Battery module, battery pack including the same, and vehicle

Abstract

Disclosed is a battery module that ensures proper bonding force between internal components, reduces production costs, and improves manufacturing efficiency. A battery module according to the present invention for achieving the above object includes a plurality of battery cells; at least two or more module cases each having an internal space for accommodating the plurality of battery cells therein and provided with coupling portions protruding toward each other, wherein the coupling portion of one module case is configured to be coupled in a male-female manner with the coupling portion of the other module case; and a first adhesive configured to be interposed between the coupling portion of one module case and the coupling portion of the other module case coupled in a male-female manner with each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery module, a battery pack including the battery module, and a vehicle, and more specifically, to a battery module having appropriate coupling forces between internal components, reducing production costs and improving manufacturing efficiency, as well as a battery pack including the battery module and a vehicle.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0087034, filed in Korea on July 14, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Recently, with the rapid growth in demand for portable electronic products (such as laptops, cameras, and mobile phones) and the widespread development of electric vehicles, batteries for energy storage, robots, and satellites, there is a great deal of research being conducted on high-performance rechargeable secondary batteries.

[0004] Currently, the rechargeable batteries available on the market include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium rechargeable batteries. Among them, lithium rechargeable batteries have a very small or no memory effect, so they are more popular than nickel-based rechargeable batteries because their advantages are that they can be recharged whenever convenient, have a very low self-discharge rate, and have high energy density.

[0005] Furthermore, in battery modules comprising multiple battery cells that serve as secondary batteries, the stability and efficiency of the battery module become highly problematic when overvoltage, overcurrent, or overheating occurs at the battery cells, thus requiring devices for detecting and controlling them. As such a configuration, for example, a BMS (Battery Management System) comprising various components can be used.

[0006] Here, when a prior art battery module includes multiple module housings for accommodating multiple battery cells, multiple fastening components (such as bolts and nuts) for connecting the module housings to each other or connecting the module housings to an outer housing are typically used for assembly.

[0007] However, using multiple bolts and nuts can increase material costs and the weight of the battery module, and the downside is that a large number of bolt connections require a significant amount of time. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] This disclosure is designed to address problems in the related art, and therefore aims to provide a battery module, a battery pack including the battery module, and a vehicle, wherein the battery module has appropriate coupling forces between internal components, reducing production costs and improving manufacturing efficiency.

[0010] These and other objects and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description and from the exemplary embodiments thereof. Moreover, it will be readily understood that the objects and advantages of this disclosure can be achieved by the means shown in the appended claims and combinations thereof.

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] In one aspect of this disclosure, a battery module is provided, comprising: a plurality of battery cells; at least two module housings, each of the at least two module housings being configured to have internal spaces for accommodating the plurality of battery cells therein and having connecting portions projecting toward each other, the at least two module housings being configured such that the connecting portion of one module housing is in a protruding-concave connection with the connecting portion of the other module housing; and a first adhesive, the first adhesive being inserted between the connecting portions of the one module housing and the other module housing in the protruding-concave connection.

[0013] Furthermore, the connecting portion of one module housing may have a column shape protruding outward from its outer wall, and the connecting portion of the other module housing may have a hollow tube shape, such that the column shape of the connecting portion of the one module housing is inserted into the tube shape.

[0014] In addition, one module housing may include a hook formed at the column shape of the connecting portion, and the other module housing may include a retaining groove formed in the tube shape of the connecting portion for engagement with the hook.

[0015] Furthermore, the connecting portion of the module housing may have multiple receiving slots configured to accommodate the first adhesive therein.

[0016] Furthermore, the connecting portion of the module housing may have a spiral groove extending spirally along the outer surface of the column, the spiral groove being configured such that the first adhesive is accommodated therein.

[0017] In addition, each of the at least two module housings may include a first frame configured to receive one side of the plurality of battery cells; and a second frame connected to the first frame and configured to receive the other side of the plurality of battery cells.

