Battery pack and device including the same

Abstract

A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a pack case including an opening portion, the opening portion having at least one open surface, and in which the battery cell stack is accommodated; a circuit breaker (CB) member located between the battery cell stack and the opening portion, and electrically connected to the battery cell stack; and a cover member for covering the opening portion, in which the cover member includes a through hole through which the circuit breaker member is exposed to the outside, and a circuit breaker cover section for opening / closing the through hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0080513, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on June 22, 2023, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0080514, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on June 22, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] This disclosure relates to a battery pack and an apparatus including the battery pack, and more specifically, to a battery pack and an apparatus including the battery pack, wherein the battery pack includes a cover member capable of being quickly opened and closed in an emergency, while protecting the circuit breaker (CB) member from external environmental influences under normal circumstances.

[0004] This disclosure also relates to a battery pack and an apparatus including the battery pack, wherein the battery pack drains some of the water and dust that have flowed into the outside of the battery pack while preventing water and dust from flowing into the inside of the battery pack. Background Technology

[0005] Secondary batteries, highly adaptable to a wide range of products and exhibiting excellent electrical characteristics such as high energy density, are commonly used not only in portable devices but also in electric or hybrid electric vehicles and energy storage systems powered by electric motors. Due to their major advantages of significantly reducing fossil fuel consumption and producing no byproducts from energy use, secondary batteries are receiving increasing attention, making them a new, environmentally friendly, and energy-efficient energy source.

[0006] Currently commercially available rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), nickel-zinc (NiZn), and lithium-ion batteries. Among them, lithium-ion batteries have attracted much attention because they have advantages such as almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, allowing for free charging and discharging, and possessing very low self-discharge rates and high energy density.

[0007] Lithium-ion batteries can generally be classified based on the shape of their external materials as: cylindrical or prismatic batteries in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a metal can; and pouch batteries in which the electrode assembly is embedded in a pouch made of aluminum laminate.

[0008] In the case of secondary batteries used in small-sized devices, two to three individual battery cells are placed. However, in the case of secondary batteries used in medium or large devices such as automobiles, medium or large battery modules or battery packs in which a large number of individual battery cells are electrically connected can be used.

[0009] In such battery modules or battery packs, a large number of individual battery cells are connected in series or parallel to form individual modules, thereby increasing capacity and output. Furthermore, battery modules or battery packs can be installed together with various control and protection systems (such as BMS (Battery Management System)) and cooling systems to form a battery pack.

[0010] Furthermore, in emergency situations such as the explosion or ignition of battery modules or battery packs, safety devices such as circuit breakers (CBs) that disconnect the electrical connections of the battery modules or battery packs can be installed. Specifically, such safety devices need to be able to be opened and closed quickly and easily in emergency situations, while being protected from the user and external environment under normal conditions.

[0011] However, when battery modules or battery packs are used as energy storage systems for grid, residential, commercial, and UPS (uninterruptible power supply) purposes, they may be relatively more exposed to users and the external environment. In this case, safety devices such as circuit breakers (CBs) are also likely to be exposed to users and the external environment.

[0012] Therefore, traditional battery modules and battery packs have a structure in which safety devices such as circuit breakers (CBs) are protected by a cover with a complex structure, and thus can be effectively isolated from the user and the external environment. However, such traditional battery modules and battery packs require additional tools or a significant amount of time to remove the complexly structured cover, which leads to the problem of not being able to quickly use the safety devices in an emergency.

[0013] Therefore, there is a need to develop a technology for battery packs that include a cover component that can be opened and closed to enable the safety device to be used quickly in an emergency, while ensuring the waterproof and dustproof performance of the safety device under normal conditions.

[0014] Furthermore, battery modules or battery packs can be used as energy storage systems. Specifically, when used for grid, residential, commercial, and UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) applications, battery modules or battery packs may be relatively more exposed to the external environment. In this case, foreign matter such as water and dust generated in the external environment may flow into the interior of the battery module or battery pack. If foreign matter such as water or dust flows into the interior of the battery module or battery pack, it may cause problems such as battery performance degradation.

[0015] In other words, considering the environment in which battery modules or battery packs are used, they need to prevent foreign substances such as water and dust from entering their interior to maintain battery performance. Therefore, there is a need to develop a technology for battery packs that can adequately ensure their waterproof and dustproof performance. Summary of the Invention

[0016] [Technical Issues]

[0017] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a battery pack and an apparatus including the battery pack, the battery pack including a cover member that can be quickly opened and closed in an emergency, while protecting the circuit breaker (CB) member from external environmental influences under normal circumstances.

[0018] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a battery pack and an apparatus including the battery pack, wherein the battery pack drains some of the water and dust that have flowed into the outside of the battery pack, while preventing water and dust from flowing into the inside of the battery pack.

[0019] The purpose of this disclosure is not limited to the above-described purposes, and other purposes not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art based on the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0020] [Technical Solution]

[0021] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a battery cell stack having a plurality of battery cells stacked therein; a battery pack housing having an opening portion having at least one surface of the opening portion open, and the battery cell stack being housed within the battery pack housing; a circuit breaker (CB) member located between the battery cell stack and the opening portion and electrically connected to the battery cell stack; and a cover member covering the opening portion, wherein the cover member includes a through-hole and a circuit breaker cover section, the circuit breaker member being exposed to the outside through the through-hole, and the circuit breaker cover section opening and closing the through-hole.

