Battery module, battery, and electric device

Abstract

The present application provides a battery module, a battery, and an electric device. The battery module comprises a plurality of battery cells, two end plates, restraining parts, and protection parts; the plurality of battery cells are arranged in a first direction; the two end plates are respectively arranged at the two ends of the plurality of battery cells in the first direction; the restraining parts surround the two end plates and the plurality of battery cells; the protection parts are connected to the restraining parts, and the protection parts are used for preventing the battery cells from being electrically connected to the end plates by means of the restraining parts.

Description

Battery modules, batteries and power-consuming devices

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202420572318.6, entitled “Battery Module, Battery and Electrical Device” filed on March 22, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

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

[0004] With the development of new energy technology, batteries are used more and more widely, for example, in mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes and power tools.

[0005] In battery modules, restraints are typically used to tie multiple battery cells to end plates to ensure expansion resistance. However, during use, there's a risk that a battery cell could become electrically conductive with the end plate through the restraints, causing a short circuit within the battery and impacting normal operation. Therefore, effectively minimizing the risk of electrical conductivity between battery cells and end plates through restraints in battery modules is a pressing issue in battery technology. 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 effectively reduce the risk of battery cells in the battery module being electrically connected to the end plates through the binding components, thereby improving the reliability of the battery module.

[0007] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery module, which includes a plurality of battery cells, two end plates, a restraining component and a protective component. The plurality of battery cells are arranged along a first direction, and the two end plates are respectively arranged at both ends of the plurality of battery cells along the first direction. The restraining component is arranged around the two end plates and the plurality of battery cells, and the protective component is connected to the restraining component. The protective component is used to prevent the battery cells from being electrically conductive with the end plates through the restraining component.

[0008] The above technical solution can effectively reduce the risk of the battery cells in the battery module being electrically connected to the end plates through the restraining components by providing the protective components, thereby improving the reliability of the battery module.

[0009] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the protection component includes a first protection component configured to insulate at least one of the battery cell and the end plate from the restraining component.

[0010] The first protective member of the above technical solution has a simple structure and low cost. By providing the first protective member to insulate at least one of the battery cell and the end plate from the restraining component, it is beneficial to reduce the overall preparation cost of the battery module.

[0011] In some embodiments of the first aspect, at least a portion of the first protective member is clamped between the restraining member and the end plate, and insulates the restraining member from the end plate.

[0012] The above technical solution uses the first protective member to specifically insulate and isolate the restraining component from the end plate, which can reduce the usage of the first protective member, thereby further helping to reduce the overall manufacturing cost of the battery module.

[0013] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first protective member includes a main body and two extensions. The main body is connected between the restraining member and the end plate. Side edges of the main body along the second direction overlap with side edges of the restraining member along the second direction, and the first direction intersects the second direction. The two extensions are respectively connected to side edges of the main body along the second direction and extend along the second direction.

[0014] The above technical solution can reduce the risk of creepage between the restraining component and the end plate by providing the extension part, thereby further reducing the risk of battery cells in the battery module being electrically connected to the end plate through the restraining component.

[0015] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first protective element extends along an extension direction of the tie member and covers an inner surface of the tie member.

[0016] The first protective member of the above technical solution can insulate the restraining component from the battery cell, as well as the restraining component from the end plate, thereby further improving the insulating isolation effect of the first protective member on the restraining component, so as to further reduce the risk of the battery cell in the battery module being electrically connected to the end plate through the restraining component.

[0017] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first protective member covers the entire restraining component, which can further improve the insulation and isolation effect of the first protective member on the restraining component.

[0018] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the protective component includes a second protective member, the restraining component includes a first end and a second end along its extension direction, and the second protective member is connected to the first end and the second end. The second protective member is configured to disconnect the first end and the second end in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell.

[0019] The above technical solution sets up a second protective member. When thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell, the second protective member can directly disconnect the restraining member to separate the restraining member from the battery cell and the end plate, thereby preventing the battery cell from being electrically connected to the end plate through the restraining member. This method has high stability and can further reduce risks.

[0020] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the second protective member is configured to disconnect the first end and the second end when the temperature reaches a first threshold.

[0021] When a battery cell experiences thermal runaway, temperature changes are more noticeable and sensitive. By configuring the second protection element to disconnect the first and second ends when the temperature reaches a first threshold, the sensitivity and response speed of the second protection element in disconnecting the restraining component when a battery cell experiences thermal runaway can be further improved.

[0022] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the battery module further includes a detection component and a control component, wherein the second protection component, the detection component, and the control component are communicatively connected, and the detection component is configured to detect a temperature of the battery cell. The control component is configured to control the second protection component to disconnect the first end from the second end when a temperature value obtained by the detection component reaches a first threshold.

[0023] The above technical solution can further improve the sensitivity and reliability of the second protective member in cutting off the restraining member when the battery cell produces thermal runaway by providing a detection member to perform real-time detection on the battery cell and controlling the second protective member to cut off the restraining member through a control member.

[0024] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the protective component further includes a third protective member, the restraining component further includes a third end and a fourth end along its extension direction, and the third protective member is connected to the third end and the fourth end. The third protective member is configured to disconnect the third end and the fourth end in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell.

