Battery assembly and battery pack including the same

Abstract

A battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: battery cell stacks comprising a plurality of battery cells; a frame in which the battery cell stacks are housed; and an inlet and an outlet for circulating a refrigerant into the interior of the frame. At least some of the battery cell stacks are arranged along a first direction, and a separating plate is located within the frame, extending along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the separating plate is located between the battery cell stacks arranged along the first direction.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery assembly and a battery pack including the same, and more specifically, to a battery assembly with improved cooling performance and durability and a battery pack including the same. Background Technology

[0002] Secondary batteries, which have high applicability across product groups and electrical characteristics such as high energy density, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) driven by electric power sources. These secondary batteries are widely used as an energy source for enhancing eco-friendliness and energy efficiency, not only because of the primary advantage of being able to drastically reduce the use of fossil fuels, but also because they do not generate any by-products from energy use.

[0003] Types of secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium-polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of these unit secondary battery cells, that is, unit battery cells, is approximately 2.5V to 4.5V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, a battery pack may be formed by connecting multiple battery cells in series. Additionally, a battery pack may be formed by connecting multiple battery cells in parallel depending on the charge / discharge capacity required for the battery pack. Accordingly, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be set in various ways depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0004] Meanwhile, when configuring a battery pack by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel, it is common to first form a battery module by creating a battery cell assembly containing multiple battery cells and housing it in a module case, and then configuring a battery pack by assembling one or more of these battery modules and adding other components, or by arranging multiple battery cells within a pack frame and adding other components.

[0005] Since these battery cells consist of rechargeable secondary batteries, such high-output, high-capacity secondary batteries generate a significant amount of heat during the charging and discharging process. In this case, the heat emitted from multiple battery cells is aggregated within a confined space, causing the temperature to rise rapidly and severely. In other words, while battery packs containing multiple cells can achieve high output, it is not easy to dissipate the heat generated by the cells during charging and discharging. If heat dissipation from the battery cells is not properly carried out, the cells degrade rapidly, shortening their lifespan and increasing the risk of explosion or ignition.

[0006] Furthermore, automotive battery packs are frequently exposed to direct sunlight and may be subjected to high-temperature conditions, such as during the summer or in desert regions. Additionally, because multiple battery cells are densely packed to extend a vehicle's driving range, flames or heat generated in a single battery cell can easily spread to neighboring cells, ultimately leading to the ignition or explosion of the battery pack itself.

[0007] In conventional battery modules, bottom cooling or side cooling methods have been used, in which a heat sink is mounted on the module case of the battery module to cool it.

[0008] However, in the case of battery modules using this cooling method, heat generated from the battery cells is transferred to a heat sink on one side of the module case for cooling, making it difficult to establish a heat transfer path to the other side of the module case. Consequently, there are limitations, such as intensified temperature differences between one end and the other of the battery cell assembly, or unsatisfactory overall cooling efficiency. If these temperature differences are not resolved, issues regarding the safety and durability of the battery module arise. Poor cooling efficiency can accelerate the degradation of battery cells or lead to the spread of thermal runaway if a rapid response is not possible when it occurs in some cells. This can result in disasters such as ignition and explosion of the battery module or the battery pack containing it, causing not only property damage but also safety issues.

[0009] To solve this problem, it has been proposed to use a method of directly cooling the battery cells by filling the inside of the battery assembly with coolant or cooling oil, rather than relying on bottom cooling or side cooling. In other words, to effectively cool high-capacity battery assemblies, a method is used in which a refrigerant directly cools the battery cells inside the battery assembly.

[0010] As refrigerant circulation structures for cooling and sealing structures to prevent refrigerant leakage are required, the number of necessary parts increases. Additionally, in recent years, there has been a demand to increase the number of battery cells included in battery assemblies to secure capacity. As the number of parts or battery cells increases, the battery assembly becomes larger; however, as the battery assembly becomes larger, problems regarding structural rigidity and stability may arise. Accordingly, there is a demand for the development of a battery assembly that can secure structural rigidity while having a structure in which the refrigerant directly cools the battery cells. The problem to be solved

[0011] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery assembly with improved structural rigidity and a battery pack including the same, in a cooling structure in which a refrigerant cools battery cells.

[0012] However, the problems that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve are not limited to the problems described above and can be expanded in various ways within the scope of the technical ideas included in the present invention. means of solving the problem

[0013] A battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: battery cell stacks comprising a plurality of battery cells; a frame in which the battery cell stacks are housed; and an inlet and an outlet for circulating a refrigerant into the interior of the frame. At least some of the battery cell stacks are arranged along a first direction, and a separating plate is located within the frame, extending along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the separating plate is located between the battery cell stacks arranged along the first direction.

[0014] In the battery cell stack above, the battery cells can be stacked along the first direction.

[0015] At least one sealing plate may be located at least one of the two sides according to the second direction with respect to the battery cell stacks.

[0016] The above inlet and the above outlet may be provided on at least one of the sealing plates.

[0017] The above separation plate can be combined with at least one of the above sealing plates.

[0018] A sealing member may be located between the above separation plate and the above sealing plate.

[0019] Side plates may be disposed on each of one side and the other side of the battery cell stacks according to the first direction. At least one sealing plate may be coupled with the side plate.

[0020] Side plates may be disposed on each of one side and the other side of the battery cell stacks according to the first direction. The battery cell stack may include busbar frames on which busbars connected to the electrode leads of the battery cells are mounted. The side plates may be coupled to the busbar frames.

[0021] The above refrigerant can flow by contacting each of the battery cell stacks in turn through the separation plate.

[0022] A first space located on one side of the separation plate and a second space located on the other side of the separation plate may be provided within the frame. The refrigerant introduced through the inlet may flow sequentially through the first space and the second space.

[0023] The above inlet may be in communication with the above first space, and the above outlet may be in communication with the above second space.

[0024] Some of the above battery cell stacks may be arranged along the second direction.

[0025] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: the battery assembly; and a pack cross beam located on one side of the battery assembly along the first direction. The battery assembly is mounted and fixed to the pack cross beam.

[0026] The above battery assembly may be provided in multiple numbers, and at least some of the multiple battery assemblies may be arranged along the first direction. Effects of the invention

[0027] According to embodiments of the present invention, a battery assembly having a structure in which battery cells are housed and a refrigerant circulates is provided with battery cell stacks arranged along a first direction and a separating plate located between them, thereby maintaining the structure of the enlarged battery assembly while simultaneously reinforcing structural rigidity along the first direction.

[0028] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description in the claims. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0029] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate embodiments of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the description of the invention provided below; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a frame included in the battery assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing battery cell stacks, separation plates, and side plates included in the battery assembly of FIG. 1. FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 5 are a perspective view and a plan view, respectively, showing a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing one of the battery cell stacks according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing battery cells, a pad member, and a cooling spacer included in a battery cell stack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of one of the battery cell stacks according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a partial drawing showing an enlarged view of the portion in which battery assemblies according to one embodiment of the present invention are coupled to a pack cross beam. FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a cooling spacer according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 14 to 16 are partial perspective views showing the coupling structure of a side plate in a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing busbar frames and an insulating plate according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of a battery cell stack in which a terminal assembly is joined, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of a battery cell stack according to an embodiment of the present invention where a connecting busbar is located. FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a terminal assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the terminal assembly of FIG. 20. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0030] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0031] To clearly explain the present invention, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0032] Furthermore, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are depicted arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is illustrated. Thicknesses have been enlarged in the drawings to clearly represent various layers and regions. Additionally, for convenience of explanation, the thickness of some layers and regions has been exaggerated in the drawings.

[0033] Furthermore, when a part such as a layer, membrane, region, or plate is said to be "on" or "on" another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly above" the other part, but also the case where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is said to be "directly above" another part, it means that there is no other part in between. Also, saying that a part is "on" or "on" a reference part means that it is located above or below the reference part, and does not necessarily mean that it is located "on" or "on" facing the opposite direction of gravity.