[0022] The cover component may include an outer cover and an inner cover, the inner cover being located between the outer cover and the opening portion.

[0023] The inner cover may have an internal through-hole and a circuit breaker cover section, and the outer cover may have an external through-hole, through which the circuit breaker cover section is exposed to the outside.

[0024] The inner cover may have a pair of spring portions positioned adjacent to the internal through hole, and the pair of spring portions and the circuit breaker cover section may be connected to each other.

[0025] The pair of spring portions can be integrated with the inner cover.

[0026] The circuit breaker cover section includes an auxiliary cover and a button portion. The auxiliary cover covers the internal through hole, and the button portion covers the pair of spring portions. The portions of the button portion and the auxiliary cover that contact each other can be connected and released.

[0027] The circuit breaker cover section may further include a first sealing member that surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the internal through-hole and extends toward the auxiliary cover.

[0028] The button portion is configured such that the side surface opposite to the side surface that contacts the auxiliary cover is interconnected with the pair of spring portions, and the auxiliary cover is configured such that the side surface opposite to the side surface that contacts the button portion is interconnected with the outer peripheral surface of the internal through hole.

[0029] When the portion connected to the pair of spring portions is pressed in the button portion, the connection between the button portion and the auxiliary cover is released, and the auxiliary cover can be opened in an outward direction.

[0030] The auxiliary cover includes a first hook portion that protrudes toward the button portion, and the button portion includes a second hook portion that protrudes toward the auxiliary cover, wherein the first hook portion and the second hook portion can be hooked together with each other.

[0031] The first hook portion is located above the second hook portion, and the hook connection between the first hook portion and the second hook portion can be released when the side surface of the pair of spring portions is pressed in the button portion.

[0032] The inner cover may also include a central portion, an edge portion formed along the outer peripheral surface of the central portion, and at least one protrusion formed in the central portion.

[0033] The protrusion may have a structure that protrudes toward the outer cover and is inclined in the direction from the central portion toward the edge portion.

[0034] The inner cover also includes at least one vent, which is formed at a location adjacent to the edge portion and is openable toward the outside of the battery pack housing.

[0035] The edge portion extends in the direction toward the outer cover and can cover the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover.

[0036] The outer cover includes at least one outer hook portion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover and protruding toward the edge portion, and the inner cover includes at least one inner hook portion formed on the edge portion and protruding toward the central portion, wherein the inner hook portion and the outer hook portion are hooked together so that the inner cover and the outer cover can be fixed to each other.

[0037] The pair of inner hook portions and the outer hook portions that are hooked together can be formed at the upper part of the vent.

[0038] The inner cover includes at least one connecting portion located between the protrusion and the edge portion and formed on the upper part of the outer peripheral surface of the opening portion, and the inner cover also includes at least one bolt member extending through each of the at least one connecting portion, wherein the connecting portion and the bolt member can be bolted together to secure the inner cover and the battery pack housing to each other.

[0039] The outer peripheral surface of the connecting portion may protrude toward the outer cover.

[0040] The battery pack further includes a second sealing member located between the inner cover and the opening portion, wherein the second sealing member includes at least one through hole formed in the lower portion of the at least one connecting portion, and wherein the connecting portion and the through hole can be bolted together by the bolt member.

[0041] [Beneficial Effects]

[0042] According to one embodiment, the battery pack and the device including the battery pack of this disclosure allow auxiliary covers and button portions included in the circuit breaker cover section for covering the circuit breaker (CB) component to be opened and closed in a one-touch manner, so that the circuit breaker component can be protected from the external environment under normal conditions and can also be used quickly in emergency situations.

[0043] According to another embodiment, the battery pack and device including the battery pack of this disclosure include a cover member that covers an opening in the battery pack housing and thus prevents water and dust from flowing into the interior of the battery pack. Furthermore, the battery pack and device including the battery pack of this disclosure include at least one protrusion formed at the central portion of an inner cover included in the cover member, allowing some of the water and dust that has already flowed in to drain to the outside of the battery pack.

[0044] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the specific embodiments and the accompanying drawings any additional effects not described above. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1An enlarged perspective view of a portion of the battery pack.

[0047] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the battery pack.

[0048] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the enlarged portion of the inner cover and circuit breaker cover sections.

[0049] Figure 5 It shows along Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the section cut along the b-b' axis.

[0050] Figure 6 It is shown in Figure 1 A perspective view of the state of connection between the auxiliary cover and the button section in a part of the battery pack, including the release of the battery pack.

[0051] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 3 Exploded perspective view of the cover and sealing components.

[0052] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Top view of the inner cover.

[0053] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 A magnified perspective view of a portion of the image.

[0054] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 A perspective view of the outer cover.

[0055] Figure 11 It shows along Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the section cut along the a-a' axis. Detailed Implementation

[0056] Various embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, enabling those skilled in the art to readily implement them. This disclosure can be modified in various different ways and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0057] Parts unrelated to the specification will be omitted in order to clearly describe this disclosure, and throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0058] Furthermore, the dimensions and thicknesses of each element are arbitrarily shown in the accompanying drawings for ease of description; therefore, this disclosure is not necessarily limited to those shown in the drawings. The thicknesses of layers, regions, etc., are exaggerated in the accompanying drawings for clarity. The thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated in the accompanying drawings for ease of description.

