Connector module and battery module including same

Abstract

A connector module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a first connector including a first connector housing and a first conductive portion coupled to the first connector housing; and a second connector coupled to the first connector, in which the second connector may include: a second connector housing including a frame inserted into the first connector and coupled to the first connector, and a coupling portion coupled to the frame, a coupling portion connected to one surface of the frame and coupled to the first connector; a second conductive portion, at least a portion of which is inserted into the frame and electrically connected to the first conductive portion; and a fastening housing surrounding the second connector housing to fasten the second connector housing to the second conductive portion, and restricting separation of the coupling portion from the frame by a stepped structure contacting one surface of the coupling portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0100975, filed on August 11, 2022, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0162091, filed on November 28, 2022, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a connector module and a battery module comprising the connector module. Background Art

[0004] In order to solve the environmental pollution problems caused by the use of petroleum resources and the energy shortage problems caused by the depletion of petroleum resources, research and development of power generation based on environmentally friendly energy is being carried out. In particular, research on secondary batteries that can be repeatedly charged / discharged and are therefore highly usable is being actively carried out, and research on various aspects of secondary batteries such as materials, structures, processes and stability is being carried out.

[0005] As for the structure of secondary batteries, research and development on miniaturization and integration of related structures are actively carried out to increase energy density. In particular, as the capacity of the battery and the number of batteries mounted on the battery pack / battery module increase, the internal space of the battery pack / battery module becomes very narrow. Therefore, it is important to develop a structure that allows the battery to be effectively electrically connected to the outside of the battery pack / battery module while placing the battery in a limited space.

[0006] According to the related art, the internal components of the battery pack / battery module are coupled by welding, but the welding method has problems such as cracks or deterioration of manufacturing yield. In addition, according to the related art, when the internal components of the battery pack / battery module are miniaturized, there is a possibility of damage due to mechanical vibration / shock or connection failure. Summary of the invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] An object of the present invention to solve the above problems is to provide a connector module whose height is reduced to reduce the overall volume and thus occupy less space inside a battery module.

[0009] An object of the present invention to solve the above problems is to provide a connector module that can be easily installed and removed in a limited space and prevent damage and defects due to mechanical vibration and impact; and a battery module including the connector module.

[0010] An object of the present invention to solve the above problems is to provide a connector module which increases coupling force between components to ensure structural stability through a tilt prevention structure and a separation prevention structure, and a battery module including the connector module.

[0011] Technical Solution

[0012] A connector module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a first connector, which includes a first connector shell and a first conductive part coupled to the first connector shell; and a second connector, which is coupled to the first connector, wherein the second connector may include: a second connector shell, which includes a frame and a connecting part, the frame is inserted into the first connector and is coupled to the first connector, the connecting part is connected to a surface of the frame and is coupled to the first connector; a second conductive part, at least a portion of which is inserted into the frame and coupled to the frame so as to be electrically connected to the first conductive part; and a coupling shell, which is constructed to surround the second connector shell so as to couple the second connector shell to the second conductive part and to limit the separation of the connecting part from the frame by a stepped structure that contacts a surface of the connecting part.

[0013] Beneficial effects

[0014] The present invention may relate to a connector module and a battery module including the connector module. According to preferred embodiments of the present invention, the overall volume may be reduced to effectively utilize the internal space of the battery module.

[0015] According to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, due to miniaturization, mounting and dismounting of the connector can be easy even in a limited space.

[0016] According to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, damage and defects of the connector module and the battery module due to mechanical vibration and shock can be prevented.

[0017] According to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, the coupling force between the connector module and the members of the battery module may be increased by the tilt prevention structure and the separation prevention structure.

[0018] In addition, effects that are obvious to those skilled in the art can be predicted from the configuration according to the embodiments of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 is a plan view illustrating a configuration of a battery module when viewed from above according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration in which an upper case is omitted from a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 4 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a configuration in which a connector module is mounted on a control unit in a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a connector module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 6 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a configuration in which a connector module is mounted on a control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of a control unit cover according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 8 is a perspective view illustrating the arrangement of a conductive portion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Fig. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration of a first connector when viewed in one direction according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Fig.10 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration of a first connector when viewed in different directions according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Fig.11 is a perspective view illustrating a recessed line according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Fig.12 is a perspective view illustrating a comb tooth structure of a second connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Fig.13a FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a bottom surface of a comb-teeth structure of a second connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Fig.13b is a perspective view of the second connector when viewed from below according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Fig.14 is a plan view illustrating a state in which a first connector and a second connector are coupled to each other according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig.15 1 is a longitudinal sectional view taken along line BB in a state in which the first connector and the second connector are coupled to each other according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Fig.16 2 is a longitudinal sectional view taken along line CC in a state in which the first connector and the second connector are coupled to each other according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig.17 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of the first connector when viewed from above according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Fig.18 is a longitudinal sectional view of a first connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Fig.19 is a plan view illustrating a protruding rib of a first connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Fig. 20 is a plan view illustrating a hole of a first connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Fig.21 is a perspective view of an internal rib according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig. 22 is a front view illustrating internal ribs according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Fig.23 is a front view illustrating arrangement of protruding ribs and internal ribs according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Fig.24 is a perspective view of a second connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Fig.25 is an enlarged view of a second connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Fig.26 is a front view of a coupling housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Fig. 27 is an enlarged view of a connection portion and a coupling housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Fig.28 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration in which a second conducting portion is inserted into a second connector housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Fig.29 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration in which a coupling housing is coupled to a second connector housing and a second conducting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Fig.30 is a cross-sectional view of a connector module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Fig.31 is an enlarged view illustrating the interior of a connector module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Fig.32 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the interior of a connector module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Fig.33 is a schematic view illustrating a state in which a visual inspection is performed on a connector module using a visual inspection device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Fig.34 is a flow chart illustrating a process of performing a visual inspection according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Fig.35 is a perspective view of a connector module subjected to visual inspection in a connector inspection method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Fig.36 is a plan view of a reference line according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Fig.37 is a plan view of a reference line according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Fig.38 is a plan view of a reference line according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Fig.39 is a plan view of a reference line according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Fig.40 is a plan view of a reference line according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the present invention can be implemented in several different forms and is not limited or restricted by the following examples.

[0061] In order to explain the present invention clearly, the detailed description of the related known technology that is not related to the description or may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention has been omitted, and in this description, the reference numerals are added to the components in each drawing. In this case, the same or similar reference numerals are assigned to the same or similar elements throughout this description.

[0062] Furthermore, the terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be restrictively interpreted as ordinary meanings or dictionary-based meanings, but should be interpreted as meanings and concepts consistent with the scope of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of the terms to best describe and interpret his or her invention.

[0063] [Topic 1]

[0064] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a battery module 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of a battery module 1 when viewed from above according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration in which the upper case 3 - 1 is omitted from the battery module 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 4 1 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a configuration in which a connector module 100 is mounted on a control unit 10 in a battery module 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] <Structure of Battery Module 1>

[0066] When reference Figure 1 When describing, the battery module 1 may include a plurality of batteries (e.g., Figure 3 The plurality of batteries 2 in the battery module 1 may be, for example, secondary batteries that can be repeatedly charged and discharged. The plurality of batteries 2 may be regularly arranged in a predetermined pattern, but is not limited thereto. The plurality of batteries 2 may be electrically connected to the outside of the battery module 1.

[0067] The battery module 1 may include a battery case 3. For example, the battery case 3 may be provided to surround the plurality of batteries 2. The battery case 2 may define a portion of the exterior of the battery module 1.

[0068] The battery case 3 may include an upper case 3-1, a side case 3-2, and a lower case 3-3. For example, the upper case 3-1 may define the upper portion of the battery module 1 while covering the upper portion of the plurality of batteries 2. The side case 3-2 may define the side portion of the battery module 1 while covering the lateral side of the plurality of batteries 2. The lower case 3-3 may define the lower portion of the battery module 1 while covering the lower side of the plurality of batteries 2.

[0069] At least two of the upper case 3 - 1 , the side case 3 - 2 , and the lower case 3 - 3 may be provided to be integrated with each other.

[0070] For example, when the upper case 3 - 1 and the lower case 3 - 3 are integrated with each other, the plurality of batteries 2 may be placed inside the battery case 3 except for the side case 3 - 2 and then assembled with the side case 3 - 2 .

[0071] For example, when the upper case 3 - 1 and the side case 3 - 2 are integrated with each other, the plurality of batteries 2 may be placed inside the battery case 3 except for the lower case 3 - 3 and then assembled with the lower case 3 - 3 .

[0072] The battery module 1 may include a control unit 10. For example, the control unit 10 may be mounted on the battery housing 3. Specifically, for example, the control unit 10 may be mounted on the upper housing 3-1. The control unit 10 may be configured to enable wireless communication with an external control device.

[0073] The battery module 1 may include a connector module 100 (see Figure 3 ). For example, the connector module 100 may electrically connect the control unit 10 to the plurality of batteries 2. In addition, the connector module 100 may be mounted on the control unit 10 and detachable from the control unit 10.

[0074] The control unit 10 may include a control PCB 11. For example, the control PCB 11 may be electrically connected to the plurality of batteries 2 through a connector module 100. The control PCB 11 may be configured to enable wireless communication with an external control device. The control PCB 11 may be attached to the battery housing 3 (or the upper housing 3-1). Installation on the upper portion may facilitate wireless communication.

[0075] The control PCB 11 may be mounted on the PCB frame 13. For example, the PCB frame 13 may be a frame for arranging the control PCB 11. The control PCB 11 may be mounted on the upper housing 3-1 through the PCB frame 13. Specifically, the control PCB 11 may be mounted on the PCB frame 13, and the PCB frame 13 may be mounted on the upper housing 3-1. In other words, the PCB frame 13 may be placed on a concave or recessed PCB mounting area in the upper housing 3-1. In this case, the PCB frame 13 may be observed from the outside in a state where the control unit cover 12 is not installed. However, this may not be limited to this.

[0076] The control unit 10 may include a control unit cover 12. For example, the control unit cover 12 may cover the control PCB 11. The control unit cover 12 may be attached to the battery housing 3 (or the upper housing 3-1). The control unit cover 12 may cover the upper side of the control PCB 11 to protect the control PCB 11 from impact outside the control unit 10.

[0077] When reference Figure 2When describing, the control unit 10 may be disposed on the upper housing 3-1 of the battery housing 3. The area on which the control unit 10 is mounted may have a surface area that is less than 20% of the surface area of ​​the upper housing 3-1. For example, if the surface area of ​​the area of ​​the upper housing 3-1 is 125288mm 2 , then the surface area of ​​the area on which the control unit 10 is mounted may be 22752 mm 2 In this case, the surface area of ​​the area on which the control unit 10 is installed may be approximately 18% of the surface area of ​​the area of ​​the upper housing 3-1. However, the numbers described above are examples and may not be limited thereto. Since the area on which the control unit 10 is installed has a surface area that is less than 20% of the surface area of ​​the area of ​​the upper housing 3-1, limited space can be effectively utilized.

[0078] When reference Figure 3 and 4 When describing, the connector module 100 may be mounted on the control PCB 11. For example, the connector module 100 may be mounted on the control PCB 11. The connector module 100 may be mounted on the control PCB 11 so as to be placed in a space between the control PCB 11 and the control unit cover 12. However, this may not be limited thereto.

