Battery module and battery pack including the same

Abstract

A battery module according to an embodiment of the present application includes: a battery cell stack including a plurality of battery cells stacked together and each including an electrode lead; first and second sensing blocks covering front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack from which the electrode leads protrude, respectively; and an elastic member covering the first and second sensing blocks and both side surfaces of the battery cell stack. Each of the first and second sensing blocks includes an outer protrusion protruding in a direction opposite to a position where the battery cell stack is located.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This disclosure claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0003189, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on January 11, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This disclosure relates to a battery module and a battery pack including the battery module, and more specifically, to a battery module with improved cooling performance and a battery pack including the battery module. Background Technology

[0004] In modern society, the widespread use of portable devices such as mobile phones, laptops, camcorders, and digital cameras has spurred technological development in related fields. Furthermore, rechargeable / dischargeable secondary batteries are used as power sources for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs), attempting to address air pollution and other problems caused by existing fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Therefore, the demand for secondary batteries is growing rapidly.

[0005] Currently, commercially available rechargeable battery packs include nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, nickel-zinc (NiZn) batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. Among them, lithium-ion batteries have attracted much attention because they have advantages over nickel-based batteries, such as almost no memory effect, allowing for free charging / discharging, extremely low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0006] This type of lithium secondary battery mainly uses lithium-based oxide and carbonaceous materials as positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. The lithium secondary battery includes: an electrode assembly, wherein positive and negative electrode plates coated with positive and negative electrode active materials are arranged, and a separator is inserted between the positive and negative electrode plates; and a battery casing that seals and houses the electrode assembly with the electrolyte.

[0007] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be classified based on the shape of their external materials: can-type secondary batteries with electrode components built into a metal can and bag-type secondary batteries with electrode components built into a bag of aluminum laminates.

[0008] In small devices using rechargeable batteries, two to three battery cells are arranged. However, in medium to large devices such as automobiles, battery modules with multiple battery cells electrically connected are used. In these modules, a large number of battery cells are connected in series or parallel to form cell assemblies, thereby increasing capacity and output. One or more battery modules can be integrated with various control and protection systems such as battery disconnect units (BDUs), battery management systems (BMSs), and cooling systems to form battery packs.

[0009] The battery pack must meet various functional requirements. First, it must possess structural durability to withstand various environments, vibrations, and shocks. Second, it needs HV (high voltage) and LV (low voltage) electrical connections for sensors used to diagnose the internal state of the battery modules. Finally, the battery cells within the pack generate electrical energy and dissipate heat, necessitating a cooling system for their operation.

[0010] Regarding cooling systems, when the temperature of a secondary battery rises above a suitable level, its performance may degrade, and in the worst-case scenario, there is a risk of explosion or fire. Specifically, a large number of secondary batteries (i.e., battery modules or packs containing battery cells) can accumulate the heat generated by the cells within a confined space, causing the temperature to rise more quickly and excessively. In other words, while battery modules and packs equipped with such modules can achieve high output, the heat generated by the cells during charging and discharging is difficult to dissipate. Inadequate heat dissipation of the battery cells accelerates cell degradation, shortens their lifespan, and increases the likelihood of explosion or fire. Furthermore, medium / large battery modules in vehicle battery packs are often exposed to direct sunlight and may be placed in high-temperature conditions such as summer or desert regions. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Technical issues

[0012] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a battery module with a novel structure and a battery pack including the battery module, wherein the battery module has improved cooling and heat transfer performance and is configured with a sensing block capable of guiding HV (high voltage) and LV (low voltage) connections.

[0013] However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the problems described above, and various extensions can be made within the scope of the technical concepts included in this disclosure.

[0014] Technical solution

[0015] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a battery module is provided, the battery module comprising: a battery cell stack having a plurality of battery cells including electrode leads stacked thereon; a first sensing block and a second sensing block covering a front surface and a rear surface of the battery cell stack, the electrode leads protruding from the front surface and the rear surface of the battery cell stack; and an elastic member covering the first sensing block, the second sensing block and two side surfaces of the battery cell stack, wherein each of the first sensing block and the second sensing block includes an external protrusion protruding in a direction opposite to the direction in which the battery cell stack is located.

[0016] The elastic member may surround the outer protrusion of the first sensing block and the outer protrusion of the second sensing block.

[0017] The first sensing block may include a first external protrusion protruding from both ends of the first sensing block in a direction opposite to the direction of the battery cell stack, and the second sensing block includes a second external protrusion protruding from both ends of the second sensing block in a direction opposite to the direction of the battery cell stack.

[0018] The elastic member can extend around both the first and second external protrusions.

