Patent Description:
Energy storage devices have high requirements for their performance. In the related art, the energy storage device includes a terminal post arranged at an electrode assembly and a tab arranged at a top cover, and it is necessary for the tab to be connected to and electrically conducted with the terminal post via an adapter. Specifically, during assembling of the energy storage device, two side portions of the adapter are respectively connected to the terminal post and the tab, and then the two side portions of the adapter are folded with respect to each other, to enable the adapter to be received between the electrode assembly and the top cover. However, how to prolong the service life of the energy storage device has become an urgent problem to be solved. <CIT> relates to a battery cell, a battery, an electric device, a manufacturing method and equipment thereof. The battery cell includes: an electrode terminal; an electrode assembly; the electrode assembly comprises an electrode terminal, an adapter part and at least one bending part, wherein the adapter part comprises a first adapter part, a second adapter part and at least one bending part; and the protection part is arranged on at least part of the bending part to reduce the deformation of the bending part in the using process. <CIT> relates to a power battery fuse, comprising an insulation box and a safety sheet fixed in the insulation box, wherein the safety sheet has an upper connection piece, a lower connection piece and a bending part connecting the upper connection piece and the lower connection piece, and the bending part has a fusing part provided thereon. The power battery fuse is characterized by shock resistance, waterproofness and occupation of small space.

In view of this, an objective of the present invention is to provide an adapter assembly, an energy storage device and a power consuming apparatus, so as to solve the problem of low service life of the energy storage device.

In a first aspect, an implementation of the present invention provides an adapter assembly, including: an adapter, including a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and a bendable connecting portion connected between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, the first connecting portion being arranged opposite the second connecting portion; and a limiting member, which is located between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion foldable with respect to each other, and which is configured to be insulated from the adapter, where the limiting member has a limiting face configured to abut against the bendable connecting portion, and the bendable connecting portion is configured to rotate and bend around the limiting face.

The adapter assembly provided in the implementation of the present invention is based on adding a limiting member between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion which can be folded with respect to each other, and the limiting member can buffer the bendable connecting portion, so that the limiting member can absorb and disperse the stress of the bendable connecting portion during bending, so as to improve the structural stress strength of the bendable connecting portion during the bending, and the problem of breakage of the bendable connecting portion due to excessive stress can thus be effectively avoided, thereby prolonging the service life.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the limiting member has a thickness of <NUM>-<NUM> in a thickness direction of the adapter assembly. In this way, stress fatigue or even breakage of the bendable connecting portion of the adapter is avoided during the bending, and the reliability of use of the adapter is improved. Moreover, the space occupied by the limiting member is reduced in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly, effectively reducing the thickness of the adapter assembly, and further adapting to the market demand for the miniaturization of the adapter assembly.

With reference to the first aspect, the limiting member includes a limiting body and a movable rotary cover rotatably connected to the limiting body, and the limiting body is configured to abut against the first connecting portion, and the movable rotary cover is configured to abut against the second connecting portion. The bending range of the bendable connecting portion is limited by the bending range of the movable rotary cover relative to the limiting body, so as to avoid the breakage of the bendable connecting portion during the bending. Moreover, the movable rotary cover is rotatably connected to the limiting body, so as to avoid the recessed deformation of a surface of the limiting member under pressure, so that the limiting member has a good pressure resistance capacity, thereby improving the buffering effect of the limiting member on the bendable connecting portion.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first connecting portion, the limiting body, the movable rotary cover and the second connecting portion are stacked in sequence in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly, so that the overall structure of the adapter assembly is more compact, achieving beneficial effects such as saving space, and facilitating the mounting and dismounting of the limiting member.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the limiting body is integrally formed with the movable rotary cover, and the limiting member is configured as a bendable structure. The connection strength between the limiting body and the movable rotary cover is increased, the assembly efficiency between the limiting member and the adapter is improved, and the processing and production process of the limiting member is facilitated. Moreover, the movable rotary cover can weaken the squeezing force of the limiting member from the bendable connecting portion.

With reference to the first aspect, the first connecting portion includes a first welding area, the limiting body defines a window for exposing the first welding area, the adapter assembly further includes a first insulating film, and the first insulating film is arranged at the window and shields the window. In this way, the first insulating film can prevent the risk of a short circuit caused by metal chips such as welding slag and rusty slag at the first connecting portion falling into the energy storage device, facilitating the improvement of the yield and safety of the energy storage device. Moreover, the first insulating film can further avoid the problem of short circuit caused by contact between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, a ratio of a length of the window to a length of the limiting body is <NUM>-<NUM>, so as to prevent the limiting member from being misaligned with the first connecting portion due to the displacement caused by vibration during transportation of the energy storage device, thereby effectively blocking the welding slag of the first connecting portion and improving the safety of the energy storage device.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first insulating film is clamped between the limiting body and the movable rotary cover, thereby reducing the displacement or detachment of the first insulating film during the movement of the energy storage device, and improving the assembly efficiency of the first insulating film.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the limiting body is fixed to the first connecting portion via the first insulating film. In this way, the connection strength between the first insulating film and the first connecting portion is increased to further reduce the displacement or detachment of the first insulating film during the movement of the energy storage device. Moreover, the position of the limiting member is defined, so as to ensure that the bendable connecting portion can be rotated and bent around the limiting face of the limiting member, and to improve the assembly efficiency of the limiting body.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the limiting body is fixed to the first connecting portion, so as to increase the connection strength between the limiting member and the adapter, to better fix the relative position of the limiting member, thereby avoiding the displacement of the limiting member and the resulting abnormal bending of the bendable connecting portion.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the adapter assembly further includes a second insulating film, with the second insulating film being clamped between the first insulating film and the movable rotary cover. In this way, the second insulating film can prevent the risk of a short circuit caused by metal chips such as welding slag and rusty slag at the second connecting portion falling into the energy storage device, facilitating the improvement of the yield and safety of the energy storage device. Moreover, the second insulating film can further avoid the problem of short circuit caused by contact between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the second connecting portion includes a second welding area, and the movable rotary cover defines a notch at a position corresponding to the second welding area to expose the second insulating film. In this way, the second insulating film can cover the entire second welding area, further avoiding the risk of a short circuit caused by the metal chips such as welding slag and rusty slag at the second connecting portion falling into the energy storage device, and improving the yield and safety of the energy storage device.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, an orthographic projection of the notch on the first insulating film is spaced apart from an orthographic projection of the window on the first insulating film. In this way, the risk of a short circuit caused by contact between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is avoided. Moreover, the risk of a short circuit caused by the contact between the metal chips such as welding slag and rusty slag and the first connecting portion or the second connecting portion through the window and the notch is avoided. Furthermore, the occurrence of displacement caused by the movable rotary cover pushing the first insulating film and the second insulating film is avoided.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the second insulating film includes a first film body attached to the first insulating film and a second film body foldable with respect to and connected to the first film body, with the second film body facing the second connecting portion, so as to better fix the relative positions of the first insulating film and the second insulating film.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the bendable connecting portion defines a through hole to form, on two opposite sides of the through hole, a first fuse portion and a second fuse portion connected to the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, and the limiting member shields at least a part of the through hole. In this way, firstly, when the energy storage device is out of control, the first fuse portion and the second fuse portion are fused, so that an open circuit state is formed between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, and there is no voltage output, protecting the energy storage device and preventing explosion and fire; and the limiting member can increase the insulation of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion on two sides of a fuse connecting portion, thereby further increasing the arc extinguishing effect. Secondly, it is ensured that after the displacement of the first insulating film and the second insulating film, the limiting member can still isolate the first connecting portion from the second connecting portion to prevent a contact short circuit. Thirdly, after the fuse connecting portion is fused, the arrangement of the limiting member can avoid the problem of short circuit caused by a further overlapping joint between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. Fourthly, the problem of potential safety hazard caused by the metal chips entering the interior of the energy storage device through the through hole is avoided.

With reference to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the limiting member is of a plastic structure. In this way, the insulating effect of the limiting member is realized. Moreover, the buffering effect of the limiting member is improved. Furthermore, the production cost is reduced. In addition, the frictional force between the first insulating film and the second insulating film is increased, avoiding the displacement of the first insulating film and the second insulating film.

