Battery module and battery pack including the same

Abstract

A battery module according to one embodiment of the present application includes: a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked in one direction; a module frame for accommodating the battery cell stack; a busbar frame for covering a front surface or a rear surface of the battery cell stack; and an end plate coupled to the module frame and covering the busbar frame, wherein at least one opening is formed in the end plate, wherein a module connector is disposed in the opening of the end plate, and wherein the module connector is mounted on one surface of the busbar frame through a case that protects the module connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0060832, filed on May 11, 2021, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0003] The present invention relates to a battery module and a battery pack including the battery module, and more specifically, to a battery module with improved safety and a battery pack including the battery module. Background Technology

[0004] With the development of technology and the increasing demand for mobile devices, the demand for rechargeable batteries as an energy source is rapidly increasing. Therefore, many studies are being conducted on batteries that can meet various needs.

[0005] Secondary batteries have attracted considerable attention as a power source for devices such as electric bicycles, electric cars, and hybrid electric vehicles, as well as for mobile devices such as mobile phones, digital cameras, and laptops.

[0006] Recently, with the increasing demand for high-capacity secondary battery structures, including the use of secondary batteries as energy storage sources, the demand for multi-module battery packs is growing. Multi-module structures are components of battery modules, in which multiple secondary batteries are connected in series or parallel.

[0007] Meanwhile, it is common practice to construct a battery module by connecting multiple battery cells in series or parallel to form a battery pack, and then add other components to the at least one battery module to form a battery pack. Since the battery cells constituting these medium or large battery modules are composed of rechargeable / dischargeable secondary batteries, these high-output and high-capacity secondary batteries generate a significant amount of heat during charging and discharging.

[0008] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the state of a battery module installed on a conventional battery pack during ignition. Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The cross section AA, Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view showing the appearance of the flame affecting adjacent battery modules during the ignition of a battery module mounted on a conventional battery pack.

[0009] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2A conventional battery module 10 includes: a battery cell stack 12 on which multiple battery cells 11 are stacked; a module frame 20 for housing the battery cell stack 12; end plates 40 formed on the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 12; terminal busbars 50 formed to protrude outward from the end plates; etc.

[0010] The battery cell stack 12 is located in a closed structure by connecting the frame 20 and the end plate 40. Therefore, when the internal pressure of the battery cell 11 increases due to overcharging, high-temperature heat, gas, or flame may be discharged to the outside of the battery cell 11. Heat, gas, flame, etc., discharged from one battery cell 11 can transfer to other adjacent battery cells 11 at narrow intervals, causing continuous ignition. Furthermore, heat, gas, flame, etc., discharged from each battery cell 11 can be discharged towards the opening formed in the end plate 40. During this process, damage to components such as the busbar 50 located between the end plate 40 and the battery cell 11 may occur.

[0011] Furthermore, since the multiple battery modules 10 in the battery pack are arranged such that at least two end plates 40 face each other, when heat, gas, flames, etc. generated inside the battery module 10 are discharged to the outside of the battery module 10, they may affect the performance and stability of multiple battery cells 11 in other adjacent battery modules 10.

[0012] Therefore, it is necessary to design a battery module 10 that prevents continuous thermal runaway by preventing heat, gas or flame generated inside the battery module 10 from being discharged to adjacent battery modules 10. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Technical issues

[0014] One object of the present invention is to provide a battery module and a battery pack including the battery module that have improved durability and safety by preventing continuous thermal runaway.

[0015] However, the technical problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and various extensions can be made within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0016] Technical solution

[0017] According to one aspect of the present invention, a battery module is provided, comprising: a battery cell stack, wherein a plurality of battery cells are stacked in one direction; a module frame for accommodating the battery cell stack; a busbar frame for covering a front or rear surface of the battery cell stack; and an end plate connected to the module frame and covering the busbar frame, wherein at least one opening is formed in the end plate, wherein a module connector is disposed in the opening of the end plate, and wherein the module connector is mounted on a surface of the busbar frame by a housing protecting the module connector.

[0018] The busbar frame may include a retainer for holding the module connector, and the retainer includes an end with an axially convex cross-section.

[0019] The retainer may include a first end and a second end that are separated in the axial direction.

[0020] The housing may be formed with a slot into which the retainer is inserted.

[0021] The module connector includes a retainer hole for inserting a retainer, the opening of which corresponds to the opening of the slot.

[0022] The retainer slides within the slot, allowing the retainer and housing to be slidably connected in one direction.

[0023] The diameter of at least a portion of the cross-section of the slot may be larger than the diameter of the opening of the retainer hole.

[0024] A first fastening hole is formed in the end plate, and a fastening member is inserted into the first fastening hole so that the housing and the end plate can be connected.

[0025] A second fastening hole corresponding to the first fastening hole is formed in the housing. The second fastening hole is located on the connecting surface of the housing, and the connecting surface can be a surface perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the battery cell stack.

[0026] The first fastening hole can be formed in two or more forms.

[0027] The sealing component can be located between the housing and the end plate.

[0028] The sealing member can have a closed curve shape with two ends connected.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, a battery pack comprising at least one of the battery modules described above is provided.

[0030] Beneficial effects

[0031] According to an embodiment of the present invention, by sealing the gap around the opening formed in the end plate of the battery module, it is possible to prevent thermal runaway occurring in one battery module from spreading to adjacent battery modules.

[0032] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and additional effects not described above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the state of a battery module installed on a conventional battery pack during ignition;

[0034] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The cross section AA, Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view showing the appearance of the flame affecting adjacent battery modules during the ignition of a battery module mounted on a conventional battery pack.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the battery module;

[0037] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the individual battery cells included in the battery module;

[0038] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the busbar frame included in the battery module;

[0039] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the end plate included in the battery module;

[0040] Figure 8 This is a diagram used to illustrate the connection structure of the module connectors included in conventional battery modules;

[0041] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A diagram of the sealing components included in the connector assembly;

[0043] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the connection between the connector assembly and the sensing unit included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 A sectional view cut by line CC;

[0045] Figures 13 to 15 This is a diagram illustrating the connection between the connector assembly and the busbar frame included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 16 and Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating the connection between the connector assembly and the end plate included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A diagram of the pads included in the battery module;

[0049] Figure 20 and Figure 21 It is used for explanation Figure 18 A diagram showing the connection between the gaskets and busbars included in the battery module;

[0050] Figure 22 and Figure 23 It is used for explanation Figure 18 A diagram showing the connection between the pads and end plates included in the battery module; and

[0051] Figures 24 to 26 This is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of the gasket included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0052] In the following, various embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can readily implement them. The invention can be modified in various different ways and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0053] Parts irrelevant to the description will be omitted in order to clearly describe the invention, and the same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the specification.