[0018] Furthermore, in the at least two module housings, one module housing may include: a first connecting protrusion disposed on the first frame and configured to connect with the second frame of the one module housing; and a first protrusion disposed on the second frame and a second connecting protrusion disposed on the second frame, the first protrusion having a connecting groove configured to allow the first connecting protrusion of the first frame to be inserted into and connected in the connecting groove, and the second connecting protrusion configured to connect with the second frame of the other module housing;

[0019] In addition, the other module housing may include: a first connecting protrusion disposed on the first frame and configured to connect with the second frame of the other module housing; and a first protrusion and a second protrusion disposed on the second frame, the first protrusion having a connecting groove configured to connect with the first connecting protrusion of the other module housing, and the second protrusion having a connecting groove configured to connect with the second connecting protrusion of the first module housing.

[0020] Furthermore, the first frame may have an assembly groove, and the protruding end of the first protrusion of the second frame is assembled in the assembly groove.

[0021] Furthermore, the first frame may have a slit configured such that one side of the first protrusion of the second frame is inserted.

[0022] Furthermore, in another aspect of this disclosure, a battery pack is also provided, which includes at least one battery module as described above.

[0023] Furthermore, in another aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle is also provided, which includes at least one battery module as described above.

[0024] Beneficial effects

[0025] According to embodiments of this disclosure, since the connecting portion capable of forming a convex-concave connection is configured to connect at least two module housings to each other, and a first adhesive is inserted between the connecting portions, the at least two module housings can be tightly connected. That is, the battery module of this disclosure can maintain a stable fixed state because the relative movement of the module housings in the left-right and front-back directions can be constrained by the connecting portion and the first adhesive. Therefore, the durability of the battery module can be effectively improved.

[0026] Furthermore, compared to existing technologies that use bolts to connect at least two module housings to each other, bolts are not required in this disclosure, thus reducing material costs, simplifying the connection process, and effectively improving manufacturing efficiency.

[0027] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this disclosure, since a hook connection can be achieved between the first and second frames of a module housing, i.e., between the first connecting protrusion and the connecting groove formed at the first protrusion, no separate bolts are used, and therefore material costs can be reduced and manufacturing efficiency can be effectively improved through a simplified connection process.

[0028] Furthermore, since the second frame of the other module housing includes a second protrusion configured to connect with the second frame of one module housing, and the one module housing includes a second connecting protrusion that connects with the connecting groove of the second protrusion, a mechanical connection between one module housing and another module housing can be achieved without using separate bolts, thereby reducing material costs and effectively improving manufacturing efficiency through a simplified connection process. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, serve to provide a further understanding of the technical features of the present disclosure; therefore, the present disclosure is not to be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic front perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a schematic rear perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a perspective view schematically showing a module housing or the like of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view schematically showing some components of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a perspective view schematically showing another module housing, etc., of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view schematically showing some components of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 7 It is a schematic representation of the path along Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the battery module taken by the C-C' line.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 10 This is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 11 This is an enlarged view schematically showing a portion of a battery module according to yet another embodiment, which corresponds to Figure 3 Region A. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terminology used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to its general and dictionary meaning, but rather is interpreted based on the principle that inventors are allowed to appropriately define terms for the best interpretation, and on the meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure.

[0042] Therefore, the description presented herein is merely a preferred example for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that other equivalents and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a schematic front perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a schematic rear perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a perspective view schematically showing a module housing or the like of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view schematically showing some components of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is a perspective view schematically showing another module housing, etc., of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating some components of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Furthermore, Figure 7 It is a schematic representation of the path along Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the battery module taken by the C-C' line.

[0044] Reference Figures 1 to 7 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery module 100 includes a plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110, at least two module housings 141, 142 and a first adhesive 150.

[0045] Specifically, for example, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, a plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110 may include a battery canister 116, and a positive terminal 111 and a negative terminal 112 formed on one side (right side, in the positive direction of the X-axis) of the main body of the battery canister 116. Conversely, in the housing Figure 6 In another module housing 142, among multiple cylindrical battery cells 110, the positive terminal 111 and the negative terminal 112 can be located on the other side (left side) of the main body of the battery can 116. Figure 1 (The negative direction of the X-axis in the diagram).

[0046] Furthermore, the positive terminal 111 may have an exposed, disc-shaped outer surface. The negative terminal 112 may be an edge portion spaced apart from the positive terminal 111. The positive terminal 111 and the negative terminal 112 may be spaced apart by a predetermined distance. The positive terminal 111 and the negative terminal 112 may be configured to be electrically insulated from each other. Additionally, the exposed portion of the positive terminal 111 of the cylindrical battery cell 110 may be larger than the portion of the negative terminal 112.

