Secondary battery testing device and penetration pin alignment mechanism

Abstract

The invention discloses a secondary battery testing device and a penetration pin alignment mechanism. The secondary battery testing apparatus includes: a support separator configured to contact one side surface of a battery cell for an internal short circuit test; a penetrating separator opposite to the supporting separator and configured to contact another side surface of the battery cell opposite to the one side surface, the penetrating separator having an access opening extending through the penetrating separator toward the supporting separator; a partition plate connector connecting the support partition plate and the penetrating partition plate to each other and maintaining a gap between the support partition plate and the penetrating partition plate; the alignment mechanism is mounted on the penetrating partition plate and is provided with a nail guide, and the nail guide corresponds to the inlet opening and is provided with a guide channel; and a nail configured to penetrate the battery cell through the guide channel, thereby causing an electrical short circuit of the battery cell.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of this disclosure relate to a secondary battery testing apparatus and a through-pin alignment mechanism for short-circuit testing of a secondary battery. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which are not designed for charging, secondary batteries are designed for both charging and discharging. Generally, a secondary battery includes an electrode assembly, including electrode plates containing positive and negative electrodes (or formed from electrode plates containing positive and negative electrodes); a housing housing the electrode assembly; electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly; and an exhaust section for venting excess gas generated inside the housing, etc.

[0003] Recently, the capacity of secondary batteries used to drive motors and for storing electricity in hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, and the like has been increasing. High-capacity batteries place particularly high demands on safety. For example, in the case of electric vehicles, accidents can occur where external objects damage the battery casing and penetrate or puncture the electrode assemblies within. In such cases, the negative electrode may come into contact with the positive electrode in the electrode assembly, causing a very high short-circuit current to flow between them, potentially leading to battery overheating, thermal runaway, and / or explosion.

[0004] Given these safety requirements for secondary batteries, penetration safety is included in the safety evaluation of secondary batteries, and penetration tests are frequently performed on them. A secondary battery penetration test involves striking the electrode plates of the electrode assembly with a nail after the secondary battery has been charged, aiming to partially or completely penetrate the electrode plates.

[0005] Penetration test noise can occur during penetration testing due to misalignment of the battery and nail. Penetration test noise can significantly reduce the accuracy of penetration tests.

[0006] The information disclosed in this background section is intended to enhance the understanding of the background art of this disclosure, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute related (or prior art). Summary of the Invention

[0007] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a secondary battery testing apparatus and a penetration pin alignment mechanism for short-circuit testing of secondary batteries, which ensure accurate safety evaluation by avoiding (or resolving) misalignment in the penetration evaluation apparatus during battery penetration evaluation.

[0008] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a secondary battery testing apparatus includes: a support separator configured to contact one side surface of a battery cell for internal short-circuit testing; a penetrating separator opposite to the support separator and configured to contact another side surface of the battery cell opposite to the one side surface, the penetrating separator having an entry opening facing the support separator; a separator connector connecting the support separator and the penetrating separator and maintaining a gap between the support separator and the penetrating separator; an alignment mechanism on the penetrating separator and having a nail guide corresponding to the entry opening and providing a guide channel; and a nail configured to pass through the guide channel into the battery cell, thereby causing an electrical short circuit in the battery cell.

[0009] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, a penetration pin alignment mechanism for a secondary battery short-circuit test contacts a battery cell for an internal short-circuit test and is mounted on a penetration septum having an access opening to face the battery cell, and includes: a pin guide corresponding to the access opening and having a linearly extending guide channel; and a body that receives and supports the pin guide.

[0010] The aspects and features of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following description of this disclosure other aspects and features not specifically mentioned herein. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The above and other aspects and features of this disclosure will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description of embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 This is a top perspective view of the exterior of a prismatic battery cell to be tested using a test apparatus according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0013] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from line AA in the diagram;

[0014] Figure 3 It is arranged with Figure 1 A perspective view of a battery module showing individual battery cells;

[0015] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of a secondary battery pack including the secondary battery module;

[0016] Figure 5 It shows the installation in the vehicle. Figure 4 The diagram shows a concept of a secondary battery pack.

[0017] Figure 6This is a perspective view showing a secondary battery testing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An exploded perspective view of the test apparatus shown in the figure;

[0019] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing a penetrating pin alignment mechanism for short-circuit testing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The front view of the alignment mechanism shown in the image;

[0021] Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of line DD in the diagram;

[0022] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating a method of using a secondary battery testing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 12 This is a partially sectional exploded perspective view showing a secondary battery testing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 13 This is an example Figure 12 The diagram shows how to use the testing apparatus;

[0025] Figure 14 This is a diagram of a secondary battery testing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The cross-sectional view of the penetrating partition is shown in the figure;

[0027] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of a through-pin alignment mechanism according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating a penetrating pin alignment mechanism according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of a nail suitable for a testing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 19 This is an example Figure 18 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of how the nail is used; and

[0031] Figure 20 The voltage values ​​are shown for normal penetration with no noise on the left and abnormal penetration with noise on the right. Detailed Implementation

[0032] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted narrowly according to their general or dictionary meaning, but rather should be interpreted based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of the terms for his / her own lexicographer in order to best describe his / her invention, and thus have meanings and concepts consistent with the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

[0033] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the figures are merely some embodiments of this disclosure and do not represent all aspects, features, and embodiments of this disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that at the time of filing this application, various equivalents and modifications that can replace or modify one or more embodiments or features described herein may exist.