[0025] The above technical solution provides a third protective member. When thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell, the third protective member can disconnect the connection between the third end and the fourth end of the restraint member. Combined with the effect of the second protective member disconnecting the connection between the first end and the second end of the restraint member, the restraint member can be more easily separated from the battery cell and the end plate, thereby further reducing the risk of the battery cell in the battery module being electrically connected to the end plate through the restraint member.

[0026] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the second protection member and the third protection member are respectively located on a side of the two end plates facing away from the battery cells.

[0027] This arrangement prevents the second protective member and the third protective member from interfering with the battery cell, thereby reducing damage to the battery cell.

[0028] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the restraint component includes two first segments and two second segments, the two first segments are respectively connected to the two end plates, each second segment is connected to the two first segments, and the first segment is an insulator.

[0029] The above technical solution sets the first section as an insulator, making it difficult for a current path to form between the end plate and the restraining component, thereby further reducing the risk of the battery cells in the battery module being electrically connected to the end plate through the restraining component.

[0030] In a second aspect, the present application provides a battery, which includes the battery module provided by any embodiment of the first aspect.

[0031] In a third aspect, the present application provides an electrical device comprising a battery provided in any embodiment of the second aspect, the battery being used to provide electrical energy.

[0032] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of the present application. In order to more clearly understand the technical means of the present application, it can be implemented in accordance with the contents of the specification. In order to make the above and other purposes, features and advantages of the present application more obvious and easy to understand, the specific implementation methods of the present application are listed below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the detailed description of the preferred embodiment below. The accompanying drawings are for illustration purposes only and are not to be considered as limiting the present application. The same reference symbols are used throughout the drawings to represent the same components. In the drawings:

[0034] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0035] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of an exploded structure of a battery provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0036] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional structure of a battery module provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0037] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of a partially enlarged structure of point H in FIG3 ;

[0038] FIG5 is a schematic side view of a battery module provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0039] FIG6 is a schematic diagram of the explosion structure of the local restraining component and the protective component shown in FIG4;

[0040] FIG7 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of another battery module provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0041] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional structure of a restraining component and a protective component of another battery module provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0042] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a restraining component of another battery module provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0043] The accompanying drawings in the specific implementation manner are as follows:

[0044] 1. Vehicle; 2. Battery; 3. Controller; 4. Motor; 5. Housing; 5a. First housing portion; 5b. Second housing portion; 5c. Accommodation space; 6. Battery module; 7. Battery cell;

[0045] 10. End plate; 20. Constraint component; 21. First end; 22. Second end; 23. Third end; 24. Fourth end; 25. First section; 26. Second section; 30. Protective component; 31. First protective member; 311. Main body; 312. Extension portion; 32. Second protective member; 33. Third protective member; 40. Detection component; 50. Control component; X, first direction; Y, second direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] 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 and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying 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.

[0047] 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 only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] The term "plurality" used in this application refers to two or more (including two).

[0053] In this application, the term "parallel" includes not only the absolutely parallel situation, but also the roughly parallel situation conventionally recognized in engineering; at the same time, "vertical" also includes not only the absolutely vertical situation, but also the roughly vertical situation conventionally recognized in engineering.

[0054] In this application, battery cells may include lithium-ion secondary battery cells, lithium-ion primary battery cells, lithium-sulfur battery cells, sodium-lithium-ion battery cells, sodium-ion battery cells, or magnesium-ion battery cells, and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto. Battery cells may be cylindrical, flat, rectangular, or in other shapes, and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto.

[0055] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of the present application may include one or more battery cells to provide a single physical module with higher voltage and capacity. When there are multiple battery cells, the multiple battery cells are connected in series, in parallel or in hybrid through a busbar.

[0056] In some embodiments, the battery may be a battery module; when there are multiple battery cells, the multiple battery cells are arranged and fixed to form a battery module.

[0057] In some embodiments, the battery may be a battery pack, which includes a case and battery cells, wherein the battery cells or battery modules are housed in the case.

[0058] In some embodiments, the box body can be used as a part of the chassis structure of the vehicle. For example, part of the box body can become at least a part of the floor of the vehicle, or part of the box body can become at least a part of the cross beam and longitudinal beam of the vehicle.

[0059] In some embodiments, the battery may be an energy storage device, including an energy storage container, an energy storage cabinet, and the like.

[0060] With the development of new energy technology, batteries are used more and more widely, for example, in mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric airplanes, electric ships, electric toy cars, electric toy ships, electric toy airplanes and power tools.

[0061] In battery modules, restraints are typically used to tie multiple battery cells to end plates to ensure expansion resistance. However, during use, there is a risk that a battery cell could become electrically conductive with the end plate through the restraints, causing a short circuit within the battery and impacting normal operation.

[0062] At present, steel belts are usually used as restraining components. When a battery cell in a battery module experiences thermal runaway, the temperature will rise and the blue film on the outer surface of the battery cell will melt, causing the steel belt to overlap with the outer shell of the battery cell, thereby causing the battery cell to be electrically conductive with the end plate through the steel belt, which in turn makes it easy for a short circuit to occur between the battery cell and other electrical components in the battery, affecting the reliability of the battery.

