Battery pack and vehicle including the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery pack comprising: a plurality of battery modules, each battery module comprising a plurality of battery cells; a cooling tube assembly for supplying a cooling medium to each of the battery modules; and a plurality of insertion ports each connecting the battery module to the cooling tube assembly, in which each cooling tube assembly has: communication holes communicating with the insertion ports, the communication holes being provided for each insertion port, and the communication holes having different cross-sectional areas, the amount of the cooling medium supplied to each of the plurality of battery modules through the communication hole becomes equal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery pack and a vehicle including the same. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a battery pack capable of equalizing the flow rate of a cooling medium flowing into a battery module and a vehicle including the same.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0077599 filed in Korea on June 16, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0018004 filed in Korea on February 6, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0004] Secondary batteries, which are easy to apply according to product groups and have electrical characteristics such as high energy density, are generally used in electric vehicles (EV) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) driven by electric drive sources and portable devices. These secondary batteries have attracted much attention as new energy sources for improving eco-friendliness and energy efficiency due to the main advantage of greatly reducing the use of fossil fuels and another advantage of not generating byproducts due to energy use.

[0005] Currently, widely used secondary batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, etc. When a higher output voltage is required, a battery module or battery pack can be configured by connecting multiple battery cells in series. In addition, in order to increase the charge / discharge capacity, a battery module or battery pack can be configured by connecting multiple battery cells in parallel. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in the battery module or battery pack can be set in various ways depending on the required output voltage or charge / discharge capacity.

[0006] Furthermore, since the battery cells involve chemical reactions when charging and discharging, heat may be generated, and if the temperature quickly reaches the allowable temperature, the battery output may be limited, making it impossible to effectively use the battery pack.

[0007] Therefore, a battery module including a plurality of battery cells includes a heat sink to cool the battery cells generating heat. In addition, a battery pack including a plurality of battery modules supplies a cooling medium to the heat sink of each battery module when the battery cells generate heat, thereby lowering the temperature.

[0008] However, if the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into the radiators of each battery module is uneven, the cooling performance between each radiator is different, resulting in different temperatures between the battery modules. For example, if a small amount of cooling medium is introduced into the battery module, the temperature of the battery cells contained in the battery module reaches the allowable temperature faster, causing the battery cells to deteriorate faster than the battery cells contained in other battery modules. If there is a temperature difference between the battery cells due to the uneven flow rate of the cooling medium in each battery module, the lifespan of the battery cells is different, so that all battery cells cannot be used to their full performance.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need to develop a battery pack having a structure that can equalize the flow rate of a cooling medium flowing into the radiator of each battery module, thereby uniformly cooling the battery cells and minimizing the temperature difference between the battery cells. Summary of the invention

[0010] Technical issues

[0011] The present disclosure aims to solve the problems of the related art, and therefore the present disclosure aims to provide a battery pack and a vehicle including the battery pack, which can equalize the flow of cooling medium flowing into each battery module, thereby minimizing the temperature difference between battery cells or battery modules.

[0012] However, the technical problems that the present disclosure seeks to solve are not limited to the above problems, and other problems not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the present invention described below.

[0013] Technical Solution

[0014] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery pack is provided, which includes: a plurality of battery modules, which include a plurality of battery cells; a cooling pipe assembly, which is configured to supply a cooling medium to each battery module; and a plurality of insertion ports, which are configured to connect each battery module and the cooling pipe assembly to each other, wherein the cooling pipe assembly may have: a connecting hole, which is formed on each insertion port so as to communicate with the insertion port and has a cross-sectional area configured to be different from each other so that the flow rate of the cooling medium supplied to each battery module through the connecting hole is equal.

[0015] The cooling pipe assembly may include: a plurality of cooling pipes configured to allow a cooling medium to flow therethrough; and a plurality of connectors coupled to adjacent cooling pipes and the insertion port among the plurality of cooling pipes, and the connection holes may be configured to communicate with the respective connectors.

[0016] The battery pack according to the present disclosure may also include a battery pack housing configured to accommodate multiple battery modules and a cooling pipe assembly, and multiple connectors and multiple insertion ports may be arranged along one direction of the battery pack housing, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting hole may increase along one direction of the battery pack housing.

[0017] The cooling pipe assemblies can be arranged in pairs to face each other based on multiple battery modules, and the cooling pipe assemblies can also include: an inlet port, which is arranged on one side of the battery pack housing so that a cooling medium flows therethrough; and an outlet port, which is arranged to face the inlet port on one side of the battery pack housing and is configured to discharge the cooling medium, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting hole can increase as it moves away from the inlet port or the outlet port.

[0018] Each of the plurality of battery modules may further include a heat sink configured to cool the plurality of battery cells, and the insertion ports may be configured to connect the heat sink and the plurality of connectors, respectively.

[0019] Each of the multiple connectors may include: a port insertion part, into which the insertion port is inserted and the port insertion part has a connecting hole; and a tube insertion part, which is configured to communicate with the port insertion part and at least one cooling tube of the multiple cooling tubes is connected to the tube insertion part.

[0020] The insertion port may include a hook portion at least a portion of which protrudes outward and hooks on an end portion of the port insertion portion.

[0021] The insertion port may be coupled to the port insertion portion from bottom to top such that an end of the port insertion portion is supported on the hook portion.

[0022] The battery pack according to the present disclosure may further include an insertion tube inserted into the insertion port to change a cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole between the respective insertion ports.

[0023] The inner diameter of the insertion tube may become larger along one direction of the battery pack case.