[0034] It will be understood that if an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, "connected to," or "linked to" another element or layer, then it can be directly on, connected to, or linked to the other element or layer, or one or more intermediary elements or layers may exist. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on" another element or layer, "directly connected to," or "directly linked to" another element or layer, no intermediary element or layer exists. For example, if a first element is described as being "linked" or "connected" to a second element, then the first element can be directly linked to or connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly linked to or connected to the second element via one or more intermediary elements.

[0035] In the figures, for clarity of illustration, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be enlarged. The same reference numerals denote the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of this disclosure, the use of "may" refers to "one or more embodiments of this disclosure." Expressions such as "at least one of" and "any one of" modify the entire column of elements if following a column of elements, and do not modify individual elements of the column. When phrases such as "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "at least one selected from the group of A, B, and C," or "at least one selected from A, B, and C" are used to specify a column of elements A, B, and C, the phrase may refer to any and all suitable combinations or subsets of A, B, and C, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the term "use" may be considered synonymous with the term "utilize." As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree, and are intended to take into account the inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0036] It will be understood that while the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or segment from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, area, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, area, layer, or segment.

[0037] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” and “above” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature illustrated in the figures and another element or feature. It will be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, other than those depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would then be oriented as “above” or “above” other elements or features. Therefore, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0038] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form “a” is also intended to include the plural form. It will be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including”, if used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0039] Furthermore, any numerical ranges disclosed and / or enumerated herein are intended to include all subranges with the same numerical precision contained within the enumerated ranges. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between (and including) the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0, i.e., a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit enumerated herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit enumerated in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly enumerate any subranges contained within the scope expressly enumerated herein. All such ranges are intended to be described inherently in this specification such that any modification to the express enumeration of any such subranges will comply with the requirements of patent law.

[0040] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” can mean that they are “substantially the same.” Therefore, the phrase “substantially the same” can include cases with a deviation considered low in the art, such as about 5% or less. Furthermore, if a parameter is said to be consistent in a given region, this can mean that it is consistent in terms of average value.

[0041] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be a single element or a plurality of elements.

[0042] Placing any element "above (or below)" or "on (below)" another element means that the arbitrary element can contact the upper (or lower) surface of the element, and the other element can be located between the element and any element located above (or below) the element.

[0043] Additionally, it will be understood that if a component is referred to as a “link,” “connect,” or “attached” to another component, then these components may be directly “connected,” “linked,” or “attached” to each other, or another component may be “between” these components.

[0044] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, the statement "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B. That is, "and / or" includes any or all combinations of the listed items. Unless otherwise stated, the statement "C to D" means C and below D.

[0045] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0046] Figure 1This is an external top perspective view of a prismatic battery cell 15 to be tested using a test apparatus according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0047] The housing 15a defines the overall appearance of the prismatic secondary battery and may be made of (or may include) a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. The housing 15a provides (or may form) space for accommodating electrode assemblies therein.

[0048] The cover assembly 15b may include a cover plate 15c that covers (e.g., seals) an opening in the housing 15a. In some embodiments, the housing 15a and the cover plate 15c may be made of a conductive material. A first terminal 15d and a second terminal 15e may be electrically connected to corresponding positive and negative electrodes (or negative and positive electrodes) inside the housing 15a and may be mounted such that they protrude outward through the cover plate 15c.

[0049] The cover plate 15c may have an electrolyte injection port 15f and a gas vent (e.g., a gas vent opening) 15g. An exhaust portion (e.g., a gas venting device) 15h may be engaged with the gas vent 15g (e.g., it may be installed in the gas vent 15g). The gas venting device 15h is opened by gas generated inside the housing 15a (e.g., in response to the gas) and performs an exhaust function.

[0050] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line AA in the diagram.

[0051] The electrode assembly 15r can be formed by winding or stacking a stack of a first electrode plate, a diaphragm, and a second electrode plate, both of which are formed as thin plates or films. When the electrode assembly 15r is a wound stack, the winding axis can be parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing 15a. In other embodiments, the electrode assembly 15r is a stack type rather than a wound type, and the shape of the electrode assembly 15r is not limited in this disclosure.