[0079] The connector module 100 may include a plurality of connector modules (e.g., reference numerals 101 and 102). For example, the connector module 100 may include a first connector module 101. The first connector module 101 may extend toward one side of the battery housing 3 and may be connected to the first electrodes of the plurality of batteries 2. The connector module 100 may include a second connector module 102. The second connector module 102 may extend toward the other side of the battery housing 3 and may be connected to the second electrodes of the plurality of batteries 2, the polarity of the second electrodes being different from the polarity of the first electrodes. Since the connector module 100 includes the plurality of connector modules 101 and 102, the connector module 100 may be effectively connected to the electrodes of the plurality of batteries 2 having different polarities. However, this is not limited thereto, and the connector module 100 may be provided as a single module. For example, one connector module 100 may extend toward the other side of the battery housing 3 and be connected to the electrodes of the plurality of batteries 2 having different polarities.

[0080] The first connector module 101 and the second connector module 102 may be spaced apart from each other. For example, each of the first connector module 101 and the second connector module 102 may be mounted on the control PCB 11, and the first connector module 101 and the second connector module 102 may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. The structure in which the first connector module 101 and the second connector module 102 are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance is not particularly limited thereto. In other words, the range in which the first connector module 101 and the second connector module 102 can be mounted on the control PCB 11 to be spaced apart from each other may be a range in which the first connector module 101 and the second connector module 102 do not overlap each other so as not to cause incorrect assembly. However, the numerical range described above may be an example and may not be limited thereto.

[0081] The first connector module 101 and the second connector module 102 may extend in opposite directions, respectively. For example, each of the first connector module 101 and the second connector module 102 may include a conductive portion, and the conductive portion may be connected to electrodes with different polarities, respectively. Each of the conductive portions may correspond to the second conductive portion 310 to be described later. The first connector module 101 and the second connector module 102 may be placed to be spaced apart from each other to effectively reduce the length of the conductive portion (e.g., the second conductive portion 310) to be described, wherein the conductive portion extends to the electrical connection portion in proportion to the degree of separation. As described above, although the conductive portion is described as being provided in the connector module, the conductive portion may be an FFC connected to the connector module and may be interpreted and understood as a separate construction.

[0082] The connector module 100 may include a first connector 200 and a second connector 300. For example, the first connector 200 may be mounted (or coupled) to be electrically connected to the control unit 10 (or the control PCB 11). The second connector 300 may be mounted on the first connector 200 and may be detachable therefrom. For example, the second connector 300 may be hooked (or hung) to the first connector 200. When the connector module 100 includes the plurality of connector modules 101 and 102, each of the plurality of connector modules 101 and 102 may include the first connector 200 and the second connector 300.

[0083] Figure 5 1 is an exploded perspective view of a connector module 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment may be applied identically or similarly to this embodiment.

[0084] <Structure of Connector Module 100>

[0085] The connector module 100 may be provided by mounting the second connector 300 on the first connector 200. Since the second connector 300 is mounted on the first connector 200, the control PCB 11 and the plurality of batteries 2 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0086] refer to Figure 5 , the first connector 200 may include a first conductive portion 210. For example, the first conductive portion 210 may be electrically connected to the control unit 10. Specifically, the first conductive portion 210 may be electrically connected to the control PCB 11.

[0087] The first connector 200 may include a first connector housing 220. For example, the first connector housing 220 may define the exterior of the first connector 200. An insertion space V into which the second connector 300 may be inserted may be defined in the first connector housing 220 so that the second connector 300 is inserted (see Fig.18 ,wait).

[0088] A hole 230 may be defined in the first connector 200. For example, the hole 230 may be defined in the first connector housing 220 to allow a portion of the second connector 300 (or a connection portion 322 to be described later) to be hooked. A plurality of holes 230 may be defined.

[0089] The second connector 300 may include a second conductive portion 310. For example, the second conductive portion 310 may extend to a predetermined length to be electrically connected to the plurality of batteries 2. The second conductive portion 310 may include a portion that is folded during extension. As another example, the second conductive portion 310 may be a flat flexible cable (FFC).

[0090] As described above, although the second conductive portion 310 is described as being provided in the second connector 300 , the second conductive portion 310 may be an FFC connected to the second connector 300 and may be explained and understood as a separate configuration.

[0091] The second connector 300 may include a conductive film 311. For example, the conductive film 311 may be disposed on the second conductive portion 310. Specifically, the conductive film 311 may be disposed between the second conductive portion 310 and the second connector housing 320.

[0092] As described above, although the conductive film 311 is described as being provided in the second connector 300 , the conductive film 311 may be interpreted and understood as a separate configuration.

[0093] The second connector 300 may include a second connector housing 320. For example, the second connector housing 320 may define the exterior of the second connector 300. The second connector housing 320 may be inserted into the insertion space V inside the first connector housing 220.

[0094] The second connector 300 may include a connection portion 322. The connection portion 322 may be arranged to be rotatable to a predetermined degree in the second connector housing 320. For example, in the process of inserting the connection portion 322 into the first connector 200, the connection portion 322 can be rotated in a direction toward or away from the second connector housing 320. In other words, in the process of inserting the connection portion 322 into the first connector 200, the connection portion 322 may be rotated to include a section in which a height difference occurs at the distal end of the connection portion 322. The connection portion 322 (or the distal end of the connection portion 322) may pass through the hole 230 of the first connector 200 and then be connected to the first connector housing 220 to connect the first connector 200 to the first connector 200.

[0095] The connector module 100 may include a coupling housing 400. The coupling housing 400 may limit the movement of the second conductive portion 310 relative to the second connector housing 320. By limiting the movement of the second conductive portion 310, the coupling housing 400 may stably maintain the electrical contact between the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310.

[0096] Figure 6 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a configuration in which a connector module 100 is mounted on a control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 7 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a control unit cover 12 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment can be applied to this embodiment in the same or similar manner. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Give a description.

[0097] <Structure of Control Unit 10>

[0098] The control PCB 11 may be placed on a PCB frame 13 placed in a PCB mounting area that is set in a concave or recessed shape in the upper housing 3-1. The control PCB 11 may include an area on which the connector module 100 is placed and an area on which the connector module 100 is not placed. The area on which the connector module 100 is not placed may be the following area of ​​the control PCB 11, which is an area other than the area on which the connector module 100 is placed.

[0099] The control unit cover 12 may define an accommodation space in which the connector module 100 is accommodated. For example, the control unit cover 12 may be placed to cover the control PCB 11 in the battery housing 3 (or the upper housing 3-1), thereby defining an accommodation space for accommodating the connector module 100. As another example, the control unit cover 12 may be mounted on the battery housing 3 (or the upper housing 3-1) to cover the upper portion of the connector module 100.

[0100] In a region on which the connector module 100 is not placed, a height H1 from the control PCB 11 to the control unit cover 12 may be less than 4 mm (eg, 3.92 mm).

[0101] The control unit cover 12 may include a cover recess 12-1. An area of ​​the control unit cover 12 facing the connector module 100 may be recessed to a predetermined degree to define the cover recess 12-1. Specifically, for example, in an area where the connector module 100 is placed, a height from the control PCB 11 to the control unit cover 12 (or a height H2 of the cover recess 12-1) may be 5 mm or less.

[0102] In the area of ​​the cover recess 12-1, the area facing the connector module 100 may include a curved area. For example, the area facing the connector module 100 may be set as a gently inclined area, and therefore, even when each of the connector module 100 and the control unit cover 12 collides with the connector module 100 or comes into contact with the connector module 100, damage to each of the connector module 100 and the control unit cover 12 may be minimized.

[0103] The predetermined recessed degree (or height) H4 of the cover recess 12-1 may be 2 / 3 or more of the thickness of the remaining portion that is not recessed. For example, the thickness of the cover recess 12-1 of the control unit cover 12 may be 0.5 mm, and the thickness of the remaining portion may be 1.5 mm.

[0104] The thickness of the cover recess 12-1 may be 40% or less of the thickness of the remaining portion. For example, the thickness of the cover recess 12-1 of the control unit cover 12 may be 0.5 mm, and the thickness of the remaining portion may be 1.5 mm.

[0105] In this case, the predetermined recessed degree H4 may be 1 mm.

[0106] The height H3 of the connector module 100 may be less than the height H2 of the cover recess 12-1. For example, when the height H2 of the cover recess 12-1 is 5 mm or less, the connector module 100 may have a height of 4 mm or less. For example, the height H2 of the cover recess 12-1 may be 4.92 mm, and the height H3 of the connector module 100 may be 3.9 mm. However, the numerical range described above may be an example and may not be limited thereto.

[0107] The distance from the control PCB 11 to the control unit cover 12 may have a range of 3.9 mm to 5 mm. For example, the distance from any area of ​​the control PCB 11 to the control unit cover 12 may have a range of 3.9 mm to 5 mm. Specifically, for example, in the area of ​​the control PCB 11 on which the connector module 100 is placed, the distance between the control PCB 11 and the control unit cover 12 may be 4.92 mm. In addition, in the remaining area of ​​the control PCB 11, the distance between the control PCB 11 and the control unit cover 12 may be 3.92 mm. However, the numerical range described above may be an example with an error range of 0.05 mm and may not be limited thereto.

[0108] As described above, the cover recess 12-1 may be provided in the control unit cover 12 to prevent the control unit cover 12 itself from increasing in height due to the connector module 100, thereby effectively miniaturizing the control unit cover 12. In addition, the thickness of the remaining area of ​​the control unit cover 12 on which the cover recess 12-1 is not formed may be thicker than the cover recess 12-1 to effectively enhance the overall rigidity of the control unit cover 12.

[0109] Figure 8 3 is a perspective view illustrating the arrangement of the conductive portion 310 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment may be applied identically or similarly to this embodiment.

[0110] <Structure of the Conducting Section 310>

[0111] The second connector 300 may include a second conductive portion 310. Although the second conductive portion 310 is described as being provided in the second connector 300, the second conductive portion 310 may be an FFC connected to the second connector 300 and may be explained and understood as a separate configuration.

[0112] The second conductive portion 310 may be electrically connected to the plurality of batteries 2. For example, the second conductive portion 310 may extend to a predetermined length to be electrically connected to the plurality of batteries 2. The predetermined length may be a length extending from the second connector housing 320 to one side (or the other side) of the battery housing 3 and electrically connected to the plurality of batteries 2.

[0113] The second conductive portion 310 may include portions 312 and 313 that are folded during extension. For example, the second conductive portion 310 may include a first folded portion 312 and a second folded portion 313 during extension. Specifically, the second conductive portion 310 may be an FFC, and electrical connection may be maintained even when folded. Therefore, the second conductive portion 310 may be folded during extension, and thus, space efficiency may be maximized and effectively connected to the plurality of batteries 2. In addition, by structurally adaptively designing and implementing the folding of the second conductive portion 310 into various paths, the path of electrical connection may be effectively implemented.

[0114] A flexible flat cable (FFC) may be a cable (e.g., a ribbon cable) connected through a connector housing, and a flexible printed circuit (FPC) may be a printed circuit using a printing method, and therefore, the FFC may be larger than the FPC. However, as in the above-described embodiment, the connector module 100 may be set to a height of 4 mm or less to maximize space efficiency.

[0115] [Topic 2]

[0116] Fig. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration of a first connector 200 when viewed in one direction according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig.10 1 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of the first connector 200 when viewed in different directions according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment can be applied to this embodiment in the same or similar manner. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Give a description.

