Battery array

Abstract

A battery array is disclosed. A battery array according to one embodiment of the present invention is a battery array comprising a structure in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked in a vertical direction, the battery array comprising: a first heat sink having a plate shape; the battery cell unit is mounted on the upper surface of the first heat radiator; a first pillar coupled to an upper surface of the first heat sink and extending in a vertical direction; a second heat sink having a plate shape, located above the first pillar, and having a lower surface coupled to the first pillar; and a reinforcing member, which is located between the second heat sink and the battery cell unit, and supports the lower surface of the second heat sink.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery array.

[0002] This application is based on and claims the benefit of priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0068647 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on May 26, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] Existing commercially available secondary batteries include, for example, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium secondary batteries. Among commercially available secondary batteries, lithium secondary batteries have attracted attention due to their advantages (e.g., free charge and discharge due to a small memory effect, very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density) compared to nickel-based secondary batteries.

[0004] Recently, as issues such as power shortages and environmentally friendly energy have become more prominent, energy storage systems (ESS) for storing generated electricity are receiving more attention. For example, smart grid systems are proposed as one of the ways to control the supply and demand of electricity. The amount of electricity consumed by consumers is not always constant and sometimes fluctuates. A representative example is that in the summer, electricity consumption increases sharply in the afternoon due to the use of air conditioning units, and decreases sharply in the evening. In this way, in terms of power consumption, power consumption is not constant and may fluctuate frequently, but in terms of power supply, even if power production is controlled to a certain extent, it is actually difficult to match this power consumption. Therefore, this imbalance between power supply and consumption may lead to an oversupply of electricity or a shortage of power supply, and smart grid systems can flexibly store and control electricity to solve this problem. Conceptually, a smart grid system can be said to be a system that stores electricity at a point or area where surplus power is generated and supplies the stored electricity to a point or area where power shortage occurs. It can be said that one of the key components for building such a smart grid system is an energy storage system for storing electricity. In addition, with the in-depth development of the commercialization of electric vehicles in recent years, energy storage systems can be used in electric vehicle charging facilities (such as charging stations).

[0005] Such an energy storage system may include multiple battery arrays. Each battery array may be manufactured by stacking multiple battery array units. In addition, each battery array unit may also include multiple battery cell units. Summary of the invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] The present disclosure provides a battery array with improved assemblability.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a battery array with a simplified structure.

[0009] The present disclosure provides a battery array with increased energy density and improved cooling effects.

[0010] Technical Solution

[0011] In view of the foregoing, one aspect of the present disclosure provides a battery array, the battery array including a structure in which a plurality of battery cell units are stacked in a vertical direction. The battery array may include: a first heat sink having a plate shape; a battery cell unit mounted on a top surface of the first heat sink; a first column coupled to the top surface of the first heat sink and extending in a vertical direction; a second heat sink having a plate shape, located above the first column, and including a bottom surface coupled to the first column; and a reinforcing member located between the second heat sink and the battery cell unit and configured to support the bottom surface of the second heat sink.

[0012] In addition, the battery array may further include a second column coupled to a top surface of the second heat sink and extending in the vertical direction, and the reinforcing member and the second heat sink may be configured to be located between the first column and the second column.

[0013] In addition, the battery array may further include: a coupling pin, which penetrates the second heat sink and the reinforcing member and includes a lower portion that cooperates with the first column and an upper portion that cooperates with the second column.

[0014] In addition, the reinforcement member may be configured to extend along an edge of the second heat sink.

[0015] In addition, the battery cell unit includes a front battery cell unit and a rear battery cell unit arranged in the front-to-rear direction, and the first pillar may include: a front pillar located in front of the front battery cell unit; a rear pillar located behind the rear battery cell unit; and an intermediate pillar located between the front pillar and the rear pillar.

[0016] In addition, the reinforcement member may include a front reinforcement member extending in the left-right direction and including one end coupled to the front pillar.

[0017] In addition, the reinforcement member may include an intermediate reinforcement member extending in the left-right direction and including one end coupled to the intermediate pillar.

[0018] In addition, the reinforcing member may include a side reinforcing member extending in the front-rear direction and including one end coupled to the front pillar and the remaining end coupled to at least one of the middle pillar and the rear pillar.

[0019] In addition, the second heat sink may include: an upper plate having a flat plate shape; and a lower plate coupled to a bottom surface of the upper plate and including a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of the reinforcement member.

[0020] In addition, the second heat sink may be configured such that a cooling flow path is formed between the upper plate and the accommodation portion.

[0021] In addition, the reinforcing member may include: an elongated first portion; and a second portion, the second portion extending from the first portion and configured to be larger than the first portion, and the accommodating portion may be configured such that a portion accommodating the second portion is formed larger than a portion accommodating the first portion.

[0022] In addition, a plurality of reinforcing members are formed, and each of the plurality of reinforcing members may be configured to partially have a different size.

[0023] In addition, a battery array unit according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include: a first radiator, the first radiator having a plate shape; a battery cell unit, the battery cell unit being mounted on a top surface of the first radiator; a first column, the first column being connected to the top surface of the first radiator and extending in a vertical direction, wherein the first column includes an upper portion configured to be fastened to another component; and a reinforcing member, the reinforcing member being configured to support a bottom surface of the first radiator.

[0024] In addition, a battery container according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the battery array according to the present disclosure.

[0025] In addition, an energy storage system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the battery array according to the present disclosure.