[0052] Alternatively, the electrode assembly 15r can be a Z-stacked electrode assembly, wherein a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate are inserted into opposite sides (e.g., opposite sides) of a diaphragm, and then the Z-stacked electrode assembly is bent (or folded) into a Z-stack. Furthermore, multiple electrode assemblies 15r can be stacked such that the long sides of the electrode assemblies 15r are adjacent to each other and housed within a housing 15a, and the number of electrode assemblies 15r in the housing 15a is not limited in this disclosure. A first electrode plate of the electrode assembly 15r can be used as a negative electrode, and a second electrode plate can be used as a positive electrode. Of course, the reverse is also possible.

[0053] The first electrode plate can be formed by coating a first electrode active material (such as graphite, carbon, etc.) onto a first electrode current collector formed of a metal foil (such as copper, copper alloy, nickel, nickel alloy, etc.). The first electrode plate may include a first electrode tab (e.g., a first uncoated portion) 15p, which is the area of ​​the first electrode plate that is not coated with the first electrode active material. The first electrode tab 15p can serve as a current flow path between the first electrode plate and the first current collector 15m. In some embodiments, when manufacturing the first electrode plate, the first electrode tab 15p is formed by pre-cutting to protrude toward one side of the electrode assembly 15r, or the first electrode tab 15p protrudes much more toward one side of the electrode assembly 15r than the diaphragm without separate cutting (e.g., protrudes further or protrudes beyond the diaphragm).

[0054] The second electrode plate can be formed by coating a second electrode active material (such as a transition metal oxide) onto a second electrode current collector formed of a metal foil (such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy). The second electrode plate may include a second electrode tab (e.g., a second uncoated portion) 15q, which is a region of the second electrode plate that is not coated with the second electrode active material. The second electrode tab 15q can serve as a current flow path between the second electrode plate and the second current collector 15h. In some embodiments, when manufacturing the second electrode plate, the second electrode tab 15q can be formed by pre-cutting to protrude toward the other side (e.g., the opposite side) of the electrode assembly, or the second electrode plate can protrude much more toward the other side of the electrode assembly than the diaphragm (e.g., protruding far or protruding beyond the diaphragm) without separate cutting.

[0055] The separator prevents or substantially reduces short circuits between the first and second electrodes while allowing lithium ions to move between them. The separator can be made of, for example, polyethylene membranes, polypropylene membranes, polyethylene-polypropylene membranes, etc.

[0056] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 15r is housed together with the electrolyte in a housing 15a.

[0057] The first current collector 15m and the second current collector 15n of the electrode assembly 15r can be welded and connected to the first electrode terminal 15p extending from the first electrode plate and the second electrode terminal 15q extending from the second electrode plate, respectively.

[0058] The first current collector 15m and the second current collector 15n are respectively connected to the first terminal 15d and the second terminal 15e via connecting members 15k. In some embodiments, the connecting members 15k may each have a threaded outer peripheral surface and can be fastened to the first terminal 15d and the second terminal 15e by threaded connection. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the connecting members 15k may also be riveted or welded to the first terminal 15d and the second terminal 15e.

[0059] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a secondary battery module 17 in which secondary batteries are arranged according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As the capacity of secondary batteries used to power electric vehicles and the like increases, secondary battery modules can be manufactured by arranging multiple secondary battery cells laterally and / or longitudinally and connecting them together. Multiple secondary batteries can be arranged in a space defined by a pair of facing end plates 17a, 17b and a pair of facing side plates 17e, 17f. The secondary batteries can be arranged in one configuration (e.g., a connected configuration) and in a certain number to obtain desired voltage and current specifications.

[0060] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a battery pack 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Reference Figure 4 The battery pack 20 may include a component to which individual batteries are electrically connected and a battery pack housing that houses the component. In the accompanying drawings, for illustrative purposes, components such as busbars, cooling units, and external terminals for electrically connecting the batteries are not shown.

[0061] The battery pack 20 may be installed on (or in) a vehicle. The vehicle may be, for example, an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle (e.g., a plug-in hybrid vehicle). The vehicle may be a four-wheeled vehicle or a two-wheeled vehicle, but is not limited thereto. Figure 5 Shown on its undercarriage including Figure 4 The vehicle is shown with battery pack 20. The vehicle can operate by receiving power from battery pack 20 (e.g., it can be powered by it).

[0062] The following materials can be used in the above-mentioned secondary batteries.

[0063] As the positive electrode active material, compounds capable of reversibly inserting / deintercalating lithium (e.g., lithiated intercalation compounds) can be used. For example, at least one of lithium and a composite oxide of a metal selected from cobalt, manganese, nickel, and combinations thereof can be used.

[0064] The composite oxide may be a lithium transition metal composite oxide, and examples may include lithium nickel oxides, lithium cobalt oxides, lithium manganese oxides, lithium iron phosphate compounds, cobalt-free nickel manganese oxides, or combinations thereof.

