the wall portion 213, providing short circuit protection or overload protection.
[0179] The second connection portion 253 is a portion of the connector 25 for electrically connecting to the connector 233 . Referring to FIG. 5 , FIG. 6 , FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 , in the embodiment shown in the figures, the second connection portion 253 is connected to the first flange 2331 of the connector 233 .
[0180] The minimum flow area of the first connection portion 251 is the minimum cross-sectional area of the first connection portion 251 perpendicular to its extension direction. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is the minimum cross-sectional area of the fuse portion 252 perpendicular to its extension direction. The minimum flow area of the second connection portion 253 is the minimum cross-sectional area of the second connection portion 253 perpendicular to its extension direction.
[0181] The first connection portion 251 is connected to the stopper portion 2313, the second connection portion 253 is connected to the first flange 2331, and the fuse portion 252 connects the first connection portion 251 and the second connection portion 253. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connection portion 251 and smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connection portion 253. When the current passing through the fuse portion 252 is too large, the fuse portion 252 will automatically melt, disconnecting the first connection portion 251 and the second connection portion 253, thereby providing protection, reducing the risk of fire or explosion of the battery cell 20, and improving the reliability of the battery cell 20.
[0182] Please refer to Figures 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15. Figure 11 is a schematic structural diagram of the wall portion 213 provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 12 is an exploded view of the wall portion 213 and the first electrode terminal 23 provided in other embodiments of the present application. Figure 13 is a top schematic view of the wall portion 213 provided in other embodiments of the present application. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the CC position in Figure 13. Figure 15 is an enlarged view of the D position in Figure 14. In other embodiments, the connector 233 includes a second flange 2333 that is not covered by the insulator 232, the second flange 2333 is connected to the wall portion 213, and the connector 25 connects the terminal body 231 and the second flange 2333.
[0183] The second flange 2333 is the portion of the connector 233 not covered by the insulator 232. The second flange 2333 is connected to the wall 213 to mount the first electrode terminal 23 on the wall 213. The connector 25 connects the terminal body 231 and the second flange 2333 to achieve electrical connection between the first tab 221 and the wall 213.
[0184] The second flange 2333 is not covered by the insulator 232. The second flange 2333 is connected to the wall portion 213. The connecting piece 25 directly connects the terminal body 231 and the second flange 2333 to electrically connect the first electrode terminal 23 and the wall portion 213. There is no need to set a accommodating cavity 2321 inside the insulator 232, so that the insulator 232 can better connect the terminal body 231 and the connecting body 233.
[0185] 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 and 15 , in some embodiments, a receiving groove 2322 is provided on the outer surface of the insulator 232 , and the connector 25 is at least partially received in the receiving groove 2322 .
[0186] The receiving groove 2322 is a groove structure provided on the outer surface of the insulator 232. The receiving groove 2322 is recessed from the outer surface of the insulator 232 toward the center of the insulator 232. The connector 25 can be partially or completely received in the receiving groove 2322.
[0187] By setting a receiving groove 2322 on the outer surface of the insulator 232, the connector 25 is at least partially accommodated in the receiving groove 2322, and the height of the connector 25 protruding from the outer surface of the insulator 232 is reduced, thereby reducing the risk of interference between the connector 25 and other components, which is beneficial to improving the life of the battery cell 20.
[0188] 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 and 15 , in some embodiments, one end of the receiving groove 2322 extends to the terminal body 231 , and the other end of the receiving groove 2322 extends to the second flange 2333 .
[0189] The two ends of the accommodating groove 2322 extend to the terminal body 231 and the second flange 2333 respectively. The connecting member 25 is accommodated in the accommodating groove 2322. One end of the connecting member 25 extends from one end of the accommodating groove 2322 and is connected to the terminal body 231. The other end of the connecting member 25 extends from the other end of the accommodating groove 2322 and is connected to the second flange 2333.
[0190] By extending one end of the accommodating groove 2322 to the terminal body 231 and the other end of the accommodating groove 2322 to the second flange 2333, the connector 25 can be accommodated in the accommodating groove 2322 as much as possible, further reducing the height of the connector 25 protruding from the outer surface of the insulator 232, thereby reducing the risk of interference between the connector 25 and other components, which is beneficial to improving the life of the battery cell 20.
[0191] Please refer to Figures 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15. In some embodiments, along the direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the insulator 232, the portion of the connector 25 accommodated in the accommodating groove 2322 has a first surface closest to the outer surface of the insulator 232, and the minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of the insulator 232 is A, satisfying: A ≥ 0.2 mm.
[0192] The depth of the receiving groove 2322 is greater than the thickness of the connector 25 , so that the connector 25 , except for the portion connected to the terminal body 231 and the portion connected to the second flange 2333 , can be completely accommodated in the receiving groove 2322 .
