Battery module

Abstract

A battery module includes a module including a series of battery stacks each having a series of unit cells arranged in a first direction, and an insulating member insulating at least one unit cell. The battery module further includes a module housing and a series of receiving parts in the module housing accommodating the battery stacks. Each receiving part includes a fixing wall around the corresponding battery stack and having a portion in contact with the battery stack. The fixing wall includes a pair of end walls at opposite ends of the receiving part in the first direction. The pair of end walls is configured to engage respective end surfaces of the corresponding battery stack in the first direction. The battery module further includes a cooling channel under a floor surface of the module housing for coolant flow to cool the receiving parts and the battery stacks.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application filed on October 17, 2019, with application number 201910990468.2 and entitled "Battery Module". Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to battery modules, and to battery modules comprising multiple battery stacks formed by multiple unit cells. Background Technology

[0003] The difference between rechargeable batteries or secondary batteries and primary batteries is that rechargeable batteries are reusable, while primary batteries only provide an irreversible transformation from chemical materials to electrical energy. Low-capacity rechargeable batteries can be used as power sources for small electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, computers, and portable cameras, while high-capacity rechargeable batteries can be used as power sources for hybrid vehicles, etc.

[0004] A secondary battery may include an electrode assembly comprising a positive electrode, a negative electrode and a separator inserted between the positive and negative electrodes, a housing containing the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals electrically connected to the electrode assembly.

[0005] An electrolyte solution is injected into the casing, enabling the battery to be rechargeable and rechargeable through electrochemical reactions between the positive electrode, negative electrode, and electrolyte solution. For example, the casing can be cylindrical or rectangular in shape, depending on the intended use of the battery.

[0006] Rechargeable batteries can be used in the form of battery stacks comprising multiple unit cells connected in series or in parallel, thereby providing high energy density, for example, for the drive of hybrid vehicles.

[0007] In addition, with the development of technology, the amount of electricity required by electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and other energy-consuming devices is increasing, and multiple battery modules can be provided to meet this amount of electricity.

[0008] Therefore, the development of a new modular structure is an important task. This new modular structure can simplify components, effectively reduce manufacturing costs and weight, and enable the manufacturing process to be carried out efficiently, while providing multiple battery stacks that can meet the power requirements of power-consuming devices.

[0009] The information disclosed in this background section is only intended to enhance the understanding of the background of the present invention, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art in this country. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This invention aims to provide a large battery module that effectively increases power output by including multiple battery stacks and improves manufacturing processes while simplifying components. A battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention includes at least one module comprising a series of battery stacks, each of the battery stacks including a series of unit cells arranged in a first direction and an insulating member insulating at least one of the unit cells. The battery module also includes a module housing and a series of receiving members configured within the module housing to receive the series of battery stacks. Each of the receiving members includes a retaining wall surrounding a corresponding battery stack in the series of battery stacks, the retaining wall including a pair of end walls at opposite ends of the receiving member in the first direction. The pair of end walls are configured to engage corresponding end surfaces of the corresponding battery stacks in the first direction. Cooling channels for coolant flow to cool the series of receiving members and the series of battery stacks are located below the surface of the bottom plate of the module housing.

[0011] The cooling plate can be attached to the bottom surface of the module housing, and the cooling channels can be defined within the cooling plate.

[0012] The cooling channel may include at least one sidewall that projects downward and surrounds the surface of the base plate. The at least one sidewall may define the cooling channel. The at least one module may also include a channel cover that is coupled to the lower end of the at least one sidewall to close and seal the cooling channel.

[0013] The at least one sidewall of the cooling channel may be integral with the surface of the base plate.

[0014] The at least one module may include a first module and a second module that is adjacent to and connected to the first module.

[0015] The battery module may also include: a coupling component for connecting the module housing of the first module to the module housing of the second module; and a coolant line for connecting to a cooling channel in the module housing of each of the first and second modules.

[0016] The housing of the first module can be connected to the housing of the second module in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the coolant pipeline can extend in the second direction and include a series of port connection holes, which are spaced apart from each other along the length of the coolant pipeline and connected to the cooling channel of each of the first and second modules.

[0017] The connecting components may include a first connecting component in a first wall of the module housing of the first module and a second connecting component in a second wall of the module housing of the second module. The first wall is spaced apart from the second wall in a second direction.

[0018] The coolant lines may include: an inlet line configured to supply coolant to a cooling channel; and an outlet line through which coolant is discharged from the cooling channel. The inlet line is connected to one side of the cooling channel of each of the first and second modules, and the outlet line is connected to the other side of the cooling channel of each of the first and second modules, with said one side and said other side of the cooling channel being on opposite sides along a first direction.

[0019] At least one of the series of port connection holes may have a different diameter than at least one of the other port connection holes in the series.

[0020] The module housing may further include a partition wall extending in a first direction and dividing the internal space surrounded by the outer wall of the module housing to form the plurality of receiving components. The partition wall may define a portion of a fixed wall of each of the series of receiving components at a side portion along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The partition wall may contact the side surface of a pair of battery stacks in a respective receiving component of the series of receiving components.

[0021] The end wall of the pair of end walls facing the outer wall of the module housing can be spaced apart from the outer wall along a first direction and can define a first impact absorption space between the end wall and the outer wall.

[0022] The series of receiving components may include two receiving components that are adjacent to each other along a first direction, wherein the end walls of the two receiving components that face each other in the first direction may be spaced apart from each other to define a second impact absorption space between the end walls.

[0023] Each of the series of battery stacks may further include a pair of end supports at opposite ends in a first direction, and the pair of end supports may have an outer surface corresponding to the end surface.

[0024] The end wall can be bent outwards to separate the central portion of the end wall from the end surface, and the end surface can be recessed inwards to separate the central portion of the end surface from the end wall.

[0025] At least one end wall may include a series of first ribs projecting from the outer surface in a first direction. The plurality of first ribs may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction and may extend upward in a third direction perpendicular to each of the first and second directions.

[0026] At least one of the pair of end supports may include a series of second ribs that protrude from the end surface toward the at least one end wall and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction and a third direction.

[0027] The series of second ribs can have a lattice structure.

[0028] According to embodiments of the present invention, by including multiple battery stacks, the power output can be effectively increased, and the manufacturing process can be effectively improved while simplifying the components. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a view showing a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a view showing a receiving component in a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a schematic view illustrating a cooling channel in a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 4 This is a view of the cooling channels in a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when viewed from below.

[0033] Figure 5 This is a view showing a diagram in which battery modules according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention are connected to each other.

[0034] Figure 6 The battery modules shown are connected in a plurality of configurations according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, and coolant lines are connected.

[0035] Figure 7 The port connection hole of the coolant line in the battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown to be connected to the cooling channel.

