Battery device

Abstract

There is provided a battery device including: a plurality of pack cases including a first pack case and a second pack case stacked in one direction, each of the first pack case and the second pack case accommodating a battery cell assembly including a plurality of battery cells; and an upper cover covering an upper portion of a battery pack case disposed at an uppermost end of the plurality of battery pack cases, in which each of the first and second battery pack cases includes: a lower frame on which the battery cell assembly is disposed; and a plurality of side frames connected with the lower frame to protect a side surface of the battery cell assembly, at least one of the plurality of side frames including: a main body portion disposed to face the side surface of the battery cell assembly; and a first upper flange and a first lower flange provided at both end portions in the height direction of the main body portion, and the first lower flange of the first pack case and the first upper flange of the second pack case are coupled to each other, the lower frame of the first pack case being located between the first pack case and the second pack case.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery device having multiple battery packs stacked together. Background Technology

[0002] Because rechargeable batteries are rechargeable, they are widely used in mobile devices such as digital cameras, mobile phones, and laptops. In particular, rechargeable batteries are attracting attention as an energy source for electric vehicles, energy storage systems (ESS), and the like.

[0003] Because electric vehicles and energy storage systems require large capacity and high power output, large-capacity battery devices that connect multiple battery modules or battery packs that house multiple secondary batteries (cells) in a casing are widely used.

[0004] In particular, in the case of large vehicles, such as commercial vehicles, battery devices that connect multiple battery packs are used as a high-capacity energy source for long-distance vehicle operation.

[0005] In the case of this conventional battery device being used in a large vehicle, multiple battery packs are each fixed to the vehicle and electrically connected to each other, thus the entire battery device has been configured.

[0006] In this case, complex fixing devices are required to secure the individual battery packs, and the resulting space between the battery packs leads to a decrease in the energy density per unit volume of the battery device. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] This disclosure is made to overcome at least some of the aforementioned difficulties in the related art. Regarding a battery device formed by multiple battery packs, one aspect provides a battery device with high energy density by reducing wasted space between the battery packs.

[0009] On the other hand, a battery device with a structure in which multiple battery packs are rapidly and stably stacked and combined is also provided.

[0010] Another aspect is having or maintaining the sealing performance between the two stacked battery packs.

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] To achieve the above objectives, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery device is provided, comprising: a plurality of battery pack housings, including a first battery pack housing and a second battery pack housing stacked in one direction, each of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing housing accommodating a battery cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells; and a top cover covering the upper portion of the uppermost battery pack housing among the plurality of battery pack housings, and each of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing housing comprising: a lower frame on which the battery cell assembly is disposed; and a plurality of side frames connected to the lower frame and configured to protect the side of the battery cell assembly, at least one of the plurality of side frames comprising: a main body portion configured to face the side of the battery cell assembly; and an upper flange and a lower flange disposed at two ends in the height direction of the main body portion, wherein the lower flange of the first battery pack housing and the upper flange of the second battery pack housing are coupled to each other, and the lower frame of the first battery pack housing is located between the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing.

[0013] The lower flange of the first battery pack housing and the upper flange of the second battery pack housing can be joined together by a first coupling assembly, and the first coupling assembly may include: a first nut, fixed to one of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing; and a first bolt, fastened to the first nut by passing through the other of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing.

[0014] The lower frame of the first battery pack housing may include a through hole through which the first bolt passes.

[0015] The first nut can be configured as a blind rivet nut and attached to the upper flange of the second battery pack housing, and the upper surface of the first nut can contact the lower frame of the first battery pack housing.

[0016] The upper flange of the second battery pack housing may include: a mounting portion on which the lower frame of the first battery pack housing is mounted; a support portion connected to and configured to support the mounting portion and the main body portion; and a hollow portion formed between the mounting portion and the support portion, wherein the support portion may have an inclined surface inclined relative to one direction.

[0017] The lower frame of the first battery pack housing may include: a first plate on which a battery cell assembly is mounted; a second plate on which a mounting portion of the second battery pack housing is mounted; and a third plate disposed between the first plate and the second plate to form a cooling flow path.

[0018] The second plate of the second battery pack housing can be configured to seal the internal space of the first battery pack housing by covering the upper part of the first battery pack housing.