[0117] <Reinforcement Structure of First Connector 200>

[0118] The first connector 200 may include a protrusion 221. For example, the protrusion 221 may be provided to protrude from an inner bottom surface of the first connector housing 220. In addition, the first conductive portion 210 may be mounted on the protrusion 221.

[0119] The protrusion 221 may include a body portion 222. For example, the body portion 222 may protrude to a first height h1 from the inner bottom surface of the first connector housing 220. Specifically, for example, when the height H3 of the first connector 200 is 3.5 mm to 4 mm, the first height h1 may have a range of 0.4 mm to 0.6 mm.

[0120] The protrusion 221 may include a partition wall 223. For example, the partition wall 223 may be provided to protrude from the main body portion 222. The partition wall 223 may protrude from the inner bottom surface to a second height h2 higher than the first height h1. The partition wall 223 may protrude from the main body portion 222 in the form of a plurality of partition walls. The main body portion 222 may be provided to include an area on which the partition wall 223 is placed when viewed from above and may extend toward the opening 220-1.

[0121] The first conductive portion 210 may be provided in a plurality in a direction intersecting the direction DI in which the second connector 300 is inserted. For example, the first conductive portion 210 may be provided in the form of a plurality of connection terminals and may be disposed in a plurality in the intersecting direction. As another example, the first conductive portion 210 may have a plurality of connection terminals alternately arranged with the partition wall 223. The alternating arrangement may be used to prevent a short circuit from occurring in the connection terminal.

[0122] The main body portion 222 may extend in parallel to the direction in which the first conductive portion 210 is placed. For example, the length w1 of the main body portion 222 in the direction intersecting the direction DI in which the second connector 300 is inserted may have a range of 10 mm to 13 mm. The width w2 of each of the partition walls 223 may have a range of 0.5 mm to 0.7 mm. Each of the partition walls 223 may include a plastic material (e.g., engineering plastic). For example, each of the partition walls 223 may be PA9T, but is not limited thereto. When each of the partition walls 223 is made of the plastic material described above, the partition wall 223 may have long-term heat resistance at high temperatures, strong durability against various chemicals, and have the general effect of mechanical properties obtained by engineering plastics.

[0123] The protrusion 221 including the main body portion 222 and the partition wall 223 provided as a reinforcement structure may be provided on the first connector 200. Therefore, when the second connector 300 is inserted, the partition wall 223 may be effectively prevented from being damaged or broken due to direct collision or interference with the second connector housing 320. Since the main body portion 222 has a structure filled into the lower space of each of the partition walls 223, the strength of the partition walls may be supplemented, and therefore, the partition walls may be firmly maintained in their shape without being easily damaged.

[0124] Fig.11 2 is a perspective view illustrating a recessed line 224 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment may be equally or similarly applied to this embodiment.

[0125] <Recessed line 224>

[0126] The body portion 222 may include a recessed line 224. For example, the recessed line 224 may be provided by being recessed in the body portion 222.

[0127] The recessed lines 224 may be alternately disposed with the partition walls 223. As a specific example, when viewed from the opening 220-1, the recessed lines 224 may be alternately disposed between the partition walls 223.

[0128] The recessed line 224 may be spaced apart from the partition wall 223 to extend toward the opening 220-1. For example, the recessed line 224 may be spaced apart from the partition wall 223 in a direction parallel to the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted, and the second connector 300 may extend toward the opening 220-1 in a direction parallel to the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted.

[0129] The recessed line 224 may be provided to guide a comb tooth structure 350 to be described later. For example, the recessed line 224 may have a shape corresponding to the comb tooth structure 350. The recessed line 224 may be provided to be recessed in the body portion 222 so as to be guided when the comb tooth structure 350 is inserted.

[0130] Since the main body portion 222 is provided with the recessed line 224 , when the second connector 300 is inserted into the first connector 200 , the comb tooth structure 350 may not deviate from the insertion path to effectively prevent the partition wall 223 from being damaged or broken due to direct collision or interference with the second connector housing 320 .

[0131] When the comb tooth structure 350 is inserted into the partition wall 223, the recessed line 224 may be provided so that a portion of the comb tooth structure 350 is mounted thereon. For example, when the distal end of the comb tooth structure 350 is inserted and mounted between the partition walls 223, a portion of the comb tooth structure 350 at one side of the comb tooth base portion 360 may be mounted on the recessed line 224. This portion of the comb tooth structure 350 may be mounted on the recessed line 224 to prevent the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 from additionally shaking due to vibration and shock when the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 are coupled to each other, thereby stably maintaining the electrical connection therebetween.

[0132] Fig.12 is a perspective view illustrating a comb structure 350 of a second connector 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig.13a is a bottom surface of the comb structure of the second connector 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig.13b is a perspective view of the second connector when viewed from below according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0133] The description of the previous embodiment can be applied to this embodiment in the same or similar manner. Fig.12, Fig.13a and Fig.13b Give a description.

[0134] <Opening 340>

[0135] The opening portion 340 may be defined in the second connector 300. For example, the opening portion 340 may be a space that is provided so that the partition wall 223 is placed when the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 are coupled to each other. Specifically, for example, the opening portion 340 may refer to a space between a protrusion portion 321-2 and a comb tooth structure 350 to be described later. In addition, the opening portion 340 may refer to a space between the comb tooth structures 350. When the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 are coupled to each other, the partition wall 223 may be inserted into the space between the protrusion portion 321-2 and the comb tooth structure 350 or into the space between the comb tooth structures 350.

[0136] <Comb tooth structure 350>

[0137] The second connector 300 may include a comb-tooth base portion 360. For example, the comb-tooth base portion 360 may be a portion facing the body portion 222 when the second connector 300 is inserted into the first connector 200.

[0138] The second connector 300 may include a comb-tooth structure 350. For example, the comb-tooth structure 350 may protrude from the comb-tooth base portion 360 toward the first connector 200. As another example, the comb-tooth structure 350 may have a shape corresponding to the protrusion 221 of the first connector 200.

[0139] The second conductive part 310 may be inserted into and placed in a frame (eg, Fig.25 and Fig.28 The first conductive portion 210 may be formed in a recessed portion surrounded by a frame 321 in the comb structure 350 and a connection portion 322. A plurality of holes 350-1 may be defined to pass through the spaces between the comb teeth structures 350, and the first conductive portion 210 may be in contact with the bottom surface of the second conductive portion 310 through the holes 350-1 therethrough. In this case, the first conductive portion 210 may be electrically connected by contacting one surface of the second conductive portion 310.

[0140] Based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted, the ratio of the length of the portion of the second connector 300 inserted into the first connector 200 to the length of the comb-tooth structure 350 may have a range of 1 to 3. For example, based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted, the length of the comb-tooth structure 350 may have a range of 2 mm to 4 mm, and the portion of the second connector 300 inserted into the first connector 200 may have a range of 4 mm to 6 mm. Specifically, when the length of the comb-tooth structure 350 is 2 mm and the length of the inserted portion is 6 mm, the ratio of the length of the portion of the second connector 300 inserted into the first connector 200 to the length of the comb-tooth structure 350 may be 3. In addition, when the length of the comb-tooth structure 350 is 4 mm and the length of the inserted portion is 4 mm, the ratio of the length of the portion of the second connector 300 inserted into the first connector 200 to the length of the comb-tooth structure 350 may be 1. However, this may not be limited thereto.

[0141] The second connector 300 may include a protrusion 321-2. For example, when the second connector 300 is inserted into the first connector 200, the protrusion 321-2 may protrude from each of the two ends of the second connector housing 320 to surround both sides of the protrusion 221. In addition, the protrusion 321-2 may extend from each of the two ends of the second connector housing 320 based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted. As another example, the protrusion 321-2 may protrude from the second connector housing 320 so that the second connector 300 faces the inner bottom surface when the second connector 300 is inserted into the first connector 200. Since the protrusion 321-2 is provided to surround the protrusion 221 of the first connector 200, the insertion of the second connector 200 may be guided. In addition, the second connector 200 may be guided to prevent the partition wall 223 from being damaged or broken so as to prevent the connection terminals of the first conductive portion 210 from being short-circuited to each other.

[0142] Fig.14 2 is a plan view illustrating a state in which a first connector 200 and a second connector 300 are coupled to each other according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig.15 is a longitudinal sectional view taken along line BB in a state where the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 are coupled to each other according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig.16 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along line CC in a state where the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 are coupled to each other according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment may be applied to this embodiment in the same or similar manner. Figure 14 to Figure 16 Give a description.

[0143] <Relationship between the protrusion 221, the comb tooth structure 350, and the comb tooth base portion 360>

[0144] The second connector 300 may be inserted and mounted inside the first connector 200. In this case, the connection portion 322 of the second connector 300 may be hooked to the hole 230 of the first connector 200.

[0145] The coupling housing 400 may restrict the movement of the second conductive portion 310. For example, the coupling housing 400 may be mounted on the second connector housing 320 to restrict the movement of the second conductive portion 310.

[0146] Referring to the cross section along line BB, the comb tooth structure 350 may be inserted between the partition walls 223. For example, the comb tooth structure 350 may be configured to be inserted into the space between the partition walls 223 when the second connector 300 is inserted and mounted on the first connector 200. In other words, the comb tooth structure 350 and the partition walls 223 may have structures corresponding to each other to enable insertion and coupling.

[0147] Referring to the cross section along line CC, the comb tooth base portion 360 may be aligned with the body portion 222. For example, the comb tooth base portion 360 may be arranged to face the body portion 222 and to be aligned with the body portion 222 when the second connector 300 is inserted and mounted on the first connector 200. In other words, the comb tooth base portion 360 and the body portion 222 may have structures corresponding to each other so that the comb tooth base portion 360 and the body portion 222 are aligned with each other when facing each other.

[0148] [Topic 3]

[0149] Fig.17 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of the first connector 200 when viewed from above according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig.18 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a first connector 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment can be applied to this embodiment in the same or similar manner. Fig.17 and Fig.18 Give a description.

[0150] <Structure of the First Connector Housing 220>

[0151] The first connector 200 may include a first connector housing 220. An opening 220-1 may be defined in the first connector housing 220 to allow the second connector 300 to be inserted.

[0152] The first connector housing 220 may define an insertion space V. For example, the insertion space V may be defined by an upper portion 220-2, a side portion 220-3, and a lower portion 220-4 of the first connector housing 220. Specifically, the insertion space V may be defined by being surrounded by an inner surface of the upper portion 220-2, an inner surface of the side portion 220-3, and an inner surface of the lower portion 220-4.

[0153] The first conductive portion 21 may be disposed on the lower portion 220 - 4 to be electrically connected to the second connector 300 .

[0154] The first connector housing 220 may have a hole 230 defined through the upper portion 220 - 2 such that the second connector 300 is hooked.

[0155] The first connector housing 220 may include a protruding rib 225. For example, the protruding rib 225 may be placed on the edge of the upper portion 220-2. Specifically, the protruding rib 225 may be provided to protrude from the edge of the upper portion 220-2 at a side into which the second connector 300 is inserted. The protruding rib 225 may enhance the structural rigidity of the upper portion 220-2 in which the hole 230 is defined.

[0156] Fig.19 2 is a plan view illustrating a protruding rib 225 of a first connector 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment may be equally or similarly applied to this embodiment.

[0157] <Structure of protruding rib 225>

[0158] The edge of the upper portion 220-2 facing the opening 220-1 may include a protruding rib 225. For example, the upper portion 220-2 may include a protruding rib 225 protruding from the hole 230 toward the opening 220-1.