[0063] Based on the above considerations, the present application designs a battery module, which includes a plurality of battery cells, two end plates, a restraining component, and a protective component. The plurality of battery cells are arranged along a first direction, and the two end plates are respectively provided at both ends of the plurality of battery cells along the first direction. The restraining component is provided around the two end plates and the plurality of battery cells. The protective component is connected to the restraining component, and the protective component is used to prevent the battery cells from electrically conducting with the end plates through the restraining component. In this way, by providing the protective component, the risk of the battery cells in the battery module being electrically conducted with the end plates through the restraining component is effectively reduced, thereby improving the reliability of the battery module.

[0064] The technical solutions described in the embodiments of the present application are applicable to batteries and electrical devices using batteries.

[0065] Electrical devices may include vehicles, mobile phones, portable devices, laptop computers, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and electric tools, etc. Vehicles may include fuel vehicles, gas vehicles, or new energy vehicles. New energy vehicles may include pure electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, or extended-range vehicles, etc. Spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc. Electric toys include fixed or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Electric tools include metal cutting electric tools, grinding electric tools, assembly electric tools, and railway electric tools, such as electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, impact drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers, etc. The embodiments of the present application do not impose any special restrictions on the above-mentioned electrical devices.

[0066] It should be understood that the technical solutions described in the embodiments of the present application are not limited to the batteries and electrical equipment described above, but can also be applied to all batteries including battery boxes and electrical equipment using batteries. However, for the sake of simplicity, the following embodiments are explained using electric vehicles as an example.

[0067] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a vehicle provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0068] 1 , a battery 2 is provided inside the vehicle 1 , and the battery 2 may be provided at the bottom, head, or tail of the vehicle 1 . The battery 2 may be used to power the vehicle 1 , for example, the battery 2 may serve as an operating power source for the vehicle 1 .

[0069] The vehicle 1 may further include a controller 3 and a motor 4 . The controller 3 is used to control the battery 2 to supply power to the motor 4 , for example, to meet the power requirements of the vehicle 1 during startup, navigation, and driving.

[0070] In some embodiments of the present application, the battery 2 can not only serve as the operating power source of the vehicle 1, but also serve as the driving power source of the vehicle 1, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1.

[0071] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of an explosion of a battery provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0072] 2 , the battery 2 includes a battery case 5 and battery cells, and the battery cells are accommodated in the battery case 5 .

[0073] The battery case 5 is used to accommodate battery cells and can have various structures. In some embodiments, the battery case 5 can include a first case portion 5a and a second case portion 5b. The first case portion 5a and the second case portion 5b overlap each other, and the first case portion 5a and the second case portion 5b together define a storage space 5c for accommodating the battery cells. The second case portion 5b can be a hollow structure with one end open. The first case portion 5a is a plate-like structure, and the first case portion 5a overlaps the open side of the second case portion 5b to form the battery case 5 with the storage space 5c. The first case portion 5a and the second case portion 5b can also be hollow structures with one end open. The open side of the first case portion 5a overlaps the open side of the second case portion 5b to form the battery case 5 with the storage space 5c. Of course, the first case portion 5a and the second case portion 5b can have various shapes, such as a cylinder, a rectangular parallelepiped, etc.

[0074] In order to improve the sealing performance after the first box body 5a and the second box body 5b are connected, a sealing member, such as a sealant, a sealing ring, etc., may also be provided between the first box body 5a and the second box body 5b.

[0075] Assuming that the first box body portion 5a covers the top of the second box body portion 5b, the first box body portion 5a can also be called an upper box cover, and the second box body portion 5b can also be called a lower box body.

[0076] In battery 2, there can be one or more battery cells. If there are multiple battery cells, they can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid configuration. A hybrid configuration refers to a combination of series and parallel connections. Multiple battery cells can be directly connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid configuration, and then the entire battery cell structure is housed within a battery case 5. Alternatively, multiple battery cells can be first connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid configuration to form a battery module 6, and then multiple battery modules 6 can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a hybrid configuration to form a single unit and housed within the battery case 5.

[0077] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a battery module provided in some embodiments of the present application, Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the local enlarged structure at H in Figure 3, Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the side view structure of a battery module provided in some embodiments of the present application, and Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the explosion structure of the local restraining component and the protective component shown in Figure 4.

[0078] Continuing to refer to Figures 3 to 6, an embodiment of the present application provides a battery module 6, which includes multiple battery cells 7, two end plates 10, a restraining component 20 and a protective component 30. The multiple battery cells 7 are arranged along a first direction X, and the two end plates 10 are respectively arranged at both ends of the multiple battery cells 7 along the first direction X. The restraining component 20 is arranged around the two end plates 10 and the multiple battery cells 7. The protective component 30 is connected to the restraining component 20. The protective component 30 is used to prevent the battery cells 7 from being electrically connected to the end plates 10 through the restraining component 20.

[0079] Exemplarily, the main function of the end plate 10 is to fix and protect the battery cell 7. The end plate 10 can be made of, but is not limited to, metal or non-metallic materials. For example, the metal material can be copper, aluminum or stainless steel, etc.; the non-metallic material can be polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride or wood, etc.