[0019] The battery device may also include a guide assembly configured to guide the relative position of the first battery housing and the second battery housing, and the guide assembly may include: a plurality of guide pins fixed to one of the first battery housing and the second battery housing; and a plurality of guide holes disposed in the other of the first battery housing and the second battery housing.

[0020] At least one of the multiple guide holes may have a groove structure extending in a direction in which the multiple guide pins face each other.

[0021] The plurality of guide pins may include: a guide support portion fitted between the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing; a pin body protruding from the guide support portion and inserted into one of the plurality of guide holes; and a guide head connected to the guide support portion and housed in a hollow portion disposed in one of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing.

[0022] The battery assembly may also include a second nut, which is coupled to at least one of the plurality of side frames; and a second bolt, which is inserted into the second nut to secure the battery assembly to the external structure.

[0023] The insertion direction of the second bolt can be perpendicular to the stacking direction of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing.

[0024] The second nut can be attached to at least one of the upper and lower flanges of multiple side frames.

[0025] The battery device may also include a sealing member disposed along the upper surface of at least one of the plurality of side frames to seal the gap between the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing.

[0026] The upper flange may also include a blocking portion protruding in the height direction of the main body, and a sealing member is disposed inside the blocking portion, and at least a portion of the sealing member may overlap with the main body in the height direction.

[0027] Technical effect

[0028] According to an exemplary embodiment, a battery device consisting of multiple battery packs can achieve a high energy density by reducing wasted space between the battery packs.

[0029] According to an exemplary embodiment, a battery device with a structure in which multiple battery packs are rapidly and stably stacked and combined can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the battery assembly.

[0031] Figure 2 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the battery device.

[0032] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack.

[0033] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the lower frame of the battery pack.

[0034] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An exemplary sectional view of section I-I'.

[0035] Figure 6 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of the battery device.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a reference numeral used to describe the guide components of a battery device.

[0037] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 An exemplary sectional view of section II-II'.

[0038] Figure 9 The battery unit is shown in its installed state in the vehicle.

[0039] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 An exemplary sectional view of section I-I'. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Prior to the description of this disclosure, the terms or words used in this disclosure and the appended claims are not limited to their general or dictionary definitions. The terms and words should be interpreted in accordance with the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concepts of the terms in order to best describe his invention. Therefore, since the exemplary embodiments described in this disclosure and the configurations shown in the drawings are merely the most desirable exemplary embodiments and do not represent all the technical spirit of this disclosure, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace the exemplary embodiments and configurations may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0041] The same reference numerals or symbols shown in the accompanying drawings indicate parts or elements that perform substantially the same function. For ease of description and understanding, the same reference numerals or symbols may be used to describe different exemplary embodiments. In other words, although multiple drawings show elements with the same reference numerals, the multiple drawings do not imply that there is only one exemplary embodiment.

[0042] In the following description, unless there is an obvious and contextual conflict, singular terms include plural terms. For example, terms such as "comprising" or "including" are used to indicate the presence of features, quantities, operations, actions, elements, components, or combinations thereof. It should be understood that these terms do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features, numbers, operations, actions, elements, components, or combinations thereof may be present or added.

[0043] Additionally, it should be noted in advance that the descriptions of, for example, upper side, upper part, lower side, lower part, side surface, front surface or rear surface are based on the orientation shown in the accompanying drawings, and the descriptions may change when the orientation of the corresponding object changes.

[0044] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" or "second" as used in this specification and claims may be used to distinguish elements. Such ordinal numbers are used to distinguish elements that are the same or similar to each other in context. The meaning of the terms may not be limited by the use of the ordinal numbers. For example, the order of use, order of disposal, etc., of elements having such ordinal numbers may not be interpreted as limited by the ordinal number. Ordinal numbers may be interchanged as needed.

[0045] In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the concept of the present disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments presented. For example, those skilled in the art who understand the concept of the present disclosure may propose another exemplary embodiment within the scope of the concept of the present disclosure by adding, changing, or removing elements. However, other exemplary embodiments are also included within the scope of the concept of the present disclosure. For clarity, the shapes, sizes, etc., of the elements in the drawings may be enlarged.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of battery device 1.

[0047] Figure 2 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of battery device 1.