[0065] As an example, compounds represented by any of the following molecular formulas can be used: Li a A 1-b X b O 2-c D c (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.05); Li a Mn 2-b X b O 4-c D c(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.05); Li a Ni 1-b-c Co b X c O 2-α D α (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.5, 0<α<2); Li a Ni 1-b- c Mn b X c O 2-α D α (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.5, 0<α<2); Li a Ni b Co c L 1 d G e O2 (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.9, 0≤c≤0.5, 0≤d≤0.5, 0≤e≤0.1); Li a NiG b O2(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a CoG b O2(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a Mn 1-b G b O2(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a Mn2G b O4(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a Mn 1-g G g PO4(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤g≤0.5); Li (3-f) Fe2(PO4)3 (0≤f≤2); and Li a FePO4 (0.90≤a≤1.8).

[0066] In the above molecular formulas: A is Ni, Co, Mn, or a combination thereof; X is Al, Ni, Co, Mn, Cr, Fe, Mg, Sr, V, rare earth elements, or a combination thereof; D is O, F, S, P, or a combination thereof; G is Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Mg, La, Ce, Sr, V, or a combination thereof; and L 1 It is Mn, Al, or a combination thereof.

[0067] The positive electrode for a lithium secondary battery may include a current collector (e.g., a substrate) and a positive electrode active material layer formed on the current collector. The positive electrode active material layer may include a positive electrode active material and may further include a binder and / or a conductive material.

[0068] Based on 100 wt% of the positive electrode active material layer, the content of the positive electrode active material is in the range of about 90 wt% to about 99 wt%, and based on 100 wt% of the positive electrode active material layer, the contents of the binder and the conductive material are respectively in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 5 wt%.

[0069] The substrate may be aluminum (Al), but is not limited thereto.

[0070] The negative electrode active material may include a material capable of reversibly intercalating / deintercalating lithium ions, lithium metal, an alloy of lithium metal, a material capable of doping and dedoping lithium, or a transition metal oxide.

[0071] The material capable of reversibly intercalating / deintercalating lithium ions may be a carbon-based negative electrode active material, which may include, for example, crystalline carbon, amorphous carbon, or a combination thereof. Examples of crystalline carbon may include graphite, such as natural graphite or artificial graphite, and examples of amorphous carbon may include soft carbon, hard carbon, pitch carbide (e.g., mesophase pitch carbide), sintered coke, etc.

[0072] Si-based negative electrode active material or Sn-based negative electrode active material may be used as the material capable of doping and dedoping lithium. The Si-based negative electrode active material may be silicon, a silicon-carbon composite, SiO x (0 < x ≤ 2), a Si-based alloy, or a combination thereof.

[0073] The silicon-carbon composite may be a composite of silicon and amorphous carbon. According to one embodiment, the silicon-carbon composite may be in the form of silicon particles and amorphous carbon coated on the surface of the silicon particles.

[0074] The silicon-carbon composite may further include crystalline carbon. For example, the silicon-carbon composite may include a core containing crystalline carbon and silicon particles and an amorphous carbon coating on the surface of the core. [[ID=二十五]]

[0075] [[ID=二十六]]The negative electrode for a lithium secondary battery may include a substrate and a negative electrode active material layer provided on the substrate. The negative electrode active material layer may include a negative electrode active material and may further include a binder and / or a conductive material.

[0076] For example, the negative electrode active material layer may include about 90 wt% to about 99.5 wt% of the negative electrode active material, about 0.5 wt% to about 5 wt% of the binder, and 0 wt% to about 5 wt% of the conductive material.

[0077] Non-aqueous binders, aqueous binders, dry binders, or combinations thereof may be used as binders. When an aqueous binder is used as a negative electrode binder, it may further include a cellulose-based compound capable of imparting (e.g., increasing) viscosity.

[0078] As the negative electrode substrate, one can be selected from copper foil, nickel foil, stainless steel foil, titanium foil, nickel foam, copper foam, conductive metal coated polymer substrate, and combinations thereof.

[0079] Electrolytes used in lithium secondary batteries may include non-aqueous organic solvents and lithium salts.

[0080] Non-aqueous organic solvents serve as the medium through which ions participating in the electrochemical reactions of the battery can move.

[0081] Non-aqueous organic solvents can be carbonates, esters, ethers, ketones, alcohols, or aprotic solvents, and can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0082] In addition, when using carbonate solvents, a mixture of cyclic carbonates and chain carbonates can be used.

[0083] Depending on the type of lithium secondary battery, a separator may be present between the first electrode plate (e.g., the negative electrode) and the second electrode plate (e.g., the positive electrode). Polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, or multilayer films comprising two or more layers thereof can be used as the separator.

