Battery module and method for manufacturing the same

Abstract

A battery module includes a plurality of battery cells arranged to overlap each other in a thickness direction, a battery case for accommodating the battery cells and having a structure including an open lower end, and a heat dissipation member including a cover plate coupled to a lower portion of the battery case to support the battery cells, and a heat sink provided on a surface of the cover plate supporting the battery cells and dissipating heat that can be generated by the battery cells, wherein the heat sink includes a plurality of columns of first heat transfer materials arranged on the surface of the cover plate in a longitudinal direction of the battery cells, and the first heat transfer materials are arranged such that a pitch between the first heat transfer materials narrows from a center of the battery cells to opposite ends to increase heat dissipation from the center of the battery cells to the opposite ends.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0070472, filed on June 10, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a battery module and a method for manufacturing the battery module. More specifically, this invention relates to a battery module in which the heat dissipation performance of individual battery cells is improved and the temperature deviation is reduced, and a method for manufacturing the battery module. Background Technology

[0004] Generally, unlike non-rechargeable primary batteries, secondary batteries are rechargeable and dischargeable. Secondary batteries are widely used in mobile phones, laptops and portable camcorders, power storage devices, electric vehicles, and more.

[0005] These secondary batteries are divided into can-type secondary batteries in which the electrode assembly is built into a metal can, and bag-type secondary batteries in which the electrode assembly is built into a bag. The bag-type secondary battery includes an electrode assembly with electrodes and separators stacked alternately, and a bag that houses the electrode assembly.

[0006] With the depletion of fossil fuels and increasing concerns about environmental pollution, research on hybrid and electric vehicles has been actively conducted in recent years, and battery packs are installed in both hybrid and electric vehicles.

[0007] The battery pack includes a battery module comprising multiple battery cells connected in series or in parallel to increase capacity and output.

[0008] However, as capacity and output increase, the aforementioned battery modules generate more heat. Therefore, if the heat generated from the battery modules is not properly dissipated to the outside, the battery modules may deteriorate, catch fire, or explode. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] The present invention has been invented to solve the above-mentioned problems, and according to the present invention, the heat dissipation structure of the battery module can be improved to smoothly dissipate the heat generated in the battery module to the outside, thereby improving the heat dissipation performance of the battery module. In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a battery module capable of reducing the temperature deviation of the entire battery module and a method for manufacturing the battery module.

[0011] Technical solutions

[0012] A battery module according to the present application for achieving the above object includes a plurality of battery cells arranged to overlap each other in a thickness direction of the plurality of battery cells; a battery case configured to accommodate the battery cells and having a lower portion open structure; and a heat dissipation member including a cover plate coupled to a lower portion of the battery case to support the battery cells, and a heat sink provided on one surface of the cover plate supporting the battery cells to dissipate heat generated in the battery cells, wherein the heat sink includes a first heat transfer material arranged in a plurality of columns along a longitudinal direction of the battery cells on one surface of the cover plate, and the first heat transfer material is arranged such that a pitch between the first heat transfer materials gradually narrows from a center to both ends of the battery cells to gradually improve a heat dissipation performance from the center to both ends of the battery cells.

[0013] One surface of the cover plate can include first accommodation surfaces divided at both ends in the thickness direction of the battery cells, and second accommodation surfaces divided between the first accommodation surfaces, wherein the first and second accommodation surfaces extend in the longitudinal direction of the battery cells, and the first heat transfer material can be provided on the first accommodation surfaces.

[0014] Among the first heat transfer materials arranged on the first accommodation surfaces, the first heat transfer material having the narrowest pitch therebetween can have a pitch greater than a thickness of the first heat transfer material.

[0015] The heat sink can further include a plurality of second heat transfer materials arranged on the second accommodation surfaces along a width direction of the battery cells, and the second heat transfer materials can be arranged on the second accommodation surfaces at the same pitch.

[0016] The plurality of second heat transfer materials arranged on the second accommodation surfaces can be spaced apart from each other so as not to be connected to each other, and can be spaced apart from the first heat transfer materials arranged on the first accommodation surfaces so as not to be connected to the first heat transfer materials.

[0017] A pair of heat dissipation pads can be respectively provided on both ends of an inner surface of the battery case, the pair of heat dissipation pads reducing a temperature deviation between a center and both ends of the battery cells by releasing heat generated at both ends of the battery cells.

[0018] A trimming pad can be provided between the pair of heat dissipation pads on the inner surface of the battery case, the trimming pad trimming a space between the pair of heat dissipation pads.

[0019] The first heat transfer material arranged at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell can have a "C" shape with end portions facing the outside of the battery cell.

