Battery module, thermal control system, and electrical device

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of batteries, and provides a battery module, a thermal control system, and an electrical device. The battery module comprises: a housing, the housing having an accommodating cavity and a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet in communication with the accommodating cavity; a battery assembly disposed within the accommodating cavity, the battery assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction; and a partition plate disposed on at least one side of the battery cells in the first direction and in close contact with the battery cells, the partition plate being provided with a flow channel groove facing the battery cells, two ends of the flow channel groove being provided with openings, and the flow channel groove being in communication with the accommodating cavity via the openings. In this way, an immersion liquid enters the accommodating cavity via the liquid inlet, and then enters the flow channel groove via the openings to perform heat exchange with the battery cells, thereby achieving cooling or heating of the battery cells; finally, the immersion liquid flows out through the liquid outlet. During this process, the immersion liquid is in direct contact with the battery cells, thereby improving the thermal control efficiency of the battery cells.

Description

Battery modules, thermal control systems and electrical equipment

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This disclosure claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 2024116321133, filed on November 14, 2024, entitled "Battery Module, Thermal Control System and Electrical Equipment", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application belongs to the field of battery technology, specifically relating to a battery module, a thermal control system, and an electrical device. Background Technology

[0004] Immersion thermal control, a commonly used thermal control method for battery modules, involves placing individual battery cells in an immersion solution to dissipate heat or heat the individual cells, thereby controlling their temperature.

[0005] However, the efficiency of current immersion thermal control for battery modules is relatively low. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a battery module to address the problem of low efficiency in current immersion thermal control of battery modules; this application also provides a thermal control system; this application further provides an electrical device.

[0007] To achieve at least one of the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows: First aspect: This application provides a battery module, comprising:

[0008] A housing having a receiving cavity and an inlet and an outlet communicating with the receiving cavity;

[0009] A battery module is disposed within the receiving cavity, and the battery module includes a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction;

[0010] A separator is disposed on at least one side of the battery cell in the first direction and is attached to the battery cell. The separator has a flow channel groove facing the battery cell, and the two ends of the flow channel groove are provided with openings. The flow channel groove is connected to the receiving cavity through the openings.

[0011] In one optional embodiment, the partition is provided with a plurality of flow channel grooves along the second direction, each of the flow channel grooves extending along a third direction, wherein the first direction, the second direction and the third direction intersect each other.

[0012] In one optional embodiment, along the first direction, the separator is provided on both sides of the battery cell, and the flow channels of the separator on both sides are staggered along the second direction.

[0013] In one optional embodiment, along the first direction, the separator is provided on both sides of the battery cell, and the flow channel grooves of the separator on both sides are correspondingly provided in the second direction.

[0014] In one optional embodiment, the flow channel grooves are provided on both sides of the partition along the first direction, and a plurality of the flow channel grooves are spaced apart along the second direction.

[0015] In one optional embodiment, the partition includes:

[0016] A first plate, wherein the first plate has the flow channel groove formed on at least one side in the first direction;

[0017] Multiple second plates are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the first plate along a third direction and are in contact with the surface of the battery cell; the second plates have the opening, and the opening communicates with the flow channel groove.

[0018] In one optional embodiment, the battery cell includes:

[0019] A cover plate assembly, the cover plate assembly including a cover plate body, an electrode and an insulating component; the electrode is disposed on one side of the cover plate body, and the insulating component is disposed on the side of the electrode away from the cover plate body;

[0020] A top cover patch is disposed on the side of the cover plate body facing the insulating component. The top cover patch has a through hole, and the electrode passes through the through hole.

[0021] The first protective part is disposed between the top cover patch and the insulating component.

[0022] In one optional implementation, the battery module further includes:

[0023] The second protective part is disposed on the housing in an area configured to house the battery module, and is located between the housing and the battery module.

[0024] In one optional implementation, the battery module further includes:

[0025] The detection unit is located in the receiving cavity near the liquid outlet, and the detection unit is connected in parallel with the voltage sampling circuit of the battery module.

[0026] In one alternative embodiment, the housing and the partition are made of insulating material.

[0027] Secondly, this application also provides a thermal control system, comprising:

[0028] An internal circulation subsystem includes a heat exchange module, a delivery module, and a plurality of battery modules as described in any of the above embodiments, connected in sequence; the heat exchange module is also connected to an external circulation subsystem and configured to allow the internal circulation subsystem to exchange heat with the external circulation subsystem; the delivery module is configured to circulate and deliver the immersion liquid between the heat exchange module and the plurality of battery modules.