[0036] Figure 8 A connection port connected to a port connection hole is shown in a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 9 This is a view showing the end wall and end support in a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 10 This is a view showing the shape of the end wall in a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 11 This is a view showing the end surface of an end support in a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 12This is a view showing a diagram in which battery modules according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention are connected to each other. Detailed Implementation

[0041] In the following detailed description, only certain exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown and described by way of illustration.

[0042] As those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments can be modified in various ways without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the drawings and description are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in nature. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0043] In this specification, repeated descriptions of the same parts will be omitted.

[0044] Furthermore, it will be understood in this specification that when a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or connected to the other component with another component inserted between them. On the other hand, it will be understood in this specification that when a component is referred to as being "directly connected to" another component, it can be connected to the other component without any other component inserted between them.

[0045] Furthermore, the terminology used in this specification is used only to describe particular exemplary embodiments and not to limit the invention.

[0046] Furthermore, in this specification, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form is intended to include the plural form.

[0047] It should also be understood that the terms "comprising" or "having" as used in this specification expressly indicate the presence of any feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof mentioned in this specification, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0048] Furthermore, in this specification, the term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple items or any one of multiple items. In this specification, "A or B" can include "A", "B", or "both A and B".

[0049] Figure 1 A battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 2 Showing Figure 1 A view of the receiving component 220 shown.

[0050] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, a battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: a battery stack 100, wherein a plurality of unit batteries 110 are arranged in a first direction X, and includes an insulating member 112 around (or surrounding) the plurality of unit batteries 110; and a module housing 200 therein providing a plurality of receiving members 220, the battery stack 100 being inserted into the plurality of receiving members 220, wherein the receiving members 220 include a retaining wall 250 around (or surrounding) the battery stack 100 and having at least a portion in contact with the battery stack 100.

[0051] The battery stack 100 includes the plurality of unit cells 110 arranged in a first direction X. Each unit cell 100 may include electrode assemblies corresponding to a secondary cell including terminal components, and includes a housing of various shapes, such as rectangular, cylindrical, etc.

[0052] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A unit battery 110 with a rectangular columnar housing is shown, but the unit battery 110 is not necessarily limited to this. For ease of explanation, a unit battery with a rectangular columnar housing will be described below. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The unit battery 110 has a rectangular casing as shown.

[0053] The plurality of unit cells 110 are arranged in the battery stack 100, and the arrangement orientation of the unit cells 110 can be varied, but the unit cells 110 can preferably be arranged in a direction in which the wide side surfaces of the side surfaces of the unit cells 110 face each other, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown. The arrangement direction of the unit cells 110 will be defined below as the first direction X. The unit cells 110 may be disposed at either end of the battery stack 100 in the first direction X, or the end supports 120 may be disposed at either end of the battery stack 100.

[0054] The number of unit cells 110 constituting the battery stack 100 can vary as needed. The unit cells 110 included in a battery stack 100 can be electrically connected to each other by using busbars or the like, which can be provided in various shapes.

[0055] Meanwhile, the battery stack 100 includes an insulating member 112 surrounding (or around) the plurality of unit batteries 110. The insulating member 112 is formed of an insulating material such as rubber and plastic and surrounds the plurality of unit batteries 110.

[0056] In one or more embodiments, the insulating member 112 may also be provided as surrounding the end support 120 disposed at both ends of the battery stack 100 in the first direction X and the plurality of unit batteries 110, or may surround only the plurality of unit batteries 110 without surrounding the end support 120, the end support 120 being separately disposed at both ends of the battery stack 100.

[0057] The insulating member 112 may be provided in the form of a film, or multiple structures formed like a rigid plate may be provided within the insulating member 112. The insulating member 112 may be provided in the form of surrounding (or around) all four side surfaces of the battery stack 100, or may be disposed on some of the four side surfaces, and may also be provided around both the upper and lower surfaces of the battery stack 100. However, the insulating member 112 disposed on the upper surface of the battery stack 100 may be provided as exposing the terminal units of each unit battery 110.

[0058] Figure 1 The illustration shows a battery stack 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, in which an insulating member 112 is prepared in the form of an insulating film to surround the side surfaces of the plurality of unit batteries 110, excluding the end support 120.

[0059] In the module housing 200, a plurality of receiving components 220 are provided, and a battery stack 100 is inserted into and / or onto the plurality of receiving components 220. Figure 1 This shows the state in which four receiving components 220 are formed in the module housing 200. Figure 2 In this module housing 200, the two receiving components 220 are separate, meaning the receiving spaces formed by the two receiving components 220 are separate. The number of receiving components 220 provided in the module housing 200 can be changed as needed.

[0060] Within the module housing 200, there is an outer wall 210 that protrudes upward from and surrounds the base plate surface 260, and an internal space is formed inside the outer wall 210. The plurality of receiving components 220 may be provided within this internal space.

[0061] The shape of the module housing 200 can be varied, and according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the module housing 200 can be provided such that the base plate surface 260 has, for example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The shape shown is roughly quadrilateral.

[0062] The module housing 200 can be provided in a form where the upper part of the module housing 200 is open; therefore, the receiving component 220 provided in the module housing 200 can also be provided in a form where the upper part of the receiving component 220 is open. A module cover can be coupled to the open upper surface of the module housing 200 such that the module housing 200 can be sealed, and when the module cover is coupled to the module housing 200, the module cover corresponds to the upper surface of the receiving component 220. The module cover may include a busbar for covering the battery stack 100, the busbar being arranged in a busbar support to electrically connect the cell batteries 110 constituting the battery stack 100.

[0063] in addition, Figure 1 and Figure 2 A receiving component 220 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The receiving component 220 includes a retaining wall 250 surrounding the battery stack 100 and at least a portion thereof contacting the battery stack 100.

[0064] Figure 1 The diagram shows the portion of the receiving component 220 in which the battery stack 100 is inserted and the portion of the receiving component 220 in which the battery stack 100 is not inserted, arranged in parallel. The fixing wall 250 corresponds to the boundary wall around (or surrounding) the receiving space formed by the receiving component 220, and the battery stack 100 inserted into the receiving component 220 is stably held in a fixed state surrounded by the fixing wall 250 in four directions.

[0065] The fixed wall 250 can be configured in various ways according to the battery stack 100, but as... Figure 1 As shown, the fixed wall 250 may have four surfaces that support the four side surfaces of the battery stack 100 in the four directions and face the four side surfaces in the four directions respectively, and is configured to surround the battery stack 100.

[0066] At least a portion of the retaining wall 250 of the receiving component 220 is in direct contact with the battery stack 100. For example, any surface of the retaining wall 250 located in the first direction X may be in direct contact with the battery stack 100, and any surface of the retaining wall 250 located in the second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction X may be in direct contact with the side surfaces (e.g., insulating members 112) of the plurality of unit batteries 110.

