Battery pack and vehicle including the same

Abstract

Disclosed is a battery pack having improved cooling performance. A battery pack according to an aspect of the present invention may comprise: a plurality of battery modules including a plurality of battery cells and a cooling tube for cooling the plurality of battery cells; a pack case providing an internal space therein and accommodating a plurality of battery modules therein; and a duct assembly disposed inside the pack case and connecting the cooling tubes of the plurality of battery modules in at least one direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery pack and a vehicle including the same, and more particularly, to a battery pack having improved cooling performance and a vehicle including the same.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0181799 filed on December 22, 2022 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0082842 filed on June 27, 2023, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] Secondary batteries that are easy to apply according to product groups and have electrical characteristics such as high energy density are generally used in electric vehicles (EV) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) driven by electric drive sources and portable devices. These secondary batteries are of interest as new energy sources for improving eco-friendliness and increasing energy efficiency because they have the main advantage of being able to significantly reduce the use of fossil fuels and do not produce byproducts due to energy use.

[0004] The types of secondary batteries widely used at present include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, etc. The operating voltage of the unit secondary battery cell (i.e., unit battery cell) is about 2.5V to 4.5V. Therefore, when an output voltage higher than this is required, a battery pack can be configured by connecting a plurality of battery cells in series. In addition, according to the required charge / discharge capacity of the battery pack, the battery pack can be configured by connecting a plurality of battery cells in parallel. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery pack can be set in various ways according to the required output voltage and / or charge / discharge capacity.

[0005] In addition, a common method of configuring a battery pack by connecting a plurality of battery cells in series / parallel is to preferentially configure a battery module including at least one battery cell and then add other elements using the at least one battery module to thereby configure a battery pack or a battery rack.

[0006] The above-mentioned battery pack is configured so that a battery module including a plurality of battery cells is densely packed in a narrow space, and if a plurality of battery cells are densely packed in a narrow space, the temperature may increase as the battery cells continue to be used. For example, as the temperature inside the battery pack continues to increase, the performance of the battery pack may deteriorate, or the battery pack may explode, resulting in casualties. Summary of the invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] The present disclosure is designed to solve the problems of the related art, and thus the present disclosure aims to provide a battery pack with improved cooling performance by connecting a plurality of cooling pipes.

[0009] The present disclosure also provides a battery pack configured such that its structure can be easily changed to comply with required cooling performance.

[0010] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to the above problems, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other problems not mentioned above from the description of the present invention described below.

[0011] Technical Solution

[0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a plurality of battery modules, the plurality of battery modules comprising a plurality of battery cells and cooling pipes configured to cool the plurality of battery cells; a battery pack housing, the battery pack housing providing an internal space to accommodate the plurality of battery modules therein; and a pipe assembly, the pipe assembly being disposed inside the battery pack housing and configured to connect the cooling pipes of the plurality of battery modules on one side.

[0013] The duct assembly may include: an intra-module duct configured to connect cooling tubes within each battery module; and an extra-module duct configured to connect adjacent cooling tubes between the plurality of battery modules.

[0014] The plurality of battery modules may include: a cooling pipe having at least a portion disposed between the plurality of battery cells in a longitudinal direction of the battery pack; and a plurality of side structure units configured to accommodate the cooling pipe and the plurality of battery cells.

[0015] Furthermore, the duct assembly may be disposed on one side of the battery pack case in a space between an inner wall of the battery pack case and the plurality of side structure units.

[0016] The cooling pipe may include: a main body disposed between the plurality of battery cells; and a protrusion connected to the main body and protruding from at least one end of the main body.

[0017] Furthermore, the duct assembly may connect the protrusions of a plurality of battery modules on one side.

[0018] The protrusion may have a plurality of ports on both sides configured to be connected to the pipe assembly by being inserted into the pipe assembly.

[0019] The intra-module duct may include: a duct body configured to form a passage in an inner space; and coupling parts provided at both sides of the duct body and configured to be coupled to the port.

[0020] The coupling portion may have a plurality of ribs protruding from an outer surface.

[0021] The first gap prevention member may be disposed between the port and the pipe assembly, and the port may have a first groove configured to receive the first gap prevention member.

[0022] The extra-module conduit may be configured such that its length is adjustable.

[0023] The off-module duct may be configured as a plurality of duct members coupled to be slidable relative to each other.