[0029] The control module includes a first control unit and a plurality of second control units; the first control unit is connected to the delivery module and configured to control the start and stop of the delivery module; the second control units are connected to the battery module and configured to control the flow rate of the immersion liquid input into each battery module.

[0030] In one optional embodiment, the immersion solution is deionized water or purified water.

[0031] In one optional implementation, the conveying module includes:

[0032] An infusion pump and a storage tank are connected to each other. The storage tank is equipped with a heater and an exhaust valve, and the surface of the storage tank is provided with a heat insulation layer.

[0033] Thirdly, this application also provides an electrical device, including a thermal control system as described in the above embodiments.

[0034] Beneficial Effects: Compared with the prior art, the battery module provided in this application includes: a housing having a receiving cavity and an inlet and an outlet communicating with the receiving cavity; a battery module disposed within the receiving cavity, the battery module including a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction; and a separator disposed on at least one side of the battery cells in the first direction and in contact with the battery cells, the separator having a flow channel groove facing the battery cells, the flow channel groove having openings at both ends, and the flow channel groove communicating with the receiving cavity through the openings. Thus, the immersion liquid enters the receiving cavity through the inlet, then enters the flow channel groove through the openings to exchange heat with the battery cells, achieving cooling or heating of the battery cells. Finally, the immersion liquid flows out through the outlet. In this process, the immersion liquid directly contacts the battery cells, improving the thermal control efficiency of the battery cells.

[0035] It is understood that, compared with the prior art, the thermal control system provided in this application includes all the technical features and technical effects of the above-mentioned battery module, and will not be repeated here.

[0036] It is understood that, compared with the prior art, the electrical equipment provided in this application embodiment includes all the technical features and technical effects of the above-mentioned thermal control system, which will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0037] The technical solution and other beneficial effects of this application will become apparent from the following detailed description of specific embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0038] Figure 1 is a first structural schematic diagram of the battery module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the second structure of the battery module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the housing in the battery module provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the battery module in the embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the cross-section of AA in Figure 4;

[0043] Figure 6 is an enlarged schematic diagram of region B in Figure 5;

[0044] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the first structure of the separator in the battery module provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the second structure of the separator in the battery module provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the third structure of the separator in the battery module provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a single battery cell in the battery module provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 11 is an enlarged schematic diagram of region C in Figure 10;

[0049] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the thermal control system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0050] Reference numerals: 10-Battery module; 110-Housing shell; 111-Receiving cavity; 112-Inlet; 113-Outlet; 120-Battery module; 130-Battery cell; 131-Insulating component; 132-Top cover patch; 133-First protective part; 140-Separator; 141-Flow channel; 142-Opening; 143-First plate; 144-Second plate; 150-Second protective part; 160-Detection unit; 170-End plate; 180-Connecting strip; 190-Binding strap; 20-Internal circulation subsystem; 21-Heat exchange module; 22-Transfer module; 221-Infusion pump; 222-Storage tank; 2221-Insulation layer; 30-Control module; 31-First control unit; 32-Second control unit; 40-External circulation subsystem; Y-First direction; Z-Second direction; X-Third direction. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0052] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows for mutual communication; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two elements or the interaction between two elements. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise expressly and specifically limited. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features.

[0053] The following disclosure provides many different implementations or examples for carrying out different structures of this application. To simplify the disclosure of this application, the components and arrangements of specific examples are described below. Of course, these are merely examples and are not intended to limit this application.