[0020] One surface of the cover plate can include first accommodation surfaces divided at both ends in the thickness direction of the battery cell, and second accommodation surfaces divided between the first accommodation surfaces, wherein the first and second accommodation surfaces extend in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell, the first heat transfer material can have a structure in which the first heat transfer material is connected in a concave-convex shape from one end to the other end of the first accommodation surfaces, and the heat sink can further include second heat transfer materials provided on the second accommodation surfaces in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell and connected to the other end of each first heat transfer material.

[0021] The method for manufacturing a battery module according to the present application includes an arrangement step of arranging a plurality of battery cells to overlap each other in a thickness direction, an accommodation step of accommodating the overlapped plurality of battery cells in a battery case whose lower portion is open, a preparation step of preparing a heat dissipation member including a cover plate and a heat sink provided on one surface of the cover plate supporting the battery cells, and a coupling step of coupling the cover plate of the heat dissipation member to the lower portion of the battery case, wherein the preparation step includes a first application process of applying first heat transfer materials in a plurality of columns arranged in a row on one surface of the cover plate in a longitudinal direction of the battery cells, wherein the first heat transfer materials are arranged such that a pitch between the first heat transfer materials gradually narrows from the center of the battery cells to both ends.

[0022] The preparation step can include a division process of dividing first accommodation surfaces at both ends in the thickness direction of the battery cells on one surface of the cover plate, and dividing second accommodation surfaces between the first accommodation surfaces, before the first application process, and in the first application process, the first heat transfer materials can be applied on the first accommodation surfaces.

[0023] The preparation step can further include a second application process of applying a plurality of second heat transfer materials to be arranged on the second accommodation surfaces in a width direction of the battery cells, after the first application process.

[0024] In the second application process, the plurality of second heat transfer materials can be applied not to be connected to each other and not to be connected to the first heat transfer materials arranged on the first accommodation surfaces.

[0025] The accommodating step can further include a process of attaching a heat dissipation pad to both ends of the inner surface of the battery case corresponding to both ends of the battery cell, respectively.

[0026] The accommodating step can further include a process of attaching a trimming pad to the inner surface of the battery case between the heat dissipation pads.

[0027] Advantageous effects

[0028] A battery module according to the present application can include a plurality of battery cells, a battery case, and a heat dissipation member including a cover plate and a heat dissipation body. The heat dissipation body can include a first heat transfer material having a structure arranged in a plurality of columns on one surface of the cover plate in a longitudinal direction of the battery cell. Due to the above-described characteristics, heat generated in the battery cell can be smoothly released by the first heat transfer material arranged in a plurality of columns, and thus, temperature increase of the battery module can be significantly suppressed.

[0029] In particular, the first heat transfer material can be arranged such that a pitch between the first heat transfer materials gradually narrows from a center of the battery cell toward both ends. Due to the above-described characteristics, heat dissipation performance can be gradually improved from the center of the battery cell toward both ends, and thus, temperature deviation from the center of the battery cell toward both ends can be reduced to improve performance of the battery module.

[0030] Further, in the battery module according to the present application, the cover plate can include a first accommodation surface and a second accommodation surface, and the first heat transfer material can be disposed on the first accommodation surface disposed at each of both ends of the cover plate. Due to the above-described characteristics, heat dissipation performance of the battery cell arranged at the end portion of the battery case can be improved.

[0031] Further, in the battery module according to the present application, the heat dissipation body can further include a second heat transfer material having a structure arranged in a plurality of columns on a second accommodation surface in a width direction of the battery cell. Due to the above-described characteristics, heat generated in the battery cell arranged at the center among the plurality of battery cells can be smoothly released to the outside to reduce temperature deviation of the plurality of battery cells.

[0032] In particular, the plurality of second heat transfer materials can have a structure in which the second heat transfer materials are arranged on the second accommodation surface at the same pitch. Due to the above-described characteristics, two or more battery cells arranged at the center among the plurality of battery cells can have uniform heat dissipation performance, and thus, temperature deviation of the battery cells can be significantly reduced.

[0033] Further, in the battery module according to the present application, the first heat transfer materials arranged on the first receiving surface can be spaced apart from each other without being connected to each other, and can also not be connected to the first heat transfer materials arranged on the first receiving surface before the battery cells are supported. Also, after the battery cells are supported, the plurality of second heat transfer materials and the plurality of first heat transfer materials can be connected to each other while being stretched. Due to the above-described characteristics, heat generated in the battery cells can be released to the outside through the first heat transfer materials and the second heat transfer materials, and thus, temperature deviation of the entire battery cells can be reduced.