[0019] The elastic member can be continuously connected along the two side surfaces of the first sensing block, the second sensing block, and the battery cell stack.

[0020] The upper and lower surfaces of the battery cell stack can be exposed.

[0021] The electrode leads may include a first electrode lead and a second electrode lead that protrude from the battery cell in opposite directions.

[0022] On the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack, at least two electrode leads can be connected to each other to form an electrode lead junction.

[0023] A low voltage (LV) sensing component may be located in at least one of the first sensing block and the second sensing block, and the LV sensing component may be connected to the electrode lead junction.

[0024] A slit can be formed in the first sensing block and the second sensing block, and the electrode lead passes through the slit and can be bent to form the electrode lead junction.

[0025] Due to the external protrusion, the elastic member can be spaced apart from the electrode lead connector.

[0026] The battery module may further include a cooling plate located between the battery cells. At least one of the first sensing block and the second sensing block may include an inner protrusion that protrudes in the direction of the battery cell stack. The cooling plate may contact the inner protrusion.

[0027] The sum of the protrusion length of the inner protrusion and the length of the cooling plate that contacts the inner protrusion can be equal to or greater than the length of the battery cell body.

[0028] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a battery module; a battery pack frame housing the battery module; and a thermally conductive resin layer located between the battery module and the bottom of the battery pack frame. The elastic member has an opening at its lower portion, thereby exposing the lower surface of the battery cell stack.

[0029] The lower surface of the battery cell stack can be in contact with the thermally conductive resin layer.

[0030] Beneficial effects

[0031] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the heat transfer path can be simplified by exposing the lower surface of the battery cell stack, thereby improving cooling performance.

[0032] Furthermore, by forming a structure in which elastic members continue to extend around the battery cell stack, the expansion of the battery cells can be suppressed, and the deformation of the battery module in the battery cell stacking direction can be prevented.

[0033] In addition, a sensing block that can guide high voltage (HV) and low voltage (LV) connections and protect the battery cell can be fixed by elastic components.

[0034] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the description of the appended claims other effects not mentioned above. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded 3D view of the battery module.

[0037] Figure 3 It is shown that it includes Figure 2 A 3D view of the battery cells in the battery module.

[0038] Figure 4 It is to zoom in and show Figure 1 A partial 3D view of the front of the battery module.

[0039] Figure 5 It was observed from the front. Figure 4 Front view of the battery module.

[0040] Figure 6 It is along Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the cross section intercepted by the cutting line A-A'.

[0041] Figure 7 It shows from Figure 1 A 3D view of the battery module with the elastic component removed.

[0042] Figure 8 It shows along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the section cut by the cutting line B-B'.

[0043] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 10 It shows along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the section cut by the cutting line C-C'. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Various embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, enabling those skilled in the art to readily implement them. This disclosure can be modified in various ways and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0046] For clarity in describing this disclosure, irrelevant parts will be omitted, and the same reference numerals will designate the same elements throughout the description.

[0047] Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the size and thickness of each element are arbitrarily illustrated for ease of description, and this disclosure is not necessarily limited to those illustrated in the drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the thickness of layers, regions, etc., is exaggerated for clarity. In the accompanying drawings, the thickness of some layers and regions is exaggerated for ease of description.

[0048] Furthermore, it will be understood that when an element such as a layer, membrane, region, or plate is referred to as being "on" or "above" another element, it can be directly on the other element, or there may be intermediate elements present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, it means that there are no other intermediate elements present. Additionally, the terms "on" or "above" imply that it is positioned above or below a reference portion, not necessarily at the upper end of the reference portion facing the opposite direction of gravity.

[0049] Additionally, throughout the description, when a section is referred to as "including" or "contains" a component, it means that the section may also include other components without excluding them, unless otherwise stated.

[0050] Additionally, throughout the description, when referred to as a "plane," it means viewing the target portion from above, and when referred to as a "section," it means viewing the target portion from one side of a vertically cut section.