[0059] Furthermore, throughout the specification, when a section is referred to as "including" or "contains" a component, it means that unless otherwise stated, that section may also include other components, without excluding other components.

[0060] Furthermore, throughout the instruction manual, when referred to as a "plane," it means the target portion is viewed from above, while when referred to as a "section," it means the target portion is viewed from the side of a vertically cut section.

[0061] A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described.

[0062] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 An enlarged perspective view of a portion of the battery pack. Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the battery pack.

[0063] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery pack 100 includes: a battery cell stack 110 in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a battery pack housing 200 including an opening 250, at least one surface of which is open, and the battery cell stack 110 is housed within the battery pack housing 200; a circuit breaker (CB) member 600 located between the battery cell stack 110 and the opening 250 and electrically connected to the battery cell stack 110; and a cover member 300 covering the opening 250.

[0064] The battery cell stack 110 may include a plurality of battery cells. Here, the battery cells may be stacked in one direction to form the battery cell stack 110. In the battery cell stack 110, the plurality of battery cells may be arranged in a direction from one side surface of the battery pack housing 200 to another side surface, and one side surface and the other side surface of the battery pack housing 200 may be two surfaces facing each other based on the longitudinal direction of the battery pack housing 200. As an example, such as Figure 2 As shown, in the battery cell stack 110, multiple battery cells can be stacked in the x-axis direction toward two side surfaces facing each other.

[0065] As an example, the battery cells included in the battery cell stack 110 can be pouch-shaped, prismatic, or jelly roll-shaped cylindrical battery cells. Preferably, pouch-shaped or prismatic batteries can be used to form a battery cell stack 110 that includes a large number of battery cells within a limited space inside the battery pack 100. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and any shape that can be easily accommodated inside the battery pack housing 200 can be applied.

[0066] If the battery cells included in the battery cell stack 110 are pouch-type battery cells, they can be produced by housing the electrode assembly in a pouch-like shell comprising a resin layer and an inner layer, and then heat-sealing the sealed portion of the pouch-like shell. Such battery cells can be formed into a rectangular sheet structure. Multiple battery cells can be configured, and these multiple battery cells are stacked to be electrically connected to each other, thereby forming a battery cell stack. Here, the number of battery cells constituting the battery cell stack 110 can be adjusted as needed.

[0067] The battery pack housing 200 protects the battery cell stack 110 and the electrical component module 150 from external physical impacts. The electrical component module 150 includes electrical components electrically connected to the battery cell stack. The structure of the battery pack housing 200 can be applied in various ways, and its material can be made of a metallic material with a predetermined strength.

[0068] refer to Figure 2 In the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the circuit breaker (CB) component 600 may be included in the electrical component module 150 housed in the battery pack housing 200, and the circuit breaker component 600 may be electrically connected to the battery cell stack 110.

[0069] As an example, circuit breaker component 600 may be a component configured to include a fuse electrically connected to the battery cell stack 110, and capable of tripping the fuse in the event of an abnormal event such as abnormal operation of the battery pack 100, such as overcharging, over-discharging, or overcurrent. As another example, Figure 2 As shown, the switching element included in the circuit breaker component 600 may be exposed to the outside of the battery pack 100, such that the electrical connection of the battery pack 110 can be disconnected by the switching element in the event of an abnormality in the battery pack 100 or when desired by the user. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the circuit breaker component 600 used herein may be a commonly used circuit breaker component, and any configuration capable of disconnecting the electrical connection inside the battery pack 100 may be applied to this embodiment.

[0070] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, when an emergency occurs inside or outside the battery pack 100, the circuit breaker member 600 can disconnect the electrical connection inside the battery pack 100, and can further improve the safety of the battery pack 100.

[0071] The battery pack housing 200 may include an opening 250, at least one surface of which is open. As an example, the battery pack housing 200 includes an opening 250 in which a portion of the electrical component module 150 is exposed, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the battery cell stack 110 can be housed inside the battery pack housing 200. Furthermore, a lower cover 400 covering the lower surface of the battery cell stack 110 can be connected to the lower part of the battery pack housing 200 by welding or the like. That is, as... Figure 3 As shown, the battery pack housing 200 can be in the form of a single frame covering the front and rear surfaces and two side surfaces of the battery cell stack 110. As another example, the battery pack housing 200 and the lower cover 400 can be integrated with each other. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and any form of frame can be applied to this embodiment, as long as it takes the form of a frame capable of protecting the internal components of the battery module 100.

[0072] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the battery pack housing 200 includes an opening 250 formed on at least one surface, so that the battery cell stack 110 and / or electrical component module 150 can be easily accommodated inside the battery pack housing 200.

[0073] The cover member 300 may cover the opening 250 of the battery pack housing 200. Here, the cover member 300 may extend along the opening 250 of the battery pack housing 200. As an example, the cover member 300 may have a dimension equal to or larger than the outer peripheral surface of the opening 250 of the battery pack housing 200. Additionally, the cover member 300 includes a circuit breaker cover 500, which may cover a circuit breaker (CB) component included in the electrical component module 150. Here, the circuit breaker cover 500 may be exposed to the outside through an external through-hole 325 included in the outer cover 320.