[0024] The second gap prevention member may be disposed between the plurality of pipe members, and at least one of the plurality of pipe members coupled to each other may have a second groove configured to accommodate the second gap prevention member.

[0025] The projection may include a cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion disposed in the interior space and in communication with the port.

[0026] Furthermore, the body may include a cooling channel disposed in the interior space and communicating with the cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion.

[0027] The port may include: a first inlet and a second inlet disposed at positions corresponding to each other on both sides of the protrusion; and a first outlet and a second outlet disposed at positions corresponding to each other different from the positions of the inlets.

[0028] The cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion may include: a first inlet / outlet portion communicating with the first inlet and the second inlet; and a second inlet / outlet portion communicating with the first outlet and the second outlet.

[0029] Furthermore, the cooling passage may include: a first passage in communication with the first inlet / outlet portion; and a second passage in communication with the second inlet / outlet portion;

[0030] A vehicle according to the present disclosure may include a battery pack according to the present disclosure.

[0031] Beneficial Effects

[0032] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the cooling performance of the battery pack can be improved by connecting a plurality of cooling pipes included in the battery pack using a pipe assembly. In addition, a single water injection system is applied to a single cooling system obtained by connecting a plurality of cooling pipes by the pipe assembly, rather than applying the water injection system to each cooling pipe, thereby improving the cooling efficiency and space utilization of the battery pack.

[0033] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when a plurality of cooling pipes are connected using a pipe assembly, all cooling pipes may be connected using only two components, namely, an intra-module pipe used inside a battery module and an extra-module pipe used between battery modules. This may facilitate the assembly process and the manufacturing process.

[0034] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when connecting the pipe assembly and the cooling pipe, a gap generated by component tolerances caused by differences between components and / or assembly tolerances such as misalignment of the center axis, etc. during the manufacturing process can be prevented or reduced. In addition, when connecting the pipe assembly and the cooling pipe, the bonding strength and waterproof performance to the cooling fluid can be increased.

[0035] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the structure of the pipe in the module can be easily changed according to the flow rate of the cooling fluid required for the cooling performance of the battery pack. In addition, as described above, by providing a first gap prevention member between the port and the coupling portion, the corresponding portion can be made thicker to prevent deformation due to the repulsive force of the first gap prevention member. In addition, the structure of the pipe in the module can be changed so that even if the port and the coupling portion are coupled to each other, the inner diameter of the port and the inner diameter of the pipe body are substantially the same, thereby minimizing the friction caused by the flow of the cooling fluid when the cooling fluid passes through the boundary between the coupling portion and the pipe body.

[0036] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when connecting the module external pipe and the port, the gap caused by the component tolerance and / or assembly tolerance (such as misalignment of the center axis, etc.) due to the difference between the components during the manufacturing process can be prevented or reduced. In addition, when connecting the module external pipe and the port, the bonding strength and waterproof performance to the cooling fluid can be increased. The module external pipe can be easily slid by the second gap prevention member to adjust its length, and the friction coefficient of the second gap prevention member with one pipe is less than the friction coefficient between one pipe and another pipe. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 2 is an exploded view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating a battery module included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a battery pack with some elements separated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 5 yes Figure 4A magnified view of a local area.

[0042] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating a connection relationship between a battery module and a duct assembly included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of a local area.

[0044] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a cooling pipe included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing that a cooling fluid flows through a cooling pipe included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Fig.10 is a diagram illustrating an intra-module pipe included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Fig.11 is a diagram illustrating a cross section of an intra-module duct included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Fig.12 is a diagram illustrating an intra-module pipe included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Fig.13 is a diagram illustrating a cross section of an intra-module duct included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Fig.14 is a diagram illustrating an intra-module pipe included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Fig.15 is a diagram illustrating a cross section of an intra-module duct included in a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Fig.16 is a diagram illustrating an out-of-module pipe included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Fig.17 is an exploded view of an off-module duct included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Fig.18 is a diagram illustrating a sliding method of an out-of-module duct included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Fig.19 is a diagram showing some elements of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 20 to Figure 22 is a diagram illustrating a connection process of external-module pipes between adjacent battery modules included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Fig.23 is a diagram showing a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] The preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings show preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and are used together with the detailed description of the present invention to provide a further understanding of the technical concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not to be construed as being limited to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals represent the same elements. In addition, in order to facilitate the explanation of the technical content, the thickness, ratio and size of each element shown in the accompanying drawings are magnified.

