Battery pack

Abstract

A battery pack includes a plurality of battery cells, a holder accommodating the plurality of battery cells therein, a connector connected to the plurality of battery cells, a case surrounding the holder, the case being flexible and including a first communication hole, and a support on the holder, the housing is engaged with the holder inserted therein and the connector pulled out from the housing, and the support includes a second communication hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One or more embodiments relate to a battery pack. Background Art

[0002] A secondary battery is a battery designed to be rechargeable and can be used as an energy source for mobile devices, electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, electric bicycles, and uninterruptible power supplies. Depending on the type of external device to which the secondary battery is applied, the secondary battery can be used in the form of a single battery cell or in the form of a module or a group in which a plurality of battery cells are connected and bundled into one unit.

[0003] The information disclosed in the background art of the present disclosure is only for facilitating the understanding of the background of the present disclosure, and thus may include information that does not constitute the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one or more embodiments, a battery pack includes a plurality of battery cells, a holder that houses the plurality of battery cells, a connector connected to the plurality of battery cells, a housing that surrounds the holder, and a support on the holder. The housing is flexible and includes a first communication hole. The housing is engaged in a state where the holder is inserted therein and the connector is pulled out from the housing. The support includes a second communication hole.

[0005] The housing may include a main body that surrounds the holder, an opening at the top of the main body and in fluid communication with the main body, and wings on the outer side of the main body. The holder is inserted into the main body through the opening. The opening is engaged and has opposite sides connected to each other. The opening is engaged in a direction that spaces the wings apart from each other.

[0006] The opening may be engaged in a direction that moves a pair of wings away from each other.

[0007] A pair of wings may be formed to face each other on one side and the other side of the main body. The opening may include a plurality of edges and may be engaged such that the edges not connected to the pair of wings are close to each other.

[0008] The housing may include a joint portion around the perimeter of the main body, and the housing may be joined along the joint portion.

[0009] A pair of wings may not be joined to each other, and a plurality of surfaces of the main body corresponding to the joint portion are joined to each other.

[0010] Among the joint portions, the portion of the joint portion through which the connector passes may be joined by using an adhesive instead of heat fusion, and the remaining portions of the joint portion are joined by heat fusion.

[0011] The support member may include a main frame on the retainer, and a protrusion formed on the main frame and including a receiving portion communicating with a second communication hole and an inlet opening fluidly communicating with the receiving portion.

[0012] The main frame may be at an end of the retainer in the height direction of the retainer, and the protrusion may extend from the center in the longitudinal direction of the retainer.

[0013] The inlet opening may be open toward the edge of the retainer.

[0014] The length of the inlet opening may be greater than the length of the second communication hole, and the depth of the receiving portion may be greater than the height of the main frame.

[0015] The flow direction of the air flowing into the second communication hole and the flow direction of the air flowing out of the receiving portion may be different from each other.

[0016] The support member may further include ribs extending from one surface of the retainer and connected to the main frame, wherein the ribs may be on both sides of the protrusion and together with the protrusion define the receiving portion on the inner side.

[0017] The support member may include an upper support member mounted on one edge of the side portion of the retainer and a lower support member including the second communication hole.

[0018] In a state where the housing surrounds the retainer, the first communication hole and the second communication hole may be at corresponding positions.

[0019] The center of the first communication hole may be inside the second communication hole, and the area of the first communication hole may be smaller than the area of the second communication hole.

[0020] The second communication hole may include a plurality of slits having a long hole shape.

[0021] The plurality of slits may be parallel to the longitudinal direction of the retainer and may be spaced apart from each other in the height direction of the retainer.

[0022] The battery pack may further include a cover including a material that allows air to pass through and is waterproof and breathable and attached to the housing corresponding to the first communication hole.

[0023] The cover may include a small-diameter portion and a large-diameter portion, the small-diameter portion including a material that allows air to pass through and is waterproof and breathable, and the large-diameter portion being attached to the housing so as not to cover the first communication hole. Description of the Drawings

[0024] By describing the exemplary embodiments in detail with reference to the drawings, the features will become apparent to those skilled in the art, wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 is a view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment;

[0026] Figure 2 is a view showing the state in which the retainer is inserted into the housing;

[0027] Figure 3 is a view showing an exploded perspective view of the retainer according to an embodiment;

[0028] Figure 4 is a view showing a side view of the retainer;

[0029] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the support member according to an embodiment;

[0030] Figure 6 is a view showing the periphery of the first communication hole of the support member;

[0031] Figure 7 and Figure 8 is a view showing the engaged state of the housing;

[0032] Figure 9 is a view showing a partially folded state of the housing after being engaged;

[0033] Figure 10 is a view showing a leakage test of the battery pack; and

[0034] Figure 11 is a view showing the state in which the leak - proof member is attached to the battery pack. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Now, embodiments will be described in detail, examples of which are shown in the drawings, where the same reference numerals always denote the same elements. In this regard, the present embodiments may have different forms and should not be construed as limited to the descriptions set forth herein. Therefore, the embodiments are described below only by referring to the drawings to explain various aspects of the present specification. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items. Expressions such as "at least one of..." modify the entire list of elements when following the list of elements, rather than individual elements of the list.