[0047] Furthermore, the cylindrical battery cell 110 may include an electrode assembly (not shown) electrically connected to each of the positive terminal 111 and the negative terminal 112 and housed within the battery canister 116. Such components of the cylindrical battery cell 110 are well known to those skilled in the art at the time of filing this application and are therefore not described in detail here.

[0048] Furthermore, the multiple cylindrical battery cells 110 can be arranged along the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and the front-back direction (Y-axis direction). The multiple cylindrical battery cells 110 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval. For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, multiple cylindrical battery cells 110 can be arranged in the front-to-back direction (Y-axis direction) and the left-to-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0049] Furthermore, each of at least two module housings 141, 142 may have an internal space for accommodating a plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110 therein. The internal space may have an internal shape formed around the outer surface of the cylindrical battery cells 110.

[0050] Furthermore, at least two module housings 141, 142 can be configured to be connected to each other. For example, as Figure 1As shown, a module housing 141 (first module housing) located on the left and another module housing 142 (second module housing) located on the right can be connected to each other. For this purpose, at least two module housings 141 and 142 can each include connecting portions 146p and 148p protruding towards each other. The connecting portion 146p of one of the module housings 141 can have a shape protruding towards the connecting portion 148p of the other module housing 142. The connecting portion 148p of the other module housing 142 can have a shape protruding towards the connecting portion 146p of one module housing 141.

[0051] Additionally, the connecting portion 146p of one module housing 141 can be configured to form a concave-convex connection with the connecting portion 148p of another module housing 142. For example, as Figure 4 As shown, the battery module 100 may include two module housings 141 and 142. The left module housing 141 and the right module housing 142 are connected by a tongue-and-groove connection formed therein by connecting portions 146p and 148p, respectively. A plurality of connecting portions 146p protruding to the right may be provided to the left module housing 141. A plurality of connecting portions 148p protruding to the left may be provided to the right module housing 142. The connecting portions 146p of the left module housing 141 and the connecting portions 148p of the right module housing 142 can be connected to each other by a tongue-and-groove connection.

[0052] See Figure 7 as well as Figure 1 and Figure 3 The first adhesive 150 can be configured to be inserted between the coupling portion 146p of one module housing 141 and the coupling portion 148p of another module housing 142, thereby enabling a protruding-contact joint. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, the connecting portion 146p of one module housing 141 and the connecting portion 148p of another module housing 142 are connected to each other with a concave-convex joint, and the first adhesive 150 can be inserted between the two connecting portions 146p and 148p.

[0053] For example, the first adhesive 150 may be a cured adhesive. The first adhesive 150 may be transparent and electrically insulating. The first adhesive 150 may be a glue or a hot melt resin. For example, the first adhesive 150 may include at least one selected from polyamide-based resins, polyimide-based resins, epoxy-based resins, and acrylic resins.

[0054] Furthermore, after applying the first adhesive 150 to the empty space within the connecting portion 148p of another module housing 142, the connecting portion 146p of one module housing 141 can be inserted into the empty space within the connecting portion 148p of the other module housing 142. During this insertion process, the first adhesive 150 can be inserted between the connecting portion 146p of one module housing 141 and the connecting portion 148p of the other module housing 142.

[0055] Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the connecting portions 146p and 148p, which are interlocking, are configured to connect at least two module housings 141 and 142 to each other, and the first adhesive 150 is placed between the connecting portions 146p and 148p, at least two module housings 141 and 142 are securely connected. That is, the battery module of the present disclosure can maintain a stable fixed state because the relative movement of the module housings 141 and 142 can be constrained in the left-right and front-back directions by the connecting portions 146p and 148p and the first adhesive 150. Therefore, the durability of the battery module 100 can be effectively improved.

[0056] Furthermore, compared to the prior art that uses bolts to connect at least two module housings 141, 142 to each other, bolts are not required in this disclosure, thus reducing material costs, simplifying the connection process, and effectively improving manufacturing efficiency.

[0057] Refer again Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 More specifically, the connecting portion 146p of a module housing 141 may have a column shape protruding outward from its outer wall. The connecting portion 146p of a module housing 141 may be a column shape inserted into a tube shape of the connecting portion 148p of another module housing 142. In this case, the column shape may be a circular column shape, a triangular column shape, a rectangular column shape, or a pentagonal column shape.

