Battery module

Abstract

A battery module is provided. The battery module includes: a plurality of secondary batteries; a case accommodating the plurality of secondary batteries; and a first bracket disposed to pass between at least two of the plurality of secondary batteries in the first direction, and including a first end portion and a second end portion joined to the case.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0106507, filed on August 9, 2024, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] An aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure relates to a battery module. Background Technology

[0003] Unlike primary batteries, which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries are rechargeable and dischargeable. Low-capacity secondary batteries can be used in small portable electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders, while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as motor drive power sources and energy storage batteries in hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, and the like. Such secondary batteries include electrode assemblies containing positive and negative electrodes, a housing (or canister) that houses the electrode assemblies, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assemblies.

[0004] Secondary batteries can be used as battery modules formed by connecting multiple secondary batteries in series and / or parallel to provide high energy density. Battery modules can be formed by connecting multiple secondary batteries to each other.

[0005] The information disclosed above in the field described as the background of the invention is provided to improve the understanding of the background of the invention, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a battery module whose expansion can be constrained without separate processes and / or additional components is provided.

[0007] However, the aspects and technical effects to be achieved by the present invention are not limited to those described above. Those skilled in the art can clearly understand other aspects and effects not mentioned in the following description of the present invention.

[0008] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a battery module includes: a plurality of secondary batteries; a housing for accommodating the plurality of secondary batteries; and a first support arranged to pass through at least two of the plurality of secondary batteries in a first direction, and including a first end and a second end engaged with the housing. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings illustrate some embodiments of the present disclosure and further describe aspects and features of the disclosure together with the detailed description thereof. However, the disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating the structure of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the structure of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a perspective view schematically showing the housing of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This illustrates an embodiment of the invention. Figure 3 A magnified perspective view of the area "P"; Figure 6 This illustrates an embodiment of the invention. Figure 3 A magnified perspective view of the area "P"; Figure 7 This illustrates an embodiment of the invention. Figure 3 A magnified perspective view of the area "P"; Figure 8 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 It is shown Figure 3 An enlarged perspective view of area "Q"; and Figure 10 It is shown Figure 3 A magnified bottom perspective view of the area "Q". Detailed Implementation

[0010] Here, some exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Previously, the terms or words used in this specification and claims are not to be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but are to be interpreted as having meanings and concepts consistent with the technical spirit of the invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of the terms to best describe his or her invention. Therefore, it will be understood that the constructions shown in the embodiments described herein and in the accompanying drawings are merely some exemplary embodiments of the invention and do not necessarily represent all the technical ideas of the invention, and various equivalents and modifications may exist that can replace them at the time of submission. Furthermore, when the words “comprising,” “including,” and / or variations thereof are used herein, it indicates the presence of the mentioned shapes, quantities, steps, operations, components, elements, and / or groups thereof, and is not intended to exclude the presence or addition of one or more other shapes, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or groups thereof. Additionally, when describing embodiments of the invention, “may” or variations thereof may include “one or more embodiments of the invention.”

[0011] Furthermore, to aid in understanding the invention, the accompanying drawings may not be drawn to scale and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Additionally, the same reference numerals may be assigned to the same components in different embodiments.

[0012] The statement that two objects used for comparison are “equal” means identical or substantially the same. Therefore, identical or substantially the same can include what is considered a low deviation in the art, for example, less than 5%. Furthermore, the uniformity of parameters over a given region can imply uniformity from an average perspective.

[0013] Although terms such as "first" and "second" can be used to describe various components, components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specifically stated, it will be understood that a first component can also be a second component.

[0014] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0015] When a component is positioned "on (or below)" other components or "above (or below)" other components, it can mean not only that the component is positioned to contact the other components, but also that another component can be positioned between the component and the other components positioned on (or below) the component.

[0016] Furthermore, when a component is described as being “joined,” “combined,” or “connected” to another component, it will be understood that these components may be directly connected or joined to each other, but another component may be “placed” between these components, or the components may be “joined,” “combined,” or “connected” by one or more other components. Moreover, when one part is electrically joined to another, this includes not only direct connection but also connection using one or more other elements between them.

[0017] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated to the contrary, “A and / or B” means A, B, or A and B. That is, “and / or” includes any or all of the listed items. When “C to D” is stated, unless otherwise specifically stated, it means greater than or equal to C and less than or equal to D.

[0018] When phrases such as “at least one of A, B and C (species / beings)”, “at least one of A, B or C (species / beings)”, “at least one selected from the group of A, B and C (species / beings)” or “at least one selected from A, B and C (species / beings)” are used to specify a list of elements A, B and C, the phrase can refer to any suitable combination.