[0159] The distance A from the edge of the hole 230 toward the opening 220-1 to the end of the protruding rib 225 may range from 3 to 4 times the thickness T of the upper portion 220-2. For example, the thickness T of the upper portion 220-2 may range from 0.4 mm to 0.5 mm. In this case, the distance A may range from 1.2 mm to 2.0 mm.

[0160] The protrusion degree A' of the protruding rib 225 may be determined depending on the thickness T of the upper portion 220-2. For example, as the thickness T of the upper portion 220-2 becomes thicker, the protrusion degree A' may increase.

[0161] The protruding rib 225 may be disposed on the first connector housing 220 to enhance the rigidity of the upper portion 220-2 in which the hole 230 is defined. For example, even if external force is applied, pressure may be distributed in proportion to the degree to which the protruding rib 225 protrudes to prevent the upper portion 220-2 from being broken or damaged.

[0162] Cracks in the upper portion 220-2 may occur in a diagonal direction with respect to the edge on which the protruding rib 225 is placed. Since the protruding rib 225 is provided to protrude, the length g in the diagonal direction may also extend to enhance strength in the diagonal direction.

[0163] Fig. 20 2 is a plan view illustrating a hole 230 of a first connector 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment may be equally or similarly applied to this embodiment.

[0164] <Structure of Hole 230>

[0165] The hole 230 may be defined in the first connector housing 220. For example, the hole 230 may have a rounded shape at an edge toward the opening 220-1. The rounded shape defined in the hole 230 may be set such that a fillet radius value R is 0.3 mm to 1 mm.

[0166] The hole 230 may include a plurality of holes. For example, the plurality of holes may be defined along a direction parallel to an edge of the upper portion 220-2 toward the opening 220-1. The protruding rib 225 may extend parallel to the direction in which the plurality of holes are defined.

[0167] When the protruding rib 225 is arranged to extend along the plurality of holes, the upper portion 220-1 in which the plurality of holes are defined can be effectively prevented from being cracked or damaged. Even if an external force is applied, the pressure can be distributed in proportion to the extent to which the protruding rib 225 extends to prevent the upper portion 220-2 from being broken or damaged.

[0168] Fig.21 is a perspective view of the internal rib 226 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 22 2 is a front view of an internal rib 226 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment can be applied to this embodiment in the same or similar manner. Fig.21 and Fig. 22 Give a description.

[0169] <Structure of the internal rib 226>

[0170] The upper portion 220 - 2 may include an inner rib 226. For example, the inner rib 226 may protrude toward the insertion space V. In addition, the inner rib 226 may protrude in a direction parallel to the direction DI in which the second connector 300 is inserted.

[0171] The internal ribs 226 may not interfere with the insertion of the second connector 300 into the insertion space V. For example, the internal ribs 226 may be disposed on a region other than an insertion path toward the insertion space V of the second connector 300. As another example, a surface of the second connector housing 320 that faces a surface of the upper portion 220-2 of the first connector housing 220 on which the internal ribs 226 are disposed may be provided as a corresponding structure.

[0172] The internal rib 226 may protrude in the range of 1 to 2 times the thickness T of the upper portion 220-2. For example, when the thickness T of the upper portion 220-2 has a range of 0.4 mm to 0.5 mm, the internal rib 226 may protrude in the range of 0.8 mm to 1.0 mm. When the protrusion of the internal rib 226 is designed to be in the range of 1 to 2 times the thickness T of the upper portion 220-2, rigidity can be effectively ensured regardless of whether there are additional protrusions. However, the numerical ranges described above may be illustrative and may not be limited thereto.

[0173] The upper portion 220 - 2 may include a plurality of inner ribs 226 . For example, the inner ribs 226 may protrude toward the insertion space V. In addition, the inner ribs 226 may be symmetrically disposed around the protruding ribs 225 .

[0174] The plurality of internal ribs 226 may be disposed alternately with the holes 230. For example, the plurality of internal ribs 226 may be disposed alternately with the holes 230 based on the inner surface of the upper portion 220-2. As a specific example, the holes 230 may be two holes, and the internal ribs 226 may include three internal ribs alternately spaced apart from each other with the two holes 230 therebetween.

[0175] The internal rib 226 may enhance the rigidity of the thin thickness T of the upper portion 220 - 2 . In addition, the internal rib 226 may enhance the rigidity of the upper portion 220 - 2 in which the hole 230 is defined.

[0176] Fig.23 2 is a front view illustrating the arrangement of the protruding ribs 225 and the internal ribs 226 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment may be applied to this embodiment identically or similarly.

[0177] <Arrangement of Protruding Ribs 225 and Internal Ribs 226>

[0178] The first connector housing 220 may include a protruding rib 225 and an inner rib 226. For example, the first connector housing 220 may include a protruding rib 225 that protrudes from an edge of the upper portion 220-2 toward the opening 220-1 from the hole 230. In addition, the first connector housing 220 may include an inner rib 226 that protrudes from the upper portion 220-2 toward the insertion space V.

[0179] The protruding rib 225 and the inner rib 226 may include an overlapping area. For example, when viewed toward the opening 220-1 in the direction DI in which the second connector 300 is inserted, the protruding rib 225 and the inner rib 226 may include an overlapping area along the edge.

[0180] refer to Fig.23 , the internal rib 226 may protrude toward the insertion space V with a predetermined protrusion length B1. In addition, the internal rib 226 may extend to a predetermined extension length B2 along the edge of the opening 220-1 of the upper portion 220-2. In this case, the protruding rib 225 and the internal rib 226 may have a predetermined overlap length B3. The length of the overlapping area may be the overlap length B3. As a specific example, the overlap length B3 may have a range of 25% to 50% of the length B2 along the edge of the internal rib 226. As the overlap length B3 increases, the reinforcement strength may increase.

[0181] The internal ribs 226 may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of internal ribs 226 may have different widths. Specifically, the internal ribs 226 may include three internal ribs. The three internal ribs may be disposed between the two holes and may include a central rib having a first width and external ribs disposed outside the two holes, and each of the external ribs has a second width greater than the first width.

[0182] Among the three internal ribs, the degree to which the central rib protrudes toward the insertion space may be greater than the degree to which the outer rib protrudes toward the insertion space. When the second connector 300 is inserted into the insertion space, the central rib may have a high probability of being contacted when viewed from the insertion path. The central rib may protrude more than the outer ribs to enhance strength, thereby preventing damage caused by contact. In addition, when inserted, the second connector 300 may perform a guiding function. The central rib may extend to the area from which the protruding rib 225 protrudes. In other words, the central rib may extend further toward the opening 220-1 than the outer ribs. The width of each of the internal ribs and the degree of protrusion of each of the internal ribs may vary depending on the number, position and size of the hole 230.

[0183] Each of the protrusion degrees A' and B1 of the protruding rib 225 and the inner rib 226 may be determined depending on the thickness T of the upper portion 220-2. When each of the protrusion degrees A' and B1 is determined depending on the thickness T of the upper portion 220-2, the rigidity of the thin thickness T of the upper portion 220-2 in which the hole 230 is defined may be enhanced according to structural adaptability.

[0184] [Theme 4]

[0185] <Separation Prevention Structure of Coupling Housing 400>

[0186] Fig.24 is a perspective view of a second connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0187] refer to Fig.24 , the connector module 100 may include a first connector 200 and a second connector 300 (see Figure 5 ).

[0188] The first connector 200 may be electrically connected to the control unit 10. The first connector 200 may include a first connector housing 220 and a first conductive portion 210.

[0189] The first connector housing 220 may define the appearance of the first connector 200. For example, the first connector housing 220 may include a housing shape having a recessed side therein. Specifically, the first connector housing 220 may include an opening 220-1 open on one side and may include a first recessed portion 220a recessed inwardly from the opening 220-1. The second connector 300 may be inserted into and coupled to the first recessed portion 220a.

[0190] The first conductive portion 210 may be connected to the first connector housing 220 and may be electrically connected to the control unit.

[0191] The second connector 300 may be electrically connected to the first connector 200. For example, the second connector 300 may be inserted into and coupled to the first connector 200. Specifically, the second connector 300 may be inserted into a first recessed portion 220a defined inside the first connector housing 220 and coupled to the first connector 200. For example, one side of the second connector 300 may be electrically connected to the first connector 200, that is, the first conductive portion 210, and the other side of the second connector 300 may be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells 2.

[0192] The second connector 300 may include a second connector housing 320 , a second conducting portion 310 , and a coupling housing 400 .

[0193] The second connector housing 320 may define the appearance of the second connector 300 and may be a configuration inserted and coupled to the first connector 200. In other words, the second connector housing 320 may be inserted into the first recessed portion 220a of the first connector 200 and integrally coupled to the first connector 200.

[0194] The second connector housing 320 may include a frame 321 and a connection portion 322 (see Fig.24 ).

[0195] The frame 321 may be inserted into and coupled to the first connector 200. In other words, the frame 321 may be inserted into the first recessed portion 220a of the first connector housing 220 and structurally coupled to the first connector 200.

[0196] The connection portion 322 may be connected to one surface of the frame 321 and may be coupled to the first connector 200. For example, the connection portion 322 may be connected to the top surface of the frame 321. The connection portion 322 may be coupled to the first connector 200 by being coupled to the inner top surface of the first connector housing 220 while being connected to the top surface of the frame 321.

[0197] In this case, the connection portion 322 can be coupled to the first connector 200 by hook coupling. For example, the connection portion 322 may include a rod shape. Specifically, there is a portion that passes through the top surface of the first connector housing 220, that is, the hole 230, so that the top surface of the first connector housing 220 and the first recessed portion 220a communicate with each other, and the connection portion 322 can be coupled to the through portion of the top surface of the first connector housing 220.

[0198] More specifically, based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted into the first connector 200 , the front side of the connection portion 322 may be moved up and down from the connection portion 322 in a state connected to the frame 321 .

[0199] In a state where the connection portion 322 is spaced apart from the second conductive portion 310 by a predetermined interval, the second connector 300 may be inserted into and coupled to the first connector 200, and thus, the connection portion 322 may be moved downward to be coupled to a penetration portion of the top surface of the first connector housing 220, thereby connecting the first connector 200 to the second connector 300 through the connection portion 322. In this case, the connection portion 322 may be spaced apart from the second conductive portion 310 by a predetermined interval.

[0200] On the other hand, when the connection portion 322 moves downward by receiving an external force from a user or the like, the connection may be released, and thus, the second connector 300 may be separated from the first connector 200 .

[0201] Fig.25 is an enlarged view of a second connector according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig.25 The connection portion 322 may include a protrusion portion 322-1 protruding upward on its top surface. In a state where the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 are coupled to each other, a user may press the protrusion portion 322-1 of the connection portion 322 to separate the second connector 300 from the first connector 200.

[0202] The second conductive portion 310 may be electrically connected to the first conductive portion 210 by inserting at least a portion of the second conductive portion 310 into the frame 321. In other words, the second conductive portion 310 may be electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells to receive electrical signals from the plurality of battery cells and transmit the received electrical signals to the first conductive portion 210. For example, the second conductive portion 310 may include a flexible flat cable (FFC).

[0203] A region surrounded by the frame 321 and the connection portion 322 and having one side opened may be defined inside the frame 321 , and the second conductive portion 310 may be inserted and coupled to be surrounded by the frame 321 and the connection portion 322 .