[0036] Some embodiments of the present disclosure and methods according thereto can be understood by referring to the detailed description of the exemplary embodiments and the drawings. The described embodiments can have various modifications and can be implemented in different forms, and are not limited to the embodiments described herein. Additionally, some or all of the features of the various embodiments of the present disclosure can be combined with each other. Each embodiment can be implemented independently or in combination with each other. The described embodiments are provided as examples so that the present disclosure is thorough and complete, and also aims to fully convey the spirit of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. The present disclosure is subject to all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, processes, elements, and techniques that are not necessary for those skilled in the art to fully understand the embodiments of the present disclosure may not be described.

[0037] Unless otherwise stated throughout the drawings and the specification, the same reference numerals, letters, or combinations thereof represent the same components, and thus repeated descriptions are omitted. Additionally, in order to clearly explain the present disclosure, parts or portions not relevant to the description are omitted.

[0038] In the drawings, for clarity of illustration, the dimensions of layers and regions may be exaggerated. It should also be understood that when a layer or element is referred to as being "on" another layer or substrate, it can be directly on the other layer or substrate, or an intermediate layer may also be present. Further, it should be understood that when a layer is referred to as being "between" two layers, it can be the only layer between the two layers, or one or more intermediate layers may also be present.

[0039] In addition, the use of hatching and / or shading in the drawings is provided to clarify the boundaries between substantially adjacent elements. Thus, the presence or absence of hatching or shading does not indicate specific materials, material properties, dimensions, ratios, commonalities between the drawing elements, and / or other characteristics or properties of an unspecified element, as well as the desired form or requirements of the attributes, etc.

[0040] In the present disclosure, various embodiments are described with reference to cross-sectional examples, which are schematic diagrams of the embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Therefore, the appearance of the drawings can vary, for example, due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. The specific structural or functional descriptions disclosed in the specification are merely examples for explaining the embodiments according to the concepts of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present specification should not be construed as being limited to the shapes of the illustrated regions, and include, for example, shape deviations caused by manufacturing.

[0041] The regions shown in the drawings are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to be restrictive. Additionally, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

[0042] Numerous specific details are set forth in the specification in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments. However, the various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with one or more of these specific details included. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various embodiments.

[0043] As shown in the drawings, in order to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature, spatial relative terms such as "below", "above", "lower", "upper", etc. may be used. In addition to those shown in the drawings, the spatial relative terms are intended to include various orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawing is flipped, other elements or features described as "below" or "lower" may face "above" other elements or features. Thus, as illustrative terms, "downward" and "lower" may include both upward and downward directions. The device may be oriented in different directions (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other directions), and the spatial relative descriptions used in the present disclosure should be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, if a first part is described as being disposed "above" a second part, this means that the first part is disposed above or below the second part.

[0044] The expression "viewed from a plane" means viewing an object from above, and the expression "in a schematic cross-sectional view" means a schematic cross-section taken by vertically cutting the object. The term "viewed from the side" means that a first object may be above, below, or to the side of a second object, and vice versa. In addition, the terms "overlap" or "double" may include layers, stacks, surfaces, extensions, coverings, or partial coverings, or any other suitable terms that would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. The expression "do not overlap" may include meanings such as "spaced apart from" or "separated from", as well as any other suitable equivalents recognized and understood by those skilled in the art. The term "face" may mean that a first object may directly or indirectly face a second object. If there is a third object between the first object and the second object, the first object and the second object face each other, but it is understood that they face each other indirectly.

[0045] If an element, layer, region, or component is referred to as "formed", "connected", or "coupled" to another element, it can be said to be formed directly on a layer, region, or component; formed on another component, another layer, another region, or another part; or indirectly formed on, connected to, or coupled to another component. It can also be collectively referred to as the direct or indirect combination or connection, and the integral or non-integral combination or connection, of elements, layers, regions, or components, such that one or more elements, layers, regions, or components can exist. For example, if an element, layer, region, or component is referred to as "electrically connected" or "electrically coupled" to another element, layer, region, or component, this means that the element, layer, region, or component can be directly electrically connected or coupled, or there can be other elements, layers, regions, or components. However, "directly connected" or "directly coupled" means that one component is directly connected or combined with another component without an intermediate component. Additionally, in this specification, if a part of a layer, film, region, plate, etc. is formed in another part, the forming direction is not limited to the upward direction and includes the case where the part is formed on the side or bottom. Conversely, if a part of a layer, film, region, plate, etc. is formed "below" another part, it includes not only the case where the part is directly "below" the other part, but further includes the case where there is another part between the part and the other part. Other expressions describing the relationship between components, such as "between", "directly between", "adjacent to", and "immediately adjacent to", can be similarly interpreted. Additionally, if an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it can be the only element between the two elements or layers, or there can be other elements between them.

[0046] For the purposes of the specification, expressions such as "at least one or more" or "any one" do not limit the order of the respective elements. For example, "at least one of X, Y, and Z", "at least one of X, Y, or Z", "at least one selected from X, Y, and Z" can include X alone, Y alone, Z alone, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z. Similarly, expressions such as "at least one of A and B" and "at least one of A or B" can include A, B, or A and B. In this specification, the term "or" generally includes "and / or", and "and / or" includes any combination of one or more of the related listed items. For example, an expression such as "A and / or B" can include A, B, or A and B.