[0054] Furthermore, for ease of description, the dimensions and thicknesses of each element are arbitrarily described in the accompanying drawings, and the scope of this invention is not necessarily limited to those depicted in the drawings. For clarity, the thicknesses of layers, regions, etc., are exaggerated in the accompanying drawings. For ease of description, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated in the accompanying drawings.

[0055] Furthermore, it is understood that when an element such as a layer, membrane, region, or plate is referred to as being "on top of" or "above" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be intermediate elements present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, it implies that there are no other intermediate elements present. Additionally, the term "on top of" or "above" refers to being disposed on or below a reference portion, and does not necessarily mean being disposed "on top of" or "above" a reference portion facing the opposite direction of gravity. Similarly, the description of being located "on top of" or "above" another portion will also be understood with reference to the above.

[0056] Furthermore, throughout the specification, when a section is referred to as "comprising" or "containing" a certain ingredient, it means that the section may further include other ingredients without excluding them, unless otherwise stated.

[0057] Furthermore, throughout the instruction manual, when referred to as a "plane," it refers to the target portion as viewed from above, while when referred to as a "cross section," it refers to the target portion as viewed from the side of a vertically cut cross section.

[0058] A battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0059] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the battery module. Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the individual battery cells included in the battery module. Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the busbar frame included in the battery module. Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the end plate included in the battery module.

[0060] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a battery module 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a battery cell stack 120, wherein a plurality of battery cells 110 are stacked in one direction in the battery cell stack 120; a module frame 200 for housing the battery cell stack 120; a busbar frame 300 located on the front and / or rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 120; an end plate 400 covering the front and / or rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 120; busbars 510 and 520 mounted on the busbar frame 300 and a connector assembly 600; and a sensing unit 700.

[0061] The battery cell 110 can be configured in a pouch shape that maximizes the number of battery cells stacked per unit area. The pouch-shaped battery cell 110 can be manufactured by housing an electrode assembly, including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator, within a battery housing 114 of laminated plates, and then heat-sealing the sealing portion of the battery housing 114. However, it is evident that the battery cell 110 does not necessarily have to be pouch-shaped; it can be configured in a square, cylindrical, or other various forms, depending on the storage capacity required to achieve the desired future installation equipment.

[0062] refer to Figure 5 The battery cell 110 may include two electrode leads 111 and 112. Electrode leads 111 and 112 may each have a structure protruding from one end of the battery body 113. Specifically, one end of each electrode lead 111 and 112 is located inside the battery cell 110 and is therefore electrically connected to the positive or negative terminal of the electrode assembly. The other end of each electrode lead 111 and 112 protrudes to the outside of the battery cell 110 and can therefore be electrically connected to individual components, such as busbars 510 and 520.

[0063] The electrode assembly in the battery housing 114 can be sealed by sealing portions 114sa, 114sb and 114sc. The sealing portions 114sa, 114sb and 114sc of the battery housing 114 can be located on the two ends 114a and 114b and a side portion 114c connecting the two ends 114a and 114b.

[0064] The battery casing 114 is typically formed of a laminated structure of resin layer / metal film layer / resin layer. For example, when multiple battery cells 110 are stacked to form a medium or large battery module 100, the surface of the battery cell casing formed by the O (oriented)-nylon layer tends to slip easily due to external impact. Therefore, in order to prevent this slippage and maintain a stable stacked structure of the battery cells 110, adhesive members (e.g., adhesive such as double-sided tape) or chemical adhesives that are chemically bonded during bonding can be adhered to the surface of the battery casing 114 to form a battery cell stack 120.

[0065] The connecting portion 115 may refer to the region extending longitudinally at one end of the battery casing 114 where the aforementioned sealing portions 114sa, 114sb, and 114sc are not located. A protruding portion 110p of the battery cell 110, referred to as a "batwing ear," may be formed at the end of the connecting portion 115. Furthermore, the terrace part 116 may refer to the region between the battery electrode leads 111 and 112 (partially protruding outside the battery casing 114) and the battery body 113 located inside the battery casing 114, based on the edge of the battery casing 114.

[0066] Meanwhile, the battery cell 110 configured as a pouch type can have length, width and thickness, and the longitudinal direction, width direction and thickness direction of the battery cell 110 can be perpendicular to each other.

[0067] Here, the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110 can be defined according to the direction in which the electrode leads 111 and 112 protrude from the battery casing 114. The longitudinal direction of the battery cell 110 can be defined as the x-axis direction or the -x-axis direction.

[0068] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, the width direction of the battery cell 110 in this paper can be the z-axis direction or the -z-axis direction from one side 114c of the battery cell 110 to the connecting portion 115 or from the connecting portion 115 to one side 114c of the battery cell 110. Furthermore, the thickness direction of the battery cell 110 in this paper can be defined as the y-axis direction or the -y-axis direction perpendicular to both the width and length directions.

[0069] The battery cell stack 120 can be a stack of multiple electrically connected battery cells 110 stacked along one direction. The stacking direction of the multiple battery cells 110 (hereinafter referred to as the "stack direction") can be as follows: Figure 3 and Figure 4 The y-axis direction shown (or it may be the -y-axis direction; in the following text, the term "axial direction" can be interpreted as including all + / - directions).

[0070] The direction from the front surface to the rear surface of the battery cell stack 120, or its rearward direction, can be defined as the longitudinal direction of the battery cell stack 120, which can be the x-axis direction. Furthermore, the direction from the top surface to the bottom surface of the battery cell stack 120, or its rearward direction, can be defined as the width direction of the battery cell stack 120, which can be the z-axis direction.

[0071] The longitudinal direction of the battery cell stack 120 can be substantially the same as that of the battery cell 110. In this case, the electrode leads 111 and 112 of the battery cell 110 can be located on the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 120. At this time, the busbars 510 and 520 of the battery module 100 can be arranged close to the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 120 to facilitate the formation of electrical connections between the electrode leads 111 and 112.