[0067] The second direction Y can be defined as a direction perpendicular to the first direction X in the same plane as the plane of the first direction X, and can be defined as follows: Figure 1 The width direction of the unit battery 110 shown.

[0068] As described above, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the battery stack 100 can maintain its shape by the fixing wall 250 and can remain in a compressed state in the first direction X, even without individual components.

[0069] In the case of a general battery module in the prior art, rather than the battery module 1000 of this disclosure, a module frame is connected to a battery stack, and a battery stack connected to the module frame and processed as a unit configuration forms a module.

[0070] For performance purposes, such as energy density and ease of handling, the battery stacks that are typically processed can be connected to a module frame, and the module frame can be formed by end stops at both ends of the compressed battery stack, side plates extending along the side surfaces of the battery stack, etc. The end stops and side plates can be connected to each other while the battery stack is compressed to maintain the structure of the battery stack.

[0071] In conventional battery modules, a battery stack connected to a module frame is inserted into a module housing, and the module housing is fastened to the module frame, thus transforming a conventional battery module into a battery module with power supplied by a single battery stack.

[0072] In the case of conventional battery modules, multiple battery modules are required to meet the higher power requirements than a single battery stack. Therefore, it is also necessary to fasten multiple battery cells into a module frame that forms the main body of the unit, as well as multiple components that constitute the module itself.

[0073] Therefore, in the existing technology, the processes used to manufacture battery modules will increase, the consumption of components will increase, the weight of the battery modules will increase, and the time and cost required to manufacture the battery modules will increase.

[0074] However, in a battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, unlike general battery modules of the prior art, the plurality of battery stacks 100 are mounted in one module, which is advantageous for meeting the required high power, and the battery stacks 100 are secured by a retaining wall 250 of a receiving member 220, at least a portion of which is separated from the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200, so that no separate component, such as a module frame, is needed to secure the battery stacks 100.

[0075] That is, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a plurality of receiving components 220 are present in a module housing 200, and unlike the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200, a fixing wall 250 is provided around the receiving components 220 to fix each battery stack 100 while surrounding each battery stack 100.

[0076] In addition, such as Figures 1 to 2 As shown, the receiving component 220 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an end wall 240 that extends in a second direction Y and may be disposed at both ends of each of the plurality of receiving components 220 in a first direction X to engage (e.g., squeeze or press) the end surfaces of both sides of the battery stack 100, and the end wall 240 may correspond to a portion of the fixing wall 250.

[0077] In one exemplary embodiment, the side surfaces at both ends of the battery stack 100 in the first direction X are defined as end surfaces. According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the end surfaces may correspond to a surface of the insulating member 112 or the end support 120.

[0078] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram shows end walls 240 disposed on both sides of the battery stack 100 in the first direction X. Multiple end walls 240 may exist in the module housing 200 and may correspond to the two sides of the fixing wall 250 of the receiving component 220 in the first direction X.

[0079] End walls 240 can be distinguished from outer walls 210 of module housing 200. For example, end walls 240 have a shape that protrudes from the bottom plate surface 260 in the interior space of module housing 200 and extends in the second direction Y, and multiple end walls 240 can be configured to be spaced apart from facing outer walls 210 or from another end wall 240 facing each other.

[0080] Figure 1 A figure is shown in which multiple receiving components 220 are provided (e.g., a total of four receiving components 220 are provided, two receiving components 220 in the first direction X and two receiving components 220 in the second direction Y) as well as a partition wall 230 that passes through a portion of the internal space of the module housing 200 in the first direction X and four end walls 240 that extend in the second direction Y.

[0081] The partition wall 230 is shared by the receiving components 220 on both sides in the second direction Y, and the end wall 240 is not shared by the receiving components 220 on both sides in the first direction X, and each end wall 240 is configured to be spaced apart from each other (e.g., by a gap), wherein the surfaces of the two receiving components 220 face each other in the first direction X.

[0082] That is, the end wall 240 can be configured such that one side of the end wall 240 contacts the end surface of the battery stack 100 inserted into the corresponding receiving component 220, and the other side is configured to be spaced apart from the outer wall 210 facing it or from the end wall 240 of another receiving component 220 disposed adjacent to it in the first direction X.

[0083] At least a portion of each of a pair of end walls 240 disposed on both sides of the receiving member 220 in the first direction X is in direct contact with the facing end surface of the battery stack 100 (e.g., a surface of the end support 120). Furthermore, the end walls 240 may be configured to compress the battery stack 100 in the first direction X.

[0084] As described above, in one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the battery stack 100 inserted into the receiving component 220 is not secured with a module frame such as end blocks or side plates, but is provided in a form in which its side surfaces can be surrounded by insulating members 112 when the plurality of unit batteries 110 are simply arranged, and in the battery module 1000, the end wall 240 can be used to press and secure the battery stack 100 in the first direction X.

[0085] The battery stack 100 is compressed in the first direction X to provide higher power in the same volume and can remain in a structurally stable state.

[0086] The battery stack 100 can be inserted between the fixed walls 250 of the receiving member 220, such as between a pair of end walls 240 provided on both sides in the first direction X, in a state of being squeezed by clamps inserted into the receiving member 220 on the extruded end surface, and can be kept in a squeezed state by the pair of end walls 240.

[0087] Figure 3 A cross-section of a module housing 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, and a view is shown in which a cooling channel 300 is formed below the base plate surface 260, wherein the cooling channel 300 has a flow space 310 in which coolant flows. Figure 4 A bottom view of the cooling channel 300 is shown.

[0088] like Figure 3 As shown, in a battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a cooling channel 300 through which coolant (e.g., cooling water) flows can be formed below the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200. The cooling channel 300 can be defined in a cooling plate connected to the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 As shown, a plurality of guide protrusions 350 extending in the flow direction of the coolant and guiding the flow of the coolant can be provided on the lower surface of the base plate surface 260.

[0089] The flow space 310 of the cooling channel 300 may be formed across the entire base plate surface 260, or it may be formed as a local area corresponding to the internal space of the module housing 200 in which the receiving member 220 is formed. For example, in one or more embodiments, the flow space 310 of the cooling channel 300 may not exist below the first impact absorption space 215. Coolant flows through the cooling channel 300, and various refrigerants such as air may also be used instead of coolant.

[0090] The unit cell 110 constituting the battery stack 100 corresponds to a heat-generating element that dissipates heat during discharge, and if the temperature of the unit cell rises excessively, it may cause swelling or thermal runaway (where heat increases rapidly due to a sudden chemical reaction and ignites, etc.).

[0091] Furthermore, when the battery stack 100, in which the plurality of unit cells 110 are arranged as in the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, is used, when thermal runaway occurs in any of the unit cells 110, thermal runaway may also spread to other surrounding unit cells 110.

[0092] As described above, when the plurality of unit batteries 110 are arranged, it is important to adequately cool the heat generated in the battery stack 100. Therefore, the battery module 1000 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure effectively cools the plurality of battery stacks 100 as a whole by forming a cooling channel 300 below the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200.