In a second aspect, an implementation of the present invention provides an energy storage device, including a terminal post, a tab, and an adapter assembly as described above, where the first connecting portion of the adapter assembly is electrically connected to the terminal post, and the second connecting portion of the adapter assembly is electrically connected to the tab, so as to prolong the service life of the energy storage device.

In a third aspect, an implementation of the present invention provides a power consuming apparatus, including an energy storage device as described above, the energy storage device supplying electric energy to the power consuming apparatus, so as to prolong the service life of the power consuming apparatus.

In order to more clearly describe the technical solutions in the implementations of the present invention or in the prior art, the drawings required for describing the implementations or the prior art will be briefly described below. Apparently, the drawings in the following description merely show some of the implementations of the present invention, and those of ordinary skill in the art would have obtained other drawings according to these drawings without involving any inventive effort.

Power consuming apparatus <NUM>; Energy storage device <NUM>; Housing <NUM>; Opening <NUM>; Receiving cavity <NUM>; End cap assembly <NUM>; End cap <NUM>; Terminal post <NUM>; Electrode assembly <NUM>; Battery cell <NUM>; Tab <NUM>; First connecting section <NUM>; Second connecting section <NUM>; Third connecting section <NUM>; Adapter assembly <NUM>; Lower plastic member <NUM>; Limiting groove <NUM>; Limiting boss <NUM>; Adapter <NUM>; First half-folding axis P1; Second half-folding axis P2; Adapter main body <NUM>; Gap <NUM>; Arc-shaped structure <NUM>; First connecting portion <NUM>; First welding area <NUM>; First non-welding area <NUM>; Second connecting portion <NUM>; Second welding area <NUM>; Second non-welding area <NUM>; First connecting plate <NUM>; Second connecting plate <NUM>; Insertion space <NUM>; Bendable connecting portion <NUM>; Through hole <NUM>; First linear section <NUM>; First corner section <NUM>; Second corner section <NUM>; Second linear section <NUM>; Third linear section <NUM>; Fourth linear section <NUM>; First distance D1; Second distance D2; Third distance D3; Fourth distance D4; Fifth distance D5; Sixth distance D6; Seventh distance D7; First length L1; Second length L2; First fuse portion <NUM>; Second fuse portion <NUM>; Fusing direction F11; Fusing direction F12; Bending direction F2; Limiting member <NUM>; Limiting face <NUM>; Limiting body <NUM>; Window <NUM>; Storage tank <NUM>; Movable rotary cover <NUM>; Notch <NUM>; Fixing portion <NUM>; Extension portion <NUM>; Thickness H; Thickness T; Length C1; Length C2; Length C3; Length C4; Width W1; Width W2; First insulating film <NUM>; Second insulating film <NUM>; First film body <NUM>; Second film body <NUM>.

The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The technical solutions in the implementations of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the implementations of the present invention. Apparently, the implementations described are merely some rather than all of the implementations of the present invention. Based on the implementations of the present invention, all other implementations obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without any creative effort fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

It can be understood that the terms in the specification, the claims and the above drawings of the present invention are only for describing specific implementations, and are not intended to limit the present invention. The terms such as "first" and "second" in the specification and the claims of the present invention as well as in the above-mentioned accompanying drawings are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order. The singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are also intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly states otherwise. The terms "include" and any variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. In addition, the present invention may be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the implementations described herein. The purpose of providing the following specific implementations is to facilitate a clearer and more thorough understanding of the invention of the present invention, where the words indicating orientations such as up, down, left, and right are only for the positions of the structures shown in the corresponding drawings. In the description of the present invention, it may also be noted that the terms "mounting", "connecting", "connection", and "arranged on. "may be interpreted in the broad sense unless explicitly defined and limited otherwise. For example, the terms may mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection, or may mean a mechanical connection; may be a direct connection, or an indirect connection by means of an intermediate medium, or communication between interiors of two elements. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meaning of the terms mentioned above in the present invention can be construed according to specific circumstances.

Implementations for implementing the present invention are subsequently described in the specification, but the above description is for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention shall be subject to the appended claims.

The basic concepts involved in the implementations of the present invention are first briefly described below.

The term "energy storage device" refers to a device that converts its own stored chemical energy into electric energy, that is, a device that converts pre-stored energy into electric energy for external use.

The term "fuel cell" refers to a chemical device that directly converts the chemical energy of fuel into electric energy, also known as an electrochemical generator.

The term "traction battery" refers to a power source that supplies power for a tool, and mostly refers to a storage battery that supplies power for an electric vehicle, an electric train, an electric bicycle, and a golf cart.

The power consuming apparatus as illustrated in <FIG> in the implementations of the present invention includes, but is not limited to, a portable apparatus such as a Bluetooth headset, a mobile phone, a digital device and a tablet computer, and a large-scale apparatus such as an electric motorcycle, an electric vehicle, and an energy storage power station, which will not be limited in the implementations of the present invention. The energy storage device supplies electric energy for the power consuming apparatus. The energy storage device includes, but is not limited to, at least one of a traction battery, a fuel cell, a supercapacitor, etc. The traction battery includes, but is not limited to, a lithium-ion traction battery, a metal hydride nickel traction battery, a supercapacitor, etc..

It can be understood that, in order to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the energy storage device, the energy storage device is described in detail by taking a traction battery as an example. It may be noted that the energy storage device is a traction battery for illustration only, and would not be specifically limited in the present invention. For example, the product type of the energy storage device may also be set according to actual requirements. Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> shows a schematic structural diagram of an energy storage device <NUM> provided in an implementation of the present invention; <FIG> is an exploded view of the energy storage device <NUM> in <FIG> from a first perspective; and <FIG> is an exploded view of the energy storage device <NUM> in <FIG> from a second perspective. The energy storage device <NUM> includes a housing <NUM>, an end cap assembly <NUM>, an electrode assembly <NUM> and an adapter assembly <NUM>. The electrode assembly <NUM> and the adapter assembly <NUM> are arranged in the housing <NUM>, and the housing <NUM> is sealingly and fixedly connected to the end cap assembly <NUM> to realize the packaging of the electrode assembly <NUM> and the adapter assembly <NUM>. Specifically, the housing <NUM> has an opening <NUM> and a receiving cavity <NUM> in communication with the opening <NUM>. The electrode assembly <NUM> is received in the receiving cavity <NUM>. The receiving cavity <NUM> is further configured to store an electrolyte solution, so that the electrolyte solution can infiltrate the electrode assembly <NUM>. The end cap assembly <NUM> includes an end cap <NUM> and a terminal post <NUM> arranged on a cap plate, and the electrode assembly <NUM> includes a battery cell <NUM> and a tab <NUM> electrically connected to the battery cell <NUM>. The terminal post <NUM> is electrically connected to the tab <NUM> via the adapter assembly <NUM>. One or more battery cells <NUM> may be included. Illustratively, in this implementation, the electrode assembly <NUM> includes two battery cells <NUM> arranged side by side in a width direction of the energy storage device <NUM>. It may be noted that the number of battery cells <NUM> is only for illustration and does not constitute a specific limitation, and the number of battery cells <NUM> needs to be designed according to the actual product design.

In some implementations, the energy storage device <NUM> further includes a lower plastic member <NUM> connected to the end cap assembly <NUM>. Specifically, the lower plastic member <NUM> is fixedly connected to the side of the end cap <NUM> close to the housing <NUM>. The lower plastic member <NUM> is provided with a limiting groove <NUM> for positioning the adapter assembly <NUM>. The bottom of the limiting groove <NUM> is provided with a limiting boss <NUM> for abutting against the second connecting portion <NUM>, so that the adapter assembly <NUM> is evenly stressed during assembling, is positioned reliably, and has improved assembly efficiency and accuracy.

It may be noted that the purpose of <FIG> is only to schematically describe the arrangement of the housing <NUM>, the end cap assembly <NUM>, the electrode assembly <NUM>, the adapter assembly <NUM> and the lower plastic member <NUM>, and is not intended to specifically limit the connection position, connection relationship and specific structure of each element. <FIG> shows only a schematic structure of an energy storage device <NUM> according to an implementation of the present invention, and does not constitute a specific limitation on the energy storage device <NUM>. In some further implementations of the present invention, the energy storage device <NUM> may include more or fewer components than those shown in <FIG>, or a combination of some components, or different components. For example, the energy storage device <NUM> may further include, but not limited to, a temperature sensor, a battery management system, a connecting harnesses, etc..