[0034] Further, in the battery module according to the present application, the first heat transfer materials arranged on the first receiving surface can be spaced apart from each other without being connected to each other, and can also not be connected to the first heat transfer materials arranged on the first receiving surface before the battery cells are supported. Also, after the battery cells are supported, the plurality of second heat transfer materials and the plurality of first heat transfer materials can be connected to each other while being stretched. Due to the above-described characteristics, heat generated in the battery cells can be released to the outside through the first heat transfer materials and the second heat transfer materials, and thus, temperature deviation of the entire battery cells can be reduced.

[0035] Further, in the battery module according to the present application, a pair of heat dissipation pads can be respectively provided at both ends of the inner surface of the battery case, and the pair of heat dissipation pads can reduce temperature deviation between the center and both ends of the battery cells by releasing heat generated at both ends of the battery cells. Due to the above-described characteristics, heat dissipation performance at both ends of the upper portion of the battery cells can be significantly improved, and thus, temperature deviation of the entire battery cells can be significantly reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to a first embodiment of the present application.

[0037] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 1

[0038] Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating a heat dissipation member of a battery module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0039] Figure 4 is a plan view of Figure 3

[0040] Figure 5 is a side cross-sectional view of a heat dissipation body before battery cells are supported in a heat dissipation member of a battery module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0041] Figure 6 is a front cross-sectional view of a heat dissipation body after battery cells are supported in a heat dissipation member of a battery module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0042] ​​Figure 7 is a perspective view of a heat dissipation pad and a trimming pad in a battery module according to a first embodiment of the present application.

[0043] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a battery module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0044] Figures 9 to 20 is a flowchart showing a preparation step of a method for manufacturing a battery module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0045] Figure 21 is a plan view showing a heat dissipation member of a battery module according to a second embodiment of the present application.

[0046] Figure 22 is a plan view showing a heat dissipation member of a battery module according to a third embodiment of the present application.

[0047] Figure 23 and Figure 24 is a view of an experimental example, in which, Figure 23 is a thermograph of a battery cell according to a comparative example, and Figure 24 is a thermograph of a battery cell according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings such that the technical idea of the present application can be easily implemented by those skilled in the art to which the present application pertains. The present application may, however, be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. In the drawings, any content unnecessary for describing the present application will be omitted for the sake of clarity, and like reference numerals in the drawings denote like elements.

[0049] [Battery module according to first embodiment of the present application]

[0050] As Figures 1 to 7 shown, a battery module 100 according to a first embodiment of the present application has a structure that improves heat dissipation performance of battery cells and reduces temperature deviation of the battery cells, and includes a plurality of battery cells 110 arranged to overlap each other in a thickness direction thereof, a battery case 120 that accommodates the battery cells 110 and has a structure with a lower portion open, and a heat dissipation member 130 coupled to a lower portion of the battery case 120 to release heat generated in the plurality of battery cells 110 accommodated in the battery case 120 to the outside.

[0051] In this regard, in the battery module 100 according to the first embodiment of the present application, as one embodiment, the heat dissipation member is coupled to a lower portion of the battery case, but the heat dissipation member can be provided on an upper portion, a side portion, a front portion, or a rear portion of the battery case according to the application of the product.

[0052] Battery cell

[0053] The battery cell 110 includes an electrode assembly, an electrode lead coupled to the electrode assembly, and a pouch case accommodating the electrode assembly in a state in which the electrode lead is pulled out at a front end thereof.

[0054] The battery cell 110 having the above-described configuration is provided in a plurality, the battery cells 110 are arranged to overlap each other in a thickness direction, and the plurality of battery cells 110 arranged in the thickness direction have a structure connected in series or in parallel.

[0055] Battery case

[0056] The battery case 120 is configured to accommodate a plurality of battery cells, and has a rectangular box shape in which an opening is formed in a lower portion thereof. The plurality of battery cells 110 overlapping each other are accommodated in the battery case 120 through the opening.

[0057] Each of the battery cells 110 is accommodated in the battery case 120 in a state in which an end of the electrode lead facing a longitudinal direction of the battery case 120 is upright.

[0058] Heat dissipation member

[0059] The heat dissipation member 130 includes a cover plate 131 supporting the battery cell 110 accommodated in the battery case 120, and a heat sink 132 releasing heat generated in the battery cell 110 to the outside.

[0060] The cover plate 131 can be coupled to a lower portion of the battery case 120 to form a lower portion of the battery case 120 and also support a lower portion of the battery cell 110 accommodated in the battery case 120 to prevent the battery cell 110 from being pulled out to the outside.

[0061] In particular, the cover plate 131 is made of a heat dissipation material capable of smoothly releasing heat of the battery cell transferred from the heat sink.