[0080] In one example, the battery module 6 further includes two side plates, which are respectively disposed on either side of the plurality of battery cells 7. The two end plates 10 and the two side plates are interconnected to form an accommodation space, in which the plurality of battery cells 7 are accommodated. The two end plates 10 and the two side plates can constrain the battery cells 7. Optionally, the side plates can be made of the same material as the end plates 10 to simplify the manufacturing process and help reduce costs.

[0081] The restraining member 20 surrounds and surrounds the two end plates 10 and the battery cells 7. The restraining member 20 constrains and secures the two end plates 10 and the battery cells 7. This improves the structural stability of the battery module 6, reduces deformation or displacement caused by expansion of the battery cells 7, and enhances battery reliability.

[0082] The restraining member 20 can be made of a resilient metal material, such as steel, aluminum alloy, nickel-titanium alloy, beryllium-copper alloy, or manganese-copper alloy. For example, the restraining member 20 comprises an annular steel strip connected end-to-end to form a ring structure that is sleeved and connected to the two end plates 10 and multiple battery cells 7. The steel strip is easy to install and has high structural strength, thereby significantly improving the structural stability of the battery module 6.

[0083] However, when the battery cell 7 in the battery module 6 experiences thermal runaway, the temperature will rise and the blue film on the outer shell surface of the battery cell 7 will melt, causing the steel strip to overlap with the outer shell of the battery cell 7, thereby causing the battery cell 7 to be electrically conductive with the end plate 10 through the steel strip, and thus making it easy for a short circuit to occur between the battery cell 7 and other electrical components in the battery, affecting the reliability of the battery module 6.

[0084] Thus, the embodiment of the present application provides a protective component 30 to reduce the risk of electrical conduction between the battery cells 7 in the battery module 6 and the end plate 10 through the restraining component 20. The protective component 30 is connected to the restraining component 20. The protective component 30 can be detachably connected to the restraining component 20 or integrally provided on the restraining component 20. The protective component 30 can be directly connected to the restraining component 20 or restrained to the restraining component 20 by other components. By way of example, the connection method between the protective component 30 and the restraining component 20 can be, but is not limited to, bolting, welding, riveting, clamping, or bonding.

[0085] The protection component 30 can be arranged in a variety of ways to prevent the battery cells 7 from being electrically connected to the end plates 10 through the restraining components 20 .

[0086] In one example, the protective component 30 may be made of a high-temperature resistant insulating material. The protective component 30 insulates at least one of the battery cell 7 and the end plate 10 from the restraining component 20, thereby preventing the battery cell 7 from electrically conducting with the end plate 10 through the restraining component 20. For example, the protective component 30 made of a high-temperature resistant insulating material insulates the battery cell 7 from the restraining component 20, or the protective component 30 made of a high-temperature resistant insulating material insulates the end plate 10 from the restraining component 20, or the protective component 30 made of a high-temperature resistant insulating material insulates both the battery cell 7 from the restraining component 20 and the end plate 10 from the restraining component 20. Among them, the melting point of the high-temperature resistant insulating material used to prepare the protective component 30 is greater than or equal to 400 degrees Celsius. As an example, the melting point of the high-temperature resistant insulating material used to prepare the protective component 30 can be but is not limited to 400 degrees Celsius, 800 degrees Celsius, 1200 degrees Celsius, 1600 degrees Celsius, 2000 degrees Celsius, 2500 degrees Celsius, 3000 degrees Celsius, 4000 degrees Celsius, 5000 degrees Celsius, etc.

[0087] In another example, the protection component 30 can prevent the battery cell 7 from electrically conducting with the end plate 10 through the restraining component 20 by cutting off the current in the restraining component 20 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 7. For example, a fuse or a detachable clip can be used as the protection component 30 to physically cut off the restraining component 20 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 7, separating the restraining component 20 from the battery cell 7 and the end plate 10, thereby preventing the battery cell 7 from electrically conducting with the end plate 10 through the restraining component 20. Alternatively, an electromagnetic relay or a mechanical circuit breaker can be used as the protection component 30 to cut off the current path in the restraining component 20 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 7, thereby preventing the battery cell 7 from electrically conducting with the end plate 10 through the restraining component 20.

[0088] The above technical solution can effectively reduce the risk of the battery cells 7 in the battery module 6 being electrically connected to the end plates 10 through the restraining components 20 by providing the protection component 30 , thereby improving the reliability of the battery module 6 .

[0089] In some embodiments, the protection component 30 includes a first protection member 31 , and the first protection member 31 is used to insulate and isolate at least one of the battery cell 7 and the end plate 10 from the restraining member 20 .

[0090] Exemplarily, the first protective member 31 can be clamped and connected between the restraining part 20 and the battery cell 7 to insulate the battery cell 7 from the restraining part 20. The first protective member 31 can also be clamped and connected between the restraining part 20 and the end plate 10 to insulate the end plate 10 from the restraining part 20. The first protective member 31 can also be clamped and connected between the restraining part 20 and the battery cell 7, and between the restraining part 20 and the end plate 10, to simultaneously insulate the battery cell 7 from the restraining part 20, and the end plate 10 from the restraining part 20.