[0204] The coupling housing 400 may couple the second connector housing 320 to the second conductive portion 310. For example, in a state where the second conductive portion 310 is inserted into and coupled to the second connector housing 320, the coupling housing 400 may surround the second connector housing 320. Specifically, the coupling housing 400 may functionally prevent the second conductive portion 310 from being separated from the second connector housing 320 by compressing and holding the second connector housing 320 and the second conductive portion 310.

[0205] Meanwhile, the coupling housing 400 can restrict the connection part 322 from being separated from the frame 321 by the stepped structure 410-1 contacting one surface of the connection part 322. In other words, the structure in which a portion of the connection part 322 is hooked with the coupling housing 400 can prevent the connection part 322 from being excessively deformed or moved upward.

[0206] Fig.26 is a front view of a coupling housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0207] refer to Fig.26 , the coupling housing 400 may include a coupling body 410 and a coupling portion 420 .

[0208] The coupling body 410 may contact the second connector housing 320 and the second conductive portion 310 to couple the second connector housing 320 to the second conductive portion 310. For example, the coupling body 410 may be placed at the rear side of the connection portion 322 to surround a portion of the rear side of the connection portion 322 and compress the second conductive portion 310, thereby coupling the second connector housing 320 to the second conductive portion 310.

[0209] The coupling body 410 may include a first coupling body 411 and a second coupling body 412 .

[0210] Based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted into the first connector 200, the first coupling body 411 may be disposed at the rear side of the connection portion 322. For example, when viewed in the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted into the second connector 300, the first coupling body 411 may be disposed at the rear side of the connection portion 322 and then may be formed and arranged to extend to both sides. That is, the first coupling body 411 may be disposed along the rear side of the connection portion 322.

[0211] The second coupling body 412 may be disposed at each of the two sides of the first coupling body 411 to surround a portion of each of the two sides of the connection portion 322. In this case, the following portion of the second coupling body 412 may include a stepped portion 410-1, wherein the portion of the second coupling body 412 surrounds some portions of the two sides of the connection portion 322. In other words, the coupling body 410 may include a stepped portion 410-1 that contacts one surface of the connection portion 322 to be stepped. However, the stepped portion 410-1 may not necessarily be disposed at both sides of the connection portion 322, but may be disposed to correspond to at least one of the two sides of the connection portion 322.

[0212] Based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted, the connection portion 322 may be hooked with the stepped portion 410-1 of the coupling body 410 to limit the upward movement of the connection portion 322. For example, when the rear side of the connection portion 322 moves upward, the stepped portion 410-1 may contact the rear side of the connection portion 322.

[0213] Specifically, refer to Fig.25, as seen from the front side of the connection portion 322, the stepped portion 410-1 may have a first surface 410a, a second surface 410b, and a third surface 410c, wherein the first surface 410a is disposed on the upper side of the connection portion 322, the second surface 410b has one side connected to the lower side of the first surface 410a and in contact with the top surface of the connection portion 322, and the third surface 410c is connected to the other side of the second surface 410b and disposed along the side surface of the connection portion 322. In this case, since the top surface of the connection portion 322 is hooked with the second surface 410b, the top surface of the connection portion 322 may be disposed below the extension line of the second surface 410b. That is, the moving radius of the connection portion 322 may be limited so that the top surface of the connection portion 322 does not move upward from the second surface 410b.

[0214] Because the connection part 322 is hooked with the second surface 410b, the movement of the connection part 322 toward the upper side of the second surface 410b can be limited. According to this structure, the movement of the connection part 322 to a specific radius is limited, and the problem of excessive deformation or deviation to the upper side of the frame 321 can be prevented.

[0215] As a result, the problem that the connection portion 322 is lifted upward and plastically deformed or damaged can be prevented to improve the structural stability of the second connector 300, and thus, the coupling stability between the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 can be improved.

[0216] Fig. 27 is an enlarged view of a connection portion and a coupling housing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0217] refer to Fig. 27 , the top surface of the first coupling body 411 may be disposed lower than the top surface of the protruding portion 322-1 of the connection portion 322. In other words, the protruding portion 322-1 of the connection portion 322 may be disposed higher than an extended surface of the top surface of the first coupling body 410. Since the protruding portion 322-1 of the connection portion 322 is disposed above the top surface of the first coupling body 411, the user may more easily press and manipulate the protruding portion to facilitate the ease of use of the connector module 100.

[0218] In this case, the distance S between the top surface of the first coupling body 411 and the top surface of the protruding portion 322-1 of the connection part 322 may be 0.5 mm to 0.7 mm. When the distance S between the top surface of the first coupling body 411 and the top surface of the protruding portion 322-1 of the connection part 322 is less than 0.5 mm, the top surface of the first coupling body 411 and the top surface of the protruding portion 322-1 of the connection part 322 may be difficult to distinguish from each other, thereby deteriorating the convenience of use of the connector module 100. On the other hand, when the distance S between the top surface of the first coupling body 411 and the top surface of the protruding portion 322-1 of the connection part 322 exceeds 0.7 mm, the height of the protruding portion 322-1 of the connection part 322 may be too high, the total height of the connector module 100 may increase, and therefore, the space inside the battery module 1 may be inefficiently occupied.

[0219] In addition, when the height of the first coupling body 411 is L1 and the height of the second coupling body 412 is L2, the expression: 0.3≤L1 / L2≤0.5 may be satisfied. When L1 / L2 is less than 0.3, the height difference between the first coupling body 411 and the second coupling body 412 decreases, it may be difficult to find the position of the protruding portion 322-1 of the connecting portion 322, and therefore, the ease of use of the connector module 100 may be deteriorated. On the other hand, when L1 / L2 exceeds 0.5, the height of the first coupling body 411 may become significantly smaller, and therefore, there is a risk that the first coupling body 411 is easily damaged, and the height of the second coupling body 412 may be significantly increased. As a result, the problem of an increase in the overall height of the connector module 100 may occur.

[0220] The height L1 of the first coupling body 411 (in other words, the thickness of the first coupling body 411) may have a value of 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. Due to the thickness of the first coupling body 411, when pressing the connection part 322, the hand may be supported without excessively pressing down the connection part 322. This may allow the connection part 322 to move only within an allowable range to reduce the risk of damage and provide ease of use.

[0221] The coupling portion 420 may be connected to one side of the coupling body 410 and may be coupled to a side surface of the second connector housing 320. For example, the coupling portion 420 may include a structure extending from each of both sides of the coupling body 410 to surround both sides of the second connector housing 320. That is, the coupling portion 420 may be disposed along both sides of the frame 321 and coupled to both sides of the frame 321.

[0222] The coupling portion 420 may be coupled to the side surface of the frame 321 through a ring structure. Specifically, one side of the coupling portion 420 may be connected to the coupling body 410, and the ring structure 421 may be disposed on the other end of the coupling portion 420. The ring structure 421 of the coupling portion 420 may be disposed along the side surface of the frame 321 and coupled to the lower side of the frame 321.

[0223] More specifically, the coupling portion 420 may include an inclined surface inclined toward the side surface of the frame 321, and the side surface of the frame 321 may include an inclined surface corresponding to the inclined surface of the coupling portion 420. The ring structure 421 of the coupling portion 420 may be hooked with the side surface of the frame 321 by a sliding method in which the inclined surface of the coupling portion 420 moves along the inclined surface of the side surface of the frame 321. In other words, when the second conductive portion 310 is inserted into the frame 321, the coupling housing 400 may be coupled in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second conductive portion 310 is inserted, and the coupling housing 400 may be coupled so that the inclined surface of the coupling portion 420 moves along the inclined surface of the side surface of the frame 321, and thus, the ring structure 421 of the coupling portion 420 may be coupled to the lower side of the side surface of the frame 321.

[0224] [Topic 5]

[0225] <Through Structure of Coupling Housing 400>

[0226] Fig.28 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration in which a second conducting portion is inserted into a second connector housing according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig.29 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration in which a coupling housing is coupled to a second connector housing and a second conducting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig.30 is a cross-sectional view of a connector module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0227] refer to Figure 28 to Figure 30 , the coupling housing 400 may pass through the second connector housing 320 and the second conductive portion 310 to couple the second connector housing 320 to the second conductive portion 310. For example, the coupling housing 400 may further include a coupling pin 430 protruding from the coupling body 410 to pass through the second connector housing 320 and the second conductive portion 310. In other words, the coupling pin 430 may protrude from the bottom surface of the coupling body 410 toward the second conductive portion 310. The coupling pin 430 may be provided as a pair on both sides of the bottom surface of the coupling body 410.

[0228] Specifically, the coupling body 410 may protrude toward the second conductive portion 310 to define a portion in contact with the second conductive portion 310. In addition, the coupling body 410 may protrude toward the second conductive portion 310 to provide a portion in contact with the conductive film 311. The coupling pin 430 may be disposed to protrude from a portion protruding downward from the coupling body 410. In other words, the bottom surfaces of the first coupling body 411 and the second coupling body 412 may provide the same surface. Due to the ring structure of the coupling portion 420, the bottom surfaces of the first coupling body 411 and the second coupling body 412 may have a structure that protrudes more toward the second conductive portion 310 than the bottom surface of the coupling portion 420, and the coupling pin 430 may be disposed to protrude from the bottom surfaces of the first coupling body 411 and the second coupling body 412.

[0229] The end of the coupling pin 430 may include at least one of a bent shape or a horn shape. According to this structure of the end of the coupling pin 430, in the process of coupling the coupling pin 430 to the second connector housing 320, the ease of manufacturing can be increased.

[0230] The second connector housing 320 may include a first coupling hole 321a that is penetrated. For example, the first coupling hole 321a may be defined in the inner bottom surface of the frame 321. Specifically, the second conductive portion 310 may be inserted and coupled to the recessed portion 320-1 surrounded by the frame 321 and the connecting portion 322, the inner bottom surface of the frame 321 may be placed opposite to the connecting portion 322 based on the recessed portion 320-1, and the first coupling hole 321a may be defined to pass through the inner bottom surface of the frame 321. That is, the first coupling hole 321a may be defined to pass from the inner bottom surface of the frame 321 to the bottom surface of the frame 321.

[0231] The second conductive portion 310 may include a second coupling hole 310a that is penetrated. That is, the second coupling hole 310a may be defined to pass from the top surface of the second conductive portion 310 to the bottom surface. In this case, when the second conductive portion 310 is inserted and coupled to the second connector housing 320, the first coupling hole 321a and the second coupling hole 310a may be defined in the same line. In addition, when the second conductive portion 310 is inserted and coupled to the second connector housing 320, the coupling pin 430 may be placed to integrally pass through the first coupling hole 321a and the second coupling hole 310a.

[0232] The direction in which the second conductive portion 310 is inserted into the second connector housing 320 and the direction in which the coupling pin 430 passes may be perpendicular to each other.

[0233] According to this structure, the coupling pin 430 can restrict the second conductive part 310 from being separated from the second connector housing 320. Specifically, the coupling pin 430 can fix the second conductive part 310 to the second connector housing 320 so that the coupling pin 430 restricts the movement of the second conductive part 310 in a direction parallel to the direction in which the second conductive part 310 is inserted into the second connector housing 320.

[0234] The coupling pin 430 can be placed through the first coupling hole 321a and the second coupling hole 310a, and at the same time, the coupling hole 420 can be coupled to both sides of the frame 321 through the ring structure, and thus, the coupling force between the second connector housing 320 and the second conductive part 310 can be further increased.

[0235] As a result, the coupling force between the second connector housing 320 and the second conductive portion 310 may be increased by the coupling pin 430 , and thus, the structural stability of the connector module 100 may be increased.