[0051] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded 3D view of the battery module. Figure 3 It is shown that it includes Figure 2 3D diagram of battery cells in a battery module

[0052] Reference Figures 1 to 3 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery module 100 includes: a battery cell stack 200, wherein a plurality of battery cells 110, including electrode leads 111 and 112, are stacked thereon; a first sensing block 410 and a second sensing block 420, the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 respectively covering the front and rear surfaces from which the electrode leads 111 and 112 protrude from the battery cell stack 200; and an elastic member 700, the elastic member 700 covering the first sensing block 410, the second sensing block 420 and two side surfaces of the battery cell stack 200. Here, the front surface refers to the surface of the battery cell stack 200 in the y-axis direction, the rear surface refers to the surface of the battery cell stack 200 in the -y-axis direction, and the two side surfaces refer to the surfaces of the battery cell stack 200 in the x-axis and -x-axis directions, respectively. Additionally, the lower surface refers to the surface of the battery cell stack 200 in the -z-axis direction, and the upper surface refers to the surface of the battery cell stack 200 in the z-axis direction. However, these are surfaces mentioned for ease of explanation and may vary depending on the position of the target object or the observer. As described above, the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 200 may be the surfaces where the protruding electrode leads 111 and 112 of the battery cell 110 are located.

[0053] First, the battery cell 110 is preferably a pouch-type battery cell and can be formed into a rectangular sheet structure. The battery cell 110 according to this embodiment includes a protruding first electrode lead 111 and a second electrode lead 112. Specifically, the battery cell 110 according to this embodiment has the following structure: the first electrode lead 111 and the second electrode lead 112 face each other relative to the cell body 113 and protrude from one end 114a and the other end 114b, respectively. More specifically, the first electrode lead 111 and the second electrode lead 112 are connected to an electrode assembly (not shown) and protrude from the electrode assembly (not shown) to the outside of the battery cell 110. The first electrode lead 111 and the second electrode lead 112 have different polarities, and as an example, one of them can be a positive electrode lead 111 and the other can be a negative electrode lead 112. That is, the positive electrode lead 111 and the negative electrode lead 112 can protrude in opposite directions relative to a battery cell 110.

[0054] Furthermore, the battery cell 110 can be manufactured by joining the two ends 114a and 114b of the battery cell housing 114 to a side 114c that connects them, with the electrode assembly (not shown) housed in the cell housing 114. In other words, the battery cell 110 according to this embodiment has a total of three sealing portions, wherein the sealing portions have a structure that is sealed by a method such as heat sealing, and the remaining side portion can be formed by a connecting portion 115. The cell housing 114 can be formed of a laminate including a resin layer and a metal layer.

[0055] Battery cells 110 can be configured in multiples, and multiple battery cells 110 can be stacked to be electrically connected to each other, thereby forming a battery cell stack 200. Specifically, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, multiple battery cells 110 can be stacked along a direction parallel to the x-axis. Consequently, the first electrode lead 111 and the second electrode lead 112 can protrude towards the y-axis and -y-axis directions, respectively. That is, the first electrode lead 111 and the second electrode lead 112 can be located on the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 200.

[0056] The following will refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The first sensing block and the second sensing block according to this embodiment are described in detail.

[0057] Figure 4 It is shown in magnification Figure 1 A partial 3D view of the front of the battery module. Figure 5 It was observed from the front. Figure 4 A front view of the battery module. However, for ease of explanation, Figure 4 and Figure 5 It shows from Figure 1 The battery module is omitted Figure 4 The state of the elastic member 700.

[0058] Refer to together Figures 2 to 5 The first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 respectively cover the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 200 from which the electrode leads 111 and 112 protrude. More specifically, the first sensing block 410 may be located between the front surface of the battery cell stack 200 and the elastic member 700, and the second sensing block 420 may be located between the rear surface of the battery cell stack 200 and the elastic member 700. The elastic member 700 will be described later.

[0059] The first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 may comprise electrically insulating materials, and as examples, may comprise plastic, polymer, or composite materials. Additionally, the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 may have a basket shape and may be configured to cover the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 200, respectively.

[0060] Next, to avoid repetition, the main description will be... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The first sensing block 410 is shown, but the same or similar structure can be applied to the second sensing block 420.

[0061] As described above, electrode leads 111 and 112 can be located on the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack 200. A slit 410S can be formed in the first sensing block 410, and electrode leads 111 and 112 can pass through the slit 410S when the first sensing block 410 is arranged. Next, at least two electrode leads 111 and 112 can be bent and joined to form an electrode lead assembly 110L. Specifically, electrode leads 111 and 112 that protrude in the same direction relative to adjacent battery cells 110 are bent in a direction perpendicular to the protrusion direction of electrode leads 111 and 112 and joined to each other to form the electrode lead assembly 110L. Thus, one surface of the electrode lead assembly 110L can be perpendicular to the direction (y-axis direction) in which electrode leads 111 and 112 protrude from the battery cell 110. In this case, electrode leads with the same polarity can be joined to each other, or electrode leads with different polarities can be joined to each other. In other words, to achieve parallel connection between battery cells 110, electrode leads with the same polarity can be joined together, and to achieve series connection between battery cells 110, electrode leads with different polarities can be joined together. This can vary depending on the design of the battery module.