[0026] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a battery array unit assembly may include: a radiator having a plate shape; a column connected to a top surface of the radiator and extending in a vertical direction; and a reinforcing member located below the radiator and configured to support a bottom surface of the radiator.

[0027] The reinforcement member may be an H-shaped bracket.

[0028] The top surface of the heat sink having the plate shape may be coated with a heat transfer material.

[0029] Beneficial Effects

[0030] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the energy density of a battery array is improved.

[0031] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the structural rigidity of a battery array is improved.

[0032] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the assemblability of a battery array is improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] The following drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and are used to further understand the technical concept of the present disclosure and the detailed description of the present disclosure to be described later. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be interpreted as being limited to the contents shown in the drawings.

[0034] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 2 is a partially exploded perspective view of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 3 is a view showing a heat sink separated from a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 4 is a view showing a cooling medium flowing through a radiator of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 5 is a bottom perspective view of a heat sink of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 6 and Figure 7 is a view showing how a reinforcement member is coupled to a heat sink of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 8 is a view showing how a coupling pin is coupled to a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Fig. 9 is a view showing a heat sink and a coupling pin of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Fig.10 is a view showing a heat sink and a column of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Fig.11 are views showing a radiator, a column, and a battery cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Fig.12 are views showing a heat sink, a column, a battery cell unit, and a cover of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Fig.13 is a view showing a radiator, a column, a battery cell unit, a cover, and a battery management system (BMS) of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Fig.14 is a view showing stacking of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Fig.15 is a view showing a heat sink and a reinforcement member of a battery array according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Fig.16 is a view showing a heat sink and a reinforcement member of a battery array according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Fig.17 is shown along Fig. 9 A view of an embodiment of a configuration cut along the cutting line EE'.

[0050] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 Enlarged views of parts F, G and H.

[0051] Fig.19 It is shown Fig.17 Views of variations of parts F, G and H.

[0052] Fig. 20 is shown along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the configuration cut along the cutting line AA' in FIG.

[0053] Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 Magnified view of part B in FIG.

[0054] Fig. 22 yes Fig. 20 Magnified view of portion C in FIG.

[0055] Fig.23 yes Fig. 20 An enlarged view of portion D in FIG.

[0056] Fig.24 2 is a view showing a battery array and a case according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Fig.25 is a view showing how a battery array and a case are coupled to each other according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] In the several views of the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. For simplicity and clarity, the referenced drawings are shown, which are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve the understanding of the various embodiments. Moreover, common but well-known elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are generally not depicted to facilitate a clearer view of these different embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Prior to this, the terms and words used in the specification and claims should not be interpreted as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as meanings and concepts consistent with the technical concept of the present disclosure based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the term in order to explain his invention in the best way.

[0060] Therefore, it should be understood that since the embodiments described herein and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are merely exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and do not represent all technical concepts of the present disclosure, various equivalents and modifications that replace these embodiments may exist when submitting this application. Moreover, throughout this document, references to directions and orientations (such as upward, downward, upper, lower, up, down, top, bottom, inward, outward, lateral, front, rear, etc.) are also made. These references are exemplary and are used to describe and explain the present disclosure and its embodiments, and are not limited in any way.

[0061] The battery array constituting the energy storage system is composed of a plurality of stacked battery array units. As the energy demand in the energy storage system increases, it is necessary to improve the battery array structure with highly limited space. For example, the present disclosure provides a battery array structure in which a plurality of battery cell units can be stacked.

[0062] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Figure 2 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 and Figure 2, the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a structure in which a plurality of battery array units 10 are stacked in a vertical direction. The battery array units 10 as the unit structure constituting the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may each include, for example, a heat sink 100, a battery cell unit 200, a coupling pin 300, a column 400, a cover 500, a battery management system (BMS) 600, a battery array housing 700, and a reinforcing member 800. Meanwhile, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the basic structure of the battery array unit 10 for accommodating the battery cell unit 200 may include, for example, a first heat sink 100, a first column, and a reinforcing member 800.

[0064] For convenience, when it is necessary to distinguish between the upper and lower battery array units of two battery array units 10 stacked in the vertical direction, the battery array unit 10 located at the bottom will be referred to as the first battery array unit 10, and the battery array unit 10 located at the top will be referred to as the second battery array unit 10. In addition, when necessary, the basic components constituting the first battery array unit 10 may be referred to as, for example, the first heat sink 100, the first battery cell unit 200, the first coupling pin 300, and the first column 400. In addition, the components of the second battery array unit 10 stacked with the first battery array unit 10 may also be referred to as, for example, the second heat sink 100, the second battery cell unit 200, the second coupling pin 300, and the second column 400. When it is not necessary to distinguish between the upper and lower battery array units, the components will be referred to as, for example, the heat sink 100, the battery cell unit 200, the coupling pin 300, and the column 400 without distinction.

[0065] Among the basic components of the battery array unit 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a reinforcing member 800 may be located at the bottom, a heat sink 100 may be disposed on the reinforcing member 800, a battery cell unit 200 may be disposed on the heat sink 100, and a plurality of columns 400 may be placed, coupled, fixed, fastened or attached to the top surface of the heat sink 100. In addition, the column 400 may be configured to extend in a vertical direction or a Z-axis direction. With this configuration, since the reinforcing member 800 can bear the load of the heat sink 100 and the battery cell unit 200, bending or sagging can be prevented. In addition, a desired number of battery array units 10 configured as described above may be stacked on or below another similarly configured battery array unit 10 to form a battery array 1000. In addition, the top surface of the heat sink 100 is coated with a heat transfer material (e.g., a resin having improved thermal conductivity) to facilitate heat conduction from the battery cell unit 200 to the heat sink 100. Hereinafter, the structure of the battery array 1000 will be described in more detail.