[0048] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to an exemplary embodiment, the battery device 1 may include a plurality of battery packs 10 stacked in one direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) and a top cover 20 attached to the uppermost battery pack 10.

[0049] Each battery pack 10 may include a battery cell assembly 200 containing multiple battery cells and a battery pack housing 100 that houses the battery cell assembly 200.

[0050] All battery packs 10 forming the battery device 1 can have the same structure. In other words, the user (or manufacturer) can determine the number of battery packs 10 according to the required power or the required size, and multiple battery packs 10 can be stacked and combined to realize the entire battery device 1.

[0051] However, depending on the needs, the battery device 1 can be formed as various types of stacked battery packs 10 with different structures. For example, in order to improve the structural stability of the battery device 1, some of the battery packs 10 can have a structure with higher rigidity compared to other battery packs.

[0052] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The multiple battery packs 10 may include a first battery pack 10a and a second battery pack 10b that are stacked and combined. As described above, the first battery pack 10a and the second battery pack 10b may have the same structure.

[0053] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 The battery device 1 shown has a structure with two stacked battery packs 10, but the number of battery packs 10 included in the battery device 1 is not limited to the number shown in the figures. For example, the battery device 1 may include three or more battery packs 10 stacked in one direction.

[0054] In the battery pack 10 forming the battery device 1, the battery pack housing 100 may have an open upper portion. The open upper portion of the battery pack housing 100 may be blocked by the battery pack housing 100 of another battery pack 10 stacked on top of it.

[0055] For example, refer to Figure 2 The second battery pack housing 100b of the second battery pack 10b can be configured as having an upwardly open interior space without any additional cover member covering the interior space. Therefore, the interior space of the upwardly open second battery pack housing 100b can be closed by the first battery pack housing 100a of the first battery pack 10a stacked on top of the second battery pack 10b. In other words, when the first battery pack housing 100a is stacked on top of the second battery pack housing 100b, the lower surface of the first battery pack housing 100a can be in close contact with the upper part of the second battery pack housing 100b to close the interior space of the second battery pack housing 100b.

[0056] In this way, when multiple battery packs 10 are stacked and combined, one battery pack 10 can enclose the internal space of the battery pack 10 disposed below it, so that for each battery pack 10, the additional cover member covering the internal space of the battery pack housing 100 can be omitted.

[0057] On the other hand, in the battery device 1, the internal space of the uppermost battery pack 10 can be sealed by the top cover 20.

[0058] According to this stacked structure, the energy density of the battery device 1 can be increased because the structure of the battery device 1 can be simplified and the multiple battery packs 10 can be more closely integrated with each other.

[0059] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 3 and Figure 4 A detailed description of the battery pack 10 forming the battery device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0060] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of battery pack 10.

[0061] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the lower frame of battery pack 10.

[0062] Due to reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The battery pack 10 described corresponds to the reference above. Figure 1 and Figure 2 One of the multiple battery packs 10 described, therefore, can be omitted. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The description is redundant and similar.

[0063] The battery pack 10 included in the battery device 1 according to the exemplary embodiment may include a battery cell assembly 200 in which a plurality of battery cells 211 are assembled and a battery pack housing 100 that houses the battery cell assembly 200.

[0064] The battery cell assembly 200 may include a plurality of battery cells 211 electrically connected to each other. For example, see reference to Figure 3 The battery cell assembly 200 may include a battery cell stack 210 having multiple battery cells 211 stacked on top of each other and a busbar assembly 220 electrically connecting the multiple battery cells 211 to each other.

[0065] In a battery cell stack 210, multiple battery cells 211 can be stacked in one direction. For example, refer to... Figure 3 Multiple battery cells 211 can be stacked in a direction perpendicular to the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of the battery pack housing 100 (e.g., the Y-axis direction) to form a battery cell stack 210.

[0066] The battery cell 211 forming the battery cell stack 210 can be a pouch-type secondary battery with an electrode assembly housed in a pouch. In a pouch-type secondary battery, the electrode assembly and electrolyte can be housed in a pouch formed by molding one or more external materials. However, the battery cell 211 of the battery cell assembly 200 according to the exemplary embodiment is not limited to a pouch-type secondary battery. For example, the battery cell 211 can be formed as a square battery cell or a cylindrical battery cell.