[0024] The insertion tube may include: a body portion inserted into the insertion port; and a seating portion extending from the body portion to be seated on an end of the insertion port.

[0025] The insertion tube may include a guide protrusion at least a portion of which protrudes outward, and the insertion port may include a guide groove configured such that at least a portion thereof is recessed to correspond to the guide protrusion and such that the guide protrusion is slidably coupled to the guide groove.

[0026] The port insertion portion may include: a first connector hole, into which the insertion port is inserted so that an end of the insertion port is located within the first connector hole, and a second connector hole, which is defined as a portion extending from the first connector hole in an insertion direction of the insertion port, except for the first connector hole, and is configured to change the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole between the respective insertion ports.

[0027] A cross-sectional area of ​​the second connector hole may increase along one direction of the battery pack case.

[0028] The port insertion portion may further include a protrusion protruding inwardly from at least a portion of the second connector hole.

[0029] The length of the protrusion decreases along one direction of the battery pack case.

[0030] One or more protrusions may be provided, and the number of the protrusions may decrease along one direction of the battery pack case.

[0031] The distances between the protrusions may increase along one direction of the battery pack case.

[0032] Furthermore, the present disclosure provides a vehicle including the battery pack according to the present disclosure.

[0033] Technical Effects

[0034] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a cooling medium may be uniformly supplied to each battery module when the battery cells generate heat, thereby reducing the temperature of the battery cells and extending the life of the battery cells.

[0035] In addition, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, by equalizing the flow rate of the cooling medium supplied to each battery module, the temperature difference between the battery cells or the battery modules may be minimized, thereby maximizing the performance of the battery pack.

[0036] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, since a cooling medium is supplied to each battery module using an insertion port of the same size, it is easy to change the design and productivity can be improved when manufacturing a battery pack.

[0037] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, when manufacturing a battery pack, the possibility of confusion may be reduced when assembling a battery module into the battery pack, thereby improving assembly efficiency and reducing cost and time.

[0038] Furthermore, the present disclosure may have various other effects, and these will be described in each embodiment, or description of effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art will be omitted. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description of the present invention, are used to provide further understanding of the technical concept of the present disclosure; therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Figure 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of main elements of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Magnified view of part A in FIG.

[0044] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Magnified view of part B.

[0045] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A modified diagram of FIG. 1 , which illustrates an insertion tube included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Cross-sectional view in the XZ plane.

[0047] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure on an XZ plane.

[0048] Fig. 9 : is a figure which illustrates the modification of an insertion tube.

[0049] Fig.10 is a diagram illustrating another modified example of the insertion tube.

[0050] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, including a cross section of a connector included in the battery pack on an XY plane.

[0051] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 Cross-sectional view in the XZ plane.

[0052] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure on an XZ plane.

[0053] Fig.14is a perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, including a cross section of a connector included in the battery pack on an XY plane.

[0054] Fig.15 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terms used in the specification and the appended claims should not be interpreted as limited to the general and dictionary meanings, but are interpreted based on the meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure on the basis of the principle that the inventors are allowed to appropriately define the terms for the best description.

[0056] Therefore, the embodiments of this specification and the configurations proposed in the drawings only represent the most preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and do not represent all technical concepts of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications may be made thereto when an application is filed.

[0057] The dimensions of the various elements or specific parts of each element shown in the drawings are exaggerated, omitted or simplified for the convenience of description and clarification. Therefore, the dimensions of the various elements do not fully reflect their actual dimensions. The description of related known functions or configurations that may obscure the subject matter of the present disclosure will be omitted. For reference, in this specification, the terms indicating directions are based on the elements shown in the drawings and are relative terms that may vary depending on the posture or position of the actual elements.

[0058] In addition, although terms indicating directions (such as up, down, left, right, forward, and backward) are used in this specification, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that these terms are only for convenience of description and may vary depending on the position of the target object or the position of the observer.

[0059] For example, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, the X-axis direction shown in the figure may represent the horizontal direction or the front-to-back direction, the Y-axis direction may represent the left-right direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction on the horizontal plane (XY plane), and the Z-axis direction may represent the up-down direction (vertical direction) perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0060] Figure 1 is an overall perspective view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of main elements of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 3 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The enlarged view of part A in Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Magnified view of part B.

[0061] Reference Figures 1 to 5 , a battery pack 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a battery module 100 , a cooling pipe assembly 200 , and an insertion port 400 .

[0062] The battery module 100 may include a plurality of battery cells 110. Any type of secondary battery such as a square, cylindrical, or pouch-type battery cell may be applied to the battery cell 110, and Figure 3 As shown, this embodiment shows an example in which the battery cell 110 is configured as a cylindrical battery cell.

[0063] The plurality of battery cells 110 may be arranged in columns and rows within the battery module 100. For example, Figure 3 As shown, the plurality of battery cells 110 may be arranged side by side in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) and the up-down direction (Z-axis direction) while being laid flat in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction). In this case, the plurality of battery cells 110 may be electrically connected to each other. According to an embodiment, each of the plurality of battery modules 100 may include battery cells 110 arranged in two rows in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction).

[0064] A plurality of battery modules 100 including a plurality of battery cells 110 may be provided in the battery pack 10. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a plurality of battery modules 100 may be arranged side by side in a horizontal direction (X-axis direction).

[0065] In addition, refer to Figures 2 to 4 The cooling pipe assembly 200 may be configured to supply cooling medium to each battery module 100 .

