Battery module, battery, and electrical device

Abstract

A battery module (100), a battery, and an electrical device. The battery module (100) comprises: a battery cell group (1) and end plates (2). The battery cell group (1) comprises a plurality of battery cells (11) arranged in a first direction, and the end plates (2) are disposed at two opposite ends of the battery cell group (1) in the first direction. Each end plate (2) comprises an end plate main body (21) and an end plate frame (22) disposed on the end plate main body. The end plate main body (21) is an insulating member, the end plate frame (22) is a metal member, and the end plate frame (22) is located on the side of the end plate main body (21) facing away from the battery cell group (1).

Description

Battery modules, batteries and electrical equipment

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is based on the Chinese patent application with application number 202420412666.7 and application date March 4, 2024, and claims the priority of the Chinese patent application. The entire content of the Chinese patent application is hereby introduced into this application as a reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to the technical field of power batteries, and in particular to a battery module, a battery, and an electrical device. Background Art

[0004] In related art, a battery module typically includes a group of battery cells arranged in a series, with end plates mounted at both ends of the battery cell group. These end plates are used to resist deformation of the battery module caused by the expansion force of the battery cells in the battery cell group. The end plates are typically metal parts, which can cause short circuits in the battery module. An insulating layer (such as insulating glue or an insulating sheet) is also provided between the battery cell group and the end plates. However, when the battery expansion force is large, the structural strength of the end plates is insufficient to resist deformation caused by the battery expansion force, and the end plates are prone to structural failure.

[0005] Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the above problems, the present application provides a battery module, a battery and an electrical device, which can improve the structural strength of the end plate, enhance the ability of the end plate to resist deformation caused by the expansion force of the battery, and avoid structural failure of the end plate.

[0007] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery module, comprising: a battery cell group, comprising a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction; an end plate, arranged at opposite ends of the battery cell group along the first direction, the end plate comprising an end plate body and an end plate frame arranged on the end plate body, the end plate body being an insulating part, the end plate frame being a metal part, and the end plate frame being located on the side of the end plate body facing away from the battery cell group.

[0008] In the above technical solution, the end plate includes an end plate body and an end plate frame provided on the end plate body. The integration of the end plate frame and the end plate body into a single unit improves the structural strength of the end plate, enhances the end plate's ability to resist deformation caused by battery expansion forces, and prevents structural failure of the end plate. Furthermore, the end plate frame is a metal component, while the end plate body is an insulating component. The end plate body has insulating properties. The integration of the end plate frame and the end plate body into a single unit provides an insulating function. Furthermore, the end plate frame is located on the side of the end plate body facing away from the battery cell group, allowing the end plate body to isolate the metal component from the battery cell group, thereby preventing problems such as short circuits in the battery module.

[0009] In some embodiments, the end plate skeleton is steel.

[0010] In the above technical solution, by forming the end plate frame into a steel part, the steel part has high rigidity and strength, which can improve the ability of the end plate frame to resist deformation. When the end plate frame is subjected to the expansion force of the battery cell of the battery cell group, the deformation degree of the end plate can be further reduced or deformation of the end plate can be avoided.

[0011] In some embodiments, the end plate body is a plastic part.

[0012] In the above technical solution, by making the end plate main body a plastic part, the plastic part is relatively light, thereby reducing the overall weight of the end plate, thereby helping to reduce the overall weight of the battery module and improve the battery module's endurance. In addition, plastic parts are easy to process, making the processing of the end plate main body simple.

[0013] In some embodiments, the end plate skeleton comprises a plurality of interconnected metal rods, at least some of which are connected to the end plate body.

[0014] In the above technical solution, by making the end plate skeleton comprise multiple interconnected metal rods, while ensuring that the end plate skeleton has a certain ability to resist deformation, it is beneficial to reduce the weight of the end plate skeleton, thereby reducing the overall weight of the battery module and improving the battery module's endurance. By connecting at least some of the metal rods to the end plate body, the end plate skeleton and the end plate body can be integrated into a module.

[0015] In some embodiments, the metal rod is formed into a hollow structure.

[0016] In the above technical solution, by forming the metal rod into a hollow structure, the weight of the metal rod can be reduced, thereby further reducing the weight of the end plate frame, which is beneficial to further reduce the overall weight of the battery module and further improve the battery life of the battery module.

[0017] In some embodiments, the metal rods are connected by welding.

[0018] In the above technical solution, the metal rods are connected by welding, and the connection relationship and connection method between the metal rods are simple, so it is easy to connect multiple metal rods together.

[0019] In some embodiments, the plurality of metal rods include two first metal rods and at least one second metal rod, the two first metal rods are disposed opposite to each other and spaced apart, and the second metal rod is connected between the two first metal rods.

[0020] In the above technical solution, by arranging two first metal rods opposite to each other and at intervals, and connecting the second metal rod between the two first metal rods, the layout between the first metal rod and the second metal rod is reasonable, and the ability of the end plate skeleton formed by connecting multiple metal rods to resist deformation is evenly distributed in at least a certain direction.

[0021] In some embodiments, there are multiple second metal rods, and the multiple second metal rods are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the first metal rod.

[0022] In the above technical solution, by providing multiple second metal rods and arranging the multiple metal rods at intervals along the length direction of the first metal rod, the multiple second metal rods can increase the stiffness and strength of the end plate frame in the length direction of the first metal rod, thereby increasing the deformation resistance of the end plate frame in the length direction of the first metal rod, and is conducive to making the deformation resistance of the end plate frame uniformly distributed along the length direction of the first metal rod.

[0023] In some embodiments, the surface of the metal rod facing the end plate body is the first mating surface, the surface of the end plate body opposite to the first mating surface is the second mating surface, and the first mating surface is in contact with the second mating surface or connected by an adhesive layer.

[0024] In the above technical solution, the metal rod and the end plate body are connected together by making the first mating surface of the metal rod contact with the second mating surface of the end plate body or connecting through an adhesive layer, and the connection method through the adhesive layer is simple.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first mating surface is a plane.

[0026] In the above technical solution, by making the first mating surface a plane, the contact area between the first mating surface and the second mating surface can be increased, which can improve the stability of the connection between the first mating surface and the second mating surface, thereby improving the connection stability between the end plate frame and the end plate body, which is beneficial to improving the overall structural strength and structural stability of the end plate and the ability to suppress the deformation of the battery cell group.

[0027] In some embodiments, the second mating surface is planar.

[0028] In the above technical solution, by making the second mating surface a plane, the contact area between the first mating surface and the second mating surface can be increased, which can improve the stability of the connection between the first mating surface and the second mating surface, thereby improving the connection stability between the end plate frame and the end plate body, which is beneficial to improving the overall structural strength and structural stability of the end plate and the ability to suppress the deformation of the battery cell group.

[0029] In some embodiments, a receiving groove is formed on the end plate body, and at least a portion of the end plate frame is received in the receiving groove.

[0030] In the above technical solution, by accommodating at least part of the end plate frame in the accommodating groove on the end plate body, the end plate frame can be accurately positioned relative to the end plate body with reference to the accommodating groove, so that the end plate frame and the end plate body are accurately connected. The accommodating groove on the end plate body can form a limiting effect on the end plate frame, so that the end plate frame can be more stably arranged on the end plate body, which is beneficial to improving the overall structural strength and structural stability of the end plate, thereby further enhancing the end plate's ability to resist deformation.

[0031] In some embodiments, an adhesive layer is provided between the end plate frame and the inner wall of the accommodating groove.

[0032] In the above technical solution, an adhesive layer is provided between the end plate frame and the inner wall of the receiving groove, so that the end plate frame can be stably connected to the inner wall of the receiving groove, and the connection method through the adhesive layer is simple and easy to operate.

[0033] In some embodiments, the end plate body includes a plate body and a reinforcing limiting structure, the end plate frame is located on the side of the plate body away from the battery cell group, the reinforcing limiting structure is arranged on the side of the plate body away from the battery cell group, and at least a portion of the accommodating groove is defined between the reinforcing limiting structure and the plate body.

[0034] In the above technical solution, by setting up a reinforced limiting structure, the structural strength of the end plate main body can be strengthened, and at the same time, the end plate main body can form a limiting effect on the end plate frame; by defining at least part of the accommodating groove between the reinforced limiting structure and the plate body, the structural design of each part of the end plate main body is reasonable and the layout is compact. When the end plate frame is accommodated in the accommodating groove, the reinforced limiting structure is also conducive to the end plate frame being stably arranged on the end plate main body.