[0072] The module frame 200 can be used to protect the battery cell stack 120 and the electrical components connected thereto from external physical impacts. The module frame 200 can be housed within the internal space of the battery cell stack 120 and the electrical equipment connected thereto. Here, the module frame 200 includes an inner surface and an outer surface, and the internal space of the module frame 200 can be defined by the inner surface.

[0073] The structure of the modular frame 200 can be varied. In one example, the modular frame 200 can be a single-frame structure. Here, the single frame can be an integral metal plate with an integrated upper surface, lower surface, and two side surfaces. The single frame can be manufactured by extrusion molding. In another example, the modular frame 200 can be a structure combining a U-shaped frame and an upper plate (upper surface). In the case of the U-shaped frame and upper plate combination structure, the structure of the modular frame 200 can be formed by connecting the upper plate to the upper side of the U-shaped frame, where the U-shaped frame is a metal plate with a combined or integrated lower surface and two sides. Each frame or plate can be manufactured by extrusion molding. Furthermore, in addition to a single frame or U-shaped frame, the structure of the modular frame 200 can also be an L-shaped frame structure, and can be configured with various structures not described in the above examples.

[0074] The module frame 200 can be configured with an opening along the longitudinal direction of the battery cell stack 120. The electrode leads 111 and 112 of the battery cells 110 may not be shielded by the module frame 200. The front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 120 may also not be shielded by the module frame 200. The front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 120 may be shielded by the busbar frame 300, end plate 400, busbars 510 and 520, etc., which will be described later. This protects the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 120 from external physical impacts, etc.

[0075] Simultaneously, the heat-conducting component 180 can be disposed between the battery cell stack 120 and the inner surface of the module frame 200. The heat-conducting component 180 can be used to dissipate / transfer heat generated in the battery cell 110 to the outside via the module frame 200. The heat-conducting component 180 can be formed of a material with excellent thermal conductivity. The heat-conducting component 180 may include an adhesive material. For example, the heat-conducting component 180 may include at least one of silicon-based materials, polyurethane-based materials, and acrylic-based materials.

[0076] The heat-conducting member 180 can be formed by injecting heat-conducting resin between a side surface of the inner surface of the battery cell stack 120 and the module frame 200. However, this is not always the case; the heat-conducting member 180 can be a plate-like member. The heat-conducting member 180 can be located on the z-axis of the battery cell stack 120, and the heat-conducting member 180 can be located between the bottom surface (or bottom) of the battery cell stack 120 and the module frame 200.

[0077] Furthermore, the compression pad 190 may be located between one side surface of the battery cell stack 120 and the inner surface of the module frame 200. In this case, the compression pad 190 may be located on the surface of the battery cell stack 120 on the y-axis and may face at least one surface of the two battery cells 110 at both ends of the battery cell stack 120.

[0078] The busbar frame 300 can be located on one surface of the battery cell stack 120 to cover one surface of the battery cell stack 120 while guiding the connection between the battery cell stack 120 and an external device. The busbar frame 300 can be located on the front or rear surface of the battery cell stack 120. At least one of the busbars 510 and 520 and the connector assembly 600 can be mounted on the busbar frame 300. As a specific example, see reference... Figure 3 and Figure 4 One surface of the busbar frame 300 is connected to the front or rear surface of the battery cell stack 120, and the other surface of the busbar frame 300 can be connected to the busbars 510 and 520 and the connector assembly 600. Furthermore, as... Figure 6 As shown, the busbar frame 300 may be formed with a retainer 302 for connection with the connector assembly 600.

[0079] The busbar frame 300 may include an electrically insulating material. The busbar frame 300 may restrict contact between the busbars 510 and 520 and other portions of the battery cell 110 except for the portions where the busbars 510 and 520 engage with the electrode leads 111 and 112, and may prevent electrical short circuits from occurring.

[0080] Busbar frames 300 can be formed in two and can include a first busbar frame (which may be referred to as reference numeral 300) located on the front surface of the battery cell stack 120 and a second busbar frame (not shown) located on the rear surface of the battery cell stack 120.

[0081] refer to Figure 6 According to this embodiment, the busbar frame 300 can be connected to the top cover 330 to form a busbar assembly. The top cover 330 can cover a portion having a size corresponding to the upper surface of the battery cell stack 120. During the process of accommodating the battery cell stack 120 within the module frame 200, the top cover 330 can protect the sensing unit 700, etc.

[0082] The top cover 330 can be connected to the busbar frame 300 at both ends in the longitudinal direction. A slot 306 can be formed in the upper part of the busbar frame 300, and locking portions 336 can be formed at both ends of the top cover 330 in the longitudinal direction. One end of the locking portion 336 can be inserted, so that the locking portion 336 and the slot 306 can be fastened together. The locking portion 336 can be U-shaped or V-shaped, and the upper end of the busbar frame 300 can be located inside the U-shaped bend. Locking claws protruding towards each other are formed at both ends of the U-shape of the locking portion 336, preventing the locking portion 336 from disengaging from the slot 306 after being fastened together. Simultaneously, the connection between the slot 306 and the locking portion 336 can be a fluid connection, allowing the busbar frame 300 to be rotatably connected to the top cover 330 via the slot 306 and the locking portion 336.

[0083] End plate 400 can be used to protect the battery cell stack 120 and the electrical equipment connected thereto from external physical impacts by sealing the open surface of the module frame 200. For this purpose, end plate 400 can be made of a material with a specified strength. For example, end plate 400 can include a metal such as aluminum.

[0084] End plate 400 can cover the busbar frame 300 or busbars 510 and 520 located on one surface of the cell stack 120 and simultaneously connect (join, seal, or hermetic) to module frame 200. Each edge of end plate 400 can be connected to the corresponding edge of module frame 200 by means such as welding.

[0085] refer to Figure 7 An insulating cover 800 for electrical insulation may be located between the end plate 400 and the busbar frame 300. The insulating cover 800 may be located on the inner surface of the end plate 400 and may be attached to the inner surface of the end plate 400, but this is not always the case.

[0086] End plates 400 can be formed in two, and can include a first end plate located on the front surface of the battery cell stack 120 and a second end plate located on the rear surface of the battery cell stack 120.

[0087] The first end plate can cover the first busbar frame on the front surface of the battery cell stack 120 and connect to the module frame 200 at the same time. The second end plate can cover the second busbar frame and connect to the module frame 200 at the same time.