[0047] Although terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, such elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections are not limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another. In this regard, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, the first element, component, region, layer, or section described below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section. Describing an element as a "first" element does not require or imply the existence of a second element or another element. Terms such as "first", "second", etc. may be used herein to distinguish different categories or different groups of elements in the present disclosure. For clarity, terms such as "first", "second", etc. may respectively refer to "the first category (or the first group)", "the second category (or the second group)", etc.

[0048] The terms used in this application are only for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular terms are intended to include the plural terms, and the plural terms are also intended to include the singular. The terms "comprising", "providing", and "having" are intended to indicate the presence of the specified features, integers, or operations when used herein. These expressions do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other functions, steps, operations, components, and / or their groups.

[0049] If one or more embodiments can be implemented differently, a certain process sequence may be performed differently from the described order. For example, two processes described consecutively may be performed substantially simultaneously, or may be performed in an order opposite to the described order.

[0050] As used herein, the terms "substantially", "about", and similar terms are used in terms of approximation rather than degree, and are intended to account for the inherent variations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by a person of ordinary skill in the art. As used herein, the term "about" or "substantially" includes the stated value and represents within the allowable deviation range of a particular value determined by a person of ordinary skill in the art considering the corresponding measurement and associated errors (e.g., the deviation range caused by limitations of the measurement system). For example, the term "about" may represent within one or more standard deviations or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the specified value.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and / or this specification, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0052] Figure 1 FIG. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of the battery pack 10 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the holder 100 inserted into the housing 200 of the battery pack 10. Figure 3 FIG. 8 shows an exploded perspective view of the holder 100, and Figure 4 FIG. 10 shows a side view of the holder 100. Figure 5 FIG. 12 shows an enlarged view of the support member 300 of the holder 100. Figure 6 FIG. 14 shows the periphery of the second communication hole 330 of the support member 300. Figure 7 and Figure 8 FIG. 18 shows the engaged state of the housing 200. Figure 9 FIG. 20 shows a partially folded state of the housing 200 after the housing 200 is engaged. Figure 10 FIG. 22 shows a leakage test of the battery pack 10, and Figure 11 FIG. 24 shows the state where the cover 600 is attached to the battery pack 10.

[0053] Referring Figure 1 , the battery pack 10 can be a collection of a plurality of battery cells 500 connected in series / parallel, and can be included in large-scale applications (e.g., an energy storage system (ESS)) or small- and medium-scale applications (e.g., power tools and other electronic devices). The battery pack 10 can include waterproof and dustproof functions to prevent moisture or foreign objects from entering from the outside, thereby increasing its reliability and durability.

[0054] As Figure 1 shown, the battery pack 10 can include a holder 100, a housing 200, a support member 300, a connector 400, and at least one battery cell 500 (e.g., a plurality of battery cells 500).

[0055] The holder 100 can hold and support the battery cells 500. For example, as Figure 1 shown, a plurality of battery cells 500 can be inserted into the holder 100 and accommodated therein. The holder 100 can include openings 110 corresponding to the size and shape of the battery cells 500. For example, as Figure 3As shown, the holder 100 may include an opening 110 having a circular shape corresponding to a battery cell 500 having a cylindrical shape. The opening 110 may have the same number as the battery cell 500.

[0056] The holder 100 may include an upper holder 100a and a lower holder 100b. For example, as Figure 3 shown, the holder 100 may include an upper holder 100a above in the height direction of the holder 100 (e.g., Figure 3 the Z-axis direction in ) and a lower holder 100b below in the height direction of the holder 100. The upper holder 100a and the lower holder 100b have corresponding dimensions and shapes, and each of the upper holder 100a and the lower holder 100b may include an opening 110. The upper holder 100a and the lower holder 100b may be separated from each other and combined with each other, and each opening 110 may be combined with each other such that one battery cell 500 is inserted therein.

[0057] The support member 300 may be mounted on the holder 100. For example, the holder 100 may have an overall rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the support member 300 may be mounted on at least one of the opposite sides of the holder 100 (e.g., Figure 3 the side portion in the Y-axis direction of ). In addition, a connector 400 for connecting the battery pack 10 to another device may extend from the holder 100. For example, the connector 400 may extend from a side portion of the holder 100 other than the side portion on which the support member 300 is mounted.

[0058] The housing 200 may perform the waterproof and dustproof functions of the battery pack 10. For example, the housing 200 may surround the holder 100 to prevent moisture or foreign matter from penetrating from the outside into the holder 100 and the battery cell 500 inside the holder 100. The housing 200 may have a larger size than the holder 100 (e.g., a larger width and / or length), and may include an internal space for accommodating the holder 100 therein. In addition, a portion of the housing 200 where the holder 100 is inserted and removed is open (e.g., one side of the housing 200 through which the holder 100 is inserted into and removed from the housing 200 may be open), and the remaining portion may be completely closed.