[0054] This application provides a battery module. Please refer to Figures 1 to 7. Figure 1 shows a first structural schematic diagram of the battery module provided in this application embodiment; Figure 2 shows a second structural schematic diagram of the battery module provided in this application embodiment; Figure 3 shows a structural schematic diagram of the housing in the battery module provided in this application embodiment; Figure 4 shows a structural schematic diagram of the battery module in the battery module provided in this application embodiment; Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of AA in Figure 4; Figure 6 shows an enlarged schematic diagram of region B in Figure 5; Figure 7 shows a first structural schematic diagram of the separator in the battery module provided in this application embodiment. The battery module 10 provided in this application embodiment includes: a housing 110, a battery module 120, and a separator 140. The housing 110 has a receiving cavity 111 and a liquid inlet 112 and a liquid outlet 113 communicating with the receiving cavity 111. A battery module 120 is disposed within the receiving cavity 111 and includes a plurality of battery cells 130 arranged along a first direction Y. A separator 140 is disposed on at least one side of each battery cell 130 in the first direction Y and is in contact with the battery cell 130. The separator 140 has a flow channel groove 141 facing the battery cell 130, and openings 142 are provided at both ends of the flow channel groove 141, which communicates with the receiving cavity 111 through the openings 142. It can be understood that there can be multiple battery modules 120, and each battery module 120 includes multiple battery cells 130. Thus, by setting a separator 140 and a flow channel 141 within the battery module, this application allows the immersion liquid to directly contact the battery cells 130, achieving heat exchange with the battery cells 130. This effectively reduces or increases the temperature of the battery cells 130, improving the thermal control efficiency of the battery module 10. Specifically, in the battery module 10 of this application, the immersion liquid enters the receiving cavity 111 through the inlet 112, then enters the flow channel 141 through the opening 142 to exchange heat with the battery cells 130, achieving cooling or heating of the battery cells 130. Finally, the immersion liquid flows out through the outlet 113, realizing the circulation of the immersion liquid within the battery module. During this process, the immersion liquid directly contacts the battery cells 130, meaning that the operating temperature of the battery cells 130 can be adjusted as needed by controlling the temperature of the immersion liquid, thereby improving the thermal control efficiency of the battery cells 130. In addition, the separator 140 of this application is attached to the battery cell 130, which can isolate and support the battery cells 130, providing additional protection for the battery cells 130.

[0055] It should be noted that the immersion liquid in this application can be deionized water or purified water, collectively referred to as aqueous immersion liquid. Compared to organic immersion liquids, aqueous immersion liquids have higher thermal conductivity and no viscosity, resulting in significantly higher heat transfer performance. This allows for effective heat absorption and transfer, providing higher heat exchange efficiency for the thermal control of the battery cell 130 and reducing the energy consumption for thermal management of the battery cell 130. Secondly, aqueous immersion liquids are flame-retardant, meaning they are non-flammable. Compared to flammable organic immersion liquids, aqueous immersion liquids can be used for fire extinguishing themselves, eliminating the need for additional fire-fighting equipment. Furthermore, aqueous immersion liquids are easier to obtain and lower in cost than organic immersion liquids, making them more convenient to use. Even if leaked, they will not pollute the environment, further enhancing the environmental friendliness of the battery module 10.

[0056] Please refer again to Figures 2 and 6. In some embodiments, the separator 140 has multiple flow channels 141 along the second direction Z, and each flow channel 141 extends along the third direction X. The first direction Y, the second direction Z, and the third direction X intersect each other. The value of each flow channel 141 in the first direction Y ranges from 1.5mm to 3.3mm, as shown by the width d in Figure 6, i.e., the value of d in Figure 6 ranges from 1.5mm to 3.3mm. It can be understood that by opening multiple flow channels 141 on the separator 140, this application allows each surface of the battery cell 130 on both sides along the first direction Y to contact the immersion liquid in the multiple flow channels 141, further increasing the path for heat exchange between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid, improving the heat exchange rate between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid, thereby keeping the temperature of the battery cell 130 within a suitable range.

[0057] Please refer again to Figures 2, 5, and 6. In some embodiments, along the first direction Y, a partition 140 is provided on both sides of the battery cell 130, and the flow channels 141 of the partitions 140 on both sides are staggered along the second direction Z. The staggered arrangement means that the flow channels 141 on both sides of the battery cell 130 are arranged alternately along the second direction Z. In other words, for any side of the battery cell 130 along the first direction Y, the orthographic projections of the flow channels 141 on that side are arranged alternately. Specifically, taking Figure 6 as an example, for the battery cell 130 in the figure, from bottom to top, after arranging one flow channel 141 on the left, another flow channel 141 is arranged at an upper position on the right, and then another flow channel 141 is arranged on the left, and so on, until the arrangement is complete, thereby achieving alternating heat exchange on both sides of the battery cell 130. It is understood that the orthographic projections of the flow channels 141 on both sides of the battery cell 130 can be completely non-overlapping, as shown in Figure 6, or they can partially overlap to completely cover the side, further enhancing the contact area between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid. Thus, by providing a partition 140 on each side of the battery cell 130, the immersion liquid flowing through the flow channels 141 on each partition 140 can contact the battery cell 130, increasing the surface area for heat exchange between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid. This allows heat in the battery cell 130 to be transferred to the immersion liquid more evenly and quickly, or heat in the immersion liquid to be transferred to the battery cell 130 more evenly and quickly, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid and reducing the thermal management energy consumption of the battery module 10. Furthermore, in the first direction Y, which is the thickness direction of the battery cell 130, a partition 140 is provided on each side of the large surface of the battery cell 130. The battery cell 130 exchanges heat with the immersion liquid through the larger surface area, further improving the heat exchange efficiency between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid. The flow channels 141 of the partitions 140 on both sides are staggered along the second direction Z, so that the two sides of the battery cell 130 along the first direction Y can contact the immersion liquid at different positions along the second direction Z, further increasing the contact area between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid and improving the heat exchange efficiency between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid.