[0062] Furthermore, the electrode leads 111 and 112 of the battery cell 110, located outside the battery cell stack 200, can be connected to the terminal busbar 500. Unlike conventional battery modules where the electrode leads are connected to each other via a busbar, the electrode leads 111 and 112 of this embodiment are directly joined to each other, and a portion thereof can be connected to the terminal busbar 500 to form an HV (high voltage) connection. Here, an HV connection is a connection used as a power supply for supplying electricity, and refers to a connection between battery cells or between battery modules. Unlike conventional battery modules where the electrode leads are connected to each other via a busbar, the electrode leads 111 and 112 of this embodiment are directly joined to each other, and a portion thereof is connected to the terminal busbar 500, thereby forming an HV connection. Therefore, in the HV connection structure of this embodiment, the busbar and the busbar frame on which the busbar is mounted can be removed.

[0063] Furthermore, the battery module 100 according to this embodiment may include a low-voltage (LV) sensing component 900 for transmitting voltage information of the battery cells. The LV sensing component 900 may be located in at least one of the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420. Specifically, the LV sensing component 900 may be located on the opposite side of the surface of the first sensing block 410 facing the battery cell stack 200. Similarly, although not specifically shown in the figures, in some cases, the LV sensing component 900 may be located on the opposite side of the surface of the second sensing block 420 facing the battery cell stack 200.

[0064] The LV sensing component 900 is used for a low-voltage (LV) connection, where LV connection refers to a sensing connection used for sensing and controlling the voltage of the battery cell, etc. Voltage and temperature information of the battery cell 110 can be transmitted to an external BMS (Battery Management System) via the LV sensing component 900. This LV sensing component 900 can be connected to the electrode lead junction 110L.

[0065] The LV sensing assembly 900 may include an LV connector 910, a connecting member 920 for connecting the LV connector 910 and electrode leads 111 and 112, and a bonding plate 930 located at one end of the connecting member 920 and engaged with the electrode leads 111 and 112.

[0066] The LV connector 910 can be configured to send signals to and receive signals from an external control device to control multiple battery cells 110. The connection member 920 can be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) or a flexible flat cable (FFC). Voltage and temperature information measured from the multiple battery cells 110 can be transmitted to an external BMS (Battery Management System) via the connection member 920 and the LV connector 910. That is, the LV sensing component 900, including the LV connector 910 and the connection member 920, can detect and control phenomena such as overvoltage, overcurrent, and overheating in each battery cell 110. A bonding plate 930 is located at one end of the connection member 920 and can be made of a conductive metallic material. By bonding this bonding plate 930 to the electrode leads 111 and 112, the connection member 920 and the electrode leads 111 can be electrically and physically connected. Specifically, one side of the bonding plate 930 passes through the connecting member 920 and is then bent to engage with the connecting member 920, and the other side of the bonding plate 930 can be formed as a plate to be joined (in particular, welded) to the electrode leads 111 and 112.

[0067] Furthermore, as described above, the battery cells 110 can be stacked along the x-axis to form a battery cell stack 200, whereby electrode leads 111 and 112 can protrude in the y-axis and -y-axis directions, respectively. At this time, as described above, at least two electrode leads 111 and 112 can be bent and joined to form an electrode lead junction 110L. The bonding plate 930 of the LV sensing assembly 900 can be directly joined to the electrode lead junction 110L, allowing the LV sensing assembly 900 to be connected to the electrode leads 111 and 112. The battery module 100 according to this embodiment has the advantages that HV and LV connections are not performed separately but together, thus increasing productivity is expected, and the structure of the busbar frame, etc., can be eliminated, thereby enabling the manufacture of a more compact battery module 100.

[0068] According to this embodiment, the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 can guide the HV connection and LV connection of the battery module 100, and at the same time have a predetermined strength, so they can protect the battery cell 110.

[0069] When the electrode leads 111 and 112 used to form the electrode lead connector 110L are joined between each other or between the electrode lead connector 110L and the bonding plate 930, the joining method is not particularly limited, as long as electrical connection is possible, and welding can be performed as an example. Furthermore, while the electrode leads 111 and 112 protruding in the y-axis direction are mainly described, the structure of the electrode lead connector and the LV sensing assembly 900 can be similarly formed relative to the electrode leads 111 and 112 protruding in the -y-axis direction.

[0070] In addition, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the elastic member 700 according to this embodiment can cover the electrode leads 111 and 112, i.e., the electrode lead connector 110L. Structurally, the electrode lead connector 110L is located outside the first sensing block 410 or the second sensing block 420. The elastic member 700 covers the electrode lead connector 110L, thereby protecting the electrode lead connector 110L from the influence of the external environment.