[0066] The first heat sink 100 constituting the first battery array unit 10 may have a plate shape. In addition, the first battery cell unit 200 may be placed, connected, fixed, fastened or attached to the top surface of the first heat sink 100. The first battery cell unit 200 may include at least one battery cell. In this case, the battery cell may refer to a secondary battery, also referred to as a rechargeable battery. For example, the battery cell may be a pouch-shaped secondary battery. The first heat sink 100 of the first battery array unit 10 may be configured to dissipate heat generated from the first battery cell unit 200 to the outside. A plurality of first battery cell units 200 may be provided.

[0067] The first column 400 of the first battery array unit 10 may be seated, coupled, fixed, fastened, or attached to the top surface of the first heat sink 100. In addition, the first column 400 may be configured to extend in a vertical direction or a Z-axis direction.

[0068] The second heat sink 100 of the second battery array unit 10 stacked on the first battery array unit 10 may have a plate shape, and may include a bottom surface located on the first column 400 of the first battery array unit 10 and placed, coupled, fixed, fastened or attached to the first column 400. The second heat sink 100 may have substantially the same structure or components as the first heat sink 100.

[0069] Meanwhile, the second reinforcement member 800 of the second battery array unit 10 may be located between the second radiator 100 and the first battery cell unit 200 of the first battery array unit 10 located therebelow, and may be configured to support the bottom surface of the second radiator 100. A plurality of reinforcement members 800 may be provided for each radiator 100 or each battery array unit 10 constituting the battery array. In the first battery array unit 10, the first reinforcement member 800 may be fastened, coupled, fixed or attached to the bottom surface of the first radiator 100.

[0070] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the battery array can be easily stacked. The radiator 100 of each battery array unit 10 can be used as a base plate, and the battery cell unit 200 of the corresponding battery array unit 10 is connected to the base plate, so that the stacking configuration can be simplified. In addition, the first column 400 can support the load of the battery array 1000 by connecting and coupling the second radiator 100 to the first radiator 100. This makes it possible to simplify the stacking configuration. Therefore, the energy density of the battery array 1000 in the vertical direction can be improved.

[0071] In addition, according to the configuration of the present disclosure, the heat sink 100 can be prevented from being bent or sagging when forming the battery array 1000. In each battery array unit 10, the heat sink 100 can receive a load from the battery cell unit 200 disposed on the top surface thereof, but since the reinforcing member 800 supports the heat sink 100, the heat sink 100 can be prevented from being bent or sagging even when the heat sink 100 receives the load.

[0072] Return to reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be formed by stacking a plurality of battery array units 10 in a vertical direction. In this case, the battery array unit 10 on the lower side is defined as a reference, and the battery array unit 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a first heat sink 100 having a plate shape; a battery cell unit 200 disposed on the top surface of the first heat sink 100; a first column 400 coupled to the top surface of the first heat sink 100 and extending in the vertical direction, wherein each of the first columns includes an upper portion configured to be fastened to another component; and a first reinforcing member 800 configured to support the bottom surface of the heat sink 100. In this case, another component that may be fastened to the first column 400 may be another battery array unit 10 or a heat sink 100 of another battery unit 10.

[0073] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plurality of battery array units 10 having substantially the same structure or configuration. Therefore, a battery array may be produced by stacking, assembling, fastening or coupling a plurality of fully assembled battery array units 10 in a vertical direction. Thus, the productivity and energy density of the battery array may be improved.

[0074] In addition, according to the configuration of the present disclosure, the heat sink 100 may be prevented from being bent or sagging.

[0075] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second battery cell unit 200 mounted on a top surface of the second heat sink 100. The second battery cell unit 200 may have substantially the same configuration or structure as the first battery cell unit 200.

[0076] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can be manufactured by stacking the battery array units 10 having the same structure or configuration. Therefore, the productivity and energy density of the battery array 1000 can be improved compared to the conventional battery array.

[0077] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2, the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second column 400 coupled to the top surface of the second heat sink 100 and extending in a vertical direction. The second column 400 may have substantially the same configuration or structure as the first column 400.

[0078] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can be configured by stacking the battery array units 10 having the same structure or configuration. Therefore, the productivity and energy density of the battery array 1000 can be improved compared to the conventional battery array.

[0079] Return to reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the second column 400 of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to be located in the direction along which the first column 400 extends.

[0080] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the second column 400 can transfer the load placed on the second heat sink 100 to the first column 400. Thus, the load of the battery array 1000 can be stably supported.

[0081] Figure 3 is a view showing the heat sink 100 separated from the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 2 is a view showing the cooling medium CM flowing through the heat sink 100 of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Return to Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the heat sink 100 of the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an upper plate 110 having a flat plate shape and a lower plate 120 coupled to the upper plate 110 below the upper plate 110. The lower plate 120 includes a coupling portion 121 and a protrusion 122 bent downward from the coupling portion 121. In addition, the heat sink 100 may be configured such that a cooling flow path is formed between the upper plate 110 and the protrusion 122 of the lower plate 120. According to one embodiment, the protrusion 122 may be formed into a downwardly bent structure by partially pressing the lower plate 120 into a predetermined shape, for example, by a stamping operation.

[0082] The upper plate 110 may have a square plate shape. The upper plate 110 may be configured in a flat plate shape.