[0034] Furthermore, throughout the specification, when a part is described as "including" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0035] Additionally, throughout the specification, "planar" means when the subject part is viewed from above, and "cross-sectional" means when the cross-section obtained by vertically cutting the subject part is viewed from the side.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a frame included in the battery assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing battery cell stacks, a separator plate, and side plates included in the battery assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are a perspective view and a plan view, respectively, showing a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a battery assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: battery cell stacks (120) comprising a plurality of battery cells (110); a frame (200) in which the battery cell stacks (120) are housed; and an inlet (610) and an outlet (620) for circulating a refrigerant into the interior of the frame (200). At least some of the battery cell stacks (120) are arranged along a first direction. A separation plate (400) extending along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction is located inside the frame (200), and the separation plate (400) is located between the battery cell stacks (120) arranged along the first direction.

[0038] In the present invention, the first direction may be a direction parallel to the x-axis. Additionally, the second direction perpendicular to the first direction may be a direction parallel to the y-axis, and the third direction perpendicular to the first direction may be a direction parallel to the z-axis. That is, the first to third directions may be directions perpendicular to each other, and the present specification describes the present invention based on these first to third directions.

[0039] In the battery assembly (100), a refrigerant circulates inside the frame (200) and cools the battery cells (110). That is, in the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, a method is applied in which the refrigerant directly cools the battery cells (110). In the present invention, at least a portion of the battery cells (110) may come into contact with the refrigerant and be cooled. The refrigerant introduced through the inlet (610) flows along the inside of the frame (200) and can be discharged to the outside of the frame (200) through the outlet (620).

[0040] Hereinafter, the battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment will be described in detail. The battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment can be any type of secondary battery, such as a prismatic, cylindrical, or pouch-type battery cell. However, below, as an example, the battery cell (110) which is a pouch-type battery cell will be described.

[0041] First, the battery cell (110) may be a pouch-type battery in which an electrode assembly having electrode leads (111) protruding in one or both directions is housed in a pouch case (114). However, this is merely one example, and the battery cell according to another embodiment of the present invention may be a cylindrical or prismatic battery cell. For convenience of explanation, the following description will be based on a pouch-type battery cell (110).

[0042] The battery cell (110) may have a rectangular sheet shape. The battery cell (110) may be formed by housing an electrode assembly in a pouch case (114) of a laminate sheet comprising a resin layer and a metal layer, and then bonding the outer periphery of the pouch case (114). For example, the battery cell (110) may have a structure in which two electrode leads (111) face each other and protrude from one end and the other end of the cell body (113), respectively. As another embodiment, a structure in which all electrode leads (111) of the battery cell (110) protrude in one direction is also possible. One of the electrode leads (111) is a positive electrode lead, and the other is a negative electrode lead.

[0043] The battery cell (110) may have a sealing portion, which is a portion that is bonded to the outer periphery of the pouch case (114). Specifically, the battery cell (110) may be manufactured by bonding the two ends (114c, 114d) of the pouch case (114) and the upper portion (114b) connecting them, while the electrode assembly (not shown) is housed in the pouch case (114). Sealing portions may be formed on the two ends (114c, 114d) and the upper portion (114b) of the pouch case (114). In other words, the battery cell (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention has a total of three sealing portions, and the sealing portions are structured to be sealed by a method such as fusion, and the remaining lower portion (114a) may be made of a folding portion. That is, the battery cell (110) according to the present embodiment may be a pouch-type battery cell in which an electrode assembly is housed inside a pouch case (114) and the outer periphery of the pouch case (114) is sealed to form a sealing portion. In FIGS. 4 and 5, only the sealing portions formed at both ends (114c, 114d) of the pouch case (114) are shown, and the upper portion (114b) is shown in a state where the sealing portion is folded to one side after the sealing is completed.

[0044] The pouch case (114) of the laminate sheet may include an inner resin layer for sealing, a metal layer for preventing penetration of material, and an outermost resin layer. Based on the electrode assembly inside the pouch case (114), the inner resin layer may be located at the innermost position, the outer resin layer at the outermost position, and the metal layer may be located between the inner resin layer and the outer resin layer.

[0045] The outer resin layer may possess excellent tensile strength and weather resistance relative to its thickness and electrical insulation properties to protect the electrode assembly from the outside. This outer resin layer may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin or nylon resin. The metal layer may prevent air, moisture, etc. from entering the interior of the pouch-type secondary battery. This metal layer may include aluminum (Al). The inner resin layers may be thermally fused together by applied heat and / or pressure while the electrode assembly is embedded. This inner resin layer may include casted polypropylene (CPP) or polypropylene (PP).

[0046] A pouch case (114) may be divided into two parts, and a concave-shaped storage portion may be formed in at least one of the two parts so that an electrode assembly can be seated thereon. Along the outer circumference of this storage portion, a sealing portion may be provided by bonding the inner resin layers of the two parts of the pouch case (114) to each other. In this way, the pouch case (114) is sealed so that a battery cell (110), which is a pouch-type battery, can be manufactured.

[0047] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the sealing portions at both ends (114c, 114d) of the battery cell (110), where the electrode lead (111) protrudes from the battery cell (110), correspond to the so-called terrace part of the battery cell (110). This terrace part is thinner than the cell body (113) of the battery cell (110).

[0048] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. In particular, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the battery assembly taken along the xy-plane and viewed along the -z-axis direction. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing one of the battery cell stacks according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing battery cells, a pad member, and a cooling spacer included in a battery cell stack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 8 together, in a battery cell stack (120), battery cells (110) can be stacked along the first direction. In the battery cell stack (120), the battery cells (110) may be composed of a plurality of battery cells, and a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked to form the battery cell stack (120). In the battery cell stack (120), the battery cells (110) may be electrically connected to each other. In particular, as shown in FIG. 8, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along the first direction while standing upright so that one side of the cell body (113, see FIG. 4) faces each other. As described above, in the present invention, the first direction may be a direction parallel to the x-axis. Accordingly, electrode leads (111) may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked. The electrode leads (111) may protrude along a direction parallel to the second direction. That is, in the battery cell (110), one electrode lead (111) may protrude in the y-axis direction, and the other electrode lead (111) may protrude in the -y-axis direction. If the battery cell has electrode leads (111) protruding in only one direction, the electrode leads (111) protrude in the y-axis direction or the -y-axis direction.

[0050] In the case of the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, a plurality of battery cell stacks (120) may be provided within the frame (200). For example, FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIGS. 6, etc., show that first to fourth battery cell stacks (120a, 120b, 120c, 120d) are provided within the frame (200). This is an exemplary structure of the present invention, and there is no particular limitation on the number of battery cell stacks (120) provided within the frame (200). In the battery assembly (100) of the present invention, a plurality of battery cell stacks (120) formed by stacking battery cells (110) are provided, thereby increasing the total number of included battery cells (110) and realizing the enlargement and capacity increase of the battery assembly (100).

[0051] As described above, at least some of the battery cell stacks (120) may be arranged along a first direction. In other words, at least some of the battery cell stacks (120) may be arranged along a first direction, which is the direction in which battery cells (110) are stacked in the battery cell stacks (120). FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIG. 6 illustrate, as an example structure, a first battery cell stack (120a) and a third battery cell stack (120c) are arranged along the first direction inside a frame (200), and a second battery cell stack (120b) and a fourth battery cell stack (120d) are arranged along the first direction.

[0052] Although the battery assembly (100) is enlarged by providing multiple battery cell stacks (120), the structural stability of the battery assembly (100) may be reduced to the extent of the enlargement, and it may also be vulnerable to external impact. In particular, the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment may be vulnerable to impact in a first direction corresponding to the side of the battery assembly (100).

[0053] In the present invention, to ensure structural stability for a large battery assembly (100), at least some of the battery cell stacks (120) are arranged along a first direction, and a separation plate (400) is placed between the battery cell stacks (120) arranged along the first direction. Due to the arrangement structure of the battery cell stacks (120) and the presence of the separation plate (400) as described above, the structural stability of the large battery assembly (100) can be maintained and rigidity against external impact can be secured. In particular, rigidity against impact in the first direction applied to the battery assembly (100) can be secured. Specifically, even if an impact in the first direction is applied to the battery assembly (100), rigidity in the first direction can be secured because the battery cell stacks (120) support and complement each other in the first direction. Additionally, the separation plate (400) interposed between the battery cell stacks (120) arranged along the first direction can support impact along the first direction and reinforce the structural rigidity of the battery assembly (100) along the first direction. Furthermore, as the separation plate (400) located between the battery cell stacks (120) extends along the second direction, it helps maintain the overall structure of the battery assembly (100) and ensures structural stability.