[0059] It should be understood that the terms used in the specification and the appended claims should not be interpreted as limited to the general meaning and dictionary meaning, but should be interpreted based on the meaning and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure based on the principle allowing the inventor to appropriately define the terms for the best interpretation.

[0060] Although terms indicating directions such as upward and downward are used in the present specification, it is obvious to those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains that these terms are merely for convenience of explanation and may vary depending on the position of a target object or the position of an observer.

[0061] Therefore, the configurations proposed in the embodiments of this specification and the drawings only indicate the most preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, but do not represent all technical ideas of the present disclosure, and therefore it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications may be made thereto when the present application is filed.

[0062] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of a battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is an exploded view of the battery pack 2 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating a battery module 20 included in a battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] refer to Figures 1 to 3 , a battery pack 2 according to the present disclosure may include a plurality of battery modules 20 , a battery pack case 10 , and a duct assembly 30 .

[0064] refer to Figure 3 , each of the plurality of battery modules 20 may include a plurality of battery cells 210 and a cooling tube 220 .

[0065] Although the battery cell 210 is not shown in detail, a plurality of battery cells 210 may be provided. The battery cell 210 may indicate a secondary battery. The battery cell 210 may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a battery case accommodating the electrode assembly and the electrolyte. The battery cell 210 may be, for example, a cylindrical secondary battery.

[0066] The cooling pipe 220 may be configured to cool the plurality of battery cells 210. The cooling pipe 220 may be configured to have an inner space in which a cooling fluid flows. The cooling pipe 220 may be disposed around the plurality of battery cells 210 and / or between the plurality of battery cells 210.

[0067] The battery pack housing 10 may provide an internal space. The battery pack housing 10 may accommodate a plurality of battery modules 20 in the internal space. The battery pack housing 10 may have a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The battery pack housing 10 may include a housing body 11 and a battery pack cover 12. The housing body 11 may be configured in the form of a box having an open top, and a plurality of battery modules 20 may be accommodated in the internal space. The battery pack cover 12 may be configured as a cover covering the upper opening of the housing body 11.

[0068] The duct assembly 30 may be disposed inside the battery pack case 10. The duct assembly 30 may be connected to the cooling pipe 220 at least on one side. However, the duct assembly 30 may also be connected to the cooling pipe 220 on one side and on the opposite side of the one side.

[0069] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, a plurality of cooling tubes 220 included in the battery pack 2 can be connected using the pipe assembly 30, thereby improving the cooling performance of the battery pack 2. In addition, a single water injection system can be applied to a single cooling system obtained by connecting a plurality of cooling tubes 220 by the pipe assembly 30, rather than applying the water injection system to the corresponding cooling tubes 220, thereby improving the cooling efficiency and space utilization of the battery pack 2.

[0070] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a battery pack 2 with some elements separated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of a local area.

[0071] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The pipe assembly 30 may include an in-module pipe 310 and an out-module pipe 320 .

[0072] The intra-module duct 310 may connect the cooling tubes 220 in each battery module 20. The intra-module duct 310 may connect adjacent cooling tubes 220 in one battery module 20. The intra-module duct 310 may connect the cooling tubes 220 by forming a passage in the internal space.

[0073] The module outer pipe 320 may connect adjacent cooling pipes 220 between a plurality of modules. The module outer pipe 320 may connect a pair of adjacent cooling pipes 220 between a pair of adjacent battery modules 20. The module outer pipe 320 may connect the cooling pipes 220 by forming a channel in the internal space.

[0074] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, when a plurality of cooling tubes 220 are connected using the tube assembly 30, all cooling tubes 220 can be connected using only two members, i.e., the intra-module tube 310 used inside the battery module 20 and the extra-module tube 320 used between the battery modules 20. This facilitates the assembly process and the manufacturing process.

[0075] For further reference Figure 3 , the battery module 20 may include a side structure unit 230 .

[0076] The side structure unit 230 may be configured to accommodate the cooling pipe 220 and the plurality of battery cells 210. The side structure unit 230 may include a main unit 231 and an end unit 232.

[0077] The main unit 231 may be formed to have a predetermined length in the longitudinal direction of the battery module 20. A plurality of main units 231 may be provided. The main unit 231 may accommodate a plurality of batteries in two rows in the width direction of the battery module 20. The main unit 231 may include a first battery accommodating portion 231a and a second battery accommodating portion 231b, the first battery accommodating portion 231a being disposed on a first side of the main unit 231 so as to accommodate a plurality of batteries arranged in the longitudinal direction of the battery module 20, and a second battery accommodating portion 231b being disposed on a second side of the main unit 231 (the second side being the opposite side of the first battery accommodating portion 231a) so as to accommodate a plurality of batteries arranged in the longitudinal direction of the battery module 20.