[0062] In this regard, one surface of the cover plate 131 supporting the battery cell 110 (when viewed in a direction in which the battery cell 110 is pulled out to the outside) is formed to be inclined with respect to a horizontal plane. Figure 2The cover plate 131, which is observed as a top surface when viewed in a plan view, includes first accommodation surfaces 131a, which are divided at both ends in a thickness direction of the battery cell 110 (when viewed in a Figure 3 vertical direction), and second accommodation surfaces 131b, which are divided between the first accommodation surfaces 131a, and each of the first accommodation surfaces 131a and the second accommodation surfaces 131b extends in a longitudinal direction of the battery cell (when viewed in a Figure 4 left-right direction).

[0063] An interface 131c can also be provided between the first accommodation surfaces 131a and the second accommodation surfaces 131b, and the interface 131c functions to space the first accommodation surfaces 131a and the second accommodation surfaces 131b apart from each other so as not to be connected to each other. Here, a width of the interface 131c is formed to be smaller than a thickness of a heat transfer material provided on each of the first accommodation surfaces 131a and the second accommodation surfaces 131b. That is, if the thickness of the heat transfer material is 2 mm, the width of the interface is formed to be 1 mm.

[0064] The heat sink 132 is provided on one surface of the cover plate 131 supporting the battery cell 110 to absorb heat generated in the battery cell 110, thereby releasing heat to the outside. Accordingly, heat of the battery cell 110 can be effectively dissipated.

[0065] In particular, the heat sink 132 includes first heat transfer materials 132a having a structure arranged in a plurality of columns along a longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110 (when viewed in a Figure 4 left-right direction) on one surface of the cover plate 131. That is, the first heat transfer materials 132a provided in the plurality of columns have an arrangement structure such as a stepped bridge along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110 on one surface of the cover plate 131.

[0066] The first heat transfer materials 132a can be provided to contact a thermal interface material (TIM) and have an adhesive property. In particular, at least one of a heat sink grease, a heat conductive adhesive, or a phase change material can be used as the first heat transfer materials 132a.

[0067] In the battery cell 110, relatively high heat having a relatively high temperature is generated at both ends of the battery cell 110, rather than a central portion, due to high resistance of an electrode lead. As described above, the present application has an arrangement structure of the first heat transfer materials 132a for reducing a temperature deviation of the battery cell 110.

[0068] That is, the first heat transfer material 132a has a structure in which the first heat transfer material 132a is arranged such that the interval therebetween gradually narrows from the central portion (a point bisecting the battery cell in the longitudinal direction) toward the two ends (both end points in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell). Therefore, more of the first heat transfer material 132a is arranged at the two ends of the battery cell where high-temperature heat is generated, to significantly improve the heat dissipation performance, and less of the first heat transfer material 132a is arranged at the central portion of the battery cell where low-temperature heat is generated, to slightly improve the heat dissipation performance. Therefore, since the heat dissipation performance differs between the central portion and the two ends of the battery cell, the temperature deviation can be significantly reduced.

[0069] In particular, the first heat transfer material 132a can be provided on the first receiving surface 131a, and thus, the temperature increase of the battery cell 110 arranged outside the battery case in the width direction can be effectively prevented.

[0070] In the first heat transfer material 132a arranged on the first receiving surface 131a, the interval between the first heat transfer materials 132a having the narrowest interval therebetween is greater than the thickness of the first heat transfer material 132a. Therefore, even if a portion of the first heat transfer material 132a is stretched while being pressed by the weight of the battery cell 110, the first heat transfer materials 132a can be prevented from being connected to each other. As a result, the heat dissipation performance can be deviated from the center to the two ends of the first heat transfer material 132a, to effectively reduce the temperature deviation of the entire battery cell 110.

[0071] The heat sink 132 further includes a second heat transfer material 132b for dissipating heat from the battery cell 110 arranged in the middle in the width direction of the battery case 120. Here, the second heat transfer material 132b is made of the same material as the first heat transfer material 132a.

[0072] That is, the second heat transfer material 132b has a structure in which a plurality of second heat transfer materials 132b are arranged on the second receiving surface 131b in the width direction of the battery cell 110 (vertical direction of the battery case 120), and the plurality of second heat transfer materials 132b arranged in multiple are arranged to have a long linear shape connected to each other in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110. Therefore, the second heat transfer material 132b can effectively absorb heat generated in the battery cell 110 arranged in the middle in the width direction of the battery case 120. As a result, the heat dissipation performance of the battery cell 110 arranged at the center of the battery case 120 can be significantly improved. Figure 4

[0073] Referring to​Figure 5 The plurality of second heat transfer materials 132b disposed on the second receiving surface 131b are spaced apart from each other so as not to be connected to each other. Also, the second heat transfer materials 132b are spaced apart from the first heat transfer materials 132a disposed on the first receiving surface 131a so as not to be connected to each other. However, each of the spacing between the second heat transfer materials 132b and the spacing between the second heat transfer materials 132b and the first heat transfer materials 132a is formed to be smaller than the thickness of the second heat transfer materials 132b. Accordingly, with reference to Figure 6 When a portion of the second heat transfer materials 132b is stretched while being pressed by the battery cells 110, the second heat transfer materials 132b spaced apart from each other and the second heat transfer materials 132b and the first heat transfer materials 132a spaced apart from each other are connected to each other. As a result, the heat generated in the battery cells can be released to the outside through the entire first heat transfer materials and second heat transfer materials.