[0088] Busbars 510 and 520 can be mounted on one surface of the busbar frame 300 and can be used to electrically connect the battery cell stack 120 or battery cell 110 to external device circuitry. Busbars 510 and 520 are located between the battery cell stack 120 or busbar frame 300 and the end plate 400, thereby protecting them from external impacts and minimizing durability degradation due to external moisture.

[0089] Busbars 510 and 520 can be electrically connected to the battery cell stack 120 via electrode leads 111 and 112 of the battery cells 110. Specifically, the electrode leads 111 and 112 of the battery cells 110 pass through slits formed in the busbar frame 300 and are then bent to connect (joint or link) to the busbars 510 and 520. There are no particular limitations on the method of joining the electrode leads 111 and 112 to the busbars 510 and 520, but welding can be applied as an example. The battery cells 110 constituting the battery cell stack 120 can be connected in series or in parallel via the busbars 510 and 520.

[0090] Busbars 510 and 520 may include a terminal busbar 520 for electrically connecting one battery module 100 to another battery module 100. At least a portion of the terminal busbar 520 may be exposed outside the end plate 400 for connection to another external battery module 100, and the end plate 400 may be provided with a terminal busbar opening 400H for this purpose. Furthermore, an insulating cover 800 connected to the end plate 400 may also have a corresponding second terminal busbar opening 800H.

[0091] The terminal busbar 520 may also include an upwardly projecting protrusion, which, unlike the other busbars 510, may be exposed to the outside of the battery module 100 via the terminal busbar opening 400H. The terminal busbar 520 may be connected to another battery module 100 or BDU (Battery Disconnect Unit) via the protrusion exposed through the terminal busbar opening 400H, and may form a high-voltage (HV) connection with another battery module 100 or BDU. Here, an HV connection functions as a power supply connection and refers to a connection between individual battery cells 110 or between battery modules 100.

[0092] The connector assembly 600 and sensing unit 700 can detect and control phenomena such as overvoltage, overcurrent, and overheating in the battery cell 110. The connector assembly 600 and sensing unit 700 are used for low-voltage (LV) connections, where an LV connection indicates a sensing connection used for sensing and controlling the voltage of the battery cell. Voltage and temperature information of the battery cell 110 can be transmitted to an external BMS (Battery Management System) via the connector assembly 600 and sensing unit 700.

[0093] Connector assembly 600 may include module connector 610. Module connector 610 can transmit collected data to an external control device and receive signals from the external control device. Module connector 610 can transmit data obtained from temperature sensor 730 and / or sensing terminal 720 to BMS (Battery Management System), which can control the charging and discharging of battery cells 110 based on the collected voltage data.

[0094] Connector assembly 600 can be mounted on busbar frame 300 as described above. Connector assembly 600 can be connected to retainer 302 of busbar frame 300. At least one portion of connector assembly 600 can be exposed to the outside of end plate 400, end plate 400 may be provided with module connector opening 400L for this purpose. A second module connector opening 800L corresponding to module connector opening 400L can also be provided in insulating cover 800 connected to end plate 400.

[0095] The sensing unit 700 may include a sensing terminal 720 for sensing the voltage values ​​of the busbars 510 and 520, a temperature sensor 730 for sensing the temperature inside the battery module 100, and a connecting member 710 for connecting the sensing terminal 720 and the temperature sensor 730.

[0096] Here, the connecting member 710 can be configured to extend longitudinally from the upper surface of the battery cell stack 120. The connecting member can be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) or a flexible flat cable (FFC).

[0097] Meanwhile, as described above, ignition may occur inside the battery module 100 in which battery cells 110 are stacked in a high density. When ignition occurs in a battery module 100, gases and the like are discharged through openings 400H and 400L provided in the end plate, thereby damaging terminal busbars 520, etc., and the heat, gases, or flames of the battery module 100 are transferred to battery modules 100 adjacent to it, thereby causing continuous ignition.

[0098] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the connection structure of the module connectors included in conventional battery modules.

[0099] refer to Figure 8 The conventional battery module 10 may be provided with a module connector 60 that connects to the sensing unit 70. The module connector 60 may be disposed between the busbar frame 30 and the end plate 40 in the completed battery module 10. Here, a connector gasket 62 may be provided around the module connector 60 to seal the gap between the opening formed in the end plate 40 and the module connector 60.

[0100] However, due to the narrow width of the connector pad 62 provided in the conventional battery module 10, it is difficult to ensure a wide hermetically sealed surface B1 between the end plate 40 and the module connector 60. Furthermore, depending on the size difference B2 of the battery cell 11, the connector pad 62 may be compressed in the longitudinal direction of the battery cell 11 during assembly, but this may result in a narrow allowable range for the connector pad 62.

[0101] Therefore, in the following text, a connector assembly 600 will be described that can more stably install the module connector inside the battery module, form a wide airtight surface with the end plate, and flexibly accommodate the size differences of the battery cells.

[0102] However, when describing the relationship between the end plate 400 and other components in this invention, the end plate 400 can be interpreted as including an insulating cover 800 or other components attached / connected to the inner surface of the end plate 400. For example, the gap between the module connector opening 400L and the module connector 610 can be interpreted as the gap between the second module connector opening 800L and the module connector 610. As another example, the gap space between the housing 620 and the end plate 400 can be interpreted as the gap space between the housing 620 and the insulating cover 800.

[0103] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A diagram of the sealing components included in the connector assembly. Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the connection between the connector assembly and the sensing unit included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 A cross-sectional view taken by the CC line.

[0104] refer to Figures 9 to 12 The connector assembly 600 according to this embodiment may include a module connector 610 and a housing 620. The function and role of the module connector 610 will be described above; the housing 620 will be described in detail below.

[0105] The housing 620 protects the module connector 610 from external influences. The outer surface of the module connector 610 can be blocked by the housing 620 from external moisture or air. The housing 620 can surround the module connector 610. The housing 620 can be an injection-molded product manufactured by applying an over-molding process to the module connector 610. The housing 620 can be integrated with the module connector 610. The housing 620 can be integrated with the module connector 610 to form a connector assembly 600.

[0106] The housing 620 can be used to seal the gap between the module connector 610 and the module connector opening 400L of the end plate 400. For ease of assembly or manufacturing reasons, the size of the module connector opening 400L can be larger than the size of the exposed portion of the module connector 610. When the battery module 100 is ignited internally, gases, sparks, flames, etc., can be discharged to the outside through this gap. The housing 620 can have an upper surface surrounding the periphery of the module connector 610 and extending from the periphery of the exposed portion of the module connector 610. Since the upper surface of the housing 620 is formed to correspond to the inner surface of the end plate 400, the gap between the module connector opening 400L and the module connector 610 can be filled, buried, or shielded within the housing 620. In this case, the size of the upper surface of the connector assembly 600 can be larger than the size of the module connector opening 400L.