[0078] The first battery receiving portion 231a may be disposed on the front side (+X-axis direction) of the main unit 231 along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the main unit 231. The first battery receiving portion 231a may receive a plurality of battery cells 210 arranged along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the battery module 20. To this end, a plurality of first battery receiving portions 231a may be disposed on the front side (+X-axis direction) of the main unit 231.

[0079] The plurality of first battery receiving portions 231 a may be configured in concave shapes respectively corresponding to outer surfaces of the battery cells 210 , and may at least partially surround the outer surfaces of the battery cells 210 .

[0080] The second battery accommodating portion 231b may be disposed on the back side (directed in the -X axis direction) of the main unit 231 along the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the main unit 231. The second battery accommodating portion 231b may accommodate a plurality of battery cells 210 arranged along the longitudinal direction (Y axis direction) of the battery module 20. To this end, a plurality of second battery accommodating portions 231b may be disposed on the back side (-X axis direction) of the main unit 231.

[0081] The plurality of second battery receiving portions 231 b may be configured in concave shapes respectively corresponding to outer surfaces of the battery cells 210 , and may at least partially surround the outer surfaces of the battery cells 210 .

[0082] The plurality of second battery receiving parts 231 b and the plurality of first battery receiving parts 231 a may be arranged in a staggered pattern in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction) of the main unit 231 to receive as many battery cells 210 configured as cylindrical secondary batteries as possible.

[0083] The duct assembly 30 may be disposed on one side of the pack case 10 . Specifically, the duct assembly 30 may be disposed in a space between an inner wall of the pack case 10 and the plurality of side structure units 230 .

[0084] Figure 6 is a diagram showing a connection relationship between a battery module 20 and a duct assembly 30 included in a battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] Hereinafter, a coupling structure of the plurality of battery cells 210 and the cooling pipe 220 through the side structure unit 230 will be described in more detail.

[0086] refer to Figure 6 , the cooling pipe 220 may be inserted between the battery cells 210 arranged in two rows (i.e., front and rear rows) along the width direction (X-axis direction) among the plurality of battery cells 210. The side structure unit 230 may accommodate the battery cells 210 facing each other in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction) of the battery cells 210, with the cooling pipe 220 interposed between the battery cells 210.

[0087] Specifically, the outermost end unit 232, the plurality of battery cells 210, the cooling tube 220, the plurality of battery cells 210, and the main unit 231 may be arranged in the width direction (X-axis direction) of the battery module 20, and then the plurality of battery cells 210, the cooling tube 220, the plurality of battery cells 210, and the main unit 231 may be arranged in sequence, and adjacent cooling tubes 220 may be connected to each other through the pipe assembly 30. Thereafter, the outermost end unit 232 may be disposed on the opposite side of the battery module 20 in the width direction (X-axis direction), thereby completing the coupling of the side structure unit 230, so that the side structure unit 230 may accommodate the plurality of battery cells 210 and the cooling tube 220 therein.

[0088] According to the construction of the present disclosure, since the connection between the cooling pipes 220 is simultaneously realized through the pipe assembly 30 in units of the battery module 20 when the side structure unit 230, the plurality of battery cells 210 and the cooling pipe 220 are connected, the connection process of the pipe assembly 30 can be further simplified, thereby reducing the assembly tap time of the pipe assembly 30 and significantly improving the assembly quality.

[0089] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of a local area. Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a cooling pipe 220 included in a battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing that a cooling fluid flows through a cooling pipe 220 included in a battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] refer to Figures 7 to 9 The cooling pipe 220 may include a body 221 and a protrusion 222 .

[0091] The body 221 may be disposed between the plurality of battery cells 210. The body 221 may be disposed between a pair of main units 231 adjacent to each other. The body 221 may be disposed between the main unit 231 and the end unit 232 adjacent to each other. The body 221 may have an internal space and have a shape substantially corresponding to the outer surface of the plurality of battery cells 210 adjacent thereto.