[0074] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the battery pack housing 200 includes an opening 250 formed on at least one surface, allowing the battery cell stack 110 and / or electrical component module 150 to be easily accommodated inside the battery pack housing 200. Furthermore, by including a cover member 300 covering the opening 250 formed in the battery pack housing 200, foreign matter such as water and dust can be prevented from entering the interior of the battery pack 100.

[0075] The cover member 300 may include an outer cover 320 and an inner cover 310 located between the outer cover 320 and the opening portion 250. As an example, the cover member 300 may be configured such that the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 are sequentially coupled to the opening portion 250 of the battery pack housing 200. As another example, the cover member 300 may be coupled to the opening portion 250 of the battery pack housing 200 with the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 pre-coupled.

[0076] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the outer cover 320 can prevent foreign objects such as water and dust from entering from the external environment. In addition, the inner cover 310 can further prevent foreign objects such as water and dust that are not protected by the outer cover 320 from flowing into the interior of the battery pack housing 200.

[0077] refer to Figures 1 to 3 In the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the cover member 300 may include through holes 300h and 325 and a circuit breaker cover section 500, wherein the circuit breaker member 600 is exposed to the outside through the through holes 300h and 325, and the circuit breaker cover section 500 opens and closes the through holes 300h and 325. Here, the through holes 300h and 325 may include an internal through hole 300h and an external through hole 325.

[0078] The inner cover 310 may have an internal through-hole 300h and a circuit breaker cover 500, wherein the circuit breaker component 600 is exposed to the outside through the internal through-hole 300h, and the circuit breaker cover 500 opens and closes the internal through-hole 300h. In the inner cover 310, the internal through-hole 300h communicates with an opening portion 250, allowing the circuit breaker component 600 to be exposed to the outside through the opening portion 250 and the internal through-hole 300h.

[0079] Furthermore, the outer cover 320 may have an external through-hole 325 through which the circuit breaker cover section 500 is exposed to the outside. In the outer cover 320, the external through-hole 325 may have a size equal to or larger than that of the internal through-hole 300h, so that the circuit breaker component 600 may also be exposed to the outside through the external through-hole 325.

[0080] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, if an emergency occurs inside or outside the battery pack 100, the user can relatively easily access the circuit breaker member 600 through the opening portion 250 of the battery pack housing 200 and the through holes 300h and 325 of the cover member 300, thereby quickly cutting off the electrical connection inside the battery pack 100.

[0081] refer to Figures 1 to 3The circuit breaker cover section 500 can cover the circuit breaker member 600 included in the electrical component module 150. In other words, the circuit breaker cover section 500 can cover the through holes 300h and 325 of the cover member 300. More specifically, the circuit breaker cover section 500 can cover the internal through hole 300h formed in the inner cover 310, and the circuit breaker cover section 500 can be exposed to the outside through the external through hole 325 included in the outer cover 320.

[0082] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the circuit breaker cover section 500 normally covers the circuit breaker component 600, and thus prevents foreign substances such as water and dust from entering the circuit breaker component 600 and the battery pack housing 200. Furthermore, in the event of an emergency inside or outside the battery pack 100, the circuit breaker cover section 500 can be opened or closed, allowing the user relatively easy access to the circuit breaker component 600 and quick disconnection of the electrical connections inside the battery pack 100.

[0083] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the enlarged portion of the inner cover and circuit breaker cover sections. Figure 5 It shows along Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the section cut along the b-b' axis. Figure 6 It is shown in Figure 1 A perspective view of the state of connection between the auxiliary cover and the button section in a part of the battery pack, including the release of the battery pack.

[0084] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the inner cover 310 may be formed with a pair of spring portions 570 positioned adjacent to the internal through hole 300h.

[0085] As an example, the pair of spring portions 570 can be integrated with the inner cover 310. That is, the pair of spring portions 570 can have a structure in which the spring portions 570 are injection molded together during the manufacture of the inner cover 310. As another example, the pair of spring portions 570 can be attached to the inner cover 310 by a connection such as welding. More preferably, the integration of the pair of spring portions 570 with the inner cover 310 minimizes the number of parts required to manufacture the battery pack 100.

[0086] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the circuit breaker cover section 500 may include an auxiliary cover 510 covering the internal through hole 300h and a button portion 530 covering a pair of spring portions 570.

[0087] More specifically, the auxiliary cover 510 may include an auxiliary cover surface 511 and an auxiliary cover rotating portion 515 formed at the lower part of the auxiliary cover surface 511, and the button portion 530 may include a button surface 531 and a button rotating portion 535 formed at the lower part of the button surface 531. Furthermore, the button portion 530 may include a button protrusion 531p formed at the lower part of the button surface 531 and protruding toward the pair of spring portions 570. At the lower part of the button surface 531, the button rotating portion 535 may be positioned adjacent to the internal through hole 300h, and the button protrusion 531p may be positioned adjacent to the pair of spring portions 570.