[0091] The first protective member 31 may be, but is not limited to, a plate-like structure, a film-like structure, or a block-like structure. The first protective member 31 is made of a high-temperature resistant insulating material, such as ceramic, mineral fiber, asbestos, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, silicone rubber, mica, quartz, or a thermally conductive composite tape. The melting point of the high-temperature resistant insulating material is greater than or equal to 400 degrees Celsius. For example, the melting point of the high-temperature resistant insulating material used to prepare the protective member 30 may be, but is not limited to, 400 degrees Celsius, 800 degrees Celsius, 1200 degrees Celsius, 1600 degrees Celsius, 2000 degrees Celsius, 2500 degrees Celsius, 3000 degrees Celsius, 4000 degrees Celsius, or 5000 degrees Celsius.

[0092] The first protective member 31 of the above technical solution has a simple structure and low cost. By providing the first protective member 31 to insulate at least one of the battery cell 7 and the end plate 10 from the restraining member 20, it is beneficial to reduce the overall preparation cost of the battery module 6.

[0093] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first protective member 31 is clamped between the restraining member 20 and the end plate 10 , and insulates the restraining member 20 from the end plate 10 .

[0094] For example, a portion of the first protective member 31 may be clamped between the restraining part 20 and the end plate 10 to insulate and isolate the end plate 10 from the restraining part 20, or the entire first protective member 31 may be clamped between the restraining part 20 and the end plate 10 to insulate and isolate the end plate 10 from the restraining part 20.

[0095] It can be understood that the number of battery cells 7 in the battery module 6 can be multiple. As the number of battery cells 7 increases, the contact area between the restraining component 20 and the battery cell 7 will also increase. The contact area between the restraining component 20 and the end plate 10 is relatively small compared to the contact area between the restraining component 20 and the battery cell 7. Therefore, the amount of the first protective component 31 required for insulating and isolating the restraining component 20 and the end plate 10 is relatively small.

[0096] In this way, the above technical solution can reduce the usage of the first protective member 31 by using the first protective member 31 to specifically insulate and isolate the restraining component 20 from the end plate 10, thereby helping to further reduce the overall preparation cost of the battery module 6.

[0097] In some embodiments, the first protective member 31 includes a main body 311 and two extensions 312. The main body 311 is connected between the restraining member 20 and the end plate 10. The two side edges of the main body 311 along the second direction Y overlap with the two side edges of the restraining member 20 along the second direction Y. The first direction X intersects the second direction Y. The two extensions 312 are respectively connected to the two side edges of the main body 311 along the second direction Y and extend along the second direction Y.

[0098] Exemplarily, the main portion 311 is the primary functional portion of the first protector 31, used to insulate the restraining member 20 from the end plate 10. The extension portion 312 is the functional portion of the first protector 31, used to meet creepage distance requirements. In other words, the main portion 311 can be understood as the portion of the first protector 31 located between the restraining member 20 and the end plate 10, while the extension portion 312 can be understood as the portion of the first protector 31 that extends beyond the two side edges of the restraining member 20 along the second direction Y. Optionally, the first direction X is perpendicular to the second direction Y.

[0099] It should be noted that creepage refers to the phenomenon whereby current leaks along the surface of the first protective member 31 due to voltage. Creepage distance refers to the minimum distance between the restraining member 20 and the end plate 10, established to reduce the risk of electrical conduction caused by creepage. The length of the creepage distance is positively correlated with the voltage applied to the restraining member 20 after the battery cell 7 and restraining member 20 are electrically connected. The higher the voltage, the longer the required creepage distance.

[0100] A dimension L of the extension portion 312 along the second direction Y is greater than the creepage distance required by the first protective member 31. Optionally, the dimension L of the extension portion 312 along the second direction Y satisfies the relationship: 0.8 mm ≤ L ≤ 700 mm. As an example, the dimension L of the extension portion 312 along the second direction Y can be, but is not limited to, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, 50 mm, 100 mm, 300 mm, 700 mm, etc.

[0101] Furthermore, a dimension L of the extension portion 312 along the second direction Y satisfies the relationship: 1.3 mm ≤ L ≤ 500 mm. As an example, the dimension L of the extension portion 312 along the second direction Y may be, but is not limited to, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.5 mm, 275 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 5.5 mm, 6 mm, 6.5 mm, 7 mm, 7.5 mm, 8 mm, 8.5 mm, 9 mm, 9.5 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm, 300 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 600 mm, 700 mm, etc.

[0102] The extension portion 312 can be detachably connected to the main portion 311 or integrally provided on the main portion 311. The extension portion 312 can be directly connected to the main portion 311 or secured to the main portion 311 by other components. As an example, the connection between the extension portion 312 and the main portion 311 can be, but is not limited to, bolting, welding, riveting, clamping, or bonding.

[0103] Optionally, the main portion 311 and the extension portion 312 are integrally formed. This eliminates the need for an additional joining process to connect the main portion 311 and the extension portion 312, simplifying the manufacturing process. Furthermore, the integral structure provides a stronger connection between the main portion 311 and the extension portion 312 than would be achieved by using an additional joining process.