[0193] The first surface is the surface of the connector 25 received in the receiving groove 2322 that is closest to the outer surface of the insulator 232 in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the insulator 232. The first surface is the surface of the connector 25 that is away from the bottom surface of the receiving groove 2322.
[0194] A represents the minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of the insulator 232 in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the insulator 232. The minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of the insulator 232 in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the insulator 232 is greater than or equal to 0.2 mm.
[0195] The minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of the insulator 232 in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the insulator 232 can be: A = 0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.7mm, 0.8mm, 0.9mm, 1mm, 1.1mm, 1.2mm, 1.3mm, 1.4mm, 1.5mm, etc.
[0196] The connector 25 is accommodated in the accommodating groove 2322, and the minimum distance between the surface of the connector 25 closest to the outer surface of the insulator 232 and the outer surface of the insulator 232 is greater than or equal to 0.2 mm. In this way, the accommodating groove 2322 can better protect the connector 25, reduce the risk of damage to the connector 25, and improve the life of the battery cell 20.
[0197] Optionally, 0.5mm≤A≤1mm.
[0198] The minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of the insulator 232 in a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the insulator 232 can be: A = 0.5mm, 0.55mm, 0.6mm, 0.65mm, 0.7mm, 0.75mm, 0.8mm, 0.85mm, 0.9mm, 0.95mm, 1mm, etc.
[0199] By ensuring that the minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of insulator 232, along a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of insulator 232, is greater than or equal to 0.5 mm, connector 25 is positioned farther from the outer surface of insulator 232, allowing connector 25 to be accommodated deeper within accommodating groove 2322. Accommodating groove 2322 provides better protection for connector 25. By ensuring that the minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of insulator 232, along a direction perpendicular to the outer surface of insulator 232, is less than or equal to 1 mm, the distance between connector 25 and the outer surface of insulator 232 is minimized, and the depth of accommodating groove 2322 is minimized, thereby improving the strength of insulator 232's connection between terminal body 231 and connector 233. Therefore, when 0.5 mm ≤ A ≤ 1 mm, both protection of connector 25 and connection strength between terminal body 231 and connector 233 are achieved.
[0200] 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 and 15 , in some embodiments, the terminal body 231 is provided with a slot 2311 , which is connected to one end of the receiving groove 2322 . A portion of the connector 25 is locked in the slot 2311 .
[0201] The latching slot 2311 is an open slot provided in the terminal body 231. Along the thickness direction of the wall portion 213, the latching slot 2311 has a first opening facing away from the wall portion 213. The first opening is used to receive the connector 25 into the latching slot 2311. The latching slot 2311 also has a second opening facing the receiving slot 2322. The second opening communicates with one end of the receiving slot 2322. A portion of the connector 25 is received in the receiving slot 2322, while a portion of the connector 25 is retained within the latching slot 2311.
[0202] By providing a slot 2311 on the terminal body 231 , the connector 25 is locked in the slot 2311 , thereby achieving connection with the terminal body 231 , which is simple and convenient.
[0203] Please refer to Figures 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15. In some embodiments, the terminal body 231 includes a main body portion 2312 and a limiting portion 2313. The limiting portion 2313 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the main body portion 2312. The connecting body 233 includes a first flange 2331 and a main body portion 2332. The first flange 2331 protrudes from the side of the main body portion 2332 close to the main body portion 2312, and the second flange 2333 protrudes from the side of the main body portion 2332 away from the main body portion 2312. Along the thickness direction of the wall portion 213, the limiting portion 2313 is at least partially located between the first flange 2331 and the wall portion 213.
[0204] By providing the main body 2332 and the second flange 2333, the second flange 2333 protrudes from the side of the main body 2332 facing away from the main body 2312, so as to facilitate connection with the wall portion 213 via the second flange 2333. By making the first flange 2331 protrude from the side of the main body 2332 closer to the main body 2312, the first flange 2331 can be arranged opposite the limiting portion 2313. The insulator 232 covers the first flange 2331 and the limiting portion 2313, thereby improving the connection strength between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233.
[0205] 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 and 15 , in some embodiments, the first flange 2331 , the main body 2332 and the second flange 2333 are all annular.
[0206] The first flange 2331 and the second flange 2333 are both annular flanges, and the main body 2332 is also annular. Optionally, the main body 2332 is in a conical cylindrical shape.
[0207] Setting the first flange 2331, the main body 2332 and the second flange 2333 in a ring shape is beneficial to optimizing the force and reducing stress.
[0208] Please refer to Figures 14, 15, 16 and 17. Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connector 25 provided in other embodiments of the present application. Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connector 25 (the insulating member 254 covers the fuse part 252) provided in other embodiments of the present application. In other embodiments, the connector 25 includes a first connecting portion 251, a fuse part 252 and a second connecting portion 253. The fuse part 252 connects the first connecting portion 251 and the second connecting portion 253. The first connecting portion 251 and the second connecting portion 253 are respectively connected to the terminal body 231 and the second flange 2333. The minimum flow area of the fuse part 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting portion 251, and the minimum flow area of the fuse part 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting portion 253.
