Bipolar battery and electric apparatus

Abstract

A bipolar battery (10) and an electric apparatus, the bipolar battery comprising an encapsulation housing (100), a first current collector (221a), a second current collector (221b), a plurality of battery cells (200), and communication members (20). Each battery cell (200) forms a closed cavity (230), and a respective communication member (20) is connected to at least part of the closed cavity (230); the communication member (20) comprises a lead-out channel (21); one end of the lead-out channel (21) is in communication with the closed cavity (230), and the other end extends out of the closed cavity (230); and the communication member (20) has a first state in which the closed cavity (230) is in communication with the outside and a second state in which the lead-out channel (21) is closed. At least some of the communication members (20) can be in communication with each other.

Description

Bipolar batteries and electrical devices

[0001] This disclosure claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411709016.X, filed on November 25, 2024, entitled "Bipolar Battery and Electrical Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to the field of battery technology, and more particularly to bipolar batteries and electrical devices. Background Technology

[0003] Bipolar batteries, which are assembled by stacking multiple bipolar battery cells using a composite current collector, have a simpler and more compact structure due to the fewer internal components such as current collectors. This allows for more battery cells to be incorporated into the same size as conventional batteries, thus increasing battery capacity. Furthermore, the simple structure of bipolar batteries facilitates increasing the conductive area and reducing internal resistance, thereby contributing to higher output power.

[0004] The electrolyte filling process for bipolar batteries is a challenging aspect of their production. It requires sequential filling, which results in low efficiency. Furthermore, improper operation or leakage can easily damage the individual bipolar battery cells during the filling process. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides a bipolar battery and an electrical device that can simplify the electrolyte filling process, avoid damage to the battery itself, and improve the electrolyte filling efficiency of the bipolar battery.

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure provides a bipolar battery, comprising:

[0007] Encapsulation housing;

[0008] Episode 1: Fluids;

[0009] Second episode of fluid;

[0010] Multiple battery cells are located within the encapsulation housing and sandwiched between the first current collector and the second current collector, with each battery cell forming a sealed cavity;

[0011] And a connecting member connected to at least a portion of the sealed cavity, the connecting member including an outlet channel, one end of the outlet channel being connected to the sealed cavity and the other end extending outside the sealed cavity, the connecting member having a first state that connects the sealed cavity to the outside and a second state that closes the outlet channel, at least a portion of the connecting members being able to communicate with each other.

[0012] The bipolar battery in this embodiment includes a casing, a first current collector, a second current collector, multiple battery cells, and a connecting member. The first and second current collectors form conductive terminals, facilitating connection of the bipolar battery to external electrical devices and providing power. Each battery cell has a sealed cavity, and the connecting member enables communication between the external environment and the sealed cavity. When the connecting member is in a first state, connecting the sealed cavity to the outside, electrolyte injection can be performed. At this time, due to the transitional function of the connecting member, it better connects to the electrolyte injection device, allowing electrolyte to enter the sealed cavity more easily. It also easily prevents electrolyte backflow and adsorption, simplifying the electrolyte injection process and avoiding damage to the bipolar battery. When the connecting member is in a closed second state, the electrolyte injection process is complete, and the bipolar battery can be completely sealed. Furthermore, based on the arrangement of the connecting members, at least some of the connecting members can be interconnected, facilitating conductivity between battery cells and further simplifying the electrolyte injection process and improving injection efficiency.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the connecting member is configured with a passive locking structure that can lock the connecting member under predetermined external conditions.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the outer periphery of the connecting member is provided with hot melt adhesive, which forms the passive locking structure. Under heating, the hot melt adhesive can solidify and wrap the connecting member tightly, so that the connecting member switches from a first state to a second state.

[0015] In one possible implementation, a hot melt ring made of hot melt adhesive is provided at a local location of the connecting member, which can solidify and seal the outlet channel under heating.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the passive locking structure includes a clamp.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the connecting member is configured with an active locking structure, enabling the connecting member to spontaneously switch from the first state to the second state.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the active locking structure includes a self-locking valve.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the connecting member is provided with a one-way valve in its outlet channel.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the connecting member is configured as a flexible tube structure.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the hose structure is made of a soft material, including at least one of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, natural rubber, and styrene-butadiene rubber.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the end of the connecting member is provided with a first connector for a sealed connection with an external device.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the bipolar battery further includes:

[0024] Liquid injection structure, wherein the liquid injection structure is configured to connect the various or some of the connecting components in the bipolar battery.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the battery cell includes a positive electrode coating, a separator, and a negative electrode coating, with the separator sandwiched between the positive electrode coating and the negative electrode coating. The two outermost battery cells are respectively connected to the first current collector and the second current collector, which extend away from each other and are respectively formed with positive and negative terminals.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the battery cell further includes an encapsulation structure comprising a structural support and an insulating protective body. The insulating protective body is sealed around the periphery of a cell structure formed by the positive electrode coating, the separator, and the negative electrode coating. The structural support is externally attached to the periphery of the cell structure. The positive and negative terminals extend out of the insulating protective body and the structural support to respectively form a positive conductive terminal and a negative conductive terminal.