[0067] Although not shown in detail in the accompanying drawings, the battery cell stack 210 may also include battery cell protection members for protecting the plurality of battery cells 211. For example, the battery cell protection member may be a surface pressure pad for applying a predetermined surface pressure to the battery cell 211 to prevent the battery cell 211 from expanding during charging and discharging. Alternatively, the battery cell protection member may be a heat insulation sheet for preventing the spread of high-temperature heat or flame generated in one battery cell 211 to another element.

[0068] Multiple battery cells 211 of the battery cell stack 210 can be electrically connected to each other via a busbar assembly 220. The busbar assembly 220 may include multiple conductive busbars electrically connected to the battery cells 211 and a busbar frame supporting the conductive busbars.

[0069] The busbar assembly 220 may face at least one side of the cell stack 210. For example, see reference. Figure 3 A pair of busbar assemblies 220 can be provided, and each of the pair of busbar assemblies 220 can be configured to face the battery cell stack 210 in the length direction (i.e., the X-axis direction) of the battery cell 211.

[0070] On the other hand, the battery cell assembly 200 may also include an insulating cover disposed between the busbar assembly 220 and the battery pack housing 100. The insulating cover can be used to protect the busbar assembly 220 and prevent short circuits between the busbar and the battery pack housing 100.

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, the battery cell assembly 200 can be directly housed within the battery pack housing 100 without the need for an additional module housing surrounding the battery cell assembly 200. This cell-to-pack (CTP) structure eliminates the space occupied by conventional module housings and the assembly tolerances required for accommodating module housings. Furthermore, since a greater number of battery cells or larger battery cells, equivalent to the space removed, can be incorporated, the energy density of the battery pack 10 can be increased.

[0072] Multiple battery cell assemblies 200 can be housed in a battery pack housing 100. The battery pack housing 100 may include a lower frame 110 on which the battery cell assemblies 200 are mounted, and a first side frame 120 and a second side frame 130 coupled to the lower frame 110 to form the sides of the battery pack housing 100.

[0073] The lower frame 110 can be formed into multiple plates that are joined together. For example, refer to... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The lower frame 110 may include a first plate 111 on which a battery cell assembly 200 is mounted, a second plate 112 forming the lowermost surface of the battery pack housing 100, and a third plate 113 disposed between the first plate 111 and the second plate 112 to form a cooling flow path CP.

[0074] The cooling flow path CP can be a channel through which refrigerant can flow. Refrigerant can flow into the cooling flow path CP formed by the third plate 113 through the cooling port 1333 provided on the side of the battery pack housing 100. After cooling multiple battery cell assemblies 200, the refrigerant can be discharged to the outside of the battery pack housing 100 through the cooling port 1333 while flowing along the cooling flow path CP.

[0075] The plates forming the lower frame 110 can be configured with different sizes. For example, although the second plate 112 corresponding to the lowermost surface of the battery pack housing 100 is configured to have an area larger than that of the first plate 111, it can be configured such that its area is large enough that the side frames 120 and 130 can be joined to its upper surface. According to this structure, since the lower surface of the battery pack 10 is completed by a single component (i.e., the second plate 112) without any joints between different components, foreign matter or moisture can be effectively prevented from penetrating through the lower surface of the battery pack 10, and the battery cell assembly 200 can be stably supported.

[0076] Multiple side frames 120 and 130 can be positioned above the lower frame 110. For example, refer to... Figure 3 The multiple side frames 120 and 130 may include a first side frame 120 and a second side frame 130 that contact each other to form different sides of the battery pack housing 100.

[0077] The multiple side frames 120 and 130 can protect the sides of the battery cell assembly 200 and provide rigidity in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of the battery pack housing 100. In addition, the multiple side frames 120 and 130 can serve as bonding areas for bonding between the multiple battery packs 10 forming the battery device 1.

[0078] For this purpose, a side frame 120 or 130 may include a main body portion 121 or 131 forming the main body of the side frame 120 or 130, and includes an upper flange 122 or 132 and a lower flange 123 or 133 disposed at both ends of the main body portion 121 or 131 in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction).