[0054] In addition, at least some of the battery cell stacks (120) are arranged along a first direction which is the stacking direction of the battery cells (110), thereby ensuring structural rigidity and enabling a more compact arrangement, which can be effective in increasing capacity and energy density.

[0055] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 3 and FIGS. 6, in the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, the refrigerant (CL, see FIG. 6) can flow by contacting each of the battery cell stacks (120) in turn through the separation plate (400). The separation plate (400) according to the present embodiment can perform the function of securing the structural stability of the battery assembly (100) and supplementing the rigidity of the sides, as well as the function of guiding the direction in which the refrigerant (CL) flows inside the frame (200). The separation plate (400) can set the direction of flow of the refrigerant (CL) while partitioning the internal space of the frame (200). Through this separation plate (400), the refrigerant (CL) can be induced to flow by contacting each of the battery cell stacks (120) in turn. For example, the refrigerant (CL) introduced through the inlet (610) can flow while sequentially contacting the first battery cell stack (120a), the second battery cell stack (120b), the fourth battery cell stack (120d), and the third battery cell stack (120c), and then be discharged through the outlet (620).

[0056] A separation plate (400) can partition the internal space of the frame (200) and set the flow direction of the refrigerant (CL). Inside the frame (200), a first space (S1) located on one side of the separation plate (400) and a second space (S2) located on the other side of the separation plate (400) may be provided. The refrigerant (CL) introduced through the inlet (610) may flow through the first space (S1) and the second space (S2) in sequence and then be discharged through the outlet (620). The inlet (610) may be in communication with the first space (S1), and the outlet (620) may be in communication with the second space (S2). As the refrigerant (CL) flows along the inlet (610), the first space (S1), the second space (S2), and the outlet (620), it may flow while contacting each of the battery cell stacks (120) in sequence.

[0057] When the refrigerant (CL) circulates within the frame (200) to cool the battery cells (110), if the refrigerant (CL) does not flow uniformly through the zones within the frame (200), a cooling variation between zones may occur, which can exacerbate the temperature variation between the battery cells (110). Such a cooling variation between zones can cause performance degradation and a shortened lifespan of the battery assembly (100). In particular, in the case of a large battery assembly (100) equipped with multiple battery cell stacks (120), the refrigerant (CL) may not flow uniformly through the zones within the frame (200) as much as the internal space of the frame (200) has increased.

[0058] Accordingly, in the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, the separation plate (400) partitions the internal space of the frame (200) and sets the flow direction of the refrigerant (CL), thereby configuring the refrigerant (CL) to uniformly cool all the battery cells (110) inside the frame (200). The refrigerant (CL) can be induced to flow by contacting each of the battery cell stacks (120) in turn by the separation plate (400). Accordingly, the refrigerant (CL) can uniformly contact all the battery cell stacks (120), and thus the temperature difference between the battery cells (110) can be minimized.

[0059] In the case of a structure in which at least some of the battery cell stacks (120) are arranged along a first direction, if the flow direction of the refrigerant (CL) is not controlled by the separation plate (400), a significant difference in the degree of cooling may occur in each zone according to the first direction. In the case of a structure in which at least some of the battery cell stacks (120) are arranged along a first direction and the width of the battery assembly (100) along the first direction is expanded, it is highly likely that the refrigerant (CL) will flow concentrated in only a specific area as much as the width is expanded. If the refrigerant (CL) flows only in a specific area, a cooling variation between zones occurs, and the temperature variation between the battery cells (110) is intensified. In this embodiment, to solve this problem, the separation plate (400) is arranged to partition the internal space of the frame (200) and set the flow direction of the refrigerant (CL) as described above. Because the refrigerant (CL) is induced to flow by contacting each of the battery cell stacks (120) in turn by the separation plate (400), even if at least some of the battery cell stacks (120) are arranged along the first direction, the refrigerant (CL) can cool all of the battery cell stacks (120) by contacting all of them evenly. For example, the refrigerant (CL) introduced through the inlet (610) can flow through the first space (S1) and the second space (S2) in turn and then be discharged through the outlet (620). In this process, the refrigerant (CL) can flow while contacting the first battery cell stack (120a), the second battery cell stack (120b), the fourth battery cell stack (120d), and the third battery cell stack (120c) in turn. Even if at least some of the battery cell stacks (120) are arranged along the first direction, the width of the flow path of the refrigerant (CL) along the first direction is narrowed by the separation plate (400), so even cooling by the refrigerant (CL) can be maintained.That is, the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment can significantly increase battery capacity and energy density by implementing a large-scale structure including a plurality of battery cell stacks (120), and at the same time, structural stability and rigidity against external impact can be secured by using battery cell stacks (120) arranged along a first direction and a separation plate (400) arranged between them, and the temperature difference between battery cells (110) can be minimized by controlling the flow path of the refrigerant (CL).

[0060] Meanwhile, the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment may include a sealing plate (500) located at least one of the two sides according to the second direction based on the battery cell stacks (120). For example, the sealing plate (500) may include a first sealing plate (500a) and a second sealing plate (500b), and the first sealing plate (500a) and the second sealing plate (500b) may each cover the two open sides of the frame (200) according to the second direction. The separation plate (400) may be coupled to any one of the sealing plates (500) to induce the refrigerant (CL) to flow while contacting each of the battery cell stacks (120) in turn, and may be spaced apart from the other one of the sealing plates (500) by a predetermined distance or a separate connection hole may be formed. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the separation plate (400) can be combined with the first sealing plate (500a) and separated from the second sealing plate (500b). The refrigerant (CL) introduced through the inlet (610) flows along the first space (S1) and can move to the second space (S2) through the space between the separation plate (400) and the second sealing plate (500b). The refrigerant (CL) that has moved to the second space (S2) can flow along the second space (S2) and then be discharged through the outlet (620). The refrigerant (CL) introduced through the inlet (610) flows along the first space (S1) and can sequentially come into contact with the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b). Subsequently, the refrigerant (CL) can move to the second space (S2) through the space between the separation plate (400) and the second sealing plate (500b). The refrigerant (CL) introduced into the second space (S2) can sequentially contact the fourth battery cell stack (120d) and the third battery cell stack (120c) and then be discharged through the outlet (620).

[0061] Meanwhile, the refrigerant according to the present embodiment is a cooling medium that cools a heat-generating object, and there are no restrictions on its form or material. Refrigerants (CL) of various phases can be applied. For example, a cooling medium in a solid, fluid, liquid, or gaseous state can be applied to the refrigerant (CL) without limitation. In addition, bubbles, paraffin, or phase change materials (PCM) can be applied to the refrigerant (CL).

[0062] As an example, the refrigerant may be a fluid. The refrigerant may be cooling water or cooling oil. Meanwhile, since the refrigerant may come into direct contact with the battery cells (110), electrode leads (111), and busbars (810), etc. within the battery assembly (100), the refrigerant may be electrically insulating. The refrigerant may be a material having insulating properties. For example, the refrigerant may be insulating oil. However, these are exemplary materials, and as described above, any material capable of cooling an object requiring cooling may be applied to the refrigerant in the present invention without limitation.

[0064] Meanwhile, referring again to FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIG. 6, as described above, battery cell stacks (120) can be housed in a frame (200). The frame (200) may be for protecting the battery cell stacks (120) and the electrical components connected thereto from external physical impact. The battery cell stacks (120) and the electrical components connected thereto may be housed in the internal space of the frame (200).

[0065] The structure of the frame (200) included in the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment may vary. There are no restrictions on the shape of the frame (200) in the present invention as long as it can cover at least a portion of the battery cell stacks (120). For example, the frame (200) may include a first side portion (201), a second side portion (202), a bottom portion (203), and a ceiling portion (204). The first side portion (201), the second side portion (202), the bottom portion (203), and the ceiling portion (204) form an internal space, and the battery cell stacks (120) may be located in this internal space.

[0066] Additionally, there are no restrictions on the combined structure between the first side section (201), the second side section (202), the bottom section (203), and the ceiling section (204). For example, the frame (200) may be a structure in which a U-shaped frame and an upper plate are combined. In this case, the U-shaped frame may have a bottom surface and two sides extending upward from both corners of the bottom surface, and the upper plate may be in the form of a plate. The U-shaped frame may be a structure in which the first side section (201), the second side section (202), and the bottom section (203) are integrated, and the upper plate may correspond to a structure having only the ceiling section (204) separately. At this time, each frame or plate constituting the U-shaped frame may be manufactured by press forming. After the battery cell stack (120) is housed in a U-shaped frame of a member in which the first side portion (201), the second side portion (202), and the bottom portion (203) are integrated, the upper plate of the ceiling portion (204) is joined to the U-shaped frame to realize the frame (200). Additionally, as another example, the first side portion (201), the second side portion (202), the bottom portion (203), and the ceiling portion (204) may be a member in which they are integrated together, and the battery cell stack (120) may be housed in its internal space.