[0027] In one possible implementation, each of the battery cells has a connecting member on one side.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the bipolar battery further includes:

[0029] The third current collector is located between the positive electrode dressing and the negative electrode dressing.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the injection structure includes a main pipe and a plurality of sub-pipes, the main pipe and the plurality of sub-pipes being connected, and the sub-pipes being connectable to the connecting member.

[0031] A second aspect of this disclosure provides an electrical device including the aforementioned bipolar battery. Attached Figure Description

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0033] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a bipolar battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a liquid injection structure provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a battery cell provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 4 shows a top view of a battery cell provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Reference numerals: 10-Bipolar battery; 11-Injection terminal; 12-Third current collector; 13-Connecting component terminal; 100-Encapsulation shell; 200-Battery cell; 210-Encapsulation structure; 220-Electrode core; 211-Structural support; 212-Insulating protection; 221-Current collector; 222-Positive electrode coating; 223-Separator; 224-Negative electrode coating; 221a-First current collector; 2210a-Positive terminal; 221b-Second current collector; 2210b-Negative terminal; 2211-Conductive terminal; 2211a-Positive conductive terminal; 2211b-Negative conductive terminal; 230-Sealed cavity; 20-Connecting component; 21-Lead-out channel; 22-Passive locking structure; 23-Active locking structure; 24-First connector; 30-Injection structure; 31-Main pipe; 32-Sub-pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this disclosure clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0039] One of the major challenges in the production of bipolar battery cells and bipolar batteries that integrate multiple bipolar cells is electrolyte injection.

[0040] Bipolar battery cells consist of multiple positive and negative electrodes. During electrolyte filling, a solution such as electrolyte needs to be injected between the positive and negative electrodes. However, due to the large number and thinness of the positive and negative electrodes, separation between them is difficult, making the electrolyte filling process challenging and prone to leakage, which can cause short circuits and damage the bipolar battery cell. Some methods for separating the positive and negative electrodes, such as negative pressure adsorption, can also easily damage the positive electrodes or related components, further harming the bipolar battery cell.

[0041] For bipolar batteries, in addition to the aforementioned problems, there are also drawbacks such as low injection efficiency and inconsistent injection volume during electrolyte filling. This is because, due to limitations in conditions or space, it is generally difficult to connect multiple injection devices to multiple bipolar battery cells simultaneously. Instead, each bipolar battery cell must be injected sequentially. The total injection time is at least the sum of the injection times for each individual bipolar battery cell, resulting in low injection efficiency. Furthermore, improper operation during electrolyte filling can cause vibrations and other disturbances to nearby bipolar battery cells, leading to electrolyte leakage and damage to the bipolar battery.

[0042] In summary, both bipolar battery cells and bipolar batteries suffer from problems such as easy self-damage and operational difficulties during electrolyte filling. Furthermore, bipolar batteries also face challenges such as low electrolyte filling efficiency and difficulty in uniformly dispensing electrolyte to each bipolar battery cell.

[0043] Based on this, the embodiments of this disclosure redesign the bipolar battery cell (hereinafter referred to as "battery cell") and the bipolar battery (hereinafter referred to as "battery") by incorporating a connecting component that allows for connection to the outside world. When in a connected state, this connecting component enables the battery cell to connect to an external device or the battery to an external device, such as a liquid injection device. This avoids directly connecting the liquid injection device to the battery cell or battery, simplifying the liquid injection process and preventing short circuits caused by electrolyte backflow or adsorption during liquid injection, effectively protecting the battery cell or battery. The battery, comprising multiple battery cells, also allows for conductivity between these cells based on the connecting component. This provides a structural basis for meeting the liquid injection requirements of each battery cell in a single injection, improving injection efficiency and maintaining consistent liquid injection volume across all battery cells. To achieve connectivity between the connecting components, the bipolar battery in this embodiment can be configured with a liquid injection structure. The structure and principle of the liquid injection structure are detailed in the following description.

[0044] In the embodiments of this disclosure, it should be noted that although the embodiments of this disclosure have made structural improvements and optimizations to the battery cells and the battery itself, it should be understood that the battery in the embodiments of this disclosure is not limited to being composed of the battery cells in the embodiments of this disclosure. It can also be composed of battery cells of other structural forms not mentioned in the embodiments of this disclosure, or it can be a combination of these other unmentioned battery cell structures and the battery cells in the embodiments of this disclosure. However, for the sake of simplicity and understanding, the embodiments listed in this disclosure will be described more often using the example of a battery composed of the battery cells of this disclosure, while other types of batteries will also be described.