[0083] The lower plate 120 may have a square plate shape. The lower plate 120 may be coupled, attached, fastened, welded or fixed to the bottom surface of the upper plate 110. The coupling portion 121 of the lower plate 120 may have a flat plate shape. By coupling, attaching and welding the upper plate 110 and the lower plate 120 to each other, the protrusion 122 may form a cooling flow path.

[0084] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the heat of the battery cell unit 200 can be cooled by means of the heat sink 100. By providing the heat sink 100 for each battery array unit 10, the battery array can be effectively cooled.

[0085] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cooling flow path of the battery array 1000 may include: a plurality of first flow paths 124, which are connected to the inlet port 111 and separated in the front-to-rear direction; a plurality of second flow paths 125, which are connected to the outlet port 112 and separated in the front-to-rear direction; and a third flow path 126, which allows the plurality of first flow paths 124 and the plurality of second flow paths 125 to be connected to each other.

[0086] The upper plate 110 may include an inlet port 111 and an outlet port 112 at the front side of the top surface. The cooling medium CM may flow into the radiator 100 via the inlet port 111 of the upper plate 110, may flow through the first flow path 124, the third flow path 126, and the second flow path 125 in sequence, and then may flow out to the outside of the radiator 100 via the outlet port 112.

[0087] In this case, the first flow path 124 and the second flow path 125 may be configured as a plurality of parallel flow paths. The plurality of parallel flow paths may be configured to be parallel to each other.

[0088] The battery array 1000 of the present disclosure may include a relatively thin heat sink 100 to achieve high energy density. Therefore, the height of the flow path of the heat sink 100 may be low. According to one embodiment, the total thickness of the heat sink 100 may be approximately 7.5 mm.

[0089] Therefore, according to the configuration of the present disclosure, the first flow path 124 and the second flow path 125 can be configured with multiple flow paths so that the pressure of the cooling medium CM flowing through the radiator 100 can be distributed. As a result, the battery array 1000 can be maintained in a stable state.

[0090] In addition, according to the configuration of the present disclosure, the protrusions 122 of the heat sink 100 can be separated to form a plurality of flow paths in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. Therefore, the rigidity of the heat sink 100 can be improved and the stability of the battery array 1000 can be improved compared to the conventional battery array.

[0091] Figure 5 is a bottom perspective view showing a heat sink 100 of a battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 and Figure 7 is a view showing how the reinforcement member 800 is coupled to the heat sink 100 of the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 5 to 7, the lower plate 120 of the heat sink 100 of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a receiving portion 123 .

[0092] The receiving portion 123 may be formed by a protrusion 122 that is at least partially bent or protruded upward. In addition, the reinforcing member 800 may be configured to be at least partially accommodated in the receiving portion 123. The protruding height or bending height of the receiving portion 123 may be equal to or greater than the thickness of the reinforcing member 800. For example, the receiving portion 123 may be longitudinally elongated along the Y-axis direction, the front edge of the lower plate 120, or the rear edge of the lower plate 120. A plurality of receiving portions 123 corresponding to the number of reinforcing members 800 may be provided.

[0093] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, even when the reinforcing member 800 supports the heat sink 100, it is possible to prevent the height of the battery array 1000 or the battery array unit 10 from increasing. Thus, the energy density of the battery array 1000 can be increased.

[0094] refer to Figures 3 to 7 The second heat sink 100 of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured such that a cooling flow path is formed between the upper plate 110 and the receiving portion 123. The cooling medium CM may flow between the protrusion 122 and the upper plate 110 and between the receiving portion 123 and the upper plate 110.

[0095] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, it is possible to effectively cool the heat generated from the battery cell unit 200 while increasing the energy density of the battery array 1000 .

[0096] refer to Figures 5 to 7 , the reinforcing members 800 of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may each be configured to extend along the edge of the second heat sink 100. The reinforcing members 800 (810, 820 (821, 822), 830) may extend in the Y-axis direction along the front edge of the heat sink 100 or the rear edge of the heat sink 100. In addition, the reinforcing member 800 (840) may extend in the X-axis direction or along the side edge of the heat sink 100.

[0097] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, a plurality of reinforcing members 800 are provided, making it possible to stably support the heat sink 100. This makes it possible to improve the structural stability of the battery array 1000.

[0098] Figure 8 is a view showing how the coupling pin 300 is coupled to the reinforcement member 800 of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 2 is a view showing a heat sink 100 and a coupling pin 300 of a battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.101 is a view showing a heat sink 100 and a column 400 of a battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.11 is a view showing a heat sink 100, a column 400, and a battery cell unit 200 of a battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 8 to 11 , the first battery cell unit 200 of the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a front battery cell unit 210 and a rear battery cell unit 220 arranged in a front-to-rear direction.

[0099] The front battery cell unit 210 and the rear battery cell unit 220 may be individually fastened, fixed, coupled, or attached to the heat sink 100. In addition, the front battery cell unit 210 may be configured as a pair.

[0100] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the battery array unit 10 includes a plurality of battery cell units 210 and 220, and thus, the energy storage capacity and output may be improved compared to conventional battery array units.

[0101] refer to Figures 8 to 11 , a pair of front battery cell units 210 of the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be arranged in the left-right direction. In addition, the rear battery cell units 220 may be configured as a pair. A pair of rear battery cell units 220 may be arranged in the left-right direction.

[0102] In this case, the pair of front battery cell units 210 may include different numbers of battery cells, respectively. To this end, the widths of the pair of front battery cell units 210 in the left and right directions may be configured to be different from each other. For example, the pair of front battery cell units 210 may include 19 battery cells and 21 battery cells, respectively.