[0066] Reference Figures 3 to 5 , the insertion port 400 may be configured to connect a plurality of battery modules 100 and the cooling pipe assembly 200 to each other. A plurality of insertion ports 400 may be provided to connect the individual battery modules 100 and the cooling pipe assembly 200. The insertion port 400 may be configured to be coupled to the cooling pipe assembly 200. Specifically, the insertion port 400 may be configured to be inserted into and coupled to the cooling pipe assembly 200. The insertion port 400 may be configured to communicate with the cooling pipe assembly 200 so that the cooling medium supplied from the cooling pipe assembly 200 may flow therethrough. Therefore, the cooling medium supplied from the cooling pipe assembly 200 may flow to the battery module 100 through the insertion port 400.

[0067] The insertion port 400 may be configured in a hollow shape including an outer wall and an inner wall. The outer diameter of the insertion port 400 may be the same as the inner diameter of the portion of the cooling pipe assembly 200 into which the insertion port 400 is inserted.

[0068] Reference Figure 5 In the case where the insertion port 400 is coupled to the cooling pipe assembly 200, a connection hole H may be formed in the cooling pipe assembly 200. The connection hole H may be defined as a portion where the cooling pipe assembly 200 communicates with the insertion port 400. Figure 5 In the embodiment, the connection hole H may be defined as an end of the insertion port 400. A connection hole H may be formed in each of the plurality of insertion ports 400.

[0069] The connection holes H may have cross-sectional areas different from each other so that the flow rate of the cooling medium supplied to each battery module 100 through the connection holes H is equal. The flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into one connection hole H is proportional to the product of the flow rate of the cooling medium at that position and the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H. The flow rate of the cooling medium in the connection hole H may vary depending on the position of the connection hole H in the battery pack 10. In this case, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H may be different between the positions to equalize the flow rate of the cooling medium regardless of the position inside the battery pack 10.

[0070] For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H may be configured to be different between the respective insertion ports 400. Here, the cross-sectional area may be defined as the cross-sectional area of ​​the battery pack 10 cut in the horizontal direction, that is, the cross-sectional area on the XY plane. That is, the diameter of the connection hole H may be configured to be different between the respective insertion ports 400. This is because the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H is proportional to the square of (diameter / 2) of the connection hole H.

[0071] That is, the diameters of the connection holes H communicating with the insertion ports 400 provided in the plurality of battery modules 100 may be configured to be different from each other so that the flow rate of the cooling medium supplied to each battery module 100 is equal. According to this implementation configuration, the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into each battery module 100 may be adjusted so that the cooling medium may be evenly distributed to each battery module 100.

[0072] In this case, the outer diameter of the insertion port 400 may be kept constant even if the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H is different. As a result, when the cooling medium flows into the insertion port 400 through the connection hole H, the insertion port 400 may maintain a coupled state with the cooling pipe assembly 200 .

[0073] According to the above implementation configuration of the present disclosure, when the battery cells 110 generate heat, the cooling medium flowing into the respective battery modules 100 may be evenly distributed, thereby reducing the temperature of the battery cells 110 and extending the life of the battery cells 110 .

[0074] In addition, according to the implementation configuration of the present disclosure, by equalizing the flow rate of the cooling medium supplied to each battery module 100 , the temperature difference between the battery modules 100 can be minimized, thereby maximizing the performance of the battery pack 10 .

[0075] In addition, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the battery module 100 may include a module frame 120 to maintain the plurality of battery cells 110 as a single unit. The module frame 120 may be configured to maintain a distance between the battery cells 110. The module frame 120 may be made of, for example, a metal material or a plastic material. The module frame 120 may have holes into which the plurality of battery cells 110 are inserted.

[0076] The module frame 120 may include a module top frame 121 and a module bottom frame 122 .

[0077] The module top frame 121 may maintain a distance between the battery cells 110 at the tops of the plurality of battery cells 110. The module top frame 121 may have holes into which upper portions of the plurality of battery cells 110 are inserted.

[0078] In addition, the plurality of battery cells 110 may be mounted to the module bottom frame 122. The module bottom frame 122 may be disposed at the bottom of the plurality of battery cells 110 so that the plurality of battery cells 110 are mounted and fixed to the module bottom frame 122. The module bottom frame 122 may have a structure in which lower portions of the plurality of battery cells 110 are inserted.

[0079] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in one battery module 100 , two module bottom frames 122 may be provided to face each other.

[0080] In addition, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cooling pipe assembly 200 may include a cooling pipe 210 and a connector 220 .

[0081] The cooling pipe 210 may be configured to have a hollow structure so that a cooling medium can flow therethrough. A plurality of cooling pipes 210 may be provided and disposed on both sides of a plurality of battery modules 100. In addition, a plurality of cooling pipes 210 may be arranged in a row. For example, Figure 3As shown, the plurality of cooling pipes 210 may be configured as pipes having a “-” shape and arranged in a row along the front-rear direction (X-axis direction), and may be disposed to face each other at both sides of the plurality of battery modules 100 .

[0082] The connector 220 may be configured such that two adjacent cooling tubes 210 among the plurality of cooling tubes 210 are coupled thereto. In addition, the connector 220 may be configured to be coupled to the insertion port 400. That is, the connector 220 may be configured to be coupled to at least one cooling tube 210 and the insertion port 400.

[0083] A plurality of connectors 220 may be provided and arranged in a row. In addition, the connectors 220 may be provided on both sides of the plurality of battery modules 100. For example, Figure 3 As shown, the plurality of cooling pipes 210 may be arranged in a row in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction), and may be disposed to face each other at both sides of the plurality of battery modules 100 .