[0088] The pair of spring portions 570 and the circuit breaker cover section 500 can be connected to each other. In other words, the button portion 530 included in the circuit breaker cover section 500 can be connected to the pair of spring portions 570 on a side surface opposite to the side surface that contacts the auxiliary cover 510. More specifically, in the circuit breaker cover section 500, the button protrusion 531p included in the button portion 530 can be hooked to the pair of spring portions 570. Here, the pair of spring portions 570 can have elasticity when pressed in the direction toward the button portion 530.

[0089] In the auxiliary cover 510, the auxiliary cover surface 511 may extend along the internal through-hole 300h and may have a size equal to or greater than that of the outer peripheral surface of the internal through-hole 300h. Furthermore, the auxiliary cover 510 may be formed such that a side surface opposite to the side surface that contacts the button portion 530 is connected to the outer peripheral surface of the internal through-hole 300h. The auxiliary cover rotating portion 515 may be fitted into at least one first connecting groove 310a formed in the inner cover 310. That is, the auxiliary cover 510 can open and close the internal through-hole 300h when it rotates based on the auxiliary cover rotating portion 515.

[0090] In the button portion 530, the button surface 531 extends from the auxiliary cover 510 to the pair of spring portions 570 and may have dimensions capable of covering the pair of spring portions 570. Furthermore, the button rotating portion 535 can be fitted into at least one second connecting groove 310b formed in the inner cover 310. That is, when the portion located at the upper part of the pair of spring portions 570 is pressed in the button portion 530, the button portion 530 can rotate relative to the button rotating portion 535.

[0091] Furthermore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the portions of the button portion 530 and the auxiliary cover 510 that are in contact with each other can be connected and released. More specifically, when the portion of the button portion 530 connected to the pair of spring portions 570 is pressed, the connection between the button portion 530 and the auxiliary cover 510 is released, and the auxiliary cover 510 can be opened to the outside.

[0092] More specifically, see reference Figure 5 The auxiliary cover 510 includes a first hook portion 519 protruding in the direction toward the button portion 530, and the button portion 530 may include a second hook portion 539 protruding in the direction toward the auxiliary cover 510. Here, the first hook portion 519 and the second hook portion 539 can be hooked together with each other.

[0093] As an example, the first hook portion 519 can be located above the second hook portion 539. In other words, the second hook portion 539 can be located below the first hook portion 519. That is, the first hook portion 519 and the second hook portion 539 can have a structure in which they face each other in a cross manner.

[0094] As described in detail above, when the button portion 530 is not pressed, the pair of spring portions 570 can have elasticity when pressed in the direction toward the button portion 530. That is, under normal circumstances, when the pair of spring portions 570 are pressed, the button protrusion 531p formed on the button portion 530 faces upward (in the z-axis direction), thereby maintaining the hook connection between the first hook portion 519 and the second hook portion 539.

[0095] Unlike it, such as Figure 5 As shown, when the portion connected to the pair of spring portions 570 is pressed in the button portion 530, the hook connection between the first hook portion 519 and the second hook portion 539 can be released. That is, when the portion containing the button protrusion 531p included in the button portion 530 is pressed, the portion containing the first hook portion 519 formed on the button portion 530 can be lifted so that it faces upwards (in the z-axis direction), as... Figure 6 As shown. At this time, when the first hook portion 519 and the second hook portion 539 are spaced apart by a predetermined distance, the hook connection between the first hook portion 519 and the second hook portion 539 can be released.

[0096] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, the inner cover 310 may also include an auxiliary spring 310c formed between at least one first connecting groove 310a, and the auxiliary spring 310c may have the following elasticity, which allows a portion of the auxiliary cover 510 positioned adjacent to the button portion 530 to rotate upwards (in the z-axis direction).

[0097] In other words, Figure 5 In the middle, before pressing the button portion 530, the hook connection between the first hook portion 519 and the second hook portion 539 is maintained, so that the auxiliary cover 510 can cover the internal through hole 300h. This differs from, as... Figure 5 As shown, when the hook connection between the first hook portion 519 and the second hook portion 539 is released by pressing the button protrusion 531p formed on the button portion 530, the portion of the auxiliary cover 510 where the second hook portion 539 is located can rotate to face upward (in the z-axis direction). That is, as Figure 6 As shown, the auxiliary cover 510 rotates so that the part containing the second hook portion 539 faces upward (in the z-axis direction), and the internal through hole 300h can be opened to the outside.

[0098] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, under normal circumstances, the connection between the auxiliary cover 510 and the button portion 530 is maintained, thereby preventing foreign substances such as water and dust from entering the circuit breaker component 600 and the battery pack housing 200. In contrast, in an emergency inside or outside the battery pack 100, when the button portion 530 is pressed, the connection between the auxiliary cover and the button portion 530 is easily released, allowing the circuit breaker component 600 to be quickly exposed through the internal through-hole 300h.

[0099] In other words, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the circuit breaker component 600 can be opened and closed relatively easily and quickly. In this respect, the user can access the circuit breaker component 600 relatively easily and can quickly disconnect the electrical connections inside the battery pack 100.

[0100] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to this embodiment, the battery pack 100 may further include a first sealing member 550, which surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the internal through hole 300h and extends toward the auxiliary cover 510. Here, the first sealing member 550 may be fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the internal through hole 300h together with the auxiliary cover 510, and may also be compressed between the auxiliary cover 510 and the inner cover 310.