[0103] In addition, a pair of rear battery cell units 220 may include different numbers of battery cells, respectively. To this end, the widths of a pair of rear battery cell units 220 in the left and right directions may be configured to be different from each other. For example, a pair of rear battery cell units 220 may include 19 battery cells and 21 battery cells, respectively.

[0104] In addition, the front battery cell unit 210 and the rear battery cell unit 220 facing each other in the front-to-back direction may include different numbers of battery cells. For example, the front battery cell unit 210-1 including 19 battery cells may face the rear battery cell unit 220-2 including 21 battery cells. In addition, the front battery cell unit 210-2 including 21 battery cells may face the rear battery cell unit 220-2 including 19 battery cells.

[0105] In addition, according to the configuration of the present disclosure, it is possible to distribute the pressure and torque applied to the heat sink 100. In addition, it is possible to facilitate the arrangement of wires connecting the plurality of battery cell units 210 and 220.

[0106] refer to Figures 8 to 11 , the first column 400 of the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a middle column located between the front battery cell unit 210 and the rear battery cell unit 220 .

[0107] The middle column 420 may be configured as a pair. The pair of middle columns 420 may be arranged in the left-right direction. The middle column 420 may contact the rear surface of the front battery cell unit 210 or the front surface of the rear battery cell unit 220.

[0108] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the middle column 420 can prevent the central portion of the heat sink 100 from sagging. Therefore, the structural rigidity and stability of the battery array 1000 can be improved compared to conventional battery arrays.

[0109] refer to Figures 8 to 11 , the first pillar 400 of the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a front pillar 410 located in front of the front battery cell unit 210 and a rear pillar 430 located behind the battery cell unit 220 .

[0110] The front pillars 410 may be configured as a pair. The pair of front pillars 410 may be arranged in the left-right direction. The front pillars 410 may contact the front surface of the front battery cell unit 210 .

[0111] The rear pillars 430 may be configured as a pair. The pair of rear pillars 430 may be arranged in the left-right direction. The rear pillars 430 may contact the rear surface of the rear battery cell unit 220.

[0112] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the radiator 100 can be prevented from sagging by means of the front pillars 410 and the rear pillars 430. In addition, the load applied to the radiator 100 can be appropriately distributed by means of the front pillars 410 and the rear pillars 430. Therefore, the structural rigidity and stability of the battery array 1000 can be improved compared to the conventional battery array.

[0113] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the coupling pin 300 may be easily assembled, coupled, fastened, or fixed to the column 400. Therefore, assemblability of the battery array 1000 may be improved compared to a conventional battery array.

[0114] refer to Figures 8 to 11The reinforcement member 800 of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a front reinforcement member 810 extending in the left-right direction and having one end coupled to the front pillar 410. The front reinforcement member 810 may extend, for example, along the front edge of the radiator 100. Opposite ends of the front reinforcement member 810 may be fastened, coupled, or fixed to the pair of front pillars 410, respectively.

[0115] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the front side of the heat sink 100 may be stably supported by the front reinforcement member 810 .

[0116] refer to Figures 8 to 11 , the reinforcement member of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include an intermediate reinforcement member 820 extending in the left-right direction and having one end coupled to the intermediate column 420. The intermediate reinforcement member 820 may extend in the central portion of the radiator 100 to be parallel to the front edge or the rear edge of the radiator 100. Opposite ends of the first intermediate reinforcement member 821 may be fastened, coupled or fixed to a pair of intermediate columns 420, respectively. Opposite ends of the second intermediate reinforcement member 822 may be fastened, coupled or fixed to the radiator 100, respectively.

[0117] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the central portion of the heat sink 100 may be stably supported by the intermediate reinforcement member 820 .

[0118] refer to Figures 8 to 11 The reinforcement member 800 of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a rear reinforcement member 830 extending in the left-right direction and having one end coupled to the rear pillar 430. The rear reinforcement member 830 may extend, for example, along the rear edge of the radiator 100. Opposite ends of the rear reinforcement member 830 may be fastened, coupled, or fixed to the pair of rear pillars 430, respectively.

[0119] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the rear side of the heat sink 100 may be supported by the rear reinforcement member 830 .

[0120] refer to Figures 8 to 11 , the reinforcement member 800 of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a side reinforcement member 840, wherein the side reinforcement member extends in the front-rear direction and has one end coupled to the front pillar 410 and the other end coupled to at least one of the middle pillar 420 and the rear pillar 430. The side reinforcement member 840 may extend along the side edge of the radiator 100. The side reinforcement members 840 may be fastened, coupled or fixed to at least two of the front pillar 410, the middle pillar 420 and the rear pillar 430, respectively.

[0121] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the side region of the heat sink 100 may be stably supported by the side reinforcing member 840 .

[0122] refer to Figures 8 to 11 The battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include coupling pins 300 , each of which penetrates the second heat sink 100 and the reinforcing member 800 and includes a lower portion fitted to the first column 400 and an upper portion fitted to the second column 400 .

[0123] The coupling pin 300 may be provided, fitted, coupled, fastened, fixed, or attached to each column 400. The coupling pin 300 may be partially fitted, coupled, or fastened to the column 400, respectively, and the remaining portion may be exposed to the upper side of the column 400. For example, the coupling pin 300 may be assembled, coupled, fastened, or fixed to the column 400 in a forced-fit manner.