[0035] In some embodiments, the reinforced limiting structure includes reinforcing ribs and limiting flanges, the limiting flanges are connected to the edge of the plate body, the reinforcing ribs are distributed on the plate body, the limiting flanges and the reinforcing ribs are spaced apart to form a portion of the accommodating groove, and the portion of the accommodating groove is defined between the reinforcing ribs.

[0036] In the above technical solution, the reinforcing limiting structure includes reinforcing ribs and limiting flanges, and the limiting flanges are connected to the edge of the plate body, the reinforcing ribs are distributed on the plate body, and the layout of the limiting flanges and the reinforcing ribs is reasonable. The reinforcing ribs can be used to strengthen the structural strength of the plate body, thereby improving the structural strength of the end plate body; by spacing the limiting flanges and the reinforcing ribs to form a portion of the accommodating groove, the portion of the accommodating groove is defined between the reinforcing ribs, the layout of the limiting flanges, the reinforcing ribs and the accommodating groove is reasonable, and different portions of the accommodating groove located at different positions can respectively form a limiting effect on different positions of the end plate frame accommodated in the accommodating groove, which can further make the end plate frame more stably arranged on the end plate body.

[0037] In some embodiments, the end plate body includes an installation and fixing structure, which is located on the outer peripheral side of the end plate frame. The installation and fixing structure is arranged on the plate body, and the installation and fixing structure, the reinforced limiting structure and the plate body jointly define the accommodating groove. The installation and fixing structure includes at least one of a fixing part, an output pole mounting part and a circuit board mounting part; wherein, the battery module includes an output pole base and a circuit board, the fixing part is used to connect with an external component to install and fix the battery module, the output pole mounting part is used to install the output pole base, and the circuit board mounting part is used to fix the circuit board.

[0038] In the above technical solution, by making the installation and fixing structure include at least one of a fixing part, an output pole mounting part and a circuit mounting part, more functional components are integrated on the end plate body, such as those that can be used to install and fix the output pole base or a circuit board, etc., and there is no need to set at least one of a fixing part, an output pole mounting part and a circuit mounting part at other positions of the battery module, which can reduce the number of components of the battery module, thereby further simplifying the installation operation of the battery module; and since the end plate body is an insulating part, the installation and fixing structure has insulation properties. When the output pole base or the circuit board is installed on the installation and fixing structure, there is no need to set an insulating structure separately between the output pole base and the installation and fixing structure, or there is no need to set an insulating structure separately between the circuit board and the installation and fixing structure. This is also beneficial to reduce the number of components of the battery module, thereby helping to simplify the installation operation of the battery module.

[0039] In some embodiments, the end plate body includes a plate body and a mounting and fixing structure provided on the plate body, the end plate frame is located on the side of the plate body away from the battery cell group, the mounting and fixing structure is located on the outer peripheral side of the end plate frame, and the mounting and fixing structure includes at least one of a fixing part, an output pole mounting part and a circuit board mounting part; wherein, the battery module includes an output pole base and a circuit board, the fixing part is used to connect with an external component to install and fix the battery module, the output pole mounting part is used to install the output pole base, and the circuit board mounting part is used to fix the circuit board.

[0040] In the above technical solution, by making the installation and fixing structure include at least one of a fixing part, an output pole mounting part and a circuit mounting part, more functional components are integrated on the end plate body, such as those that can be used to install an output pole or a circuit board, etc., and there is no need to set at least one of a fixing part, an output pole mounting part and a circuit mounting part at other positions of the battery module, which can reduce the number of components of the battery module and thus simplify the installation operation of the battery module; and since the end plate body is an insulating part, the installation and fixing structure has insulating properties. When the output pole base or the circuit board is installed on the installation and fixing structure, there is no need to set an insulating structure separately between the output pole base and the installation and fixing structure, or there is no need to set an insulating structure separately between the circuit board and the installation and fixing structure. This is also beneficial to reduce the number of components of the battery module, thereby helping to simplify the installation operation of the battery module.

[0041] In some embodiments, the mounting and fixing structure includes the output pole mounting portion and the circuit board mounting portion, the electrode terminal of the battery cell is located on one side of the battery cell along the second direction, the second direction intersects with the first direction, the circuit board includes a circuit board body and a lead-out portion, the circuit board body is located on one side of the battery cell group along the second direction, the lead-out portion is connected to a side of the circuit board body adjacent to one of the end plates, the lead-out portion is fixed to the circuit board mounting portion, and the output pole mounting portion and the circuit board mounting portion are located on the same side of the board body along the second direction.

[0042] In the above technical solution, by making the mounting and fixing structure include an output pole mounting portion and a circuit board mounting portion, the output pole mounting portion and the circuit board mounting portion are integrated on the end plate body, which can further improve the integration of the end plate body, and the mounting and fixing structure is an insulating part, and there is no need to set up an additional insulating structure when installing the output pole base on the output pole mounting portion and installing the circuit board on the circuit board mounting portion. These are all conducive to reducing the number of components of the battery module, thereby helping to improve the installation and production efficiency of the battery module; by making the circuit board include a circuit board body and a lead-out portion, and connecting the lead-out portion to a side of the circuit board body adjacent to one of the end plates, such an arrangement facilitates the fixation of the lead-out portion to the circuit board mounting portion; by making the output pole mounting portion and the circuit board mounting portion be located on the same side of the plate body along the second direction, such an arrangement makes the structure of the end plate body compact, which is conducive to the miniaturization of the battery module.

[0043] In some embodiments, the mounting and fixing structure includes the fixing portion, the fixing portion is embedded with a metal sleeve, and the metal sleeve is used to connect with an external component to mount and fix the battery module.

[0044] In the above technical solution, by embedding the metal sleeve within the fixing portion, the metal sleeve can increase the rigidity and strength of the fixing portion, thereby preventing the fixing portion from being crushed when the battery module is mounted on an external component, thereby improving the stability of the mounting and fixing. For example, the battery module can be mounted and fixed to the external component by locking the fixing bolt to the fixing portion. The metal sleeve can be connected to the fixing bolt to prevent the fixing bolt from directly connecting with the fixing portion and causing torque decay, thereby improving the connection stability between the fixing bolt and the fixing portion.

[0045] In some embodiments, the mounting and fixing structure includes the output pole mounting portion, the output pole mounting portion is formed with a mounting groove, and the output pole base is mounted in the mounting groove.

[0046] In the above technical solution, by forming a mounting groove on the output pole mounting portion and installing the output pole base in the mounting groove, the mounting groove can limit the output pole base, which is beneficial to improving the installation stability of the output pole base.

[0047] In some embodiments, the mounting groove passes through the output pole mounting portion along the first direction, and guide limit grooves are formed on the opposite side walls of the mounting groove along the third direction. Guide limit protrusions are formed on the opposite sides of the output pole base along the third direction, and the guide limit protrusions are accommodated in the guide limit grooves, and the third direction intersects with the first direction.

[0048] In the above technical solution, guide limit grooves are formed on the opposite side walls of the mounting groove along the third direction, and guide limit protrusions are formed on the opposite sides of the output pole base along the third direction, and the limit protrusions are accommodated in the guide limit grooves. The guide limit grooves guide the guide limit protrusions, which is convenient for guiding the output pole base to be installed in the mounting groove along the first direction, and the guide limit grooves limit the guide limit protrusions, which can prevent the output pole base from falling out of the output pole mounting part, and is conducive to the stable installation of the output pole base in the output pole mounting part.

[0049] In some embodiments, the battery module includes an output pole base, and the output pole base is integrally formed with the end plate body.

[0050] In the above technical solution, by integrally forming the output pole base and the end plate body, the integration of the end plate can be further improved, so that there is no need to separately install the output pole base on the end plate body, which can further simplify the installation operation of the battery module and help improve the installation production efficiency of the battery module.

[0051] In some embodiments, the battery module also includes a fixing strap, which is sleeved on the outer peripheral side of the battery cell group and the end plate to fix the end plate to the battery cell group. A limiting groove is formed on the end plate body, and a portion of the fixing strap is accommodated in the limiting groove.

[0052] In the above technical solution, the fixing strap is provided to conveniently secure the end plate to the battery cell pack. Furthermore, by forming a limiting groove in the end plate body, a portion of the fixing strap is accommodated in the limiting groove, so that the limiting groove can limit the fixing strap, thereby reducing or preventing movement of the fixing strap relative to the battery cell pack and the end plate. This prevents loosening between the end plate and the battery cell pack due to movement of the fixing strap, thereby improving the stability of the fixation between the end plate and the battery cell pack. Furthermore, it can also prevent the normal operation of the battery cell module from being affected by loosening of the battery cell pack.