[0104] The above technical solution can reduce the risk of creepage between the restraining component 20 and the end plate 10 by providing the extension portion 312 , thereby further reducing the risk of the battery cells 7 in the battery module 6 being electrically connected to the end plate 10 through the restraining component 20 .

[0105] In some embodiments, the first protection member 31 extends along the extending direction of the tie member 20 and covers the inner side surface of the tie member 20 .

[0106] Exemplarily, the first protective member 31 covers the entire inner surface of the restraint member 20 , where the inner surface of the restraint member 20 refers to a surface of the restraint member 20 facing the battery cell 7 and the end plate 10 .

[0107] The first protective member 31 of the above technical solution can insulate the binding component 20 from the battery cell 7, and the binding component 20 from the end plate 10, thereby further improving the insulation isolation effect of the first protective member 31 on the binding component 20, so as to further reduce the risk of electrical conduction between the battery cell 7 in the battery module 6 and the end plate 10 through the binding component 20.

[0108] In some embodiments, the first protective member 31 covers the entire restraint component 20 .

[0109] Exemplarily, the first protective member 31 can cover the entire surface of the restraining component 20 , which can further improve the insulation and isolation effect of the first protective member 31 on the restraining component 20 .

[0110] As an example, the first protective member 31 is a film-layered structure made of high-temperature resistant insulating material. The entire surface of the restraining component 20 can be covered with high-temperature resistant insulating material through a dipping process, or the entire surface of the restraining component 20 can be covered with high-temperature resistant insulating material through a spraying process.

[0111] As another example, the first protective member 31 is a plate-shaped structure made of a high-temperature resistant insulating material. The entire surface of the restraining component 20 may be covered with the first protective member 31 having a plate-shaped structure through an attachment process.

[0112] FIG7 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of another battery module 6 provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0113] Continuing with FIG7 , in some embodiments, the protective component 30 includes a second protective member 32. The restraining component 20 includes a first end 21 and a second end 22 along its extension direction. The second protective member 32 is connected to the first end 21 and the second end 22. The second protective member 32 is configured to disconnect the first end 21 and the second end 22 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 7.

[0114] Exemplarily, the restraining part 20 can be a strip-like structure, and the two ends of the restraining part 20 along its own extension direction are respectively a first end 21 and a second end 22, and the second protective member 32 is connected to the first end 21 and the second end 22, so that the restraining part 20 and the second protective member 32 together form a closed ring structure.

[0115] The second protective member 32 can be, but is not limited to, a thermal fuse disconnection mechanism, a thermal expansion disconnection mechanism, or a current fuse disconnection mechanism, so as to disconnect the connection between the first end 21 and the second end 22 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 7, so that the restraining component 20 has a strip-like structure, so that the restraining component 20 is separated from the battery cell 7 and the end plate 10, thereby preventing the battery cell 7 from being electrically connected to the end plate 10 through the restraining component 20.

[0116] As an example, in the case where the second protection member 32 is a thermal fuse disconnection mechanism, the second protection member 32 may include a thermal fuse, and when thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell 7 and when the surrounding of the thermal fuse reaches a certain temperature, the thermal fuse itself melts to disconnect the first end 21 and the second end 22 of the restraint member 20;

[0117] As another example, in the case where the second protective member 32 is a thermal expansion disconnection mechanism, the second protective member 32 may include a thermal expansion element that expands when the battery cell 7 experiences thermal runaway and the temperature rises, and disconnects the connection between the first end 21 and the second end 22 of the restraint component 20 through mechanical force.

[0118] As another example, in the case where the second protective member 32 is a current fusing disconnection mechanism, the second protective member 32 may include a current fuse. When thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell 7 and the battery cell 7 is electrically connected to the end plate 10 through the binding member 20, the current fuse senses the current and melts itself to disconnect the first end 21 and the second end 22 of the binding member 20.

[0119] The above technical solution sets up a second protective member 32. The second protective member 32 can prevent the battery cell 7 from being electrically connected to the end plate 10 through the restraining member 20 by directly disconnecting the restraining member 20 when thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell 7, so that the restraining member 20 is separated from the battery cell 7 and the end plate 10. This method has high stability and can further reduce risks.

[0120] In some embodiments, the second protection member 32 is configured to disconnect the first end 21 and the second end 22 when the temperature reaches a first threshold.

[0121] When a battery cell 7 experiences thermal runaway, temperature changes are more noticeable and sensitive. By configuring the second protection member 32 to disconnect the first end 21 from the second end 22 when the temperature reaches a first threshold, the sensitivity and response speed of the second protection member 32 in disconnecting the restraining component 20 when the battery cell 7 experiences thermal runaway can be further improved.

[0122] In some embodiments, the battery module 6 further includes a detection component 40 and a control component 50. The second protective member 32, the detection component 40, and the control component 50 are communicatively connected. The detection component 40 is used to detect the temperature of the battery cell 7. The control component 50 is configured to control the second protective member 32 to disconnect the first terminal 21 and the second terminal 22 when the temperature value obtained by the detection component 40 reaches a first threshold.