[0058] Please refer to Figure 2 again. In some embodiments, along the first direction Y, a partition 140 is provided on both sides of the battery cell 130, and the flow channel grooves 141 of the partitions 140 on both sides are correspondingly provided in the second direction Z. During the heat exchange process, heat exchange occurs on both sides of the battery cell 130 along the first direction Y. Therefore, in this application, the flow channel grooves 141 of the two partitions 140 are correspondingly provided in the second direction Z. That is, the orthographic projections of the flow channel grooves 141 on both sides of the battery cell 130 along the first direction Y have an overlapping portion, ensuring that any part of the battery cell 130 along the second direction Z can dissipate heat through at least one side of the surface. Thus, by making the orthographic projections of the flow channels 141 of the two separators 140 on the battery cell 130 at least partially overlap, the contact area for heat exchange between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid is increased, so that heat is transferred more evenly between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid, reducing the temperature non-uniformity of the battery cell 130, improving the heat exchange efficiency, and thereby effectively controlling the temperature of the battery cell 130.

[0059] Please refer to Figure 9, which illustrates a third structural diagram of the separator in the battery module provided in this application embodiment. In some embodiments, flow channels 141 are provided on both sides of the separator 140 along the first direction Y, and multiple flow channels 141 are spaced apart along the second direction Z. In this application embodiment, flow channels 141 can also be provided on both sides of the separator 140, so that the immersion liquid can be guided on both sides of the same separator 140 at the same time. Only one separator 140 is needed between two adjacent battery cells 130 to achieve simultaneous heating or cooling of the two battery cells 130. In addition, this arrangement reduces the thickness of the separator 140 between two adjacent battery cells 130, further saving space in the receiving cavity 111 and improving the space utilization of the battery module 10.

[0060] In some embodiments, the separator 140 includes a first plate 143 and a plurality of second plates 144; wherein, the first plate 143 has a flow channel groove 141 on at least one side in a first direction Y; the plurality of second plates 144 are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the first plate 143 in a third direction X and are in contact with the surface of the battery cell 130; the second plates 144 have openings 142 that communicate with the flow channel groove 141. Thus, the immersion liquid flows into the flow channel groove 141 from the openings 142, thereby detaching from the battery cell 130 and exchanging heat. Simultaneously, the first plate 143 and the second plate 144 are in contact with the surface of the battery cell 130, limiting, supporting, and fixing the battery cell 130, thereby enhancing the stability of the battery cell 130 and the separator 140 and preventing the impact of vibration on the temperature control of the battery cell 130 during transportation or use.

[0061] It is understood that, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, Figure 8 illustrates a second structural diagram of the separator in the battery module provided in this application embodiment. When the separator 140 is disposed on the outermost side of multiple battery cells 130, the second plate 144 can extend only on the side of the first plate 143 facing the battery cell 130, thereby achieving the above-mentioned effect while minimizing the thickness of the separator 140 and improving the space utilization of the receiving cavity 111. Similarly, as shown in Figure 9, when the separator 140 is disposed between two adjacent battery cells 130, the second plate 144 can extend simultaneously on both sides of the first plate 143 along the first direction Y, so as to limit, support and fix the battery cells 130 on both sides, further enhancing the stability of the battery cells 130 and the separator 140.