[0124] The coupling pin 300 may sequentially pass through or penetrate the front reinforcement member 810, the side reinforcement member 840, and the radiator 100. In addition, the coupling pin 300 may sequentially pass through or penetrate the middle reinforcement member 821, the side reinforcement member 840, and the radiator 100. In addition, the coupling pin 300 may sequentially pass through or penetrate the rear reinforcement member 830, the side reinforcement member 840, and the radiator 100.

[0125] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the coupling pin 300 may be coupled, fastened or fixed to the reinforcing member 800, the column 400 and the heat sink 100. Thus, the assemblability and productivity of the battery array 1000 may be improved.

[0126] Fig.12 is a view showing a heat sink 100, a column 400, a battery cell unit 200, and a cover 500 of a battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.12 , the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cover 500 disposed between the first battery cell unit 200 and the second heat sink 100 disposed on the top of the first battery cell unit 200 .

[0127] The cover 500 may also be referred to as an insulating cover 500. The insulating cover 500 may have an electrical insulating property. The insulating cover 500 may cover the front surface of the front battery cell unit 210. In addition, the insulating cover 500 may cover the top surface of the front battery cell unit 210 and the top surface of the rear battery cell unit 220. In addition, the insulating cover 500 may cover the rear surface of the rear battery cell unit 220. The insulating cover 500 may electrically insulate the upper and lower battery array units 10 vertically adjacent to each other. The insulating cover 500 may be provided for each battery array unit 10.

[0128] The pillar 400 may include a coating layer having electrical insulation properties. Alternatively, the pillar 400 may be covered with a film having electrical insulation properties.

[0129] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the electrical safety of the battery array 1000 can be improved compared to conventional battery arrays.

[0130] Fig.13 1 is a view showing a heat sink 100, a column 400, a battery cell unit 200, a cover 500, a battery management system 600, and a reinforcement member 800 of a battery array unit 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.13 , the first column 400 of the battery array unit 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a pair of front columns 410 located in front of the front battery cell unit 210 and a battery management system (BMS) 600 located between the pair of front columns 410 and electrically connected to the front battery cell unit 210. The BMS 600 may be configured to control the charge and discharge of the battery cell unit 200. The BMS 600 may be provided for each battery array unit 10. In addition, the respective BMSs 600 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0131] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, space efficiency may be improved due to the BMS 600 between the pair of front pillars 410. Therefore, energy density of the battery array 1000 may be improved compared to a conventional battery array.

[0132] Fig.14 is a view for explaining the stacking of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery array 1000 may further include a second column connected to the top surface of the second radiator 100 of the second battery array unit 10 and extending in the vertical direction, and the reinforcing member 800 and the second radiator 100 may be configured to be located between the first column 400 and the second column 400.

[0133] The battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a coupling pin 300 penetrating the second heat sink 100 and including a lower portion mated with the first column 400 and an upper portion mated with the second column 400 , respectively.

[0134] The reinforcing member 800 and the heat sink 100 of the battery array 1000 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be fastened, coupled, fixed or fitted to the coupling pin 300. The coupling pin 300 may penetrate or pass through the coupling portion 121 between the upper plate 110 and the lower plate 120 vertically adjacent to each other of the heat sink 100 of the battery array unit 10. The coupling pin 300 may sequentially penetrate or pass through the coupling holes 101 in the upper plate 110 (see, e.g., Figure 3 ) and the coupling hole 127 in the lower plate 120 (see Figure 3 ).

[0135] The coupling pin 300 may be provided, fitted, coupled, fastened, fixed, or attached to each column 400. The coupling pin 300 may be partially fitted, coupled, or fastened to the column 400, and the remaining portion thereof may be exposed to the upper side of the column 400.

[0136] For example, the coupling pin 300 may be assembled, coupled, fastened, or fixed to the column 400 in an interference fit manner.

[0137] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the coupling pin 300 may be easily assembled, coupled, fastened, or fixed to the column 400. Therefore, assemblability of the battery array 1000 may be improved compared to a conventional battery array.

[0138] Fig.15 is a view showing a heat sink 100 and a reinforcing member 800 of a battery array 1000 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.15 , the first intermediate reinforcement member 821a of the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a first portion 821b that extends long; and a second portion 821c that extends from the first portion 821b and is configured to be larger than the first portion 821b. The accommodating portion 123 is configured so that the portion that accommodates the second portion 821c is larger than the portion that accommodates the first portion 821b. The central portion of the first intermediate reinforcement member 821a may have a greater width than other portions. The central portion having a larger width may be the second portion 821c, and the remaining portion may be the first portion 821b. The portion 123a that accommodates the second portion 821c may be configured to have a greater width than other portions of the accommodating portion 123.

[0139] The central portion of the heat sink 100 may bend or sag more than other portions.

[0140] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the central portion of the heat sink 100 may be more stably supported by the reinforcing member 821 a .

[0141] Fig.16 is a view showing a heat sink 100 and a reinforcing member 800 of a battery array according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.16 , a plurality of reinforcing members 800 of a battery array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided, wherein each reinforcing member may be configured to partially have different sizes.

[0142] The central portion of each second intermediate reinforcement member 822a may have a plurality of portions having a width greater than that of other portions. The side portion having a greater width may be the second portion 822c, and the remaining portion may be the first portion 822b. The portion 123a that accommodates the second portion 822c may be configured to have a greater width than another portion of the accommodating portion 123.

[0143] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, it is possible to minimize or prevent the flow path of the cooling medium CM flowing between the upper plate 110 and the accommodation portions 123 and 123 a from being narrowed while more firmly supporting the heat sink 100 .