[0107] The housing 620 can be used to broadly form an airtight surface between the module connector 610 and the end plate 400. Since the housing 620 is formed to correspond to the inner surface of the end plate 400, the module connector 610 can contact the end plate 400 or the like on a wide surface via the housing 620, or can be located near it. Therefore, when using a conventional connector gasket 62 with a narrow width, the housing 620 of this embodiment can broadly form an airtight surface between the module connector 610 and the end plate 400. The connector assembly 600 can be stably connected, fixed, and supported to the end plate 400 via the housing 620.

[0108] In this case, the surface of the housing 620 that contacts or is near the end plate 400 can be referred to as the corresponding surface. Specifically, such as Figure 12 As shown, the connector assembly 600 may have a stepped cross-section, and one surface of the housing 620 forming the stepped shape, for example, the upper surface confirmed when the housing 620 is viewed from above (on the z-axis) or the front surface confirmed when the housing 620 is viewed from the front (on the x-axis), may contact or be located near the battery end plate 400 in the completed body of the battery module 100. In this way, the corresponding surface of the housing 620 can be interpreted as including at least a portion of the surface of the housing 620 forming the stepped shape. Furthermore, these corresponding surfaces may be referenced... Figure 17 More detailed confirmation will be provided later.

[0109] The housing 620 can be used to connect (or mount) the module connector 610 to the interior of the battery module 100. The housing 620 can be used to connect the module connector 610 to the busbar frame 300 and the end plate 400. The housing 620 can be used to position the module connector 610 between the busbar frame 300 and the end plate 400. The housing 620 can be mounted to the busbar frame 300 via a slot 622 and connected to the end plate 400 via a connection hole 624. Detailed descriptions of the slot 622 and the connection hole 624 will be referenced below. Figures 13 to 17 Provided.

[0110] Meanwhile, the housing 620 is formed to cover at least a portion of the module connector opening 400L of the end plate 400, and can be configured to correspond to the shape of the inner surface of the end plate 400. However, due to various reasons in the manufacturing process, the detailed dimensions of the final product may differ from the designed dimensions, which may result in a gap space between the housing 620 and the end plate 400 after assembly. This gap space can cause flow between the housing 620 and the end plate 400, and there is a risk of reducing the sealing performance of the housing 620 and the end plate 400. Therefore, a sealing member 630 for improving the sealing performance between the housing 620 and the end plate 400 can be provided in the connector assembly 600 of this embodiment. Here, the connector assembly 600 can be described as including the sealing member 630. In addition, "gap space" and "gap" can be understood as different from each other herein, but can be collectively referred to as the general term "gap" in a broad category.

[0111] The sealing member 630 can form a seal between the housing 620 and the end plate 400. The sealing member 630 can fill the gap between the housing 620 and the end plate 400 by contacting them. The sealing member 630 can create a gap space between the housing 620 and the end plate 400 in the completed battery module 100, thereby preventing the two members from moving relative to each other. The housing 620 and the end plate 400 can be fixed to each other and supported by the sealing member 630. Furthermore, the sealing member 630 can prevent gas from escaping through the openings 400L and 400H formed in the end plate 400 by allowing gas to move along the gap space, etc.

[0112] A sealing member 630 may be disposed on a corresponding surface of the housing 620. At least a portion of the sealing member 630 may protrude from the corresponding surface of the housing 620. This can be used to bring the sealing member 630, located on one surface of the housing 620, into contact with the end plate 400. This is because the sealing member 630, located on one surface of the housing 620, is pressed by the end plate 400, allowing the housing 620 and the end plate 400 to be fixed to each other. The sealing member 630 may be disposed at a distance from the terminals of the module connector 610. This can be considered for the corresponding surface of the housing 620 extending broadly around the terminals of the module connector 610. Furthermore, the housing 620 may be provided with a groove for arranging the sealing member 630 in a fixed position, and the position of the sealing member 630 may be fixed by the groove formed in the housing 620.

[0113] refer to Figure 10 The sealing member 630 can have a linear or strip-like shape. Specifically, the sealing member 630 can be in the form of a closed curve connecting the ends of two terminals. When the sealing member 630 has a closed curve shape, the overall shape of the sealing member 630 does not deform, so assembly or design can be easy. However, since the shape of the sealing member 630 is not limited by the above figure, it is obvious that the sealing member 630 can be set in various shapes, such as a planar shape.

[0114] Perspective on the x-axis is ignored. Figure 10 In the front view of (c), the sealing member 630 is shown as having a generally rectangular shape, but as in Figure 10 As shown in the side view of (b), the sealing member 630 can have a stepped shape by means of a predetermined cross section across the x-axis. This can correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the corresponding surface of the housing 620 described above.

[0115] The sealing member 630 can be an elastomer. The sealing member 630 can partially cover the slightly variable gap space between the housing 620 and the end plate 400 by being partially compressed by an external force. Similarly, even if the sealing member 630 is designed to be slightly larger than the usual size of the gap space, its size can be adjusted by compression. Here, this size can refer to thickness or height. Figure 10 (The x-axis direction is used as a reference). The sealing member 630 can be made of heat-resistant or flame-retardant materials to prevent damage from charging / discharging or thermal runaway of the battery cell 110. Specifically, the sealing member 630 can be made of flame-retardant foam, resin, silicone, rubber or other similar materials.

[0116] At the same time, refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12The connector assembly 600 described above can be connected to the sensing unit 700. The connection method between the connector assembly 600 and the sensing unit 700 is not particularly limited, but as an example, a soldering joint such as tin soldering can be applied.

[0117] Next, the connection between the connector assembly 600 and the busbar frame 300 will be described.

[0118] Figures 13 to 15 This is a diagram illustrating the connection between the connector assembly and the busbar frame included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] like Figures 13 to 15 As shown, the housing 620 may include a slot 622 forming a connection between the module connector 610 and the busbar frame 300. Typically, an annular retainer hole 612 may be formed in the module connector 610, and a retainer 302 of the busbar frame 300 may be inserted into the retainer hole 612, allowing the module connector 610 and the busbar frame 300 to be interconnected. Figure 6 As shown, the retainer 302 can be in the form of a rod protruding from one surface of the busbar frame 300.