[0071] The elastic member 700 will be described in detail below.

[0072] Refer again Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to this embodiment, the elastic member 700 can be continuously connected along the front surface, rear surface, and two side surfaces of the battery cell stack 200. More specifically, the elastic member 700 can be continuously connected along the first sensing block 410, the second sensing block 420, and the two side surfaces of the battery cell stack 200. During repeated charging and discharging of multiple battery cells 110, the internal electrolyte may decompose to generate gas, and the battery cells 110 may expand (i.e., expansion). In particular, each battery cell 110 may expand in the stacking direction (parallel to the x-axis). In this embodiment, because the elastic member 700 is continuously connected along the front surface, rear surface, and two side surfaces of the battery cell stack 200, the expansion of the battery cells 110 can be suppressed, and the deformation of the battery module 100 in the stacking direction of the battery cells 110 can be minimized.

[0073] The battery module according to this embodiment can be formed into a moduleless structure without a module frame and end plates. The battery module 100 can be held and fixed in shape by an elastic member 700 instead of a module frame or end plates. Specifically, the first sensing block 410, the battery cell stack 200, and the second sensing block 420 can be fixed together by the elastic member 700. When the module frame and end plates are removed, complex processes requiring precise control (e.g., the process of housing the battery cell stack 200 in the module frame or the process of assembling the module frame and end plates) are not required. Furthermore, the weight of the battery module 100 can be significantly reduced by removing the module frame and end plates. Additionally, the battery module 100 according to this embodiment has the advantage that, since the module frame is removed, rework is easier during the assembly of the battery pack, unlike conventional battery modules with a module frame that cannot be reworked even if defects occur in the welded structure of the module frame.

[0074] Furthermore, the elastic member 700 has openings at the top and bottom, thus exposing the upper and lower surfaces of the battery cell stack 200 to the outside. However, this is more conducive to heat dissipation compared to the case where it is surrounded by a module frame, thereby improving heat dissipation performance. Here, the upper surface refers to the surface of the battery cell stack 200 in the z-axis direction, and the lower surface refers to the surface of the battery cell stack 200 in the -z-axis direction.

[0075] In addition, there are no particular restrictions on the material of the elastic member 700, as long as it has a predetermined elastic force. For example, the material may include at least one of polymer composites, composites such as fiber reinforced plastics (FRB), and metal alloys.

[0076] The following will refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The external protrusion according to this embodiment will be described in detail. Figure 6 It is along Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the cross section intercepted by the cutting line A-A'. Figure 7 It means from Figure 1 A 3D view of the battery module with the elastic component removed.

[0077] Reference Figure 2 and Figures 5 to 7 According to this embodiment, both the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 include external protrusions 410a and 420a that protrude in a direction opposite to that of the battery cell stack 200. While surrounding the external protrusions 410a of the first sensing block 410 and 420a of the second sensing block 420, the elastic member 700 can be continuously connected along two side surfaces of the first sensing block 410, the second sensing block 420, and the battery cell stack 200.

[0078] The first sensing block 410 may include first external protrusions 410a projecting from both ends of the first sensing block 410 in a direction opposite to that of the battery cell stack 200. The two ends refer to the two ends in the width direction, not the two ends in the height direction. Figure 7 In this context, the direction opposite to the direction of the battery cell stack 200 relative to the first sensing block 410 refers to the y-axis direction.

[0079] Additionally, the second sensing block 420 may include second external protrusions 420a protruding from both ends of the second sensing block 420 in a direction opposite to that of the battery cell stack 200. Although Figure 7 Only one second protrusion 420a is shown; however, similar to the first protrusion 410a, two second protrusions 420a can be located at opposite ends of the second sensing block 420. "Opposite ends" refers to both ends in the width direction, not both ends in the height direction. Figure 7 In the middle, the direction opposite to the direction of the battery cell stack 200 relative to the second sensing block 420 refers to the -y axis direction.

[0080] The first protrusion 410a and the second protrusion 420a protrude in opposite directions.

[0081] That is, in the battery module 100 according to this embodiment, while surrounding the first external protrusion 410a and the second external protrusion 420a, the elastic member 700 can be continuously connected along the two side surfaces of the first sensing block 410, the second sensing block 420, and the battery cell stack 200. Specifically, when the first external protrusion 410a and the second external protrusion 420a are located at the two ends of the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420, respectively, the elastic member 700 can be tightened by the external protrusions 410a and 420a formed at the four corners of the battery module 100. Therefore, as Figure 6 As shown, due to the protrusions 410a and 420a, the elastic member 700 can be spaced apart from the electrode lead connector 110L at a predetermined distance.