[0053] In some embodiments, the end plate body includes a plate body, a fixing portion and a limiting flange, the fixing portion is connected to the edge of the plate body and is located on the outer peripheral side of the end plate frame, the fixing portion is used to install and fix the battery module, the limiting flange is connected to the edge of the plate body and extends in a direction away from the battery cell group, and the limiting flange is used to limit the end plate frame; the limiting flange is located on opposite sides of the plate body along a third direction, the fixing portion is located on opposite sides of the plate body along a second direction and is connected to both ends of the plate body along the third direction, the limiting flange and the fixing portion located on the same side of the third direction are spaced apart in the second direction to form the limiting groove between the limiting flange and the fixing portion, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction intersect with each other.

[0054] In the above technical solution, the limiting flange and the fixing part located on the same side in the third direction are spaced apart in the second direction to form a limiting groove between the limiting flange and the fixing part. The layout between the limiting flange and the fixing part is reasonable, so that the formation method of the limiting groove is simple, and the limiting flange and the fixing part can form a limiting effect on the fixing belt accommodated in the limiting groove in the second direction.

[0055] In some embodiments, the end plate body is a one-piece molded part.

[0056] In the above technical solution, by forming the end plate body into an integrally molded part, the molding process of the end plate body can be simplified, and there is no need to mold different parts of the end plate body separately and then perform connection operations. For example, there is no need to independently mold the output pole mounting part, circuit board mounting part, etc. on the end plate body and then connect them to the end plate body. This is conducive to simplifying the installation operation of the battery module, thereby helping to improve the installation production efficiency of the battery module.

[0057] In some embodiments, the two end plates located at opposite ends of the battery cell group along the first direction are identical.

[0058] In the above technical solution, by making the two end plates located at the two opposite ends of the battery cell group along the first direction the same, the two end plates located at the two opposite ends of the battery cell group can be used interchangeably. When installing and producing the battery module, there is no need to distinguish the end plates at the two ends before installing them, which is beneficial to improving the installation and production efficiency of the battery module.

[0059] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery, including: the battery module of the embodiment of the first aspect mentioned above.

[0060] In the above technical solution, by setting up the above-mentioned battery module, the structural strength of the end plate can be improved, the ability of the end plate to resist deformation caused by the battery expansion force can be enhanced, and structural failure of the end plate can be avoided, thereby reducing or avoiding structural failure of the battery.

[0061] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an electrical device, including: the battery of the embodiment of the second aspect above.

[0062] In the above technical solution, by providing the above-mentioned battery, the structural strength of the end plate can be improved, the ability of the end plate to resist deformation caused by the expansion force of the battery can be enhanced, and structural failure of the end plate can be avoided, thereby reducing or avoiding structural failure of the battery, thereby reducing or avoiding malfunctions of electrical equipment.

[0063] Additional aspects and advantages of the present application will be given in part in the description below, and in part will become obvious from the description below, or will be learned through practice of the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present application will become apparent and easily understood from the description of the embodiments in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0065] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional structure of a battery module according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0066] FIG2 is an enlarged view of point B in FIG1 ;

[0067] FIG3 is an exploded schematic diagram of the battery module in FIG1 ;

[0068] FIG4 is an enlarged view of point C in FIG1 ;

[0069] Figure 5 is an exploded schematic diagram of the end plate in Figure 1

[0070] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the end plate in Figure 1;

[0071] FIG7 is an enlarged view of point A in FIG6 ;

[0072] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of the output pole base of FIG1 .

[0073] Reference numerals:

[0074] 100. Battery module;

[0075] 1. Battery cell group; 11. Battery cell; 111. Electrode terminal;

[0076] 2. End plate; 21. End plate frame; 211. Metal rod; 2111. First metal rod; 2112. Second metal rod; 2113. First mating surface; 22. End plate body; 221. Second mating surface; 222. Accommodating groove; 223. Plate body; 224. Reinforced limiting structure; 2241. Reinforcement rib; 2242. Limiting flange; 225. Mounting and fixing structure; 2251. Fixing portion; 226. Metal sleeve; 2252. Output pole mounting portion; 227. Mounting groove; 2271. Guide limiting groove; 2253. Circuit board mounting portion; 2254. Second connecting hole; 228. Limiting groove;

[0077] 3. Output pole base; 31. Guide limit protrusion;

[0078] 4. Circuit board; 41. Circuit board body; 42. Lead-out portion; 421. Auxiliary connecting portion; 422. First connecting hole; 43. Rivet;

[0079] 5. Fixing strap. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] The term "plurality" used in this application refers to two or more (including two).

[0087] In this application, the battery may include a box for encapsulating one or more battery cells or multiple battery modules, and the box can prevent liquid or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells. Of course, some batteries may not include the above box.

[0088] In this application, battery cells may include lithium-ion secondary batteries, lithium-ion primary batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, or magnesium-ion batteries, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit this. Battery cells may be cylindrical, flat, rectangular, or other shapes, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit this. Battery cells are generally divided into three types based on the packaging method: cylindrical batteries, prismatic batteries, and soft-pack batteries, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0089] Currently, market developments indicate that batteries are becoming increasingly widely used. Batteries 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 the application of power batteries continues to expand, market demand is also growing.

[0090] The inventors note that in related art, battery modules typically include groups of battery cells, with end plates installed at both ends of the battery cell groups. The end plates are used to resist deformation of the battery module that may be caused by the expansion force of the battery cells in the battery cell groups. The end plates are usually configured as metal parts, which may cause short circuits in the battery module. An insulating layer (such as insulating glue or insulating sheet) is also provided between the battery cell groups and the end plates. However, when the battery expansion force is large, the structural strength of the end plates is insufficient to resist the deformation caused by the battery expansion force, and the end plates are prone to structural failure.

[0091] Based on this, the applicant proposed a battery module, which includes a battery cell group having multiple battery cells and end plates arranged at opposite ends of the battery cell group along a first direction, and the end plate includes an end plate body and an end plate frame arranged on the side of the end plate body away from the battery cell group, and the end plate body is an insulating part and the end plate frame is a metal part.

[0092] In the above-mentioned battery module, by making the end plate include an end plate body and an end plate frame arranged on the end plate body, the end plate frame and the end plate body are integrated into a whole, which is beneficial to improving the structural strength of the end plate, enhancing the ability of the end plate to resist deformation caused by the expansion force of the battery, and avoiding structural failure of the end plate.

[0093] The end plate frame is a metal part, and the end plate body is an insulating part. The end plate body has insulating properties. The end plate frame and the end plate body are integrated into a whole, so that the end plate also has an integrated insulation function, and the end plate frame is located on the side of the end plate body away from the battery cell group, so that the end plate body can be used to isolate the metal part and the battery cell group, thereby avoiding problems such as short circuit in the battery module.

[0094] The battery module disclosed in the embodiments of the present application can be used in electrical devices that use batteries as power sources or various energy storage systems that use batteries as energy storage elements. Electrical devices can include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, electric toys, power tools, battery cars, electric cars, ships, spacecraft, and the like. Among them, electric toys can include fixed or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, and the like, and spacecraft can include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, and the like.

[0095] A battery module 100 according to an embodiment of the present application will be described below with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 8 .

[0096] Referring to Figures 1-4 , in a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery module 100 comprising: a battery cell group 1 and an end plate 2. The battery cell group 1 comprises a plurality of battery cells 11 arranged along a first direction. The end plates 2 are disposed at opposite ends of the battery cell group 1 along the first direction. The end plates 2 comprise an end plate body 21 and an end plate frame 22 disposed on the end plate body 21. The end plate body 21 is an insulating member, and the end plate frame 22 is a metal member. The end plate frame 22 is located on the side of the end plate body 21 facing away from the battery cell group 1. The first direction can be referenced as shown in direction e1 in the figures.

[0097] The end plates 2 located at opposite ends of the battery cell group 1 along the first direction can exert supporting force along the first direction on the battery cells 11 , so that the battery cells 11 can be stably arranged in parallel along the first direction.

[0098] For example, the assembly and production process of the battery module 100 includes the following steps: arranging the plurality of battery cells 11 of the battery cell group 1 in parallel along a first direction, and then arranging two end plates 2 at both ends of the battery cell group 1 in the first direction.