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, <FIG> is an exploded view of the adapter assembly <NUM> of the energy storage device <NUM> in <FIG> from a first perspective; and <FIG> is an exploded view of the adapter assembly <NUM> of the energy storage device <NUM> in <FIG> from a second perspective. The adapter assembly <NUM> includes an adapter <NUM> and a limiting member <NUM>. The adapter <NUM> includes a first connecting portion <NUM>, a second connecting portion <NUM>, and a bendable connecting portion <NUM> connected between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>. The first connecting portion <NUM> is arranged opposite the second connecting portion <NUM>. The limiting member <NUM> is located between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> foldable with respect to each other, and is configured to be insulated from the adapter <NUM>. The limiting member <NUM> has a limiting face <NUM> configured to abut against the bendable connecting portion <NUM>. The bendable connecting portion <NUM> is configured to rotate and bend around the limiting face <NUM>.

It can be understood that, illustratively, in this implementation, the adapter <NUM> may be a positive electrode adapter. The positive electrode adapter is an aluminum foil or an aluminum alloy foil. Since the material of the aluminum foil or the aluminum alloy foil is relatively soft, the positive electrode adapter is prone to breakage after excessive bending. In some implementations, the adapter <NUM> may also be a negative electrode adapter. The negative electrode adapter is a copper foil or a copper alloy foil, and the copper foil or the copper alloy foil is also prone to breakage after excessive bending. Therefore, the adapter assembly <NUM> provided in the present invention is based on adding a limiting member <NUM> between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>. Firstly, the limiting member <NUM> can buffer the bendable connecting portion <NUM>, so that the limiting member <NUM> can absorb and disperse the stress of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> during bending, so as to improve the structural stress strength of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> during the bending, and the problem of breakage of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> due to excessive stress can thus be effectively avoided, thereby prolonging the service life of the bendable connecting portion <NUM>. Secondly, the bendable connecting portion <NUM> is configured to rotate and bend around the limiting face <NUM>, so that the limiting face <NUM> functions to guide the bending of the bendable connecting portion <NUM>, and to support the bendable connecting portion <NUM> during bending, and the adapter <NUM> is thus easier to bend. Thirdly, since the limiting member <NUM> is configured to be insulated from the adapter <NUM>, the problem of short circuit caused by overlapping joint between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> can be avoided. Fourthly, the adapter <NUM> is configured to be foldable, so that the space can be saved.

For a clearer description, an X-axis direction is defined as a length direction of the energy storage device <NUM>, a Y-axis direction is defined as a width direction of the energy storage device <NUM>, and a Z-axis direction is defined as a height direction of the energy storage device <NUM>. A length direction of the adapter assembly <NUM> and a length direction of the adapter <NUM> are directions parallel to the length direction of the energy storage device <NUM>, a width direction of the adapter assembly <NUM> and a width direction of the adapter <NUM> are directions parallel to the width direction of the energy storage device <NUM>, and a height direction of the adapter assembly <NUM> (i.e. a thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM>) and a height direction of the adapter <NUM> are directions parallel to the height direction of the energy storage device <NUM>. Illustratively, the arrow direction of the Z-axis direction is upward, and the direction opposite to the arrow direction of the Z-axis direction is downward.

Specifically, the first connecting portion <NUM> of the adapter assembly <NUM> is electrically connected to the terminal post <NUM>, and the second connecting portion <NUM> of the adapter assembly <NUM> is electrically connected to the tab <NUM>, thereby ensuring the connection area between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the terminal post <NUM> and the connection area between the second connecting portion <NUM> and the tab <NUM>, increasing the connection strength between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the terminal post <NUM> and the connection strength between the second connecting portion <NUM> and the tab <NUM>, and preventing the separation of the first connecting portion <NUM> from the terminal post <NUM> and the separation of the second connecting portion <NUM> from the tab <NUM> during the use of the energy storage device <NUM>. Optionally, in some implementations, the limiting face <NUM> is an arc-shaped face, so as to avoid the risk of scratching or hitting the adapter <NUM> due to the irregular limiting face <NUM>; or to avoid the difficult mounting problem caused by the irregular limiting face <NUM>, thereby further realizing the protection of the bendable connecting portion <NUM>. In some other implementations, the shape of the limiting face <NUM> may also be, but not limited to, wave-shaped, polygonal, etc., which will not be specifically limited in the present invention.

Illustratively, in this implementation, the limiting member <NUM> includes a limiting body <NUM> and a movable rotary cover <NUM> rotatably connected to the limiting body <NUM>, the limiting body <NUM> is configured to abut against the first connecting portion <NUM>, and the movable rotary cover <NUM> is configured to abut against the second connecting portion <NUM>. The bending range of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> is limited by the bending range of the movable rotary cover <NUM> relative to the limiting body <NUM>, so as to avoid the breakage of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> during the bending, and to ensure that the adapter <NUM> is easy to bend. Moreover, the movable rotary cover <NUM> is rotatably connected to the limiting body <NUM>, so as to avoid the recessed deformation of a surface of the limiting member <NUM> under pressure, so that the limiting member <NUM> has a good pressure resistance capacity, thereby improving the buffering effect of the limiting member <NUM> on the bendable connecting portion <NUM>.

Optionally, in some implementations, the first connecting portion <NUM>, the limiting body <NUM>, the movable rotary cover <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> are stacked in sequence in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM>, so that the overall structure of the adapter assembly <NUM> is more compact, achieving beneficial effects such as saving space, and facilitating the mounting and dismounting of the limiting member <NUM>.

In this implementation, the limiting body <NUM> is integrally formed with the movable rotary cover <NUM>. The limiting member <NUM> is configured as a bendable structure. For example, the limiting member <NUM> is configured as an elastic piece that can be bent and unfolded. In this way, the connection strength between the limiting body <NUM> and the movable rotary cover <NUM> is increased, the assembly efficiency between the limiting member <NUM> and the adapter <NUM> is improved, and the processing and production process of the limiting member <NUM> is facilitated. Moreover, the movable rotary cover <NUM> can weaken the squeezing force of the limiting member <NUM> from the bendable connecting portion <NUM>, so as to avoid the recessed deformation of a surface of the limiting member <NUM> under pressure, so that the limiting member <NUM> has a good pressure resistance capacity, thereby improving the buffering effect of the limiting member <NUM> on the bendable connecting portion <NUM>. In some implementations, the limiting body <NUM> and the movable rotary cover <NUM> may also be rotatably connected together via a rotating shaft, a hinge, etc., which will not be specifically limited in the present invention.

The first connecting portion <NUM> includes a first welding area <NUM>. The terminal post <NUM> arranged on the end cap <NUM> is mainly assembled to the first welding area <NUM> of the first connecting portion <NUM> by welding or riveting. Welding includes, but is not limited to, resistance spot welding, ultrasonic welding, laser welding and other processes. Illustratively, in this implementation, the first connecting portion <NUM> is assembled to the terminal post <NUM> by using a laser welding process. It may be noted that the resistance spot welding, laser welding process and ultrasonic welding process are widely used in the art, and will not be described in detail here. It can be understood that it is likely to generate welding slag during the welding of the adapter <NUM>, and metal chips at the first welding area <NUM> are likely to fall off from the first connecting portion <NUM> during movement. When the metal chips fall inside the energy storage device <NUM>, it is likely to cause a short circuit inside the energy storage device <NUM>, affecting the performance and safety of the energy storage device <NUM>.