[0074] The battery module 100 according to the first embodiment of the present application having the above configuration includes the heat dissipation member 130 provided with the cover plate 131 and the heat sink 132 to smoothly dissipate the heat generated in the plurality of battery cells 110 received in the battery case 120. In particular, the temperature deviation from the center to the end of the battery can be reduced to prevent the performance deterioration of the battery cells.

[0075] The battery module 100 according to the first embodiment of the present application further includes a heat dissipation pad 140.

[0076] Heat dissipation pad

[0077] The heat dissipation pad 140 is configured to reduce the temperature deviation between the upper central portion and both ends of the battery cells.

[0078] That is, because the electrode lead is connected, the temperature of the heat generated at both ends of the battery cells is higher than the temperature of the center of the battery cells, and thus the heat dissipation pad 140 can be further provided to reduce the temperature deviation between the center and both ends of the top surface of the battery cells.

[0079] The heat dissipation pad 140 is attached to each of both sides of the inner surface of the battery case 120, and both ends of the top surface of the battery cells 110 received in the battery case 120 are supported to release heat through both ends of the top surface of the battery cells 110. Accordingly, by increasing the heat dissipation performance at both ends of the battery cells, the temperature deviation between the center and both ends of the battery cells can be significantly reduced.

[0080] The trimming pad 150 can be further provided to constantly maintain the interval between the heat dissipation pads 140 attached to both sides of the inner surface of the battery case 120, respectively.

[0081] Trimming pad

[0082] The trimming pad 150 is attached to the inner surface of the battery case 120 and is positioned between a pair of heat dissipation pads 140 to constantly maintain the interval between the pair of heat dissipation pads 140. In particular, the trimming pad 150 can trim the space between the pair of heat dissipation pads 140 to prevent the battery cell 110 from being deformed due to the battery cell 110 being inserted into the space between the pair of heat dissipation pads 140.

[0083] Hereinafter, a method for manufacturing the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present application will be described.

[0084] [Method for manufacturing battery module according to first embodiment of the present application]

[0085] As shown in FIG. 1, the method for manufacturing the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present application includes a disposing step, a housing step, a preparing step, and a coupling step. Figures 8 to 20

[0086] Arranging step

[0087] In the disposing step, a plurality of battery cells 110 are prepared, the prepared plurality of battery cells 110 are disposed to overlap each other in a thickness direction, and the plurality of battery cells 110 disposed to overlap each other are connected in series or in parallel to each other to contact each other.

[0088] Containing step

[0089] In the housing step, the plurality of battery cells 110 overlapping each other are housed in the battery case 120 having an open lower portion. Here, each of the battery cells 110 is housed in a state in which an electrode lead is facing one end in a longitudinal direction of the battery case 120 and is standing.

[0090] The housing step further includes a step of attaching the heat dissipation pads 140 to both ends of the inner surface of the battery case 120, the both ends of the inner surface of the battery case 120 respectively corresponding to both ends of the top surface of the battery cell 110, and the heat dissipation pads 140 improving heat dissipation performance at the both ends of the top surface of the battery cell 110.

[0091] ​Furthermore, the receiving step also includes attaching the trimming pad 150 to the inner surface of the battery case 120 between the heat dissipation pads 140, and the trimming pad 150 constantly maintains the spacing between the pair of heat dissipation pads 140 to trim the space between the pair of heat dissipation pads 140.

[0092] Preparation step

[0093] In the preparation step, a heat dissipation component is prepared, which includes: a cover plate 131, the size and shape of which correspond to the open lower part of the battery case 120; and a heat sink 132, which is disposed on a surface of the cover plate 131 that supports the battery cell 110.

[0094] That is, the preparation steps include a dividing process, a first application process for preparing a first heat transfer material, and a second application process for preparing a second heat transfer material.

[0095] In the aforementioned dividing process, such as Figure 9 As shown, a first receiving surface 131a is defined at both ends of the battery cell 110 on one surface of the cover plate 131, and a second receiving surface 131b is defined between the first receiving surfaces 131a. Here, an interface 131c is defined between the first receiving surface 131a and the second receiving surface 131b, such that the first receiving surface 131a and the second receiving surface 131b are spaced apart from each other.