[0045] The bipolar battery disclosed herein can be used in various electrical devices, such as electric vehicles, electric balance scooters, and other similar devices.

[0046] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a bipolar battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 1, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a bipolar battery 10, including a package housing 100, a first current collector 221a, a second current collector 221b, and a plurality of battery cells 200. Each battery cell 200 may be a bipolar battery cell 200. Each battery cell 200 may form a sealed cavity 230 together with the package housing 100, or the battery cell 200 itself may form a sealed cavity 230. Each battery cell 200 has a connecting member 20 on one side, or some battery cells 200 may have a connecting member 20. The connecting member 20 includes an outlet channel 21, one end of which is connected to the sealed cavity 230, and the other end extends out of the sealed cavity 230. The connecting member 20 has a first state that connects the sealed cavity 230 to the outside and a second state that closes the outlet channel 21. At least some of the connecting members 20 are interconnected.

[0047] As a battery, it needs to be completely sealed. Therefore, a casing 100 is provided around the periphery of multiple battery cells 200, which can seal all battery cells 200. On the other hand, for a single battery cell 200, it can be encapsulated by itself and then placed together with other battery cells 200 in the casing 100 to form a battery. Alternatively, multiple battery cells 200 can share a single casing 100, and then each battery cell 200 can achieve its own encapsulation through internal structural design. In both cases, the battery cell 200 can form a sealed cavity 230.

[0048] For each battery cell 200, each connecting member 20 is located on the same side of the battery, so the other side opposite to this side can be used as the electrolyte injection end 11, from which the electrolyte can enter the battery.

[0049] Figure 1 shows the orientation of the battery in the electrolyte injection state. In this orientation, each connecting member 20 is at the lower end and the electrolyte injection end 11 is at the upper end. After the electrolyte is injected, the electrolyte can quickly flow into the battery under the action of gravity.

[0050] In this battery, each connecting member 20 can connect to the corresponding sealed cavity 230 and the outside world, and each connecting member 20 can also be closed. During operation, the liquid injection process can be completed by switching the state of each connecting member 20.

[0051] The battery in this embodiment includes a casing 100, a first current collector 221a, a second current collector 221b, multiple battery cells 200, and a connecting member 20. The first current collector 221a and the second current collector 221b form conductive terminals, facilitating connection of the bipolar battery to external electrical devices and providing power to those devices. Each battery cell 200 has a sealed cavity 230. The connecting member 20 enables communication between the outside world and the sealed cavity 230. When the connecting member 20 is in a first state, connecting the sealed cavity 230 to the outside world, electrolyte injection can be performed. At this time, due to the transitional function of the connecting member 20, it better connects to the electrolyte injection device, allowing the electrolyte to more easily enter the sealed cavity 230. It also easily prevents electrolyte backflow and adsorption, simplifying the electrolyte injection operation and avoiding damage to the bipolar battery. When the connecting member is in a closed second state, the electrolyte injection process is complete, and the bipolar battery can be completely sealed. Furthermore, based on the arrangement of each connecting member 20, at least some of the connecting members 20 can be interconnected, which makes it easy for each battery cell 200 to conduct, and can also achieve the purpose of simplifying the liquid injection operation and improving the liquid injection efficiency.

[0052] In some cases, to maintain uniform battery performance, the battery is composed of multiple battery cells 200 of the same model, and these battery cells 200 are all provided with connecting members 20. Through proper operation and design, a battery with uniform overall performance can be manufactured. For batteries in this case, the above function can be achieved by connecting all the connecting members 20 during the electrolyte filling operation.

[0053] In other cases, to improve the energy density of the battery, it can also be composed of different types of battery cells 200 (similar to an AB unequal-height battery, which is composed of battery cells 200A and 200B of different sizes). Some of the battery cells 200 may have connecting members 20, while others may not. In this case, all the connecting members 20 can be connected during the electrolyte filling operation.

[0054] In other cases, there may be various combinations of battery cells 200, and the combinations may be diverse, even exceeding the aforementioned AB unequal height batteries. Depending on the specific application scenario, the battery cells 200 equipped with the connecting member 20 may not all be connected, for example, they may be connected in batches. In this case, the electrolyte injection operation can be performed in batches to meet the specific usage requirements of the battery.

[0055] Furthermore, the encapsulation housing 100 can be designed to completely enclose the battery cell 200, while allowing the conductive terminals of the battery to extend beyond the encapsulation housing 100. Alternatively, the encapsulation housing 100 can be designed as a split structure, with multiple split structures combined to encapsulate the battery.

[0056] When encapsulating the battery, it can be achieved by potting, that is, laying a sealant around the battery (which can form an insulating protective body 212 as described below), and then curing it by heating to surround the battery cell 200. In order to improve the overall strength of the battery, a layer of high-strength outer casing can be attached to the outer casing of the sealant. The outer casing can be made of metal materials, such as aluminum, or a metal encapsulation film can be used to wrap the sealant.