[0120] The slot 622 can be in the form of a hole through the housing 620, and the opening of the slot 622 can correspond to the opening of the retainer hole 612. The retainer 302 can be inserted into the slot 622 corresponding to the retainer hole 612, thereby connecting the housing 620 and the busbar frame 300. Here, since the retainer 302 is movable along the hole inside the slot of the housing 620, the connector assembly 600 can be slidably connected to the busbar frame 300.

[0121] The connector assembly 600 and the busbar frame 300 are slidably connected via a slot 622, thereby allowing adjustment of the relative distance between the connector assembly 600 and the busbar frame 300. Specifically, when a compressive force is applied from the battery cell 110 in the longitudinal direction (x-axis direction) due to differences in the size of the battery cell 110, the connector assembly 600 can move appropriately from the busbar frame 300 according to the compressive force.

[0122] The connector assembly 600 is movable relative to the busbar frame 300 in one direction via the slot 622. Specifically, the retainer 302 is located inside the slot 622, and the connector assembly 600 moves along the length of the retainer 302 in the longitudinal direction (x-axis direction) of the cell stack 120, thereby preventing the connector assembly 600 from flowing vertically (z-axis) or horizontally (y-axis) relative to the busbar frame 300 via the slot 622.

[0123] At the same time, such as Figure 6As shown, the end of the retainer 302 can be designed to have a larger diameter than other parts, thereby preventing the retainer hole 612 from separating from the retainer 302. Here, based on the axial cross-section of the retainer 302, the end of the retainer 302 can have a protruding shape or a dome shape. Furthermore, the end of the retainer 302 here can have a tapered shape that becomes narrower as it approaches the end.

[0124] At least a portion of the end of the retainer 302 can be separated. The end of the retainer 302 may include two axially cut portions, and these two portions may be positioned so that their axial cross-sections face each other. This may be to adjust the diameter of the end of the retainer 302 by separating or abutting between the two separated portions. When adjusting the diameter of the end of the retainer 302, the end of the retainer 302 with a relatively large diameter may not prevent the retainer 302 from being inserted into the retainer hole 612. Furthermore, after the retainer 302 is inserted into the retainer hole 612, the diameter of the end of the retainer 302 may increase when the two portions are separated. Thus, since the retainer hole 612 and the end of the retainer 302 are in contact with each other, disengagement between the two components can be prevented. Here, the end of the retainer 302 may be referred to as the "end," and the two axially cut portions may be referred to as the first end and the second end.

[0125] Reference Figure 15 When the end of the retainer 302 has two independent portions, the end of the retainer 302 can be adjusted according to the size of the inner diameter of the slot 622. The diameter of at least a portion of the cross-section of the slot 622 can be larger than the opening diameter of the retainer hole 612. The diameter of at least a portion of the cross-section of the slot 622 can be larger than the diameter of the inner circumferential surface of the retainer hole 612. The diameter of at least a portion of the cross-section of the slot 622 can be larger than the diameter of the outer circumferential surface of the retainer hole 612. For example, if the diameter of the first section of the slot 622 is larger than the opening diameter of the retainer hole 612, the two ends of the axially cut end of the retainer 302 in the first section can be widened, thereby allowing the rear surface of the end of the retainer 302 to easily abut against the retainer hole 612. Here, the first section can be the section of the slot 622 closest to the retainer hole 612. Furthermore, the end of the retainer 302 has a tapered shape that narrows as it approaches its end, making it likely easy for it to exit the first section within the slot 622 and enter the second section with a relatively narrow diameter. In this case, the second section is preferably located outside the first section, either in the direction towards the outside of the battery module 100 or in the direction where the end plate 400 is located.

[0126] Next, the connection between connector assembly 600 and end plate 400 will be described.

[0127] Figure 16 and Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating the connection between the connector assembly and the end plate included in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, housing 620 may include connection holes 624 for connecting module connector 610 and end plate 400.

[0129] A connection hole 624 may be formed on a connection surface of the housing 620. Here, the connection surface may refer to a surface extending in the vertical (z-axis) direction from the body portion used to accommodate the module connector 610 within the housing 620. The connection surface may be a surface perpendicular to the longitudinal (x-axis) direction of the battery cell stack 120. The connection surface may be a surface corresponding to the end plate 400. The connection surface may be a surface in contact with the end plate 400. Here, as described above, contact with the end plate 400 may refer to contact with a component attached to the end plate 400 (e.g., an insulating cover 800).

[0130] The connecting hole 624 can be one or more, preferably two or more, or four or more. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the connecting holes 624 can be located near each vertex on the front surface of the housing 620. The connecting holes 624 can be formed on all sides of the housing 620, thereby stably securing the housing 620.

[0131] See Figure 16 and Figure 17 An end plate connection hole 404 can be formed in the end plate 400. Based on the completed battery module 100, the position of the end plate connection hole 404 in the end plate 400 can correspond to the position of the connection hole 624 in the housing 620. A fastening member 440 can be inserted from the outer surface of the end plate 400 into the end plate connection hole 404. When the fastening member 440 is inserted into the connection hole 624, the end plate 400 and the housing 620 can be secured. Here, the outer surface of the end plate 400 can be the surface facing outwards from the end plate 400 towards the outside of the battery module 100. Furthermore, the fastening member 440 here can be a bolt, screw, or other component.

[0132] Depending on the order in which the fastening members 440 are inserted, the end plate connecting hole 404 can be referred to as the first fastening hole, and the connecting hole 624 can be referred to as the second fastening hole. Furthermore, the aforementioned end plate connecting holes 404 and / or connecting holes 624 can be pre-formed before the assembly of the battery module 100, but they can also be formed by inserting the fastening members 440 during the assembly process. Additionally, the aforementioned end plate connecting holes 404 and / or connecting holes 624 may be provided with internal threads or grooves corresponding to the external threads of the fastening members 440, but this is not mandatory.

[0133] Meanwhile, in the end plate 400 of the aforementioned battery module 100, in addition to the module connector opening 400L, a terminal busbar opening 400H can also be formed. Therefore, even if the module connector opening 400L is sealed by the connector assembly 600, gases, sparks, flames, etc., can still be discharged into the terminal busbar opening 400H when ignited inside the battery module 100, thereby causing a continuous thermal runaway phenomenon.