[0067] The frame (200) may be open on both sides. The frame (200) may be open on both sides according to a second direction. The open sides of the main frame (200) may be in the +y-axis direction and the -y-axis direction. The open sides of the frame (200) may be covered by a sealing plate (500). That is, the portion of the battery cell stack (120) that is not covered by the frame (200) may be covered by the sealing plate (500). For example, the frame (200) may be provided in an open form along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (110). In this case, the front and rear of the battery cell stack (120) may not be covered by the frame (200). The front and rear of the battery cell stack (120) may be covered by the sealing plate (500).

[0068] Gas may be generated inside the battery cell (110) due to deterioration or other factors as charging and discharging are repeated. When gas is generated inside in this way, the internal pressure increases, causing a swelling phenomenon in which the battery cell (110) bulges. In particular, in the case of a pouch-type battery cell, the structural rigidity of the outer material is weaker compared to a can-type battery cell, so the swelling phenomenon may occur more prominently. Battery cells (110) that have undergone swelling may expand mainly along their thickness direction. In the case of the battery cells (110) according to the present embodiment, they may expand along the first direction, which is the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked, that is, the direction parallel to the x-axis.

[0069] Additionally, the battery cell stack (120) can be housed inside the frame (200) while compressed along a direction parallel to the x-axis. This may be one of the methods for applying a certain level of pressure to the battery cells (110). The pressure applied to the battery cells (110) may affect the lifespan performance of the battery assembly (100). An appropriate level of pressure must be applied to the battery cells (110) so that the appropriate capacity can be maintained even when the charging and discharging cycles of the battery assembly (100) proceed. If the pressure is below or above a certain level, a problem of sudden drop in capacity may occur during the cycle.

[0070] The first direction, which is the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked, is also the direction in which the battery cells (110) expand due to the swelling phenomenon, and may also be the direction in which a compressive force is applied to the battery cell stack (120) to apply an appropriate level of pressure to the battery cells (110). In the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, at least some of the battery cell stacks (120) are arranged along the first direction, and since a separating plate (400) is located between the battery cell stacks (120) arranged along the first direction, the expansion due to swelling of the battery cells (110) can be easily controlled, and an appropriate level of pressure can be applied to the battery cells (110).

[0072] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of one of the battery cell stacks according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 3, 7, and 9 together, at least a portion of a sensing member (700) for transmitting voltage data and temperature data of battery cells (110) may be positioned on one side of a battery cell stack (120) according to a first direction. As the sensing member (700) is positioned as described above, a larger space can be secured for the cooling channel through which the refrigerant flows within the frame (200). That is, cooling performance can be improved by securing a space for the refrigerant to circulate. In addition, since the sensing member (700) is positioned on one side of the battery cell stack (120) that does not interfere with the cooling channel, the size of the battery assembly (100) in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction can be reduced, thereby increasing space utilization and increasing the energy density of the battery assembly (100).

[0074] For example, in a battery cell stack (120) according to the present embodiment, battery cells (110) may be stacked along the first direction. Based on the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked, at least a portion of the sensing member (700) may be disposed on one side of the battery cell stack (120).

[0075] Within the frame (200), one side of the battery cell stack (120) according to the direction in which the battery cells (110) are stacked may be a place where the influence of the refrigerant is minimal. By placing at least a portion of the sensing member (700) for transmitting voltage data and temperature data of the battery cells (110) in this place, the cooling path is not obstructed by the sensing member (700), thereby allowing for a larger space to be secured. Since a cooling path space sufficient to achieve the desired cooling performance can be secured within the limited space inside the frame (200), it can be seen that the space utilization within the frame is increased.

[0076] In a third direction perpendicular to the first direction, at least a portion of the refrigerant may flow in at least one of the space between one side of the battery cell stack (120) and one surface of the frame (200) along the third direction, or the space between the other side of the battery cell stack (120) and the other surface of the frame (200) along the third direction. As described above, the third direction may be a direction parallel to the z-axis. In accordance with the present embodiment, at least a portion of the refrigerant may flow in at least one of the space between one side of the battery cell stack (120) along the third direction and the ceiling portion (204), or the space between the other side of the battery cell stack (120) along the third direction and the floor portion (203).

[0077] Meanwhile, a battery assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include side plates (300, see FIG. 3) disposed on each of one side and the other side of battery cell stacks (120) according to a first direction. For example, a first side plate (300a) and a second side plate (300b) may be located on each of both sides of the entire battery cell stacks (120) according to the first direction.

[0078] A side plate (300) may cover at least a portion of the sensing member (700). At least a portion of the sensing member (700) may be located between the side plate (300) and one side of the battery cell stack (120) according to the first direction. For example, any one of the side plates (300) may cover at least a portion of the sensing member (700). Additionally, at least a portion of the sensing member (700) may be located between any one of the side plates (300) and one side of the battery cell stack (120) according to the first direction.

[0079] The side plate (300) may be a plate-shaped member, and there are no special restrictions on the material applied to the side plate (300) as long as it can have a certain rigidity. For example, the side plate (300) may include plastic or metal materials.

[0080] The side plate (300) can protect the sensing member (700) by covering at least a portion of the sensing member (700). The side plate (300) can prevent the sensing member (700) from being damaged by external vibrations or shocks. Additionally, it can prevent the sensing member (700) from being damaged by the frame (200) during the process of the battery cell stack (120) being housed into the internal space of the frame (200). For example, since the sensing member (700) is covered by the side plate (300), when the battery cell stack (120) is inserted into the internal space of the frame (200), the sensing member (700) is prevented from being damaged by the first side portion (201) or the second side portion (202) of the frame (200). The side plate (300) according to the present embodiment can be housed into the internal space of the frame (200) together with the battery cell stack (120).

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 9 together, a battery cell stack (120) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include pad members (130) disposed at the outermost side with respect to the first direction. Pad members (130) may be located at each of the outermost sides of the battery cell stack (120) with respect to the first direction. Additionally, pad members (130) may be additionally disposed between battery cells (110) in the battery cell stack (120). In one embodiment, pad members (130) may be located between all of the battery cells (110), and in another embodiment, pad members (130) may be located between some of the battery cells (110). The number of pad members (130) may be determined in various ways depending on the number and size of the battery cells (110), the material of the electrodes applied, etc. FIG. 8 illustrates a form in which pad members (130) are located between some of the battery cells (110).

[0082] The pad member (130) may be a foam-shaped member and can absorb the swelling of the battery cells (110). If the swelling phenomenon of the battery cells (110) is not absorbed and controlled, the pressure inside the battery assembly (100) increases and the volume increases, which may have a negative effect on the structural stability of the battery assembly (100). Accordingly, the swelling of the battery cells (110) is partially absorbed by placing a pad member (130) that is compressed when pressure is applied, either at the outermost side of the battery cell stack (120) according to the first direction or between the battery cells (110). As long as the pad member (130) can be compressed to absorb the swelling of the battery cells (110), there are no special restrictions on its material, and it may include, for example, a polyurethane material.

[0083] At least a portion of the sensing member (700) may be located between the pad member (130) and the side plate (300). At least a portion of the sensing member (700) may be located between the side plate (300) and the pad member (130) positioned at the outermost side of the battery cell stack (120) with respect to the first direction.

[0084] The sensing member (700) according to the present embodiment can be stably positioned between the pad member (130) and the side plate (300). As described above, the pad member (130) can be compressed when pressure is applied. Even if external vibrations or shocks occur, the pad member (130) can absorb such vibrations or shocks as it is compressed, thereby preventing damage to the sensing member (700). The sensing member (700) located between the pad member (130) and the side plate (300) can maintain structural stability even if external vibrations or shocks occur.