[0057] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a liquid injection structure provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] In this embodiment of the disclosure, for batteries that require simultaneous and batch injection of liquid, the bipolar battery in this embodiment of the disclosure may further include a detachable liquid injection structure 30, which is configured to connect each or part of the connecting members 20 in the bipolar battery 10.

[0059] It is understandable that when the liquid injection structure 30 is configured to connect each connecting member 20, simultaneous liquid injection into the battery can be achieved; when the liquid injection structure 30 is configured to connect some connecting members 20, the liquid injection structure 30 can achieve batch liquid injection into the battery.

[0060] Based on this liquid injection structure 30, the connection of the connecting components 20 can be achieved, thereby simplifying the liquid injection operation, improving the liquid injection efficiency, and maintaining the same liquid injection volume for each battery cell 200.

[0061] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 1 and 2, the injection structure 30 includes a main pipe 31 and a plurality of sub-pipes 32, the main pipe 31 and the sub-pipes 32 being connected, and the sub-pipes 32 being connected to the connecting member 20.

[0062] In the above-described electrolyte injection structure 30, each sub-channel 32 can be connected to a connecting member 20. The electrolyte injected from the injection end 11 can flow from one of the sealed cavities and through one sub-channel 32 into the main channel 31, and then be transferred from the main channel 31 to the other sub-channels 32. After a certain period of time, the electrolyte can fill each sealed cavity 230, thus realizing the electrolyte injection of the battery.

[0063] In the above-described liquid injection structure 30, the connection between the main pipe 31 and the sub-pipe 32 makes the liquid injection structure 30 easy to manufacture, and at the same time, the internal structure is simple, which is conducive to the rapid flow of electrolyte.

[0064] In some embodiments, a buffer platform can be provided in the main pipe 31. The buffer platform can be made of a soft material and can be directly opposite one of the sub-pipes 32, for example, the sub-pipe 32 opposite to the injection end 11 (in the following description, the sub-pipe 32 is defined as the main sub-pipe). Thus, during the injection process, after the electrolyte flows into the main pipe 31, the electrolyte can be quickly concentrated, which can avoid the electrolyte being rapidly dispersed due to impact, and is conducive to the rapid flow of the electrolyte in the injection structure 30.

[0065] In some embodiments, the main pipe 31 can be designed as a variable diameter structure, that is, the part near the main sub-pipe is designed to have a larger inner diameter, while the part far from the main sub-pipe is designed to have a smaller inner diameter. As a result, the electrolyte flowing in from the main sub-pipe can have a smaller flow velocity near it, while the flow velocity will gradually increase as the distance increases. This helps to balance the time for the electrolyte to fill each sub-pipe 32, further shortening the injection time and improving the injection efficiency.

[0066] In some embodiments, the inner diameter of each sub-pipe 32 can be the same, so that when the liquid levels in each sub-pipe 32 are equal, the volume of electrolyte in each battery cell 200 is the same, thus achieving the purpose of consistent electrolyte injection.

[0067] In some embodiments, the main pipe 31 and the sub-pipe 32 can be integrally injection molded, or the main pipe 31 and the sub-pipe 32 can be machined separately, and then the sub-pipe 32 can be installed onto the main pipe 31. Furthermore, the molding materials of the main pipe 31 and the sub-pipe 32 can be the same or different, and the material selection can be set according to actual needs.

[0068] In addition to the above-described structural form, the injection structure 30 can also be designed as a single tube, for example, by designing a long conduit with through holes at corresponding positions, which can also achieve communication between the connecting components 20. Furthermore, the injection structure 30 can also have other shapes, for example, it can be designed as a combination of multiple bent tubes. The specific structural shape of the injection structure 30 is not particularly limited in the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0069] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a battery cell 200 provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4 shows a top view of a battery cell 200 provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figures 3 and 4, in this embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery cell 200 itself can form the aforementioned sealed cavity 230. The battery cell 200 includes an encapsulation structure 210 and an electrode core 220, and the aforementioned connecting member 20 can be connected to the sealed cavity 230.

[0070] The encapsulation structure 210 serves as a protective and insulating structure for the battery cell 200. It protects the electrode core 220 housed within the encapsulation structure 210 and also provides insulation for certain components within the electrode core 220. The encapsulation structure 210 is designed as a fully enclosed structure, with a sealed cavity 230 formed inside.

[0071] The electrode core 220 is disposed inside the sealed cavity 230, and current collectors 221 can be disposed on both sides of the electrode core 220.

[0072] The connecting member 20 includes an outlet channel 21, one end of which is connected to the sealed cavity 230 and the other end extends out of the sealed cavity 230. The connecting member 20 has a first state that connects the sealed cavity 230 to the outside and a second state that closes the outlet channel 21.