[0019] The term “use” may be considered synonymous with the term “utilization”. As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximations rather than as terms of degree, and are intended to take into account the inherent biases of measurements or calculations that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0020] While terms such as "first," "second," "third," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions are not intended to be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another element, component, region, layer, or portion. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the embodiments, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first portion discussed below may be designated as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0021] To describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element(s) as shown in the accompanying drawings, spatial relative terms such as "below," "under," "lower," "above," and "upper" may be used herein for ease of description. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, spatial relative positions are also intended to encompass different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, when the device in the drawings is inverted, an element described as "below" or "under" another element is understood to be "above" or "on" said other element. Thus, the term "below" can encompass both the upward and downward directions.

[0022] The terminology used herein is intended to describe embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating the construction of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the construction of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] The secondary battery 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include at least one electrode assembly, a housing 20 and a cover assembly 30, wherein the at least one electrode assembly is formed by winding a positive electrode 11 and a negative electrode 12 with a separator 13 as an insulator disposed therebetween, the electrode assembly being built into or housed in the housing 20, and the cover assembly 30 being coupled to an opening in the housing 20.

[0026] Here, the secondary battery 100 is described as an example of a prismatic lithium-ion secondary battery. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and the secondary battery 100 may be, for example, a lithium polymer battery or a cylindrical battery.

[0027] The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 may include coated portions and uncoated portions 11a and 12a. The coated portions are areas of the current collector formed by a sheet of metal foil coated with active material, and the uncoated portions 11a and 12a are areas of the current collector not coated with active material.

[0028] In one embodiment, the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 may be wound together with a diaphragm 13, which serves as an insulator, placed between them. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly may have a structure in which positive and negative electrodes formed of multiple sheets are stacked alternately with a diaphragm placed between them.

[0029] The housing 20 forms the overall appearance of the secondary battery 100 and can be made of a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. Furthermore, the housing 20 provides space to accommodate the electrode assembly.

[0030] The cover assembly 30 may include a cover plate 31 that covers the opening of the housing 20, and the housing 20 and the cover plate 31 may be made of a conductive material. Here, the terminal 21 electrically connected to the positive electrode 11 or the negative electrode 12 may be mounted to pass through the cover plate 31 and protrude outward.

[0031] In an embodiment, a pair of terminals 21 can be formed protruding outward from the cover plate 31. The pair of terminals 21 can be connected to the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 respectively, and can be used as the positive and negative terminals of the secondary battery 100.

[0032] In an embodiment, terminal 21 may be electrically connected to current collectors, which include a first current collector 40 and a second current collector 50 (hereinafter referred to as the positive electrode current collector and the negative electrode current collector) welded and bonded to the uncoated positive electrode portion 11a and the uncoated negative electrode portion 12a. For example, a pair of terminals 21 may be welded to the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50, respectively. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and in an embodiment, terminal 21, as well as the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50, may be integrally formed. In an embodiment, the outer surface of the upper post of terminal 21 may be threaded and may be secured to cover plate 31 with a nut.

[0033] However, the invention is not limited thereto, and in the embodiments, the terminal 21 may be formed with a rivet structure and may be riveted or welded to the cover plate 31.

[0034] In an embodiment, the cover plate 31 may be made of a thin plate and incorporated into the opening of the housing 20, and an electrolyte inlet 32 ​​may be formed in the cover plate 31 in which a sealing cover 33 may be installed, and an exhaust port 34 may be installed.

[0035] The vent 34 can open and close in response to changes in the internal pressure of the housing 20. That is, during normal operation of the electrode assembly, the vent 34 can remain closed to seal the housing 20. The vent 34 can open when the internal pressure of the housing 20 rises to a set amount or higher due to overcharging or ignition, and discharges emissions such as flames and gases from the inside of the housing 20 to the outside.

[0036] Furthermore, an insulating member may be installed between the electrode assembly and the cover plate 31. In an embodiment, the insulating member may include a first lower insulating member 60 and a second lower insulating member 70, and each of the first lower insulating member 60 and the second lower insulating member 70 may be installed between the electrode assembly and the cover plate 31.

[0037] Furthermore, according to an embodiment, the end of the separating member, which can be mounted opposite to the side of the electrode assembly, can be mounted between the insulating member and the terminal 21.

[0038] In an embodiment, the separation member may include a first separation member 80 and a second separation member 90.

[0039] Therefore, the first separation member 80 and the second separation member 90, which can be mounted opposite to the side of the electrode assembly, can be installed between the first lower insulating member 60 and the second lower insulating member 70 and the positive electrode terminal 21 and the negative electrode terminal 21.