[0058] Additionally, the connecting portion 148p of another module housing 142 may have an internal space with dimensions corresponding to the external shape of the connecting portion 146p of one module housing 141. For example, the connecting portion 148p of the other module housing 142 may have an internally hollow tube shape (hollow), allowing the columnar shape of the connecting portion 146p of one module housing 141 to be inserted therein. The connecting portion 148p of the other module housing 142 may have a circular tube shape, a triangular tube shape, a rectangular tube shape, or a pentagonal tube shape with one side blocked.

[0059] For example, such as Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7As shown, any one of the connecting portions 146p of a module housing 141 can have a rectangular column shape. In the connecting portion 148p of another module housing 142, the connecting portion 148p corresponding to the rectangular column-shaped connecting portion 146p can have a rectangular tube shape with one side blocked. The connecting portion 146p of one module housing 141 can be inserted into the internal space of the connecting portion 148p of the other module housing 142, which has a rectangular tube shape. In this case, the connecting portions 146p of one module housing 141 and the connecting portions 148p of the other module housing 142 can be bonded to each other using a first adhesive 150.

[0060] Therefore, according to this configuration, since the connecting portion 146p of one module housing 141 has a column shape and the connecting portion 148p of the other module housing 142 has a tubular shape, the two connecting portions 146p and 148p can be interlocked. Furthermore, since the relative movement of at least two module housings 141 and 142 can be restricted in the left-right and up-down directions by these connecting portions 146p and 148p, a stable fixed state can be maintained. Therefore, the durability of the battery module 100 can be effectively improved.

[0061] Figure 8 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] See Figure 8 According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the connecting portions 146p1 and 148p1 of the battery module may have a connection with... Figure 7 The connecting parts 146p and 148p shown have different shapes. Other structures are similar. Figure 1 The battery module 100 shown has the same structure.

[0063] Specifically, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, at least two module housings 141A and 142A of the battery module may have a hook H provided in a cylindrical connecting portion 146p1 of one module housing 141A. The hook H may have a protruding shape that protrudes outward from the cylindrical outer surface of the connecting portion 146p1. Additionally, the connecting portion 148p1 of the tubular module housing 142A may also have a fixing groove G1 capable of connecting with the hook H. That is, the fixing groove G1 may be formed in the tubular interior space of the connecting portion 148p1. The fixing groove G1 may be configured as a groove of a predetermined size so that the hook H can be hooked and installed therein.

[0064] For example, such as Figure 8As shown, the connecting portion 146p1 of one module housing 141A of the battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may have two hooks H. The connecting portion 148p1 of the other module housing 142A may have two fixing grooves G1, such that the two hooks H are inserted and hooked in the tube shape.

[0065] Therefore, according to this configuration, since the connecting portions 146p1 and 148p1 of at least two module housings 141A and 142A of the battery module 100 according to another embodiment of this disclosure each have a hook H and a fixing groove G1, the two connecting portions 146p1 and 148p1 can be mechanically fastened. Thus, a strong connection between at least two module housings 141A and 142A can be achieved, thereby effectively improving the durability of the battery module.

[0066] In this embodiment, the fastening force between at least two module housings 141A and 142A can be further improved by using hook H and fixing groove G1 for hooking hook H.

[0067] Therefore, in this embodiment, compared with the prior art that uses bolts to connect at least two module housings 141A, 142A to each other, the hook connection using hook H and fixing groove G1 eliminates the need for additional bolts or nuts, thus reducing material costs and simplifying the connection process, thereby effectively improving manufacturing efficiency.

[0068] Therefore, in this embodiment, since separate bolts and nuts are not used, material costs can be reduced and manufacturing efficiency can be effectively improved through a simplified connection process.

[0069] Figure 9 This is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] Reference Figure 9 According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the connection portion 146p2 of the battery module may have a connection with... Figure 7 The connecting part 146p shown has a different form. Other constructions are different. Figure 1 The battery module 100 shown has the same structure.

[0071] Specifically, in at least two module housings 141B, 142B of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of receiving grooves G2 configured to receive the first adhesive 150 may be formed at a connecting portion 146p2 of a module housing 141B. For example, the receiving grooves G2 may have a shape such as a pit formed on the surface of a golf ball.