[0093] Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, by forming the cooling channel 300 below the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200 rather than inside the module housing 200 (i.e., the internal space and partition space of the module housing 200), the maintenance and management of the cooling channel 300 can be made easier. For example, in the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, even when the module cover of the module housing 200 is assembled, the cooling channel 300 can be maintained and managed from the lower part of the module housing 200.

[0094] Additionally, in the battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the sidewall 320 of the cooling channel 300 protrudes from the bottom plate surface 260 in a downward direction, extends along the edge of the bottom plate surface 260 and is formed to surround the bottom plate surface 260, and the channel cover 330 is attached to the lower end of the sidewall 320 to seal the cooling channel 300.

[0095] Furthermore, the sidewall 320 of the cooling channel 300 can be integrally formed with the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200 by a casting process, and the channel cover 330 can be welded and connected to the sidewall 320 of the cooling channel 300.

[0096] Figure 3 The illustration shows the sidewall 320 of the cooling channel 300 extending along the edge of the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200 to surround the bottom plate surface 260 and protrude from the bottom plate surface 260 in a downward direction.

[0097] In an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the sidewall 320 of the cooling channel 300 is integrally formed with the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200 by a casting process, so that there is no connection area between the sidewall 320 and the bottom plate surface 260, thus preventing the coolant from accidentally leaking into the module housing 200.

[0098] The channel cover 330 of the sealed cooling channel 300 can be attached to the side wall 320 of the cooling channel 300 by means such as welding, and the edge of the channel cover 330 can be attached to the lower end of the side wall 320.

[0099] Connection methods can vary, but gaskets can be provided or welded to prevent coolant leakage. Figure 4 The cooling channel 300 is shown as viewed from the bottom with the channel cover 330 removed.

[0100] In the exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, since the sidewall 320 of the cooling channel 300 protrudes downward from the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 320 and the open lower part of the cooling channel 300 is connected to the channel cover 330 to close and seal the cooling channel 300, the cooling channel 300 is formed outside the module housing 200. Therefore, the risk of operation of the battery stack 100 due to coolant leakage in the cooling channel 300 can be effectively reduced.

[0101] Furthermore, the outer wall 210 and bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200, as well as the side wall 320 of the cooling channel 300, are all integrally formed by a casting process, thus eliminating any potential leakage areas. In addition, the cooling channel 300 is provided below the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200, that is, outside the internal space of the module housing 200, so that even if the coolant leaks unintentionally from the cooling channel 300, it can prevent the coolant from flowing into the internal space of the module housing 200 where the battery stack 100 is located.

[0102] As a result, in the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the plurality of battery stacks 100 are inserted to simplify the assembly process and components and effectively meet the required high power, the plurality of battery stacks 100 can be effectively cooled by the cooling channels 300, and the plurality of battery stacks 100 can be effectively protected from coolant leakage in the cooling channels 300.

[0103] at the same time, Figure 5 The diagram shows a plurality of battery modules provided and interconnected according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. That is, Figure 5 The diagram shows the battery modules connected to each other to form a large pack.

[0104] like Figure 5 As shown, the battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a coupling member 400, which is provided in the module housing 200 and coupled to an adjacent module housing.

[0105] In the module housing 200 of the present invention, the plurality of receiving components 220 are provided to receive the plurality of battery stacks 100, thereby effectively achieving high output. In some cases, the power required by the power-consuming device may exceed the output that can be provided by the battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] The battery modules 1000 can be interconnected to meet the required power, thus enabling a bulk pack structure. Figure 5 The diagram shows the connection of the connecting component 400 between the corresponding module housing 200 and the adjacent module housing.

[0107] The connecting component 400 can be supplied in various types and shapes. Figure 5 The illustration shows fastening members 410 fastened to each other by fastening members according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, guide members 420 aligning the positions of the fastening members 410 of the respective battery modules and adjacent battery modules, and connection members 430 serving as connection channels for busbars 436 for electrical connection with the adjacent module housing.

[0108] In addition, Figure 6 The image shows coolant lines 360 connected to the plurality of module housings 200. (See image for reference.) Figure 6 As shown, the battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may further include a coolant line connected to each cooling channel of an adjacent module housing 200.

[0109] The coolant line 360 ​​is provided in the form of a conduit or pipe through which coolant flows and can supply coolant to or receive coolant discharged from the cooling channel 300 provided below the module housing 200. As coolant flows through the cooling channel 300 connected to the coolant line 360, the cooling channel 300 can cool the plurality of receiving components 220 and the battery stack disposed above.

[0110] The coolant line 360 ​​can be connected to the cooling channel of the corresponding module housing 200 and the cooling channel 300 of the adjacent module housing 200. Therefore, even when the battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided as a large package in which multiple battery modules 1000 are connected to each other, the multiple battery stacks 100 of the multiple battery modules 1000 can be cooled by the respective cooling channels 300 of the multiple module housings 200 connected via a coolant line 360.

[0111] Coolant lines 360 can be connected to corresponding cooling channels 300 of the plurality of module housings 200 by various methods. Coolant lines 360 can be in series, where coolant is supplied to one cooling channel 300 and coolant discharged from that cooling channel 300 is supplied to an adjacent cooling channel 300. In one or more embodiments, coolant lines 360 can be in parallel, where any one of the coolant lines 360 supplies coolant to the plurality of cooling channels 300 and coolant discharged from the plurality of cooling channels 300 flows in another coolant line 360.

[0112] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the module housing 200 is connected to an adjacent module housing in a second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction X, and the coolant line 360 ​​extends in the second direction Y and may include a plurality of port connection holes 370 that are spaced apart from each other along the length direction and connected to the cooling channel 300.

[0113] Since the module housing 200 provides a plurality of battery stacks 100, in which a plurality of unit batteries 110 are arranged, the module housing 200 may have a rectangular shape extending in a first direction X of the arrangement of the unit batteries 110, and the module housing 200 may include a connecting member 400 for connecting with a module housing adjacent in a second direction Y.

[0114] Additionally, the coolant line 360 ​​may have the plurality of port connection holes 370, which extend in the second direction Y and are spaced apart from each other to connect to the corresponding cooling channels 300 of the plurality of module housings arranged in the second direction Y as described above. In the bulk package, the corresponding port connection holes 370 can connect to the cooling channels 300 of different module housings.

[0115] exist Figure 6 The image shows a coolant line 360 ​​provided with the plurality of port connection holes 370. Figure 7 Different port connection holes 370 are shown connecting to connection ports 325 respectively provided in the cooling channel 300.

[0116] A coolant line 360 ​​extends in a second direction Y and connects to a plurality of cooling channels 300 arranged in the second direction Y. That is, the coolant line 360 ​​according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention has a parallel configuration in which coolant is supplied to the plurality of cooling channels 300 or coolant discharged from the plurality of cooling channels 300 is recovered.