[0209] The first connecting portion 251 is the portion of the connecting member 25 connected to the terminal body 231 . Please refer to FIG. 12 , FIG. 13 , FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 . In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first connecting portion 251 is connected to the terminal body 231 .
[0210] The fuse 252 is a component in the connector 25 that provides a fuse protection function. When the current passing through the fuse 252 is too large, it will melt, thereby disconnecting the first connection portion 251 and the second connection portion 253, thereby disconnecting the first electrode terminal 23 and the wall portion 213, providing short circuit protection or overload protection.
[0211] The second connection portion 253 is a portion of the connector 25 for electrically connecting to the connector 233 . Referring to FIG. 12 , FIG. 13 , FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 , in the embodiment shown in the figures, the second connection portion 253 is connected to the second flange 2333 of the connector 233 .
[0212] The first connection portion 251 is connected to the terminal body 231, the second connection portion 253 is connected to the second flange 2333, and the fuse portion 252 connects the first connection portion 251 and the second connection portion 253. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connection portion 251 and smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connection portion 253. When the current passing through the fuse portion 252 is too large, the fuse portion 252 will automatically melt, disconnecting the first connection portion 251 and the second connection portion 253, thereby providing protection, reducing the risk of fire or explosion of the battery cell 20, and improving the reliability of the battery cell 20.
[0213] In some embodiments, the connector 25 is a strip-shaped structure. The first connector 251 and the fuse 252 are linear structures, and the second connector 253 is an arc-shaped structure. The first connector 251 is connected to one end of the fuse 252, and the second connector 253 is connected to the other end of the fuse 252, so as to adapt to the shape of the insulator 232.
[0214] By configuring the connector 25 as a strip structure, it is convenient for the connecting portion to overlap the terminal body 231 and the second flange 2333 , thereby achieving electrical connection between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233 .
[0215] 12 , 13 , 14 and 15 , in some embodiments, the terminal body 231 is provided with a slot 2311 , and a portion of the connector 25 is locked in the slot 2311 .
[0216] By providing a slot 2311 on the terminal body 231 , the connector 25 is locked in the slot 2311 , thereby achieving connection with the terminal body 231 , which is simple and convenient.
[0217] In some embodiments, the insulator 232 is injection molded between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233 .
[0218] In the embodiment where the connector 25 is disposed between the limiting portion 2313 and the first flange 2331 , the terminal body 231 , the connector 233 and the connector 25 may be injection molded together, thereby forming an insulator 232 between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233 .
[0219] By injection molding the insulator 232 between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233 , the integrity of the first electrode terminal 23 is improved, and the connection strength between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233 is higher.
[0220] In some embodiments, the battery cell 20 includes a plurality of connectors 25 , which are spaced apart along the circumference of the terminal body 231 .
[0221] The battery cell 20 may include two connectors 25 , three connectors 25 , four connectors 25 , or more than four connectors 25 . The multiple connectors 25 are distributed around the terminal body 231 .
[0222] By providing multiple connectors 25 , the current capacity can be increased, allowing the battery cell 20 to output a larger current. By distributing the multiple connectors 25 at intervals along the circumference of the terminal body 231 , the force around the terminal body 231 is made more uniform.
[0223] In some embodiments, the terminal body 231 is entirely located on a side of the wall portion 213 facing away from the electrode assembly 22 .
[0224] The wall portion 213 is provided with a mounting hole. The first electrode terminal 23 is provided on the wall portion 213 and covers the mounting hole. The terminal body 231 is provided on a side of the wall portion 213 away from the electrode assembly 22 and is completely located outside the mounting hole.
[0225] By disposing the terminal body 231 as a whole on the side of the wall portion 213 away from the electrode assembly 22 , it is convenient to electrically connect the first electrode tab 221 with the first electrode terminal 23 , and to facilitate installation of the first electrode terminal 23 .
[0226] In some embodiments, the connector 25 includes a first connecting portion 251, a fuse portion 252, and a second connecting portion 253. The fuse portion 252 connects the first connecting portion 251 and the second connecting portion 253. The first connecting portion 251 and the second connecting portion 253 are respectively connected to the terminal body 231 and the connector 233. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting portion 251, and the minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting portion 253.
[0227] The first connection portion 251 is the portion of the connector 25 that connects to the terminal body 231. The fuse portion 252 is a component of the connector 25 that provides fuse protection. The second connection portion 253 is the portion of the connector 25 that is electrically connected to the connector body 233. The fuse portion 252 can melt when an excessive current flows through it, thereby disconnecting the first connection portion 251 and the second connection portion 253, thereby disconnecting the first electrode terminal 23 from the housing 21, providing short-circuit protection or overload protection.