[0073] It should be noted that the lead-out channel 21 is a through-channel structure. After passing through the encapsulation structure 210, the lead-out channel 21 can connect the sealed cavity 230 with the outside world, at which point the connecting member 20 is in the first state. When one end of the lead-out channel 21 located outside the sealed cavity 230 or a certain position of the lead-out channel 21 is closed, the connecting member 20 is in the second state.

[0074] The battery cell 200 in the above embodiment includes an encapsulation structure 210 and an electrode core 220. The current collector 221 extends from the sealed cavity 230 to form a conductive end 2211, facilitating connection of the battery cell 200 to external electrical equipment and providing power to the equipment. The connecting member 20 enables communication between the outside world and the sealed cavity 230. When the connecting member 20 is in the first state, connecting the sealed cavity 230 to the outside world, electrolyte injection can be performed. Based on the transitional function of the connecting member 20, it better connects to the electrolyte injection device, allowing electrolyte to more easily enter the sealed cavity 230. It also easily prevents electrolyte backflow and adsorption, simplifying the injection operation and avoiding damage to the battery cell 200. When the connecting member 20 is in the closed second state, the electrolyte injection process is complete, and the battery cell 200 can be completely sealed. Furthermore, when the battery cell 200 is used to form a bipolar battery 10, the arrangement of each connecting member 20 makes it easy for each battery cell 200 to conduct, which also simplifies the liquid injection operation.

[0075] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the key to the function of the connecting member 20 lies in the switching of its state, such as switching from a first state to a second state. It is understood that, for the battery cell 2002 described above, before electrolyte injection, the connecting member 20 is in the first state, and after electrolyte injection, the connecting member 20 switches to the second state. To achieve the switching of the state of the connecting member 20, the embodiments of this disclosure will be described from three directions: passive switching, active switching, and natural switching. Natural switching means that the connecting member 20 itself has a state-switching function, or that certain designs of itself can achieve the effect of state switching. Regarding the above three directions, the embodiments of the connecting member 20 in this disclosure can be divided into three categories: the first category, the second category, and the third category.

[0076] In the first type of embodiment, the connecting member 20 is provided with a passive locking structure 22, which can lock the connecting member 20 under predetermined external conditions, thereby causing the connecting member 20 to switch from a first state to a second state.

[0077] In this first type of embodiment, since the switching of the state of the connecting member 20 is passive, external factors are required for the switching to occur. This setting method can be selectively operated according to the progress of the liquid injection process, thus avoiding state switching caused by misoperation.

[0078] In some specific embodiments, a hot melt adhesive is provided on the outer periphery of the connecting member 20, which forms a passive locking structure 22. Under heating, the hot melt adhesive can solidify and wrap the connecting member 20 so that the connecting member 20 switches from the first state to the second state.

[0079] In the specific embodiments described above, the hot melt adhesive is designed as a passive locking structure 22. Heating to a certain temperature is a predetermined external condition. When the hot melt adhesive is heated to the predetermined temperature, it begins to melt. After a certain period of time, the melted hot melt adhesive can solidify and wrap the connecting member 20, thereby realizing the switching of the state of the connecting member 20.

[0080] In the above specific embodiments, hot melt adhesive is readily available and low in cost. At the same time, the hot melt adhesive is easy to mold, which can ensure the sealing effect on the connecting member 20.

[0081] In the specific design, hot melt adhesive can be integrated into the encapsulation structure 210 and brought closer to the connecting member 20. The hot melt adhesive can also be designed with a certain shape, such as a shape that supports the connecting member 20, such as an arc structure, so that before liquid injection, the hot melt adhesive can support the connecting member 20, and after liquid injection, it can wrap the connecting member 20 tightly.

[0082] In embodiments employing hot melt adhesive as the passive locking structure 22, the connecting member 20 can be designed as a flexible tube, the molding material of which includes at least one of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, natural rubber, and styrene-butadiene rubber. The connecting member 20 made from the above materials is low in cost and has stable performance, allowing for a stable connection of the connecting member 20 to the encapsulation structure 210.

[0083] In the embodiment where hot melt adhesive is used to form the passive locking structure 22, the hot melt adhesive can also be integrated into the connecting member 20. For example, a hot melt ring made of hot melt adhesive is provided at a local position of the connecting member 20. Under heating, the hot melt can solidify and seal the outlet channel 21.

[0084] Integrating hot melt adhesive directly onto the connecting member 20 simplifies the structural composition of the battery unit 200 and makes it easy to switch the state of the connecting member 20.

[0085] In some specific embodiments, the passive locking structure 22 may also include a clamp, which is seamlessly connected to the connecting member 20 by mechanical connection. After the liquid injection is completed, the state of the connecting member 20 can be switched by applying force. The operation is simple, stable and reliable.

[0086] In the specific embodiments described above, the passive locking structure 22 is a clamp, and the predetermined external condition is an external force, which can be applied by the operator or by certain automated equipment, such as a robotic arm.