[0062] Please refer to Figures 10 and 11. Figure 10 illustrates a structural schematic diagram of a battery cell in a battery module provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 11 illustrates an enlarged schematic diagram of region C in Figure 10. In some embodiments, the battery cell 130 includes: a cover assembly (not shown in the figure), a top cover patch 132, and a first protective part 133. The cover assembly includes a cover body, an electrode, and an insulating member 131. The electrode is disposed on one side of the cover body, and the insulating member 131 is disposed on the side of the electrode away from the cover body. The top cover patch 132 is disposed on the side of the cover body facing the insulating member 131, and the top cover patch 132 has a through hole through which the electrode passes. The first protective part 133 is disposed between the top cover patch 132 and the insulating member 131. For the battery cell 130, the cover assembly is the main structure for electrical connection between the battery cell 130 and other structures. The cover assembly includes a cover body, electrodes, and an insulator 131. The electrodes include a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The insulator 131 is disposed on the negative electrode, typically as plastic on the negative electrode between the negative electrode riveting block and the top cover of the battery cell 130. In this structure, there is a conductive gap between the top cover patch 132 and the insulator 131. Therefore, a first protective part 133 is needed in this gap to insulate and waterproof the gap between the top cover patch 132 and the insulator 131, preventing the battery cell 130 from coming into contact with the immersion liquid and causing a short circuit. The first protective part 133 can be an insulating and waterproof structure such as a waterproof coating.

[0063] As can be understood, please refer to Figure 2 again. Since the battery cells 130 are usually electrically connected by connecting strips 180, the highest position of the immersion liquid in this application can be lower than the top surface of the battery cell 130 to ensure the safety of the battery module 10; or after further insulation treatment is carried out in the non-welded area of ​​the connecting strip 180 by means of dip coating or spraying, the highest position of the immersion liquid will completely immerse the connecting strip 180 to increase the contact area between the battery cell 130 and the immersion liquid and improve the heat exchange efficiency.

[0064] Furthermore, referring again to Figure 2, this application also provides end plates 170 at the outermost ends of both ends of the battery module 120. Each end can have one end plate 170, and the end plates 170 and multiple battery cells 130 are bound and fixed together by straps 190. In this way, the end plates 170, separators 140, and straps 190 combine the multiple battery cells 130 into a whole, thereby withstanding the expansion force of the battery cells 130 during their lifespan and preventing deformation of the battery cells 130 along the first direction Y surface. It is understood that, to enhance the stability of the battery module 120, the straps 190 can be made of stainless steel, and to strengthen the insulation effect, insulating sleeves are added to the parts of the straps 190 close to the surface of the battery cells 130.

[0065] Referring again to Figure 3, in some embodiments, the battery module 10 further includes a second protective portion 150, disposed on the housing 110 in the area for placing the battery module 120, and positioned between the housing 110 and the battery module 120. Thus, the second protective portion 150 acts as a barrier between the housing 110 and the battery module 120, preventing short circuits between them. For example, when multiple battery modules 10 are connected in series, for 52 or fewer battery modules 10, the voltage stress inside all battery modules 10 can be reduced from approximately 1500V to approximately 200V, meaning there will be no voltage exceeding 200V inside the battery module 10. The housing 110 and the bottom surface of the battery cell 130 are bonded with structural adhesive to prevent creepage between the bottom surfaces of the battery cells 130 when the bottom coating of the battery cell 130 is poor or the immersion liquid insulation is abnormal. It is understandable that for large battery modules 10, plastic or metal reinforcing ribs can be added to the outside of the bottom surface of the housing 110 to strengthen the structural strength of the battery module 10 and improve its safety.

[0066] Please refer again to Figure 3. In some embodiments, the battery module 10 further includes a detection unit 160, which is disposed in the receiving cavity 111 near the liquid outlet 113, and the detection unit 160 is connected in parallel with the voltage sampling circuit of the battery module 120. In this embodiment, the detection unit 160 monitors in real time whether the immersion liquid is normal. Specifically, the detection unit 160 is disposed in the receiving cavity 111 near the liquid outlet 113, and its two poles are connected in parallel to the voltage sampling circuit of the battery module 120. When the immersion liquid in the receiving cavity 111 is normal deionized water or purified water, the detection unit 160 is equivalent to a capacitor and has no effect on the voltage sampling; when the immersion liquid is contaminated and the conductivity increases, a significant leakage current is generated between the plates, the voltage sampling is abnormal, and the detection unit 160 performs subsequent emergency processing actions. For example, when the voltage sampling is slightly abnormal, the detection unit 160 issues an alarm message, and the second control unit 32 shuts off the immersion fluid supply to the current battery module 10; when the voltage sampling is severely abnormal, the detection unit 160 issues an alarm message, and the second control unit 32 shuts off the immersion fluid supply to the normal battery module 10, while increasing the immersion fluid supply to the abnormal battery module 10 to achieve water fire protection for the battery module 10.