[0084] The diaphragm may include a porous substrate and a coating comprising an organic material, an inorganic material, or a combination thereof on one or both surfaces of the porous substrate.

[0085] Organic materials may include polyvinylidene fluoride polymers or (meth)acrylic acid polymers.

[0086] Inorganic materials may include, but are not limited to, inorganic particles selected from Al2O3, SiO2, TiO2, SnO2, CeO2, MgO, NiO, CaO, GaO, ZnO, ZrO2, Y2O3, SrTiO3, BaTiO3, Mg(OH)2, boehmite and combinations thereof.

[0087] Organic and inorganic materials can be mixed in a single coating or can be in the form of a coating that includes (or contains) organic materials and a coating that includes (or contains) inorganic materials stacked on top of each other.

[0088] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a secondary battery testing apparatus 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An exploded perspective view of the test apparatus shown in the figure.

[0089] The secondary battery testing device 30 according to this embodiment may include a supporting partition 31, a penetrating partition 35, a partition connector 33, an alignment mechanism 40, and a nail 60.

[0090] The supporting separator 31 and the penetrating separator 35 may have a substantially quadrilateral plate shape and may be arranged (e.g., maintained) in a parallel state, with the battery cell 15 disposed between them. The battery cell 15 may be a prismatic battery cell and may have an opening 15t in one of its surfaces (see example). Figure 11 The opening 15t is formed to conduct a penetration safety evaluation simulating an internal short circuit in the battery cell 15. The opening 15t can be located at the center of the side portion of the battery cell 15. The diameter of the opening 15t can be varied.

[0091] The support separator 31 has a predetermined thickness and is tightly fixed to (or in contact with) one side surface of the battery cell 15. The support separator 31 can be used to suppress the expansion of the battery cell 15.

[0092] The penetrating separator 35 is a plate-like member located on the opposite side of the supporting separator 31 and may have an access hole 35c. The penetrating separator 35 can be tightly secured to the battery cell 15. In one embodiment, the penetrating separator 35 may contact a surface of the battery cell 15 opposite to one of its surfaces. Figure 11 As shown, the inlet hole 35c may correspond to the opening 15t. In one embodiment, the inlet hole 35c may face the battery cell 15. In one embodiment, the inlet hole 35c may extend toward the support separator 31 through the penetrating separator 35.

[0093] A constant or substantially constant gap between the supporting separator 31 and the penetrating separator 35 can be maintained by separator connectors 33. Separator connectors 33 connect the supporting separator 31 and the penetrating separator 35 and maintain the gap between them. The length (e.g., the overall length or total length) of each of the four separator connectors 33 can be equal to the thickness of the battery cell 15.

[0094] refer to Figure 7 A positioning recess 35a and an internal threaded hole 35e are formed in the penetrating partition 35. The positioning recess 35a is a circular groove with an inner diameter and depth (e.g., a predetermined inner diameter and depth), and may have an access hole (e.g., an access opening) 35c in the internal region to accommodate the alignment mechanism 40.

[0095] The access hole 35c can be located at the center of the bottom portion 35d of the correctly positioned recess 35a. For example, as... Figure 11 As shown, the access hole 35c allows the end portion of the nail guide 45 to pass through the access hole 35c. In one embodiment, the nail guide 45 may correspond to the access hole 35c.

[0096] The internal threaded hole 35e can be located near the correct position recess 35a and connected to the connecting screw 51. The connecting screw 51 can be connected to the internal threaded hole 35e after passing through the screw hole 41a in the alignment mechanism 40 to maintain the connection between the alignment mechanism 40 and the penetrating partition 35. Figure 7 The test apparatus 30 shown has a detachable alignment mechanism 40. For example, the test apparatus 30 can be detachably attached. On the other hand, Figure 14 and Figure 15 The alignment mechanism 40 shown can be permanently fixed to the penetrating partition 35. In one embodiment, the alignment mechanism 40 can be detachably coupled to the positioning recess 35a. In another embodiment, the alignment mechanism 40 can be permanently fixed to the positioning recess 35a.

[0097] The alignment mechanism 40 is mounted on the penetrating partition 35 and may include a body 43, a nail guide 45, a support 44, a pressing end 47, and a flange 41.

[0098] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a through-pin alignment mechanism 40 for short-circuit testing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The front view of the alignment mechanism is shown in the figure, and Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 The cross-sectional view of line DD in the diagram.

[0099] The body 43 may have a cylindrical shape with a diameter (e.g., a predetermined diameter) and may be received within the positioning recess 35a. The outer peripheral surface of the body 43 may contact the inner peripheral surface of the positioning recess 35a. Additionally, the end portion of the body 43 may contact the bottom portion 35d of the positioning recess 35a. Therefore, the body 43 is restrained and prevented from moving when received within the positioning recess 35a. In one embodiment, a nail guide 45 may be located in the central portion of the body 43. In one embodiment, the body 43 may receive and support the nail guide 45.