[0092] The protrusion 222 may be connected to the main body 221 and may protrude from at least one end of the main body 221. The protrusion 222 may have an internal space and have a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The protrusion 222 may be formed at the front portion in the longitudinal direction of the side structure. The protrusion 222 may be provided between the ends of a pair of main units 231 adjacent to each other. The protrusion 222 may be provided between one end of the main unit 231 and one end of the end unit 232, and one end of the main unit 231 and one end of the end unit 232 are adjacent to each other.

[0093] Also refer to Figure 5 , the duct assembly 30 may connect the protrusion 222 at one side. The duct assembly 30 may connect the protrusion 222 at the front in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the side structure. The duct assembly 30 may connect the adjacent protrusions 222 on both sides of the protrusion 222.

[0094] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, the protrusion 222 is connected only on one side, and there is no need to provide the protrusion 222 and its water injection system on the other side (ie, the opposite side to the one side), thereby increasing the energy density of the battery pack 2.

[0095] Return to reference Figure 8 , the protrusion 222 may have a plurality of ports 223 . The battery pack 2 may have a first gap prevention member 40 .

[0096] The ports 223 may be provided on both sides of the protrusion 222. Two ports 223 may be provided on each side of the protrusion 222. The ports 223 may be configured to be inserted into and connected to the pipe assembly 30. Each port 223 may be configured in the form of a pipe protruding from one side of the protrusion 222. The ports 223 may be configured in the form of a pipe having a diameter smaller than a diameter of the pipe assembly 30 into which the ports 223 are inserted.

[0097] The first gap prevention member 40 may be disposed between the port 223 and the pipe assembly 30. The first gap prevention member 40 may be an O-ring having a diameter substantially corresponding to a diameter of the port 223. The first gap prevention member 40 may include a rubber member.

[0098] Return to reference Figure 8 , the port 223 may include a first groove H1.

[0099] The first groove H1 may be configured to receive the first gap prevention member 40. The first groove H1 may be formed along the outer circumference of the port 223. The first groove H1 may be formed adjacent to an end of the port 223.

[0100] According to such a configuration of the present disclosure, when the duct assembly 30 and the cooling pipe 220 are connected, a gap caused by component tolerance and / or assembly tolerance (such as misalignment of the central axis, etc.) due to differences between components during the manufacturing process can be prevented or reduced. In addition, when the duct assembly 30 and the cooling pipe 220 are connected, the bonding strength and waterproof performance against the cooling fluid can be increased.

[0101] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing that a cooling fluid flows through a cooling pipe 220 included in a battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0102] refer to Fig. 9 , the protrusion 222 may include a cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion A. The body 221 may include a cooling channel C.

[0103] The cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion A may be provided in the inner space of the protrusion 222. The cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion A may communicate with the port 223.

[0104] The cooling channel C may be provided in the inner space of the body 221. The cooling channel C may communicate with the cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion A.

[0105] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, the cooling fluid introduced through the port 223 can flow to the cooling channel C through the cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion A and then exit through the port 223, thereby cooling the battery cell 210 adjacent to the cooling tube 220. Fig. 9 Describe the cooling process in more detail.

[0106] The port 223 may include a first inlet I1, a second inlet I2, a first outlet O1, and a second outlet O2. The first inlet I1 and the second inlet I2 may be disposed at positions corresponding to each other on both sides of the protrusion 222. The first outlet O1 and the second outlet O2 may be disposed at positions corresponding to each other on both sides of the protrusion 222 that are different from the above-mentioned inlet positions. Based on the longitudinal direction of the battery module 20, the first inlet I1 and the second inlet I2 may be disposed outward from the first outlet O1 and the second outlet O2.

[0107] The cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion A may include a first inlet / outlet portion A1 and a second inlet / outlet portion A2. The first inlet / outlet portion A1 may be in communication with the first inlet I1 and the second inlet I2. The second inlet / outlet portion A2 may be in communication with the first outlet O1 and the second outlet O2. The first inlet / outlet portion A1 and the second inlet / outlet portion A2 may not be in direct communication with each other. The first inlet / outlet portion A1 and the second inlet / outlet portion A2 may be in indirect communication with each other through a cooling channel C.

[0108] The cooling channel C may include a first channel C1 and a second channel C2. The first channel C1 may be communicated with the first inlet / outlet portion A1. The second channel C2 may be communicated with the second inlet / outlet portion A2. The first channel C1 and the second channel C2 may be communicated with each other at the end opposite to the protrusion 222. The body 221 may have a partition W substantially at the center in the X-axis direction so as to separate the first channel C1 and the second channel C2 from each other.