[0067] In some embodiments, the housing 110 and the separator 140 are made of insulating materials. Thus, using insulating materials for the housing 110 and separator 140 effectively isolates the electrical connections between the battery cells 130 and between the battery cells 130 and the external environment, preventing short circuits between the battery module 120 and external metal structures or other conductive objects, reducing electrical safety risks such as electric shock and fire, and preventing current leakage from the battery module 120, reducing energy loss and safety hazards caused by leakage. Secondly, the insulating material has low thermal conductivity and vibration conductivity, effectively isolating heat and vibration between the housing 110 and the separator 140, thereby maintaining the temperature stability of the battery module 120 and reducing the impact of vibration on the battery module 120, improving the performance and lifespan of the battery module 10. Furthermore, the insulating material typically has good corrosion resistance, effectively preventing the chemicals inside the battery module 120 from contacting humidity, gases, or other corrosive substances in the external environment, thereby protecting the structural integrity and long-term stability of the battery module 120.

[0068] In summary, this application, by setting a separator 140 and a flow channel 141 within the battery module 120, allows the immersion liquid to directly contact the battery cells 130, achieving heat exchange with the battery cells 130. This effectively reduces or increases the temperature of the battery cells 130, thereby improving the thermal control efficiency of the battery module 10. Specifically, in the battery module 10 of this application, the immersion liquid enters the receiving cavity 111 through the inlet 112, then enters the flow channel 141 through the opening 142 to exchange heat with the battery cells 130, achieving cooling or heating of the battery cells 130. Finally, the immersion liquid flows out through the outlet 113, realizing the circulation of the immersion liquid within the battery module. During this process, the immersion liquid directly contacts the battery cells 130, and the operating temperature of the battery cells 130 can be adjusted as needed by controlling the temperature of the immersion liquid, thus improving the thermal control efficiency of the battery cells 130. In addition, the separator 140 of this application is attached to the battery cell 130, which can isolate and support the battery cells 130, providing additional protection for the battery cells 130.

[0069] Accordingly, please refer to Figure 12, which illustrates a schematic diagram of the structure of the thermal control system provided in the embodiments of this application. This application also provides a thermal control system, including: an internal circulation subsystem 20, a control module 30, and an external circulation subsystem 40. The internal circulation subsystem 20 includes a heat exchange module 21, a delivery module 22, and a plurality of battery modules 10 as described in any of the above embodiments, connected in sequence. The heat exchange module 21 is also connected to the external circulation subsystem 40, configured to perform heat exchange between the internal circulation subsystem 20 and the external circulation subsystem 40. The delivery module 22 is configured to circulate and deliver the immersion liquid between the heat exchange module 21 and the plurality of battery modules 10. The control module 30 includes a first control unit 31 and a plurality of second control units 32. The first control unit 31 is connected to the delivery module 22 and configured to control the start and stop of the delivery module 22. The second control units 32 are connected to the battery modules 10 and configured to control the flow rate of the immersion liquid input into each battery module 10. This application controls the circulation and flow rate of the immersion liquid through the control module 30, which can prevent excessive or insufficient immersion liquid from entering the battery module 10, thereby protecting the battery module 10 from overheating or overcooling, thus improving the safety of the battery module 10 and reducing potential safety risks.

[0070] Specifically, the thermal control system comprises two cycles: an outer circulation subsystem 40 for primary cooling / heating, and an inner circulation subsystem 20 for heat exchange with the outer circulation subsystem 40. Within the inner circulation subsystem 20, the delivery module 22 circulates the immersion fluid between the heat exchange module 21 and the multiple battery modules 10, achieving circulation and heat exchange between the immersion fluid and the battery modules 10, thus improving the temperature stability of the multiple battery modules 10. Next, a first control unit 31 is connected to the delivery module 22 to control its start and stop, thereby precisely controlling the circulation flow of the immersion fluid. A second control unit 32 is connected to the battery modules 10 and configured to control the flow rate of the immersion fluid input to each battery module 10, thereby precisely adjusting the thermal control of each battery module 10 according to actual needs, improving the flexibility and efficiency of temperature control. The second control unit 32 can be a solenoid valve, so that the immersion liquid flowing through each battery module 10 can be controlled by a single second control unit 32, preventing the immersion liquid from being contaminated and spreading to the other battery modules 10, and controlling the immersion liquid to perform water fire suppression on a single battery module 10 after thermal runaway occurs.