[0123] Exemplarily, the second protective member 32 may be detachably connected to the first end 21 and fixedly connected to the second end 22, wherein the detachable connection means that the second protective member 32 is connected to the first end 21 and can be separated from each other under certain conditions; the second protective member 32 may also be detachably connected to the second end 22 and fixedly connected to the first end 21, wherein the detachable connection means that the second protective member 32 is connected to the second end 22 and can be separated from each other under certain conditions.

[0124] In some examples, the second protective member 32 may also include a first part and a second part, the detection component 40 and the control component 50 are communicatively connected to at least one of the first part and the second part, and the first part and the second part are detachably connected. In other words, the first part and the second part are connected and can be separated from each other under certain conditions. The first part is fixedly connected to the first end 21, and the second part is fixedly connected to the second end 22.

[0125] In short, when the battery cell 7 experiences thermal runaway, when the temperature of the battery cell 7 detected by the detection component 40 reaches a first threshold value, the detection component 40 can send the detection information to the control component 50. The control component 50 generates a control instruction in response to the detection information and sends the control instruction to the second protective component 32. The second protective component 32 responds to the control instruction to separate the first part and the second part from each other, thereby disconnecting the first end 21 and the second end 22 of the restraint component 20.

[0126] Optionally, the detection component 40 may be a temperature sensor, such as a thermistor, a thermocouple, or an infrared temperature sensor, etc. The control component 50 may be, but is not limited to, a microprocessor or a relay, etc.

[0127] Optionally, the position of the second protective member 32 on the restraining component 20 can be between the connection between the restraining component 20 and the battery cell 7 and the connection between the restraining component 20 and the end plate 10, so as to improve the timeliness of the second protective member 32 in cutting off the restraining component 20 when the battery cell 7 produces thermal runaway.

[0128] The above technical solution can further improve the sensitivity and reliability of the second protective member 32 in cutting off the restraining member 20 when the battery cell 7 produces thermal runaway by setting a detection member 40 to perform real-time detection on the battery cell 7 and controlling the second protective member 32 to cut off the restraining member 20 through the control member 50.

[0129] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional structure of the cooperation between the restraining component 20 and the protective component 30 of another battery module 6 provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0130] Continuing with FIG8 , in some embodiments, the protective component 30 further includes a third protective member 33. The restraining component 20 further includes a third end 23 and a fourth end 24 along its extension direction. The third protective member 33 is connected to the third end 23 and the fourth end 24. The third protective member 33 is configured to disconnect the third end 23 and the fourth end 24 in the event of thermal runaway of the battery cell 7.

[0131] For example, the restraint component 20 may include two sub-restraints, each of which is a strip-shaped structure. One of the two sub-restraints has a first end 21 and a second end 22 along its own extension direction, and the other of the two sub-restraints has a third end 23 and a fourth end 24 along its own extension direction. The second protective member 32 is connected to the first end 21 and the second end 22, and the third protective member 33 is connected between the third end 23 and the fourth end 24, so that the second protective member 32, the third protective member 33 and the two sub-restraints are alternately connected to form a closed ring structure. The specific setting details of the third protective member 33 can be referred to the relevant description of the second protective member 32 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0132] The above technical solution sets a third protective member 33. When the battery cell 7 suffers thermal runaway, the third protective member 33 can disconnect the connection between the third end 23 and the fourth end 24 of the restraint component 20. Combined with the effect of the second protective member 32 disconnecting the connection between the first end 21 and the second end 22 of the restraint component 20, the restraint component 20 can be more easily detached from the battery cell 7 and the end plate 10, thereby further reducing the risk of the battery cell 7 in the battery module 6 being electrically conductive with the end plate 10 through the restraint member 20.

[0133] In some embodiments, the second and third protective members 32 and 33 are respectively located on the sides of the two end plates 10 facing away from the battery cells 7. This arrangement prevents the second and third protective members 32 and 33 from interfering with the battery cells 7, thereby reducing damage to the battery cells 7.

[0134] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a restraining component 20 of another battery module 6 provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0135] 9 , in some embodiments, the restraining member 20 includes two first segments 25 and two second segments 26 . The two first segments 25 are respectively connected to the two end plates 10 , and each second segment 26 connects the two first segments 25 . The first segment 25 is an insulator.

[0136] For example, the first section 25 can be understood as the portion of the first protective member 31 connected to the end plate 10 , and the second section 26 can be understood as the portion of the first protective member 31 close to the battery cell 7 or connected to the battery cell 7 .

[0137] The first section 25 and the second section 26 may be detachably connected or fixedly connected. The first section 25 may be directly connected to the second section 26 or may be restrained to the second section 26 by other components. For example, the connection between the first section 25 and the second section 26 may be, but is not limited to, bolting, welding, riveting, clamping, or bonding.

[0138] The first section 25 is an insulator, which may be made of, but is not limited to, rubber, silicone rubber, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, or rubber foam.

[0139] The above technical solution sets the first section 25 as an insulator, making it difficult for a current path to be formed between the end plate 10 and the restraining component 20, thereby further reducing the risk of the battery cells 7 in the battery module 6 being electrically connected to the end plate 10 through the restraining component 20.

[0140] In some optional embodiments, the second section 26 is also an insulator.