[0109] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, the cooling fluid is introduced through the first inlet I1, and some of the introduced cooling fluid flows to the second inlet I2 and enters the adjacent cooling tube 220 through the pipe assembly 30, and the remaining cooling fluid is collected in the first inlet / outlet portion A1. The cooling fluid collected in the first inlet / outlet portion A1 flows along the first channel C1 to the opposite side of the first inlet / outlet portion A1, thereby cooling the battery cells 210 located around the cooling tube 220. The cooling fluid flowing through the first channel C1 flows back in the opposite direction along the second channel C2, thereby also cooling the battery cells 210 located around the cooling tube 220. The cooling fluid flowing through the second channel C2 is collected in the second inlet / outlet portion A2. The cooling fluid collected in the second inlet / outlet portion A2 leaves through the first outlet O1 together with the cooling fluid flowing from the adjacent cooling tube 220 through the pipe assembly 30 to the second outlet O2. In order to force the cooling fluid to flow, a one-way valve may be provided in the first inlet I1, the second inlet I2, the first outlet O1, and the second outlet O2.

[0110] Fig.10 is a diagram illustrating an intra-module duct 310 included in a battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.11 is a diagram showing a cross section of an intra-module duct 310 included in the battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.12 is a diagram illustrating an intra-module duct 310 included in a battery pack 2 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.13 is a diagram illustrating a cross section of an intra-module duct 310 included in a battery pack 2 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.14 is a diagram illustrating an intra-module duct 310 included in a battery pack 2 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.15 is a diagram illustrating a cross section of an intra-module duct 310 included in a battery pack 2 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0111] refer to Figures 10 to 16 The intra-module pipe 310 may include a pipe body 311 and a connecting portion 312 .

[0112] The pipe body 311 may have a channel formed therein. The pipe body 311 may be substantially disposed in the middle of the pipe 310 within the module. The pipe body 311 may be substantially in the shape of a hollow cylinder. The inner diameter of the pipe body 311 may be approximately equal to the value obtained by subtracting the thickness of the port 223 from the inner diameter of the coupling portion 312.

[0113] The coupling portion 312 may be provided at both sides of the pipe body 311. The coupling portion 312 may be provided at both ends of the pipe body 311 in the X-axis direction. The coupling portion 312 may be configured to be coupled to the port 223. The coupling portion 312 may be configured such that the port 223 is inserted therein. The inner diameter of the coupling portion 312 may be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the port 223. The inner diameter of the coupling portion 312 may be approximately equal to the sum of the thickness of the port 223 and the inner diameter of the pipe body 311.

[0114] Fig.12 and Fig.13 The module pipe 310 shown in FIG. Fig.10 and Fig.11 The illustrated module-internal pipe 310 has different thicknesses of the connection portion 312. The inner diameter and / or outer diameter of the connection portion 312 may be produced differently depending on the flow rate of the cooling fluid required for the cooling performance of the battery pack 2. The inner diameter and / or outer diameter of the pipe body 311 may also be adjusted accordingly.

[0115] and Figures 10 to 13 The shown intra-module piping 310 is different. Fig.14 and Fig.15 The illustrated in-module pipe 310 has a plurality of ribs R in the coupling portion 312. The in-module pipe 310 may have a plurality of ribs R protruding from the outer surface of the coupling portion 312. The plurality of ribs R may be radially disposed on the outer surface of the coupling portion 312. For example, Fig.14 As shown, four ribs R may be radially provided at intervals of about 90 degrees on the outer surface of the coupling portion 312. The coupling portion 312 may have the ribs R provided on its outer surface to increase rigidity according to the flow rate of the cooling fluid required for cooling performance of the battery pack 2.

[0116] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, the structure of the intra-module duct 310 can be easily modified according to the flow rate of the cooling fluid required for the cooling performance of the battery pack 2. In addition, as described above, in the case where the first gap prevention member 40 is provided between the port 223 and the coupling portion 312, the thickness of the corresponding portion can be made thicker to prevent deformation due to the repulsive force of the first gap prevention member 40. In addition, the structure of the intra-module duct 310 can be changed so that even if the port 223 and the coupling portion 312 are coupled to each other, the inner diameter of the port 223 and the inner diameter of the duct body 311 are substantially the same, thereby minimizing the friction caused by the flow of the cooling fluid when the cooling fluid passes through the boundary between the coupling portion 312 and the duct body 311.