[0040] As a result, the terminals 21 welded and bonded to the positive electrode current collector 40 and the negative electrode current collector 50 can be bonded to the first end of the first lower insulating member 60 and the first end of the second lower insulating member 70, as well as the first end of the first separating member 80 and the first end of the second separating member 90.

[0041] Figure 3 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] exist Figure 3 The diagram illustrates a battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] exist Figure 3 In the diagram, the X-axis indicates the width of the battery module 1000, the Y-axis indicates the length (or longitudinal direction) of the battery module 1000, and the Z-axis indicates the height of the battery module 1000.

[0044] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery module 1000 includes a plurality of secondary batteries 100, a housing 200 for storing the plurality of secondary batteries 100, and a first support 210, the first support 210 passing through at least two of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 in a first direction and having a first end and a second end respectively engaged to the housing 200.

[0045] The battery module 1000 includes multiple secondary batteries 100. The secondary batteries 100 can be used as a unit structure to store and provide power in the battery module 1000.

[0046] The secondary battery 100, for example, includes a secondary battery casing 20 formed in a prismatic shape. However, the shape of the secondary battery 100 applicable to the battery module 1000 according to embodiments of the present invention is not limited to this. Here, an example of a secondary battery 100 included in the battery module 1000 being formed in a prismatic shape will be described.

[0047] Multiple secondary batteries 100 are disposed inside the housing 200. In this configuration, the housing 200 forms the overall appearance of the battery module 1000. The housing 200 can be used as a component to support the multiple secondary batteries 100 as a whole.

[0048] Multiple secondary batteries 100 are arranged inside the housing 200 along a first direction.

[0049] The first direction can be the same as the length direction (Y-axis) of the battery module 1000. For example, the secondary battery 100 includes a first side surface and a second side surface opposite to each other. In an embodiment, the first side surface and the second side surface include large side surfaces of the secondary battery 100. For example, each of a plurality of secondary batteries 100 can be configured such that its first side surface faces the second side surface of an adjacent secondary battery. In this case, the first direction is the direction from the first side surface toward the second side surface. In this case, the first direction is the direction in which the maximum volume change of the secondary battery 100 occurs when the secondary battery 100 expands.

[0050] In one embodiment, a plurality of secondary batteries 100 may be arranged in m or more rows in a second direction inside the housing 200. Here, m is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0051] The second direction can be the same as the width direction (X-axis) of the battery module 1000.

[0052] For example, the plurality of secondary batteries 100 may include two or more battery assemblies arranged in a first direction, and the two or more battery assemblies may be arranged in two or more rows in a second direction. However, the number and arrangement of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 are not limited thereto, and may vary to have various numbers and arrangements.

[0053] Multiple secondary batteries 100 may exhibit expansion behavior during repeated charging and discharging. In this case, since the battery module 1000 includes multiple secondary batteries 100 arranged in the first direction, if the secondary batteries 100 exhibit expansion behavior, the thickness of the battery module 1000 also increases in the first direction. In this case, the casing 200 storing the multiple secondary batteries 100 receives high expansion forces.

[0054] Therefore, the battery module 1000 includes a first support 210 inside the housing 200 to constrain expansion caused by all or some of the plurality of secondary batteries 100. The battery module 1000 can constrain the force causing the secondary batteries 100 to expand in a first direction by means of the first support 210.

[0055] The first support 210 is configured to pass through at least two of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 in a first direction. As described above, the first direction is, for example, a direction parallel to the direction in which the plurality of secondary batteries 100 are arranged in a row. For example, the first support 210 may be positioned to pass through between two battery assemblies.

[0056] The first bracket 210 is engaged to the housing 200. The first bracket 210 has a first end engaged to a first side of the housing 200 and a second end engaged to a second side of the housing 200. For example, the first bracket 210 can be engaged to the housing 200 by welding.

[0057] The first bracket 210 enables the housing 200 to enhance its restraint against the expansion of the secondary battery 100. For example, the first bracket 210 can prevent or substantially prevent the volume expansion of the battery module 1000 without the need for separate straps or components.

[0058] With this construction, the battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention improves the constraint of the housing 200 and / or enables the housing 200 to protect the secondary battery 100.

[0059] In this embodiment, the battery module 1000 may further include a cooling plate 250, a lifting bracket 260, and / or a second support 270. Each component of the battery module 1000 will be described in further detail here.

[0060] Figure 4 This is a perspective view schematically showing the casing of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] like Figure 4 As shown, the housing 200 forms the overall appearance of the battery module 1000. The housing 200 can be used as a component to support multiple secondary batteries 100 as a whole.