[0144] Fig.17 is shown along Fig. 9 A view of a variation of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the cutting line EE' in FIG. Fig.18 yes Fig.17 Enlarged views of parts F, G and H. Fig.19 It is shown Fig.17 A view of a variation of parts F, G and H. Figures 17 to 19 In the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of reinforcing members 800 may be provided, wherein each reinforcing member 800 may be configured to have a different thickness locally. For example, the first intermediate reinforcing member 821 may have a central portion G having a greater thickness than other portions. The central portion G having a greater thickness may be the second portion 821e, and the remaining portion may be the first portion 821d. The portion 123b that accommodates the second portion 821e may be configured to have a height h4 that is lower than a height h3 of other portions of the accommodating portion 123. In addition, other reinforcing members 800 may have a similar structure.

[0145] A central portion of the heat sink 100 according to one embodiment may bend or sag more than other portions according to circumstances.

[0146] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the central portion of the heat sink 100 may be more stably supported by the reinforcing member 821 .

[0147] refer to Figures 17 to 19 According to the embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of reinforcing members 800 may be provided in the battery array 1000 , wherein each reinforcing member 800 may be configured to have a different thickness locally.

[0148] The first intermediate reinforcing member 821 may have side portions F and H having a greater thickness than other portions. The side portions F and H having a greater thickness may be the second portion 822e, and the remaining portion may be the first portion 822d. The portion 123b accommodating the second portion 821e may be configured to have a height h4 lower than the height h3 of the other portions of the accommodating portion 123. In addition, other reinforcing members 800 may have a similar structure.

[0149] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, it is possible to minimize or prevent the flow path of the cooling medium CM flowing between the upper plate 110 and the accommodation portions 123 and 123 b from being narrowed while more firmly supporting the heat sink 100 .

[0150] Fig. 20 is shown along Figure 1 A view of a portion of the cross-sectional configuration cut along the cutting line AA'. Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 Magnified view of part B in FIG. Fig. 22 yes Fig. 20 Magnified view of portion C in FIG. Fig.23 yes Fig. 20 Magnified view of section D in . Figure 20 to Figure 23 , the first columns 410 b , 420 b , and 430 b of the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to have a height h1 greater than a height h2 of the first battery cell units 210 b and 220 b .

[0151] The height h2 of the first columns 410b, 420b, and 430b may correspond to the distance from the top surface of the radiator 100b to the bottom surface of the radiator 100c adjacent to the radiator 100b. In addition, the battery cell units 210b and 220b and the insulating cover 500b may be disposed between the adjacent radiators 100b and 100c. In addition, the protrusion 122 may be located above the insulating cover 500b. Therefore, the height h1 of the first columns 410b, 420b, and 430b may be formed to be higher than the height h2 of the first battery cell units 210b and 220b.

[0152] According to the configuration of the present disclosure, the battery cell units 210 b and 220 b and the insulation cover 500 b may be stably disposed between the heat sinks 100 b and 100 c .

[0153] refer to Fig. 20 and Fig.21 , the coupling pin 300b can penetrate the reinforcing member 810, the side reinforcing member 840 and the radiator 100b. In addition, the lower portion of the coupling pin 300b can be matched, coupled, fixed or fastened to the front pillar 410a, and the upper portion of the coupling pin 300b can be matched, coupled, fixed or fastened to the front pillar 410b.

[0154] The coupling pin 300c may penetrate the front reinforcement member 810, the side reinforcement member 840, and the radiator 100c. In addition, the lower portion of the coupling pin 300c may be matched, coupled, fixed, or fastened to the front pillar 410b, and the upper portion of the coupling pin 300c may be matched, coupled, fixed, or fastened to the front pillar 410c. The front battery cell units 210a, 210b, and 210c may be stacked sequentially in the vertical direction.

[0155] refer to Fig. 20 and Fig. 22 , the lower portion of the coupling pin 300b may be matched, coupled, fixed or fastened to the middle column 420a, and the upper portion of the coupling pin 300b may be matched, coupled, fixed or fastened to the middle column 420b. The coupling pin 300b may penetrate the middle reinforcement member 821, the side reinforcement member 840 and the radiator 100b. In addition, the lower portion of the coupling pin 300c may be matched, coupled, fixed or fastened to the middle column 420b, and the upper portion of the coupling pin 300c may be matched, coupled, fixed or fastened to the middle column 420c. The coupling pin 300c may penetrate the middle reinforcement member 821, the side reinforcement member 840 and the radiator 100c.

[0156] refer to Fig. 20 and Fig.23 , the lower portion of the coupling pin 300b may be matched, coupled, fixed or fastened to the rear pillar 430a, and the upper portion of the coupling pin 300b may be matched, coupled, fixed or fastened to the rear pillar 430b. The coupling pin 300b may penetrate the rear reinforcement member 830, the side reinforcement member 840 and the radiator 100b. In addition, the lower portion of the coupling pin 300c may be matched, coupled, fixed or fastened to the rear pillar 430b, and the upper portion of the coupling pin 300c may be matched, coupled, fixed or fastened to the rear pillar 430c. The coupling pin 300c may penetrate the rear reinforcement member 830, the side reinforcement member 840 and the radiator 100c.