[0072] For example, such as Figure 9As shown, when the connecting portion 146p2 of one module housing 141B is inserted into the internal space of the connecting portion 148p2 of another module housing 142B, which has a tubular shape, the first adhesive 150 added to the internal space of the connecting portion 148p2 can be accommodated in the internal space of the receiving groove G2 of one module housing 141B. Therefore, a sufficient amount of the first adhesive 150 can be accommodated between the connecting portion 146p2 of one module housing 141B and the connecting portion 148p2 of the other module housing 142B.

[0073] Therefore, according to this configuration, since a plurality of receiving grooves G2 configured to receive the first adhesive 150 are formed at the connecting portion 146p2 of a module housing 141B, a sufficient amount of the first adhesive 150 can be contained on the surface of the connecting portion, thereby effectively improving the connection force between the connecting portion 146p2 of one module housing 141B and the connecting portion 148p2 of another module housing 142B. Thus, a strong connection between at least two module housings 141B and 142B can be achieved, thereby effectively improving the durability of the battery module.

[0074] Figure 10 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a battery module according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] Reference Figure 10 According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the connection portion 146p3 of the battery module may have a connection with... Figure 7 The connecting part 146p shown has a different form. Other constructions are different. Figure 1 The battery module 100 shown has the same structure.

[0076] In the connecting portion 146p3 of a module housing 141C of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a spiral groove G3 may be formed extending spirally along the outer surface of a post configured to receive a first adhesive 150. When the connecting portion 146p3 of one module housing 141C is inserted into the internal space of the connecting portion 148p3 of another module housing 142C having a tubular shape, the spiral groove G3 may be configured such that the first adhesive 150 received in the internal space of the connecting portion 148p3 of the other module housing 142C may be received therein. The first adhesive 150 received in the spiral groove G3 may be cured to bond the connecting portion 146p3 of one module housing 141C and the connecting portion 148p3 of the other module housing 142C.

[0077] Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, by forming a spiral groove G3 at the connecting portion 146p3 of one module housing 141C, the first adhesive 150 can cure along the spiral groove G3, and thus can effectively block the force that would cause the connecting portion 146p3 of one module housing 141C to separate in the opposite direction to the insertion direction. Therefore, a strong connection between at least two module housings 141C and 142C can be achieved, thereby effectively improving the durability of the battery module.

[0078] See you again Figures 1 to 6 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, at least two module housings 141 and 142 of the battery module 100 may each include a first frame 145 and 147 and a second frame 146 and 148. Specifically, the first frame 145 may be configured to accommodate one side of a plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110. The second frame 146 may be connected to the first frame 145 and configured to accommodate the other side of the plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110.

[0079] For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, a module housing 141 located on the left side may include a first frame 145 and a second frame 146. The first frame 145 is configured to accommodate a plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110 on the left side, and the second frame 146 is coupled to the first frame 145 and configured to accommodate a plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110 on the right side. In this case, a second adhesive (not shown) for securing the plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110 may be filled within a module housing 141.

[0080] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, another module housing 142 located on the right side may include a first frame 147 and a second frame 148. The first frame 147 is configured to accommodate a plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110 on the right side, and the second frame 148 is coupled to the first frame 147 and configured to accommodate a plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110 on the left side. In this case, a second adhesive (not shown) for securing the plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110 may be filled within the other module housing 142.

[0081] Furthermore, in at least two module housings 141, 142, one module housing 141 may include a first connecting protrusion P1 at a first frame 145. The first connecting protrusion P1 may be configured to connect to a second frame 146 of one module housing 141. For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, four first connecting protrusions P1 can be disposed on the front surface of the first frame along the front-rear direction (Y-axis direction). Figure 2 As shown, four first connecting protrusions P1 can also be provided on the rear surface of the first frame.

[0082] Furthermore, a module housing 141 may include a first protrusion E1 and a second coupling protrusion P2 at a second frame 146. The first protrusion E1 may have a coupling groove G4 configured such that the first coupling protrusion P1 of the first frame 145 of the module housing 141I is inserted and engaged therein. The first protrusion E1 may have a shape that protrudes toward the first coupling protrusion P1 of the first frame 145. The second coupling protrusion P2 may be configured to engage with the second frame 148 of another module housing 142. For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, three first protrusions E1 can be disposed on the front surface of the second frame 146 of a module housing 141. Figure 2 As shown, the three first protrusions E1 can also be disposed on the rear surface of the second frame 146 of a module housing 141.