[0101] As an example, the first sealing member 550 may be made of an insulating resin. As another example, the first sealing member 550 may be made of at least one material selected from polyurethane (US), silicone foam, synthetic rubber, and EPDM (ethylene-propylene diene monomer). However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and in this embodiment may include any material that has electrical insulating properties while sealing between the auxiliary cover 510 and the inner cover 310.

[0102] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the first sealing member 550 can improve the sealing performance between the auxiliary cover 510 and the inner cover 310, and can also more effectively prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing into the space between the auxiliary cover 510 and the inner cover 310.

[0103] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 3 Exploded perspective view of the cover and sealing components. Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Top view of the inner cover.

[0104] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The cover member 300 includes an outer cover 320 and an inner cover 310 located between the outer cover 320 and the opening portion 250. As an example, the cover member 300 may be configured such that the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 are sequentially connected to the opening portion 250 of the battery pack housing 200. As another example, the cover member 300 may be connected to the opening portion 250 of the battery pack housing 200 with the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 pre-connected.

[0105] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the outer cover 320 can prevent foreign objects such as water and dust from flowing in from the external environment. In addition, the inner cover 310 can further prevent foreign objects such as water and dust that are not protected by the outer cover 320 from flowing into the interior of the battery pack housing 200.

[0106] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The inner cover 310 includes a central portion 311 and an edge portion 312 formed along the outer peripheral surface of the central portion 311, and at least one protrusion 313 formed in the central portion 311.

[0107] In the inner cover 310, such as Figure 5 As shown, the central portion 311 can represent the central surface of the inner cover 310, and the central portion 311 can extend along the xy plane.

[0108] Furthermore, the edge portion 312 is a portion formed along the outer peripheral surface of the central portion 311, which may correspond to a corner of the inner cover 310. More specifically, the edge portion 312 may extend in a direction toward the outer cover 320, such as... Figure 4 As shown.

[0109] As an example, the edge portion 312 can be formed along the outer peripheral surface of the central portion 311, and can also extend towards the outer cover 320 along the z-axis direction. Here, as... Figure 2 As shown, the edge portion 312 of the inner cover 310 can cover the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover 320.

[0110] As another example, the edge portion 312 may be formed along the outer peripheral surface of the central portion 311 and may also extend along the outer surface of the battery pack housing 200. Here, the edge portion 312 of the inner cover 310 may cover a portion of the outer surface of the battery pack housing 200.

[0111] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the edge portion 312 of the inner cover 310 included in the cover member 300 can also cover the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover 320 and / or the outer surface of the battery pack housing 200, thereby improving the sealing performance of the battery pack 100 and effectively preventing foreign matter such as water and dust from entering the interior of the battery pack 100.

[0112] In the inner cover 310, a protrusion 313 may project toward the outer cover 320. More specifically, the protrusion 313 may have a structure that slopes in the direction from the central portion 311 toward the edge portion 312. Here, the structure that slopes in the direction from the central portion 311 toward the edge portion 312 may mean that the middle portion of the central portion 311 is relatively high, while the outer portion of the central portion 311 is relatively low. As an example, the protrusion 313 may have a structure that projectes convexly toward the outer cover 320 based on the bottom surface of the central portion 311. Here, as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the protrusion 313 may have a symmetrical shape based on the center of the inner cover 310 in the yz plane and / or xz plane.

[0113] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, even if foreign matter such as water and dust flows into the interior of the cover member 300, the foreign matter such as water and dust flowing in between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can move along the inclined structure of the inner cover 310. That is, foreign matter such as water and dust flowing in between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can move through the path guided by the inner cover 310, and can effectively prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing into the interior of the battery pack housing 200 in which the battery cell stack 110 and the electrical component module 150 are housed.

[0114] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 A magnified perspective view of a portion of the image. Figure 10 yes Figure 7 A perspective view of the outer cover.

[0115] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10The inner cover 310 may also include at least one vent 317 formed at a location adjacent to the edge portion 312. More specifically, the at least one vent 317 may be open toward the outside of the battery pack housing 200. That is, the at least one vent 317 may be formed to penetrate the inner cover 310. In the inner cover 310, the at least one vent 317 may be located between the portion of the inner cover 310 and the opening portion 250 that contacts each other and the edge portion 312. As an example, at least one vent 317 may be formed at a location spaced at a predetermined distance along the edge portion 312 of the inner cover 310. Here, the number of vents 317 can be appropriately adjusted as needed, and can be adjusted to a degree that can effectively expel foreign matter such as water and dust while maintaining the sealing performance and rigidity of the inner cover 310.

[0116] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, foreign matter such as water and dust flowing in between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can move along the protrusion 313 of the inner cover 310, and the foreign matter such as water and dust that has moved along the protrusion 313 can be discharged to the outside through the vent 317. That is, foreign matter such as water and dust flowing in between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can be removed through the vent 317, thereby effectively preventing foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing into the interior of the battery pack housing 200.