[0117] That is, in an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the coolant line 360 ​​extends in the second direction Y and is thus simultaneously connected to the corresponding cooling channels 300 of the plurality of module housings 200, so that coolant can be supplied to or recovered from the plurality of cooling channels 300, thereby improving structural safety and simultaneously improving cooling efficiency.

[0118] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, in the battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a connecting member 400 may be provided on a first wall 211 and a second wall 212 located in the second direction Y in the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200, and the connecting member 400 provided on the second wall 212 of the module housing 200 may be connected to a connecting member 400 provided on the first wall 211 of the adjacent module housing.

[0119] The connecting component 400 can be disposed in the module housing 200, and as follows: Figure 5 As shown, it can be disposed on the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200. The connecting parts 400 can be provided on each of the four sides of the outer wall 210 facing each other, so that the plurality of battery modules can be connected to each other.

[0120] In one or more embodiments, in the battery module 1000 of an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, since the plurality of battery stacks 100 are inserted therein and the battery stacks 100 include the plurality of unit batteries 110 arranged in the first direction X, the module housing 200 may have a rectangular cross-section having a longer length in the first direction X.

[0121] Therefore, even when the plurality of module housings 200 are arranged in a row or connected to each other by the connecting member 400, the connecting member 400 can be disposed on the first wall 211 and the second wall 212 located in the second direction Y within the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200, thereby reducing the overall length of the plurality of module housings 200. However, the cross-sectional shape of the module housing 200 or the position of the connecting member 400 on the outer wall 210 is not limited to the description above.

[0122] Therefore, the connecting member 400 disposed on the first wall 211 of any module housing 200 can be connected to the connecting member 400 disposed on the second wall 212 of another module housing, wherein the second wall 212 of the other module housing faces the first wall 211 of any module housing 200, and the connecting member 400 disposed on the second wall 212 of any module housing 200 can be connected to the connecting member 400 disposed on the first wall 211 of another module housing, wherein the first wall 211 of the other module housing faces the second wall 212 of any module housing 200.

[0123] Furthermore, the connecting member 400 provided in the first wall 211 of the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200 is inserted into the connecting member 400 of the adjacent module housing, so that the corresponding module housing 200 and the adjacent module housing can be connected to each other. For example, although not in Figure 5 As shown, however, the fastening member 410, the guide pin of the guide member 420, and the pipe insertion portion of the connecting member 430 may be provided in the first wall 211.

[0124] Furthermore, the connecting member 400 provided in the second wall 212 can be inserted into the connecting member 400 of an adjacent module housing, so that the corresponding module housing 200 and the adjacent module housing can be connected to each other. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, the fastening member 410, the guide pin of the guiding member 420, and the connecting pipe of the connecting member 430 can be provided in the second wall 212. However, the insertion relationship of the connecting members 400 respectively provided in the first wall 211 and the second wall 212 and each component are not limited thereto.

[0125] Figure 12A diagram illustrates multiple battery modules provided therein and interconnected according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. That is, Figure 12 A diagram is shown in which battery modules are connected to each other to form a large package (e.g., a battery pack).

[0126] like Figure 2 As shown, refer to Figure 12 The connecting parts 400 are formed on the upper surface (or module cover) and the bottom surface of the battery module, and the connecting parts 400 between adjacent battery modules are connected to each other. Therefore, the plurality of battery modules can be stacked in the vertical direction (perpendicular to the first direction X and the second direction Y) by means of the connecting parts 400.

[0127] For example, a connecting member 430 disposed on the upper surface of the battery module 1000 can be inserted into a connecting member 430 disposed on the bottom surface of an adjacent battery module. Alternatively, the connecting member 430 can be a connecting channel for a busbar used for electrical connection with an adjacent battery module.

[0128] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, in the battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the coolant line 360 ​​includes an inflow line 362 through which coolant is supplied to a cooling channel 300 and an outflow line 364 through which coolant is supplied from the cooling channel 300. The inflow line 362 is connected to one side of the cooling channel 300 in a first direction X, and the outflow line 364 is connected to the other side of the cooling channel 300 in the first direction X.

[0129] The coolant line 360 ​​can be formed by an inlet line 362 and an outlet line 362. The inlet line 362 delivers the coolant supplied to the water source to the cooling channel 300, and the outlet line 362 delivers the coolant discharged from the cooling channel 300 back to the water source.

[0130] A water source can be used to store or supply coolant, and this supply can be provided in various types and methods. A cooling system can also be provided to re-cool the coolant recovered from cooling channel 300. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the inflow line 362 and the outflow line 364 can extend in the second direction Y, and each can be connected to the entire cooling channel 300.

[0131] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the plurality of module housings 200 may be arranged along the second direction Y, and the connecting member 400 may be disposed in the first wall 211 and the second wall 212 of the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200 in the second direction Y.

[0132] That is, when the plurality of module housings 200 are connected to each other, each module housing 200 can be connected to an adjacent module housing, wherein the first wall 211 and the second wall 212 of the corresponding module housing are adjacent to each other, so the coolant line 360 ​​can be connected to the side wall 320 provided in the first direction X of the cooling channel 300.

[0133] In one embodiment, the inflow line 362 may be connected to one side wall of the side wall 320 of the cooling channel 300 in the first direction X, and the outflow line 364 may be connected to another side wall of the side wall of the cooling channel 300 (that is, the side wall opposite to the one side wall in the first direction X).

[0134] In the cooling channel 300, the inflow line 362 and the outflow line 362 are arranged opposite to each other, so that in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the coolant can flow in the cooling channel 300 along the first direction X without consuming additional power.

[0135] In addition, since the plurality of cooling channels 300 receive coolant in parallel, the plurality of cooling channels 300 receive cooling water with essentially the same water temperature, thereby improving cooling performance.

[0136] in addition, Figure 8 The connection portion 325 of the contact port connection hole 370 is shown. In this figure, [the details are omitted]. Figure 7 The port connection hole 370 is shown. In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, at least one of the plurality of port connection holes 370 may have a different diameter than the other port connection holes.

[0137] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a coolant line 360 ​​extends in a second direction Y and is capable of supplying coolant to the plurality of cooling channels 300 arranged in the second direction Y.

[0138] However, the number of receiving components 220 formed in the module housing 200 can vary as required, as described above, and the amount of coolant required for each module housing 200 can vary from one another when each of the plurality of module housings 200 connected to each other has a different number of receiving components 220.

[0139] In one or more embodiments, the amount of coolant supplied to the plurality of cooling channels 300 connected to a coolant line 360 ​​may vary from one another depending on the distance from the water source.

[0140] Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment of the invention, at least one of the plurality of port connection holes 370 in the coolant line 360 ​​is provided to be different in diameter from the other port connection holes, thereby setting the coolant flow rate differently for each cooling channel 300.