[0228] The minimum flow area of the first connection portion 251 is the minimum cross-sectional area of the first connection portion 251 perpendicular to its extension direction. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is the minimum cross-sectional area of the fuse portion 252 perpendicular to its extension direction. The minimum flow area of the second connection portion 253 is the minimum cross-sectional area of the second connection portion 253 perpendicular to its extension direction. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connection portion 251 and smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connection portion 253, so that it can be melted in a timely manner when a short circuit occurs in the battery cell 20.
[0229] The first connection portion 251 is connected to the terminal body 231, the second connection portion 253 is connected to the connector 233, and the fuse portion 252 connects the first connection portion 251 and the second connection portion 253. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connection portion 251 and smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connection portion 253. When the current passing through the fuse portion 252 is too large, the fuse portion 252 will automatically melt, disconnecting the first connection portion 251 and the second connection portion 253, thereby providing protection, reducing the risk of fire or explosion of the battery cell 20, and improving the reliability of the battery cell 20.
[0230] 14 , 15 , 16 and 17 , in some embodiments, the battery cell 20 includes an insulating member 254 , and the insulating member 254 covers the fuse portion 252 .
[0231] The insulating member 254 covers the fuse portion 252 to protect the fuse portion 252. For example, the insulating member 254 can be made of plastic, rubber, etc.
[0232] By providing the insulating member 254 to cover the fuse portion 252 , the fuse portion 252 is protected, the risk of damage to the fuse portion 252 is reduced, the life of the connector 25 is extended, and the number of cycles of the battery cell 20 is increased.
[0233] In some embodiments, the minimum flow area of the fuse 252 is S, which satisfies: 2mm 2 ≤S≤20mm 2 .
[0234] S represents the minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 , that is, the minimum cross-sectional area of the fuse portion 252 perpendicular to its extending direction.
[0235] The minimum flow area of the fuse 252 can be: S = 2mm 2 , 4mm 2 , 6mm 2 , 8mm 2 , 10mm 2 , 12mm 2 , 14mm2 , 16mm 2 , 18mm 2 , 20mm 2 wait.
[0236] When S≥2mm 2 When S≤20mm, the fuse part 252 has a larger flow area, so that the battery cell 20 can output a larger current. 2 When the flow area of the fuse part 252 is not too large, the fuse part 252 can be melted in time when the battery cell 20 is short-circuited, thus playing a protective role. 2 ≤S≤20mm 2 When the battery cell 20 is short-circuited, the battery cell 20 can be blown off in time.
[0237] In some embodiments, the length of the fuse portion 252 is L, which satisfies: 0.3 mm ≤ L ≤ 5 mm.
[0238] L represents the length of the fuse portion 252 along its extending direction. The length of the fuse portion 252 can be: L=0.3mm, 0.5mm, 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 3.5mm, 4mm, 4.5mm, 5mm, etc.
[0239] When L ≥ 0.3 mm, the fuse 252 has a longer length and higher resistance. When the battery cell 20 short-circuits, it can generate a large amount of heat, causing the fuse 252 to melt in time. When L ≤ 5 mm, the fuse 252 is not too long and its resistance is not too high, allowing the battery cell 20 to output a larger current. Therefore, when 0.3 mm ≤ L ≤ 5 mm, the battery cell 20 can both output a larger current and melt in time when a short circuit occurs.
[0240] 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , and 15 , in some embodiments, the battery cell 20 further includes a second electrode terminal 27 insulated and mounted on the wall portion 213 . The electrode assembly 22 further includes a second electrode tab 222 , and the second electrode terminal 27 is electrically connected to the second electrode tab 222 .
[0241] The second electrode terminal 27 is used to electrically connect to the second electrode tab 222 to input or output electrical energy from the battery cell 20. The second electrode terminal 27 can be directly connected to the second electrode tab 222, for example, by being directly welded to the second electrode tab 222. The second electrode terminal 27 can also be indirectly connected to the second electrode tab 222, for example, by being connected to the second electrode tab 222 through a second current collecting member. The second current collecting member can be a sheet-like structure, for example, a transition piece.
[0242] The polarity of the first electrode tab 221 and the second electrode tab 222 is opposite. For example, when the first electrode tab 221 is a positive electrode tab, the second electrode tab 222 is a negative electrode tab. When the first electrode tab 221 is a negative electrode tab, the second electrode tab 222 is a positive electrode tab. Similarly, the polarity of the first electrode terminal 23 and the second electrode terminal 27 is opposite. For example, when the first electrode terminal 23 is a positive electrode terminal, the second electrode terminal 27 is a negative electrode terminal. When the first electrode terminal 23 is a negative electrode terminal, the second electrode terminal 27 is a positive electrode terminal.