[0059] The housing 200 may include a flexible material. For example, the housing 200 may include a textile material. For example, the housing 200 may include one or more materials selected from polyamide, ceramic fiber, cellulose fiber, woven fabric, and non-woven fabric. In some embodiments, the housing 200 may include a resin material. For example, the housing 200 may include one or more materials selected from polyimide, polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polytetrafluoroethylene, and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. In some embodiments, the housing 200 may include both a fiber material and a resin material, or one material may be coated on the other material. For example, the housing 200 may include polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

[0060] The housing 200 may be partially engaged when surrounding the retainer 100. For example, as Figure 2 shown, the open portion of the housing 200 may be engaged when the retainer 100 is received within the housing 200. In other words, referring Figure 2 and Figure 7 , opposite sides of the top of the housing 200 (e.g., the portion above the inserted retainer 100) may be pushed towards each other (e.g., in the Figure 2 Y-axis direction of Figure 7 shown) to engage with each other (e.g., being completely flat and flush with each other as

[0061] shown). For example, the open portion of the housing 200 may be joined using heat fusion or an adhesive, and when joining the housing 200, the connector 400 may be pulled out from the housing 200.

[0062] For example, as Figure 2As shown, the housing 200 may have a hexagonal column shape larger than the holder 100, and may have a length larger than the holder 100, and therefore, in a state where the holder 100 is inserted into the housing 200, the housing 200 may have a spare portion above the holder 100 (for example, the housing 200 may have an empty space above the holder 100). The housing 200 may have various shapes because the housing 200 includes a flexible material, and it is sufficient if an empty space can be formed in a state where the holder 100 is inserted into the housing 200. The spare portion of the housing 200 above the holder 100 may be joined or folded (for example, opposite sides of the housing 200 in the empty space above the holder 100 may be connected or folded to each other).

[0063] The housing 200 may include a body 210 , a wing portion 220 , an opening 230 , a coupling portion 240 , and a first communication hole 250 .

[0064] The body 210 may include an inner space into which the holder 100 is inserted, and may surround the holder 100. The body 210 may include an opening 230 on one side thereof so that the holder 100 is inserted and removed through the opening 230, and the rest of the body 210 except for the opening 230 may be closed. The body 210 may have a larger size (e.g., length and / or width) than the holder 100, and may have a shape corresponding to (e.g., surrounding or accommodating) the holder 100.

[0065] The wing 220 may be formed on the outside of the body 210. The wing 220 may extend from a face or edge of the body 210 (e.g., the wing 220 may extend away from the edge of the body 210 toward the outside of the body 210). For example, the wing 220 may extend along the entire length of the body 210 (e.g., along the Figure 1 The wing 220 may extend outward from the edge of the body 210 and may have a width smaller than the surface of the body 210. For example, a pair of wings 220 may be positioned to face each other (for example, a pair of wings 220 may be positioned on opposite sides of the body 210 and opposite sides of the opening 230 while being aligned with each other). For example, Figure 2 As shown, a pair of wings 220 may be symmetrically positioned in the height direction (eg, in the Z-axis direction) of the holder 100. In another example, the wings 220 may have a greater length (eg, in the X-axis direction) than the holder 100.

[0066] like Figure 2 and Figure 7As shown, the engaging portion 240 is an area in the main body 210 that is pushed toward each other and engaged with each other. If the engaging portions 240 are engaged with each other (for example, if the engaging portions 240 on the opposite sides of the housing 200 above the retainer 100 are pushed toward each other and engaged with each other), then the plurality of wing portions 220 can be pushed further away from each other. For example, as Figure 7 shown, when the engaging portions 240 are engaged with each other, a pair of wing portions 220 can be spaced apart in a direction facing each other (for example, in the Figure 7 Z-axis direction in

[0067] An opening 230 can be formed in the housing 200 and can be an entrance / exit through which the retainer 100 is inserted and removed. The opening 230 can be an area defined on the inner side of the main body 210 by the upper edge of the main body 210. For example, the opening 230 can be formed in the upper part of the housing 200 above the engaging portion 240. For example, the engaging portion 240 can be between the closed bottom of the housing 200 and the opening 230. Additionally, when the retainer 100 is inserted into the housing 200, the connector 400 can be pulled out of the housing 200 through the opening 230. If the retainer 100 is inserted into the housing 200, the opening 230 can be above the retainer 100, for example, relative to the closed bottom of the housing 200. The opening 230 can include a first edge 231 and a second edge 232.

[0068] Referring to Figure 2 , the first edge 231 can be the edge that contacts the wing portion 220. For example, as Figure 2 shown, the first edge 231 can be the edge adjacent to each wing portion 220, and two first edges 231 can correspond to one wing portion 220. In this regard, the first end of each of the two first edges 231 can be connected to one wing portion 220. And, the second end of each of the two first edges 231 can be connected to the second edge 232. If the housing 200 includes a pair of wing portions 220, there can be four first edges 231. The two first edges 231 adjacent to any one wing portion 220 can face the two first edges 231 adjacent to the other wing portion 220. If the engaging portions 240 are engaged with each other, the first edges 231 adjacent to the same wing portion 220 can contact each other or can be close to each other.

[0069] The second edge 232 does not contact the wing portion 220 and can be connected to the first edge 231. For example, as Figure 2 shown, the first end and the second end of the second edge 232 can be respectively connected to the two first edges 231 and can be between the two first edges 231. Except for the edge that contacts the wing portion 220 (for example, the first edge 231), all the edges of the opening 230 can be the second edge 232. For example, as Figure 2As shown, a pair of second edges 232 can face each other in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction in Figure 2 ). If the joints 240 are joined to each other, the second edges 232 facing each other can be in contact with each other or close to each other.