[0082] As described above, because the elastic member 700 covers the electrode lead junction 110L, it can protect the electrode lead junction 110L from the influence of the external environment. However, the elasticity and pressure of the elastic member 700 may damage the electrode lead junction 110L through the elastic member 700. Therefore, the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 are provided with external protrusions 410a and 420a that protrude in the direction opposite to the direction of the battery cell stack 200, thereby attempting to prevent the elastic member 700 from directly contacting the electrode leads 111 and 112 (i.e., the electrode lead junction 110L). That is, by setting the elastic member 700 to cover the electrode lead junction 110L while being spaced apart at a predetermined distance, damage to the electrode lead junction 110L can be prevented.

[0083] The cooling fins and inner protrusions according to this embodiment will now be described in detail.

[0084] Refer again Figure 2 The battery module 100 according to this embodiment may further include cooling plates 300 located between the battery cells 110. Although Figure 2 Only one cooling plate 300 is shown, but according to this embodiment, the cooling plates 300 can all be located between each battery cell 110, or the cooling plates 300 can be arranged one after another between the battery cells with an interval of two battery cells 110.

[0085] The cooling fin 300 may include a metallic material with high thermal conductivity. The specific material is not limited; for example, it may include aluminum (Al). The cooling fin 300 with high thermal conductivity can be disposed between the battery cells 110 and directly attached to increase the cooling area. This improves cooling performance.

[0086] On the other hand, as described above, the lower part of the elastic member 700 has an opening, thereby exposing the lower surface of the battery cell stack 200 to the outside, wherein the cooling fin 300 according to this embodiment can protrude from the lower surface of the battery cell stack 200. Thus, the cooling fin 300 according to this embodiment can directly contact the thermally conductive resin layer described below. The cooling fin 300 disposed between the battery cells 110 is in direct contact with the thermally conductive resin layer, thereby maximizing the heat dissipation performance of the battery module.

[0087] Figure 8 It shows along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the section intercepted by the cutting line B-B'. Specifically, in... Figure 8 In order to show the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420, the middle part of the illustration is omitted.

[0088] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 According to this embodiment, at least one of the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 may include inner protrusions 410b and 420b protruding in the direction of the battery cell stack 200. The cooling plate 300 may contact the inner protrusions 410b and 420b.

[0089] The first sensing block 410 may include a first inner protrusion 410b protruding in the direction of the battery cell stack 200. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In this context, the direction in which the battery cell stack 200 is located relative to the first sensing block 410 refers to the -y axis direction.

[0090] Additionally, the second sensing block 420 may include a second inner protrusion 420b protruding in the direction of the battery cell stack 200. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the context of the second sensing block 420, the direction in which the battery cell stack 200 is located refers to the y-axis direction.

[0091] The first inner protrusion 410b and the second inner protrusion 420b protrude in a direction that positions them relative to each other.

[0092] At this time, the sum of the protruding length d1 of the first inner protrusion 410b and the length d2 of the cooling plate 300 contacting the first inner protrusion 410b can be equal to or greater than the length d3 of the cell body 113 of the battery cell 110. The protruding length d1 of the first inner protrusion 410b refers to the length by which the first inner protrusion 410b protrudes from the first sensing block 410. Similarly, although not specifically stated, the sum of the protruding length of the second inner protrusion 420b and the length of the cooling plate 300 contacting the second inner protrusion 420b can be equal to or greater than the length d3 of the cell body 113 of the battery cell 110.

[0093] In the battery module 100 according to this embodiment, pressure can be applied to the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 in the direction in which they are positioned relative to each other due to the elastic force of the elastic member 700. When this pressure is too great, the battery cell 110 located between the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 may be damaged. In at least one of the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420, inner protrusions 410b and 420b protruding in the direction in which the battery cell stack 200 is located are provided. At least one of the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 is configured to contact the cooling plate 300, thereby attempting to ensure the area of ​​the battery cell 110 and prevent damage to the battery cell 110. In other words, the cooling plate 300 and the inner protrusions 410b and 420b are configured to support the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420 (the elastic force of the elastic member 700 acts on the first sensing block 410 and the second sensing block 420), thereby enabling the setting of the contraction limit of the elastic member 700 and ensuring that the space in which the battery cell 110 can be located is not damaged. The cooling plate 300 is designed to perform not only a cooling function but also a support function.