[0062] The housing 200 may also include an end plate 220 and a lower plate 230. The housing 200 may also include a side plate 240.

[0063] The lower plate 230 forms the lower surface of the housing 200. Therefore, the lower plate 230 can be disposed below the secondary battery 100. The lower plate 230 supports a plurality of secondary batteries 100 from below. In an embodiment, the housing 200 includes a plurality of prismatic secondary batteries 100, and the lower plate 230 can be formed in a generally quadrilateral shape. In an embodiment, the lower plate 230 is formed to be relatively long in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis) of the battery module 1000 and relatively short in the width direction (X-axis) of the battery module 1000. Therefore, the lower plate 230 can support a plurality of secondary batteries 100 arranged in a first direction from below.

[0064] End plates 220 form part of a plurality of side surfaces of housing 200. For example, a pair of end plates 220 may be disposed on the outer surfaces of two sides or opposite sides of housing 200.

[0065] For example, end plate 220 may be formed as a flat plate. End plate 220 is coupled to at least one side of lower plate 230 to form part of a plurality of side surfaces of housing 200. For example, end plate 220 may be coupled vertically to the short side of lower plate 230. In embodiments, for example, end plate 220 includes a pair of end plates 220a, 220b coupled to the short sides of a pair of lower plates 230.

[0066] In an embodiment, for example, end plate 220 extends from lower plate 230. For example, end plate 220 extends from a shorter side of lower plate 230. End plate 220 bends and extends from lower plate 230. For example, end plate 220 bends and extends from lower plate 230 in a vertical direction. Therefore, end plate 220 can form a side surface on the side surface of housing 200 located in the length direction (Y-axis) of battery module 1000.

[0067] End plate 220 supports both ends or opposite ends of a plurality of secondary batteries 100. For example, end plate 220 supports both ends or opposite ends of a plurality of secondary batteries 100 arranged in a first direction.

[0068] End plate 220 includes a first end plate 220a and a second end plate 220b facing the first end plate 220a. End plate 220 can face each of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 located at both ends or opposite ends of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 arranged in a first direction. For example, the first end plate 220a can face a secondary battery 100 located at a first end of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 in the first direction, and the second end plate 220b can face a secondary battery 100 located at a second end of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 in the first direction.

[0069] Side plate 240 forms another portion of the plurality of side surfaces of housing 200. Side plate 240 extends from lower plate 230. For example, side plate 240 extends from a side formed as a length in lower plate 230. In an embodiment, side plate 240 is bent and extends from lower plate 230, for example, side plate 240 is bent and extends from lower plate 230 in a vertical direction. Side plate 240 may be located between two end plates 220. Thus, side plate 240 may form a side surface located in the width direction (X-axis) of battery module 1000 at the side surface of housing 200.

[0070] The side panel 240 includes a first side panel 240a and a second side panel 240b facing each other.

[0071] In addition, end plate 220 and side plate 240 can form the side surface of housing 200.

[0072] The first support 210 is engaged with the end plate 220. For example, the first support 210 has a first end engaged with the first end plate 220a and a second end engaged with the second end plate 220b.

[0073] In one embodiment, for example, the first bracket 210 is welded to the end plate 220 to form a welded portion W. Therefore, the first bracket 210 can support the end plate 220 so that the end plate 220 is not pushed outward by the volume expansion of the secondary battery 100. For example, the first bracket 210 can be positioned transversely across the interior of the housing 200 to support two end plates 220a, 220b located on either side or opposite sides of the housing 200. Therefore, even if the secondary battery 100 pushes the housing 200 in a first direction, the first bracket 210 can support the housing 200 in a direction opposite to the force exerted by the secondary battery 100 on the housing 200.

[0074] In an embodiment, the battery module 1000 may further include a second bracket 270 that passes through at least two of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 in a second direction and is formed by joining a first end and a second end to a housing 200.

[0075] The second bracket 270 has a first end that engages with the first side plate 240a and a second end that engages with the second side plate 240b. The second bracket 270 can be secured to the side plate 240 by any of a variety of joining methods (e.g., bolting, welding, assembly, etc.). Therefore, the second bracket 270 can support the housing 200 in a second direction.

[0076] The first support 210 and the second support 270 can be configured to intersect each other. For example, the first support 210 can be configured parallel to the length direction (Y-axis) of the housing 200. For example, the second support 270 can be configured parallel to the width direction (X-axis) of the housing 200. For example, the second support 270 can be configured perpendicular to the first support 210. Therefore, the second support 270 can support the first support 210 while helping the housing 200 maintain its frame.

[0077] Figure 5 This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 3 A magnified perspective view of the area "P".