[0070] For example, as shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8 , if the joints 240 are joined to each other, the first edge 231 and the second edge 232 can be arranged in a line between a pair of wings 220 (e.g., the Z-axis direction). As shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the two first edges 231 can each be connected to the same wing 220, and thus, the four first edges 231 can overlap between the two wings 220. In addition, the two second edges 232 can be positioned between the first edges 231 by overlapping each other.

[0071] The joint 240 is an area where the main body 210 is joined, and can be formed continuously or discontinuously along the circumference of the main body 210. For example, as shown in Figure 2 , the joint 240 can be positioned below the opening 230 (e.g., the joint 240 can be between the top of the holder 100 and the opening 230), and can have a strip shape extending in the circumference of the main body 210. The joint 240 can be formed on the wing 220 or can replace the wing 220. In a state where the holder 100 is inserted into the housing 200, the opening 230 can be closed by joining the joint 240, for example, by using an adhesive, welding, or heat fusion. The joint 240 can include the same or different materials from the main body 210. For example, the corresponding different surfaces of the main body 210 can be joined along the joint 240 in a state where the different surfaces are in contact with each other (e.g., directly in contact). If the holder 100 is inserted into the housing 200, the top of the holder 100 can be positioned below the joint 240. The connector 400 can be pulled out of the housing 200 through the joined joint 240. The joint 240 can include a first part 241 and a second part 242.

[0072] The first part 241 can be a part joined by heat fusion or the like. For example, as shown in Figure 8 , the first part 241 can be adjacent to one of the wings 220. Moreover, the first part 241 can have a length corresponding to a part of the first edge 231 adjacent to one of the wings 220 and the second edge 232.

[0073] The second part 242 can be the part of the joint 240 corresponding to the connector 400. For example, as shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, in a state where the joint portion 240 is joined, the connector 400 is pulled out of the housing 200, and a part of the connector 400 (e.g., the wire 420) can pass through the second portion 242. The second portion 242 can be joined in the same manner as the first portion 241, or can be joined in a different manner. For example, the second portion 242 can be joined with an adhesive to prevent damage to the connector 400. In some embodiments, a portion of the second portion 242 that does not overlap with the connector 400 can be joined by heat fusion, and a portion that overlaps with the connector 400 can be joined by an adhesive. The second portion 242 can have a length that is less than the length of the first portion 241 (e.g., in the Z-axis direction). For example, as Figure 8 shown, the second portion 242 can be adjacent to one of the wings 220 that is not adjacent to the first portion 241. Additionally, the second portion 242 can have a length corresponding to a part of the first edge 231 adjacent to one of the wings 220.

[0074] The first communication hole 250 is a hole formed in the housing 200 and can be an inlet through which air flows through the nozzle N ( Figure 10 ) during a leak test. The first communication hole 250 can be below the joint portion 240 (e.g., below the longitudinal direction of the housing 200 in the X-axis direction of Figure 2 ). If the holder 100 is inserted into the housing 200, the first communication hole 250 can be positioned to correspond to the second communication hole 330.

[0075] The support member 300 is mounted on the holder 100 and can reduce the external impact applied to the holder 100. For example, one or more support members 300 can be formed on at least one side of both sides of the holder 100 (e.g., Figure 3 the side portions in the Y-axis direction of Figure 3 ). One support member 300 can be on each of the upper holder 100a and the lower holder 100b. The support member 300 can be adjacent to the edge of the holder 100. For example, the support member 300 can be adjacent to the upper edge and the lower edge of the holder 100 in the height direction of the holder 100 (e.g., the Z-axis direction in

[0076] ). The support member 300 can be positioned adjacent to the upper edge of the upper holder 100a and the lower edge of the lower holder 100b respectively. The support member 300 can protrude further than the side portion of the holder 100, and thus can protect the holder 100 by first absorbing the external impact applied to the holder 100.

[0076] The support member 300 can include a main frame 310, a protrusion 320, a second communication hole 330, and a rib 340.

[0077] The main frame 310 can hold and support other components of the support member 300 (e.g., the protrusion 320, the second communication hole 330, and the rib 340). The main frame 310 can be attached to the side of the holder 100 and can have a length corresponding to (e.g., equal to) the side of the holder 100. The main frame 310 can be in contact with the holder 100. The main frame 310 can be at the end of the holder 100 in the height direction of the holder 100 (e.g., in the Z-axis direction).

[0078] The protrusion 320 can extend from the main frame 310, and the second communication hole 330 can be formed on one surface of the protrusion 320. For example, as Figure 4 shown, the protrusion 320 can protrude upward in the height direction of the holder 100 (e.g., in the Figure 4 Z-axis direction) from the center of the main frame 310 in the longitudinal direction of the holder 100 (e.g., in the Figure 3 X-axis direction). For example, the protrusion 320 can be on the lower support member 300b and can protrude toward the upper support member 300a. The protrusion 320 can have the second communication hole 330 formed on one of its surfaces (e.g.,

[0079] the surface in the Y-axis direction). The protrusion 320 can be spaced apart from the side of the holder 100.

[0079] The protrusion 320 can include a pocket 321 and an opening 322.