[0099] In the above technical solution, by making the end plate 2 include an end plate body 21 and an end plate frame 22 provided on the end plate body 21, the end plate frame 22 and the end plate body 21 are integrated into a whole, which is conducive to improving the structural strength of the end plate 2, enhancing the ability of the end plate 2 to resist deformation caused by the expansion force of the battery, and avoiding structural failure of the end plate 2. In addition, the end plate frame 22 is a metal part, and the end plate body 21 is an insulating part. The end plate body 21 has insulating properties. The end plate frame and the end plate body 21 are integrated into a whole, so that the end plate 2 also has an integrated insulation function. The end plate frame 22 is located on the side of the end plate body 21 away from the battery cell group 1, so that the end plate body 21 can be used to isolate the metal parts from the battery cell group 1, thereby avoiding problems such as short circuits in the battery module 100.

[0100] 1-4 , in some embodiments, the end plate skeleton 22 is a steel member.

[0101] In the above technical solution, by forming the end plate frame 22 into a steel part, the steel part has high rigidity and strength, which can improve the ability of the end plate frame 22 to resist deformation. When the end plate frame 22 bears the expansion force of the battery cell 11 of the battery cell group 1, the deformation degree of the end plate 2 can be further reduced or the deformation of the end plate 2 can be avoided.

[0102] 1-4 , in some embodiments, the end plate body 21 is a plastic member.

[0103] In the above technical solution, by making the end plate body 21 a plastic part, the plastic part is relatively light, thereby reducing the overall weight of the end plate 2, thereby helping to reduce the overall weight of the battery module 100 and improve the battery life of the battery module 100. In addition, plastic parts are easy to process, making the processing of the end plate body 21 simple.

[0104] 5-6 , in some embodiments, the end plate skeleton 22 includes a plurality of interconnected metal rods 211 , and at least some of the metal rods 211 are connected to the end plate body 21 .

[0105] For example, some of the metal rods 211 of the end plate skeleton 22 are connected to the end plate body 21 ; for example, all of the metal rods 211 of the end plate skeleton 22 are connected to the end plate body 21 .

[0106] In the above technical solution, by making the end plate skeleton 22 include a plurality of interconnected metal rods 211, while ensuring that the end plate skeleton 22 has a certain ability to resist deformation, it is beneficial to reduce the weight of the end plate skeleton 22, thereby reducing the overall weight of the battery module 100 and improving the endurance of the battery module 100. By connecting at least some of the metal rods 211 to the end plate body 21, the end plate skeleton 22 and the end plate body 21 can be integrated into a module.

[0107] 5 , in some embodiments, the metal rod 211 is formed into a hollow structure.

[0108] In the above technical solution, by forming the metal rod 211 into a hollow structure, the weight of the metal rod 211 can be reduced, thereby further reducing the weight of the end plate frame 22, which is beneficial to further reduce the overall weight of the battery module 100 and further improve the battery life of the battery module 100.

[0109] 5-6 , in some embodiments, the metal rods 211 are connected by welding.

[0110] For example, the ends of the plurality of metal rods 211 are connected by welding.

[0111] In the above technical solution, the metal rods 211 are connected to each other by welding. The connection relationship and connection method between the metal rods 211 are simple, so that it is easy to connect multiple metal rods 211 to each other.

[0112] 5-6 , in some embodiments, the plurality of metal rods 211 include two first metal rods 2111 and at least one second metal rod 2112 . The two first metal rods 2111 are opposite and spaced apart, and the second metal rod 2112 is connected between the two first metal rods 2111 .

[0113] The arrangement and connection relationship of the plurality of metal rods 211 may include the following situations:

[0114] For example, the plurality of metal rods 211 include two first metal rods 2111 and one second metal rod 2112. The two first metal rods 2111 are arranged opposite each other and spaced apart along the second direction. The second metal rod 2112 is connected to the middle of the two first metal rods 2111 in the third direction, or the second metal rod 2112 is connected to one end of the two first metal rods 2111 in the third direction. The second direction can be referenced to direction e2 in the figure, and the third direction can be referenced to direction e3 in the figure.

[0115] For example, the multiple metal rods 211 include two first metal rods 2111 and one second metal rod 2112, the two first metal rods 2111 are opposite and spaced apart along the third direction, the second metal rod 2112 is connected to the middle of the two first metal rods 2111 in the second direction, or the second metal rod 2112 is connected to one end of the two first metal rods 2111 in the second direction.

[0116] For example, the multiple metal rods 211 include two first metal rods 2111 and multiple second metal rods 2112, the two first metal rods 2111 are opposite and spaced apart along the second direction, and the multiple second metal rods 2112 are arranged in parallel and spaced apart in the third direction and connected between the two first metal rods 2111.

[0117] For example, the metal rod 211 includes two first metal rods 2111 and a plurality of second metal rods 2112. The two first metal rods 2111 are opposite and spaced apart along the third direction, and the plurality of second metal rods 2112 are arranged side by side and spaced apart in the second direction and connected between the two first metal rods 2111.

[0118] The second direction may refer to the direction e2 in the figure, and the third direction may refer to the direction e3 in the figure. The first direction, the second direction and the third direction intersect with each other.

[0119] In the above technical solution, by making the two first metal rods 2111 opposite to each other and spaced apart, the second metal rod 2112 is connected between the two first metal rods 2111, the layout between the first metal rod 2111 and the second metal rod 2112 is reasonable, and the end plate skeleton 22 formed by connecting multiple metal rods 211 has a uniform distribution of its ability to resist deformation in at least one direction.

[0120] 5-6 , in some embodiments, there are multiple second metal rods 2112 , and the multiple second metal rods 2112 are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the first metal rod 2111 .

[0121] In the above technical solution, by providing multiple second metal rods 2112 and arranging multiple metal rods 211 at intervals along the length direction of the first metal rod 2111, multiple second metal rods 2112 can improve the stiffness and strength of the end plate skeleton 22 in the length direction of the first metal rod 2111, thereby improving the deformation resistance of the end plate skeleton 22 in the length direction of the first metal rod 2111, and is conducive to making the deformation resistance of the end plate skeleton 22 uniformly distributed along the length direction of the first metal rod 2111.

[0122] Referring to Figure 5, in some embodiments, the surface of the metal rod 211 facing the end plate body 21 is the first mating surface 2113, and the surface of the end plate body 21 opposite to the first mating surface 2113 is the second mating surface 221. The first mating surface 2113 is in contact with the second mating surface 221 or is connected by an adhesive layer.

[0123] For example, the multiple metal rods 211 of the end plate skeleton 22 have multiple first mating surfaces 2113, and the end plate body 21 has multiple second mating surfaces 221 opposite to the first mating surfaces 2113. The multiple first mating surfaces 2113 correspond one-to-one to the multiple second mating surfaces 221, and the multiple first mating surfaces 2113 and the multiple second mating surfaces 221 are connected by an adhesive layer; or some of the first mating surfaces 2113 and the second mating surfaces 221 are connected by an adhesive layer.

[0124] In the above technical solution, the metal rod 211 is connected to the end plate body 21 by making the first mating surface 2113 of the metal rod 211 contact with the second mating surface 221 of the end plate body 21 or connecting through an adhesive layer, and the connection method through the adhesive layer is simple.

[0125] In some embodiments, the first mating surface 2113 is a plane.

[0126] In the above technical solution, by making the first mating surface 2113 a plane, the contact area between the first mating surface 2113 and the second mating surface 221 can be increased, which can improve the stability of the connection between the first mating surface 2113 and the second mating surface 221, thereby improving the connection stability between the end plate skeleton 22 and the end plate body 21, which is beneficial to improving the overall structural strength and structural stability of the end plate 2 and the ability to suppress the deformation of the battery cell group 1.

[0127] In some embodiments, the second mating surface 221 is a plane.

[0128] In the above technical solution, by making the second mating surface 221 a plane, the contact area between the first mating surface 2113 and the second mating surface 221 can be increased, which can improve the stability of the connection between the first mating surface 2113 and the second mating surface 221, thereby improving the connection stability between the end plate skeleton 22 and the end plate body 21, which is beneficial to improving the overall structural strength and structural stability of the end plate 2 and the ability to suppress the deformation of the battery cell group 1.

[0129] 5 , in some embodiments, a receiving groove 222 is formed on the end plate body 21 , and at least a portion of the end plate skeleton 22 is received in the receiving groove 222 .

[0130] At least part of the end plate skeleton 22 is accommodated in the accommodating groove 222, which may include the following situations: for example, the end plate skeleton 22 is completely accommodated in the accommodating groove 222 of the end plate body 21; for example, part of the end plate skeleton 22 is accommodated in the accommodating groove 222 of the end plate body 21.