[0084] The connection holes H may be configured so that the plurality of connectors 220 are respectively communicated with the plurality of insertion ports 400. That is, the connection holes H may be formed at portions of the plurality of connectors 220 that are respectively coupled to the insertion ports 400. In this case, the cross-sectional areas of the connection holes H may be configured to be different so that the amount of cooling medium flowing out of the connectors 220 is equal.

[0085] According to the above implementation configuration, even if the inner diameters of the insertion ports 400 inserted into the connectors 220 are the same, by configuring the cross-sectional areas of the connection holes H to be different from each other, the flow rates of the cooling medium flowing into the respective battery modules 100 can be made equal. As a result, the insertion ports 400 having a specific size can be used for each battery module 100, thereby facilitating design changes and improving productivity.

[0086] In addition, Figures 1 to 3 In the illustrated implementation configuration, the battery pack 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a battery pack housing 300 .

[0087] The battery pack case 300 may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery modules 100 and a cooling pipe assembly 200. To this end, the battery pack case 300 may include a case frame 310 including a rectangular bottom surface forming a lower surface of the battery pack case 300 and having a plurality of battery modules 100 mounted thereon, and a side surface extending upward from an edge of the bottom surface to surround the plurality of battery modules 100. For example, in the present embodiment configuration, the bottom surface may be configured as a substantially rectangular plate, and the side surface may include walls in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0088] In addition, the pack case 300 may include a pack cover 320 configured to cover the top of the case frame 310 .

[0089] A plurality of connectors 220 and insertion ports 400 may be arranged along one direction of the battery pack housing 300. For example, Figure 3 As shown, one direction of the battery pack housing 300 may be defined as a +X axis direction.

[0090] The cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H may increase along one direction of the battery pack housing 300. Figure 3 As shown, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H may increase toward the +X axis direction. That is, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H disposed on one side of the battery pack case 300 may be greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H disposed on the other side of the battery pack case 300.

[0091] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the cooling pipe assemblies 200 may be arranged in pairs so as to face each other based on a plurality of battery modules 100. For example, as in Figure 3 In the illustrated implementation configuration, the plurality of cooling pipes 210 and the connectors 220 may be disposed to face each other on both sides of the plurality of battery modules 100 to be symmetrical to each other about the Y-axis.

[0092] The cooling pipe assembly 200 may include an inlet port 230 and an outlet port 240. Both the inlet port 230 and the outlet port 240 may be disposed on one side of the battery pack housing 300, such as the front side. The inlet port 230 may be configured to allow a cooling medium to flow therein. The outlet port 240 may be disposed to face the inlet port 230. The outlet port 240 may be configured to discharge the cooling medium. The inlet port 230 and the outlet port 240 may be disposed to communicate with the cooling pipe 210.

[0093] In addition, the pack case 300 may include an inlet I through which a cooling medium is introduced from the outside and an outlet O through which the cooling medium is discharged to the outside. The inlet I and the outlet O may be configured to be connected to the inlet port 230 and the outlet port 240, respectively.

[0094] The cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H may increase as it moves away from the inlet port 230 or the outlet port 240. For example, Figure 3 As shown, the inlet port 230 and the outlet port 240 may be disposed on one side (eg, the front side) of the pack case 300 , and the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H may be configured to increase toward one direction (+X axis direction) of the pack case 300 .

[0095] In the case where the insertion port 400 has the same inner diameter, the farther the battery module 100 is from the inlet port I or the outlet port O of the battery pack housing 300, the slower the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into the battery module 100 becomes, so that the flow rate gradually decreases. According to the implementation configuration of the present disclosure, since the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H becomes larger as it is away from the inlet port 230 or the outlet port 240, the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into each battery module 100 can be equalized regardless of the distance between each battery module 100 and the inlet port I or the outlet O. As a result, the temperature difference between the battery modules 100 can be minimized to improve the safety of the battery pack 10.

[0096] Reference Figure 4 , each of the plurality of battery modules 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a heat sink 130 .

[0097] The heat sink 130 may be configured to cool a plurality of battery cells 110 or battery modules 100. The heat sink 130 may be disposed between a plurality of module frames 120. For example, two module bottom frames 122 may be configured to be opposite to each other in one battery module 100, and the heat sink 130 may be disposed between the two module bottom frames 122. The heat sink 130 may be disposed closer to the bottom of the battery pack housing 300 than the top thereof. In this case, the insertion port 400 may be configured in an L shape to connect the heat sink 130 disposed at the bottom and the connector 220.

[0098] The insertion port 400 may be configured to connect the heat sink 130 and each of the plurality of connectors 220 so that the cooling medium flowing through the cooling pipe assembly 200 may flow into each battery module 100. According to this implementation configuration, the cooling medium may flow directly into the heat sink 130, thereby quickly lowering the temperature of each battery module 100 when heat is generated.

[0099] Reference Figure 5 , each of the plurality of connectors 220 may include a port insertion portion 221 and a tube insertion portion 222 .

[0100] The port insertion portion 221 may be configured such that the insertion port 400 is inserted therein. An inner diameter of the port insertion portion 221 may be the same as or similar to an outer diameter of the insertion port 400.

[0101] The tube insertion portion 222 may be configured to communicate with the port insertion portion 221. The tube insertion portion 222 may be configured so that at least one of the plurality of cooling tubes 210 is coupled thereto. Specifically, the outer diameter portion of the tube insertion portion 222 may be inserted into the inner diameter portion of the cooling tube 210. In this case, the outer diameter of the tube insertion portion 222 may be greater than the inner diameter of the cooling tube 210, so that the cooling tube 210 may be inserted and press-fitted into the tube insertion portion 222. As a result, when the cooling medium flows through the cooling tube 210 and the tube insertion portion 222, leakage may be prevented.