Optionally, in some implementations, the limiting body <NUM> defines a window <NUM> for exposing the first welding area <NUM>. The adapter assembly <NUM> further includes a first insulating film <NUM>. The first insulating film <NUM> is arranged at the window <NUM> and shields the window <NUM>. In this way, the first insulating film <NUM> can prevent the risk of a short circuit caused by the metal chips such as welding slag and rusty slag at the first connecting portion <NUM> falling into the energy storage device <NUM>, facilitating the improvement of the yield and safety of the energy storage device <NUM>. Moreover, the first insulating film <NUM> can further avoid the problem of short circuit caused by contact between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> is a partial exploded view of the adapter assembly <NUM> of the energy storage device <NUM> in <FIG>. In this implementation, the window <NUM> has a square shape, that is, edge portions of the limiting body <NUM> for abutting against the first insulating film <NUM> are formed around the window <NUM>, increasing the contact area between the limiting body <NUM> and the first insulating film <NUM>, that is, increasing the frictional force between the limiting body <NUM> and the first insulating film <NUM>, thereby reducing the risk of the first insulating film <NUM> falling off or displacing, and achieving a high use safety and prolonged service life. Side walls of the window <NUM> and the first insulating film <NUM> enclose a storage tank <NUM>. The storage tank <NUM> is configured to store the metal chips such as welding slag and rusty slag, so as to avoid scratching the second connecting portion <NUM> during the movement, and to ensure that the metal chips such as welding slag and rusty slag would not overflow from the first insulating film <NUM>. Such a design saves the use cost for a user, the energy storage device <NUM> has a high specific energy, the structure of the energy storage device <NUM> is compact, and the mounting space is saved.

In some implementations, the window <NUM> may also be C-shaped, U-shaped, etc. The shape of the window <NUM> may be designed according to the shape of the first welding area <NUM>, which will not be specifically limited in the present invention. Optionally, in some implementations, the limiting body <NUM> of the limiting member <NUM>, the edges and corners of the movable rotary cover <NUM> and the corners of the window <NUM> are rounded, so as to prevent the limiting member <NUM> from damaging the first insulating film <NUM>.

Illustratively, in an implementation, the length of the first insulating film <NUM> is greater than that of the first welding area <NUM>, and the width of the first insulating film <NUM> is greater than that of the first welding area <NUM>, so as to ensure that the first insulating film <NUM> can block the slag such as welding slag and rusty debris at the first welding area <NUM>. Specifically, the first connecting portion <NUM> further includes a first non-welding area <NUM> arranged around the outside of the first welding area <NUM>. Optionally, the first insulating film <NUM> covers the first welding area <NUM> and the first non-welding area <NUM>, so as to better realize the insulation protection between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>, and ensure that the first insulating film <NUM> can still shield the first welding area <NUM> after being displaced by a predetermined distance, to block the slag such as welding slag and rusty debris, improving the safety performance of the energy storage device <NUM>. The length of the first insulating film <NUM> is equal to that of the first welding area <NUM>, and/or the width of the first insulating film <NUM> is equal to that of the first welding area <NUM>, thereby saving the production cost.

Illustratively, the material of the first insulating film <NUM> includes, but is not limited to, one or a combination of polypropylene (PP), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polystyrene (PS), cast polypropylene film (CPP), polyethylene naphthalate two formicacid glycol ester (PEN), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK), polyethersulfone resin (PES), polyphenylene sulfone resins (PPSM), and polyethylene (PE). In some implementations, the first insulating film <NUM> is a PET film. The PET film is a glossy plastic film with high-quality physical properties, high rigidity, strength and ductility, and excellent puncture resistance, abrasion resistance, heat resistance and ultra-low temperature resistance, chemical resistance, wear resistance, sealing and fragrance retention. Of course, the first insulating film <NUM> may instead be made of other materials such as PPS, PE and PVC according to actual requirements.

In this implementation, the number of first insulating films <NUM> may be selected to a single layer or multiple layers. As an example, the multiple layers of first insulating films <NUM> of multiple layers are, for example, two layers, three layers, four layers or more. It may be noted that the number of first insulating films <NUM> is only for illustration and does not constitute a specific limitation. Illustratively, the first insulating film <NUM> has a thickness of <NUM>-<NUM>. The thickness of the first insulating film <NUM> needs to be determined according to the actual product design. If the first insulating film <NUM> is too thin, it may be easily damaged, but if the first insulating film <NUM> is too thick, it will increase the weight of the energy storage device <NUM> and reduce the energy density of the energy storage device <NUM>.

The first insulating film <NUM> is clamped between the limiting body <NUM> and the movable rotary cover <NUM>, thereby reducing the displacement or detachment of the first insulating film <NUM> during the movement of the energy storage device <NUM>, and improving the assembly efficiency of the first insulating film <NUM>. Optionally, in some implementations, the limiting body <NUM> is fixed to the first connecting portion <NUM> via the first insulating film <NUM>. Specifically, the first insulating film <NUM> has viscosity, that is, the limiting body <NUM> is bonded to the first connecting portion <NUM> via the first insulating film <NUM>, such that the limiting body <NUM> is clamped between the first insulating film <NUM> and the first connecting portion <NUM>. In this way, the connection strength between the first insulating film <NUM> and the first connecting portion <NUM> is increased to further reduce the displacement or detachment of the first insulating film <NUM> during the movement of the energy storage device <NUM>. Moreover, the position of the limiting member <NUM> is defined, so as to ensure that the bendable connecting portion <NUM> can be rotated and bent around the limiting face <NUM> of the limiting member <NUM>, and to improve the assembly efficiency of the limiting body <NUM>.

In some implementations, the first insulating film <NUM> is provided at the first welding area <NUM> to carry out insulation protection on the first welding area <NUM> of the first connecting portion <NUM>, and avoid product explosion and other safety accidents caused by a potential hazard of internal short circuit in the energy storage device <NUM> during the manufacturing and movement. The first insulating film <NUM> is attached to the first non-welding area <NUM> of the first connecting portion <NUM>. In some other implementations, the first insulating film <NUM> is attached to the first welding area <NUM> of the first connecting portion <NUM>. Alternatively, the first insulating film <NUM> is attached to the first welding area <NUM> and the first non-welding area <NUM> of the first connecting portion <NUM>. Optionally, the first insulating film <NUM> may also be attached to a side face of the limiting body <NUM> that is close to the movable rotary cover <NUM>, so as to further enhance the connection strength between the first insulating film <NUM> and the limiting member <NUM> and between the first insulating film and the first connecting portion <NUM>, to reduce the displacement or detachment of the first insulating film <NUM> during the movement of the energy storage device <NUM>. In some other implementations, the first insulating film <NUM> may not have viscosity, that is, the first insulating film <NUM> is clamped between the limiting body <NUM> and the movable rotary cover <NUM>, thereby simplifying the assembly efficiency and saving costs.

In some implementations, the limiting body <NUM> is fixed to the first connecting portion <NUM>, so as to further increase the connection strength between the limiting member <NUM> and the adapter <NUM>, to better fix the relative position of the limiting member <NUM>, thereby avoiding the displacement of the limiting member <NUM> and the resulting abnormal bending of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> and displacement or detachment of the first insulating film <NUM>. Illustratively, in this implementation, the limiting body <NUM> and the first connecting portion <NUM> may be fixedly connected together by means of adhesive bonding, that is, an adhesive layer is provided between the limiting body <NUM> and the first connecting portion <NUM>, so that the adhesive layer can be further used for buffering the stress of the bendable connecting portion <NUM>, improving the bending efficiency and success rate, and simplifying the overall structure of the adapter assembly <NUM>. In some other implementations, the limiting body <NUM> and the first connecting portion <NUM> may also be fixedly connected together by, but not limited to, thermal fusion, binding, mechanical connection, laser welding, ultrasonic welding, etc..

It can be understood that, illustratively, in this implementation, the movable rotary cover <NUM> is arranged movably relative to the second connecting portion <NUM>, so as to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the limiting member <NUM>. In some other implementations, the movable rotary cover <NUM> may also be fixed to the second connecting portion <NUM>. Alternatively, the limiting body <NUM> may be arranged movably relative to the first connecting portion <NUM>. Optionally, at least one of the movable rotary cover <NUM> and the limiting body <NUM> is arranged fixedly relative to the adapter <NUM>, so as to avoid the problem of affecting the bending of the adapter <NUM> due to the displacement of the limiting member <NUM>.

Illustratively, in this implementation, the adapter assembly <NUM> further includes a second insulating film <NUM>, with the second insulating film <NUM> being clamped between the first insulating film <NUM> and the movable rotary cover <NUM>. In this way, the second insulating film <NUM> can prevent the risk of a short circuit caused by the metal chips such as welding slag and rusty slag at the second connecting portion <NUM> falling into the energy storage device <NUM>, facilitating the improvement of the yield and safety of the energy storage device <NUM>. Moreover, the second insulating film <NUM> can further avoid the problem of short circuit caused by contact between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>.