[0085] The sensing member (700) according to the present embodiment may be a member for transmitting voltage data and temperature data of battery cells (110). The sensing member (700) may be a member for so-called LV (Low Voltage) connection. The LV connection refers to an electrical connection that requires a relatively low voltage, such as battery electrical components. The sensing member (700) senses voltage data or temperature data of battery cells (110) included in the battery assembly (100) and transmits the sensed voltage or temperature data to a Battery Management System (BMS) located inside or outside the battery assembly (100). The Battery Management System can control and manage the operation of the battery assembly (100) based on the transmitted voltage or temperature data. The sensing member (700) may be a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB) or a Flexible Flat Cable (FFC).

[0086] The sensing member (700) according to the present embodiment may include a connecting sensing member (710) and a measuring sensing member (720). The connecting sensing member (710) and the measuring sensing member (720) may each be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) or a flexible flat cable (FFC).

[0087] The measurement sensing member (720) can measure voltage data and temperature data of the battery cells (110). The measurement sensing member (720) may be composed of multiple units and may be located on each side according to the second direction of the battery cell stack (120). The connecting sensing member (710) may be a member for electrically connecting the measurement sensing members (720) located in such a spaced-away manner.

[0088] Among the sensing members (700), at least a portion of the connecting sensing member (710) may be disposed on one side of the battery cell stack (120) according to the first direction. Additionally, the side plate (300) may cover at least a portion of the connecting sensing member (710). Additionally, at least a portion of the connecting sensing member (710) may be located between the side plate (300) and one side of the battery cell stack (120) according to the first direction. Additionally, at least a portion of the connecting sensing member (710) may be located between the side plate (300) and the pad member (130) disposed on the outermost side of the battery cell stack (120) with respect to the first direction.

[0089] Meanwhile, the battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment may include a busbar (810) for electrically connecting battery cells (110). The busbar (810) is for electrically connecting the battery cells (110) and may include a metal material to enable electrical connection. The electrode lead (111) of the battery cell (110) may be electrically connected to the busbar (810). Although there are no particular restrictions on the method of electrical connection, for example, the electrode lead (111) and the busbar (810) may be connected to each other by welding.

[0090] A battery cell stack (120) may include busbar frames (800) on which a busbar (810) is mounted and connected to the electrode leads (111) of the battery cells (110). A battery cell stack (120) may include busbar frames (800) located on both sides according to the second direction. A busbar (810) may be mounted on one side of such a busbar frame (800). A busbar (810) may be mounted on the opposite side of the busbar frame (800) that faces the battery cells (110). A slit may be formed in the busbar frame (800), and the electrode leads (111) of the battery cells (110) may pass through the slit of the busbar frame (800), bend, and be connected to the busbar (810). The busbar frame (800) may include an electrically insulating material, and may include, for example, a plastic material.

[0091] The measurement sensing member (720) described above can be mounted on one side of the busbar frame (800). The measurement sensing member (720) can be mounted on the opposite side of the busbar frame (800) that faces the battery cells (110).

[0092] As described above, the measurement sensing member (720) can measure voltage data and temperature data of the battery cells (110). For example, the measurement sensing member (720) may include a first sensing unit (721) for measuring voltage data of the battery cells (110) and a second sensing unit (722) for measuring temperature data of the battery cells (110).

[0093] The first sensing unit (721) is a portion extending from the measurement sensing member (720) and can be electrically connected to the electrode leads (111) of the battery cells (110) or the busbar (810). In particular, a bonding plate may be provided at the end of the first sensing unit (721), and such bonding plate may be electrically connected to the electrode leads (111) or the busbar (810). In FIGS. 7 and 9, the first sensing unit (721) is shown connected to the busbar (810). Voltage data of the battery cells (110) measured by the first sensing unit (721) can be transmitted to the battery management system through the measurement sensing member (720).

[0094] The second sensing unit (722) is a portion extending from the measurement sensing member (720) and may extend toward the battery cells (110). The second sensing unit (722) may extend between the battery cells (110) or toward the cell body (113, see FIG. 4 and FIG. 7) of the battery cell (110). In FIG. 16 through 20, etc., the second sensing unit (722) is shown extending toward one of the battery cells (110) located at the outermost position in the battery cell stack (120). The temperature measured by the second sensing unit (722) may be transmitted to the battery management system through the measurement sensing member (720).

[0095] A battery cell stack (120) may include busbar frames (800) located on both sides according to the second direction, and a plurality of measurement sensing members (720) may be located on each of the busbar frames (800). A plurality of measurement sensing members (720) may be located on each side according to the second direction of the battery cell stack (120). A connecting sensing member (710) may connect between these plurality of measurement sensing members (720). One end of the connecting sensing member (710) may be connected to any one of the plurality of measurement sensing members (720), and the other end of the connecting sensing member (710) may be connected to the other of the plurality of measurement sensing members (720). Voltage and temperature data of the battery cell (110) measured by each of the plurality of measurement sensing members (720) can be collected together by the connection sensing member (710) and then finally transmitted to a battery management system located inside or outside the battery assembly (100).

[0097] Referring together to FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIG. 6, in a battery assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one sealing plate (500) may be located at at least one of the two sides according to the second direction with respect to the battery cell stack (120).

[0098] For example, a plurality of sealing plates (500) may be provided, and the sealing plates (500) may each cover both open sides of the frame (200). Both sides of the frame (200) may be open according to the second direction, and the sealing plates (500) may cover both open sides of the main frame (200). The sealing plate (500) may include a first sealing plate (500a) and a second sealing plate (500b), and the first sealing plate (500a) and the second sealing plate (500b) may each cover both open sides of the frame (200) according to the second direction. As the frame (200) is covered by the sealing plate (500), the internal space of the frame (200) may be sealed. The sealing plate (500) may prevent the refrigerant from leaking to the outside of the frame (200). There are no special restrictions on the material applied to the sealing plate (500), but for example, the sealing plate (500) may include a plastic material or a metal material.

[0099] For example, an inlet (610) and an outlet (620) for circulating refrigerant into the interior of the frame (200) may be provided on at least one sealing plate (500). For example, the inlet (610) and the outlet (620) may be provided together on either the first sealing plate (500a) or the second sealing plate (500b).

[0100] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a separation plate (400) may be coupled with at least one sealing plate (500). For example, a sealing bolt (400B) may pass through the sealing plate (500) and be coupled with the separation plate (400). In FIG. 6, as an example, a sealing bolt (400B) is shown passing through the first sealing plate (500a) and being coupled with the separation plate (400).

[0101] Meanwhile, a sealing member (400S) may be positioned between the separation plate (400) and the sealing plate (500). In order to induce the refrigerant (CL) to flow sequentially through the first space (S1) and the second space (S2), a structure may be required to prevent leakage of the refrigerant between the first space (S1) and the second space (S2). Accordingly, a sealing member (400S) may be provided between the separation plate (400) and the sealing plate (500). The sealing member (400S) can help maintain the flow direction of the refrigerant (CL) implemented by the separation plate (400) by sealing the space between the separation plate (400) and the sealing plate (500). For example, the sealing member (400S) may be positioned between the sealing plate (500) coupled to the separation plate (400) and the separation plate (400). A separation plate (400) can be coupled to a first sealing plate (500a), and a sealing member (400S) can be interposed between the first sealing plate (500a) and the separation plate (400). Accordingly, the connection between the first space (S1) and the second space (S2) through the gap between the separation plate (400) and the first sealing plate (500a) can be blocked. That is, the movement of the refrigerant (CL) from the first space (S1) to the second space (S2) or from the second space (S2) to the first space (S1) through the gap between the separation plate (400) and the first sealing plate (500a) can be blocked. A sealing bolt (400B) can be coupled to the separation plate (400) by passing through the first sealing plate (500a) and the sealing member (400S).

[0102] Meanwhile, the separation plate (400) may be combined with any one of the sealing plates (500) and spaced apart from the other of the sealing plates (500) by a predetermined distance to induce the refrigerant (CL) to flow while contacting each of the battery cell stacks (120) in turn. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the separation plate (400) may be combined with the first sealing plate (500a) and spaced apart from the second sealing plate (500b). That is, the separation plate (400) may be combined with the first sealing plate (500a) and not combined with the second sealing plate (500b) while maintaining a distance from it. When the refrigerant (CL) flows from the first space (S1) to the second space (S2), it may pass through the space between the separation plate (400) and the second sealing plate (500b). In this embodiment, a structure in which a refrigerant (CL) flows while contacting each of the battery cell stacks (120) in turn can be implemented by a separation plate (400) and a second sealing plate (500b) spaced apart from the separation plate (400).