[0094] On the other hand, such as Figure 8 As shown, the cooling plate 300 according to this embodiment can be a metal plate in which an air layer (AL) is formed. For example, the metal plate can be a two-layer structure formed from a metal plate such as aluminum (AL) with an air layer (AL) formed between the two layers. This air layer (AL) can be used as a heat insulation layer. Even if any battery cell 110 catches fire due to overheating, the spread of fire or heat to adjacent battery cells 110 can be delayed due to the air layer (AL) provided between the battery cells 110. That is, the time for the fire to spread to the peripheral battery cells 110 can be ensured, thereby improving the safety of the battery module 100.

[0095] Furthermore, because the cooling plate 300 according to this embodiment is a metal plate with a two-layer structure, it is easy to apply elastic restoring force to the expansion of the battery cell 110. Due to this elastic restoring force, when the battery cell 110 expands, the pressure transmitted to the battery cell 110 located on the opposite side can be reduced. That is, expansion is easier to control.

[0096] Additionally, refer to again Figure 1 and Figure 2 The battery module 100 according to this embodiment may further include a plate-shaped side surface pad 600 located between the two side surfaces of the battery cell stack 200 and the elastic member 700. Without removing the module frame and end plates, the side surface pad 600 is arranged on both sides of the battery cell stack 200 to supplement the rigidity of the battery module 100. The side surface pad 600 can supplement the rigidity of the battery module 100 and perform a cushioning function between the battery cell 110 and the elastic member 700. A pad made of foam material can be applied to the side surface pad 600.

[0097] Next, we will refer to Figures 9 to 10 A battery pack according to embodiments of the present disclosure is described in detail.

[0098] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10 It shows along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the section cut by the cutting line C-C'. Among them, Figure 10 Its cross-section is shown, assuming Figure 9 In this configuration, the battery module 100, the thermally conductive resin layer 1300, and the bottom 1110 of the battery pack frame 1100 are in contact with each other, unlike... Figure 9 Those shown in the image.

[0099] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery pack 1000 may include a battery module 100, a battery pack frame 1100 for housing the battery module 100, and a thermally conductive resin layer 1300 located between the battery module 100 and the bottom 1110 of the battery pack frame 1100.

[0100] As described above, the battery module 100 includes a battery cell stack 200, a first sensing block 410, a second sensing block 420, and an elastic member 700. Since the details of the battery module 100 are repeated above, further description will be omitted.

[0101] The battery pack 1000 may also include a cover 1200 for covering the battery pack frame 1100. That is, multiple battery modules 100 can be accommodated between the battery pack frame 1100 and the cover 1200.

[0102] The thermally conductive resin layer 1300 can be formed by coating the bottom 1110 with thermally conductive resin. Specifically, the thermally conductive resin is coated onto the bottom 1110, on which the battery module 100 according to this embodiment is located, and then the thermally conductive resin is cured to form the thermally conductive resin layer 1300.

[0103] The thermally conductive resin may include thermally conductive adhesive materials, and specifically, may include at least one of silicone resin materials, polyurethane materials, and acrylic materials. The thermally conductive resin is liquid when applied but cures after application, allowing it to serve to fix the plurality of battery cells 110 constituting the battery cell stack 200. Furthermore, due to the excellent heat transfer characteristics of the thermally conductive resin, heat generated in the battery module 100 can be rapidly transferred to the bottom 1110, thus preventing overheating of the battery pack 1000.

[0104] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As described above, the battery module 100 according to this embodiment can be formed with the following module-less structure: in this module-less structure, the module frame and end plate are removed, and the lower part of the elastic member 700 is open, exposing the lower part of the battery cell stack 200. In the battery pack 1000, the lower surface of the battery cell stack 200 is in contact with the thermally conductive resin layer 1300. Therefore, the heat generated in the battery cell 110 can be immediately transferred to the bottom 1110 of the battery pack frame 1100 via the thermally conductive resin layer 1300. In the case of a conventional battery module with a module frame, the heat transfer path is complex because the heat generated from the battery cell is discharged to the outside of the battery module through multiple layers. That is, it is difficult to effectively transfer the heat generated from the battery cell, and small air layers such as air gaps that may form between these layers may hinder heat transfer. In contrast, due to the fact that... Figure 10 The battery cell 110 shown in this embodiment is in direct contact with the thermally conductive resin layer 1300, which simplifies the heat transfer path in the lower direction of the battery module 100 and reduces the possibility of air gaps forming. Therefore, the cooling performance of the battery module 100 and the battery pack 1000 including it can be improved.