[0102] In addition, for example, a plurality of cooling pipes 210 may be inserted into both ends of the pipe insertion portion 222. That is, the plurality of connectors 220 may be configured such that both at least one cooling pipe 210 and the insertion port 400 are coupled thereto. Figure 5 As shown, the connector 220 may be configured in a T shape such that the two cooling pipes 210 are inserted into both ends in the X-axis direction and such that the insertion port 400 is inserted thereinto in the Z-axis direction.

[0103] The port insertion portion 221 may have a connection hole H formed therein. That is, the connection hole H may be formed at a portion where the port insertion portion 221 and the insertion port 400 communicate with each other.

[0104] In addition, refer to Figure 5 , the insertion port 400 may include a hook portion 410. The hook portion 410 may be configured so that at least a portion of the outer wall of the insertion port 400 protrudes outward. The hook portion 410 may be configured to hook on the end of the port insertion portion 221. That is, the outer diameter of the hook portion 410 may be greater than the inner diameter of the port insertion portion 221. Therefore, when the insertion port 400 is inserted into the port insertion portion 221, the insertion depth may be adjusted.

[0105] According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, Figure 5 As shown, the insertion port 400 may be coupled to the port insertion portion 221 from bottom to top. When the insertion port 400 is coupled upward to the port insertion portion 221, the lower end of the port insertion portion 221 may be supported by the hook portion 410. According to this implementation configuration, the insertion port 400 may be inserted only to a certain depth into the port insertion portion 221 so that the cooling medium may smoothly flow into the insertion port 400 through the connection hole H.

[0106] Hereinafter, several embodiments will be described that can equalize the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into each battery module 100 by configuring the cross-sectional areas of the connection holes H to be different from each other and keeping the inner diameter of the insertion port 400 the same.

[0107] Figure 6 yes Figure 5, which illustrates an insertion tube included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The cross-sectional view in the XZ plane is Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure on an XZ plane.

[0108] According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the battery pack 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an insertion tube 500. The insertion tube 500 may be configured to be inserted into the insertion port 400. The insertion tube 500 may be configured as a tube having an outer wall and an inner wall. The outer diameter of the insertion tube 500 may be the same as or similar to the inner diameter of the insertion port 400.

[0109] The insertion tube 500 may be configured so that the connection hole H has different cross-sectional areas. In this case, the connection hole H may be formed at a portion where the connector 220 and the insertion tube 500 communicate with each other. The cross-sectional area of ​​the insertion tube 500 may be different between the respective insertion ports 400 into which the insertion tube 500 is inserted, so that the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing through the connection hole H is equalized. Even if the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H is different, the outer diameter of the insertion tube 500 may be the same. That is, the outer diameter or inner diameter of the insertion tube 500 inserted into the insertion port 400 is different, so that the connection hole H has different cross-sectional areas.

[0110] In addition, if Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the insertion tube 500 may be inserted downward (along the −Z-axis direction) from the top of the insertion port 400 .

[0111] According to this implementation configuration, since the cross-sectional area or inner diameter of the insertion tube 500 inserted into the insertion port 400 is configured to be different, the insertion port 400 can be manufactured to have the same size without changing the inner diameter of the insertion port 400 (regardless of the position of the individual battery modules 100), thereby minimizing the problem of module mixing during assembly and improving assembly efficiency.

[0112] In addition, according to the implementation configuration, after the battery module 100 and the insertion port 400 are assembled into the battery pack housing 300, the insertion tube 500 with a predetermined inner diameter can be inserted into the insertion port 400 according to the position of each battery module 100, thereby improving productivity when assembling the battery pack 10.

[0113] In the case of controlling the flow rate by changing the inner diameter of each insertion port 400, it is necessary to develop insertion ports 400 having various inner diameters, and the insertion ports 400 may be confused with each other when assembling the battery module 100 to the battery pack 10. According to the present disclosure, the insertion port 400 may be configured to have the same inner diameter instead of various inner diameters, and the insertion tubes 500 having different sizes may be inserted into the insertion port 400, thereby obtaining the effect of different cross-sectional areas of the connection hole H. In this case, after all the battery modules 100 are assembled into the battery pack housing 300, different insertion tubes 500 may be inserted into the insertion ports 400 of the respective battery modules 100, avoiding the problem of confusing the insertion tubes for the battery modules 100.

[0114] The inner diameter D of the insertion tube 500 may increase in one direction of the battery pack housing 300. That is, the inner diameter of the insertion tube 500 may increase in the +X axis direction. The +X axis direction may be defined as a direction away from the inlet I or the outlet O. Therefore, the diameter of the connection hole H may also increase in one direction of the battery pack housing 300. That is, the inner diameter of the insertion tube 500 may be configured to be the same as the diameter of the connection hole H.

[0115] Reference Figure 8 , the inner diameter D1 of the insertion tube 500 inserted into the insertion port 400 connected to the battery module 100 disposed closest to the inlet I or the outlet O may be the smallest. In addition, the inner diameter D3 of the insertion tube 500 inserted into the insertion port 400 connected to the battery module 100 disposed farthest from the inlet I or the outlet O may be greater than D1.