[0083] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, in at least two module housings 141, 142, another module housing 142 may include a first connecting protrusion P1 at a first frame 147. The first connecting protrusion P1 may be configured to connect with a second frame 148 of the other module housing 142.

[0084] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, four first connecting protrusions P1 can be disposed on the front surface of the first frame 147 of another module housing 142 located on the right side. Furthermore, as... Figure 2 As shown, four first connecting protrusions P1 can also be provided on the rear surface of the second frame 148.

[0085] Additionally, another module housing 142 may include a first protrusion E1 and a second protrusion E2 at the second frame 148 of the other module housing 142. The first protrusion E1 may have a connection groove G4 configured to engage with a first connection protrusion P1 of the other module housing 142. The second protrusion E2 may have a connection groove G4 configured to engage with a second connection protrusion P2 of the second frame 146 of a module housing 141.

[0086] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, four first protrusions E1 can be disposed at the front of the second frame 148 of another module housing 142. Figure 2 As shown, the four first protrusions E1 can also be disposed at the rear of the second frame of another module housing 142. Furthermore, as... Figure 6 As shown, three second protrusions E2 can be provided at the front of the second frame 148 of the other module housing 142. Figure 2 As shown, three second protrusions E2 can be disposed at the rear of the second frame 148 of another module housing 142.

[0087] Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, since a hook connection can be achieved between the first frame 145 and the second frame 146 of a module housing 141, i.e., between the first connecting protrusion P1 and the connecting groove G4 formed at the first protrusion E1, individual bolts are not used, and thus material costs are reduced and manufacturing efficiency is effectively improved through a simplified connection process. Furthermore, since the second frame 148 of another module housing 142 includes a second protrusion E2 configured to connect with the second frame 146 of a module housing 141, and a module housing 141 includes a second connecting protrusion P2 that connects with the connecting groove G4 of the second protrusion E2, a mechanical connection between one module housing 141 and another module housing 142 can be achieved without using individual bolts. This simplifies the connection process, reduces material costs, and effectively improves manufacturing efficiency.

[0088] Figure 11 This is an enlarged view schematically showing a portion of a battery module according to yet another embodiment, which corresponds to Figure 3 Region A.

[0089] See Figure 11 Together Figure 3 According to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first frame 145 of a module housing 141D of a battery module may further include a mounting slot G5, such that it can be used with... Figure 3 Compared to a module housing 141, the protruding end of the first protrusion E1 of the second frame 146 is fitted therein. For example, the first frame 145 may have three mounting slots G5, such that the ends of the three first protrusions E1 are respectively fitted therein. The mounting slots G5 may be part of a module housing 141D that protrudes in the form of an "Γ" from the outer surface of a module housing 141D.

[0090] Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the first frame 145 has a mounting groove G5, the protruding end of the first protrusion E1 of the second frame 146 is fitted therein. When the first protrusion E1 of the second frame 146 unfolds forward or backward, the first protrusion E1 of the second frame 146 can be effectively prevented from separating from the first connecting protrusion P1 provided at the first frame 145. Therefore, a stable connection between the first frame 145 and the second frame 146 of a module housing 141D can be achieved, thereby effectively improving the durability of the battery module.

[0091] At the same time, refer to Figure 11 as well as Figure 3 According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first frame 145 of a module housing 141D of a battery module may have a slit S, with... Figure 3Compared to a module housing 141, the slit S is configured such that the side portion of the first protrusion E1 of the second frame is inserted therein. For example, as Figure 11 As shown, the first frame 145 may have two slits S. The two slits S may be configured such that the first protrusion E1 of the second frame 146 is inserted into them on both sides in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The slits S may be formed by recessing a portion of a module housing 141D that protrudes outward from its outer surface. Here, the recessed shape may correspond to the end of the first protrusion E1.