Optionally, the second connecting portion <NUM> includes a second welding area <NUM>. The movable rotary cover <NUM> defines a notch <NUM> at a position corresponding to the second welding area <NUM> to expose the second insulating film <NUM>. In this way, the second insulating film <NUM> can cover the entire second welding area <NUM>, further avoiding the risk of a short circuit caused by the metal chips such as welding slag and rusty slag at the second connecting portion <NUM> falling into the energy storage device <NUM>, and improving the yield and safety of the energy storage device <NUM>. The notch <NUM> is defined at the end of the movable rotary cover <NUM> facing away from the limiting body <NUM>, so as to ensure the connection strength between the movable rotary cover <NUM> and the limiting body <NUM> and prevent the movable rotary cover <NUM> from breaking during rotating.

The second connecting portion <NUM> further includes a second non-welding area <NUM> arranged around the outside of the second welding area <NUM>. Optionally, the second insulating film <NUM> covers the second welding area <NUM> and the second non-welding area <NUM>, so as to better realize the insulation protection between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>, and ensure that the second insulating film <NUM> can still shield the second welding area <NUM> after being displaced by a predetermined distance, to block the slag such as welding slag and rusty debris, improving the safety performance of the energy storage device <NUM>. The length of the second insulating film <NUM> is equal to that of the second welding area <NUM>, and/or the width of the second insulating film <NUM> is equal to that of the second welding area <NUM>, thereby saving the production cost. In some implementations, the second insulating film <NUM> may also only cover the second welding area <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the second insulating film <NUM> of the adapter assembly <NUM> in <FIG> along line A-A. In some implementations, the second insulating film <NUM> includes a first film body <NUM> attached to a first insulating film <NUM> and a second film body <NUM> foldable with respect to and connected to the first film body <NUM>, with the second film body <NUM> facing the second connecting portion <NUM>, so as to better fix the relative positions of the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM>.

Optionally, the first film body <NUM> may be fixed to the first insulating film <NUM> by means of bonding. The second film body <NUM> may also be fixed to the movable rotary cover <NUM> and/or the second connecting portion <NUM> by means of bonding, so as to further avoid displacement of the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM>. In some further implementations, the second insulating film <NUM> may also be configured as a single-layer film. In some other implementations, the second insulating film <NUM> may be omitted, the first insulating film <NUM> covers both the second welding area <NUM> and the first welding area <NUM>, and the first insulating film <NUM> is configured as a double-layer film, with one layer of insulating film covering the first welding area <NUM>, and the other layer of insulating film covering the second welding area <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, <FIG> is an enlarged view of the limiting member <NUM> of the adapter assembly <NUM> in <FIG>; and <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the limiting member <NUM> of the adapter assembly <NUM> in <FIG> along line B-B. In some implementations, the limiting member <NUM> has a thickness H of <NUM>-<NUM> in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM>, that is, the overall thickness of the limiting member <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>. In this way, stress fatigue or even breakage of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> of the adapter <NUM> is avoided during the bending, and the reliability of use of the adapter <NUM> is improved. Moreover, the space occupied by the limiting member <NUM> is reduced in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM>, effectively reducing the thickness of the adapter assembly <NUM>, and further adapting to the market demand for the miniaturization of the adapter assembly <NUM>.

It can be understood that the radius of curvature of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> increases as the thickness H of the limiting member <NUM> in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM> increases. If the thickness H of the limiting member <NUM> in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM> is too small, the radius of curvature of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> is small, leading to the problem of breakage of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> during the bending. If the thickness H of the limiting member <NUM> in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM> is too large, the radius of curvature of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> is large, increasing the weight of the energy storage device <NUM>, increasing the occupation of the internal space of the energy storage device <NUM> by the limiting member <NUM>, and reducing the energy density of the energy storage device <NUM>. Optionally, the thickness H of the limiting member <NUM> in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM> is <NUM>, so as to better balance the overall thickness of the limiting member <NUM> and the radius of curvature of the bendable connecting portion <NUM>. For example, in some implementations, the thickness H of the limiting member <NUM> in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM> is <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and so on. It may be noted that the dimension of the thickness H of the limiting member <NUM> is only for illustration and does not constitute a specific limitation, and the thickness H of the limiting member <NUM> needs to be designed according to the actual product design.

A ratio of a length C1 of the window <NUM> to a length C2 of the limiting body <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>, so as to prevent the limiting member <NUM> from being misaligned with the first connecting portion <NUM> due to the displacement caused by vibration during transportation of the energy storage device <NUM>, thereby effectively blocking the welding slag of the first connecting portion <NUM> and improving the safety of the energy storage device <NUM>. The ratio of the length C1 of the window <NUM> to the length C2 of the limiting body <NUM> is <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and so on. Illustratively, in this implementation, the length C1 of the window <NUM> is <NUM>, the length C2 of the limiting body <NUM> is <NUM>, and the ratio of the length C1 of the window <NUM> to the length C2 of the limiting body <NUM> is <NUM>. It may be noted that the dimensions of the length C1 of the window <NUM> and the length C2 of the limiting body <NUM> are only for illustration and do not constitute a specific limitation, and the length C1 of the window <NUM> and the length C2 of the limiting body <NUM> need to be designed according to the actual product design.

Illustratively, in this implementation, the movable rotary cover <NUM> may have an L-shaped structure as a whole. Specifically, the movable rotary cover <NUM> includes a fixing portion <NUM> connected to the limiting body <NUM>, and an extension portion <NUM> connected to the side of the fixing portion <NUM> facing away from the limiting body <NUM>. A length C3 of the fixing portion <NUM> is equal to or greater than a length C4 of the extension portion <NUM>, so as to ensure the connection strength between the fixing portion <NUM> and the limiting body <NUM>. In some implementations, the movable rotary cover <NUM> may also have a C-shaped structure or a U-shaped structure as a whole, so as to further increase the retaining area between the movable rotary cover <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM>, thereby reducing the displacement or detachment of the first insulating film <NUM> during the movement of the energy storage device <NUM>. In some implementations, the corners of the notch <NUM> are rounded, so as to prevent the limiting member <NUM> from damaging the second insulating film <NUM>.

It can be understood that in order to take into account the connection strength between the fixing portion <NUM> and the extension portion <NUM> and the connection strength between the fixing portion and the limiting body <NUM>, the retaining force of the limiting member <NUM> and the exposed area of the second insulating film <NUM> at the notch <NUM>, the fixing portion <NUM> has a width W1 of approximately <NUM>-<NUM>, and the extension portion <NUM> has a width W2 of <NUM>-<NUM>. For example, in some implementations, the width W1 of the fixing portion <NUM> is <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and so on, and the width W2 of the extension portion <NUM> is <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and so on. It may be noted that the dimensions of the width W1 of the fixing portion <NUM> and the width W2 of the extension portion <NUM> are only for illustration and do not constitute a specific limitation, and the width W1 of the fixing portion <NUM> and the width W2 of the extension portion <NUM> need to be designed according to the actual product design.

It may be noted that the material of the first insulating film <NUM> is applicable to the material of the second insulating film <NUM>, and reference is made to the description of the above implementations for specific details, which will not be repeated here. The material of the second insulating film <NUM> may be different from that of the first insulating film <NUM>; or may be the same as that of the first insulating film <NUM>. Optionally, the color of the first insulating film <NUM> is different from the color of the second insulating film <NUM>, so as to facilitate identification, improving the assembly efficiency and accuracy, and facilitating the determination of whether the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM> are missing, displaced, detached, etc. during machine inspection or manual inspection. Illustratively, in this implementation, the first insulating film <NUM> is a blue insulating film, and the second insulating film <NUM> is a green insulating film. In some implementations, the colors of the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM> may also be the same. Alternatively, the colors of the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM> are other colors, which will not be specifically limited in the present invention.

Optionally, in some implementations, at least one of the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> is provided with an anchor member for anchoring the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM>, thereby further avoiding the displacement or detachment of the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM>. For example, the anchor member may be configured as a hook structure or a protrusion structure provided on the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>, and the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM> are each provided with a snap hole for cooperating with the hook structure or the protrusion structure.