[0236] Additionally, according to this structure of the coupling pin 430, the contact area between the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310 can be constantly maintained. In other words, the second conductive portion 310 can be fixed to a specific position inside the second connector housing 320, and the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310 can always define a contact area with a constant area, and the pre-planned contact method and circuit arrangement can be maintained to improve the transmission and reception quality of the electrical signal. As a result, due to this structure, the electrical signal can be transmitted and received more accurately through the connector module 100, and therefore, the control quality of the control unit 10 can be further improved.

[0237] [Topic 6]

[0238] <Tilt prevention structure>

[0239] The frame 321 may include a structure for preventing the second connector 300 from tilting. The tilting phenomenon may refer to a phenomenon in which the posture and angle of the second connector 300 are changed in a state in which the second connector 300 is coupled to the first connector 200. This tilting phenomenon may occur due to a weakening of the coupling force between the first connector 200 and the second connector 300, and thus, a problem that hinders the structural stability of the connector module 100 such as lifting of the second connector 300 or separation from the first connector 200 may occur.

[0240] The tilt phenomenon of the second connector 300 may occur when the second connector 300 rotates around each axis such as rolling, yaw and pitch. Fig.24, there may be a rolling motion rotating around the x-axis, a pitching motion rotating around the y-axis, and a yaw motion rotating around the z-axis. In this case, the x-axis may be defined in a direction parallel to the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted. The y-axis may be defined in a direction perpendicular to the x-axis and parallel to the ground. The z-axis may be defined in a direction perpendicular to the ground and thus perpendicular to the x-axis and the y-axis.

[0241] A structure may be needed to prevent such rotational movement and improve the coupling stability of the second connector 300 .

[0242] Fig.31 is an enlarged view illustrating the interior of a connector module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0243] refer to Fig.25 and Fig.31 The frame 321 may include a body of the frame 321 , and at least one of the first protrusion portion 321 - 1 or the second protrusion portion 321 - 2 protruding to one side from the body of the frame 321 .

[0244] The first protrusion portion 321-1 may be disposed to protrude toward the front side of the body of the frame 321 based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted. That is, the first protrusion portion 321-1 may be disposed to protrude toward the front side of the body of the frame 321 from the body of the frame 321 toward the x-axis direction (see FIG. Fig.24 ) extends and is inserted into the first connector 200. For example, the first connector 200 may further include a second recessed portion 220b recessed in front of the first recessed portion 220a, and the first protrusion portion 321-1 may be inserted into the second recessed portion 220b.

[0245] The second recessed portion 220b may be a portion that is recessed from the first recessed portion 220a toward the x-axis direction inside the first connector housing 220. In this case, when the second connector 300 is observed from its side surface based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted, the height of the first recessed portion 220a may be greater than the height of the second recessed portion 220b. That is, when the height of the first recessed portion 220a is E1 and the height of the second recessed portion 220b is E2, the conditional expression: E1>E2 may be satisfied. Correspondingly, when observed from the side surface, the height of the first protrusion portion 321-1 may be set to protrude from the main body of the frame 321 so as to be less than the height of the main body of the frame 321.

[0246] In addition, when the second connector 300 is observed from its side surface based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted, the second recessed portion 220b may include a first surface 220b-1, a second surface 220b-2, and a third surface 220b-3, wherein the first surface 220b-1 extends from the inner top surface of the first recessed portion 220a, the second surface 220b-2 has a side connected to the first surface 220b-1 and is positioned to define a front surface, and the third surface 220b-3 is connected to the other side of the second surface 220b-2 to define a bottom surface.

[0247] The first surface 220b-1 may be the top surface of the second recessed portion 220b. The second surface 220b-2 may be the innermost surface of the second recessed portion 220b, that is, the front surface. The second surface 220b-2 may be perpendicular to the first surface 220b-1. The third surface 220b-3 may define the bottom surface of the second recessed portion 220b and may be perpendicular to the second surface 220b-2. That is, the first surface 220b-1, the second surface 220b-2, and the third surface 220b-3 may be placed along the outer surface of the first protruding portion 321-1.

[0248] The first recessed portion 220a may include a support surface 220a-1 connected to the third surface 220b-3 to extend downward from the third surface 220b-3. That is, the support surface 220a-1 may be disposed below the first protruding portion 321-1.

[0249] The first surface 220b-1 may support the top surface of the first protrusion portion 321-1. The second surface 220b-2 may support the front surface of the first protrusion portion 321-1. The third surface 220b-3 may support the bottom surface of the first protrusion portion 321-1. The support surface 220a-1 may support the front surface of the frame 321, that is, the front surface of the main body of the frame 321.

[0250] According to this structure, the first protrusion portion 321-1 may be hooked with the second recessed portion 220b to restrict the rotational movement of the second connector 300. Specifically, the pitching movement of the rotation around the y-axis may be restricted.

[0251] In order to maximize the prevention of pitching motion, each surface of the first recessed portion 220a and the second recessed portion 220b may satisfy a specific conditional expression. For example, the length F1 of the support surface 220a-1 of the first recessed portion 220a may be 0.4mm to 0.6mm. When the length F1 of the support surface 220a-1 of the first recessed portion 220a is less than 0.4mm, the contact area between the support surface 220a-1 and the front surface of the frame 321 may be significantly narrowed, thereby reducing the support area for preventing pitching, and therefore, the pitching operation of the second connector 300 may not be effectively prevented. On the other hand, when the length F1 of the support surface 220a-1 of the first recessed portion 220a exceeds 0.6mm, there may be a risk of creating an undesirable conduction area during design by expanding an unnecessary conduction area.

[0252] In addition, the length F2 of the second surface 220b-2 of the second recessed portion may satisfy a specific conditional expression. For example, the length F2 of the second surface 220b-2 may be 0.9mm to 1.1mm. When the length F2 of the second surface 220b-2 is less than 0.9mm, the recess depth of the second recessed portion 220b may be small, which may reduce the effect of preventing tilting. On the other hand, when the length F2 of the second surface 220b-2 exceeds 1.1mm, the length of the first protrusion 321-1 may become longer compared to the thickness, and therefore, the problem that the first protrusion 321-1 is damaged due to the tilting phenomenon may occur.

[0253] Additionally, the first protrusion portion 321-1 may be disposed in a direction extending to each of both sides of the direction of insertion of the second connector 300. In other words, the first protrusion portion 321-1 may be disposed in a direction parallel to the y-axis direction. According to this structure, due to the shape of the first protrusion portion 321-1, in a state where the second connector 300 is inserted and coupled to the first connector 200, rolling of the second connector 300 may be prevented.

[0254] The second protrusion portion 321-2 may be disposed to protrude upward or downward from the body of the frame 321 based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted. For example, the second protrusion portion 321-2 may be disposed to protrude from the bottom surface of the body of the frame 321 in a direction toward the second conductive portion 310. Specifically, the second protrusion portion 321-2 may be disposed to protrude downward so as to be parallel to the z-axis direction.

[0255] refer to Fig. 9, the first connector 200 may further include a third recessed portion 220c, which is recessed upward or downward from the first recessed portion 220a based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted, and the second protrusion portion 321-2 may be inserted into the third recessed portion 220c. That is, the third recessed portion 220c may extend from the first recessed portion 220a along the z-axis direction.

[0256] When viewed from the x-axis direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted, the third recessed portion 220c may be disposed at each of the two sides of the first recessed portion 220a. Similarly, the second protrusion portion 321-2 may be disposed at each of the two sides of the frame 321 to correspond to the third recessed portion 220c.

[0257] Additionally, the third recessed portion 220c disposed at each of the two sides of the lower side of the first recessed portion 220a may have an inclined stepped structure. In other words, based on the x-axis direction, the outermost inner surface of the third recessed portion may include a stepped and inclined structure relative to the inner surface of the first recessed portion 220a.

[0258] According to this structure, the second protrusion portion 321-2 can be inserted and coupled to the third recessed portion 220c and then hooked with the third recessed portion 220c to limit the rotation of the second connector 300. Specifically, the lateral swing operation of the second connector 300 can be prevented by assembling the second protrusion portion 321-2. In order to maximize the above effect, the second protrusion portion 321-2 can extend in a longitudinal direction parallel to the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted.

[0259] [Topic 7]

[0260] <Structure for improving the fixing force of the first conductive part 210 and the second conductive part 310>

[0261] Fig.32 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the interior of a connector module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0262] refer to Fig.32 , the first conductive portion 210 may be electrically connected to only a single surface of the second conductive portion 310. In other words, the first conductive portion 210 may not be a structure surrounding the second conductive portion 310, but may be in contact with only one surface of the second conductive portion 310. For example, the first conductive portion 210 may be electrically connected to the second conductive portion 310 by contacting with the bottom surface of the second conductive portion 310 in a state of being placed through the first connector housing 220.

[0263] Specifically, refer to Fig.25 and Fig.28, the second connector 300 may be inserted and coupled to the recessed portion surrounded by the frame 321 and the connection portion 322, and the inner bottom surface of the frame 321 may be disposed opposite to the connection portion 322 based on the recessed portion, so that the inner bottom surface of the frame 321 supports the bottom surface of the second conductive portion 310. Here, referring to Fig.13a In other words, the plurality of holes 350-1 may be defined through the space between the comb-tooth structures 350, and the first conductive portion 210 may contact the bottom surface of the second conductive portion 310 through the holes 350-1 therethrough.

[0264] According to this structure, the first conductive portion 210 can be electrically connected by contacting only one surface of the second conductive portion 310 instead of both sides of the second conductive portion 310, and thus, the height of the coupling structure of the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310 can be reduced to reduce the overall height of the connector module 100. However, a problem of weakened contact force between the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310 may occur, and the connector module 100 may include a structure for preventing the weakened contact force problem from occurring.

[0265] The connection part 322 may contact the top surface of the second conductive part 310 to apply pressure to the top surface of the second conductive part 310, thereby strengthening the contact force between the first conductive part 210 and the second conductive part 310. For example, the front side of the connection part 322 may be fixedly connected to the top surface of the frame 321, and the rear side of the connection part 322 may be movable in an upward or downward direction. Here, the front side of the connection part 322 connected to the top surface of the frame 321 may include a ring structure, and an empty space is defined at the inside of the ring structure. That is, the connection part 322 may include an elastic material and be elastically deformed by allowing the rear side to move upward or downward through the ring structure.

[0266] Specifically, the connection portion 322 may include a contact portion 322-2 that contacts the top surface of the second conductive portion 310. Additionally, the connection portion 322 may include a connection portion 322-3 coupled to the first connector 200. In a state where the front side of the connection portion is connected to the front side of the contact portion 322-2, the connection portion 322-3 may extend backward based on the insertion direction of the second connector 300, and a portion of the connection portion 322-3 may be spaced apart from the contact portion 322-2 by a predetermined distance. The connection portion 322-3 may be coupled to the hole 230 defined to pass through the top surface of the first connector housing 220, or the coupling of the connection portion 322-3 may be released from the hole 230, and thus, the second connector 300 may be coupled to the first connector, or the coupling between the second connector 300 and the first connector 200 may be released.