[0131] Optionally, the end plate frame 22 can be interference fit with the accommodating groove 222, which facilitates the addition of a connecting layer between the end plate frame 22 and the accommodating groove 222, such as an adhesive layer, which is beneficial to further improve the stability of the connection relationship between the end plate frame 22 and the end plate body 21, thereby improving the overall structural strength and structural stability of the end plate 2, and further enhancing the ability of the end plate 2 to resist deformation.

[0132] In the above technical solution, by accommodating at least part of the end plate skeleton 22 in the accommodating groove 222 on the end plate main body 21, the end plate skeleton 22 can be accurately positioned relative to the end plate main body 21 with reference to the accommodating groove 222, so that the end plate skeleton 22 is accurately connected to the end plate main body 21. The accommodating groove 222 on the end plate main body 21 can form a limiting effect on the end plate skeleton 22, so that the end plate skeleton 22 can be more stably arranged on the end plate main body 21, which is beneficial to improving the overall structural strength and structural stability of the end plate 2, thereby further enhancing the ability of the end plate 2 to resist deformation.

[0133] 5-6 , in some embodiments, an adhesive layer is provided between the end plate frame 22 and the inner wall of the receiving groove 222 .

[0134] For example, the inner wall of the accommodating groove 222 includes the bottom wall of the accommodating groove 222 and the peripheral wall of the accommodating groove 222. Optionally, an adhesive layer is provided between the end plate frame 22 and the bottom wall of the accommodating groove 222, or an adhesive layer is provided between the end plate frame 22 and the peripheral wall of the accommodating groove 222, or an adhesive layer is provided between the end plate frame 22 and the bottom wall of the accommodating groove 222, and an adhesive layer is also provided between the end plate frame 22 and the peripheral wall of the accommodating groove 222.

[0135] In the above technical solution, an adhesive layer is provided between the end plate frame 22 and the inner wall of the receiving groove 222, so that the end plate frame 22 can be stably connected to the inner wall of the receiving groove 222, and the connection method through the adhesive layer is simple and easy to operate.

[0136] 5-6 , in some embodiments, the end plate body 21 includes a plate body 223 and a reinforcing limiting structure 224 , the end plate frame 22 is located on the side of the plate body 223 facing away from the battery cell group 1 , the reinforcing limiting structure 224 is provided on the side of the plate body 223 facing away from the battery cell group 1 , and at least a portion of the accommodating groove 222 is defined between the reinforcing limiting structure 224 and the plate body 223 .

[0137] For example, the entire receiving groove 222 is defined between the reinforcing limiting structure 224 and the plate body 223 ; for example, a portion of the receiving groove 222 is defined between the reinforcing limiting structure 224 and the plate body 223 .

[0138] In the above technical solution, by setting up a reinforced limiting structure 224, the structural strength of the end plate main body 21 can be strengthened, and at the same time, the end plate main body 21 can form a limiting effect on the end plate frame 22; by defining at least a part of the accommodating groove 222 between the reinforced limiting structure 224 and the plate body 223, the structural design of each part of the end plate main body 21 is reasonable and the layout is compact. When the end plate frame 22 is accommodated in the accommodating groove 222, the reinforced limiting structure 224 is also beneficial for the end plate frame 22 to be stably arranged on the end plate main body 21.

[0139] Referring to Figures 5-6, in some embodiments, the reinforced limiting structure 224 includes a reinforcing rib 2241 and a limiting flange 2242, the limiting flange 2242 is connected to the edge of the plate body 223, the reinforcing rib 2241 is distributed on the plate body 223, the limiting flange 2242 and the reinforcing rib 2241 are spaced apart to form a portion of the accommodating groove 222, and the portion of the accommodating groove 222 is defined between the reinforcing ribs 2241.

[0140] Optionally, part of the end plate frame 22 can be accommodated in the accommodating groove 222 between the limiting flange 2242 and the reinforcing rib 2241 , and part of the end frame can be accommodated in the accommodating groove 222 between the reinforcing ribs 2241 .

[0141] The ribs 2241 are arranged to strengthen the structural strength of the plate body 223, thereby improving the structural strength of the end plate body 21. The limiting flange 2242 and the reinforcing ribs 2241 are spaced apart to form a portion of the accommodating groove 222, and the portion of the accommodating groove 222 is defined between the reinforcing ribs 2241. The limiting flange 2242, the reinforcing ribs 2241 and the accommodating groove 222 are arranged reasonably, and different portions of the accommodating groove 222 located at different positions can respectively form a limiting and supporting effect on different positions of the end plate frame 22 accommodated in the accommodating groove 222, which can further make the end plate frame 22 more stably arranged on the end plate body 21.

[0142] Referring to Figures 5-8 , in some embodiments, the end plate body 21 includes a mounting and fixing structure 225 located on the outer periphery of the end plate frame 22. The mounting and fixing structure 225 is provided on the plate body 223. The mounting and fixing structure 225, the reinforcing limiting structure 224, and the plate body 223 collectively define a receiving slot 222. The mounting and fixing structure 225 includes at least one of a fixing portion 2251, an output pole mounting portion 2252, and a circuit board mounting portion 2253. The battery module 100 includes an output pole base 3 and a circuit board 4. The fixing portion 2251 is used to connect to an external component to secure the battery module 100. The output pole mounting portion 2252 is used to mount the output pole base 3. The circuit board mounting portion 2253 is used to secure the circuit board 4. Optionally, the circuit board 4 can be configured as a flexible circuit board.

[0143] For example, a portion of the accommodating slot 222 is defined between the reinforcing limiting structure 224 and the plate body 223 , and another portion of the accommodating slot 222 is defined between the mounting and fixing structure 225 , the reinforcing limiting structure 224 , and the plate body 223 .

[0144] The installation and fixing structure 225 includes at least one of the fixing portion 2251, the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit board mounting portion 2253, which may include the following situations:

[0145] For example, the mounting and fixing structure 225 includes one of the fixing part 2251, the output pole mounting part 2252 and the circuit board mounting part 2253; for example, the mounting and fixing structure 225 includes two of the fixing part 2251, the output pole mounting part 2252 and the circuit board mounting part 2253; for example, the mounting and fixing structure 225 includes three of the fixing part 2251, the output pole mounting part 2252 and the circuit board mounting part 2253.

[0146] In the above technical solution, the end plate body 21 includes an installation and fixing structure 225, and the installation and fixing structure 225 is located on the outer peripheral side of the end plate frame 22 and is arranged on the plate body 223. The installation and fixing structure 225, the reinforced limiting structure 224 and the plate body 223 jointly define a receiving groove 222, so that the end plate frame 22 can be easily arranged on the end plate body 21 through the receiving groove 222.

[0147] By making the mounting and fixing structure 225 include at least one of the fixing portion 2251, the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit mounting portion, more functions are integrated into the end plate body 21. For example, it can be used to install and fix the output pole base 3 or the circuit board, etc., and it is no longer necessary to set up at least one of the fixing portion 2251, the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit mounting portion at other positions of the battery module 100. The number of components of the battery module 100 can be reduced, thereby further simplifying the installation operation of the battery module 100. Moreover, since the end plate body 21 is an insulating member, the mounting and fixing structure 225 has insulation properties. When When the output pole base 3 or the circuit board 4 is installed on the mounting and fixing structure 225, there is no need to set an insulating structure separately between the output pole base 3 and the mounting and fixing structure 225, or there is no need to set an insulating structure separately between the circuit board 4 and the mounting and fixing structure 225; if the mounting and fixing structure 225 is set on the end plate frame 22, it is necessary to set an insulating structure between the end plate frame 22 and the output pole base 3, or it is necessary to set an insulating structure between the end plate frame 22 and the circuit board 4. Therefore, this is also beneficial to reduce the number of components of the battery module 100, thereby helping to simplify the installation operation of the battery module 100.

[0148] 5-7 , in some embodiments, the end plate body 21 includes a plate body 223 and a mounting and fixing structure 225 provided on the plate body 223. The end plate frame 22 is located on a side of the plate body 223 facing away from the battery cell group 1. The mounting and fixing structure 225 is located on the outer periphery of the end plate frame 22. The mounting and fixing structure 225 includes at least one of a fixing portion 2251, an output pole mounting portion 2252, and a circuit board mounting portion 2253. The battery module 100 includes an output pole base 3 and a circuit board 4. The fixing portion 2251 is used to connect to an external component to mount and fix the battery module 100. The output pole mounting portion 2252 is used to mount the output pole base 3. The circuit board mounting portion 2253 is used to fix the circuit board 4.