[0096] Perform the first application step to prepare the first heat transfer material, and apply the first heat transfer solution to the first containment surface 131a to prepare the first heat transfer material.

[0097] For example, in the first application step, a plurality of nozzles 10 are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the cover plate 131 on one side of a surface of the cover plate 131 (when in Figure 9 (When viewed from the rear side of the cover plate). Here, the plurality of nozzles 10 are arranged such that the spacing between the nozzles 10 gradually narrows from the center to both ends along the longitudinal direction of the cover plate 131. In particular, in the first application step, the spacing between the plurality of nozzles 10 is adjusted such that the heat transfer material is applied to the first receiving surface and the second receiving surface in two stages.

[0098] When each nozzle 10 is arranged as described above, such as Figure 10 As shown, the nozzle 10 moves in the width direction of the cover plate 131, while the first heat transfer solution is applied to the first receiving surface 131a. Furthermore, as... Figure 11As shown, the nozzle 10 is arranged on one side of the next first receiving surface 131a, and then, as Figure 12 As shown, the nozzle 10 moves in the width direction of the cover plate 131 while the first heat transfer solution is applied to the first receiving surface 131a. Then, the first heat transfer solution applied to the first receiving surface 131a is solidified to obtain the first heat transfer material 132a.

[0099] Similarly, as Figure 13 As shown, the nozzle 10 is arranged between the first heat transfer material 132a that is cured on the first receiving surface 131a, and then, as Figures 14 to 16 As shown, the first heat transfer solution is applied to the first receiving surface 131a. Then, the first heat transfer solution applied to the first receiving surface 131a is solidified to obtain the first heat transfer material 132a. When the above operations are completed, the first application process is finished.

[0100] A second application step is performed to prepare the second heat transfer material, and the second heat transfer material is prepared such that a plurality of second heat transfer materials are arranged in the width direction of the battery cell 110.

[0101] For example, in the second application step, the cover plate 131 on which the first heat transfer material 132a is prepared is rotated 90° relative to the nozzle 10 to adjust the position of the cover plate 131. Then, two nozzles 10 are arranged on the second receiving surface 131b. Here, four second heat transfer materials 132b are prepared on the second receiving surface. After two second heat transfer materials 132b are prepared first, two more second heat transfer materials 132b are prepared.

[0102] That is, such as Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, two nozzles 10 move in the longitudinal direction of the cover plate 131, while a second heat transfer solution is applied to the second receiving surface 131b. Then, as... Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, two nozzles 10 are positioned between the first applied second heat transfer solution and then moved in the longitudinal direction of the cover plate 131 while the second heat transfer solution is applied to the second receiving surface 131b. Then, while the second heat transfer solution is solidifying, the second heat transfer material 132b can be prepared. When the above operations are completed, the second application step is finished.

[0103] In the second application step, the plurality of second heat transfer materials 132b are not connected to each other, and are also applied so as not to be connected to the first heat transfer material 132a arranged on the first receiving surface 131a.

[0104] When the above process is completed, the finished heat dissipation component 130 can be obtained.

[0105] Coupling step

[0106] In the connection step, a cover plate 131 on which the heat dissipation member 130 is fabricated is connected to the lower part of the battery case 120. Then, the lower part of the battery cell 110 housed in the battery case 120 is supported by a first heat transfer material 132a and a second heat transfer material 132b disposed on the cover plate 131.

[0107] Here, the first heat transfer material 132a and the second heat transfer material 132b are stretched while being compressed by the weight of the battery cell 110, thereby increasing the adhesion between the battery cell 110 and the first heat transfer material 132a and the second heat transfer material 132b.

[0108] Specifically, as the second heat transfer material 132b is stretched, the four second heat transfer materials are connected to each other, thus enabling them to have uniform heat dissipation performance. As a result, the heat dissipation performance of the battery cell supported by the four second heat transfer materials can be improved, reducing temperature deviation. Furthermore, since the first heat transfer materials are arranged such that the spacing between them gradually narrows from the center to both ends of the battery cell, the temperature difference between the center and both ends of the battery cell can be significantly reduced.

[0109] Therefore, when the method for manufacturing a battery module according to the first embodiment of the present invention is completed, a finished battery module can be manufactured.

[0110] In the following description of another embodiment of the invention, parts having the same function as those in the above embodiment are given the same reference numerals in the drawings, and therefore repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0111] [Battery module according to a second embodiment of the present invention]

[0112] like Figure 21 As shown, the battery module 100 according to a second embodiment of the present invention includes a first heat transfer material 132a, which has a structure such that it extends along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110 on one surface of the cover plate 131 (when in...). Figure 21 When viewed from the left and right sides, they are arranged in multiple columns.