[0267] More specifically, in a state where the contact portion 322-2 contacts the top surface of the second conductive portion 310 and the front side of the connection portion 322 is fixed, an external force may be applied to the rear top surface of the connection portion 322-3, so that by using the lever principle, the rear side of the connection portion 322-3 moves downward to approach the contact portion 322-2. In this process, after the second connector 300 is inserted into the first connector 200, the connection portion 322-3 may move upward again, and a portion of the top surface of the connection portion 322-3 may protrude to be fitted into a hole defined to pass through the top surface of the first connector housing 220, and thus, the second connector 300 may be connected to the first connector 200. The process of releasing the connection between the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 may be performed by a reverse operation. As a result, according to the structure of the connection portion 322, the second conductive portion 310 may be more firmly fixed by being fitted between the contact portion 322-2 and the first conductive portion 210.

[0268] Additionally, in order to further increase the fixing effect, each portion of the connection portion 322 may satisfy a specific conditional expression.

[0269] For example, when viewed from the side surface based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted and coupled, the height G1 of the contact portion 322-2 may be 0.6 mm to 1.5 mm. When the height G1 of the contact portion 322-2 is less than 0.6 mm, the thickness of the contact portion 322-2 may become too small, and thus, the function of the contact portion 322-2 to support the second conductive portion 310 to strengthen the fixing force of the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310 may be lost. On the contrary, when the height G1 of the contact portion 322-2 exceeds 1.5 mm, the thickness of the connection portion 322 itself may increase, thereby causing a problem of an increase in the total height of the connector module 100, and the separation distance between the contact portion 322-2 and the connection portion 322-3 may become too narrow, thereby causing a problem that the function of the connection portion 322 cannot be smoothly performed.

[0270] In addition, the length G2 of the contact portion 322-2 disposed along the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted and coupled and in contact with the second conductive portion 310 may be 1.8 mm to 2.1 mm. When the length G2 of the contact portion 322-2 in contact with the second conductive portion 310 is less than 1.8 mm, the contact force between the contact portion 322-2 and the second conductive portion 310 may be weakened, and thus, the function of the contact portion 322-2 to strengthen the fixing force of the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310 may be lost. On the other hand, when the length G2 of the contact portion 322-2 in contact with the second conductive portion 310 exceeds 2.1 mm, the separation space between the connection portion 322 and the second conductive portion 310 may be excessively invaded, and thus, the function of the connection portion 322 may be deteriorated.

[0271] Additionally, the spacing distance G3 between the contact portion 322-2 and the connection portion 322-3 may be 0.23 mm to 0.27 mm. If the spacing distance G3 between the contact portion 322-2 and the connection portion 322-3 is 0.23 mm or less, a problem of functional degradation of the connection portion 322 may occur. On the other hand, when the spacing distance G3 between the contact portion 322-2 and the connection portion 322-3 exceeds 0.27 mm, the thickness of the contact portion 322-2 and the connection portion 322-3 may become too thin, and a problem of the contact portion 322-2 and the connection portion 322-3 being easily damaged by external factors may occur.

[0272] When viewed from the side surface based on the direction in which the second connector 300 is inserted and coupled, the connection portion 322 may satisfy the conditional expression: 2.5≤G2 / G1≤3.5. In the case of the conditional expression: G2 / G1<2.5, the contact force between the contact portion 322-2 and the second conductive portion 310 is weakened, and thus, the function of the contact portion 322-2 to strengthen the fixing force of the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310 may be lost. On the other hand, in the case of the conditional expression: G2 / G1>3.5, the length may increase compared to the thickness to cause a problem of weakened strength of the contact portion 322-2, and thus, the contact portion 322-2 is easily damaged.

[0273] In addition, refer to Fig.31, when the length from the frontmost surface to the rearmost surface of the connection portion 322 is G5 and the length from the frontmost surface of the connection portion 322 to the rearmost surface of the contact portion 322-2 is G4, the conditional expression: 2≤G5 / G4≤2.5 may be satisfied. If the conditional expression: G5 / G4 is less than 2, the area of ​​the bottom surface of the contact portion 322-2 supporting the second conductive portion 310 may become small, and the application of the lever principle to the connection portion 322-3 may be insufficient, resulting in functional degradation of the connection portion 322. On the other hand, when the conditional expression: G5 / G4 exceeds 2.5, the connection portion 322 may occupy an excessive space inside the connector module 300, or the connection portion 322-3 may be hooked with the contact portion 322-2, and therefore, the separation distance between the connection portion 322-3 and the second conductive portion 310 may not be sufficiently ensured to cause a problem of deteriorated connection function.

[0274] Finally, reference Fig.31 In order for the connection portion 322-3 to effectively move downward to couple to the first connector housing 220 or release the coupling with the first connector housing 220, the rear bottom surface of the connection portion 322-3 may include an inclined surface 322-3a. Specifically, the inclined surface 322-3a may be disposed on the rear bottom surface of the connection portion 322-3 so that the distance between the connection portion 322-3 and the second conductive portion 310 increases as it moves toward the rear end of the connection portion 322-3. For example, the angle θ at which the inclined surface 322-3a is inclined relative to the extension line of the front bottom surface of the connection portion 322-3 may be 5 degrees to 8 degrees. When the inclination angle θ of the inclined surface 322-3a is less than 5 degrees, the separation distance between the rear bottom surface of the connection portion 322-3 and the second conductive portion 310 may not be properly ensured, and therefore, the connection function of the connection portion 322 may be deteriorated. On the other hand, when the inclination angle θ of the inclined surface 322 - 3 a is greater than 8 degrees, the thickness of the connection portion 322 - 3 may become too thin to cause a problem that the connection portion 322 - 3 is easily damaged and deformed due to external impact.

[0275] In this case, in order to space the connection portion 322 from the second conductive portion to more effectively perform the connection function, the spacing distance G6 between the last portion of the connection portion 322 and the second conductive portion may be 0.7 mm to 0.8 mm. In order to increase the fixing force and contact force between the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310, the coupling housing 400 may be configured to further fix the second conductive portion 310 to the second connector housing 320 through a coupling structure. The coupling housing 400 may include a coupling body 410 and a coupling portion 420.

[0276] The coupling portion 420 may be connected to one side of the coupling body 410 and may be coupled to a side surface of the second connector housing 320. For example, the coupling portion 420 may include a structure extending from each of both sides of the coupling body 410 to surround both sides of the second connector housing 320. That is, the coupling portion 420 may be disposed along both sides of the frame 321 and coupled to both sides of the frame 321.

[0277] The coupling portion 420 may be coupled to the side surface of the frame 321 through the ring structure 421. Specifically, one side of the coupling portion 420 may be connected to the coupling body 410, and the ring structure 421 may be disposed on the other end of the coupling portion 420. The ring structure 421 of the coupling portion 420 may be disposed along the side surface of the frame 321 and coupled to the lower side of the frame 321.

[0278] More specifically, the coupling portion 420 may include an inclined surface inclined toward the side surface of the frame 321, and the side surface of the frame 321 may include an inclined surface corresponding to the inclined surface of the coupling portion 420. The ring structure of the coupling portion 420 may be hooked with the side surface of the frame 321 by a sliding method in which the inclined surface of the coupling portion 420 moves along the inclined surface of the side surface of the frame 321. In other words, when the second conductive portion 310 is inserted into the frame 321, the coupling housing 400 may be coupled in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second conductive portion 310 is inserted, and the coupling housing 400 may be coupled so that the inclined surface of the coupling portion 420 moves along the inclined surface of the side surface of the frame 321, and thus, the ring structure 421 of the coupling portion 420 may be coupled to the lower side of the side surface of the frame 321.

[0279] As a result, the first conductive portion 210 can be in contact with only a single surface of the second conductive portion 310, and the fixing force of the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310 can be strengthened by the connection portion 322 and the coupling housing 400 to reduce the overall height of the connector module 100, thereby allowing the connector module 100 to more effectively occupy the space within the battery module. Specifically, the height H3 of the connector module 100 can be 3.5 mm to 4 mm. In other words, the height of the first connector 200 can be 3.5 mm to 4 mm.

[0280] [Topic 8]

[0281] Fig.33 1 is a schematic view illustrating a state in which a visual inspection is performed on a connector module 100 using a visual inspection apparatus 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment may be equally or similarly applied to this embodiment.

[0282] <Visual Inspection Apparatus 1000>

[0283] The visual inspection device 1000 can perform a visual inspection on the connector module 100 transferred in a predetermined transfer direction by the transfer device 1100. For example, the visual inspection device 1000 can be installed at a predetermined position to perform a visual inspection above the connector module 100 transferred along the transfer direction. As a specific example, when the connector module 100 is transferred along the transfer direction by a conveyor belt, the visual inspection device 1000 can be installed above the conveyor belt to perform a visual inspection on the upper part of the connector module 100. The above description is an example and is not limited thereto.

[0284] Fig.34 Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments The description of the previous embodiments may be applied to this embodiment in the same or similar manner.

[0285] <Connector inspection method>

[0286] According to operation S100 , the connector inspection method may include a connector preparation process.

[0287] The connector preparation process may be a process of preparing the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 , which is partially inserted into the accommodation space (or insertion space V) inside the first connector 200 .

[0288] The connector preparation process may include a process of preparing the first connector 200. The process of preparing the first connector 200 may be a process of preparing the first connector 200 including the first conductive portion 210 and provided with at least one hole 230 through which the accommodation space defined therein communicates with the outside.

[0289] The connector preparation process may include a process of preparing the second connector 300. The process of preparing the second connector 300 may be a process of preparing the second connector 300, which is inserted into the accommodation space (or the insertion space V) through the opening 220-1 of the first connector 200, is provided with the second conductive portion 310 electrically connected to the first conductive portion 210, and includes a connecting portion 322 installed and detachably coupled to the at least one hole 230.

[0290] According to operation S200 , the connector inspection method may include a connector installation process.

[0291] The connector mounting process may be a process of mounting the second connector 300 to the first connector 200 .

[0292] The connector installation process may include a hooking installation process, and the hooking installation process may include hooking the connection portion 322 on the at least one hole 230 to match the first conductive portion 210 and the second conductive portion 310 .

[0293] According to operation S300 , the connector inspection method may include a reference recognition process.

[0294] The reference recognition process may be performed in one direction of the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 .

[0295] The reference identification process may include a process of identifying a first reference line.

[0296] The process of identifying the first reference line may be a process of identifying the first reference line having a height difference compared with a surrounding area in the first connector 200 to serve as a standard for the visual inspection through visual inspection.

[0297] The reference identification process may include a process of identifying a second reference line.

[0298] The process of identifying the second reference line may be a process of identifying the second reference line for comparison with the first reference line in the second connector 300 through visual inspection.

[0299] The reference recognition process may include a process of performing a visual inspection in a direction transverse to the transfer direction during transfer of the installed first connector 200 and second connector 300 .

[0300] According to operation S400 , the connector inspection method may include an assembly distance determination process.

[0301] The assembly distance determination process may be a process of determining whether the assembly distance D from the first reference line to the second reference line is within a critical distance range. Critical distance range data used as a criterion for determining whether the distance is within the critical distance range may be predefined.

[0302] The assembly distance determination process may include a process of comparing pre-stored critical distance range data with the identified assembly distance D.

[0303] According to operation S500, the connector inspection method may include a process of determining whether it is properly installed.

[0304] The process of determining whether the device is properly installed may be a process of determining that the device is properly installed when it is determined that the assembly distance D is within a predetermined distance range.

[0305] The connector checking method may further include a notification providing process.

[0306] The notification providing process may be a process of providing a notification about the normal or abnormal installation to the user through a user interface after a process of determining whether the device is normally or abnormally installed.