[0080] The pocket 321 can be an empty space between the protrusion 320 and the side of the holder 100. For example, as Figure 6 shown, the pocket 321 is an area separated between the two ribs 340 and the protrusion 320 and can communicate with the second communication hole 330 (e.g., the pocket 321 and the second communication hole 330 can be in fluid communication with each other). The opening 322 can be formed on the entrance side of the pocket 321. For example, the opening 322 can be defined between the two ribs 340 and the protrusion 320. The opening 322 can be a channel through which air in the pocket 321 can flow. For example, the air injected into the pocket 321 through the second communication hole 330 can flow out of the pocket 321 through the opening 322.

[0081] The pocket 321 can have a depth D2 in the height direction of the battery pack 10 (e.g., in the Figure 6 Z-axis direction). The depth D2 can be greater than the height of the main frame 310. In addition, the opening 322 can have a length L2 in the longitudinal direction of the battery pack 10 (e.g., in the Figure 6 X-axis direction) and can have a width W2 in the width direction of the battery pack 10 (e.g., in the Figure 6 Y-axis direction). The length L2 can be greater than the length L1 of the slit 331.

[0082] The second communication hole 330 may be formed on one surface of the protrusion 320 and may communicate with the accommodation part 321. The second communication hole 330 may be an inlet through which air is injected from the nozzle N if a leakage test of the battery pack 10 is performed. For example, as Figure 10 shown, the leakage test of the battery pack 10 may be performed by injecting air into the nozzle N in a state where the first communication hole 250 of the housing 200 and the second communication hole 330 of the support 300 are positioned to correspond to each other (e.g., overlap). The injected air may pass through the first communication hole 250 and the second communication hole 330 ( Figure 10 ), move to the accommodation part 321 ( Figure 6 ), and then be introduced into the housing 200 through the opening 322 ( Figure 6 ). In this state, after a certain period of time, the internal pressure of the housing 200 may be measured to confirm whether the housing 200 is properly sealed, and the leakage test of the battery pack 10 may be performed.

[0083] The second communication hole 330 may include a slit 331. One or more slits 331 may be formed on one surface of the protrusion 320. For example, as Figure 5 shown, each of the slits 331 may have an elongated hole shape in the longitudinal direction of the battery pack 10 (e.g., in the X-axis direction in Figure 5 ). A plurality of slits 331 may be spaced apart in the height direction of the battery pack 10 (e.g., in the Z-axis direction in Figure 5 ). Each slit 331 may have a length L1 and a height h. A region extending along the contour of the plurality of slits 331 may form the second communication hole 330 (e.g., the second communication hole 330 may include a region or area including all of the plurality of slits 331). The second communication hole 330 may have a length L1 and a height H. For example, as Figure 5 shown, five slits 331 may be formed. In another example, any suitable number of slits 331 may be formed, e.g., four or less or six or more.

[0084] The area of the second communication hole 330 may be larger than the area of the first communication hole 250. For example, the area of the first communication hole 250 may be in the range of about 30% to about 80% of the area of the second communication hole 330. If the area ratio is less than 30%, an insufficient amount of air may not be injected from the first communication hole 250 to the second communication hole 330, and if the first communication hole 250 and the second communication hole 330 are not properly connected, the air may not flow smoothly into the housing 200. If the area ratio exceeds 80%, a large amount of air leaving the second communication hole 330 to the first communication hole 250 during the leakage test, so a smooth leakage test may be difficult.

[0085] In a state where the housing 200 surrounds the retainer 100, the first communication hole 250 and the second communication hole 330 may be in positions corresponding to each other (e.g., overlapping) (see Figure 2 ). For example, at least a part of the first communication hole 250 may overlap with the second communication hole 330. For example, the center of the first communication hole 250 may be inside the second communication hole 330 (e.g., may overlap with the center of the second communication hole 330).

[0086] The direction of the air flow through the second communication hole 330 and the direction of the air flow through the accommodating portion 321 may be different. For example, as Figure 6 shown, the direction of the air flowing into the second communication hole 330 and the direction of the air flowing out of the accommodating portion 321 may be different. The direction of the air flowing into the second communication hole 330 may be substantially the thickness direction of the accommodating portion 321 or substantially the thickness direction of the battery pack 10 (e.g., in the Figure 6 Y-axis direction in Figure 6 ). The direction of the air flowing out of the accommodating portion 321 may be substantially in the depth direction of the accommodating portion 321 or substantially in the height direction of the battery pack 10 (e.g., in the

[0087] Z-axis direction in Figure 6 ). The expression "substantially" may include not only the case where the air moves strictly in this direction, but also the case where the amount of air moving in this direction is relatively large. The direction of the air flowing into the second communication hole 330 and the direction of the air flowing out of the accommodating portion 321 may cross each other (e.g., may be perpendicular to each other).

[0088] The support member 300 may include an upper support member 300a and a lower support member 300b. The upper support member 300a may be on the upper retainer 100a, and the lower support member 300b may be on the lower retainer 100b. For example, as Figure 4 shown, the upper support member 300a may be adjacent to the upper edge of the upper retainer 100a, and the lower support member 300b may be adjacent to the lower edge of the lower retainer 100b. As Figure 4 shown, the protrusion 320 and the second communication hole 330 may be formed in the lower support member 300b. In some embodiments, the protrusion 320 and the second communication hole 330 may also be formed on the upper support member 300a or only formed on the upper support member 300a.