[0134] Therefore, the following text will describe a gasket 900 that can seal the terminal busbar opening 400H and effectively cope with increased internal pressure.

[0135] Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A diagram of the pads included in the battery module. Figure 20 and Figure 21 It is used for explanation Figure 18 The diagram shows the connection between the pads and busbars included in the battery module. Figure 22 and Figure 23 It is used for explanation Figure 18 The diagram shows the connection between the pads and end plates included in the battery module. Here, Figure 18 The battery module with the end plates omitted is shown.

[0136] at the same time, Figure 18 The battery module 100 can be described as including, in addition to the pad 900, the components as described above. Figures 3 to 17 All content above will be omitted, therefore, detailed descriptions of content that is repeated above will be omitted.

[0137] The size of the terminal busbar opening 400H is primarily determined by the perimeter of the terminal busbar 520. However, for ease of assembly or manufacturing reasons, the size of the terminal busbar opening 400H may be larger than the cross-sectional size of the terminal busbar 520. Gases, sparks, flames, etc., can escape to the outside through this gap. Moreover, if the busbar frame 300 and end plate 400 around the terminal busbar 520 protruding outside the battery module 100 are not in complete and tight contact with each other, gases, etc., will concentrate in this gap space when ignited inside the battery module 100, leading to problems such as gas escape through the terminal busbar opening 400H. However, the gasket 900 of this embodiment can form a seal around the terminal busbar 520, thereby minimizing gas escape through the terminal busbar opening 400H.

[0138] See Figures 18 to 23In this embodiment, the gasket 900 can form a seal between the terminal busbar 520 and the terminal busbar opening 400H. The gasket 900 can seal the gap between the protrusion of the terminal busbar 520 and the terminal busbar opening 400H. The gasket 900 can form a seal around the terminal busbar opening 400H between the busbar frame 300 and the end plate 400. The gasket 900 can seal the gap space around the terminal busbar 520.

[0139] The gasket 900 can be assembled to the terminal busbar 520 before the end plate 400 is assembled. One end of the terminal busbar 520 can protrude through the gasket 900 via the gasket hole 910.

[0140] The gasket 900 may include: a gasket hole 910 into which a terminal busbar 520 may be inserted; a lip part 920 formed around the gasket hole 910; and a contact part 930 extending from the gasket hole 910.

[0141] The lip 920 of the gasket 900 can make close contact with the protrusion of the terminal busbar 520. The lip 920 can be a portion extending from the periphery of the gasket hole 910 in the protruding direction (x-axis direction) of the terminal busbar 520. The lip 920 can be a stepped portion in the gasket 900. (See reference...) Figure 22 The terminal busbar 520 is located inside the lip 920, while the opening 400H or the interior of the hole in the terminal busbar can be located outside the lip 920. The inner surface of the lip 920 is in close contact with the periphery of the terminal busbar 520, and the outer surface of the lip 920 can be in close contact with the opening 400H or the interior of the opening. Thus, the gap between the terminal busbar 520 and the opening 400H can be filled by a gasket 900. The gasket 900 prevents gas from escaping through the opening 400H. The gasket 900 also prevents relative movement between the protrusions of the terminal busbar 520 and the opening 400H, and prevents the two parts from colliding due to external forces.

[0142] The contact portion 930 of the gasket 900 may be a portion that radially extends or extends from the periphery of the gasket hole 910. The contact portion 930 includes: a first contact surface 932 that contacts the outer surface of the busbar frame 300 at the periphery of the terminal busbar 520; and a second contact surface 934 that contacts the inner surface of the end plate 400. Here, the inner surface or the outer surface may be described as a surface facing the interior of the battery module 100 or a surface facing the exterior of the battery module 100 in each component. Furthermore, as mentioned above, contact with the end plate 400 may refer to contact with a component attached to the end plate 400 (e.g., the insulating cover 800).

[0143] like Figure 22As shown, the contact portion 930 can be located between the busbar frame 300 and the end plate 400, and the gap between the two components can be filled. The gasket 900 allows gas to move along the gap space, thereby preventing gas from escaping through the terminal busbar opening 400H. The busbar frame 300 and the end plate 400 can be fixed to each other by the gasket 900 and the busbar frame 300 and the end plate 400 can support each other. Furthermore, even if the lip 920 and the terminal busbar opening 400H are slightly separated from each other according to the thickness of the lip 920, the contact portion 930 can fill the separated space. Therefore, a more complete seal can be formed between the terminal busbar 520 and the terminal busbar opening 400H by the contact portion 930.

[0144] The liner 900 can be an elastomer. The liner 900 can cover slightly variable gaps or gap spaces by being partially compressed by an external force. Furthermore, since the liner 900, as an elastomer, can be compressed even if it is designed to be slightly larger than the normal size it is supposed to cover, the size of the liner 900 can be adjusted. The liner 900 can be made of heat-resistant or flame-retardant materials, which can be to prevent damage from the charging / discharging or thermal runaway phenomena of the battery cell 110. Specifically, the liner 900 can be made of flame-retardant foam, resin, silicone, rubber, or other similar materials.

[0145] Simultaneously, depending on the size of the battery cell 110, or due to the increase in internal pressure caused by the internal ignition of the battery module 100, a compressive force in the longitudinal direction (x-axis) of the battery cell stack 120 can act on the gasket 900. To cope with such a compressive force, the gasket 900 in this embodiment may include a protrusion 940. Here, the protrusion 940 may be referred to as an embossed portion, a protrusion, a projection, etc.

[0146] The protrusion 940 can effectively withstand longitudinal (x-axis) compressive forces acting on the battery cell stack 120. As mentioned above, since the gasket 900 can be configured as an elastomer, it can withstand compressive forces to a certain extent. However, when large internal pressures occur, such as during the charging / discharging or thermal runaway of the battery cell 110, it may not be able to effectively seal the periphery of the protrusion of the terminal busbar 520 due to physical or chemical deformation. Therefore, preferably, the gasket 900 is provided with the protrusion 940. The gasket 900 includes the protrusion 940, thereby improving compressibility and effectively sealing the periphery of the protrusion of the terminal busbar 520 even during internal ignition.