[0087] In this first type of embodiment, the passive locking structure 22 can also be other structures, and the predetermined external conditions can also be changed accordingly. For example, a rope can be threaded inside the connecting member 20, leaving both ends of the rope exposed. The rope can be elastic, and the lead-out channel 21 can be closed by tightening the two ends of the rope. In addition, the passive locking structure 22 and the predetermined external conditions can also be combined in other ways, which are not limited in this disclosure.

[0088] In the second type of embodiment, the connecting member 20 is configured with an active locking structure 23, which enables the connecting member 20 to spontaneously switch from the first state to the second state.

[0089] The active locking structure 23 here can be understood as a structure that can accept remote control and perform corresponding operations. The setting of the active locking structure 23 can simplify the operation and make the state switching of the connecting member 20 quick. This timeliness can avoid phenomena such as electrolyte backflow and leakage.

[0090] In some specific embodiments, the active locking structure 23 includes a self-locking valve, which can be designed to have a normally open state and a normally closed state. Before liquid injection, the self-locking valve is in the normally open state, and after liquid injection, the self-locking valve is in the normally closed state.

[0091] The self-locking valve is designed for easy operation by staff, allowing for one-button switching of the state of the connecting component 20. It is simple and easy to operate.

[0092] The self-locking valve can be designed, for example, to consist of two valve bodies. An elastic element is installed within each valve body, which is normally in a stretched state. A valve core, a rod-shaped structure, is positioned between the two valve bodies, with its two ends abutting against the two valve bodies. Its purpose is to overcome the effect of the elastic element and achieve the normally open state of the self-locking valve. After the liquid injection is completed, by controlling the valve core to drop, the elastic element tends to contract. Under this tendency, the two valve bodies can change from a normally open state to a normally closed state, thus simultaneously achieving the state switching of the connecting member 20.

[0093] As a structure that can be remotely controlled, the falling of the valve core can be automatically controlled. When designing the structure, the structure that abuts against any end of the valve core can be designed to be controllable. For example, it can be a solenoid valve or an electric telescopic structure. The falling of the valve core can be achieved by opening the solenoid valve or retracting the electric telescopic structure.

[0094] Of course, the valve core can also be removed manually, in which case the automatic valve can also be applied in the aforementioned first type of embodiment.

[0095] In addition to the above, the self-locking valve may adopt relevant structures in the prior art, and this disclosure does not limit its specific structural formation and self-locking method.

[0096] Understandably, the self-locking valve can be connected to the outer periphery of the connecting member 20, or integrated into the connecting member 20.

[0097] In addition to using an automatic valve as the active locking structure 23, the active locking structure 23 can also be other controllable structures, which are not limited in this disclosure.

[0098] In the third embodiment, the connecting member 20 is provided with a one-way valve in its outlet channel 21. Taking the orientation shown in FIG1 as an example, the one-way valve can allow liquid to enter the sealed cavity 230 from bottom to top, but can prevent liquid from flowing from top to bottom.

[0099] It is understandable that by setting this one-way valve, not only can the state of the connecting component 20 be changed, but the electrolyte backflow can also be prevented, thereby improving the injection effect.

[0100] The check valve can be installed at one end of the outlet channel 21 that extends out of the sealed cavity 230. This design allows operators to easily check the status of the check valve and facilitates later maintenance and replacement.

[0101] As mentioned in the first type of embodiment above, the connecting member 20 in this disclosure embodiment can be designed as a flexible hose structure, which has the advantages of convenient use and low cost. In other embodiments of this disclosure, the connecting member 20 can also be designed as flat or other shapes, and its material can be selected according to actual needs, and does not have to be a flexible material.

[0102] As described above, the connecting member 20 in this embodiment needs to be connected to external devices. These external devices can be liquid injection devices or the liquid injection structure 30 in the above embodiments, such as the sub-pipe 32 in the liquid injection structure 30. To improve the reliability of the connection, a first connector 24 can be provided at the end of the connecting member 20. The first connector 24 can adopt a general structural form, such as a threaded ring structure or a sealing ring.

[0103] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 3 and 4, which show the packaging structure of a single cell unit. The electrode core 220 includes a positive electrode dressing 222, a separator 223, and a negative electrode dressing 224. The separator 223 is sandwiched between the positive electrode dressing 222 and the negative electrode dressing 224. A first current collector 221a may be provided on one side of the positive electrode dressing 222, and a second current collector 221b may be provided on one side of the negative electrode dressing 224. The first current collector 221a and the second current collector 221b extend in a direction away from each other and respectively form a positive terminal 2210a and a negative terminal 2210b.