[0100] The flange 41 may be integrally formed with (or integrally formed from) the upper portion of the body 43, may be annular, and may have a plurality of screw holes 41a. As described above, the screw holes 41a allow the connecting screws 51 to pass through the screw holes 41a.

[0101] The nail guide 45 may have a guide channel 45a as a hollow member, located at (or positioned along) the central axis portion of the body 43. The guide channel 45a may be a passage through which the nail body 63 of the nail 60 passes. In one embodiment, the guide channel 45a may extend linearly. Figure 11As shown, the nail body 63 can penetrate the electrodes of the electrode assembly 15r after passing through the guide channel 45a. The end portion of the nail guide 45 can pass through the inlet hole 35c and the opening 15t in the battery cell and extend into the housing of the battery cell 15.

[0102] The pressing end 47 is an annular member fixed to the end portion of the nail guide 45 and capable of pressing the electrode plate of the electrode assembly 15r. The pressing end 47 may be formed of an insulating material. For example, the pressing end 47 may be formed of Teflon or engineering plastic. In one embodiment, the pressing end 47 may include polytetrafluoroethylene. The pressing end 47 for the nail guide 45 may be fixed by an adhesive method. However, the pressing end 47 may be as follows: Figure 16 The image shows a threaded connection.

[0103] Additionally, the support member 44 is a component that connects the main body 43 to the nail guide 45. The support member 44 can be integrally formed with the main body 43 and the nail guide 45. The support member 44 allows a heat dissipation channel 43a to be formed between the main body 43 and the nail guide 45. The heat dissipation channel 43a can be a channel for dissipating heat generated during the performance evaluation of the battery cell 15 to the outside. The shape of the heat dissipation channel 43a can be implemented in various ways as long as heat can be dissipated.

[0104] The nail 60 can pass through the guide channel 45a into the battery cell 15 and cause an electrical short circuit in the battery cell 15.

[0105] The nail 60 may include a nail body 63 and a nail retainer 61. The nail body 63 may be a metal member extending in the longitudinal direction and having a pointed tip. Figure 11 As shown, the nail body 63 can penetrate the electrode assembly 15r to electrically connect the positive and negative electrodes, thereby causing a short circuit. The diameter and penetration depth of the nail body 63 are key factors in evaluating penetration safety. In the case of modern lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, the diameter of the nail body 63 can be approximately 1 mm, and the penetration depth can be in the range of approximately 2 mm to approximately 3 mm.

[0106] The nail retainer 61 is a component fixed to the rear end portion of the nail body 63 and can be used as a handle for the user to hold. In one embodiment, the nail retainer 61 can securely accommodate the end portion of the nail body 63.

[0107] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the use of a secondary battery testing apparatus 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] As shown in the figure, when the alignment mechanism 40 is mounted on the penetrating partition 35, the nail 60 fully enters the guide channel 45a in the direction of arrow f. Because the alignment mechanism 40 is connected to the penetrating partition 35, pressing the end 47 can press the electrode plate of the electrode assembly 15r.

[0109] In this way, by pressing the electrode assembly 15r with the pressing end 47, the expansion of the battery cell 15 can be suppressed or alleviated. In addition, the supporting separator 31 and the penetrating separator 35 can prevent the expansion of the housing 15a of the battery cell 15 by pressing the housing 15a.

[0110] While pressing the electrode assembly 15r at the end 47, the nail body 63 moves in the direction of arrow f to penetrate some of the electrode plates, thereby causing an internal short circuit. According to the test specification, the nail body 63 may penetrate or completely penetrate the electrode plates of the electrode assembly to a predetermined depth (e.g., about 2 mm).

[0111] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional exploded perspective view of a secondary battery testing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 13 This is an example Figure 12 The diagram shows how to use the testing apparatus.

[0112] In the following text, the same reference numerals as those above indicate the same components having the same function, and the repeated descriptions will be simply repeated or omitted.

[0113] As shown in the figure, the internal thread portion 35b can be formed in the inner circumferential surface of the recess 35a in the correct position. The internal thread portion 35b can be formed by machining (e.g., tapping) through the partition 35.

[0114] Additionally, an external thread 43c can be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the body 43 of the alignment mechanism 40. The external thread 43c corresponds to the internal thread portion 35b on the inner peripheral surface of the correct positioning recess 35a. As a result, the alignment mechanism 40 can be threadedly connected to the penetrating partition 35. Alternatively, the alignment mechanism 40 can be separated from the penetrating partition 35. The alignment mechanism 40 can be used and replaced as needed.

[0115] When the alignment mechanism 40 is fully engaged with the correct position recess 35a, the end portion of the main body 43 can contact the bottom portion 35d surface of the correct position recess 35a, and in this state, pressing the end 47 can press the electrode assembly 15r.