[0149] The installation and fixing structure 225 includes at least one of the fixing portion 2251, the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit board mounting portion 2253, which may include the following situations:

[0150] For example, the mounting and fixing structure 225 includes one of the fixing part 2251, the output pole mounting part 2252 and the circuit board mounting part 2253; for example, the mounting and fixing structure 225 includes two of the fixing part 2251, the output pole mounting part 2252 and the circuit board mounting part 2253; for example, the mounting and fixing structure 225 includes three of the fixing part 2251, the output pole mounting part 2252 and the circuit board mounting part 2253.

[0151] In the above technical solution, by making the mounting fixing structure 225 include at least one of the fixing portion 2251, the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit mounting portion, more functional components are integrated on the end plate body 21, such as being used to mount the output pole or the circuit board, etc., and it is no longer necessary to set the fixing portion 2251, the output pole mounting portion 2252 and at least one of the circuit mounting portion at other positions of the battery module 100; and since the end plate body 21 is an insulating member, the mounting fixing structure 225 has insulation, and when the output pole base 3 or the circuit board 4 is mounted on the mounting When fixing the structure 225, there is no need to separately set an insulating structure between the output pole base 3 and the mounting fixing structure 225, or there is no need to separately set an insulating structure between the circuit board 4 and the mounting fixing structure 225. If the mounting fixing structure 225 is set on the end plate frame 22, it is necessary to separately set an insulating structure between the end plate frame 22 and the output pole base 3, or it is necessary to separately set an insulating structure between the end plate frame 22 and the circuit board 4. Therefore, this is also beneficial to reduce the number of components of the battery module 100, thereby helping to simplify the installation operation of the battery module 100.

[0152] 5-8 , in some embodiments, the mounting and fixing structure 225 includes an output pole mounting portion 2252 and a circuit board mounting portion 2253, the electrode terminal 111 of the battery cell 11 is located on one side of the battery cell 11 along the second direction, the second direction intersects with the first direction, the circuit board 4 includes a circuit board body 41 and a lead-out portion 42, the circuit board body 41 is located on one side of the battery cell group 1 along the second direction, the lead-out portion 42 is connected to a side of the circuit board body 41 adjacent to one of the end plates 2, the lead-out portion 42 is fixed to the circuit board mounting portion 2253, the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit board mounting portion 2253 are located on the same side of the board body 223 along the second direction.

[0153] For example, the circuit board 4 is a flexible circuit board, which is electrically connected to the battery cell 11 through the circuit board body 41 and electrically connected to an external device through the lead-out portion 42 . The external device can be used to monitor the status of the battery module 100 .

[0154] Optionally, an auxiliary connecting portion 421 is further provided on the lead-out portion 42. The auxiliary connecting portion 421 can be formed as a plastic part. The auxiliary connecting portion 421 is connected to the lead-out portion 42 through an adhesive layer. A first connecting hole 422 is formed on the auxiliary connecting portion 421, and a second connecting hole 2254 is formed on the circuit board mounting portion 2253. By inserting a fastener (such as a rivet 43) through the first connecting hole 422 and the second connecting hole 2254, the lead-out portion 42 can be connected and installed on the circuit board mounting portion 2253.

[0155] Optionally, the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit board mounting portion 2253 are arranged at intervals in the third direction; optionally, the mounting and fixing structure 225 may include two output pole mounting portions 2252, and the two output pole mounting portions 2252 are located on both sides of the circuit board mounting portion 2253 in the third direction.

[0156] In the above technical solution, by making the mounting and fixing structure 225 include the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit board mounting portion 2253, the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit board mounting portion 2253 are integrated on the end plate body 21, which can further improve the integration of the end plate body 21. In addition, the mounting and fixing structure 225 is an insulating member. When the output pole base 3 is mounted on the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit board 4 is mounted on the circuit board mounting portion 2253, it is no longer necessary to set up an additional insulating structure. These are all conducive to reducing the battery module 100 The number of components is reduced, which is beneficial to improving the installation production efficiency of the battery module 100; by making the circuit board 4 include a circuit board body 41 and a lead-out portion 42, and connecting the lead-out portion 42 to a side of the circuit board body 41 adjacent to one of the end plates 2, such an arrangement facilitates the fixation of the lead-out portion 42 to the circuit board mounting portion 2253; by making the output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit board mounting portion 2253 located on the same side of the plate body 223 along the second direction, such an arrangement makes the structure of the end plate body 21 compact, which is beneficial to the miniaturization of the battery module 100.

[0157] 7 , in some embodiments, the mounting and fixing structure 225 includes a fixing portion 2251 , in which a metal sleeve 226 is embedded. The metal sleeve 226 is used to connect with an external component to mount and fix the battery module 100 .

[0158] Optionally, the mounting and fixing structure 225 includes two fixing portions 2251, which are located on opposite sides of the plate body 223 along the second direction. Each fixing portion 2251 includes two fixing holes, which are located at both ends of the mounting and fixing structure 225 along the third direction. For example, the battery module 100 can be connected to the external component by inserting a fastener through the external component (such as the box) and the metal sleeve 226 in the fixing portion 2251 to install and fix the battery module 100.

[0159] In the above technical solution, by embedding the metal sleeve 226 within the fixing portion 2251, the metal sleeve 226 can increase the rigidity and strength of the fixing portion 2251, thereby preventing the fixing portion 2251 from being crushed when the battery module 100 is mounted and fixed to an external component, thereby improving the stability of the mounting and fixing. For example, the battery module 100 can be mounted and fixed to the external component by fastening a fixing bolt to the fixing portion 2251. The metal sleeve 226 can be connected to the fixing bolt to prevent the fixing bolt from crushing the fixing portion 2251 and causing torque decay when the fixing bolt is directly connected to the fixing portion 2251, thereby improving the stability of the connection between the fixing bolt and the fixing portion 2251.

[0160] 5-7 , in some embodiments, the mounting and fixing structure 225 includes an output pole mounting portion 2252 , the output pole mounting portion 2252 is formed with a mounting groove 227 , and the output pole base 3 is mounted in the mounting groove 227 .

[0161] In the above technical solution, the output pole mounting portion 2252 is formed with a mounting groove 227 and the output pole base 3 is mounted in the mounting groove 227 , so that the mounting groove 227 can limit the output pole base 3 , which is beneficial to improving the installation stability of the output pole base 3 .

[0162] 5-7 , in some embodiments, the mounting groove 227 penetrates the output pole mounting portion 2252 along a first direction, guide limit grooves 2271 are formed on opposite side walls of the mounting groove 227 along a third direction, and guide limit protrusions 31 are formed on opposite sides of the output pole base 3 along the third direction, the guide limit protrusions 31 are accommodated in the guide limit grooves 2271, and the third direction intersects with the first direction.

[0163] In the process of installing the output pole base 3 in the mounting groove 227, the output pole base 3 is positioned by the matching relationship between the guide limit protrusion 31 of the output pole base 3 and the guide limit groove 2271 of the mounting groove 227; then the guide limit protrusion 31 is accommodated in the guide limit groove 2271 by sliding along the first direction; thus, the output pole base 3 is installed in the mounting groove 227.

[0164] In the above technical solution, a guide limit groove 2271 is formed on the opposite side walls of the mounting groove 227 along the third direction, and a guide limit protrusion 31 is formed on the opposite sides of the output pole base 3 along the third direction, and the limit protrusion is accommodated in the guide limit groove 2271. The guide limit groove 2271 forms a guiding effect on the guide limit protrusion 31, which is convenient for guiding the output pole base 3 to be installed in the mounting groove 227 along the first direction, and the guide limit groove 2271 forms a limiting effect on the guide limit protrusion 31, which can prevent the output pole base 3 from falling out of the output pole mounting part 2252, which is conducive to the stable installation of the output pole base 3 in the output pole mounting part 2252.

[0165] In some embodiments, the battery module 100 includes an output pole base 3 , which is integrally formed with the end plate body 21 .

[0166] In the above technical solution, by integrally forming the output pole base 3 and the end plate body 21, the integration of the end plate 2 can be further improved, so that there is no need to separately install the output pole base 3 on the end plate body 21, which can further simplify the installation operation of the battery module 100 and is conducive to improving the installation production efficiency of the battery module 100.