[0078] Figure 6 This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 3 A magnified perspective view of the area "P".

[0079] A battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a secondary battery 100, a housing 200, and a first support 210. The housing 200 may further include an end plate 220 and a lower plate 230. The housing 200 may also include a side plate 240. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The characteristics of the engagement between the first support 210 and the housing 200 will be described in further detail below.

[0080] In one embodiment, the first support 210 includes a main body 211 and a bent portion 212.

[0081] The main body 211 is formed in the shape of a plate. The main body 211 is formed to extend in a first direction. Therefore, the main body 211 is formed to extend in the direction in which the plurality of secondary batteries 100 are arranged.

[0082] The main body 211 passes between at least two of the plurality of secondary batteries 100. For example, the main body 211 passes between two battery assemblies. The main body 211 has a first side formed facing the first end plate 220a and a second side formed facing the second end plate 220b. Furthermore, the main body 211 may be formed in a direction perpendicular to the lower plate 230.

[0083] The bend 212 is connected to the main body 211. The bend 212 is formed, for example, on a first side and / or a second side of the main body 211. The bend 212 bends from the main body 211 to form the end of the first support 210.

[0084] The bending portion 212 includes a first bending portion that bends from the main body portion 211 in one direction (e.g., any direction) and a second bending portion that bends in the opposite direction to the first bending portion. The first bending portion and the second bending portion can be connected to each other to form a flat surface, and the flat surface can be parallel to the end plate 220.

[0085] The bend 212 is joined to the end plate 220. For example, a first bend can be welded to the end plate 220 to form a first weld W1. For example, a second bend can be welded to the end plate 220 to form a second weld W2. Thus, the bend 212 can weld the first support 210 and the end plate 220 so that the first support 210 can support the end plate 220.

[0086] like Figure 5 As shown, for example, housing 200 may include a pair of end plates 220.

[0087] In an embodiment, for example, the housing 200 includes a pair of end plates 220 located at a first end and a second end of a plurality of secondary batteries 100. For example, secondary batteries 100 arranged in one or more rows may have a first end plate 220a located at a first end and a second end plate 220b located at a second end.

[0088] Therefore, for example, one or more first supports 210 may support the end plate 220 at its ends. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, a first bracket 210 can support a pair of end plates 220 at both ends or opposite ends.

[0089] In an embodiment, such as Figure 6 As shown, for example, housing 200 may include a pair or more opposite end plates 220.

[0090] For example, if multiple secondary batteries 100 are arranged in n rows (where n is an integer greater than or equal to 1), then endplate 220 may include m pairs of endplates (where m is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to n). In this case, first endplate 220a may include m first endplates. Furthermore, second endplate 220b may include m second endplates.

[0091] For example, when the secondary batteries 100 are arranged in multiple rows, the housing 200 may include multiple pairs of end plates 220. For example, when the secondary batteries 100 are arranged in two rows, the end plates 220 may include one or two pairs of end plates. For example, if the secondary batteries 100 are arranged in three rows, the end plates 220 may include one, two, or three pairs of end plates.

[0092] For example, such as Figure 6As shown, the secondary batteries 100 can be arranged in two rows. In this case, one end plate 2201 (referred to herein as the first row end plate) can be located at the end of the secondary batteries 100 arranged in the first row. That is, a pair of first row end plates 2201 can be provided at each end of the secondary batteries 100 arranged in the first row. In addition, another end plate 2202 (referred to herein as the second row end plate) can be located on one side of the secondary batteries 100 arranged in the second row. That is, a pair of second row end plates 2202 can be provided on both sides or opposite sides of the secondary batteries 100 arranged in the second row.

[0093] In other words, if multiple secondary batteries 100 are arranged in two rows, the first end plate 220a and the second end plate 220b can respectively include two first row end plates 2201 and two second row end plates 2202.

[0094] Therefore, for example, the first support 210 may support two or more end plates 220 at its ends. In an embodiment, for example, the first support 210 includes a first-direction bend 2121 bent in a first direction at its ends and a second-direction bend 2122 bent in a second direction at its ends. In this case, the first-direction bend 2121 and the second-direction bend 2122 may be opposite to each other. In this case, for example, the first-direction bend 2121 may support a first row end plate 2201, and the second-direction bend 2122 may support a second row end plate 2202.

[0095] With this construction, the housing 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention can increase the restraint on the secondary battery 100.

[0096] In one embodiment, the housing 200 may further include a cooling plate 250.

[0097] The cooling plate 250 can be disposed inside the housing 200. For example, the cooling plate 250 can be disposed below multiple secondary batteries 100. For example, the cooling plate 250 can be disposed on the lower plate 230 or disposed inside the lower plate 230.