An orthographic projection of the notch <NUM> on the first insulating film <NUM> is spaced apart from an orthographic projection of the window <NUM> on the first insulating film <NUM>, that is, the extension portion <NUM> of the movable rotary cover <NUM> and the limiting body <NUM> stop against each other. In this way, the risk of a short circuit caused by contact between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> is avoided. Moreover; the risk of a short circuit caused by the contact between the slag such as welding slag and rusty debris and the first connecting portion <NUM> or the second connecting portion <NUM> through the window <NUM> and the notch <NUM> is avoided. Furthermore, the occurrence of displacement caused by the movable rotary cover <NUM> pushing the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM> is avoided.

The limiting member <NUM> is arranged at a position corresponding to the bendable connecting portion <NUM>, so as to ensure that the bendable connecting portion <NUM> can be bent smoothly, improving the mass production yield of the product. Optionally, the limiting member <NUM> is configured to abut against the bendable connecting portion <NUM>, so as to ensure that the bendable connecting portion <NUM> can be rotated and bent around the limiting member <NUM>. In some implementations, the limiting member <NUM> is spaced apart from the bendable connecting portion <NUM> by a predetermined distance, so as to provide a space for the deformation of the bendable connecting portion <NUM>. The predetermined distance is approximately <NUM>-<NUM>, so as to ensure that the bendable connecting portion <NUM> can be rotated and bent around the limiting member <NUM>.

In some implementations, the limiting member <NUM> is arranged in an area where the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> overlap, so as to ensure that the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> can drive the limiting member <NUM> to press the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM>, thereby avoiding the problem of displacement of the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM>.

Illustratively, in this implementation, the limiting member <NUM> is of a plastic structure. The plastic structure is, for example, but not limited to, PET sheet, PE sheet, PS sheet and other sheets. In this way, the insulating effect of the limiting member <NUM> is realized. Moreover, the buffering effect of the limiting member <NUM> is improved. Furthermore, the production cost is reduced. In addition, the frictional force between the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM> is increased, avoiding the displacement of the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM>. In some implementations, the limiting member <NUM> may also be of other structures having an insulating effect, such as, but not limited to, asbestos or mica.

Optionally, the limiting member <NUM> is configured as a sheet-like structure, so as to facilitate the rotating and folding of the movable rotary cover <NUM> with respect to the limiting body <NUM>, and reduce the space occupied by the limiting member <NUM> in the adapter assembly <NUM>, thereby saving the production cost. Moreover, it is ensured that the movable rotary cover <NUM> has a flat surface after being folded with respect to the limiting body <NUM>, so as to better press the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM>.

In this implementation, the bendable connecting portion <NUM> defines a through hole <NUM> to form, on two opposite sides of the through hole <NUM>, a first fuse portion <NUM> and a second fuse portion <NUM> connected to the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>, and the limiting member <NUM> shields at least a part of the through hole <NUM>. In this way, firstly, when the energy storage device <NUM> is out of control, the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> are fused, so that an open circuit state is formed between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>, and there is no voltage output, protecting the energy storage device <NUM> and preventing explosion and fire; and the limiting member <NUM> can increase the insulation of the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> on two sides of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM>, thereby further increasing the arc extinguishing effect. Secondly, it is ensured that after the displacement of the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM>, the limiting member <NUM> can still isolate the first connecting portion <NUM> from the second connecting portion <NUM> to prevent a contact short circuit. Thirdly, after the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> are fused, the arrangement of the limiting member <NUM> can avoid the problem of short circuit caused by a further overlapping joint between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>. Fourthly, the problem of potential safety hazard caused by the metal chips entering the interior of the energy storage device <NUM> through the through hole <NUM> is avoided.

In this implementation, the through hole <NUM> is a right-angled quadrilateral hole, such as a square hole or a rectangular hole. Optionally, illustratively, in this implementation, the rectangular hole is a rectangular hole with an ellipse. In some other implementations, the through hole <NUM> may also be a diamond hole, a rectangular hole, a polygonal hole, an elliptic hole, a waist hole, a circular hole, etc., which will not be specifically limited in the present invention.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> is a schematic view of the adapter <NUM> of the adapter assembly <NUM> in <FIG> in an unfolded state. When the adapter <NUM> is in the unfolded state, the through hole <NUM> has a first linear section <NUM>, a first corner section <NUM>, a second corner section <NUM> and a second linear section <NUM>. The first linear section <NUM> is connected to the first corner section <NUM> and adjacent to the first fuse portion <NUM>, the second linear section <NUM> is connected to the second corner section <NUM> and adjacent to the second fuse portion <NUM>, and the first corner section <NUM> and the second corner section <NUM> are rounded, so as to avoid the problem of damage to the tab <NUM> caused by the adapter <NUM>. In some implementations, the edges and corners of the first connecting portion <NUM>, the second connecting portion <NUM> and the bendable connecting portion <NUM> are all rounded, so as to further avoid the problem of damage to the tab <NUM> caused by the adapter <NUM>.

It may be noted that, for the convenience of describing the technical solution of the present invention, referring to <FIG>, the unfolded state of the adapter <NUM> refers to a state in which the bendable connecting portion <NUM> of the adapter <NUM> is not bent. In this case, the first connecting portion <NUM>, the second connecting portion <NUM> and the bendable connecting portion <NUM> are arranged coplanarly. The unfolded state of the adapter <NUM> is only for describing the accuracy of the through hole <NUM>, and is not the product use state of the energy storage device <NUM>. In the use state, the bendable connecting portion <NUM> of the adapter <NUM> is bent, and the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> are arranged opposite each other.

The distance between the first linear section <NUM> and the end of the first fuse portion <NUM> away from the first linear section <NUM> is a first distance D1, and the distance between the end of the first corner section <NUM> away from the first linear section <NUM> and the end of the first fuse portion <NUM> away from the first corner section <NUM> is a second distance D2, where the first distance D1 is less than the second distance D2. The distance between the second linear section <NUM> and the end of the second fuse portion <NUM> away from the second linear section <NUM> is a third distance D3, and the distance between the end of the second comer section <NUM> away from the second linear section <NUM> and the end of the second fuse portion <NUM> away from the second corner section <NUM> is a fourth distance D4, where the third distance D3 is less than the fourth distance D4.

According to the adapter assembly <NUM> provided in the implementations of the present invention, firstly, since the bendable connecting portion <NUM> is provided with the through hole <NUM>, huge current generated by the energy storage device <NUM> when it is out of control can act on the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM>, so as to fuse the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> to disconnect the circuit, improving the use safety and prolonging the service life. Secondly, the first corner section <NUM> and the second corner section <NUM> of the through hole <NUM> are both rounded, so as to prevent the adapter <NUM> from scratching the tab <NUM>, improving the production yield. Thirdly, by setting the distance between the first linear section <NUM> and the end of the first fuse portion <NUM> away from the first linear section <NUM> to be less than the distance between the end of the first corner section <NUM> away from the first linear section <NUM> and the end of the first fuse portion <NUM> away from the first corner section <NUM>; and the distance between the second linear section <NUM> and the end of the second fuse portion <NUM> away from the second linear section <NUM> to be less than the distance between the end of the second corner section <NUM> away from the second linear section <NUM> and the end of the second fuse portion <NUM> away from the second corner section <NUM>, the fusing position of the adapter <NUM> is closer to a mechanical fatigue area of the bendable connecting portion <NUM>, and the fusing effect is thus easier to form, improving the safety of the energy storage device <NUM>.

Optionally, a fusing direction F11 of the first fuse portion <NUM> and a fusing direction F12 of the second fuse portion <NUM> are perpendicular to a bending direction F2 of the bendable connecting portion <NUM>, so as to ensure that the fusing of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> is easier to form and to facilitate the bending of the adapter <NUM>. It may be noted that the fusing direction F11 of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the fusing direction F12 of the second fuse portion <NUM> refer to the direction perpendicular to the current direction of the adapter <NUM>, the fusing direction F11 of the first fuse portion <NUM> refers to the direction from the first linear section <NUM> to the end of the first fuse portion <NUM> away from the first linear section <NUM>, and the fusing direction F12 of the second fuse portion <NUM> refers to the direction from the second linear section <NUM> to the end of the second fuse portion <NUM> away from the second linear section <NUM>. The current direction of the adapter <NUM> is parallel to the bending direction F2 of the bendable connecting portion <NUM>.