[0141] Optionally, the first section 25 and the second section 26 are integrally formed. This simplifies the manufacturing process by eliminating the need for an additional joining process. Furthermore, the integral structure provides a stronger connection between the first section 25 and the second section 26 than would be achieved by an additional joining process.

[0142] In some optional embodiments, the restraining component 20 can be made of an elastic, insulating, non-metallic material, such as rubber, silicone rubber, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, or rubber foam. As an example, the restraining component 20 includes an annular elastic band that is connected end to end to form an annular structure and is sleeved and connected to the two end plates 10 and multiple battery cells 7. The elastic band has high deformability and can better wrap the two end plates 10 and multiple battery cells 7, providing a more comprehensive preload force. At the same time, the restraining component 20 made of an insulating, non-metallic material can further reduce the risk of the battery cells 7 in the battery module 6 being electrically conductive with the end plates 10 through the restraining component 20.

[0143] In some optional embodiments, the number of the restraining member 20 may be one or more. As an example, when the number of the restraining member 20 is multiple, the multiple restraining members 20 are arranged parallel to each other.

[0144] According to some embodiments of the present application, the present application also provides a battery, comprising a battery module 6 of any of the above solutions.

[0145] According to some embodiments of the present application, the present application further provides an electrical device, comprising a battery according to any of the above schemes, wherein the battery is used to provide electrical energy.

[0146] In order to better understand the battery module 6 provided in the embodiment of the present application, based on the same inventive concept, an embodiment of the above-mentioned battery module 6 in actual application is provided here for illustration.

[0147] An embodiment of the present application provides a battery module 6, which includes multiple battery cells 7, two end plates 10, a restraining component 20 and a protective component 30. The multiple battery cells 7 are arranged along a first direction X, and the two end plates 10 are respectively arranged at both ends of the multiple battery cells 7 along the first direction X. The restraining component 20 is arranged around the two end plates 10 and the multiple battery cells 7. The protective component 30 is connected to the restraining component 20, and the protective component 30 is used to prevent the battery cells 7 from being electrically connected to the end plates 10 through the restraining component 20.

[0148] The protective member 30 includes a first protective member 31. At least a portion of the first protective member 31 is sandwiched between the restraining member 20 and the end plate 10, insulating the restraining member 20 from the end plate 10. The first protective member 31 includes a main portion 311 and two extension portions 312. The main portion 311 is connected between the restraining member 20 and the end plate 10. The two side edges of the main portion 311 along the second direction Y overlap with the two side edges of the restraining member 20 along the second direction Y. The first direction X intersects the second direction Y. The two extension portions 312 are respectively connected to the two side edges of the main portion 311 along the second direction Y and extend along the second direction Y.

[0149] The above technical solution can effectively reduce the risk of the battery cells 7 in the battery module 6 being electrically connected to the end plates 10 through the restraining components 20 by providing the protection component 30 , thereby improving the reliability of the battery module 6 .

[0150] It should be noted that, unless there is any conflict, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0151] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, and they should all be included in the scope of the claims and specification of the present application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any way. The present application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions that fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A battery module comprising: A plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction; two end plates, respectively disposed at two ends of the plurality of battery cells along the first direction; a restraining member disposed around the two end plates and the plurality of battery cells; a protection component connected to the restraining component, the protection component being used to prevent the battery cell from being electrically connected to the end plate through the restraining component; Wherein, the protective component includes a second protective component, the restraining component includes a first end and a second end along its own extension direction, and the second protective component is connected to the first end and the second end; The second protection member is used to disconnect the first end and the second end when thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein: The protection member includes a first protection member configured to insulate at least one of the battery cell and the end plate from the restraining member.

3. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein: At least a portion of the first protection member is clamped between the restraining component and the end plate, and insulates the restraining component from the end plate.

4. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein: The first protection member includes a main body and two extensions, the main body being connected between the restraining member and the end plate, and both side edges of the main body along the second direction overlapping with both side edges of the restraining member along the second direction, and the first direction intersects the second direction; The two extension portions are respectively connected to two side edges of the main body portion along the second direction and extend along the second direction.

5. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein: The first protection member extends along an extending direction of the tie member and covers an inner side surface of the tie member.

6. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein: The first protection member covers the entire restraining component.

7. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The second protection member is configured to disconnect the first end and the second end when the temperature reaches a first threshold.

8. The battery module according to claim 7, wherein: The battery module further includes a detection component and a control component, the second protection member, the detection component and the control component are communicatively connected, and the detection component is used to detect the temperature of the battery cell; The control component is configured to control the second protection member to disconnect the first end and the second end when the temperature value acquired by the detection component reaches the first threshold.

9. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The protection component further includes a third protection component, and the restraining component further includes a third end and a fourth end along its own extension direction, and the third protection component is connected to the third end and the fourth end; The third protection member is used to disconnect the third terminal and the fourth terminal when thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell.

10. The battery module according to claim 9, wherein: The second protection member and the third protection member are respectively located on a side of the two end plates facing away from the battery cells.

11. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The restraining component includes two first sections and two second sections. The two first sections are respectively connected to the two end plates. Each second section is connected to two first sections. The first section is an insulator.

12. A battery comprising the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. An electrical device comprising the battery according to claim 12, wherein the battery is used to provide electrical energy.

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