[0098] The cooling plate 250 may include cooling flow paths (not shown) in which cooling fluid flows. The cooling fluid may include any of a variety of heat exchange media. The cooling fluid may include, for example, liquids (such as water and insulating oil) and gases.

[0099] The cooling flow path provides a flow path for cooling fluid supplied from the outside. The cooling flow path cools the secondary battery 100 through heat exchange between the cooling fluid flowing therein and the secondary battery 100. The cooling flow path can extend in a zigzag shape within the cooling plate 250, allowing the cooling fluid to circulate throughout the entire area of ​​the cooling plate 250.

[0100] In an embodiment, the cooling plate 250 may include a metallic material with high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum, but the materials included in the cooling plate 250 are not limited to this.

[0101] With the above structure, the battery module 1000 can be provided with a method to increase the support of the housing 200 without deforming the various structures of the housing 200 or subjecting it to additional processes through the first bracket 210.

[0102] Figure 7 This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 3 A magnified perspective view of the area "P".

[0103] A battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a secondary battery 100, a housing 200, and a first bracket 210. The housing 200 includes a lower plate 230, a side plate 240, and an end bracket 220'. Figure 7 In China, it will be through cooperation with Figure 5 and Figure 6 Different examples further describe in detail the characteristics of the engagement between the first support 210 and the housing 200.

[0104] In one embodiment, the first support 210 includes a main body 211 and a bent portion 212. The description of the main body 211 and the bent portion 212 is consistent with... Figure 5 The same or similar as described in the text.

[0105] The end bracket 220' forms the side surface of the housing 200 and supports both ends or opposite ends of the plurality of secondary batteries 100. That is, with... Figure 5 Unlike the description, housing 200 may include end bracket 220' instead of end plate 220. First bracket 210 may be engaged to end bracket 220'. For example, first bracket 210 may be engaged to end bracket 220' by welding bend 212 to end bracket 220'.

[0106] In an embodiment, the end bracket 220' may include the same material as that included in the first bracket 210. The end bracket 220' may include a material with high bending stiffness. For example, the end bracket 220' may include aluminum (Al), stainless steel (SUS), iron (Fe), premium cold-drawn steel sheet (SPCE), or a combination thereof.

[0107] The end bracket 220' includes an end body portion 220'a and an end bending portion 220'b.

[0108] The end body portion 220'a forms the side surface of the housing 200. The end body portion 220'a supports the two ends or opposite ends of a plurality of secondary batteries. The end body portion 220'a is engaged with the first bracket 210.

[0109] In one embodiment, the end bend 220'b bends and extends from the end body 220'a. The end bend 220'b is joined to the side plate 240. For example, the end bend 220'b bends from the end body 220'a and is formed parallel to the direction of extension of the side plate 240. The end bend 220'b may extend parallel to the side plate 240 and may be joined to the side plate 240. For example, the end bend 220'b is welded on one side to the first side plate 240a to form a third welded portion W3, and on the other side to the second side plate 240b to form a fourth welded portion W4.

[0110] Therefore, the end bracket 220' can be securely fixed to the housing 200.

[0111] In one embodiment, the housing 200 may further include an end block 280.

[0112] End block 280 can be disposed between secondary battery 100 and end bracket 220'. Therefore, end block 280 can assist end bracket 220' in supporting secondary battery 100 and prevent or substantially prevent deformation of housing 200.

[0113] For example, end block 280 may be formed in a plate shape. In an embodiment, for example, end block 280 may be formed to have a size smaller than or equal to that of end support 220'. End block 280 may support end support 220' on the inner surface of end support 220'.

[0114] For example, if multiple secondary batteries 100 are arranged in n rows (where n is an integer greater than or equal to 1), then end block 280 may include l pairs of end blocks (where l is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to n). That is, a pair of end blocks 280 can be set for each row or some rows of the multiple secondary batteries 100.

[0115] In an embodiment, for example, the end block 280 may be formed in a rod shape. In this case, the length direction of the end block 280 is formed, for example, in the X-axis direction. One or more end blocks 280 may be located on the inner surface of the end bracket 220' and may support the end bracket 220'. In this case, if two or more end blocks 280 are positioned, each end block 280 may be located at a different height on the surface of the end bracket 220'. In this case, the end block 280 may be fixed inside the housing 200 by engaging with the bend 212. In an embodiment, the end block may be engaged with the end bracket 220' and fixed inside the housing 200.

[0116] End block 280 may include, for example, the same material as end bracket 220'. End block 280 may include, for example, aluminum (Al), stainless steel (SUS), iron (Fe), premium cold-drawn steel sheet (SPCE), or a combination thereof.