[0117] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The inner cover 310 may include at least one connecting portion 315 located between the protrusion 313 and the edge portion 312, and formed in the upper part of the outer peripheral surface of the opening portion 250. Here, the connecting portion 315 may include a connecting hole 315a and a boss portion 315b extending along the outer peripheral surface of the connecting hole 315a. More specifically, the boss portion 315b may protrude toward the outer cover 320.

[0118] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, by means of the boss portion 315b formed on the outer peripheral surface of the connecting portion 315, the inner cover 310 can prevent foreign matter such as water and dust that flows between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 from flowing into the connecting portion 315.

[0119] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 9 According to this embodiment, the battery pack 100 may further include at least one bolt member 800 passing through at least one connecting portion 315. More specifically, the bolt member 800 may pass through a connecting hole 315a included in the connecting portion 315. Here, the connecting portion 315 and the bolt member 800 may be bolted together, so that the inner cover 310 and the battery pack housing 200 can be fixed to each other.

[0120] As an example, bolt member 800 can be made of a material such as stainless steel or carbon steel (e.g., SC45C) used for machine structures. As another example, bolt member 800 can be made of material plated with zinc (Zn) or trivalent chromium (Cr). 3+ It is made of steel. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and any material with sufficient rigidity to stably fix the inner cover 310 and the battery pack housing 200 can be used in this embodiment.

[0121] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the inner cover 310 can be stably fixed to the battery pack housing 200 by bolt connection between the connecting portion 315 and the bolt member 800, and foreign matter such as water and dust can be prevented from flowing into the space between the inner cover 310 and the battery pack housing 200.

[0122] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 7 The battery pack 100 according to this embodiment may further include a second sealing member 700 located between the inner cover 310 and the opening portion 250. Here, the second sealing member 700 may extend along the outer peripheral surface of the opening portion 250 and the surface of the inner cover 310 that contacts each other. In addition, the second sealing member 700 may have a structure for avoiding the portion where at least one vent hole 317 formed in the inner cover 310 is located.

[0123] Furthermore, the second sealing member 700 may include at least one through hole 700h formed in the lower portion of the at least one connecting portion 315. Here, the bolt member 800 may pass through the through hole 700h and be bolted together with the connecting portion 315. That is, the second sealing member 700 may be fixed to the battery pack housing 200 together with the inner cover 310, and is also compressed between the inner cover 310 and the battery pack housing 200.

[0124] As an example, the second sealing member 700 may be made of an insulating resin. As another example, the second sealing member 700 may be made of at least one material selected from polyurethane (US), silicone foam, synthetic rubber, and EPDM (ethylene-propylene diene monomer). However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and in this embodiment may include any material having electrically insulating properties that seals between the cover member 300 and the battery pack housing 200.

[0125] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the second sealing member 700 can improve the sealing performance between the battery pack housing 200 and the cover member 300, and can more effectively prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing into the space between the inner cover 310 and the battery pack housing 200.

[0126] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 9and Figure 10 In the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the outer cover 320 may include at least one outer hook portion 329 formed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover 320 and protruding toward the edge portion 312. Furthermore, the inner cover 310 may include at least one inner hook portion 319 formed on the edge portion 312 and protruding toward the central portion 311. As an example, the inner hook portion 319 and the outer hook portion 329 have a snap-fit ​​structure, and the inner hook portion 319 and the outer hook portion 329 may have a structure that connects to each other. That is, the inner hook portion 319 and the outer hook portion are hook-connected, so that the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can be fixed to each other. As an example, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the inner hook portion 319 can be formed on the upper part of the vent 317. That is, a pair of inner hook portions 319 and outer hook portions 329 that are hooked to each other can be formed in the upper part of the vent 317.

[0127] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the cover member 300 allows the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 to be stably fixed to each other by hook connection, and can also effectively prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing into the space between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320.

[0128] Figure 11 It shows along Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the section cut along the a-a' axis.

[0129] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 11 In the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the cover member 300 can prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing into the external environment through the outer cover 320. Furthermore, in the cover member 300, foreign matter such as water and dust that has already flowed into the outer cover 320 can be located between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320. At this time, as... Figure 8 As shown, foreign matter such as water and dust flowing between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can move along the inclined structure of the protrusion 313 of the inner cover 310. Furthermore, as... Figure 8 As shown, foreign objects such as water and dust that move along the inclined structure of the protrusion 313 of the inner cover 310 can be discharged toward the outside of the battery pack housing 200 through the vent 317.

[0130] Therefore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the cover member 300 effectively prevents foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing into the battery pack housing 200 from the external environment of the battery pack 100, and some of the foreign matter that has already flowed in can be effectively discharged to the outside of the battery pack housing 200. That is, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment cuts off the inflow of water and dust into the battery pack housing 200 under normal use conditions, thereby ensuring IP (Identification Code for Protection) 55 level waterproof and dustproof performance.