[0243] The second electrode terminal 27 is insulated and mounted on the wall portion 213 , that is, the second electrode terminal 27 is insulated and isolated from the wall portion 213 , and the second electrode tab 222 is disconnected from the wall portion 213 .
[0244] The outer shell 21 can be electrically connected to the first electrode tab 221, and the second electrode terminal 27 can be electrically connected to the second electrode tab 222. The outer shell 21 can serve as the positive or negative electrode of the battery cell 20, and the second electrode terminal 27 can serve as the negative or positive electrode of the battery cell 20 to output electrical energy from the battery cell 20. When both the first electrode tab 221 and the second electrode tab 222 are electrically connected to the outer shell 21, the battery cell 20 short-circuits, and the connector 25 can self-fuse, disconnecting the first electrode tab 221 from the outer shell 21. This protects the electrode assembly 22, reduces the risk of fire or explosion in the battery cell 20, and helps improve the reliability of the battery cell 20.
[0245] In some embodiments, the structure of the second electrode terminal 27 is the same as that of the first electrode terminal 23 . The structure of the second electrode terminal 27 can refer to the structure of the first electrode terminal 23 , and will not be described in detail here.
[0246] In other embodiments, the second electrode terminal 27 includes a riveted portion and a stopper portion, the riveted portion is connected to the second electrode tab 222 , the riveted portion is passed through the wall portion 213 , and the stopper portion is connected to one end of the riveted portion, that is, the second electrode terminal 27 is riveted to the wall portion 213 .
[0247] In some embodiments, the first electrode terminal 23 is a positive electrode terminal.
[0248] The first electrode terminal 23 is electrically connected to the outer shell 21 through the connector 25 . The first electrode terminal 23 is a positive electrode terminal, which prevents the outer shell 21 from being corroded.
[0249] In some embodiments, the housing 21 includes a shell 212 and an end cap 211 . The shell 212 has an opening. The end cap 211 is connected to the shell 212 and closes the opening. The end cap 211 is a wall 213 , or the shell 212 includes the wall 213 .
[0250] In some embodiments, the housing 21 may include a shell 212 and an end cap 211. The shell 212 has an opening formed inside thereof to form a receiving cavity 2321 for receiving the electrode assembly 22. The end cap 211 closes the opening and is formed as a wall 213. When the end cap 211 is formed as a wall 213, both the first electrode terminal 23 and the second electrode terminal 27 are disposed on the end cap 211.
[0251] In other embodiments, the battery cell 20 can also be other structures. For example, the shell 212 includes an integrally formed side wall and bottom wall, that is, the shell 212 is made by an integral molding process, such as an integral molding process such as stamping, casting or extrusion molding. In other words, the side wall and bottom wall of the shell 212 are an integral structure.
[0252] The housing 212 includes a wall portion 213, i.e., the wall portion 213 is a wall of the housing 212. Exemplarily, the wall portion 213 is the bottom wall of the housing 212, which is disposed opposite the end cap 211 in the thickness direction of the wall portion 213. When the bottom wall is the wall portion 213, the first electrode terminal 23 and the second electrode terminal 27 are both disposed on the bottom wall. Of course, in other embodiments, the wall portion 213 may also be a side wall of the housing 212. When the side wall is the wall portion 213, the first electrode terminal 23 and the second electrode terminal 27 are both disposed on the side wall.
[0253] It should be noted that the structure of the battery cell 20 can be various. In some embodiments, the outer shell 21 may include a shell 212 and two end covers 211. The interior of the shell 212 is formed with a accommodating cavity 2321, and the accommodating cavity 2321 is used to accommodate the electrode assembly 22. The shell 212 is formed with openings at both ends in the thickness direction of the wall portion 213, and the two openings are connected to the accommodating cavity 2321. The two end covers 211 respectively close the two openings, and one of the two end covers 211 is the wall portion 213.
[0254] The shell 212 of the outer shell 21 is provided with openings at both ends in the thickness direction of the wall portion 213, and the two end covers 211 respectively close the two openings. The wall portion 213 is one of the two end covers 211. The battery cell 20 adopting this structure is convenient for assembling the battery cell 20 from both ends of the shell 212, which is beneficial to reducing the manufacturing difficulty and assembly difficulty of the battery cell 20.
[0255] According to some embodiments of the present application, the wall portion 213 is made of steel.
[0256] For example, the wall portion 213 may be made of carbon steel, alloy steel, stainless steel, or the like.
[0257] It should be noted that the material of the wall portion 213 includes steel. If the wall portion 213 is the end cover 211 of the outer shell 21, the material of the end cover 211 is steel; if the wall portion 213 is a wall in the shell 212, the material of the shell 212 is steel.
[0258] In this embodiment, by setting the material of the wall portion 213 to steel, due to the high strength of steel, the wall portion 213 made of steel has better strength, so that when the bursting pressure of the battery cell 20 is constant, the wall portion 213 can be made thinner, which is beneficial to saving the space occupied by the wall portion 213.