[0167] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, in some embodiments, the battery module 100 also includes a fixing belt 5, which is mounted on the outer peripheral sides of the battery cell group 1 and the end plate 2 to fix the end plate 2 to the battery cell group 1. A limiting groove 228 is formed on the end plate body 21, and a portion of the fixing belt 5 is accommodated in the limiting groove 228.

[0168] Optionally, the fixing strap 5 may be made of steel, plastic, or insulating rubber. When a steel strap is used, insulating sleeves are provided between the fixing strap 5 and the corresponding battery cells 11 to provide insulation. For example, the fixing strap 5 is provided around the outer periphery of the battery cell group 1 and the end plate 2 to securely bind the end plate 2 to the battery cell group 1.

[0169] For example, the assembly and production process of the battery module 100 includes the following steps: first, multiple battery cells 11 are arranged side by side in a first direction to form a battery cell group 1; then, two end plates 2 are respectively installed at opposite ends of the battery cell group 1 along the first direction; then, a fixing band 5 is installed around the outer periphery of the battery cell group 1 and the end plates 2, with a portion of the fixing band 5 being accommodated in the limiting groove 228. In this way, the fixing band 5 completes the fixing of the end plates 2 and the battery cell group 1.

[0170] In the above technical solution, the fixing strap 5 is provided to conveniently secure the end plate 2 to the battery cell group 1. Furthermore, by forming a limiting groove 228 on the end plate body 21, a portion of the fixing strap 5 is accommodated in the limiting groove 228, so that the limiting groove 228 can limit the fixing strap 5, thereby reducing or preventing movement of the fixing strap 5 relative to the battery cell group 1 and the end plate 2. This prevents loosening between the end plate 2 and the battery cell group 1 due to movement of the fixing strap 5, thereby improving the stability of the fixation between the end plate 2 and the battery cell group 1. Furthermore, it can also prevent the normal operation of the battery cell 11 module from being affected by loosening of the battery cell group 1.

[0171] 5-6 , in some embodiments, the end plate body 21 includes a plate body 223, a fixing portion 2251 and a limiting flange 2242. The fixing portion 2251 is connected to the edge of the plate body 223 and is located on the outer peripheral side of the end plate frame 22. The fixing portion 2251 is used to install and fix the battery module 100. The limiting flange 2242 is connected to the edge of the plate body 223 and extends in a direction away from the battery cell group 1. The limiting flange 2242 is used to limit the end plate frame 22. The limiting flange 2242 is located on opposite sides of the plate body 223 along the third direction, and the fixing portion 2251 is located on opposite sides of the plate body 223 along the second direction and is connected to both ends of the plate body 223 along the third direction. The limiting flange 2242 and the fixing portion 2251 located on the same side in the third direction are spaced apart in the second direction to form a limiting groove 228 between the limiting flange 2242 and the fixing portion 2251. The first direction, the second direction and the third direction intersect with each other.

[0172] In the above technical solution, by setting the limiting flange 2242, the limiting flange 2242 forms a limiting effect on the end plate frame 22, so that the end plate frame 22 can be stably arranged on the end plate body 21; by making the limiting flange 2242 and the fixing part 2251 located on the same side in the third direction spaced apart in the second direction, so as to form a limiting groove 228 between the limiting flange 2242 and the fixing part 2251, the layout between the limiting flange 2242 and the fixing part 2251 is reasonable, so that the formation method of the limiting groove 228 is simple, and the limiting flange 2242 and the fixing part 2251 can form a limiting effect on the fixing belt 5 accommodated in the limiting groove 228 in the second direction.

[0173] 5-6 , in some embodiments, the end plate body 21 is an integrally formed part.

[0174] In the above technical solution, by forming the end plate body 21 into an integrally molded part, the molding process of the end plate body 21 can be simplified, and there is no need to mold different parts of the end plate body 21 separately and then perform connection operations. For example, there is no need to independently mold the output pole mounting portion 2252, the circuit board mounting portion 2253, etc. on the end plate body 21 and then connect them to the end plate body 21. This is conducive to simplifying the installation operation of the battery module 100, thereby helping to improve the installation production efficiency of the battery module 100.

[0175] 1-2 , in some embodiments, two end plates 2 located at opposite ends of a battery cell group 1 along a first direction are identical.

[0176] In the above technical solution, by making the two end plates 2 located at the opposite ends of the battery cell group 1 along the first direction the same, the two end plates 2 located at the opposite ends of the battery cell group 1 can be used interchangeably, and when installing and producing the battery module 100, there is no need to distinguish the end plates 2 at the two ends before installing them.

[0177] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery, including: the battery module 100 of the embodiment of the first aspect mentioned above.

[0178] In the above technical solution, by providing the above-mentioned battery module 100, the installation and production process of the battery module 100 is simplified, the installation and production efficiency is high, and thus the installation and production efficiency of the battery is also high.

[0179] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an electrical device, including: the battery of the embodiment of the second aspect above.

[0180] In the above technical solution, by setting the above-mentioned battery, the battery includes the above-mentioned battery module 100. Since the installation and production process of the battery module 100 is simplified, the installation and production efficiency of the battery is higher, thereby increasing the production efficiency of the electrical equipment.

[0181] Next, the battery module 100 according to some embodiments of the present application will be described with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 8 .

[0182] 1-8 , in this embodiment, the battery module 100 includes a battery cell group 1 and two end plates 2. The battery cell group 1 includes a plurality of battery cells 11 arranged in parallel along a first direction. The electrode terminals 111 of the plurality of battery cells 11 are all located on one side of the battery cell group 1 along a second direction. The two end plates 2 are arranged at opposite ends of the battery cell group 1 along the first direction.

[0183] The end plate 2 includes an end plate body 21 and an end plate frame 22. The end plate frame 22 is mounted on the end plate body 21 and located on the side of the end plate body 21 facing away from the battery cell group 1. The end plate body 21 is made of plastic, while the end plate frame 22 is made of steel. Specifically, the end plate frame 22 includes a plurality of interconnected metal rods 211. The plurality of metal rods 211 include two first metal rods 2111 and three second metal rods 2112. The two first metal rods 2111 are spaced apart from each other in the third direction. The three second metal rods 2112 are connected between the two first metal rods 2111 and are spaced apart along the length of the first metal rods 2111. The length of the first metal rods 2111 aligns with the second direction.

[0184] The end plate body 21 includes a plate body 223 and a reinforced limiting structure 224. The reinforced limiting structure 224 is arranged on the side of the plate body 223 away from the battery cell group 1. The reinforced limiting structure 224 includes a reinforcing rib 2241 and two limiting flanges 2242. The reinforcing rib 2241 is distributed on the plate body 223. The two limiting flanges 2242 are connected to the two edges of the plate body 223 on opposite sides along the third direction, and the two limiting flanges 2242 extend toward the direction of the plate body 223 away from the battery cell group 1.

[0185] The end plate body 21 also includes a mounting and fixing structure 225, which is disposed on the plate body 223 and located on opposite sides of the plate body 223 along the second direction. The mounting and fixing structure 225 includes two fixing portions 2251, an output pole mounting portion 2252, and a circuit board mounting portion 2253. The two fixing portions 2251 are located on opposite sides of the plate body 223 along the second direction. Each fixing portion 2251 includes two fixing holes, one at each end of the plate body 223 along the third direction. A metal sleeve 226 is embedded in each fixing hole of the fixing portion 2251. The metal sleeve 226 can be used to connect to external components to install and fix the battery module 100.

[0186] The limiting flange 2242 and the fixing portion 2251 located on the same side in the third direction are spaced apart in the second direction, and a limiting groove 228 is formed between the limiting flange 2242 and the fixing portion 2251 .

[0187] The output pole mounting portion 2252 and the circuit board mounting portion 2253 are located on a side of the plate body 223 in the second direction that is close to the electrode terminal 111 of the battery cell 11. In an optional embodiment, the output pole mounting portion 2252 may include two mounting slots 227, which are located on either side of the circuit board mounting portion 2253 in the third direction. The mounting slots 227 extend through the first direction, and guide and limit slots 2271 are formed on opposite side walls of the mounting slot 227 in the third direction. The circuit board mounting portion 2253 is formed with two second connection holes 2254 arranged side by side in the third direction.