[0103] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a battery assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 10, a separation plate (400) according to another embodiment of the present invention can be coupled with each of the sealing plates (500). One end of the separation plate (400) can be coupled with a first sealing plate (500a), and the other end of the separation plate (400) can be coupled with a second sealing plate (500b). For example, a sealing bolt (400B) can pass through the first sealing plate (500a) to be coupled with one end of the separation plate (400), and another sealing bolt (400B) can pass through the second sealing plate (500b) to be coupled with the other end of the separation plate (400). One sealing member (400S) may be positioned between the first sealing plate (500a) and the separation plate (400), and another sealing member (400S) may be positioned between the second sealing plate (500b) and the separation plate (400).

[0105] A connection hole (400H) may be formed at a point close to any one of the sealing plates (500) among the separation plates (400). The sealing plate (500) located close to the connection hole (400H) may be a sealing plate (500) in which an inlet (610) and an outlet (620) are not formed. For example, both an inlet (610) and an outlet (620) may be formed in the first sealing plate (500a), and the connection hole (400H) may be formed at a point closer to the second sealing plate (500b) than to the first sealing plate (500a) among the separation plates (400).

[0106] When the refrigerant (CL) flows from the first space (S1) to the second space (S2), it can pass through the connection hole (400H) of the separation plate (400). In this embodiment, a structure in which the refrigerant (CL) flows while contacting each of the battery cell stacks (120) in turn can be implemented by the separation plate (400) and the connection hole (400H) formed in the separation plate (400).

[0108] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a partial view showing an enlarged portion in which battery assemblies according to one embodiment of the present invention are coupled to a pack cross beam.

[0109] Referring together to FIGS. 1 to 3, FIGS. 6, FIGS. 11 and FIGS. 12, a battery pack (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a battery assembly (100); and a pack cross beam (1200) located on one side of the battery assembly (100) according to the first direction, and the battery assembly (100) can be mounted and fixed to the pack cross beam (1200).

[0110] A battery pack (1000) may include a pack frame (1100) in which a battery assembly (100) is housed. The battery assembly (100) may be housed in the internal space of the pack frame (1100). The battery assembly (100) may include a mounting portion (200M) for mounting fixation. The mounting portion (200M) may be provided on the frame (200). There may be multiple mounting portions (200M), and the mounting portions (200M) may have a structure that protrudes along a direction perpendicular to one side of the first side portion (201) or one side of the second side portion (202). A mounting hole may be formed in the mounting portion (200M). The mounting portions (200M) may be provided on the first side portion (201) and the second side portion (202) of the frame (200).

[0111] The battery assembly (100) can be fastened to a pack cross beam (1200) located on one side of the battery assembly (100) along the first direction through a mounting portion (200M). For example, a mounting bolt can be fastened to the pack cross beam (1200) after passing through a mounting hole of the mounting portion (200M). FIG. 12 is a top view of the mounting portion (200M) fastened to the pack cross beam (1200). As the mounting portion (200M) of the battery assembly (100) is fixed to the pack cross beam (1200), the battery assembly (100) can be fixed inside the battery pack (1000).

[0112] A battery assembly (100) according to the present embodiment, having a plurality of battery cell stacks (120), may be vulnerable to impact in a first direction corresponding to the side of the battery assembly (100).

[0113] The pack cross beam (1200) according to the present embodiment can support the side of the battery assembly (100) along the first direction. Accordingly, the pack cross beam (1200) for fixing the battery assembly (100) can improve the structural rigidity of the side of the battery assembly (100) along the first direction. Since the pack cross beam (1200) can support the battery assembly (100) even when an impact is applied along the first direction, the overall structure of the battery pack (1000) can be maintained and structural stability can be secured.

[0114] In the battery pack (1000) according to the present embodiment, a plurality of battery assemblies (100) may be provided, and at least some of the plurality of battery assemblies (100) may be arranged along the first direction. FIG. 11 shows the battery assemblies (100) arranged along the first direction.

[0115] Even if an impact is applied to the battery pack (1000) in the first direction, the battery assemblies (100) can support and complement each other in the first direction, thereby ensuring rigidity in the first direction. Due to the battery cell stacks (120) arranged along the first direction within the battery assembly (100) and the separation plate (400) located between them, the structural rigidity of the battery assembly (100) in the first direction can be reinforced, and it can withstand external impacts in the first direction well. In this embodiment, by arranging a plurality of battery assemblies (100) within the battery pack (1000) along this first direction, the structural rigidity in the first direction can be further reinforced, thereby ensuring structural stability against external impacts. Additionally, a pack cross beam (1200) may be positioned between the battery assemblies (100) arranged along the first direction. This pack cross beam (1200) can also increase the structural rigidity of the battery assemblies (100).

[0116] Meanwhile, referring again to FIGS. 3, 6, 7, 9 and 11, a battery assembly (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a connector assembly (730) in which at least a portion is exposed to the outside of a frame (200). A sensing member (700) may be connected to the connector assembly (730) and may transmit voltage data and temperature data of battery cells (110) to the connector assembly (730).

[0117] The battery pack (1000) may include a battery management system (1300, Battery Management System, BMS). The battery management system (1300) may be housed in the internal space of the pack frame (1100). The connector assembly (730) may transmit voltage data and temperature data of the battery cells (110), measured and collected by the sensing member (700), to the battery management system (1300) located inside or outside the battery assembly (100). The battery management system (1300) may control and manage the operation of the battery assembly (100) based on the transmitted voltage or temperature data.

[0118] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a cooling spacer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Referring together to FIG. 8 and FIG. 13, a battery cell stack (120) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include cooling spacers (140) interposed between battery cells (110). In one embodiment, cooling spacers (140) may be interposed between all of the battery cells (110), and in another embodiment, at least one cooling spacer (140) may be interposed between some of the battery cells (110).

[0120] The cooling spacer (140) may include a main body portion (141) positioned between the battery cells (110) and in surface contact with the battery cells (110). The main body portion (141) of the cooling spacer (140) may be a plate-shaped member extending along the second direction, and one surface of the main body portion (141) may be in contact with one surface of the cell body (113, see FIG. 4 and FIG. 5) of the battery cell (110). Additionally, as another embodiment, an adhesive may be interposed between the main body portion (141) of the cooling spacer (140) and the battery cell (110).

[0121] The cooling spacer (140) may include at least one flow channel hole (140H) penetrating along the second direction. For example, at least one flow channel hole (140H) may be formed in the main body portion (141).

[0122] As described above, the refrigerant introduced through the inlet (610) can flow along the internal space of the frame (200) and then be discharged through the outlet (620). A portion of the refrigerant introduced through the inlet (610) can flow along the flow path hole (140H) of the cooling spacer (140) and then be discharged through the outlet (620). A portion of the refrigerant can flow along the flow path hole (140H) of the cooling spacer (140). The refrigerant flowing along the flow path hole (140H) of the cooling spacer (140) can flow along the second direction.

[0123] As described above, due to expansion caused by swelling of the battery cells (110) or pressure applied in the first direction to the battery cell stack (120), it is difficult to provide sufficient space between the battery cells (110) stacked along the first direction, and the battery cells (110) or the pad member (130) may be in close contact with each other. Therefore, it is difficult for the refrigerant to flow between the battery cells (110). In this embodiment, by placing a cooling spacer (140) between the battery cells (110), a space is secured for the refrigerant to flow between the battery cells (110). As the refrigerant flows along the flow path hole (140H) of the cooling spacer (140), the cooling spacer (140) can cool the battery cells (110). Specifically, the main body portion (141) of the cooling spacer (140) can cool the battery cells (110) by contacting one side of the battery cells (110) directly or indirectly. Edge cooling of the battery cells (110) can be implemented by a refrigerant flowing along one side and the other side of the battery cell stack (120) according to the third direction described above, and surface cooling of the battery cells (110) can be implemented by a refrigerant flowing along the flow path hole (140H) of the cooling spacer (140).

[0124] The cooling spacer (140) may include an upper extension (142) and a lower extension (143) located at the upper and lower portions, respectively, of the main body portion (141). The upper extension (142) may extend from the upper portion of the main body portion (141) along a direction perpendicular to one side of the main body portion (141). The upper extension (142) may extend along a direction parallel to the first direction. Additionally, the lower extension (143) may extend from the lower portion of the main body portion (141) along a direction perpendicular to one side of the main body portion (141). The lower extension (143) may extend along a direction parallel to the first direction. The cooling spacer (140) may have an “I” shape in the cross-section cut along the xz plane.