[0259] In some embodiments, the steel material is carbon steel or stainless steel.
[0260] Illustratively, the carbon steel may be low carbon steel, medium carbon steel, or high carbon steel.
[0261] In this embodiment, carbon steel or stainless steel is used as the material of the wall portion 213 , which is low in cost and easy to manufacture.
[0262] In some embodiments, the wall portion 213 is made of aluminum alloy.
[0263] It is understandable that if the wall portion 213 is the end cover 211 , the end cover 211 may be made of aluminum alloy; if the wall portion 213 is the wall in the shell 212 , the shell 212 may be made of aluminum alloy.
[0264] Aluminum alloy has the characteristics of light weight and good ductility, and is easier to process on the wall portion 213.
[0265] In some embodiments, the aluminum alloy includes the following components in mass percentage: aluminum ≥ 99.6%, copper ≤ 0.05%, iron ≤ 0.35%, magnesium ≤ 0.03%, manganese ≤ 0.03%, silicon ≤ 0.25%, titanium ≤ 0.03%, vanadium ≤ 0.05%, zinc ≤ 0.05%, and other individual elements ≤ 0.03%.
[0266] This type of aluminum alloy belongs to the third series aluminum. It has lower hardness and better forming ability, which reduces processing difficulty and helps improve processing accuracy.
[0267] In some embodiments, the aluminum alloy includes the following components in mass percentage: aluminum ≥ 96.7%, 0.05% ≤ copper ≤ 0.2%, iron ≤ 0.7%, manganese ≤ 1.5%, silicon ≤ 0.6%, zinc ≤ 0.1%, other individual element components ≤ 0.05%, and the total composition of other elements ≤ 0.15%.
[0268] This aluminum alloy belongs to the fifth series aluminum. The wall portion 213 made of this aluminum alloy has higher hardness, greater strength, and good anti-destruction ability.
[0269] The embodiment of the present application further provides a battery 100 , which includes the above-mentioned battery cell 20 .
[0270] An embodiment of the present application further provides an electrical device, which includes the above-mentioned battery cell 20.
[0271] According to some embodiments of the present application, please refer to Figures 3 to 17.
[0272] An embodiment of the present application provides a battery cell 20, which includes a housing 21, an electrode assembly 22, a first electrode terminal 23, and a connector 25. The housing 21 has a wall portion 213, and the electrode assembly 22 is accommodated within the housing 21. The electrode assembly 22 has a first electrode tab 221, and the first electrode terminal 23 includes a terminal body 231, an insulator 232, and a connector 233. The terminal body 231 is electrically connected to the first electrode tab 221, the insulator 232 connects the terminal body 231 and the connector 233, and the connector 233 is connected to the wall portion 213. The connector 25 connects the connector 233 and the terminal body 231 to achieve electrical connection between the terminal body 231 and the wall portion 213. The connector 25 is configured to provide fuse protection for the electrode assembly 22. The battery cell 20 is simple and convenient to install by mounting the terminal body 231 on the wall portion 213 via the connector 233. The insulator 232 connects the terminal body 231 and the connector 233. In the absence of a connector 25 connecting the terminal body 231 and the connector 233, the insulator 232 can insulate the terminal body 231 and the connector 233, thereby isolating the first tab 221 from the wall 213. The battery cell 20 utilizes a connector 25 to connect the terminal body 231 and the connector 233, electrically connecting the terminal body 231 and the wall 213. This allows the housing 21 to output electrical energy from the electrode assembly 22. The battery management system can be connected to the housing 21 of the battery cell 20 to monitor the battery cell 20, significantly reducing wiring complexity. Furthermore, the connector 25 has a fuse protection function. When a short circuit occurs in the battery cell 20, the connector 25 can automatically fuse, thereby protecting the electrode assembly 22, reducing the risk of fire or explosion in the battery cell 20, and improving the reliability of the battery cell 20.
[0273] In some embodiments, the terminal body 231 includes a main body 2312 and a retaining portion 2313. The retaining portion 2313 protrudes from the outer circumference of the main body 2312. The connector 233 includes a first flange 2331. The retaining portion 2313 is at least partially located between the first flange 2331 and the wall 213 along the thickness direction of the wall 213. The connector 25 is located between the retaining portion 2313 and the first flange 2331 and connects the retaining portion 2313 and the first flange 2331. The insulator 232 covers the first flange 2331 and is provided with a receiving cavity 2321 for accommodating the connector 25. Positioning the connector 25 between the retaining portion 2313 and the first flange 2331 reduces the risk of interference between the connector 25 and other components, ensuring a stable connection between the retaining portion 2313 and the first flange 2331, thereby improving the lifespan of the battery cell 20. By having the insulator 232 cover the first flange 2331, it not only protects the first flange 2331 but also better connects the first flange 2331 to the terminal body 231. The insulator 232 is provided with a receiving cavity 2321. The connector 25 is accommodated in the receiving cavity 2321 and connects the first flange 2331 and the stopper 2313 to electrically connect the connector 233 to the terminal body 231. By providing the receiving cavity 2321 on the insulator 232, on the one hand, it is easier to avoid the connector 25, thereby allowing the connector 25 to connect the stopper 2313 and the first flange 2331. On the other hand, accommodating the connector 25 in the receiving cavity 2321 can protect the connector 25, further reducing the risk of interference between the connector 25 and other components, allowing the connector 25 to stably connect the stopper 2313 and the first flange 2331, which is beneficial for improving the life of the battery cell 20.