[0157] Fig.24 2 is a view showing a battery array 1000 and a housing 700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.25 is a view showing how the battery array 1000 and the housing 700 are coupled to each other according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.24 and Fig.25, the battery array 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be coupled, fastened or assembled to the housing 700. The housing 700 may include a bottom plate 710 covering the bottom surface of the battery array 1000. The housing 700 may include side plates 720 covering the left and right sides of the battery array 1000. The housing 700 may include a top plate 730 covering the top surface of the battery array 1000. The housing 700 may include a front plate 740 covering the front surface of the battery array 1000. The housing 700 may include a rear plate 750 covering the rear surface of the battery array 1000. According to one embodiment, the plates 710, 720, 730, 740 and 750 constituting the housing 700 may be coupled to each other by welding.

[0158] In addition, a pad 760 may be provided on the bottom surface of the bottom plate 710. The pad 760 may extend in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. A pair of pads 760 may be provided, which may be arranged at the side edge of the bottom surface of the bottom plate 710.

[0159] The battery container according to the present disclosure may include the battery array 1000 according to the present disclosure. A plurality of battery arrays 1000 may be provided. The battery container may include a container housing. The container housing may provide a housing space configured to accommodate the battery array. In addition, the battery container may include a controller configured to control the plurality of battery arrays. In addition, the battery container may be configured to further include a sensor configured to detect the state of the battery array 1000 or a fire extinguishing module configured to control a thermal event.

[0160] An energy storage system (ESS) according to the present disclosure may include a battery array 1000 according to the present disclosure. The energy storage system may include a plurality of battery containers. In addition, the battery container may include a plurality of battery arrays 1000. The energy storage system may provide a combination of a predetermined number of battery containers and a control container to a link group. As an example, the control container may perform overall control or diagnosis of the battery container. In addition, the control container may include a DC component, an AC component, and a BSC component to control the battery container. At the same time, each control container may be connected to a PCS.

[0161] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described using the drawings, the present disclosure is not limited by the embodiments. Various embodiments can be implemented by ordinary technicians in the field to which the present disclosure belongs within the scope of the technical concept equivalent to the present disclosure and the claims set forth below. Therefore, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the description herein, but should be defined with reference to the claims.

Claims

1. A battery array, the battery array having a structure in which a plurality of battery array units are stacked in a vertical direction, the battery array comprising: a first heat sink having a plate shape; a battery cell unit mounted on a top surface of the first heat sink; a first column coupled to the top surface of the first heat sink and extending in the vertical direction; a second heat sink having a plate shape, located above the first column, and including a bottom surface coupled to the first column; as well as A reinforcing member is located between the second heat sink and the battery cell unit and is configured to support the bottom surface of the second heat sink.

2. The battery array according to claim 1, further comprising: a second column coupled to a top surface of the second heat sink and extending in the vertical direction, Wherein, the reinforcing member and the second heat sink are configured to be located between the first column and the second column.

3. The battery array according to claim 2, further comprising: A coupling pin penetrates the second heat sink and the reinforcing member and includes a lower portion engaged with the first column and an upper portion engaged with the second column.

4. The battery array according to claim 1, wherein: The reinforcement member is configured to extend along an edge of the second heat sink.

5. The battery array according to claim 1, wherein: The battery cell unit includes a front battery cell unit and a rear battery cell unit arranged in a front-to-rear direction, and Wherein, the first column comprises: a front pillar located in front of the front battery cell unit; a rear pillar located behind the rear battery cell unit; and An intermediate column is located between the front column and the rear column.

6. The battery array according to claim 5, wherein: The reinforcement member includes a front reinforcement member extending in the left-right direction and including one end coupled to the front pillar.

7. The battery array according to claim 5, wherein: The reinforcement member includes an intermediate reinforcement member extending in the left-right direction and including one end coupled to the intermediate pillar.

8. The battery array according to claim 5, wherein: The reinforcing member includes a side reinforcing member extending in the front-rear direction and including one end coupled to the front pillar and the remaining end coupled to at least one of the middle pillar and the rear pillar.

9. The battery array according to claim 1, wherein: The second radiator comprises: an upper plate having a flat plate shape; and A lower plate is coupled to a bottom surface of the upper plate and includes a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of the reinforcement member.

10. The battery array according to claim 9, wherein: The second heat sink is configured such that a cooling flow path is formed between the upper plate and the accommodation portion.

11. The battery array according to claim 9, wherein: The reinforcing member comprises: an elongated first portion; and a second portion extending from the first portion and configured to be larger than the first portion, The accommodating portion is configured such that a portion accommodating the second portion is formed larger than a portion accommodating the first portion.

12. The battery array according to claim 9, wherein: A plurality of reinforcing members are provided, and Each of the plurality of reinforcing members is configured to partially have a different size.

13. A battery array unit, comprising: a first heat sink having a plate shape; a battery cell unit mounted on a top surface of the first heat sink; a first post coupled to a top surface of the first heat sink and extending in a vertical direction, wherein the first post includes an upper portion configured to be fastened to another component; as well as A reinforcing member is configured to support a bottom surface of the first heat sink. 14 . A battery container, comprising the battery array according to claim 1 .

15. An energy storage system, comprising the battery array according to claim 1.

16. A battery array unit assembly, the battery array unit assembly comprising: a heat sink having a plate shape; a post coupled to a top surface of the heat sink and extending in a vertical direction; as well as A reinforcing member is located below the heat sink and is configured to support a bottom surface of the heat sink.

17. The battery array unit assembly according to claim 16, wherein: The reinforcing member is an H-shaped bracket.

18. The battery array unit assembly according to claim 16, wherein: The top surface of the heat sink having the plate shape is coated with a heat transfer material.

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