[0117] Thus, the end block 280 can be located between the end support 220' and the secondary battery 100, and can serve as a spacer at the end of the secondary battery 100. In addition, the end block 280 can further help prevent or substantially prevent local deformation of the housing 200 and / or the battery module 1000.

[0118] The battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a cooling plate 250.

[0119] The housing 200 may also include a cooling plate 250. The cooling plate 250 may be disposed inside the housing 200. For example, the cooling plate 250 may be disposed on the lower plate 230 or may be disposed inside the lower plate 230.

[0120] Cooling plate 250 may include a cooling flow path (not shown) that provides a flow path for cooling fluid supplied from the outside. For example, cooling plate 250 may allow refrigerant supplied through inlet / outlet 251 to flow along the cooling flow path, and the refrigerant after heat exchange to be discharged to the outside through inlet / outlet 251. A description of the cooling flow path can be found in reference to... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The descriptions are the same or similar.

[0121] The end bracket 220' can cover the inlet / outlet 251 of the cooling flow path and can be located on the inlet / outlet 251 of the cooling flow path. In this way, the end bracket 220' can provide a structure that protects the inlet / outlet 251 of the cooling flow path.

[0122] The inlet / outlet 251 may be formed in the lower part of the end support 220' to connect to the cooling flow path, and may be formed, for example, in a tube shape through the end support 220'. However, the location and / or shape of the inlet / outlet 251 are not limited thereto.

[0123] With this structure, the battery module 1000 can further improve the effect of the first bracket 210 in supporting the housing 200. Even if all or some of the multiple secondary batteries 100 are in an expanded state, the battery module 1000 can provide a method for increasing the supporting force of the housing 200.

[0124] Figure 8 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] As in Figures 3 to 7As described in the article, the battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of secondary batteries 100, a housing 200 for storing the plurality of secondary batteries 100, and a first support 210 coupled to the housing 200 and disposed inside the housing 200.

[0126] When the multiple secondary batteries 100 expand due to charging and discharging and / or degradation, all or some of the multiple secondary batteries 100 will expand along the same axis as the length direction (Y-axis) of the battery module 1000. Therefore, the housing 200 will receive forces that cause the secondary batteries 100 to expand in directions A and A'.

[0127] The first support 210 can support the outer casing 200 in a direction opposite to the expansion direction of the secondary battery 100, thereby constraining the expansion of the secondary battery 100. For example, the first support 210 can support the outer casing 200 in directions B and B', thereby constraining the expansion of the secondary battery 100.

[0128] In an embodiment, the first support 210 may have a tension greater than or equal to a specific strength (e.g., a predetermined strength). In this case, the predetermined strength is greater than or equal to the strength of the expansion force generated by the secondary battery 100. For example, if the first support 210 comprises a galvanized steel sheet, the first support 210 may have a tension of 30,000 N or greater.

[0129] Furthermore, the first support 210 can be formed sufficiently thin. When the first support 210 is formed thick, the volume and / or weight of the battery module 1000 increases, and the capacity of the secondary battery 100 relative to its volume decreases. Therefore, in an embodiment, to form the first support 210 thinly, it can be manufactured by a pressing process. In an embodiment, the first support 210 can be formed to have a thickness of 0.5 mm or greater. For example, the first support 210 can be formed to have a thickness of 1.0 mm or greater. On the other hand, if the first support 210 is formed to have a thickness of less than 0.5 mm, it may not be able to provide sufficient support for the housing 200. Therefore, in an embodiment, the first support 210 is formed to have a thickness of 0.5 mm or greater.

[0130] In this configuration, as the thickness of the first bracket 210 increases in the width direction (X-axis) of the battery module, the height of the battery module in the height direction (Z-axis) can decrease. For example, the height of the first bracket 210 can be set based on its thickness to meet a predetermined or higher strength of tension. Table 1 below shows some examples of the first bracket 210 being designed with various thicknesses and / or heights.

[0131] Table 1

[0132] As shown in Table 1, the first support 210 can be formed with various thicknesses and / or heights to satisfy a certain (e.g., predetermined) strength of tension (N). Therefore, the first support 210 can provide sufficient support for the housing 200.

[0133] In this way, a battery module 1000 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention may include a structure that constrains expansion without requiring separate sub-module processes or separate components for constraining expansion.

[0134] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 3 A magnified perspective view of the area "Q".

[0135] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 3 A magnified bottom perspective view of the area "Q".