[0071] In some embodiments, the immersion liquid is deionized water or purified water. It should be noted that the immersion liquid in this application can be either deionized water or purified water, collectively referred to as aqueous immersion liquid. Compared to organic immersion liquids, aqueous immersion liquids have higher thermal conductivity and no viscosity, resulting in significantly higher heat transfer performance. This allows for effective heat absorption and transfer, providing higher heat exchange efficiency for the thermal control of the battery cell 130 and reducing the energy consumption for thermal management of the battery cell 130. Secondly, aqueous immersion liquids are flame-retardant, meaning they are non-flammable. Compared to flammable organic immersion liquids, aqueous immersion liquids can be used for fire extinguishing themselves, eliminating the need for additional fire-fighting equipment. Furthermore, aqueous immersion liquids are easier to obtain and lower in cost than organic immersion liquids, making them more convenient to use. Even if leaked, they will not pollute the environment, further enhancing the environmental friendliness of the battery module 10.

[0072] In some embodiments, the delivery module 22 includes an infusion pump 221 and a storage tank 222 connected in sequence. The storage tank 222 is equipped with a heater and an exhaust valve, and an insulation layer 2221 is provided on the surface of the storage tank 222. Specifically, the infusion pump 221 is configured to precisely deliver the immersion liquid from the storage tank 222 to the heat exchange module 21 and multiple battery modules 10. The operating state and flow rate of the infusion pump 221 are controlled by the first control unit 31 to achieve precise delivery of the immersion liquid, ensuring that each battery module 10 receives an appropriate amount of immersion liquid, thereby improving the stability and performance of the battery module 10. The heater of the storage tank 222 can provide heat, and the exhaust valve can control the gas discharge in the storage tank 222, thereby achieving temperature control of the immersion liquid in the storage tank 222, ensuring that the temperature of the immersion liquid is within a suitable range, improving the working efficiency and lifespan of the battery module 10; at the same time, the exhaust valve can prevent gas accumulation that could lead to pressure rise, thereby maintaining the normal operating state of the storage tank and reducing potential safety risks. In addition, the surface of the liquid storage tank 222 is provided with a heat insulation layer 2221, which blocks the heat conduction of the external environment to the liquid storage tank 222, keeps the temperature of the immersion liquid stable, reduces the heat loss of the immersion liquid, and improves the energy efficiency and stability of the thermal control system.

[0073] It is understood that, compared with the prior art, the battery pack discharge control device provided in this application embodiment includes all the technical features and technical effects of the above-mentioned thermal control system, and will not be repeated here.

[0074] Accordingly, this application also provides an electrical device, including a thermal control system as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0075] In this embodiment, the electrical equipment can be a mobile phone, portable device, laptop computer, electric toy, and power tool, etc. Electric toys include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric boat toys, and electric airplane toys, etc.; power tools include metal cutting power tools, grinding power tools, assembly power tools, and railway power tools, such as electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, impact drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers, etc. This embodiment does not impose any special limitations on the aforementioned electrical equipment.

[0076] It is understood that, compared with the prior art, the electrical equipment provided in this application embodiment includes all the technical features and technical effects of the above-mentioned thermal control system, which will not be repeated here.

[0077] Accordingly, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program configured to cause a processor to execute the steps of the thermal control system as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0078] It is understood that, compared with the prior art, the computer-readable storage medium provided in this application embodiment includes all the technical features and technical effects of the above-mentioned thermal control system, which will not be repeated here.