[0274] Optionally, the connector 25 is an elastic element, and along the thickness direction of the wall portion 213, the two ends of the connector 25 respectively abut against the limit portion 2313 and the first flange 2331. Because the connector 25 is an elastic element, it can apply elastic force to the limit portion 2313 and the first flange 2331, so that the connector 25 can maintain stable contact with the limit portion 2313 and the first flange 2331, allowing the connector 25 to be stably connected between the limit portion 2313 and the first flange 2331, which is beneficial for improving the life of the battery cell 20.
[0275] In other embodiments, the connector 233 includes a second flange 2333 not covered by the insulator 232, the second flange 2333 is connected to the wall portion 213, and the connector 25 connects the terminal body 231 and the second flange 2333. The second flange 2333 is not covered by the insulator 232, the second flange 2333 is connected to the wall portion 213, and the connector 25 directly connects the terminal body 231 and the second flange 2333 to electrically connect the first electrode terminal 23 and the wall portion 213, eliminating the need to provide a receiving cavity 2321 within the insulator 232. This allows the insulator 232 to better connect the terminal body 231 and the connector 233.
[0276] The outer surface of the insulator 232 is provided with a receiving groove 2322, and the connector 25 is at least partially received in the receiving groove 2322. By providing the receiving groove 2322 on the outer surface of the insulator 232, the connector 25 is at least partially received in the receiving groove 2322, and the height of the connector 25 protruding from the outer surface of the insulator 232 is reduced, thereby reducing the risk of interference between the connector 25 and other components, which is beneficial to improving the life of the battery cell 20.
[0277] Optionally, the insulator 232 is injection molded between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233. By injection molding the insulator 232 between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233, the integrity of the first electrode terminal 23 is improved, and the connection strength between the terminal body 231 and the connector 233 is higher.
[0278] The connector 25 includes a first connecting portion 251, a fuse portion 252, and a second connecting portion 253. The fuse portion 252 connects the first connecting portion 251 and the second connecting portion 253, which are respectively connected to the terminal body 231 and the connecting body 233. The minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting portion 251, and the minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting portion 253. The first connecting portion 251 is connected to the terminal body 231, and the second connecting portion 253 is connected to the connecting body 233. The fuse portion 252 connects the first connecting portion 251 and the second connecting portion 253, and the minimum flow area of the fuse portion 252 is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting portion 251 and smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting portion 253. When the current passing through the fuse part 252 is too large, the fuse part 252 will melt by itself, disconnecting the first connection part 251 and the second connection part 253 to play a protective role, reducing the risk of fire and explosion of the battery cell 20, which is conducive to improving the reliability of the battery cell 20.
[0279] The minimum flow area of the fuse 252 is S, which satisfies: 2mm 2 ≤S≤20mm 2 When S≥2mm 2When S≤20mm, the fuse part 252 has a larger flow area, so that the battery cell 20 can output a larger current. 2 When the flow area of the fuse part 252 is not too large, the fuse part 252 can be melted in time when the battery cell 20 is short-circuited, thus playing a protective role. 2 ≤S≤20mm 2 When the battery cell 20 is short-circuited, the battery cell 20 can be blown off in time.
[0280] The length of fuse 252 is L, satisfying the following conditions: 0.3mm ≤ L ≤ 5mm. When L ≥ 0.3mm, fuse 252 is longer and has higher resistance. When the battery cell 20 short-circuits, it can generate significant heat, causing fuse 252 to fuse promptly. When L ≤ 5mm, fuse 252 is not too long, and its resistance is not too high, allowing the battery cell 20 to output a higher current. Therefore, when 0.3mm ≤ L ≤ 5mm, the battery cell 20 can both output a higher current and fuse promptly when a short circuit occurs.
[0281] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present application and is not intended to limit the present application. Various modifications and variations are possible for those skilled in the art. 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 battery cell, wherein: include: a housing having a wall portion; an electrode assembly housed in the housing, the electrode assembly having a first electrode tab; a first electrode terminal comprising a terminal body, an insulator, and a connector, wherein the terminal body is electrically connected to the first tab, the connector is connected to the wall portion, the terminal body is at least partially located between the wall portion and the connector, and the insulator is at least partially located between the terminal body and the connector; A connector connects the connector and the terminal body to achieve electrical connection between the terminal body and the wall portion, and the connector is configured to provide fuse protection for the electrode assembly.