[0136] Figures 3 to 8 The battery module 1000 described in the embodiment of the present invention may further include a lifting frame 260. The lifting frame 260 allows the battery module 1000 to be transported. For example, the lifting frame 260 may be suspended on a hook to enable the transport of the battery module 1000 when it is to be transported.

[0137] In one embodiment, a lifting bracket 260 is formed on at least a portion of the lower part of the housing 200. In another embodiment, for example, the lifting bracket 260 is attached to the lower surface of the lower plate 230. The lifting bracket 260 can be attached to the lower plate 230 by any of various types of joining methods, such as bolting 260a, welding, assembly, etc. The lifting bracket 260 is formed on the lower part of the housing 200 to allow for the safe transport of the battery module 1000.

[0138] The battery module 1000 may include multiple lifting brackets 260. In this case, the multiple lifting brackets 260 may be appropriately spaced apart from each other so that the weight of the heavy-duty battery module 1000 is evenly distributed.

[0139] In one embodiment, the lifting bracket 260 includes a first portion 261 coupled to a side surface of the lower plate 230, a second portion 262 bent from the first portion 261 and extending to be coupled to a lower surface of the lower plate 230, and a slot 263. In this case, the slot 263 forms a groove, such as a hook, that can be inserted into and secured to the lifting bracket 260.

[0140] With this structure, the battery module 1000 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention can be safely transported.

[0141] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a battery module is provided that limits its expansion while reducing material costs.

[0142] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a battery module is provided that constrains its expansion while improving process efficiency.

[0143] However, the aspects and effects obtained by the present invention are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other technical aspects and effects not mentioned from the description of the invention.

[0144] Therefore, the scope of technical protection of an invention should be defined by the patent claims.

Claims

1. A battery module, the battery module comprising: Multiple secondary batteries; The outer casing houses the plurality of secondary batteries; as well as A first support is arranged to pass through at least two of the plurality of secondary batteries in a first direction and includes a first end and a second end that are engaged with the housing.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first direction is parallel to the direction in which the plurality of secondary batteries are arranged in a row.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The outer casing includes: The lower plate defines the lower surface of the housing; and End plates define the side surfaces of the housing and support the opposing ends of the plurality of secondary batteries. The end plates include a first end plate and a second end plate that are opposite to each other.

4. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein, The first bracket includes a first end that engages with the first end plate and a second end that engages with the second end plate.

5. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein, The first support includes: The main body passes through the space between at least two of the plurality of secondary batteries; and A bent portion, connected to the main body, bends from the main body and is located at the end of the first bracket. The bent portion is welded to the end plate, such that the end plate is supported by the first bracket.

6. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein, The plurality of secondary batteries are arranged in n rows, where n is an integer greater than or equal to 1, and The end plate includes m pairs of end plates, where m is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to n.

7. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The outer casing includes: The lower plate defines the lower surface of the outer casing; Side plates define the side surfaces of the housing and support the opposing sides of the plurality of secondary batteries; and The end bracket defines the side surface of the housing and supports the opposite ends of the plurality of secondary batteries. The end bracket is made of the same material as the first bracket.

8. The battery module according to claim 7, wherein, Each of the end supports includes: The end body portion supports the ends of the plurality of secondary batteries; and An end bend is connected to the end body portion, bends from the end body portion, and joins to the side plate.

9. The battery module according to claim 7, wherein, The battery module also includes a cooling plate, which includes cooling flow paths, and The end bracket covers the inlet / outlet of the cooling flow path and is located on the cooling flow path.

10. The battery module according to claim 7, wherein, The housing also includes an end block, which is disposed between one of the end supports and the secondary battery and supports the end supports.

11. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first support is formed by a pressing process.

12. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first support is designed to withstand a tension of 30,000 N or greater.

13. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first support has a thickness of 1.0 mm or greater.

14. The battery module of claim 1, further comprising a second support arranged to pass through at least two of the plurality of secondary batteries in a second direction, and including a first end and a second end engaged with the housing. The second direction is different from the first direction.

15. The battery module according to claim 14, wherein, The outer casing includes: The lower plate defines the lower surface of the housing; and Side plates define the side surfaces of the housing and support the opposing sides of the plurality of secondary batteries. The side panels include a first side panel and a second side panel that are opposite to each other. Wherein, the first side plate is joined to the first end of the second bracket, and The second side plate is joined to the second end of the second bracket.

16. The battery module according to claim 1, the battery module further comprising a lifting bracket, the lifting bracket being on at least a portion of the lower part of the housing and including a slot.

17. The battery module according to claim 1, the battery module further comprising a cooling plate, the cooling plate being disposed below the plurality of secondary batteries in the housing, and comprising a cooling flow path in which cooling fluid flows.

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