The ratio of the first distance D1 to the second distance D2 is <NUM>-<NUM>, and the ratio of the third distance D3 to the fourth distance D4 is <NUM>-<NUM>, so as to ensure the fusing reliability of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM>, while ensuring that the adapter <NUM> has the characteristics of high strength and not easy to break. For example, the ratio of the first distance D1 to the second distance D2 and the ratio of the third distance D3 to the fourth distance D4 are <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>, and so on. Illustratively, in this implementation, the first distance D1 is <NUM>, the second distance D2 is <NUM>, and the ratio of the first distance D1 to the second distance D2 is <NUM>.

Two first corner sections <NUM> and two second corner sections <NUM> are included, the two first corner sections <NUM> are connected to two opposite ends of the first linear section <NUM>, and the two second corner sections <NUM> are connected to two opposite ends of the second linear section <NUM>. The through hole <NUM> further includes a third linear section <NUM> and a fourth linear section <NUM> each connected to the first corner section <NUM> and the second corner section <NUM>, and the first linear section <NUM>, the two first corner sections <NUM>, the two second corner sections <NUM>, the second linear section <NUM>, the third linear section <NUM> and the fourth linear section <NUM> enclose the through hole <NUM>. Therefore, a punching die made for such a manufacturing has a simple structure, and it is easier to open and close the die. At the same time, the bending length required for the bending position of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> is reduced by means of the through hole <NUM>, which is more conducive to bending and forming.

The lengths of the first linear section <NUM> and the second linear section <NUM> are equal and are the first length L1, the distance between the third linear section <NUM> and the fourth linear section <NUM> is a fifth distance D5, and the ratio of the first length L1 to the fifth distance D5 is <NUM>/<NUM>-<NUM>/<NUM>, so as to ensure that the bendable mechanical fatigue zone of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> is highly coincident with the positions formed by the fusing of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM>, and then the fusing of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> occurs more easily. For example, the ratio of the first length L1 to the fifth distance D5 may be, but not limited to, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>, and so on.

In some implementations, the lengths of the third linear section <NUM> and the fourth linear section <NUM> are equal and are the second length L2, the distance between the first linear section <NUM> and the second linear section <NUM> is a sixth distance D6, and the ratio of the second length L2 to the sixth distance D6 is <NUM>-<NUM>, so as to ensure the fusing reliability of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM>, while ensuring that the adapter <NUM> has the characteristics of high strength and not easy to break. For example, the ratio of the second length L2 to the sixth distance D6 may be, but not limited to, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>, and so on.

The radii of the rounded corners of the first corner section <NUM> and the second corner section <NUM> are both <NUM>-<NUM>, so as to avoid the problem of breakage of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> during the bending. For example, in some implementations, the radii of the rounded corners of the first corner section <NUM> and the second corner section <NUM> are <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and so on. It may be noted that the radii of the rounded corners of the first corner section <NUM> and the second corner section <NUM> are only for illustration and does not constitute a specific limitation, and the radii of the rounded corners of the first corner section <NUM> and the second corner section <NUM> need to be designed according to the actual product design.

In some implementations, the distance between the end of the first fuse portion <NUM> away from the first linear section <NUM> and the end of the second fuse portion <NUM> away from the second linear section <NUM> is a seventh distance D7, and the ratio of the sixth distance D6 to the seventh distance D7 is <NUM>-<NUM>, so as to ensure that the fusing of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> occurs more easily, while avoiding stress fatigue or even breakage of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> of the adapter <NUM> during the bending, improving the reliability of use of the adapter <NUM>. For example, the ratio of the sixth distance D6 to the seventh distance D7 may be, but not limited to, <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>, and so on. Illustratively, in this implementation, the sixth distance D6 is <NUM>, and the seventh distance D7 is <NUM>. The ratio of the sixth distance D6 to the seventh distance D7 is <NUM>.

In some implementations, the sixth distance D6 of the through hole <NUM> gradually decreases from the middle of the through hole <NUM> toward the two sides in the current direction of the adapter <NUM> (that is, the direction from the third linear section <NUM> to the fourth linear section <NUM>), so as to ensure that the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> can be fused in the middle of the through hole <NUM>, while ensuring the connection strength between two side edges of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> and the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>, further avoiding the breakage of the adapter <NUM> during the rotating and bending process.

Optionally, in this implementation, the first connecting portion <NUM>, the limiting member <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> are stacked in the thickness direction of the adapter <NUM>. In this way, the overall structure of the adapter <NUM> is made more compact and saves space. Moreover, the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> are spaced apart by the limiting member <NUM> in the thickness direction of the adapter <NUM>, so as to avoid the problem of short circuit between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>, and the limiting member <NUM> provides a buffering effect between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>, and enhances the structural strength of the bendable connecting portion <NUM>, thereby avoiding the problem of wrinkling or breakage of the bendable connecting portion <NUM> after being bent.

The first connecting portion <NUM> includes a first welding area <NUM>, and the second connecting portion <NUM> includes a second welding area <NUM>. Orthographic projections of the first welding area <NUM> and the second welding area <NUM> on the first connecting portion <NUM> are spaced apart from each other, thereby further avoiding the risk of a short circuit caused by contact between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>. In some implementations, the orthographic projections of the first welding area <NUM> and the second welding area <NUM> on the first connecting portion <NUM> are arranged adjacent to each other or at least partially overlap with each other, shortening the length of the adapter <NUM>, thereby saving the space and lightening the weight, reducing the material consumption of the conductive connecting member, and save the cost.

The bendable connecting portion <NUM> includes, but is not limited to, a C-shaped structure, a U-shaped structure, a V-shaped structure or a wave-shaped structure, so as to ensure that the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> can be bent smoothly, improving the mass production yield of the product. Illustratively, in this implementation, the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> are configured as a C-shaped structure, thereby reducing local bending of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM> and reducing bending fatigue, preventing the breakage of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM>, and reducing the space occupied by the bent first fuse portion <NUM> and second fuse portion <NUM> in the width direction of the adapter <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> is a top view of the adapter <NUM> of the adapter assembly <NUM> in <FIG>; and <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the adapter <NUM> of the adapter assembly <NUM> in <FIG> along line C-C. The adapter <NUM> is folded in half along a first half-folding axis P1 to form two layers of adapter main bodies <NUM>, and a gap <NUM> is formed between the two layers of adapter main bodies <NUM>. In this way, the breakage of the adapter <NUM> at the first half-folding axis P1 is avoided. Moreover, the gap <NUM> may be used as a passage for allowing the tab <NUM> to be inserted, and may provide a stress release space for the adapter main bodies <NUM> to bend again, so as to improve the breakage resistance of the adapter <NUM>. It can be understood that if the gap <NUM> is too large, it is not conducive to folding the two layers of adapter main body <NUM> in half; and if the gap <NUM> is too small, the adapter <NUM> is likely to break when it is bent along the first half-folding axis P1, and it is not conducive to the mounting of the tab <NUM> and it is likely to damage the tab <NUM>. Optionally, the gap <NUM> is approximately <NUM>-<NUM>, so as to ensure smooth half-folding of the two layers of adapter main bodies <NUM>, and to facilitate the mounting of the tab <NUM> and protect the tab <NUM> from damage. For example, in some implementations, the gap <NUM> is <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and so on. It may be noted that the size of the gap <NUM> is only for illustration and does not constitute a specific limitation, and the gap <NUM> needs to be designed according to the actual product design.

An arc-shaped structure <NUM> of the adapter <NUM> is formed at the first half-folding axis P1, so as to further avoid the problem of breakage of the adapter <NUM> at the first half-folding axis P1, and to facilitate the bending process and improve the assembly efficiency of the tab <NUM>. The adapter <NUM> is folded in half along the first half-folding axis P1 by <NUM> degrees, so as to ensure that surfaces of the adapter main bodies <NUM> are flat and are in the form of a stacked structure, thereby ensuring that the two layers of adapter main bodies <NUM> are easier to bend, and can absorb and disperse the stress during bending. Moreover, the adapter <NUM> is configured to be foldable, so that the space can be saved and the overall thickness of the adapter <NUM> can be increased.