[0089] The connector 400 can connect the retainer 100 to an external device. For example, the connector 400 can include a wire 420 and a terminal 410. As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, the wire 420 can extend from one side (e.g., the bottom) of the retainer 100 and can be connected to the control board of the battery pack 10 or the battery management system (BMS). In addition, the wire 420 can be connected to the terminal 410, and the terminal 410 can be connected to an external device.

[0090] The battery pack 10 can also include a cover 600. The cover 600 can be attached to and detached from the housing 200 and can cover the first communication hole 250 of the housing 200. For example, as Figure 11 shown, if it is confirmed that the housing 200 is properly sealed after the leak test, the cover 600 can be attached to the first communication hole 250. The cover 600 can include an adhesive on one side and can have a size larger than the size of the first communication hole 250 (e.g., a larger width and length). For example, the cover 600 can cover the entire first communication hole 250 and overlap with the entire first communication hole 250. The cover 600 can include a material that allows air to pass through but does not allow moisture to pass through. For example, the cover 600 can include a waterproof and breathable material that allows air to pass through. The portion of the cover 600 corresponding to (e.g., overlapping) the first communication hole 250 can include a material that allows air to pass through but does not allow moisture to pass through. Therefore, the cover 600 can prevent condensation from occurring inside the housing 200 by allowing air to flow through the first communication hole 250 in a state where the housing 200 is joined, and can block moisture flowing in from the outside.

[0091] The cover 600 can include a large-diameter portion 610 and a small-diameter portion 620. For example, as Figure 11 shown, the large-diameter portion 610 can completely surround the small-diameter portion 620 and can be concentric with the small-diameter portion 620.

[0092] The large-diameter portion 610 is an area attached to the housing 200 and may include an adhesive on one of its sides. The large-diameter portion 610 may have an outer radius R1 and an inner radius R2 (the outer radius R1 may be greater than the inner radius R2), and may have an annular shape with an opening on its inner side (e.g., a ring shape) (e.g., the opening in the large-diameter portion 610 may be the center of the annular shape and may have an inner radius R2). The small-diameter portion 620 may be in the opening of the large-diameter portion 610, and the inner radius R2 of the large-diameter portion 610 may be greater than the radius of the first communication hole 250. In a state where the cover 600 is attached to the housing 200 to correspond to (e.g., cover or overlap) the first communication hole 250, the large-diameter portion 610 may not cover the first communication hole 250 (e.g., the large-diameter portion 610 may be attached to the area of the housing 200 surrounding the first communication hole 250). The large-diameter portion 610 may include a material that does not allow both moisture and air to pass through.

[0093] The small-diameter portion 620 is an area corresponding to (e.g., covering or overlapping) the first communication hole 250 and may not include an adhesive. The small-diameter portion 620 may include a waterproof and breathable material that allows air to pass through. The small-diameter portion 620 may have an inner radius R2 and may be located at the opening of the large-diameter portion 610. In a state where the cover 600 is attached to the housing 200, the center of the small-diameter portion 620 may be on the center of the first communication hole 250 (e.g., the centers of the small-diameter portion 620 and the first communication hole 250 may be aligned and overlapped).

[0094] For example, the sealing and leakage test of the battery pack 10 may be performed as follows.

[0095] First, the holder 100 that houses the battery cell 500 may be inserted into the housing 200 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). The holder 100 may be in a state where the support 300 is mounted thereon. For example, the holder 100 may be inserted into the housing 200 such that the first communication hole 250 of the housing 200 corresponds to the second communication hole 330 of the support 300. The expression "corresponds" means a state where the first communication hole 250 and the second communication hole 330 overlap each other, e.g., a state where the center of the first communication hole 250 may be inside the second communication hole 330.

[0096] Next, the housing 200 may be joined. In a state where the connector 400 can be pulled out from the opening 230 of the housing 200, the joining portions 240 may contact each other and then be joined. For example, the joining portions 240 may be joined by heat fusion. For example, the second portion 242 of the joining portion 240 corresponding to the connector 400 (e.g., the wire 420 of the connector 400) may be joined by applying an adhesive without heat fusion. In addition, heat fusion may be performed on the first portion 241 of the joining portion 240.

[0097] The joining can be performed in a state where a pair of wings 220 do not overlap each other (see Figure 7 ). For example, a pair of wings 220 can be spaced apart from each other in the folded state such that the joining portions 240 can contact each other. At this time, the edges of the opening 230 can also contact or come closer. For example, when the housing 200 is folded in a direction in which a pair of second edges 232 come closer to each other, the joining portions 240 can contact each other.

[0098] Next, the housing 200 can be folded and fixed (see Figure 9 ). For example, the wings 220 can be folded and fixed to the side portions of the housing 200, and the remaining portions of the housing 200 on the joining portions 240 can be folded and fixed. The housing 200 can be fixed by using tape or the like. In addition, the joining portions 240 can be fixed in the folded state. For example, the joining portions 240 can be fixed in the folded state such that a part of the joining portions 240 can be on the side portion of the holder 100, while the other part can be on the upper and lower surfaces of the holder 100.