[0092] Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the first frame 145 has a slit S configured such that the side of the first protrusion E1 of the second frame 146 is inserted therein, the first protrusion E1 of the second frame 146 can guide the movement direction of the first frame 145 toward the first connecting protrusion P1. Furthermore, when the first protrusion E1 of the second frame 146 extends forward or backward, separation of the first protrusion E1 from the first connecting protrusion P1 disposed on the first frame 145 can be effectively prevented. Therefore, a stable connection between the first frame 145 and the second frame 146 of a module housing 141D can be achieved, thereby effectively improving the durability of the battery module.

[0093] At the same time, see again Figure 4 and Figure 6 The battery module 100 further includes a busbar 120 configured to electrically connect a plurality of cylindrical battery cells 110. The busbar 120 may include a conductive material. For example, the busbar 120 may include at least one of a copper alloy, an aluminum alloy, and a nickel alloy. The busbar 120 may have a plate shape. The busbar 120 may have a shape in which a portion of it is bent at least once.

[0094] Furthermore, the busbar 120 can be mounted to the exterior of the module housing 141. In this case, a third adhesive (not shown) can be inserted between the busbar 120 and the module housing 141. For example, as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, eight busbars 120 can be installed on the right side of the module housing 141. In this case, among the eight busbars 120, the top and bottom busbars 120a and 120b can have different shapes from the other six busbars 120. Furthermore, the top and bottom busbars 120 can be configured to electrically connect only to the positive or negative terminals 111 or 112 of the multiple cylindrical battery cells 110. The remaining six busbars 120 will be described in more detail later.

[0095] At the same time, refer to again Figure 3 and Figure 4Each of at least two or more types of connecting members 130 may include a conductive material. For example, connecting member 130 may include at least one of a copper alloy, an aluminum alloy, and a nickel alloy. Connecting member 130 may have an elongated body. In other words, connecting member 130 may have a strip shape or a line shape with an elongated body. One end of the body of connecting member 130 in the extending direction may be coupled to busbar 120. Furthermore, one end of connecting member 130 may be welded to the outer surface of busbar 120. For example, the welding method may be ultrasonic welding.

[0096] Furthermore, the other end of the connecting member 130 can be attached to either the positive terminal 111 or the negative terminal 112. In this case, the other end of the connecting member 130 can be welded to the outer surface of either the positive terminal 111 or the negative terminal 112. For example, the welding method can be ultrasonic welding.

[0097] Furthermore, at least two or more types of connecting members 130 may include a first connecting member 131 connected to the negative terminal 112 and a second connecting member 132 connected to the positive terminal 111. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, one end of the first connecting member 131 can be connected to the busbar 120, and the other end can be connected to the negative terminal 112 of the cylindrical battery cell 110. One end of the second connecting member 132 can be connected to the busbar 120, and the other end can be connected to the positive terminal 111 of the cylindrical battery cell 110.

[0098] The first connecting member 131 may have a linear shape that extends in the longitudinal direction. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, one linear end of the first connecting member 131 can be coupled to the busbar 120. The other linear end of the first connecting member 131 can be coupled to the negative terminal 112. Because the linear shape has a shape with a narrow diameter that extends longitudinally, the first connecting member 131 has a shape optimized for coupling with the negative terminal 112, which has a narrow outer surface exposed to the outside compared to the positive terminal 111.

[0099] The second connecting member 132 may have a strip shape that extends in the longitudinal direction. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, one end of the strip-shaped second connecting member 132 can be coupled to the busbar 120. The other end of the strip-shaped second connecting member 132 can be coupled to the positive terminal 111. The second connecting member 132 can have a plate shape that is rectangular in plan view. One surface of the second connecting member 132 facing the positive terminal 111 can be coupled to the outer surface of the positive terminal 111. One surface of the second connecting member 132 facing the busbar 120 can be coupled to the outer surface of the busbar 120.

[0100] Therefore, according to this configuration of the present disclosure, since the present disclosure includes a busbar 120 and at least two or more types of connecting members 130, which have different connection areas depending on the terminals to be connected between the positive terminal 111 and the negative terminal 112, the connection area between the connecting member 130 and the positive terminal 111 or the negative terminal 112 can be optimized.