[0116] As described above, after the alignment mechanism 40 is installed, the nail body 63 can be inserted into the guide channel 45a of the nail guide 45, and then enter the battery cell 15 to perform an internal short circuit test on the battery cell 15.

[0117] Figure 14 This is a diagram of a secondary battery testing apparatus 30 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The cross-sectional view of the penetrating partition is shown in the figure.

[0118] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the alignment mechanism 40 is fully inserted into the correct positioning recess 35a of the penetrating separator 35. The alignment mechanism 40 (e.g., in the direction opposite to the direction facing the battery cell) does not protrude outside the penetrating separator 35. The correct positioning recess 35a may have a shape in which the alignment mechanism 40 can be fully accommodated. Because the alignment mechanism 40 does not protrude from the penetrating separator 35 in this way, the test device 30 can be made thinner.

[0119] In addition, such as Figure 15 As shown, the pressing end 47 can protrude downward relative to the bottom surface of the penetrating separator 35. Because the pressing end 47 protrudes downward in this way, the pressing end 47 can pass through the opening 15t in the battery cell and press the electrode assembly 15r.

[0120] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the through-pin alignment mechanism 40 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0121] As shown in the figure, the pressing end 47 can be threaded to the nail guide 45. For example, an internal thread can be machined at the lower end portion of the nail guide 45, and an external thread can be formed on the pressing end 47, so that the pressing end 47 can be threaded to the nail guide 45.

[0122] Because the press end 47 is threaded to the nail guide 45, the installation and removal of the press end 47 are relatively easy. For example, after having various sizes of press ends 47, the press end 47 can be relatively easily replaced with the appropriate size. In addition, when the press end 47 in use is damaged or worn, it can be replaced with a new press end 47.

[0123] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the through-pin alignment mechanism 40 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0124] As shown in the figure, based on the orientation of the accompanying drawing, the insertion guide 49 may be additionally mounted on the upper portion of the nail guide 45. The insertion guide 49 guides the nail body 63 into the guide channel 45a. For example, the insertion guide 49 allows the nail body 63 to be inserted into the guide channel 45a more easily and quickly.

[0125] For example, it may be difficult to insert a nail body 63 with a diameter of approximately 1 mm into the guide channel 45a. If the nail body 63 is not immediately inserted into the guide channel 45a, the nail body 63 will inevitably strike the upper surface of the nail guide 45, and the nail 60 may deform, for example, bend, when this striking is repeated. When the nail body 63 deforms, the angle at which the nail body 63 enters the electrode assembly 15r may change, resulting in test noise. The generated noise may interfere with accurate penetration safety assessments.

[0126] exist Figure 20 In the graph, <Normal Penetration> shows the curve when the nail penetrates to a depth of 2mm, and <Abnormal Penetration> shows the curve that occurs due to nail misalignment.

[0127] The insertion guide 49 is threadedly connected to the nail guide 45 and can be detachably attached. The insertion guide 49 can be detached when not needed. The insertion guide 49 may be made of synthetic resin or metal.

[0128] The insertion guide 49 has a funnel shape, for example, its inner diameter decreases (or narrows) toward the guide channel 45a. The nail body 63 is movable downward along the inner peripheral surface of the insertion guide 49 (i.e., the guide inclined surface 49a) and can enter the guide channel 45a.

[0129] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the nail 60 of the secondary battery testing apparatus 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 19 This is an example Figure 18 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of how to use a nail.

[0130] Figure 18 The nail 60 shown may have a structure including a nail body 63, a screw head 63a, and a nail retainer 61.

[0131] The screw head 63a may be an externally threaded member that is fixed to the rear end portion of the nail body 63. The screw head 63a may be a fixing screw type member having external threads formed on its outer peripheral surface.

[0132] Alternatively, the nail retainer 61 may be a cylindrical hollow member with an internally threaded portion 61a formed on its inner circumferential surface. The nail retainer 61 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the nail body 63 and may be threaded to the screw head 63a. The protrusion length L of the nail body 63 relative to the nail retainer 61 can be adjusted by axially rotating the nail body 63 housed inside the nail retainer 61.

[0133] Reference numeral 61c in the attached figure indicates the portion of the surface in close contact. For example... Figure 19As shown, the close contact surface portion 61c may be the portion that is in close contact with the surface of the alignment mechanism 40.

[0134] Additionally, a scale 63c may be marked on the nail body 63. The scale 63c indicates the length L by which the nail body 63 protrudes from the nail holder 61. The scale at the close contact surface portion 61c (e.g., immediately adjacent to the close contact surface portion 61c) indicates the protrusion length L.

[0135] In addition, such as Figure 19 As shown, since the thickness T from the upper surface to the lower end of the alignment mechanism 40 is known, the length Z of the nail body 63 protruding downward from the pressing end 47 of the nail body 63 can be calculated accurately.