[0079] The battery module, thermal control system, and electrical equipment provided in the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used in this application to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the technical solutions and core ideas of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application. Industrial applicability

[0080] The above solution involves a battery module comprising a housing with a receiving cavity and an inlet and an outlet communicating with the receiving cavity. A battery module is disposed within the receiving cavity and includes multiple battery cells arranged along a first direction. A separator is disposed on at least one side of each battery cell in the first direction and is in contact with the battery cell. The separator has a flow channel groove facing the battery cell, with openings at both ends, and the flow channel groove communicates with the receiving cavity through the openings. Thus, the immersion liquid enters the receiving cavity through the inlet, then enters the flow channel groove through the openings to exchange heat with the battery cells, achieving cooling or heating of the battery cells. Finally, the immersion liquid flows out through the outlet. During this process, the immersion liquid directly contacts the battery cells, improving the thermal control efficiency of the battery cells.

Claims

1. A battery module, wherein, include: A housing having a receiving cavity and an inlet and an outlet communicating with the receiving cavity; A battery module is disposed within the receiving cavity, and the battery module includes a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction; A separator is disposed on at least one side of the battery cell in the first direction and is attached to the battery cell. The separator has a flow channel groove facing the battery cell, and the two ends of the flow channel groove are provided with openings. The flow channel groove is connected to the receiving cavity through the openings.

2. The battery module of claim 1, wherein, The partition plate has a plurality of flow channel grooves along the second direction, and each flow channel groove extends along a third direction, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction intersect each other.

3. The battery module of claim 1 or 2, wherein, Along the first direction, the partition is provided on both sides of the battery cell, and the flow channels of the partition on both sides are staggered along the second direction.

4. The battery module of claim 1 or 2, wherein, Along the first direction, the separator is provided on both sides of the battery cell, and the flow channel grooves of the separator on both sides are correspondingly provided in the second direction.

5. The battery module of any one of claims 1-4, wherein, Along the first direction, the flow channel grooves are provided on both sides of the partition, and a plurality of the flow channel grooves are spaced apart along the second direction.

6. The battery module of any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The partition includes: A first plate having the flow channel groove formed on at least one side in the first direction.

7. The battery module of any one of claim 6, wherein, The partition also includes: Multiple second plates are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the first plate along a third direction and are in contact with the surface of the battery cell; the second plates have the opening, and the opening communicates with the flow channel groove.

8. The battery module of any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The value of the flow channel groove in the first direction ranges from 1.5 mm to 3.3 mm.

9. The battery module of any of claims 6-7, wherein, When the separator is disposed on the outermost side of a plurality of battery cells, the second plate extends on the side of the first plate facing the battery cell.

10. The battery module of any one of claims 6-7, wherein, When the separator is disposed between two adjacent battery cells, the second plate extends on both sides of the first plate along the first direction.

11. The battery module of claim 1, wherein, The battery cell includes: A cover plate assembly, the cover plate assembly including a cover plate body, an electrode and an insulating component; the electrode is disposed on one side of the cover plate body, and the insulating component is disposed on the side of the electrode away from the cover plate body; A top cover patch is disposed on the side of the cover plate body facing the insulating component. The top cover patch has a through hole, and the electrode passes through the through hole. The first protective part is disposed between the top cover patch and the insulating component.

12. The battery module of claim 1, wherein, Also includes: The second protective part is disposed on the housing in an area configured to house the battery module, and is located between the housing and the battery module.

13. The battery module of any one of claims 1-12, wherein, The battery module also includes: The detection unit is located in the receiving cavity near the liquid outlet, and the detection unit is connected in parallel with the voltage sampling circuit of the battery module.

14. The battery module of claim 1, wherein, The shell and the partition are made of insulating materials.

15. A thermal control system, wherein, include: An internal circulation subsystem includes a heat exchange module, a delivery module, and a plurality of battery modules as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, connected in sequence; the heat exchange module is also connected to an external circulation subsystem and configured to allow the internal circulation subsystem to exchange heat with the external circulation subsystem; the delivery module is configured to circulate and deliver immersion liquid between the heat exchange module and the plurality of battery modules. The control module includes a first control unit and a plurality of second control units; the first control unit is connected to the delivery module and configured to control the start and stop of the delivery module; the second control units are connected to the battery module and configured to control the flow rate of the immersion liquid input into each battery module.

16. The thermal control system of claim 15, wherein, The immersion solution is deionized water or purified water.

17. The thermal control system of claim 15, wherein, The conveying module includes: An infusion pump and a storage tank are connected to each other. The storage tank is equipped with a heater and an exhaust valve, and the surface of the storage tank is provided with a heat insulation layer.

18. An electrical device, comprising: Includes the thermal control system as described in any one of claims 15 to 17.

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