[0141] The port connection hole 370 can be provided in a form that can be connected to or disconnected from the coolant line 360. Therefore, when the diameter of a port connection hole 370 changes, the corresponding port connection hole 370 can be removed and port connection holes 370 with different diameters can be connected to the corresponding positions to adjust the diameter.

[0142] Figure 8 The connection port 325 shown can be integrally formed with the cooling channel 300, or it can be manufactured as a separate injection product and coupled to the opening of the cooling channel 300. The connection port 325 can be provided with a predetermined diameter range such that a plurality of port connection holes 370 whose diameter is included within the range can be coupled to the connection port 325, or it can be interchangeable with another connection port 325 having a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the corresponding port connection hole 370.

[0143] Additionally, return to reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 In a battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the module housing 200 may further include a partition wall 230 extending in a first direction X and separating an internal space surrounded by an outer wall 210 to facilitate the formation of the plurality of receiving components 220. The partition wall 230 may form part of a retaining wall 250 of two receiving components 220 disposed on both sides along a second direction Y and may contact the side surface of a battery stack 100 inserted into each of the two receiving components 220.

[0144] The side surface refers to the two side surfaces that extend in the first direction X among the side surfaces of the battery stack, and as described above, since the battery stack 100 according to the invention does not include a separate module frame, the side surface may correspond to the insulating member 112 around (or around the side surfaces of the plurality of unit batteries 110).

[0145] The partition wall 230 may be provided to project upward from the bottom surface 260 of the module housing 200 and may be provided to divide the internal space of the module housing 200 while extending along the first direction X. That is, the partition wall 230 may correspond to the portion of the fixed wall 250 around (or surrounding) the receiving member 220, i.e., one of its surfaces.

[0146] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The receiving components 220 are formed on both sides of the partition wall 230, and the partition wall 230 serves as a fixing wall 250 for the two receiving components 220 formed on its sides.

[0147] Reference Figure 2 The partition wall 230 faces the side surface of the battery stack 100 inserted into the receiving member 220. Therefore, the partition wall 230 corresponding to a portion of the fixing wall 250 is in direct contact with at least a portion of the side surface of the battery stack 100 inserted into the receiving member 220, thereby supporting the battery stack 100 in the second direction Y.

[0148] In addition, Figure 2 In this configuration, a portion of the plurality of end walls 240 is provided at a distance from the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200. Figure 9 The end wall 240, separated from the outer wall 210 by a distance, is shown as viewed from the top side.

[0149] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the end wall 240 is configured such that an end wall 240 with a surface facing the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200 can be spaced apart from the outer wall 210 in a first direction X and a first impact absorption space 215 is formed between the end wall 240 and the outer wall 210.

[0150] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, it can be as follows Figure 1 and Figure 2 The plurality of end walls 240 are provided as shown, wherein the end wall 240 facing the outer wall 210 is spaced apart from the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200 in a first direction X and forms a first impact absorption space 215 between the end wall 240 and the outer wall 210, such as Figure 2 and Figure 9 As shown.

[0151] Figure 9 The end wall 240 is shown as the outer wall 210 facing the module housing 200 and constituting the fixing wall 250 of the receiving member 220, and a first impact absorption space 215 formed between the end wall 240 and the outer wall 210 is shown.

[0152] The module housing 200 needs to securely protect the battery stack 100 inserted into the receiving component 220 from impacts transmitted from the outside. In an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the end wall 240, which directly contacts, supports, and compresses the end surface of the battery stack 100, is spaced apart from the outer wall 210, thereby preventing impacts transmitted to the outer wall 210 from being directly transmitted to the end wall 240.

[0153] Furthermore, since the impact transmitted from the outside of the module housing 200 is reduced and transmitted to the end wall 240 and the battery stack 100 through the first impact absorption space 215, the safety of the battery can be improved.

[0154] In addition, it is important to properly cool the unit battery 110 that generates heat during use, and the first shock absorption space 215 itself can advantageously be used as a heat dissipation space in which the heat of the battery stack 100 is dissipated.

[0155] Furthermore, in one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the plurality of receiving components 220 are disposed in the internal space of the module housing 200 in the first direction X, and in two adjacent receiving components 220 in the first direction X, the end walls 240 disposed on the facing surfaces in the first direction X are spaced apart from each other to form a second impact absorption space 216 between the end walls 240.

[0156] exist Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a module housing 200 comprising four receiving components 220 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, with every two receiving components 220 arranged along a first direction X. However, in one or more other embodiments, the number of receiving components 220 arranged along the first direction X may be different.

[0157] In each of two adjacent receiving components 220 in the first direction X, the fixed wall 250 of one receiving component 220 faces the fixed wall 250 of the other receiving component 220, and the two receiving components 220 have different end walls 240 facing each other. That is, the receiving components 220 arranged in the first direction X do not share the end wall 240.

[0158] Reference Figure 2 This illustrates a situation where two receiving components 220 arranged in the first direction X have their end walls 240 facing each other spaced apart, and a second impact absorption space 216 is formed between the end walls 240.

[0159] The second shock absorption space 216 protects the battery stack 100 inserted into the corresponding receiving component 220 from shocks transmitted from the outside of the receiving component 220, similar to the first shock absorption space 215. For example, the first shock absorption space 215 can prevent shocks transmitted from the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200 from being transmitted to the interior space of the module housing 200, and the second shock absorption space 216 can prevent shocks transmitted to any one of the receiving components 220 from being transmitted to the other adjacent receiving component 220 in the first direction X.

[0160] in addition, Figure 9 The end support 120 is shown to be disposed on the outer side of the outermost battery of the battery stack 100. Figure 11 The end surface of the end support 120 is shown.

[0161] like Figure 9 and Figure 11 As shown, in a battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery stack 100 may further include a pair of end supports 120 disposed at two ends in a first direction X and whose outer surfaces correspond to the end surfaces.

[0162] In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the plurality of unit batteries 110 are provided in such a manner that at least their side surfaces are surrounded by insulating members 112, and the end supports 120 may be configured such that the inner surface of each end support 120 contacts the surface of the insulating member 112 at both ends of the battery stack 100 in the first direction X. However, the positional relationship between the insulating member 112 and the end supports 120 is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0163] End supports 120 are disposed at both ends of the battery stack 100 in the first direction X, and the outer surface of the end supports 120 may correspond to the end surface. The end supports 120 can be used to absorb the impact between the end wall 240 and the plurality of unit cells 110, and can be used to uniformly transfer the compressive force of the end wall 240 to the outermost cell among the plurality of unit cells 110.

[0164] The outermost battery refers to the outermost unit battery 100 located in the first direction X among the plurality of unit batteries 110 constituting the battery stack 100. In an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the outermost battery is disposed at each of the two ends of the plurality of unit batteries 110 in the first direction X.