[0099] Next, a leak test can be performed (see Figure 10 ). In a state where the first communication hole 250 and the second communication hole 330 correspond to each other, a nozzle N for injecting air can be positioned in the first communication hole 250. Then, air can be injected through the nozzle N. The leak test (e.g., whether there is an air leak) can be performed by injecting air at a certain level of pressure and then measuring the internal pressure of the housing 200 after a certain period of time. If the measured internal pressure of the housing 200 satisfies the target range, it can be determined that the leak test has passed.

[0100] Next, the cover 600 is attached to the housing 200 (see Figure 11 ). The small-diameter portion 620 of the cover 600 can be positioned to correspond to the first communication hole 250, and the large-diameter portion 610 of the cover 600 can be attached to the housing 200 around the first communication hole 250. Since the cover 600 (i.e., the small-diameter portion 620 of the cover 600) allows air to pass through and includes a waterproof and breathable material, the cover 600 can prevent external moisture or foreign matter from flowing into the housing 200 through the cover 600. Moreover, since air can pass through the cover 600, condensation inside the housing 200 can be prevented.

[0101] Through summarization and review, one or more embodiments include a battery pack that can improve the fixation between a battery cell and a housing. The battery pack 10 can be engaged after the retainer 100 is inserted into the housing 200, and thus, moisture or dust can be prevented from entering the housing 200. In the battery pack 10, the housing 200 is engaged such that the wings 220 do not overlap each other, thereby improving the engagement quality and preventing moisture from flowing into the housing 200 from the outside. The battery pack 10 can easily perform a leakage test of the housing 200 using the first communication hole 250 of the housing 200 and the second communication hole 330 formed in the support member 300 attached to the retainer 100.

[0102] However, the effects that can be achieved through the present disclosure are not limited to the above effects, and other technical effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the present disclosure.

[0103] Example embodiments have been disclosed herein, and although specific terms have been employed, they are used and interpreted in a general and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. In some instances, as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art at the time of filing the present application, unless otherwise specifically stated, features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with a particular embodiment may be used alone or in combination with features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with other embodiments. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

[0104] This application claims the priority and benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0008930, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on January 19, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A battery pack, comprising: a plurality of battery cells; a retainer that houses the plurality of battery cells therein; a connector connected to the plurality of battery cells; a housing surrounding the retainer, the housing being flexible and including a first communication hole, and the housing being joined in a state where the retainer is inserted therein and the connector is pulled out from the housing; and a support on the retainer, the support including a second communication hole.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the housing includes: a main body surrounding the retainer; an opening at the top of the main body and in fluid communication with the main body, through which the retainer is inserted into the main body, the opening being joined and having opposite sides connected to each other; and wing portions on the outer side of the main body, the opening being joined in a direction in which the wing portions are spaced apart from each other.

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein the opening is joined in a direction in which the wing portions are away from each other.

4. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein: the wing portions include a pair of wing portions facing each other on one side and the other side of the main body, and the opening includes a plurality of edges, and the opening is joined such that the edges not connected to the pair of wing portions are close to each other.

5. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein the housing includes a joining portion along the perimeter of the main body, and the housing is joined along the joining portion.

6. The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein the wing portions are not joined to each other, and a plurality of surfaces of the main body corresponding to the joining portion are joined to each other.

7. The battery pack according to claim 5, wherein, Among the joining portions, a portion of the joining portion through which the connector passes includes an adhesive, and the remaining portion of the joining portion does not include the adhesive.

8. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the support includes: a main frame on the retainer; and a protrusion on the main frame, the protrusion including the second communication hole on its surface, a receiving portion in fluid communication with the second communication hole, and an inlet opening in fluid communication with the receiving portion.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein: the main frame is at an end of the retainer in the height direction of the retainer, and the protrusion extends from the center in the longitudinal direction of the retainer.

10. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein the inlet opening opens toward an edge of the retainer.

11. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein: the length of the inlet opening is greater than the length of the second communication hole, and the depth of the receiving portion is greater than the height of the main frame.

12. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein the flow direction of air flowing into the second communication hole and the flow direction of air flowing out from the receiving portion are different from each other.

13. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein the support further includes ribs extending from one surface of the holder and connected to the main frame, the ribs being on opposite sides of the protrusion and defining the receiving portion together with the protrusion on the inner side.

14. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the support includes: an upper support mounted on one edge of the side portion of the holder; and a lower support on the other edge of the side portion of the holder, the lower support being spaced apart from the upper support and including the second communication hole.

15. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, In a state where the housing surrounds the holder, the first communication hole and the second communication hole overlap each other.

16. The battery pack according to claim 15, wherein: the center of the first communication hole is inside the second communication hole, and the area of the first communication hole is smaller than the area of the second communication hole.

17. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the second communication hole includes a plurality of slits having an elongated hole shape.

18. The battery pack according to claim 17, wherein the plurality of slits are parallel to the longitudinal direction of the holder and are spaced apart from each other in the height direction of the holder.

19. The battery pack according to claim 15, further including a cover, the cover including a material configured to allow air to pass through and be waterproof and breathable, the cover being attached to the housing and overlapping the first communication hole.

20. The battery pack according to claim 19, wherein the cover includes: a small-diameter portion including a material that allows air to pass through and is waterproof and breathable, and the center of the small-diameter portion overlaps the center of the first communication hole; and a large-diameter portion including the small-diameter portion on its inner side and attached to the housing so as not to cover the first communication hole.

Images