[0104] It is understood that the positive electrode dressing 222 contains positive electrode active material, the negative electrode dressing 224 contains negative electrode active material, and the separator 223 is used to separate the positive electrode dressing 222 and the negative electrode dressing 224 to prevent short circuits between them. The first current collector 221a is used to collect electrical energy from the positive electrode dressing 222, and the second current collector 221b is used to collect electrical energy from the negative electrode dressing 224. In the above-mentioned electrode core 220 structure, the design of the first current collector 221a and the second current collector 221b extending in a direction away from each other and respectively forming the positive terminal 2210a and the negative terminal 2210b, allows the electrolyte to fill the entire path of the battery cell 200 during the electrolyte injection process, which is beneficial to improving the overall performance of the battery cell 200.

[0105] In some embodiments, the encapsulation structure 210 includes a structural support 211 and an insulating protective body 212. The insulating protective body 212 is sealed around the outer periphery of the cell structure formed by the positive electrode dressing 222, the separator 223, and the negative electrode dressing 224. The structural support 211 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the cell structure. The positive terminal 2210a and the negative terminal 2210b extend out of the insulating protective body 212 and the structural support 211 to form the positive conductive terminal 2211a and the negative conductive terminal 2211b, respectively.

[0106] The battery cell structure is where electrochemical reactions occur to generate current. In addition to protecting the battery cell structure, the insulating protective body 212 also needs to seal and insulate related structures. For example, it needs to prevent short circuits between the first current collector 221a and the second current collector 221b. Therefore, the insulating protective body 212 needs to surround and separate the first current collector 221a and the second current collector 221b. The structural support 211 plays a crucial role in the overall structural strength of the battery, preventing damage caused by drops or other factors.

[0107] In some specific embodiments, the insulating protective body 212 can be sealed and insulated using sealant, similar to the description of the battery encapsulation shell 100 above, and will not be repeated here. The structural support body 211 can be made of a high-strength material such as metal, also similar to the description of the battery encapsulation shell 100 above, and will not be repeated here either.

[0108] To better understand the main points and features of the embodiments of this disclosure, the structure of the battery and battery cell 200 and the liquid injection operation will be described below in conjunction with some parts of the above embodiments of this disclosure. Other structures not mentioned in the following description can be referred to other parts of the above embodiments.

[0109] First, please refer to Figure 1, which shows the orientation of the battery during the electrolyte filling process. The battery includes multiple battery cells 200, which can be bipolar battery cells 200. Each battery cell 200 includes a positive electrode coating 222, a negative electrode coating 224, and a separator 222. The battery also includes a third current collector 12, which can be a composite current collector and is located between two adjacent battery cells 200. The multiple battery cells 200 are arranged in a left-right direction and are arranged within the battery's encapsulation casing. The third current collector 12 is located between the positive electrode coating 222 and the negative electrode coating 224. The third current collector 12 has both positive and negative active materials, allowing battery cells 200 to be connected to both sides of the third current collector 12. Each battery cell 200 forms a sealed cavity 230 and is also provided with a connecting member 20 that can communicate with the sealed cavity 230. Multiple connecting members 20 are located at the lower end of the battery in a vertical direction and are arranged in a row at the lower end.

[0110] Before electrolyte injection, the battery needs to be sealed, but the injection end 11 and the connecting component end 13 need to be left open. Taking the orientation shown in Figure 1 as an example, the injection end 11 is the upper end, and the connecting component end 13 is the lower end. At this time, for the battery as a whole, it is in a connected state from top to bottom, that is, from the injection end 11 to the connecting component end 13. During electrolyte injection, an injection structure 30 including a main pipe 31 and multiple sub-pipes 32 is selected. The sub-pipes 32 are connected to multiple connecting components 20. Each sub-pipe 32 is connected to a connecting component 20. After the connection is completed, the electrolyte is injected from the injection end 11. After a certain period of time, the electrolyte can be evenly dispersed into each battery cell 200 through the injection structure 30, thus completing the electrolyte injection. After the electrolyte injection is completed, the battery needs to be completely sealed, that is, the injection end 11 is closed, and the connecting component end 13 is closed at the same time. For the latter, after the electrolyte injection is completed, the connecting component 20 can be detached and then closed, or the connecting component 20 can be closed together. The entire liquid injection process is simple to operate. Liquid injection can be completed for all battery cells 200 in one operation, which greatly improves the liquid injection efficiency. At the same time, based on the principle of communicating vessels, the liquid injection volume in each sealed cavity 230 can be kept consistent, which can improve the overall performance of the bipolar battery 10.

[0111] Please refer to Figure 3, which shows the orientation of the battery cell 200 during the electrolyte filling process. The battery cell 200 includes an encapsulation structure 210, a positive electrode coating 222, a separator 223, and a negative electrode coating 224. A first current collector 221a and a second current collector 221b are provided on both sides of the battery cell 200. The positive electrode coating 222, the separator 223, and the negative electrode coating 224 are stacked together to form an electrode core 220. The first current collector 221a and the second current collector 221b extend out of the encapsulation structure 210 to form a positive electrode conductive end 2211a and a negative electrode conductive end 2211b, respectively. The battery cell 200 also includes a connecting member 20, which can connect to the sealed cavity 230 of the encapsulation structure 210.