[0101] That is, compared with the prior art that uses a single type of connecting member 130 to connect the busbar 120 to the positive terminal 111 or the negative terminal 112, in this disclosure, the connection area can be set differently depending on the type of terminals connected by at least two or more types of connecting members 130. Therefore, in this disclosure, even when the battery module 100 is installed in a vehicle exposed to environments with frequent vibration and shock, separation of the connection between the connecting member 130 and the positive terminal 111 or the negative terminal 112 can be effectively prevented. Ultimately, the durability of the battery module 100 can be effectively improved.

[0102] At the same time, refer to Figure 1 The battery pack according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one battery module 100 as described above and a battery management system (BMS) 160 electrically connected to a busbar 120 of the battery module 100. The BMS 160 may include various circuits or components to control the charging and discharging of multiple battery cells.

[0103] Furthermore, a vehicle (not shown) according to embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one battery module 100 as described above and a receiving space for accommodating the battery module 100. For example, the vehicle may be an electric vehicle, an electric scooter, an electric wheelchair, or an electric bicycle.

[0104] At the same time, the terms used herein to indicate direction, such as up, down, left, right, front, and back, are merely for ease of description, and those skilled in the art will obviously recognize that these terms may vary depending on the position of the element or the observer.

[0105] This disclosure has been described in detail. However, it should be understood that although preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been pointed out, the detailed description and specific examples are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications within the scope of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on the detailed description.

Claims

1. A battery module, the battery module comprising: Multiple battery cells; At least two module housings, each having one module housing and another module housing, wherein each of the one module housing and the other module housing has an internal space for accommodating the plurality of battery cells and has a connecting portion, wherein the connecting portion of the one module housing and the connecting portion of the other module housing project toward each other and are joined in a first direction without the use of bolts; and A first adhesive is inserted between the connecting portion of one module housing and the connecting portion of the other module housing, which are connected by a tongue-and-groove joint. The plurality of battery cells of the module housing are disposed within a first region in a first plane defined by a second direction and a third direction, wherein the second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to the first direction. Wherein, the connecting portion of the module housing overlaps with the first region along the first direction.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, in, The connecting portion of the module housing has a column shape protruding outward from its outer wall, and The connecting portion of the other module housing has a hollow tubular shape, such that the columnar shape of the connecting portion of the first module housing is inserted into the tubular shape.

3. The battery module according to claim 2, in, The module housing includes a hook formed at the column shape of the connecting portion of the module housing, and The other module housing includes a retaining groove formed in the tube shape of the connecting portion of the other module housing for engagement with the hook.

4. The battery module according to claim 2, in, The connecting portion of the module housing has a plurality of receiving slots configured such that the first adhesive is received therein.

5. The battery module according to claim 2, in, The connecting portion of the module housing has a spiral groove extending spirally along the outer surface of the column, the spiral groove being configured to accommodate the first adhesive therein.

6. The battery module according to claim 1, in, Each of the one module housing and the other module housing includes: A first frame, configured to accommodate one side of the plurality of battery cells; and A second frame is connected to the first frame and is configured to accommodate the other side of the plurality of battery cells.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, in, In the at least two module housings, the one module housing includes: A first connecting protrusion disposed on the first frame and configured to connect with the second frame of the module housing; and A first protrusion disposed on the second frame and a second connecting protrusion disposed on the second frame, the first protrusion having a connecting groove configured to allow the first connecting protrusion of the first frame to be inserted into and connected in the connecting groove, the second connecting protrusion being configured to be connected to the second frame of another module housing in the at least two module housings; The other module housing includes: A first connecting protrusion disposed on the first frame of the other module housing and configured to connect with the second frame of the other module housing; and A first protrusion and a second protrusion are disposed on the second frame of the other module housing, the first protrusion of the other module housing having a connecting groove configured to connect with the first connecting protrusion of the other module housing, and the second protrusion of the other module housing having a connecting groove configured to connect with the second connecting protrusion of the first module housing.

8. The battery module according to claim 7, in, The first frame of each of the one module housing and the other module housing has an assembly groove, and the protruding end of the first protrusion of the second frame of each of the one module housing and the other module housing is assembled in the assembly groove.

9. The battery module according to claim 7, in, The first frame of each of the one module housing and the other module housing has a slit, the slit being configured such that one side of the first protrusion of the second frame of each of the one module housing and the other module housing is inserted.

10. A battery pack comprising at least one battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A vehicle comprising at least one battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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