[0147] The protrusion 940 may be a portion protruding from the first contact surface 932 or the second contact surface 934 of the contact portion 930. The protrusion 940 may be a portion protruding from the contact portion 930 toward the interior or exterior of the battery module 100. Since the protrusion 940 can be partially compressed in response to the aforementioned compressive force, it can partially absorb the external force transmitted to the end plate 400 due to the increase in internal pressure. Furthermore, the gap space between the busbar frame 300 and the end plate 400, i.e., the distance between the two components, may be larger than the thickness of the contact portion 930. However, since the protrusion 940 protrudes from one surface of the contact portion 930 and contacts the busbar frame 300 or the end plate 400, this dimensional difference can be compensated. Here, the protrusion 940 may be formed on both the first contact surface 932 and the second contact surface 934 of the contact portion 930, or it may be formed on only one of the two surfaces of the contact portion 930. Furthermore, the height of the protrusion 940 formed on each surface of the contact portion 930 may be different from each other. Furthermore, as mentioned above, contact with end plate 400 can refer to contact with a component attached to end plate 400 (e.g., insulating cover 800).

[0148] The protrusion 940 can be configured to include a plurality of shapes radially spaced apart from each other around the gasket hole 910. That is, the protrusion 940 can be configured as a concentric pattern. Each protrusion 940 can be positioned at a fixed interval, which may be to uniformly cover the first contact surface 932 and the second contact surface 934 of the contact portion 930. Since the shape of the protrusion 940 is not limited by the above figure, the shape of the protrusion 940 can be different from the shape shown in the figure.

[0149] The height of the protrusions included in protrusion 940 (in terms of...) Figure 19 Based on the x-axis direction, the height of the protrusion can be constant or variable. For example, the height of the protrusion can be constant, with a value within 1 mm. Specifically, considering the distance between the gasket 900 and the busbar frame 300 or end plate 400, a height of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm may be desirable. In another example, the height of the protrusion can gradually increase or decrease as the protrusion moves away from the gasket hole 910. In other words, the protrusion 940 can be configured to have a stepped cross-section. In this case, the dimensional differences appearing around the terminal busbar opening 400H can be more effectively compensated when the height of the gasket hole 910 gradually decreases as it is formed.

[0150] Meanwhile, the description of the protrusion 940 does not preclude the provision of an example in the battery module 100 of this embodiment where a pad 900 without the protrusion 940 is provided.

[0151] Figures 24 to 26 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another embodiment of the pad included in a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] Reference Figures 24 to 26 In this embodiment, a pad 900 without a protrusion 940 can be provided in the battery module 100. Since the pad 900 in this embodiment can be provided as described above... Figures 18 to 23 The description is intended to be understood from the given information, therefore its detailed description will be omitted.

[0153] Meanwhile, the aforementioned battery module 100 can be included in a battery pack. The battery pack can have a structure in which one or more battery modules according to embodiments of the present invention are aggregated and encapsulated together with a battery management system (BMS) and a cooling device for controlling and managing the temperature, voltage, etc. of the battery.

[0154] The aforementioned battery module and battery pack including the battery module can be applied to various devices. Such devices can be applied to vehicle systems of electric bicycles, electric vehicles, or hybrid vehicles, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and can be applied to various devices capable of using battery modules and battery packs including the battery modules, which also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0155] Although the present invention has been shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments, the scope of the invention is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art can design various changes and modifications based on the principles of the invention as defined in the appended claims, which also fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0156] [Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures]

[0157] 100: Battery Module

[0158] 110: Battery cell

[0159] 111, 112: Electrode leads

[0160] 120: Battery cell stack

[0161] 200: Module Framework

[0162] 300: Busbar Frame

[0163] 302: Retainer

[0164] 306: Slit

[0165] 330: Top Cover

[0166] 336: Locking Department

[0167] 400: End plate

[0168] 400H: Terminal busbar opening

[0169] 400L: Module connector opening

[0170] 404: Connector housing fastening hole

[0171] 440: Fastening components

[0172] 510: Busbar

[0173] 520: Terminal busbar

[0174] 600: Connector assembly

[0175] 610: Module Connector

[0176] 612: Retainer hole

[0177] 620: Casing

[0178] 622: Slot

[0179] 624: Connecting hole

[0180] 630: Sealing components

[0181] 700: Sensing Unit

[0182] 710: Connecting components

[0183] 720: Sensing Terminal

[0184] 730: Temperature sensor

[0185] 800: Insulating cover

[0186] 900: Padding

[0187] 910: Gasket Hole

[0188] 920: Lips

[0189] 930: Contact Department

[0190] 940: Protrusion

Claims

1.A battery module comprising: a cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked in one direction; a module frame for accommodating the cell stack; a busbar frame for covering a front surface or a rear surface of the cell stack; and an end plate coupled to the module frame and covering the busbar frame, wherein at least one opening is formed in the end plate, wherein a module connector is disposed in the opening of the end plate, and wherein the module connector is mounted on one surface of the busbar frame through a case that protects the module connector, wherein the case surrounds a periphery of the module connector and includes an upper surface extending from a periphery of an exposed portion of the module connector, wherein the case seals a gap between the module connector and the opening. 2.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the busbar frame includes a holder for holding the module connector, and the holder includes a tip whose axial cross section is convex. 3.The battery module of claim 2, wherein the tip of the holder includes a first tip and a second tip that are separated in an axial direction. 4.The battery module of claim 2, wherein the case is formed with a slot into which the holder is inserted. 5.The battery module of claim 4, wherein the module connector includes a holder hole into which the holder is inserted, and an opening of the holder hole corresponds to an opening of the slot. 6.The battery module of claim 4, wherein the holder slides within the slot, such that the holder and the case are slidably coupled in one direction. 7.The battery module of claim 5, wherein a diameter of at least a part of a cross section of the slot is greater than a diameter of the opening of the holder hole. 8.The battery module of claim 1, wherein a first fastening hole is formed in the end plate, and a fastening member is inserted into the first fastening hole, such that the case and the end plate are coupled. 9.The battery module of claim 8, wherein a second fastening hole corresponding to the first fastening hole is formed in the case, the second fastening hole is located on a coupling surface of the case, and the coupling surface is a surface perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the cell stack. 10.The battery module of claim 8, wherein the first fastening hole is formed in two or more. 11.The battery module of claim 1, wherein a sealing member is located between the case and the end plate. 12.The battery module of claim 11, wherein the sealing member has a closed curve shape with two tips coupled. 13.A battery pack including at least one battery module of claim 1. ​

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