[0131] The apparatus according to another embodiment of this disclosure includes the aforementioned battery pack. Such an apparatus can be applied to vehicle systems such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid electric vehicles, but is not limited thereto, and can be applied to various devices capable of using battery modules and battery packs including such battery modules, which also fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0132] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to its preferred embodiments, the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and various modifications and alterations can be made by those skilled in the art using the basic concepts of this disclosure as defined in the appended claims, which also fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0133] [List of reference numerals]

[0134] 100: Battery pack

[0135] 110: Battery cell stack

[0136] 150: Electrical Components Module

[0137] 200: Battery pack casing

[0138] 250: Opening portion

[0139] 300: Cover component

[0140] 300h: Internal through hole

[0141] 310: Inner cover

[0142] 311: Central Section

[0143] 312: Edge section

[0144] 315: Connection part

[0145] 317: Vent

[0146] 319: Inner hook section

[0147] 320: Outer Cover

[0148] 325: External through hole

[0149] 329: Outer hook section

[0150] 400: Bottom Cover

[0151] 500: Circuit breaker cover section

[0152] 510: Auxiliary cover

[0153] 511: Cover surface

[0154] 515: First fixed part

[0155] 519: First hook section

[0156] 530: Button section

[0157] 531: Button surface

[0158] 531p: Protruding buttons

[0159] 535: Second Fixed Part

[0160] 539: Second hook section

[0161] 550: First sealing component

[0162] 570: Spring section

[0163] 600: Circuit breaker components

[0164] 700: Second sealing component

[0165] 700h: Through hole

[0166] 800: Bolted components

Claims

1. A battery pack, comprising: A battery cell stack, in which multiple battery cells are stacked; A battery pack housing, the battery pack housing including an opening portion, at least one surface of the opening portion being open, and the battery cell stack being housed within the battery pack housing; A circuit breaker (CB) component is located between the battery cell stack and the opening portion and is electrically connected to the battery cell stack; as well as A cover member that covers the opening portion. The cover component includes a through hole and a circuit breaker cover section. The circuit breaker component is exposed to the outside through the through hole, and the circuit breaker cover section opens and closes the through hole.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein: The cover component includes an outer cover and an inner cover, with the inner cover located between the outer cover and the opening portion.

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein: The through-hole includes an internal through-hole and an external through-hole. The inner cover has the internal through-hole and the circuit breaker cover section, and The outer cover has the external through-hole, through which the circuit breaker cover section is exposed to the outside.

4. The battery pack according to claim 3, wherein: The inner cover has a pair of spring portions positioned adjacent to the internal through hole, and The pair of spring sections and the circuit breaker cover section are connected to each other.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, wherein: The pair of spring portions are integrated with the inner cover.

6. The battery pack according to claim 4, wherein: The circuit breaker cover section includes an auxiliary cover and a button portion. The auxiliary cover covers the internal through-hole, and the button portion covers the pair of spring portions. The parts of the button and the auxiliary cover that come into contact with each other can be connected and released.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein: The circuit breaker cover section also includes a first sealing member that surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the internal through-hole and extends toward the auxiliary cover.

8. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein: The button portion is formed such that the side surface opposite to the side surface that contacts the auxiliary cover is interconnected with the pair of spring portions, and The auxiliary cover is formed such that the side surface opposite to the side surface of the contacting button portion is connected to the outer peripheral surface of the internal through hole.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein: When the portion of the button that is connected to the pair of springs is pressed, Release the connection between the button portion and the auxiliary cover, and the auxiliary cover opens in an outward direction.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, wherein: The auxiliary cover includes a first hook portion that protrudes toward the button portion, and The button portion includes a second hook portion that protrudes toward the auxiliary cover. The first hook portion and the second hook portion are hooked together.

11. The battery pack according to claim 9, wherein: The first hook portion is located above the second hook portion, and When the side surface of the pair of spring portions is pressed in the button portion, the hook connection between the first hook portion and the second hook portion is released.

12. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein: The inner cover also includes a central portion, an edge portion formed along the outer peripheral surface of the central portion, and at least one protrusion formed in the central portion.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein: The protrusion has a structure that projects toward the outer cover and is inclined in the direction from the central portion toward the edge portion.

14. The battery pack according to claim 13, wherein: The inner cover also includes at least one vent, which is formed at a location adjacent to the edge portion, and The at least one vent is open to the outside of the battery pack housing.

15. The battery pack according to claim 13, wherein: The edge portion extends in the direction toward the outer cover and covers the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover.

16. The battery pack according to claim 15, wherein: The outer cover includes at least one outer hook portion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover and protruding toward the edge portion. The inner cover includes at least one inner hook portion formed on the edge portion and protruding toward the central portion. The inner hook portion and the outer hook portion are hooked together to fix the inner cover and the outer cover together.

17. The battery pack according to claim 16, wherein: The inner hook portion and the outer hook portion, which are hooked together, are respectively formed at the upper part of the vent.

18. The battery pack according to claim 13, wherein: The inner cover includes at least one connecting portion located between the protrusion and the edge portion, and formed on the upper part of the outer peripheral surface of the opening portion. The inner cover also includes at least one bolt member that extends through each of the at least one connecting portion. The connecting portion and the bolt member are bolted together to secure the inner cover and the battery pack housing to each other.

19. The battery pack according to claim 18, wherein: The outer peripheral surface of the connecting portion protrudes toward the outer cover.

20. The battery pack according to claim 18, It also includes a second sealing member located between the inner cover and the opening portion. in, The second sealing member includes at least one through hole formed in the lower portion of each of the at least one connecting portion, and The connecting portion and the through hole are bolted together using the bolt member.

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