The two layers of adapter main bodies <NUM> are folded in half along a second half-folding axis P2 to form the first connecting portion <NUM>, the second connecting portion <NUM> and the bendable connecting portion <NUM>. The first half-folding axis P1 is parallel to the second half-folding axis P2. In this way, firstly, the two layers of adapter main bodies <NUM> serve as a thickened anti-bending layers, which can improve the structural strength of the first fuse portion <NUM> and the second fuse portion <NUM>, and reduce the damage to a wire caused by an excessive bending angle. Secondly, problems such as abnormal bending and large space occupation caused by the intersection of the first half-folding axis P1 and the second half-folding axis P2 are avoided, facilitating the processing and reducing the production scrap rate. Thirdly, the adapter <NUM> as a whole is folded in half along the first half-folding axis P1 and then bent along the second half-folding axis P2, facilitating the bending process, realizing the standardization of the bending process and improving the processing accuracy. The two layers of adapter main bodies <NUM> are folded in half along the second half-folding axis P2 by <NUM> degrees, so as to ensure that the surfaces of the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> are flat, facilitating the respective welding to the terminal post <NUM> and the tab <NUM>, thereby improving the welding quality and saving the space.

The gap <NUM> includes an insertion space <NUM> for allowing the tab <NUM> to be inserted. The adapter main bodies <NUM> of the second connecting portion <NUM> include a first connecting plate <NUM> and a second connecting plate <NUM>, and the insertion space <NUM> is formed between the first connecting plate <NUM> and the second connecting plate <NUM>, thereby enabling the second connecting portion <NUM> to enclose the tab <NUM>, so as to prevent the tab <NUM> from being damaged and improve the stability of the tab <NUM>. After the tab <NUM> is inserted into the insertion space <NUM> formed between the first connecting plate <NUM> and the second connecting plate <NUM>, an electrical connection between the tab <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> is realized by welding, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the connection between the tab <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>.

It can be understood that punching is a stamping process that uses a punching die to separate part of a material of a workpiece from the other part of the material. The adapter <NUM> is generally formed by punching a sheet-like plate, that is, the workpiece includes a punched part to be punched out and the adapter <NUM> left after punching. The adapter <NUM> will have burrs formed at edges of the adapter <NUM> in the punching process. It may be noted that the orientation of the burrs is the same as the punching direction of the adapter <NUM>. Illustratively, in this implementation, the punching direction of the adapter <NUM> is approximately perpendicular to the extension plane in which the workpiece lies, that is, the punched section of the workpiece is perpendicular to the extension plane in which the workpiece lies. Optionally, the first connecting plate <NUM> is closer to the first connecting portion <NUM> than the second connecting plate <NUM>, the second connecting plate <NUM> is farther away from the first connecting portion <NUM> than the first connecting plate <NUM>, and the punching direction of the first connecting plate <NUM> is directed to the first connecting portion <NUM> and is opposite to that of the second connecting plate <NUM>, so as to avoid the risk of the tab <NUM> being broken due to the burrs on the punched edges scratching the tab <NUM>. Specifically, the punching direction of the first connecting plate <NUM> faces upward, and the punching direction of the second connecting plate <NUM> faces downward, so that the burrs at the edges of the first connecting plate <NUM> and the burrs at the edges of the second connecting plate <NUM> extend toward the side away from the insertion space <NUM>, thereby greatly reducing the risk of the burrs scratching the tab <NUM> and improving the production yield.

Illustratively, in this implementation, the adapter <NUM> may include one metal foil, so as to save the cost, reduce the weight, and facilitate the bending of the adapter <NUM>. In some other implementations, the adapter <NUM> may also include multiple metal foils. All the metal foils are stacked and folded in half along the first half-folding axis P1 to form two layers of adapter main bodies <NUM>. All the metal foils are integrated into an integral structure. Therefore, by configuring the adapter <NUM> as a multi-layer stacked structure, the thickness of the stacked structure is increased so as to better absorb and disperse the stress during bending, thereby avoiding the problem of breakage of the adapter <NUM> during the bending. Moreover, the integration of all the metal foils into an integral structure ensures that the tab <NUM> is not damaged, and can be smoothly inserted between the two layers of adapter main bodies <NUM>. In addition, after the innermost layer of metal foil is fused, a circuit between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> can be disconnected quickly, and the limiting member <NUM> can further prevent the outermost layer of metal foil from creeping, which is likely to lead to the problem of overlapping joint between the first connecting portion <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM>. The metal foil may be, but not limited to, an aluminum foil, a copper foil, etc. The metal foil has a thickness T of <NUM>-<NUM>, so as to enhance the overall structural strength of the adapter <NUM> and facilitate the bending process.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> is a top view of the energy storage device <NUM> in <FIG>; <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the energy storage device in <FIG> along line D-D; and <FIG> is an enlarged view of part I of the energy storage device in <FIG>. After the first connecting portion <NUM> is rotated and folded with respect to the second connecting portion <NUM>, the first connecting portion <NUM>, the limiting body <NUM>, the first insulating film <NUM>, the second insulating film <NUM>, the movable rotary cover <NUM> and the second connecting portion <NUM> are stacked in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM>, so as to effectively reduce the thickness of the adapter <NUM> and further meet the market demand for the miniaturization of the adapter <NUM>.

The rotating and folding of the first connecting portion <NUM> with respect to the second connecting portion <NUM> can drive the movable rotary cover <NUM> to rotate and bend relative to the limiting body <NUM>, such that the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM> are pressed between the limiting body <NUM> and the movable rotary cover <NUM>. The displacement of the first insulating film <NUM> and the second insulating film <NUM> is avoided. Moreover, after the movable rotary cover <NUM> is rotated and bent relative to the limiting body <NUM>, the thickness of the limiting member <NUM> in the thickness direction of the adapter assembly <NUM> is increased to better absorb and disperse the stress during bending, so as to avoid the problem of breakage of the adapter <NUM> during the bending.

The tab <NUM> extends into the limiting groove <NUM> of the lower plastic member <NUM>, and is received in the insertion space <NUM> formed between the first connecting plate <NUM> and the second connecting plate <NUM>, thereby enabling the tab <NUM> to be clamped by the first connecting plate <NUM> and the second connecting plate <NUM>. Specifically, the tab <NUM> includes a first connecting section <NUM> connected to the battery cell <NUM>, a second connecting section <NUM> connected to the second connecting portion <NUM>, and a third connecting section <NUM> connected to the first connecting section <NUM> and the second connecting section <NUM>. The first connecting section <NUM> and the second connecting section <NUM> are spaced apart from each other, and are both bent in the same direction relative to the third connecting section <NUM>, so that the degree of bending of the tab <NUM> can be improved, and the internal space of the energy storage device <NUM> can be effectively saved. At the same time, the tab <NUM> is prevented from coming into contact with the adapter <NUM> during bending, thereby preventing a short circuit in the energy storage device <NUM> and increasing the energy density of the energy storage device <NUM>.

Claim 1:
An adapter assembly (<NUM>), comprising:
an adapter (<NUM>), comprising a first connecting portion (<NUM>), a second connecting portion (<NUM>), and a bendable connecting portion (<NUM>) connected between the first connecting portion (<NUM>) and the second connecting portion (<NUM>), the first connecting portion (<NUM>) being arranged opposite the second connecting portion (<NUM>); and
a limiting member (<NUM>), wherein the limiting member (<NUM>) is located between the first connecting portion (<NUM>) and the second connecting portion (<NUM>) foldable with respect to each other, and the limiting member (<NUM>) is insulated from the adapter (<NUM>), wherein the limiting member (<NUM>) has a limiting face (<NUM>) configured to abut against the bendable connecting portion (<NUM>), and the bendable connecting portion (<NUM>) is configured to rotate and bend around the limiting face (<NUM>);
wherein the limiting member (<NUM>) comprises a limiting body (<NUM>) and a movable rotary cover (<NUM>) rotatably connected to the limiting body (<NUM>), the limiting body (<NUM>) is configured to abut against the first connecting portion (<NUM>), and the movable rotary cover (<NUM>) is configured to abut against the second connecting portion (<NUM>);
characterized in that the first connecting portion (<NUM>) comprises a first welding area (<NUM>), the limiting body (<NUM>) defines a window (<NUM>) for exposing the first welding area (<NUM>), the adapter assembly (<NUM>) further comprises a first insulating film (<NUM>), and the first insulating film (<NUM>) is arranged at the window (<NUM>) and shields the window (<NUM>).