[0113] Here, the first heat transfer material 132a has such an arrangement that the spacing between the first heat transfer materials 132a gradually narrows from the center of the battery cell 110 toward both ends.

[0114] Specifically, each of the first heat transfer materials 132a arranged at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110 has a “C” shape, with the ends of the “C” shape facing the outside of the battery cell 110.

[0115] Therefore, in the battery module 100 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the area of ​​each of the first heat transfer materials 132a arranged at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110 can be increased, resulting in a significant improvement in the heat dissipation performance of the battery cell 110 at its ends. This can significantly reduce the temperature deviation between the center and both ends of the battery cell.

[0116] [Battery module according to a third embodiment of the present invention]

[0117] like Figure 22 As shown, the battery module 100 according to the third embodiment of the present invention includes a heat dissipation component 130, which is provided with a cover plate 131 and a heat sink 132.

[0118] The cover plate 131 includes: a first receiving surface 131a, which is divided at both ends on one surface of the cover plate 131 along the thickness direction of the battery cell 110; and a second receiving surface 131b, which is disposed between the first receiving surfaces 131a. Here, the first receiving surface 131a and the second receiving surface 131b are divided to extend in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110.

[0119] The heat sink includes a first heat transfer material 132a and a second heat transfer material 132b. The first heat transfer material 132a has a structure in which it is connected in a concave-convex shape from one end of the first receiving surface to the other end, and the second heat transfer material is disposed on the second receiving surface 131b along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110 and is connected to the other end of the first heat transfer material 132a.

[0120] Therefore, the battery module 100 according to the third embodiment of the present invention can effectively dissipate the heat generated in the entire battery cell by connecting the entire first heat transfer material and the second heat transfer material to each other, thereby reducing the temperature deviation of the battery cell.

[0121] [Experimental Example]

[0122] Comparative example

[0123] In the comparative example, a battery module was fabricated, comprising a plurality of battery cells, a battery casing, and a heat dissipation component. Here, the heat dissipation component includes a cover plate and a heat transfer material disposed on the cover plate. The heat transfer material has a structure in which the heat transfer material is arranged at equal intervals from one side of the battery cells to the other.

[0124] Manufacturing example

[0125] In one manufacturing example, a battery module is prepared, comprising multiple battery cells, a battery casing, and a heat dissipation component. Here, the heat dissipation component includes a cover plate and a first heat transfer material and a second heat transfer material disposed on the cover plate. The first heat transfer material has an arrangement in which the spacing between the first heat transfer materials gradually narrows from the center of the battery cell towards both ends.

[0126] That is, in the manufacturing example, the battery module has the same structure as the battery module according to the first embodiment of this application.

[0127] Same conditions

[0128] In the comparative and manufacturing examples, charging and discharging were performed under the same environment and the same voltage, and a thermal imager was used to image the construction according to the comparative and manufacturing examples during charging and discharging.

[0129] Imaging results

[0130] refer to Figure 23 In the comparative example, it can be seen that the temperature is higher at each of the two ends of the battery cell. In particular, it can be confirmed that there is a temperature difference between the center and the two ends of the battery cell.

[0131] refer to Figure 24 In the manufacturing example, it can be seen that no significant temperature deviation occurs between the center and both ends of the battery cell. That is, it is confirmed that the overall temperature of the battery cell is lower than the temperature in the comparative example, and the maximum value of the temperature deviation between two points in the battery cell (i.e., the center side and the outer side) is small. It can be seen that the temperature deviation between the center and the ends of the battery cell is significantly reduced.

[0132] Therefore, the scope of this invention is defined by the appended claims, and not by the foregoing description and the exemplary embodiments described therein. Various modifications made within the meaning equivalent to the claims of this invention, and within the scope of the claims themselves, should be considered within the scope of this invention.

[0133] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0134] 100: Battery Module