2. The battery cell according to claim 1, wherein: The terminal body includes a main body portion and a limiting portion, the limiting portion protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the main body portion, the connecting body includes a first flange, and along the thickness direction of the wall portion, the limiting portion is at least partially located between the first flange and the wall portion, and the connecting member is located between the limiting portion and the first flange and connects the limiting portion and the first flange.
3. The battery cell according to claim 2, wherein: The insulator covers the first flange, and the insulator is provided with an accommodating cavity for accommodating the connecting member.
4. The battery cell according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The connecting body further includes a main body and a second flange, wherein the first flange protrudes from a side of the main body close to the main body, the second flange protrudes from a side of the main body away from the main body, and the second flange is connected to the wall.
5. The battery cell according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein: The connecting member is an elastic element, and along the thickness direction of the wall portion, two ends of the connecting member are respectively in contact with the limiting portion and the first flange.
6. The battery cell according to claim 5, wherein: The elastic element includes a spring.
7. The battery cell according to claim 6, wherein: The spring includes a first connecting part, a fuse part and a second connecting part, the fuse part connects the first connecting part and the second connecting part, the first connecting part and the second connecting part are respectively connected to the limiting part and the first flange, the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting part, and the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting part.
8. The battery cell according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting body includes a second flange that is not covered by the insulator, the second flange is connected to the wall portion, and the connecting member connects the terminal body and the second flange.
9. The battery cell according to claim 8, wherein: An accommodating groove is provided on the outer surface of the insulator, and the connecting member is at least partially accommodated in the accommodating groove.
10. The battery cell according to claim 9, wherein: One end of the accommodating groove extends to the terminal body, and the other end of the accommodating groove extends to the second flange.
11. The battery cell according to claim 9 or 10, wherein: Along the direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the insulator, the part of the connector accommodated in the accommodating groove has a first surface closest to the outer surface of the insulator, and the minimum distance between the first surface and the outer surface of the insulator is A, satisfying: A≥0.2mm.
12. The battery cell according to claim 11, wherein: 0.5mm≤A≤1mm.
13. The battery cell according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein: The terminal body is provided with a clamping slot, the clamping slot is communicated with one end of the accommodating slot, and a part of the connecting member is clamped in the clamping slot.
14. The battery cell according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein: The terminal body includes a main body portion and a limiting portion, the limiting portion protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the main body portion, the connecting body includes a first flange and a main body portion, the first flange protrudes from a side of the main body portion close to the main body portion, and the second flange protrudes from a side of the main body portion away from the main body portion, and along the thickness direction of the wall portion, the limiting portion is at least partially located between the first flange and the wall portion.
15. The battery cell according to claim 14, wherein: The first flange, the main body and the second flange are all annular.
16. The battery cell according to any one of claims 8 to 15, wherein: The connecting part includes a first connecting part, a fuse part and a second connecting part, the fuse part connects the first connecting part and the second connecting part, the first connecting part and the second connecting part are respectively connected to the terminal body and the second flange, the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting part, and the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting part.
17. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein: The terminal body is provided with a slot, and a portion of the connector is locked in the slot.
18. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein: The insulator is injection-molded between the terminal body and the connector.
19. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein: The battery cell includes a plurality of the connecting members, and the plurality of the connecting members are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the terminal body.
20. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein: The terminal body is entirely located on a side of the wall portion facing away from the electrode assembly.
21. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein: The connecting part includes a first connecting part, a fuse part and a second connecting part, the fuse part connects the first connecting part and the second connecting part, the first connecting part and the second connecting part are respectively connected to the terminal body and the connecting body, the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the first connecting part, and the minimum flow area of the fuse part is smaller than the minimum flow area of the second connecting part.
22. The battery cell according to claim 21, wherein: The battery cell includes an insulating member, and the insulating member is covered on the fuse part.
23. The battery cell according to claim 21 or 22, wherein: The minimum flow area of the fuse is S, which satisfies: 2mm 2 ≤S≤20mm 2 .
24. The battery cell according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein: The length of the fuse portion is L, which satisfies the following conditions: 0.3 mm ≤ L ≤ 5 mm.
25. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein: The battery cell further includes a second electrode terminal, which is insulated and mounted on the wall portion. The electrode assembly further includes a second electrode tab, and the second electrode terminal is electrically connected to the second electrode tab.
26. The battery cell according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein: The first electrode terminal is a positive electrode terminal.
27. A battery, wherein: Comprising the battery cell according to any one of claims 1-26.
28. An electrical device, wherein: Comprising the battery cell according to any one of claims 1-26.