[0116] As the battery module 100 moves away from the inlet I or outlet O of the battery pack housing 300, the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into the battery module 100 may decrease. In the implementation configuration of the present disclosure, since the inner diameter of the insertion tube 500 increases as it moves away from the inlet I or outlet O, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H also increases, so that the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into each battery module 100 can be equalized.

[0117] Fig. 9 : is a figure which illustrates the modification of an insertion tube.

[0118] Reference Fig. 9 , the insertion tube 500 may include a main body portion 510 and a seating portion 520 .

[0119] The body portion 510 may be a portion inserted into the insertion port 400. The body portion 510 may be configured in the shape of a tube so that the outer diameter of the body portion 510 may be the same as the inner diameter of the insertion port 400. The inner diameter of the body portion 510 may increase along one direction of the battery pack case 300. That is, the inner diameter of the body portion 510 may increase toward the +X axis direction.

[0120] The placement portion 520 may extend from the body portion 510 and have a plate shape. The placement portion 520 may have a hole formed to allow the cooling medium to pass therethrough. The diameter of the hole may be the same as the inner diameter of the body portion 510. Therefore, when the insertion tube 500 is inserted into the insertion port 400, the connection hole H may be defined as the hole.

[0121] Reference Fig. 9 The seating portion 520 may be configured to extend from the upper portion of the body portion 510 in the outer diameter direction of the insertion port 400 and be seated on the upper end of the insertion port 400. Although the outer diameter of the seating portion 520 is greater than the diameter of the hole, it may not extend beyond the outermost wall of the insertion port 400.

[0122] Furthermore, the thickness of the seating portion 520 may be much smaller than that of the body portion 510. The thickness of the seating portion 520 may be kept constant even if the inner diameter of the body portion 510 differs between the respective insertion tubes 500. Therefore, the flow of the cooling medium from the connector 220 to the body portion 510 is not interrupted.

[0123] According to this implementation configuration, when the main body portion 510 of the insertion tube 500 is inserted into the insertion port 400, the seating portion 520 can be seated on the insertion port 400, so that the insertion depth of the main body portion 510 into the insertion port 400 can be determined. In addition, according to this implementation configuration, even if the insertion tube 500 is not correctly assembled into the insertion port 400, the insertion tube 500 can be easily removed by grasping the seating portion 520.

[0124] Fig.10 is a diagram illustrating another modified example of the insertion tube.

[0125] Reference Fig.10 , the insertion tube 500 may include a guide protrusion 530. The guide protrusion 530 may be formed on the outer wall of the insertion tube 500. Specifically, the guide protrusion 530 may be configured so that at least a portion of the outer wall of the insertion tube 500 protrudes outward. The guide protrusion 530 may be formed continuously or intermittently in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the insertion tube 500. For example, a plurality of guide protrusions 530 may be radially formed on the outer wall of the insertion tube 500. The length of the guide protrusion 530 may be less than the length of the insertion tube 500 inserted into the insertion port 400. For example, as in Fig.10 As implemented as shown, the guide protrusion 530 may be configured to be shorter than the length from the end of the insertion port 400 to the hook portion 410 .

[0126] In addition, the insertion port 400 may include a guide groove 420 into which the guide protrusion 530 is inserted. The guide groove 420 may be formed on the inner wall of the insertion port 400. Specifically, the guide groove 420 may be configured so that at least a portion of the inner wall of the insertion port 400 is recessed. The recessed depth and position of the guide groove 420 may be configured to correspond to those of the guide protrusion 530.

[0127] In addition, the guide groove 420 may be configured so that the guide protrusion 530 is slidably coupled thereto from above. The guide groove 420 may be continuously formed in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the insertion port 400. The guide groove 420 may be formed to correspond to a certain portion of the insertion port 400 in the longitudinal direction (that is, the length of the guide protrusion 530). In this case, the guide groove 420 may be provided with a stopper that supports the end of the guide protrusion 530.

[0128] According to this implementation configuration, when the insertion tube 500 is inserted into the insertion port 400 , the lower end of the guide protrusion 530 may contact the stopper of the guide groove 420 , thereby determining the insertion depth of the insertion tube 500 .

[0129] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, including a cross section of a connector included in the battery pack on an XY plane, Fig.12 yes Fig.11 The cross-sectional view in the XZ plane is Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure on an XZ plane.

[0130] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig.12 As shown, the port insertion portion 221 may have a first connector hole C1 and a second connector hole C2. The first connector hole C1 may be defined as a portion into which the insertion port 400 is inserted and where the end portion of the insertion port 400 is located. The second connector hole C2 may be provided at a portion extending from the first connector hole C1 in an insertion direction of the insertion port 400. The insertion port 400 is not inserted into the second connector hole C2, and the second connector hole C2 may be defined as the remaining portion of the port insertion portion 221 except for the first connector hole C1.

[0131] In this case, the connection hole H may be defined as a portion where the second connector hole C2 of the connector 220 and the insertion port 400 communicate with each other. That is, the connection hole H may be defined as the second connector hole C2. The second connector hole C2 may be configured such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H is different between the respective insertion ports 400. For example, Fig.13In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second connector hole C2 may increase along one direction of the battery pack housing 300. Therefore, the diameter of the connection hole H may also increase along one direction of the battery pack housing 300. That is, the inner diameter D′ of the second connector hole C2 may be configured to be the same as the diameter of the connection hole H.

[0132] The inner diameter D′ of the second connector hole C2 disposed on the other side of the battery pack case 300 may be larger than the inner diameter D′ of the second connector hole C2 disposed on one side of the battery pack case 300. Fig.13 As shown, the inner diameter D'1 of the second connector hole C2 formed in the connector 220 disposed closest to the inlet I or outlet O may be the smallest. In addition, the inner diameter D'3 of the second connector hole C2 formed in the connector 220 farthest from the inlet I or outlet O may be greater than D'1.