[0105] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the cooling fin 300 extends from the lower surface of the battery cell stack 200 to contact the thermally conductive resin layer 1300. Since the lower surface of the battery cell stack 200 is exposed, the cooling fin 300 located between the battery cells 110 can directly contact the thermally conductive resin layer 1300 on the bottom 1110. By configuring the cooling fin 300 facing the battery cell 110 to directly contact the thermally conductive resin layer 1300, heat dissipation performance can be maximized.

[0106] Furthermore, in a moduleless structure where the module frame is removed, the exposed battery cells 110 must be secured for structural safety. Therefore, in the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, since each battery cell 110 constituting the battery module 100 is secured and simultaneously in contact with the thermally conductive resin layer 1300, structural safety is enhanced.

[0107] Furthermore, unnecessary cooling structures can be eliminated, thereby reducing costs. Additionally, the reduced number of components along the 1000-meter height of the battery pack increases space utilization, allowing for an increase in battery module capacity or output.

[0108] Although this embodiment uses terms indicating directions such as front, back, left, right, up, and down, these terms are merely for ease of explanation and may vary depending on the position of the object, the position of the observer, etc.

[0109] One or more battery modules according to embodiments of this disclosure can be installed together with various control and protection systems such as BMS (Battery Management System) and cooling system to form a battery pack.

[0110] Battery modules or battery packs can be applied to a variety of devices. Such devices can be applied to vehicle devices such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, or hybrid vehicles, but this disclosure is not limited thereto and applies to a variety of devices that can use secondary batteries.

[0111] Although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims also fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0112] Attached image captions

[0113] 100: Battery module;

[0114] 200: Battery cell stacking assembly;

[0115] 410: First sensing block;

[0116] 420: Second sensing block;

[0117] 700: Elastic component

Claims

1. A battery module comprising: a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells including electrode leads are stacked; first and second sensing blocks covering front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack from which the electrode leads protrude; and an elastic member covering the first and second sensing blocks and both side surfaces of the battery cell stack, wherein each of the first and second sensing blocks includes an outer protrusion protruding in a direction opposite to a direction in which the battery cell stack is located, wherein the first sensing block includes first outer protrusions protruding from both ends of the first sensing block in a width direction in a direction opposite to the direction in which the battery cell stack is located, and the second sensing block includes second outer protrusions protruding from both ends of the second sensing block in the width direction in a direction opposite to the direction in which the battery cell stack is located. 2.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the elastic member surrounds the outer protrusions of the first and second sensing blocks. 3.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the elastic member is continuous while surrounding the first and second outer protrusions. 4.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the elastic member is continuously connected along both side surfaces of the battery cell stack, the first and second sensing blocks. 5.The battery module of claim 1, wherein upper and lower surfaces of the battery cell stack are exposed. 6.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the electrode leads include first and second electrode leads protruding from the battery cells in directions opposite to each other. 7.The battery module of claim 1, wherein on the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack, at least two electrode leads are connected to each other to form an electrode lead junction body. 8.The battery module of claim 1, wherein the electrode leads are directly joined to each other, and a portion of the electrode leads is connected to a terminal busbar to form a high voltage (HV) connection. 9.The battery module of claim 7, wherein a low voltage (LV) sensing assembly is located in at least one of the first and second sensing blocks, and the LV sensing assembly is connected to the electrode lead junction body. 10.The battery module of claim 9, wherein the LV sensing assembly includes an LV connector, a connection member for connecting the LV connector and the electrode leads, and a junction plate located at one end of the connection member and joined to the electrode leads. 11.The battery module of claim 7, wherein a slit is formed in the first and second sensing blocks, and the slit is filled with the elastic member. The electrode lead passes through the slit and is bent to form the electrode lead junction body. 12.The battery module of claim 11, wherein, The elastic member is spaced apart from the electrode lead junction body due to the outer protrusion. 13.The battery module of claim 1, further comprising: Cooling fins between the battery cells.

14. The battery module of claim 13, wherein, At least one of the first sensing block and the second sensing block includes an inner protrusion protruding in a direction in which the battery cell stack is located, and The cooling fins are in contact with the inner protrusion. 15.The battery module of claim 14, wherein, The sum of the protruding length of the inner protrusion and the length of the cooling fins in contact with the inner protrusion is equal to or greater than the length of the cell body of the battery cell. 16.A battery pack, comprising: The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 15; A battery pack frame accommodating the battery module; and A thermally conductive resin layer between a bottom of the battery pack frame and the battery module, wherein the elastic member is opened at a lower portion thereof, thereby exposing a lower surface of the battery cell stack. 17.The battery pack of claim 16, wherein, The lower surface of the battery cell stack is in contact with the thermally conductive resin layer.

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