[0188] The plate body 223, the reinforcing and limiting structure 224, and the mounting and fixing structure 225 of the end plate body 21 collectively define a receiving groove 222. Part of the receiving groove 222 is defined between the reinforcing ribs 2241, between the reinforcing ribs 2241 and the limiting flange 2242, and between the reinforcing ribs 2241 and the mounting and fixing structure 225. Part of the end plate frame 22 is received within the receiving groove 222. The surface of the metal rod 211 of the end plate frame 22 facing the end plate body 21 is a first mating surface 2113. The surface of the receiving groove 222 of the end plate body 21 opposite the first mating surface 2113 is a second mating surface 221. Both the first mating surface 2113 and the second mating surface 221 are flat surfaces. The first mating surface 2113 contacts the second mating surface 221, and some of the first mating surfaces 2113 and the second mating surfaces 221 are connected by an adhesive layer.

[0189] The battery module 100 also includes an output pole base 3 and a circuit board 4. The output pole base 3 is mounted on the output pole mounting portion 2252, and the circuit board 4 is fixed to the circuit board mounting portion 2253. The output pole base 3 is formed with guide and stop protrusions 31 on opposite sides along the third direction. The output pole base 3 can be mounted in the mounting slot 227 along the first direction, with the guide and stop protrusions 31 received in the guide and stop grooves 2271 of the mounting slot 227. The circuit board 4 includes a circuit board body 41 and a lead portion 42. The circuit board body 41 is located on one side of the battery cell group 1 along the second direction and is electrically connected to the battery cell group 1. The lead portion 42 is connected to a side of the circuit board body 41 adjacent to one of the end plates 2. An auxiliary connecting portion 421 is also connected to the lead portion 42. The auxiliary connecting portion 421 is formed as a plate-like structure and is formed as a plastic insulating member. Two first connecting holes 422 are formed in parallel along the third direction on the auxiliary connecting portion 421. The two first connection holes 422 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the two second connection holes 2254 on the circuit board mounting portion 2253. By passing the rivets 43 through the first connection holes 422 and the second connection holes 2254, the lead-out portion 42 of the circuit board 4 can be fixed on the circuit board mounting portion 2253.

[0190] The battery module 100 also includes a fixing belt 5, which is made of a steel belt. The fixing belt 5 is sleeved on the outer peripheral sides of the battery cell group 1 and the end plate 2 to bundle and fix the end plate 2 and the battery cell group 1. A limiting groove 228 is formed on the end plate body 21, and part of the fixing belt 5 is accommodated in the limiting groove 228. An insulating bushing is also provided between the fixing belt 5 and the battery cell group 1.

[0191] Throughout this specification, reference to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiments," "examples," "specific examples," or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0192] Although the embodiments of the present application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes, modifications, substitutions, and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the principles and intent of the present application, and that the scope of the present application is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A battery module, wherein: include: a battery cell group, comprising a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction; The end plate is arranged at the opposite ends of the battery cell group along the first direction. The end plate includes an end plate body and an end plate frame arranged on the end plate body. The end plate body is an insulating part, and the end plate frame is a metal part. The end plate frame is located on the side of the end plate body away from the battery cell group.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein: The end plate frame is a steel part; and / or the end plate body is a plastic part.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein: The end plate skeleton includes a plurality of metal rods connected to each other, and at least some of the metal rods are connected to the end plate body.

4. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein: The metal rods are formed into a hollow structure; and / or the metal rods are welded to each other.

5. The battery module according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The plurality of metal rods include two first metal rods and at least one second metal rod, the two first metal rods are arranged opposite to each other and spaced apart, and the second metal rod is connected between the two first metal rods.

6. The battery module according to claim 5, wherein: There are multiple second metal rods, and the multiple second metal rods are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the first metal rod.

7. The battery module according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein: The surface of the metal rod facing the end plate body is a first mating surface, and the surface of the end plate body opposite to the first mating surface is a second mating surface. The first mating surface is in contact with the second mating surface or is connected via an adhesive layer.

8. The battery module according to claim 7, wherein: The first mating surface and / or the second mating surface is a plane.

9. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: An accommodating groove is formed on the end plate body, and at least a portion of the end plate frame is accommodated in the accommodating groove.

10. The battery module according to claim 9, wherein: An adhesive layer is provided between the end plate frame and the inner wall of the accommodating groove.

11. The battery module according to claim 9 or 10, wherein: The end plate body includes a plate body and a reinforcing limiting structure. The end plate frame is located on the side of the plate body away from the battery cell group. The reinforcing limiting structure is provided on the side of the plate body away from the battery cell group. The reinforcing limiting structure and the plate body define at least a portion of the accommodating groove.

12. The battery module according to claim 11, wherein: The reinforced limiting structure includes reinforcing ribs and limiting flanges, the limiting flanges are connected to the edge of the plate body, the reinforcing ribs are distributed on the plate body, the limiting flanges and the reinforcing ribs are spaced apart to form a portion of the accommodating groove, and the portion of the accommodating groove is defined between the reinforcing ribs.

13. The battery module according to claim 11, wherein: The end plate body includes a mounting and fixing structure, the mounting and fixing structure is located on the outer peripheral side of the end plate frame, the mounting and fixing structure is provided on the plate body, the mounting and fixing structure, the reinforcing limiting structure and the plate body jointly define the accommodating groove, the mounting and fixing structure includes at least one of a fixing portion, an output pole mounting portion and a circuit board mounting portion; The battery module includes an output pole base and a circuit board, the fixing portion is used to connect with an external component to install and fix the battery module, the output pole mounting portion is used to install the output pole base, and the circuit board mounting portion is used to install the output pole base. For fixing the circuit board.

14. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The end plate body includes a plate body and a mounting and fixing structure provided on the plate body, the end plate frame is located on a side of the plate body away from the battery cell group, the mounting and fixing structure is located on the outer periphery of the end plate frame, and the mounting and fixing structure includes at least one of a fixing portion, an output pole mounting portion, and a circuit board mounting portion; The battery module includes an output pole base and a circuit board, the fixing portion is used to connect with an external component to install and fix the battery module, the output pole mounting portion is used to install the output pole base, and the circuit board mounting portion is used to fix the circuit board.

15. The battery module according to claim 14, wherein: The mounting and fixing structure includes the output pole mounting portion and the circuit board mounting portion, the electrode terminal of the battery cell is located on one side of the battery cell along the second direction, the second direction intersects with the first direction, the circuit board includes a circuit board body and a lead-out portion, the circuit board body is located on one side of the battery cell group along the second direction, the lead-out portion is connected to a side of the circuit board body adjacent to one of the end plates, the lead-out portion is fixed to the circuit board mounting portion, and the output pole mounting portion and the circuit board mounting portion are located on the same side of the board body along the second direction.

16. The battery module according to claim 14, wherein: The installation and fixing structure includes the fixing portion, wherein a metal sleeve is embedded in the fixing portion, and the metal sleeve is used to connect with an external component to install and fix the battery module.

17. The battery module according to claim 14, wherein: The mounting and fixing structure includes the output pole mounting portion, the output pole mounting portion is formed with a mounting groove, and the output pole base is mounted in the mounting groove.

18. The battery module according to claim 17, wherein: The mounting groove passes through the output pole mounting portion along the first direction, and guide limit grooves are formed on the opposite side walls of the mounting groove along the third direction. Guide limit protrusions are formed on the opposite sides of the output pole base along the third direction, and the guide limit protrusions are accommodated in the guide limit grooves. The third direction intersects with the first direction.

19. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The battery module includes an output pole base, and the output pole base is integrally formed with the end plate body.

20. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein: It also includes a fixing belt, which is sleeved on the outer periphery of the battery cell group and the end plate to fix the end plate to the battery cell group. A limiting groove is formed on the end plate body, and part of the fixing belt is accommodated in the limiting groove.

21. The battery module according to claim 20, wherein: The end plate body includes a plate body, a fixing portion, and a limiting flange, wherein the fixing portion is connected to the edge of the plate body and is located on the outer peripheral side of the end plate frame, the fixing portion is used to install and fix the battery module, the limiting flange is connected to the edge of the plate body and extends in a direction away from the battery cell group, and the limiting flange is used to limit the end plate frame; The limiting flange is located on two opposite sides of the plate body along the third direction, the fixing portion is located on two opposite sides of the plate body along the second direction and is connected to both ends of the plate body along the third direction, the limiting flange and the fixing portion located on the same side of the third direction are spaced apart in the second direction to form the limiting groove between the limiting flange and the fixing portion, and the first direction, the second direction and the third direction intersect with each other.

22. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein: The end plate body is an integrally formed part.

23. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein: The two end plates located at opposite ends of the battery cell group along the first direction are identical.

24. A battery, wherein: include: A battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 23.

25. An electrical device, wherein: include: The battery according to claim 24.

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