[0307] According to the connector inspection method described above, it is possible to determine whether the connector is properly installed. Therefore, during the automatic assembly (or installation) process of the connector or connector module, it is possible to quickly and without error determine by visual inspection whether it has been properly installed.

[0308] Fig.35 1 is a perspective view of a connector module 100 subjected to visual inspection in a connector inspection method according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment may be equally or similarly applied to this embodiment.

[0309] The connector module 100 may include a first connector 200. The first connector 200 may be provided with a first conductive portion 210 and at least one hole 230 that allows an internal accommodation space V (or insertion space) to communicate with the outside.

[0310] The first connector 200 may be provided with a first reference line. The first reference line may have a height difference compared to the surrounding area to serve as a standard for visual inspection. For example, the first reference line may be an edge of a reference recessed area 220-2-1 formed by recessing a portion of an outer edge of the first connector 200. As another example, it may be an edge of the first connector 200.

[0311] The connector module 100 may include a second connector 300. The second connector 300 may be provided with a second conductive portion 310 that is inserted into the accommodation space V (or insertion space) through the opening 220-1 of the first connector 200 and electrically connected to the first conductive portion 210. The second connector 300 may be attached to and detached from the first connector 200 by hooking the connection portion 322 of the second connector 300 with at least one hole 230 of the first connector 200.

[0312] The second connector 300 may include a second reference line. The second reference line may be a line for comparison with the first reference line when performing a visual inspection.

[0313] Embodiments of the first reference line and the second reference line will be described later.

[0314] Fig.36 2 is a plan view of a reference line according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment can be applied to this embodiment identically or similarly.

[0315] A reference recessed area 220-2-1 may be formed in the first connector 200. The reference recessed area 220-2-1 may be formed by recessing a portion of an outer edge of the first connector 200 (or the first connector housing 200). The reference recessed area 220-2-1 may be a rectangular recessed area. The reference recessed area 220-2-1 may be an area formed adjacent to an edge of the first connector 200 opposite to a side into which the second connector 300 is inserted.

[0316] The first reference line S1 may be a line parallel to an edge of the reference recess region 220 - 2 - 1 into which the second connector 300 is inserted.

[0317] The second reference line S2 may be an edge of the second connector 300 that is parallel to the first reference line S1. Specifically, it may be an edge of the second connector 300 that faces an edge of the first connector 200.

[0318] The assembly distance D may be a distance between the first reference line S1 and the second reference line S2 .

[0319] Fig.37 2 is a plan view of a reference line according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment can be applied to this embodiment identically or similarly.

[0320] The first reference line S1 - 1 may be an edge of the at least one hole 230 opposite to the opening 220 - 1 .

[0321] The second reference line S2 - 1 may be an edge of the second connector 300 parallel to the first reference line S1 - 1 . Specifically, it may be an edge of the second connector 300 that faces an edge of the first connector 200 .

[0322] The assembly distance D1 may be a distance between the first reference line S1 - 1 and the second reference line S2 - 1 .

[0323] Fig.38 2 is a plan view of a reference line according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment can be applied to this embodiment identically or similarly.

[0324] The first reference line S1 - 2 may be an edge of the first connector 200 opposite to a side where the second connector 300 is inserted.

[0325] The second reference line S2 - 2 may be an edge of the second connector 300 parallel to the first reference line S1 - 2 . Specifically, it may be an edge of the second connector 300 that faces an edge of the first connector 200 .

[0326] The assembly distance D2 may be a distance between the first reference line S1 - 2 and the second reference line S2 - 2 .

[0327] Fig.39 2 is a plan view of a reference line according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment can be applied to this embodiment identically or similarly.

[0328] The first reference line S1 - 3 may be an edge of the at least one hole 230 opposite to the opening 220 - 1 .

[0329] The second reference line S2 - 3 may be an edge of the second connector 300 parallel to the first reference line S1 - 3 . Specifically, it may be an edge of the second connector 300 that faces an edge of the first connector 200 .

[0330] The assembly distance D3 may be a distance between the first reference line S1 - 3 and the second reference line S2 - 3 .

[0331] Fig.40 2 is a plan view of a reference line according to an embodiment of the present invention. The description of the previous embodiment can be applied to this embodiment identically or similarly.

[0332] The first reference line S1 - 4 may be an edge of the at least one hole 230 opposite to the opening 220 - 1 .

[0333] The second reference line S2-4 may be an edge of the second connector 300 that is parallel to the first reference line S1-4. Specifically, the second reference line S2-4 may be an edge of the second connector 300 that is opposite to the opening 220-1.

[0334] The assembly distance D4 may be a distance between the first reference line S1 - 4 and the second reference line S2 - 4 .

[0335] The embodiments of the first reference lines S1, S1-1, S1-2, S1-3 and S1-4 described above and the second reference lines S2, S2-1, S2-2, S2-3 and S2-4 described above are exemplary, and the first reference lines and the second reference lines for determining the assembly distance may be designed in various ways.

[0336] While embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0337] Description of Reference Numerals

[0338] 1: Battery module

[0339] 2: Multiple Batteries

[0340] 3: Shell

[0341] 3-1: Upper shell

[0342] 3-2: Side shell

[0343] 3-3: Lower shell

[0344] 10: Control unit

[0345] 11: Control PCB

[0346] 12: Control unit cover

[0347] 12-1: Cover recess

[0348] 13: PCB frame

[0349] 100: Connector module

[0350] 200: First connector

[0351] 210: First Conducting Section

[0352] 220: First connector housing

[0353] 220-1: Opening

[0354] 220-2: Upper part

[0355] 220-3: Side

[0356] 220-4: Lower part

[0357] 220-2-1: Reference concave area

[0358] 220a: First recessed portion

[0359] 220b: Second recessed portion

[0360] 220c: Third recessed portion

[0361] 221: Protrusion

[0362] 222: Main part

[0363] 223: Divider Wall

[0364] 224: Recessed Line

[0365] 225: Raised ribs

[0366] 226: Internal rib

[0367] 230: Hole

[0368] 300: Second connector

[0369] 310: Second Conducting Section

[0370] 311: Conductive film

[0371] 312: First folded section

[0372] 313: Second fold

[0373] 320: Second connector housing

[0374] 321: Framework

[0375] 321-1: First protrusion

[0376] 321-2: Second protrusion

[0377] 322: Connection

[0378] 322-1: Protrusion of the connection part

[0379] 322-2: Contact part

[0380] 322-3: Connection section

[0381] 340: Opening

[0382] 350: Comb structure

[0383] 360: Comb base

[0384] 400: Coupling housing

[0385] 410: Coupling body

[0386] 411: First coupling body

[0387] 412: Second coupling body

[0388] 410a: first surface of coupling body

[0389] 410b: Second surface of the coupling body

[0390] 410c: third surface of the coupling body

[0391] 420: coupling part

[0392] 430: Coupling pin

[0393] 1000: Visual inspection equipment

[0394] 1100: Transfer equipment

[0395] V: Insert space

[0396] DI: Insertion direction

Claims

1. A connector module, comprising: a first connector including a first connector housing and a first conductive portion coupled to the first connector housing; and a second connector, the second connector being coupled to the first connector, Wherein, the second connector comprises: a second connector housing including a frame inserted into and coupled to the first connector and a connection portion connected to one surface of the frame and coupled to the first connector; a second conductive portion, at least a portion of which is inserted into the frame and coupled to the frame to be electrically connected to the first conductive portion; and A coupling housing is configured to surround the second connector housing to couple the second connector housing to the second conducting portion and restrict separation of the connecting portion from the frame by a stepped structure contacting one surface of the connecting portion.

2. The connector module according to claim 1, wherein: The coupling housing comprises: a coupling body that contacts the second connector housing and the second conducting portion to couple the second connector housing to the second conducting portion; and A coupling portion is connected to one side of the coupling body and is coupled to a side surface of the second connector housing.

3. The connector module according to claim 2, wherein: The coupling body includes a stepped portion which contacts one surface of the connection portion and is provided in a stepped shape.

4. The connector module according to claim 3, wherein: In a state where the front side of the connecting portion is connected to the frame, the rear side of the connecting portion can be moved upward or downward, and In a state where the rear side of the connecting portion moves upward, the stepped portion is in contact with the rear side of the connecting portion.

5. The connector module according to claim 4, wherein: When viewed from the front side of the connecting portion, the stepped portion has: a first surface disposed above the connecting portion; a second surface, one side of which is connected to the lower side of the first surface and the second surface is in contact with the top surface of the connecting portion; and a third surface connected to the other side of the second surface and disposed along a side surface of the connecting portion, Wherein, the top surface of the connecting portion is placed below an extension line of the second surface.

6. The connector module according to claim 5, wherein: The connection portion is hooked with the second surface to restrict movement of the connection portion toward an upper side of the second surface.

7. The connector module according to claim 5, wherein: The connection portion is spaced apart from the second conductive portion by a predetermined distance.

8. The connector module according to claim 4, wherein: The stepped portion is disposed to correspond to at least one of both sides of the connecting portion.

9. The connector module according to claim 2, wherein: The coupling body comprises: a first coupling body disposed behind the connecting portion based on a direction in which the second connector is inserted into the first connector; and A second coupling body is disposed at each of both sides of the first coupling body to surround a portion of each of both sides of the connection portion.

10. The connector module according to claim 9, wherein: The connecting portion includes a protruding portion protruding upward on a top surface thereof, and A top surface of the first coupling body is positioned lower than a top surface of the protruding portion of the connection part.

11. The connector module according to claim 10, wherein: A distance between the top surface of the first coupling body and a top surface of the protruding portion of the connection part is 0.5 mm to 0.7 mm.

12. The connector module according to claim 9, wherein: When the height of the first coupling body is L1 and the height of the second coupling body is L2, the conditional expression: 0.3≤L1 / L2≤0.5 is satisfied.

13. The connector module according to claim 12, wherein: The height L1 of the first coupling body is 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm.

14. The connector module according to claim 2, wherein: The coupling portion is disposed at each of both sides of the coupling body to surround both sides of the second connector housing.

15. The connector module according to claim 14, wherein: The coupling portion is coupled to a side surface of the frame through a ring structure.

16. The connector module according to claim 15, wherein: The coupling portion includes an inclined surface inclined toward the side surface of the frame, and the side surface of the frame includes an inclined surface disposed to correspond to the inclined surface of the coupling portion, and The ring structure of the coupling portion is hooked with the side surface of the frame by a sliding manner in which the inclined surface of the coupling portion moves along the inclined surface of the side surface of the frame.

17. A battery module, comprising: a housing configured to define a housing space therein; a plurality of battery cells, the plurality of battery cells being accommodated in the accommodation space; a control unit configured to detect electrical signals of the plurality of battery cells so as to electrically control the plurality of battery cells; and The connector module according to claim 1, configured to electrically connect the plurality of battery cells to the control unit.

18. The battery module according to claim 17, wherein: The coupling housing comprises: a coupling body that contacts the second connector housing and the second conducting portion to couple the second connector housing to the second conducting portion and includes a stepped portion that contacts one surface of the connecting portion and is provided in a stepped shape; and A coupling portion is connected to one side of the coupling body and is coupled to one surface of the second connector housing.

19. The battery module according to claim 18, wherein: When viewed from the front side of the connecting portion, the stepped portion has: a first surface disposed above the connecting portion; a second surface having one side connected to the lower side of the first surface and in contact with a top surface of the connection portion; and a third surface connected to the other side of the second surface and disposed along a side surface of the connecting portion, Wherein, the top surface of the connecting portion is placed below an extension line of the second surface.

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