[0117] Fig.16 is a diagram illustrating an out-module duct 320 included in the battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.17is an exploded view of an out-of-module duct 320 included in the battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.18 is a diagram illustrating a sliding method of the out-module duct 320 included in the battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] refer to Figures 16 to 18 , the module outer pipeline 320 can be configured into multiple pipeline components.

[0119] The module outer pipe 320 can be configured to have an adjustable length. Multiple pipe members can be coupled to be slidable relative to each other. For example, Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, one pipe member 321 may be coupled to another pipe member 322 to be slidable relative to each other by inserting one pipe member 321 into the other pipe member 322 .

[0120] Also refer to Figure 5 , another pipe member 322 may have a coupling portion 312 at an opposite end to the end to be inserted. The coupling portion 312 may be configured to be coupled to the port 223. The coupling portion 312 may be configured such that the port 223 is inserted therein.

[0121] Return to reference Fig.16 and Fig.17 , the second gap prevention member 50 may be disposed between the plurality of pipe members. At least one of the plurality of pipe members coupled to each other may have a second groove H2 configured to accommodate the second gap prevention member 50 .

[0122] The second gap preventing member 50 may be disposed between the one pipe member 321 and the other pipe member 322 to be inserted into the one pipe member 321. The second gap preventing member 50 may be an O-ring having a diameter substantially corresponding to a diameter of the other pipe member 322. The second gap preventing member 50 may include a member having a friction coefficient against the one pipe member 321 that is smaller than a friction coefficient between the one pipe member 321 and the other pipe member 322.

[0123] The other pipe member 322 may be provided with a second groove H2. The second groove H2 may be configured to accommodate the second gap prevention member 50. The second groove H2 may be formed on the outer circumference of the other pipe member 322. The second groove H2 may be formed adjacent to an end of the other pipe member 322.

[0124] A coupling portion 312 configured to be coupled to the port 223 may be provided at ends of the one pipe member 321 and the other pipe member 322 .

[0125] According to this configuration of the present disclosure, a gap caused by component tolerance and / or assembly tolerance (such as misalignment of the central axis when connecting the module outer pipe 320 and the port 223) due to differences between components during the manufacturing process can be prevented or reduced. In addition, when connecting the module outer pipe 320 and the port 223, the bonding strength and waterproof performance to the cooling fluid can be increased. The module outer pipe can be easily slid by the second gap prevention member 50 to adjust its length, and the friction coefficient of the second gap prevention member 50 with one pipe 321 is less than the friction coefficient between one pipe 321 and another pipe 322.

[0126] Fig.19 is a diagram showing some elements of a battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] refer to Fig.19 , the battery pack case 10 may be provided with a cross beam B. The end unit 232 may be provided with a fixing portion 232 a.

[0128] The beam B may be disposed between a pair of battery modules 20 adjacent to each other. The beam B may separate the pair of battery modules 20 adjacent to each other. The beam B may be a beam protruding from the inner surface of the battery pack case 10 by a predetermined length.

[0129] The fixing portion 232a may be configured to be coupled to the beam B. The fixing portion 232a may have a hole through which a bolt is inserted so as to be coupled to the beam B using the bolt. The fixing portions 232a adjacent to each other of a pair of battery modules 20 may be configured to be coupled to the beam B in a staggered manner.

[0130] Figure 20 to Figure 22 is a diagram illustrating a connection process of the out-module pipe 320 between adjacent battery modules 20 included in the battery pack 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0131] refer to Figure 20 to Figure 22 , the assembly process of the battery pack 2 through the length-adjustable module outer pipe 320 will be described in detail.

[0132] Fig. 20 2 is a diagram showing a state before the external module pipe 320 is connected between adjacent battery modules 20. Fig. 20 The battery modules 20 may be produced and assembled in module units to be placed on the inner surface of the battery pack case 10. The battery modules 20 adjacent to each other may be accommodated in the battery pack case 10 with the beams B interposed between the battery modules 20 adjacent to each other.

[0133] Fig.213 is a diagram showing a state in which the module-outer duct 320 is connected to only one of the adjacent battery modules 20. The module-outer duct 320 (having one duct 321 and another duct 322 inserted by sliding into the one duct 321 to shorten the entire length of the module-outer duct 320) may be connected to only one battery module 20.