[0133] According to this implementation configuration, since the cross-sectional area or inner diameter D′ of the second connector hole C2 as a portion not inserted into the insertion port 400 is configured to be different, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H is also configured to be different, so the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into each battery module 100 can be equalized regardless of the position of each battery module 100. Therefore, since only the insertion port 400 of the same size needs to be manufactured without changing the outer diameter of the port insertion portion 221 of the connector 220 into which the insertion port 400 is inserted or the outer diameter and inner diameter of the insertion port 400, productivity can be improved. In addition, according to this implementation configuration, since the insertion port 400 only needs to be developed in one size, the design of the battery module 100 or the insertion port 400 can be easily changed.

[0134] As described above, in the present embodiment, the inner diameter D′ of the second connector hole C2 as a portion not inserted into the insertion port 400 may be configured differently, thereby obtaining the following effect: the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H is differently applied depending on the position of the battery module 100 in the battery pack 10 .

[0135] Specifically, the results of the actual analysis of the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into the radiator 130 of each battery module 100 are as follows. The flow analysis was performed using the commercial STAR-CCM+ program commonly used in CFD flow analysis. The 3D steady state and the 9.81 m / s in the -Z direction were considered. 2 The gravity of the battery module 100 is calculated and the achievable k-ε is applied as the turbulence model. Figure 2As shown in FIG. 1 , the total flow rate of the cooling medium is set to 10 LPM. That is, the uniform flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into each of the nine battery modules 100 must be 1.11 LPM (11.1%) obtained from 10 LPM / 9 to maximize the performance of the battery pack including the battery modules 100.

[0136] First, in the control example, assuming that the inner diameter D' of the second connector hole C2 of the connector 220 is all the same 14.15 mm, as a result of calculating the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into each battery module 100, starting from the battery module 100 arranged close to the inlet I or the outlet O, the amount of the cooling medium flowing into each battery module 100 is 16.5%, 14.5%, 12.8%, 11.3%, 10.3%, 9.4%, 8.7%, 8.3%, and 8.2% in sequence. In this case, the amount of the cooling medium gradually decreases from the battery module 100 arranged closest to the inlet I or the outlet O to the battery module 100 arranged farthest from the inlet I or the outlet O, resulting in uneven flow. In the control example, the flow difference, which is the difference between the maximum flow rate and the minimum flow rate, is 16.5%-8.2%=8.3% (0.83 LPM).

[0137] On the other hand, for example, in the case where the inner diameter D′ of the second connector hole C2 of the connector 220 increases to 5.8 mm, 6.3 mm, 6.8 mm, 7.3 mm, 8.3 mm, 9.3 mm, 11.5 mm, 12.5 mm, and 14.2 mm in order from the battery module 100 disposed close to the inlet I or the outlet O, as a result of calculating the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into each battery module 100, the amount of the cooling medium flowing into each battery module 100 is 11.0%, 11.1%, 11.3%, 11.1%, 11.6%, 11.5%, 11.2%, 10.7%, and 10.5%, respectively. In this case, unlike the control example, the amount of the cooling medium does not decrease from the battery module 100 disposed closest to the inlet I or the outlet O to the battery module 100 disposed farthest from the inlet I or the outlet O, thereby obtaining a uniform flow rate. As described above, the differentiated application of the inner diameter D' of the second connector hole C2 of the connector 220 corresponds to the present disclosure, and in this case, the flow difference is 11.6%-10.5%=1.1% (0.11 LPM). That is, since the flow difference of 1.1% according to the present disclosure in which the inner diameter D' of the second connector hole C2 of the connector 220 is differently applied is significantly smaller than the flow difference of 8.3% in the control example in which the inner diameter D' of the second connector hole C2 of the connector 220 is the same, the present disclosure can minimize the temperature difference between the battery modules 100.

[0138] Unlike actual flow analysis experiments, the inner diameter D′ of the second connector hole C2 of the connector 220 may be varied to further equalize the flow rate of the cooling medium flowing into each battery module 100 , and the optimal size may be found through flow analysis experiments.

[0139] Fig.14 is a perspective view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, including a cross section of a connector included in the battery pack on an XY plane.

[0140] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the port insertion portion 221 may further include a protrusion P. The protrusion P may be configured to protrude inward from at least a portion of the second connector hole C2. The protrusion P may be configured to be in a ring shape along the inner circumference of the second connector hole C2. Due to the provision of the protrusion P, the diameter or cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole H may be changed by the protrusion P without changing the inner diameter of the second connector hole C2 itself.

[0141] Specifically, the protrusion P may have a length protruding from the second connector hole C2, which gradually decreases in one direction of the battery pack housing 300. That is, the cross-sectional area blocked by the protrusion P in the second connector hole C2 may gradually decrease in one direction of the battery pack housing 300. Therefore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second connector hole C2 may increase in one direction of the battery pack housing 300. According to this configuration, the following effect may be achieved: the cross-sectional areas of the connection holes H are configured to be different, so that the flow rate of the cooling medium supplied to the plurality of battery modules 100 through the connection holes H is equal.