[0165] Even if the end wall 240 does not press the end support 120 with its entire surface, because the end wall 240 has a curved shape, the end support 120 can still press the insulating member 112 and the outermost surface of the battery with its entire surface.

[0166] in addition, Figure 9 The end wall 240 is shown bent so that the central portion is away from the end surface. Figure 10 The inner surface is shown at the end surface of the battery stack 100 in the curved end wall 240.

[0167] like Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, in a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the end wall 240 is bent outward such that the central portion of the end wall 240 is away from the facing end surface, thereby forming a bulge space 217 between the end wall 240 and the end surface.

[0168] The end wall 240 can be formed in a curved shape such that the central portion of the end wall 240 is away from the facing end surface in the battery stack 100 inserted into the receiving member 220. Only the central portion can be recessed based on the second direction Y and the height direction, but the end wall 240 can be provided in a curved form such that the cross-section of the end wall 240 is curved, as... Figure 9 As shown.

[0169] The end wall 240 has a curved shape, thereby forming a space at least in the central portion between the end wall 240 and the end surface of the battery stack 100, in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the corresponding space corresponds to the bulge space 217.

[0170] In the unit cells 110 of the battery stack 100, bulging can occur due to durability degradation caused by use and surrounding conditions, in which gas is generated and expands from the internal electrode assembly. It is beneficial to implement a structure in which the plurality of unit cells 110 are arranged to properly handle bulging.

[0171] For example, when bulging occurs in any of the individual cells 110, the other individual cells 110 in the battery stack 100, including the corresponding individual cell 110, may experience the bulging, and when bulging occurs in one of the individual cells 110 and thus increases in thickness, the entire length of the battery stack 110 is significantly affected. Furthermore, changes in the length of the battery stack 100 can affect the compression of the end walls 240 of the battery stack 100 in the first direction X, potentially leading to damage, etc.

[0172] When bulging occurs, due to its structural characteristics, the unit battery 110 has a large expansion of the central portion on the side surface located in the first direction X. Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a bulging space 217 is formed between the end wall 240 and the end surface to accommodate the volume expansion of the battery stack 100 caused by the bulging when bulging of the battery stack 100 occurs.

[0173] Furthermore, as described above, the battery stack 100 can be squeezed or pressurized in the first direction X in terms of efficiency such as energy density. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, even though the central portion of the end wall 240 of the squeezed end surface is bent into a concave shape, the battery stack 100 is advantageously operated because at least the two ends of the end wall 240 maintain the squeezed or pressurized state of the end surface.

[0174] In addition, such as Figure 9 and Figure 11 As shown, the end surface can be recessed so that the central portion of the end surface can be away from the facing end wall 240. That is, the end support 120 can have a shape in which the central portion of the end surface is recessed.

[0175] In the embodiment providing the end support 120, the end surface corresponding to the outer surface of the end support 120 may have a shape in which the central portion of the end surface is recessed, such that a space is formed in at least the central portion between the end surface 240 and the end wall 240, similar to the end wall 240 having a curved shape, so that the bulging space 217 may be formed in at least the central portion between the end support 120 and the end wall 240.

[0176] For example, if bulging occurs in at least one of the plurality of unit cells 110, and thus the central portion of the unit cell 110 expands, the central portion of the end support 120 is pressed towards the end wall 240 due to the expansion of the central portions of the plurality of unit cells 110. However, the central portion of the end surface of the end support 120 is recessed inward, such that even when the central portion of the end support 120 is pressed outward or deformed, deformation or damage to the end wall 240 can be suppressed or prevented by the bulging space 217 formed between the end support 120 and the end wall 240.

[0177] In addition, such as Figure 2 and Figure 9 As shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of first ribs 242 may be formed in the end wall 240. Specifically, the end wall 240 may include the plurality of first ribs 242 on the outer surface based on the first direction X.

[0178] In one or more embodiments, the end wall 240 strongly resists external impacts while compressing the end surface of the battery stack 100. Furthermore, the end wall 240 has mechanical strength even when the bulge space 217 is formed, thereby preventing the end wall 240 from being damaged.

[0179] Therefore, in one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, such as Figure 2 and Figure 9 As shown, the plurality of first ribs 242 may be provided in the outer surface of the end wall 240, that is, in a surface facing the outer wall 210 or in a surface opposite to the battery stack 100.

[0180] A first rib 242 is formed on the outer surface of the end wall 240 to protect the battery stack 100. The outer surface of the end wall 240 refers to the surface opposite to the surface of the end wall 240 facing the end support 120. The first rib 242 can be manufactured separately and can be attached to the end wall 240, or the first rib 242 can be integrally formed with the end wall 240 by a casting process.

[0181] like Figure 2 and Figure 9 As shown, the plurality of first ribs 242 may extend in the height direction of the end wall 240 and may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction Y.

[0182] The first rib 242 can be provided in the form of extending in the height direction of the end wall 240, that is, it can extend from the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200 toward the top side. Therefore, the first rib 242 can effectively improve the strength of the end wall 240 and can be integrally formed with the end wall 240 in a casting process using an upper mold and a lower mold.

[0183] Furthermore, the plurality of first ribs 242 are spaced apart from each other in the second direction Y, thereby uniformly and stably increasing the strength of the entire end wall 240. Figure 9 The cross-section of the plurality of first ribs 242 spaced apart from each other in the second direction Y is shown.

[0184] in addition, Figure 11 An end support 120 is shown, wherein a plurality of second ribs 122 are formed on the end surface. (See diagram) Figure 11 As shown, in one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the end support 120 may include the plurality of second ribs 122 projecting toward the end wall 240 in the end surface.

[0185] When bulging occurs, the bulging force transmitted from the plurality of unit cells 110 is applied to the end support 120, and the end support 120 responds to the expansion of the unit cells 110. Therefore, in one or more embodiments, the end support 120 is robust to resist deformation and damage caused by the bulging phenomenon.

[0186] Therefore, a second rib 122 is formed on the end surface of the end support 120 to increase the strength of the end support 120. That is, the inner surface of the end support 120 (that is, the surface opposite to the end surface) contacts the surface of the outermost battery or insulating member 112 of the battery stack 100 to uniformly ensure compression performance, and the second rib 122 is formed on the end surface of the end support 120.

[0187] In addition, such as Figure 11As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the second ribs 122 may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction Y and in the height direction of the end support 120 to form a lattice shape.

[0188] Reference Figure 11 In one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the second rib 122 may be formed to extend substantially across the entire end surface, and some of the plurality of second ribs 122 extend in the second direction Y and the remaining second ribs 122 extend in the height direction of the end support 120, such that the plurality of second ribs 122 may be configured to form a lattice.

[0189] That is, the plurality of second ribs 122 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the second direction Y and in the height direction of the end support 120 to form a grid shape, thereby effectively improving the robustness of the end support 120.