[0134] Fig. 22 2 is a diagram showing a state where the module-outer pipe is connected to two adjacent battery modules 20 therebetween. One pipe 321 of the module-outer pipe 320 (whose entire length is extended from the outer pipe 321 by sliding the one pipe 321 toward the other battery module 20) Fig.21 The state shown is increased) can be connected to another battery module 20.

[0135] According to the above connection method, when manufacturing the battery pack 2, each battery module 20 can be preferentially stored in the battery pack case 10, and then the module outer pipe 320 with adjustable length can be connected to the battery module 20, rather than first connecting all the battery modules 20 and then storing them in the battery pack case 10, thereby ensuring ease and stability of assembly. In addition, the module outer pipe 320 can be located on the crossbeam B to support the module outer pipe 320 through the crossbeam B.

[0136] Fig.23 2 is a diagram showing a vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0137] refer to Fig.23 , the vehicle 1 according to the present disclosure may include a battery pack 2. The vehicle 1 may be a hybrid vehicle 1 or an electric vehicle 1. In addition to the battery pack 2, the vehicle 1 according to the present disclosure may further include various other elements included in the vehicle 1. For example, in addition to the battery pack 2 according to the present disclosure, the vehicle 1 according to the present disclosure may further include a body, a motor, and a control device such as an ECU (Electronic Control Unit).

[0138] As described above, although the present disclosure has been described based on the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that various and obvious modifications can be derived from this description without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure should be interpreted as including such variations according to the described claims.

Claims

1. A battery pack, comprising: a plurality of battery modules, the plurality of battery modules comprising a plurality of battery cells and cooling tubes configured to cool the plurality of battery cells; a battery pack housing providing an internal space to accommodate the plurality of battery modules therein; as well as A duct assembly is disposed inside the battery pack housing and is configured to connect the cooling pipes of the plurality of battery modules at one side.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The pipeline assembly comprises: an intra-module conduit configured to connect the cooling tubes within each battery module; and The module outer pipe is configured to connect adjacent cooling tubes between the plurality of battery modules.

3. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The plurality of battery modules include: The cooling pipe has at least a portion disposed between the plurality of battery cells in a longitudinal direction of the battery pack; and a plurality of side structural units configured to accommodate the cooling tube and the plurality of battery cells, and Wherein, the pipeline assembly is arranged on one side of the battery pack housing, and is located in the space between the inner wall of the battery pack housing and the plurality of side structural units.

4. The battery pack according to claim 2, in, The cooling pipe comprises: a main body disposed between the plurality of battery cells; and a protrusion connected to the main body and protruding from at least one end of the main body, and Wherein, the pipe assembly is configured to connect the protrusions of the plurality of battery modules on one side.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, in, The protrusion has a plurality of ports on both sides, and the plurality of ports are configured to be connected to the pipe assembly by being inserted into the pipe assembly.

6. The battery pack according to claim 5, in, The pipeline in the module includes: a duct body configured to form a passage in the interior space; and A coupling portion is provided at both sides of the pipe body and is configured to be coupled to the port.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, in, The coupling portion has a plurality of ribs protruding from an outer surface.

8. The battery pack according to claim 6, in, A first gap preventing member is provided between the port and the pipe assembly, and Wherein, the port has a first groove configured to accommodate the first gap prevention member.

9. The battery pack according to claim 2, in, The outer module pipe is configured so that its length is adjustable.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, in, The off-module pipe is configured as a plurality of pipe members coupled to be slidable relative to each other.

11. The battery pack according to claim 10, in, A second gap preventing member is provided between the plurality of pipe members, and wherein at least one of the plurality of pipe members coupled to each other has a second groove configured to accommodate the second gap prevention member.

12. The battery pack according to claim 4, in, The projection includes a cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion disposed in the interior space and communicating with the port, and Wherein, the main body includes a cooling channel disposed in the inner space and communicating with the cooling fluid inlet / outlet portion.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, in, The port includes: a first inlet and a second inlet, which are arranged at positions corresponding to each other on both sides of the protrusion; and a first outlet and a second outlet, which are arranged at positions corresponding to each other different from the positions of the inlets.

14. The battery pack according to claim 13, in, The cooling fluid inlet / outlet section comprises: a first inlet / outlet portion in communication with the first inlet and the second inlet; and a second inlet / outlet portion in communication with the first outlet and the second outlet, and wherein the cooling passage comprises: a first passage in communication with the first inlet / outlet portion; and A second passageway is in communication with the second inlet / outlet portion.

15. A vehicle comprising the battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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