[0135] 110: Battery cell

[0136] 120: Battery casing

[0137] 130: Heat dissipation components

[0138] 131: Cover plate

[0139] 131a: First receiving surface

[0140] 131b: Second receiving surface

[0141] 132: Heat sink

[0142] 132a: First heat transfer material

[0143] 132b: Second heat transfer material

[0144] 140: Thermal pad

[0145] 150: Adjustment pad

Claims

1. A battery module, comprising: Multiple battery cells are arranged to overlap each other in their thickness direction, each battery cell including an electrode lead connected such that the temperature of heat generated at both ends of the battery cell is higher than the temperature at the center of the battery cell. A battery case, the battery case being configured to house the battery cell and having an open bottom structure; as well as Heat dissipation component, the heat dissipation component comprising: A cover plate, the cover plate being attached to the lower part of the battery housing to support the battery cell; and A heat sink is disposed on one surface of the cover plate that supports the battery cell, in order to dissipate the heat generated in the battery cell. The heat sink includes a first heat transfer material, which is arranged in multiple rows along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell on one surface of the cover plate. The first heat transfer materials are arranged such that the spacing between the first heat transfer materials gradually narrows from the center of the battery cell towards both ends, so as to gradually improve the heat dissipation performance from the center of the battery cell towards both ends. Wherein, one surface of the cover plate includes: A first receiving surface, the first receiving surface being divided at both ends in the thickness direction of the battery cell; and A second receiving surface is divided between the first receiving surfaces, wherein the first and second receiving surfaces extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell, and The first heat transfer material is disposed on the first receiving surface.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, Among the first heat transfer materials arranged on the first receiving surface, the spacing between the first heat transfer materials with the narrowest spacing is greater than the thickness of the first heat transfer materials.

3. The battery module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The heat sink further includes a plurality of second heat transfer materials, which are arranged on the second receiving surface along the width direction of the battery cell. The second heat transfer material is arranged on the second receiving surface at the same spacing.

4. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein, The plurality of second heat transfer materials arranged on the second receiving surface are spaced apart from each other so as not to be connected to each other, and the plurality of second heat transfer materials are spaced apart from the first heat transfer material arranged on the first receiving surface so as not to be connected to the first heat transfer material.

5. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, A pair of heat dissipation pads are respectively disposed at both ends of the inner surface of the battery case. The heat dissipation pads reduce the temperature deviation between the center and the two ends of the battery cell by releasing the heat generated at both ends of the battery cell.

6. The battery module according to claim 5, wherein, On the inner surface of the battery casing, a trimming pad is provided between the pair of heat dissipation pads to trim the space between the pair of heat dissipation pads.

7. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first heat transfer material, which is arranged at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell, has a "C" shape with its ends facing the outside of the battery cell.

8. A battery module, comprising: Multiple battery cells are arranged to overlap each other in their thickness direction, each battery cell including an electrode lead connected such that the temperature of heat generated at both ends of the battery cell is higher than the temperature at the center of the battery cell. A battery case, the battery case being configured to house the battery cell and having an open bottom structure; as well as Heat dissipation component, the heat dissipation component comprising: A cover plate, the cover plate being attached to the lower part of the battery housing to support the battery cell; and A heat sink is disposed on one surface of the cover plate that supports the battery cell, in order to dissipate the heat generated in the battery cell. The heat sink includes a first heat transfer material, which is arranged in multiple rows along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell on one surface of the cover plate. The first heat transfer materials are arranged such that the spacing between the first heat transfer materials gradually narrows from the center of the battery cell towards both ends, so as to gradually improve the heat dissipation performance from the center of the battery cell towards both ends. Wherein, one surface of the cover plate includes: A first receiving surface, the first receiving surface being divided at both ends in the thickness direction of the battery cell; and A second receiving surface is divided between the first receiving surfaces, wherein the first receiving surfaces and the second receiving surfaces extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell. The first heat transfer material has a structure in which it is connected in a concave-convex shape from one end to the other of the first receiving surface, and The heat sink further includes a second heat transfer material, which is disposed on the second receiving surface along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell and connected to the other end of each of the first heat transfer materials.

9. A method for manufacturing a battery module according to any one of claims 1-8, the method comprising: Arrangement steps: Arrange multiple battery cells to overlap each other in the thickness direction; The housing step involves housing the overlapping battery cells in a battery case, with the lower part of the battery case open. Preparation steps: Prepare a heat dissipation component, which includes a cover plate and a heat sink, wherein the heat sink is disposed on one surface of the cover plate that supports the battery cell; as well as Connection step: Connect the cover plate of the heat dissipation component to the lower part of the battery case. The preparation steps include a first application step, in which a first heat transfer material is applied to one surface of the cover plate along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell, arranged in multiple rows. The first heat transfer materials are arranged such that the spacing between them gradually narrows from the center of the battery cell towards both ends. The preparation steps include a dividing step prior to the first application step: dividing a first receiving surface at both ends of a surface of the cover plate along the thickness direction of the battery cell, and dividing a second receiving surface between the first receiving surfaces. In the first application step, the first heat transfer material is applied to the first receiving surface.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The preparation steps also include a second application step following the first application step: applying a plurality of second heat transfer materials such that they are arranged on the second receiving surface along the width direction of the battery cell.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, In the second application step, the plurality of second heat transfer materials are applied so that they are not connected to each other and are not connected to the first heat transfer material disposed on the first receiving surface.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The containing step further includes the process of attaching heat dissipation pads to the two ends of the inner surface of the battery case, which correspond to the two ends of the battery cell.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The receiving step also includes the process of attaching the trimming pad between the heat dissipation pads to the inner surface of the battery case.

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