[0142] according to Fig.14 In the illustrated embodiment, one or more protrusions P may be provided. The protrusions P may be intermittently provided on the inner circumferential surface of the second connector hole C2. In a case where a plurality of protrusions P are configured and the areas of the plurality of protrusions P are the same, the number of protrusions P may be reduced in one direction of the battery pack housing 300. Alternatively, in a case where the areas of the plurality of protrusions P are the same, the gaps between the protrusions P may be increased in one direction of the battery pack housing 300. According to this configuration, the following effect may be achieved: the cross-sectional areas of the connection holes H are configured differently, so that the flow rate of the cooling medium supplied to the plurality of battery modules 100 through the connection holes H is equal.

[0143] Fig.15 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] Reference Fig.15The vehicle 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include one or more battery packs 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the vehicle 1 according to the present disclosure may be an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle 1 includes a four-wheel vehicle and a two-wheel vehicle. The vehicle 1 travels by receiving power from the battery pack 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0145] Since the battery pack 10 has the above-mentioned various effects, the vehicle 1 including the battery pack 10 can also have these effects. Specifically, the battery pack 10 can reduce the temperature of the battery cell 110 by uniformly supplying a cooling medium to each battery module 100 when the battery cell 110 generates heat. In addition, the temperature difference between the battery cells 110 or the battery modules 100 can be minimized. The battery pack 10 can be used without limiting the battery output due to some battery cells 110 quickly reaching the allowable temperature. Therefore, all the battery cells 110 in the battery pack 10 can be used at maximum performance, and the service life of the battery pack 10 can be extended to extend the replacement cycle, thereby facilitating the maintenance of the vehicle 1 including the battery pack 10.

[0146] As described above, although the present disclosure has been described with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs may make various modifications and variations within the technical concept of the present disclosure and the equivalent scope of the claims to be described below.

Claims

1. A battery pack, comprising: A plurality of battery modules, each of which comprises a plurality of battery cells; a cooling tube assembly configured to supply a cooling medium to each battery module; as well as a plurality of insertion ports configured to connect the respective battery modules and the cooling pipe assembly to each other, Wherein, the cooling pipe assembly comprises: A connection hole is formed on each of the insertion ports so as to communicate with the insertion ports and has a cross-sectional area configured to be different from each other so that a flow rate of a cooling medium supplied to each of the battery modules through the connection hole is equalized.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, in, The cooling tube assembly comprises: a plurality of cooling tubes configured to allow the cooling medium to flow therethrough; and a plurality of connectors coupled to adjacent cooling tubes among the plurality of cooling tubes and the insertion port, and Wherein, the connection hole is configured to communicate with each connector.

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, further comprising: a battery pack housing configured to accommodate the plurality of battery modules and the cooling tube assembly, wherein the plurality of connectors and the plurality of insertion ports are arranged along one direction of the battery pack housing, and Wherein, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole increases along one direction of the battery pack housing.

4. The battery pack according to claim 3, in, The cooling pipe assemblies are arranged in pairs to face each other based on the plurality of battery modules, and The cooling pipe assembly further includes: an inlet port disposed on one side of the battery pack housing so that the cooling medium flows therethrough; and an outlet port disposed on one side of the battery pack housing facing the inlet port and configured to discharge the cooling medium, and Wherein, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting hole increases as it is away from the inlet port or the outlet port.

5. The battery pack according to claim 2, in, Each of the plurality of battery modules further includes a heat sink configured to cool the plurality of battery cells, and Wherein, the insertion port is configured to connect the heat sink and the plurality of connectors respectively.

6. The battery pack according to claim 3, in, Each of the plurality of connectors comprises: a port insertion portion into which the insertion port is inserted and which has the connection hole; and a tube insertion portion configured to communicate with the port insertion portion and to which at least one cooling tube of the plurality of cooling tubes is coupled.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, in, The insertion port comprises: A hook portion at least a portion of which protrudes outward and is hooked on an end portion of the port insertion portion.

8. The battery pack according to claim 7, in, The insertion port is coupled to the port insertion portion from bottom to top so that the end of the port insertion portion is supported on the hook portion.

9. The battery pack according to claim 3, The battery pack further includes an insertion tube inserted into the insertion ports to change the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole between the respective insertion ports.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, in, The inner diameter of the insertion tube increases along one direction of the battery pack case.

11. The battery pack according to claim 9, in, The insertion tube comprises: a main body portion that is inserted into the insertion port; and A seating portion extends from the body portion to be seated on an end portion of the insertion port.

12. The battery pack according to claim 9, in, The insertion tube includes a guide protrusion, at least a portion of which protrudes outward, and Wherein, the insertion port includes a guide groove configured such that at least a portion thereof is recessed to correspond to the guide protrusion and such that the guide protrusion is slidably coupled to the guide groove.

13. The battery pack according to claim 6, in, The port insertion portion comprises: a first connector hole into which the insertion port is inserted so that an end of the insertion port is located within the first connector hole; and A second connector hole is defined as a portion extending from the first connector hole in an insertion direction of the insertion port except for the first connector hole and is configured to change the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection hole between respective insertion ports.

14. The battery pack according to claim 13, in, A cross-sectional area of ​​the second connector hole increases along one direction of the battery pack case.

15. The battery pack according to claim 13, in, The port insertion portion also includes a protrusion that protrudes inwardly from at least a portion of the second connector hole.

16. The battery pack according to claim 15, in, The length of the protrusion decreases along one direction of the battery pack case.

17. The battery pack according to claim 15, in, One or more protrusions are provided, and Wherein, the number of the protrusions decreases along one direction of the battery pack housing.

18. The battery pack according to claim 15, in, The protrusion is configured to be supported by the end of the insertion port.

19. A vehicle comprising a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

Images