[0125] The upper extension (142) and the lower extension (143) can transfer heat absorbed by the main body (141) from the battery cell (110) to the frame (200). The upper extension (142) and the lower extension (143), having a predetermined area, can come into direct or indirect contact with the inner surface of the frame (200). Heat generated from the battery cell (110) can move through the main body (141) to the upper extension (142) or the lower extension (143), and finally be transferred to the frame (200) and discharged to the outside of the battery assembly (100).

[0126] Additionally, the upper extension (142) and the lower extension (143) function as supports, allowing the cooling spacer (140) to be fixed inside the frame (200). Since the upper extension (142) and the lower extension (143) have a predetermined area, the cooling spacer (140) can maintain a more stable upright position.

[0127] Additionally, the upper extension (142) and the lower extension (143) may come into direct or indirect contact with the inner surface of the frame (200). The upper extension (142) may come into direct or indirect contact with the ceiling portion (204) of the frame (200). The lower extension (143) may come into direct or indirect contact with the bottom portion (203) of the frame (200). Here, indirect contact means that an adhesive or the like is interposed between them, and contact is made through the adhesive. In one embodiment, the upper extension (142) and the lower extension (143) may come into direct contact with the frame (200), and in another embodiment, the upper extension (142) and the lower extension (143) may come into indirect contact with the frame (200) through an adhesive.

[0128] FIGS. 14 to 16 are partial perspective views showing the coupling structure of a side plate in a battery assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0129] Referring together to FIGS. 1, 3, 6, 7 and FIGS. 14 through 16, some of the battery cell stacks (120) may be arranged along the second direction. For example, a first battery cell stack (120a) and a second battery cell stack (120b) may be arranged along the second direction, and a third battery cell stack (120c) and a fourth battery cell stack (120d) may be arranged along the second direction. This is an exemplary structure of the present invention, and additional battery cell stacks arranged along the second direction may be provided.

[0130] In one area, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along the first direction to form a first battery cell stack (120a), and in another area according to the second direction, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along the first direction to form a second battery cell stack (120b). Alternatively, the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b) may be arranged along the direction in which the electrode leads (111) protrude relative to the battery cells (110). Additionally, in one area, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along the first direction to form a third battery cell stack (120c), and in another area according to the second direction, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked along the first direction to form a fourth battery cell stack (120d). In other words, a third battery cell stack (120c) and a fourth battery cell stack (120d) can be arranged along the direction in which the electrode leads (111) protrude relative to the battery cell (110). By housing multiple battery cell stacks (120a, 120b, 120c, 120d) together in a frame (200), the energy density and capacity of the battery assembly (100) can be greatly increased.

[0131] As described above, the battery cell stack (120) may include busbar frames (800) located on both sides according to the second direction. Separately, at least one additional busbar frame (800) may be provided between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b). For example, one busbar frame (800) may be disposed on one side of the first battery cell stack (120a) facing the second battery cell stack (120b), and another busbar frame (800) may be disposed on one side of the second battery cell stack (120b) facing the first battery cell stack (120a). The previously described busbar (810) and measurement sensing member (720) may also be mounted on at least one busbar frame (800) located between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b).

[0132] Additionally, at least one busbar frame (800) may be provided between the third battery cell stack (120c) and the fourth battery cell stack (120d). For example, one busbar frame (800) may be placed on one side of the third battery cell stack (120c) facing the fourth battery cell stack (120d), and another busbar frame (800) may be placed on one side of the fourth battery cell stack (120d) facing the third battery cell stack (120c). The previously described busbar (810) and the measurement sensing member (720) may also be mounted on the at least one busbar frame (800) located between the third battery cell stack (120c) and the fourth battery cell stack (120d).

[0133] One side plate (300) may cover at least a portion of one side of the first battery cell stack (120a) and at least a portion of one side of the second battery cell stack (120b). For example, the second side plate (300b) may cover at least a portion of one side of the first battery cell stack (120a) and at least a portion of one side of the second battery cell stack (120b).

[0134] Another side plate (300) may cover at least a portion of one side of the third battery cell stack (120c) and at least a portion of one side of the fourth battery cell stack (120d). For example, the first side plate (300a) may cover at least a portion of one side of the third battery cell stack (120c) and at least a portion of one side of the fourth battery cell stack (120d).

[0135] By having the side plates (300) cover the battery cell stacks (120) together, the degree of bonding between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b) and the degree of bonding between the third battery cell stack (120c) and the fourth battery cell stack (120d) are strengthened, and the structural stability of the entire battery cell stack (120) can be strengthened.

[0136] The side plates (300) according to the present embodiment can be combined with busbar frames (800). There are no special restrictions on the method of combination, and physical combination methods such as bolt fastening or hook fastening may be applied. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, a first bolt (B1) can combine the side plate (300) and the busbar frame (800). The first bolt (B1) passes through the side plate (300) and is then combined with the busbar frame (800), so that the side plate (300) and the busbar frame (800) can be combined.

[0137] By combining the side plates (300) with the busbar frames (800), the entire structure of the battery cell stack (120) can be maintained stably. In the battery cell stack (120), components such as a plurality of battery cells (110), a busbar frame (800), a busbar (810), and a sensing member (700) can be arranged in a mutually combined state. By combining the side plates (300) with the busbar frames (800), the battery cell stack (120) is pressed in the +x-axis and -x-axis directions, thereby maintaining the mutual combination of the components stably. The mutually combined components can be strongly bound together by the side plates (300) as if they were a single component. As the battery cell stack (120) and the sensing member (700), etc., are stably fixed and maintained by the side plates (300), structural stability can be improved. The side plate (300) according to the present embodiment can perform the function of stably maintaining mutual coupling between the internal components of the battery cell stack (120) and the sensing member (700), etc.

[0138] In one embodiment of the present invention, as described above, a first battery cell stack (120a) and a second battery cell stack (120b) may be arranged along the second direction, and a third battery cell stack (120c) and a fourth battery cell stack (120d) may be arranged along the second direction. Any one of the side plates (300) may be coupled with at least one busbar frame (800) located between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b). Also, another of the side plates (300) may be coupled with at least one busbar frame (800) located between the third battery cell stack (120c) and the fourth battery cell stack (120d). The second side plate (300b) can be combined with at least one busbar frame (800) located between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b), and the first side plate (300a) can be combined with at least one busbar frame (800) located between the third battery cell stack (120c) and the fourth battery cell stack (120d).

[0139] There are no special restrictions on the joining method, and physical joining methods such as bolt fastening or hook fastening may be applied. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the first side plate (300) may be joined to at least one busbar frame (800) located between the third battery cell stack (120c) and the fourth battery cell stack (120d) via a second bolt (B2). The second bolt (B2) passes through the side plate (300) and is joined to the busbar frame (800), thereby joining the side plate (300) and the busbar frame (800).

[0140] When a plurality of battery cell stacks (120) are provided along a second direction, there is a concern that structural stability may be reduced because they are elongated along the second direction. In this embodiment, the side plates (300) are combined with busbar frames (800) located on both sides along the second direction, as well as with at least one busbar frame (800) located between the battery cell stacks (120), so that the structure of the entire battery cell stacks (120) can be maintained stably.

[0141] By means of the side plates (300), the entire battery cell stacks (120) can be strongly bound together as if they were a single interconnected component. As the entire battery cell stacks (120) and the sensing member (700), etc., are stably fixed and maintained by the side plates (300), structural stability can be improved. The side plates (300) according to the present embodiment can perform the function of not only protecting the sensing member (700) but also stably maintaining the structure of the entire battery cell stacks (120).

[0142] Additionally, cooling is achieved as a refrigerant circulates within the frame (200), and while the refrigerant is circulating, the battery cell stacks (120) can be fixed and maintained in their positions by the side plate (300) within the internal space of the frame (200). Even when the refrigerant circulates within the frame (200), the entire structure of the battery cell stacks (120) is fixed and bound by the side plate (300), thereby improving the structural stability of the battery assembly (100).

[0143] Meanwhile, as described above, at least one sealing plate (500) may be located at least one of the two sides according to the second direction with respect to the battery cell stack (120). At least one sealing plate (500) may be combined with the side plate (300). There are no special restrictions on the method of combination, and physical combination methods such as bolt fastening or hook fastening may be applied. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the side plate (300) may be combined with the sealing plate (500) through a third bolt (B3). The third bolt (B3) passes through the side plate (300) and is then combined with the sealing plate (500), thereby allowing the side plate (300) and the sealing plate (500) to be combined.