[0190] That is, in the end support 120, the quadrilateral recess can be generally set in a grid shape on the end surface, and the second rib 122 can be manufactured separately and attached to the end surface of the end support 120 or integrally formed with the end support 120 when the end support 120 is manufactured.

[0191] In addition, in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the fixing wall 250 of any receiving component 220 may be defined as a portion including a partition wall 230, a pair of end walls 240 and an outer wall 210, wherein the partition wall 230 and the end walls 240 may be integrally formed by a casting process or the like.

[0192] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, one of the four surfaces of the fixed wall 250 corresponds to the partition wall 230, the two other surfaces correspond to the end walls respectively, and the remaining surface may be formed by the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200.

[0193] In the battery module 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the end wall 240, the partition wall 230 and the outer wall 210 can be integrally formed with the bottom plate surface 260 of the module housing 200 by a casting process.

[0194] That is, in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the end wall 240 and the partition wall 230 can be integrally formed with the module housing 200, and when the mold is manufactured for use in a casting process, the intaglio (i.e., engraving) of the end wall 240 and the partition wall 230 can be integrally formed in the mold.

[0195] Furthermore, in one exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, the end wall 240 and the partition wall 230 may also be integrally formed with the outer wall 210 of the module housing 200. In this case, the outer wall 210, the partition wall 230, the end wall 240, and the bottom plate surface 260 in the module housing 200 may all be integrally formed.

[0196] As described above, in the module housing 200 integrally formed by the end wall 240 and the partition wall 230, additional manufacturing processes for the components including the end wall 240 and the partition wall 230 can be omitted, and as previously stated, even when the module frame is omitted by the end wall 240 and the partition wall 230, the battery stack 100 can be stably fixed, while the plurality of unit batteries 110 are received in the receiving member 220 in a compressed state.

[0197] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with exemplary embodiments that are now considered feasible, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.

[0198] Symbol Explanation

[0199] 100: Battery stack; 110: Single cell

[0200] 120: End support member; 122: Second rib

[0201] 200: Module housing; 210: Outer wall of the module housing

[0202] 211: First Wall 212: Second Wall

[0203] 215: First Impact Absorption Space

[0204] 216: Second Shock Absorption Space

[0205] 220: Receiving component; 230: Separator wall

[0206] 240: End wall; 242: First rib

[0207] 250: Fixed wall; 260: Surface of the bottom plate of the module housing.

[0208] 300: Cooling channel; 310: Flow space

[0209] 320: Side wall of cooling channel; 325: Connection port

[0210] 330: Channel cover; 350: Guide protrusion

[0211] 360: Coolant line; 362: Inlet line

[0212] 364: Outflow line; 370: Port connection hole

[0213] 400: Connecting component; 410: Fastening component

[0214] 420: Guiding component; 430: Connecting component

[0215] 1000: Battery Module

Claims

1. A battery module, comprising: First module; The second module is adjacent to and connected to the first module in the first direction; Each of the first module and the second module includes: Multiple batteries stacked, Module housing, and The module housing contains a plurality of receiving components configured to accommodate the plurality of battery stacks. A connecting component connects the module housing of the first module to the module housing of the second module; Each of the plurality of receiving components includes a fixed wall, the fixed wall comprising a pair of end walls at opposite ends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction in each receiving component. The module housing of the first module is connected to the module housing of the second module in the first direction. The cooling channels for coolant flow to cool the plurality of receiving components and the plurality of battery stacks are located below the bottom plate surface of the module housing. The battery module further includes a cooling plate coupled to the surface of the base plate of the module housing, wherein the cooling channels are defined within the cooling plate. The battery module further includes coolant lines connected to the cooling channels of the module housing of each of the first and second modules. The coolant pipeline extends in the first direction and includes a plurality of port connection holes, the plurality of port connection holes being spaced apart from each other along the length of the coolant pipeline and connecting to the cooling channel of each of the first module and the second module. The pair of end walls have a shape that protrudes from the bottom plate surface in the interior space of the module housing and engages the end surfaces on both sides of the battery stack, and at least one of the pair of end walls is spaced apart from the outer wall of the module housing.

2. The battery module of claim 1, wherein the cooling channel includes at least one sidewall projecting downward and surrounding the surface of the base plate, the at least one sidewall defining the cooling channel, and Each of the first module and the second module further includes a channel cover, which is attached to the lower end of the at least one sidewall to close and seal the cooling channel.

3. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein at least one sidewall of the cooling channel is integral with the surface of the base plate.

4. The battery module of claim 1, wherein the connecting component includes a first connecting component in a first wall of the module housing of the first module and a second connecting component in a second wall of the module housing of the second module, wherein the first wall is spaced apart from the second wall in the first direction.

5. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein the coolant pipeline comprises: An inflow line is configured to supply coolant to the cooling channel; as well as The coolant is discharged from the cooling channel through the outlet pipe. The inflow pipeline is connected to one side of the cooling channel of each of the first module and the second module. The outflow line is connected to the other side of the cooling channel of each of the first and second modules, and The cooling channel is located on opposite sides along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

6. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of port connection holes has a different diameter than at least one of the other port connection holes.

7. The battery module of claim 1, wherein the module housing further comprises a partition wall extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and dividing an internal space surrounded by the outer wall of the module housing to form the plurality of receiving components, and The partition wall defines a portion of the fixed wall of each of the plurality of receiving components at a side portion along the first direction, the partition wall contacting the side surface of a pair of battery stacks in the respective receiving components of the plurality of receiving components.

8. The battery module of claim 7, wherein the end wall of the pair of end walls facing the outer wall of the module housing is spaced apart from the outer wall along the second direction and defines a first impact absorption space between the end wall and the outer wall.

9. The battery module of claim 8, wherein the plurality of receiving components includes two receiving components adjacent to each other along the second direction, and The end walls of the two receiving components facing each other in the second direction are spaced apart to define a second impact absorption space between the end walls.

10. The battery module of claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of battery stacks includes a pair of end supports at opposite ends in the second direction, the pair of end supports having an outer surface corresponding to a corresponding end surface of the corresponding battery stack housed in each of the receiving components.

11. The battery module of claim 10, wherein the end wall is bent outward such that a central portion of the end wall is spaced apart from the end surface, and The end surface is recessed inward such that the central portion of the end surface is spaced apart from the end wall.

12. The battery module of claim 11, wherein at least one of the end walls includes a plurality of first ribs projecting from an outer surface in the second direction, the plurality of first ribs being spaced apart from each other in the first direction and extending upward in a third direction perpendicular to each of the first and second directions.

13. The battery module of claim 12, wherein at least one of the pair of end supports includes a plurality of second ribs that project from the end surface toward the at least one end wall and are spaced apart from each other in the first direction and the third direction.

14. The battery module of claim 13, wherein the plurality of second ribs have a mesh structure.

Images