[0136] As a result, because the extent to which the nail body 63 enters the electrode assembly 15r can be precisely adjusted using a scale, the thermal runaway pattern based on the depth of entry of the nail body 63 can be observed in more detail.

[0137] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a secondary battery testing apparatus can perform accurate safety evaluation by preventing or avoiding misalignment of the battery penetration evaluation apparatus.

[0138] Additionally, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the penetration pin alignment mechanism helps align the center of the opening formed in the battery casing with the pin, and stably maintains horizontal penetration by preventing the pin from sagging due to its weight.

[0139] The aspects and features of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the description of this disclosure other aspects and features not specifically mentioned herein.

[0140] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to embodiments thereof, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Various modifications and variations can be made to it within the spirit of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1.A secondary battery test apparatus comprising: a support spacer configured to contact one side surface of a battery cell for an internal short circuit test; a penetration spacer opposite to the support spacer and configured to contact another side surface of the battery cell opposite to the one side surface, the penetration spacer having an entry opening extending through the penetration spacer toward the support spacer; a spacer connector connecting the support spacer and the penetration spacer to each other and maintaining a gap between the support spacer and the penetration spacer; an alignment mechanism mounted on the penetration spacer and having a nail guide corresponding to the entry opening and having a guide passage; and a nail configured to penetrate the battery cell through the guide passage, thereby causing an electrical short circuit of the battery cell. 2.The secondary battery test apparatus of claim 1, wherein the penetration spacer has a correct position recess configured to accommodate the alignment mechanism, the entry opening being formed in an inner region of the correct position recess. 3.The secondary battery test apparatus of claim 2, wherein the correct position recess is a groove having an inner diameter, and wherein the entry opening is in the center of a bottom portion of the correct position recess and is configured to allow an end portion of the nail guide to pass through the entry opening. 4.The secondary battery test apparatus of claim 2 or 3, wherein the alignment mechanism further includes a main body, the main body being accommodated in the correct position recess and having the nail guide in a center portion thereof. 5.The secondary battery test apparatus of claim 4, wherein a heat dissipation passage is formed between the main body and the nail guide. 6.The secondary battery test apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the nail guide is configured to press an electrode plate of the battery cell in a state where the nail guide passes through the entry opening and a hole in the battery cell. 7.The secondary battery test apparatus of claim 6, wherein an end portion of the nail guide has a pressing tip configured to press the electrode plate. 8.The secondary battery test apparatus of claim 4, wherein the alignment mechanism is detachably coupled to the correct position recess. 9.The secondary battery test apparatus of claim 4, wherein the alignment mechanism is permanently fixed to the correct position recess. 10.The secondary battery test apparatus of claim 1, wherein the alignment mechanism further includes an insertion guide configured to guide insertion of the nail into the guide passage. 11.The secondary battery test apparatus of claim 10, wherein the insertion guide is detachably mounted on the nail guide and has a funnel shape to guide the nail into the guide passage. 12.The secondary battery test apparatus of claim 1, wherein the nail includes a nail body extending in a longitudinal direction and a nail holder fixedly accommodating an end portion of the nail body. ​ 13.The secondary battery testing apparatus of claim 12, wherein the nail further comprises a screw head fixed to the end portion of the nail body inside thereof, the screw head having an external thread formed on an outer peripheral surface thereof, and wherein the nail holder is a hollow member extending in the longitudinal direction of the nail body and has an internal thread portion threadedly coupled to the screw head. 14.The secondary battery testing apparatus of claim 13, wherein the nail body has a scale indicating a protruding length of the nail body from the nail holder. 15.A penetration pin alignment mechanism for a secondary battery short circuit test, configured to contact a battery cell for an internal short circuit test and installed on a penetration partition having an entry opening formed to face the battery cell, the penetration pin alignment mechanism comprising: a nail guide corresponding to the entry opening and having a linearly extended guide channel; and a body accommodating and supporting the nail guide. 16.The penetration pin alignment mechanism of claim 15, wherein the penetration partition has a correct position recess having an inner diameter, the entry opening being in the center of a bottom portion of the correct position recess, wherein the body is fixedly accommodated in the correct position recess, and wherein the nail guide extends into the battery cell through the entry opening and an opening in the battery cell. 17.The penetration pin alignment mechanism of claim 15, wherein a heat dissipation channel is formed between the body and the nail guide. 18.The penetration pin alignment mechanism of claim 15 or 16, wherein an end portion of the nail guide has a pressing tip for pressing an electrode plate of the battery cell. 19.The penetration pin alignment mechanism of claim 18, wherein the pressing tip comprises an insulating material. 20.The penetration pin alignment mechanism of claim 15, further comprising an insertion guide configured to guide a nail insertion into the guide channel.

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