[0144] By combining the side plate (300) and the sealing plate (500), the structural stability of the battery assembly (100) can be improved. Additionally, since the position of the sealing plate (500) is fixed and its shape can be stably maintained, the sealing plate (500) can more strongly seal the internal space of the frame (200). This prevents the refrigerant circulating within the internal space of the frame (200) from leaking out of the frame (200).

[0146] FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing busbar frames and an insulating plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0147] Referring together to FIGS. 3, FIGS. 7, FIGS. 9, FIGS. 15 and FIGS. 17, an insulating plate (150) may be positioned between battery cell stacks (120) arranged along a second direction. The insulating plate (150) may include a material that is electrically insulating, and, for example, may include a plastic material.

[0148] For example, an insulating plate (150) may be positioned between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b). The refrigerant introduced through the inlet (610) may pass through the first battery cell stack (120a), the opening (150H) of the insulating plate (150), and the second battery cell stack (120b) in sequence.

[0149] Since both the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b) are contained within a single frame (200), there is a risk of a short circuit occurring due to contact between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b).

[0150] Additionally, the entire battery cell stack (120), including the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b), may have a shape that extends along the longitudinal direction. When the refrigerant circulates inside the frame (200), a section where the flow of the refrigerant stagnates may occur between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b).

[0151] Accordingly, in this embodiment, an insulating plate (150) having electrical insulation properties can be placed between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b). By using the insulating plate (150), electrical insulation properties and creepage distance between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b) are secured.

[0152] In addition, by designing the insulating plate (150) such that an opening (150H) through which the refrigerant passes is formed in the center of the insulating plate (150), the flow stagnation of the refrigerant is prevented in the space between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b). That is, the cooling performance is enhanced by ensuring the flowability of the refrigerant.

[0153] Meanwhile, the insulating plate (150) can be joined to the busbar frames (800). There are no special restrictions on the joining method, and physical joining methods such as hook fastening or bolt fastening may be applied. For example, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 17, a fourth bolt (B4) can join the insulating plate (150) and the busbar frame (800). The insulating plate (150) and the busbar frame (800) can be joined by the fourth bolt (B4) passing through the protruding part of the insulating plate (150) and then joining to the busbar frame (800).

[0154] Meanwhile, an insulating plate (150) may also be located between the third battery cell stack (120c) and the fourth battery cell stack (120d). This insulating plate (150) may have a structure identical or similar to that of the insulating plate (150) located between the first battery cell stack (120a) and the second battery cell stack (120b).

[0156] FIG. 18 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of a battery cell stack according to an embodiment of the present invention in which a terminal assembly is connected. FIG. 19 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged portion of a battery cell stack according to an embodiment of the present invention in which a connecting busbar is located. FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a terminal assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the terminal assembly of FIG. 20.

[0157] Referring together to FIG. 1 and FIG. 18 to FIG. 21, a battery assembly (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a terminal assembly (900) for guiding a High Voltage (HV) connection of the battery assembly (100). The terminal assembly (900) may be connected to another battery assembly, a Battery Disconnect Unit (BDU), or an electrical component outside the battery assembly (100), and may guide the electrical connection of the battery assembly (100).

[0158] Although the terminal assembly (900) is depicted as being located on one side of the battery assembly (100), this is merely an example, and there are no specific limitations on the terminal assembly (900) in the battery assembly (100). The terminal assembly (900) may include an HV terminal (910), a mold (920), a bolt member (930), and a nut member (940).

[0159] The HV terminal (910) may be electrically connected to the electrode leads (111) of the battery cells (110) or the connecting busbar (820), and a portion may be exposed to the outside of the battery assembly (100). The HV terminal (910) may include an electrically conductive material and may be electrically connected to another battery assembly, a battery disconnect unit (BDU), or an electrical component.

[0160] In addition to the busbar (810), the busbar frame (800) may be provided with a connecting busbar (820). Similar to the busbar (810), some of the electrode leads (111) of the battery cells (110) may be electrically connected to the connecting busbar (820). As one example, as shown in FIG. 19, the connecting busbar (820) may have a portion extending to the side of the busbar frame (800). An HV terminal (910) may be electrically connected to this connecting busbar (820). The HV terminal (910) may be electrically connected to the portion of the connecting busbar (820) that extends to the side of the busbar frame (800).

[0161] The mold (920) can cover a portion of the outer surface of the HV terminal (910). The mold (920) may include an electrically insulating material and can prevent a short circuit from occurring in the HV terminal (910), etc.

[0162] The bolt member (930) and the nut member (940) may be structures that assist in the electrical connection between the HV terminal (910) and the connecting busbar (820). One end of the bolt member (930) may be connected to the HV terminal (910) by the nut member (940). The HV terminal (910) may come into contact with the bolt member (930) while being secured between the bolt member (930) and the nut member (940). The other end of the bolt member (930) may be connected to the connecting busbar (820). The other end of the bolt member (930) may be connected to a portion of the connecting busbar (820) that extends to the side of the busbar frame (800). In this manner, the bolt member (930) may guide the electrical connection between the HV terminal (910) and the connecting busbar (820).

[0163] In this embodiment, terms indicating directions such as front, back, left, right, up, and down have been used; however, these terms are for convenience of explanation only and may vary depending on the location of the object or the position of the observer.

[0164] One or more battery assemblies according to the embodiment described above can be mounted together with various control and protection systems, such as a Battery Management System (BMS), a Battery Disconnect Unit (BDU), and a cooling system, to form a battery pack.

[0165] The above battery assembly or battery pack can be applied to various devices. Specifically, it can be applied to means of transportation such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrids, or to Energy Storage Systems (ESS), but is not limited thereto and can be applied to various devices capable of using secondary batteries.

[0166] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention as defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0167] 100: Battery assembly 110: Battery cell 120, 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d: Battery cell stack 200: Frame 300: Side plate 400: Separation plate 500: Sealing plate 610: Inlet 620: Outlet 700: No sensing

Claims

Claim 1 A battery assembly comprising: battery cell stacks including a plurality of battery cells; a frame in which the battery cell stacks are housed; and an inlet and an outlet for circulating a refrigerant into the interior of the frame; wherein at least some of the battery cell stacks are arranged along a first direction, and a separating plate is positioned within the frame extending along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the separating plate is positioned between the battery cell stacks arranged along the first direction. Claim 2 A battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein the battery cells in the battery cell stack are stacked along the first direction. Claim 3 A battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein at least one sealing plate is located at least one of the two sides according to the second direction with respect to the battery cell stacks. Claim 4 A battery assembly in which the inlet and the outlet are provided on at least one sealing plate in paragraph 3. Claim 5 A battery assembly in which the separation plate is combined with at least one sealing plate in paragraph 3. Claim 6 A battery assembly having a sealing member located between the separation plate and the sealing plate in paragraph 3. Claim 7 A battery assembly according to paragraph 3, wherein side plates are disposed on each of one side and the other side of the battery cell stacks according to the first direction, and at least one sealing plate is coupled to the side plate. Claim 8 In paragraph 3, side plates are disposed on each of one side and the other side of the battery cell stacks according to the first direction, and the battery cell stack includes busbar frames on which a busbar connected to the electrode leads of the battery cells is mounted, and the side plates are coupled to the busbar frames to form a battery assembly. Claim 9 In claim 1, the refrigerant flows through the battery assembly, in contact with each of the battery cell stacks in turn by means of the separation plate. Claim 10 A battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein a first space located on one side of the separation plate and a second space located on the other side of the separation plate are provided within the frame, and the refrigerant introduced through the inlet flows sequentially through the first space and the second space. Claim 11 A battery assembly according to claim 10, wherein the inlet is in communication with the first space and the outlet is in communication with the second space. Claim 12 A battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein some of the battery cell stacks are arranged along the second direction. Claim 13 A battery assembly according to claim 1; and a pack cross beam located on one side according to the first direction of the battery assembly; wherein the battery assembly is a battery pack mounted and fixed to the pack cross beam. Claim 14 A battery pack in which the battery assemblies are provided in plurality, and at least some of the plurality of battery assemblies are arranged along the first direction.

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