[0112] Before electrolyte injection, the battery cell 200 needs to be sealed, but the connecting member 20 must remain open; that is, the connecting member 20 is not sealed. During electrolyte injection, the electrolyte is injected through the connecting member 20, allowing it to flow into the battery cell 200, thus completing the injection process. After injection, the connecting member 20 can be either detached and then resealed, or it can be sealed along with the battery cell. In this case, due to the transitional function of the connecting member 20, it better connects to the injection equipment, allowing the electrolyte to more easily enter the sealed cavity 230. It also effectively prevents electrolyte backflow and adsorption, simplifying the injection process and avoiding damage to the bipolar battery cell 200.

[0113] For the battery cell 200, it is understood that in addition to liquid injection through the connecting member 20, liquid injection can also be completed at the end of the battery cell 200 opposite to the connecting member 20, or liquid injection can be carried out from other areas. Such liquid injection operation can refer to the prior art and will not be described in detail here.

[0114] In the description of this disclosure, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure.

[0115] In the description of this disclosure, it should be understood that the terms “comprising” and “having” as used herein, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, for example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are expressly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not expressly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, product, or device.

[0116] Unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the connection within two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure according to the specific circumstances. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated.

[0117] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this disclosure, and are not intended to limit them. Although this disclosure has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such 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 disclosure.

Claims

1. A bipolar battery (10), characterized in that, include: Encapsulation housing (100); First current collector (221a); Second current collector (221b); Multiple battery cells (200) are located within the encapsulation housing (100) and sandwiched between the first current collector (221a) and the second current collector (221b), and each battery cell (200) forms a sealed cavity (230); And a connecting member (20) connected to at least a portion of the sealed cavity (230), the connecting member (20) including an outlet channel (21), one end of the outlet channel (21) being connected to the sealed cavity (230) and the other end extending out of the sealed cavity (230), the connecting member (20) having a first state that connects the sealed cavity (230) to the outside and a second state that closes the outlet channel (21), at least a portion of the connecting members (20) being able to communicate with each other.

2. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting member (20) is equipped with a passive locking structure (22), which can lock the connecting member (20) under predetermined external conditions.

3. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer periphery of the connecting member (20) is provided with hot melt adhesive, which forms the passive locking structure (22). Under heating, the hot melt adhesive can solidify and wrap the connecting member (20) so that the connecting member (20) switches from the first state to the second state.

4. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, A hot melt ring made of hot melt adhesive is provided at a local position of the connecting member (20). Under heating, the hot melt ring can solidify and seal the outlet channel (21).

5. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The passive locking structure (22) includes a clamp.

6. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting member (20) is equipped with an active locking structure (23) so that the connecting member (20) can spontaneously switch from the first state to the second state.

7. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The active locking structure (23) includes a self-locking valve.

8. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting member (20) is provided with a one-way valve in its outlet channel (21).

9. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting member (20) is configured as a flexible tube structure.

10. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The hose structure is made of a soft material, which includes at least one of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, natural rubber, and styrene-butadiene rubber.

11. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end of the connecting member (20) is provided with a first connector (24) for sealing connection with external equipment.

12. The bipolar battery (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The bipolar battery (10) further includes: Liquid injection structure (30) configured to connect each or part of the connecting members (20) in the bipolar battery (10).

13. The bipolar battery (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The battery cell (200) includes a positive electrode coating (222), a separator (223), and a negative electrode coating (224). The separator (223) is sandwiched between the positive electrode coating (222) and the negative electrode coating (224). The two outermost battery cells (200) are connected to the first current collector (221a) and the second current collector (221b) respectively. The first current collector (221a) and the second current collector (221b) extend away from each other and are respectively formed with a positive terminal (2210a) and a negative terminal (2210b).

14. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The battery cell (200) further includes an encapsulation structure (210), which includes a structural support (211) and an insulating protective body (212). The insulating protective body (212) is sealed around the outer periphery of the cell structure formed by the positive electrode coating (222), the separator (223), and the negative electrode coating (224). The structural support (211) is wrapped around the outer periphery of the cell structure. The positive terminal (2210a) and the negative terminal (2210b) extend out of the insulating protective body (212) and the structural support (211) to form a positive conductive terminal (2211a) and a negative conductive terminal (2211b) respectively.

15. The bipolar battery (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, Each of the battery cells (200) has a connecting member (20) on one side.

16. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The bipolar battery also includes: A third current collector (12) is located between the positive electrode dressing (222) and the negative electrode dressing (224).

17. The bipolar battery (10) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The injection structure (30) includes a main pipe (31) and a plurality of sub-pipes (32), the main pipe (31) and the plurality of sub-pipes (32) are connected, and the sub-pipes (32) can be connected to the connecting member (20).

18. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, Includes the bipolar battery (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

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