[0079] For example, refer to Figure 3 The first side frame 120 may include a first main body 121, and includes a first upper flange 122 and a first lower flange 123 disposed at both ends of the first main body 121 in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction). For example, see reference... Figure 3 The second side frame 130 may include a second main body 131, and includes a second upper flange 132 and a second lower flange 133 disposed at both ends of the second main body 131 in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction).

[0080] Multiple battery packs 10 can be joined together by at least a portion of the upper flanges 122 and 132 and the lower flanges 123 and 133 disposed on the multiple side frames 120 and 130 of each battery pack 10. (Refer to below...) Figure 5 Describe this combination structure.

[0081] Reference Figure 3 The power port 1331, signal port 1332, and cooling port 1333 can be located in one of the side frames 120 and 130. However, the positions of the power port 1331, signal port 1332, and cooling port 1333 are not limited to those shown in the figures and can be changed as needed.

[0082] Meanwhile, the battery pack housing 100 may also include one or more transverse frames 140 disposed on the upper surface of the lower frame 110 to divide the internal space of the battery pack housing 100.

[0083] The transverse frame 140 can be connected to the lower frame 110. For example, the transverse frame 140 can be configured to span the upper surface of the lower frame 110 between the side frames 120 and 130.

[0084] The transverse frame 140 divides the internal space of the battery pack housing 100 into multiple receiving spaces. One or more battery cell assemblies 200 or a control module (not shown) that controls the battery cell assemblies 200 can be disposed in each receiving space divided by the transverse frame 140.

[0085] At least one of the lower frame 110, side frames 120 and 130, and transverse frame 140 forming the battery pack housing 100 may be formed of a high-rigidity metallic material to protect the battery cells 211 and ensure the structural stability of the battery device 1. For example, at least a portion of the lower frame 110 and the side frames 120 and 130 may be formed of aluminum or an aluminum-containing alloy.

[0086] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 5 Describe in detail the fastening structure between the battery pack housings 100.

[0087] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An exemplary sectional view of section I-I'.

[0088] Due to reference Figure 5 The described battery pack 10 and battery device 1 correspond to the reference. Figures 1 to 4 The battery pack 10 and battery device 1 are described, so unnecessary descriptions can be omitted.

[0089] According to the exemplary embodiment ( Figure 1 and Figure 2 The battery device 1 includes ( Figures 1 to 3 Multiple battery packs 10 can be connected through the battery pack housing 100. Figure 3 At least one of the side frames 120 and 130 is joined to each other.

[0090] Reference Figure 5 , ( Figure 1 and Figure 2 The battery pack housing of the first battery pack 10a (hereinafter referred to as the first battery pack housing 100a) and ( Figure 1 and Figure 2 The battery pack housing of the second battery pack 10b (hereinafter referred to as the second battery pack housing 100b) can be stacked in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction), and the first side frame 120a of the first battery pack housing 100a and the first side frame 120b of the second battery pack housing 100b can be joined by the first joining component CA1.

[0091] The first coupling assembly CA1 may include a first nut 150 fixed to one of the first battery pack housing 100 and the second battery pack housing 100b, and a first bolt 160 fastened to the first nut 150 by passing through the other of the first battery pack housing 100a and the second battery pack housing 100b.

[0092] For example, refer to Figure 5The first nut 150 can be fixed to the upper flange 122b of the second battery pack housing 100b, and the first bolt 160 can be fastened to the first nut 150 by passing through the lower flange 123a of the first battery pack housing 100a. Therefore, the lower flange 123a of the first battery pack housing 100a and the upper flange 122b of the second battery pack housing 100b can be firmly fixed to each other by the first coupling assembly CA1.

[0093] Each of the first battery pack housing 100a and the second battery pack housing 100b has a structure in which its lowermost surface is processed into a lower frame 110. In this case, when the first battery pack housing 100a and the second battery pack housing 100b are stacked, at least one of the plurality of plates 111, 112 and 113 forming the lower frame 110 of the first battery pack housing 100a can be disposed between the side frame 120a of the first battery pack housing 100a and the side frame 120b of the second battery pack housing 100b.

[0094] The first bolt 160 can be fastened to the first nut 150 by passing through at least one of the plates 111, 112, and 113 of the lower frame 110 forming the first battery pack housing 100a. For this purpose, a through hole 1121 through which the first bolt 160 can pass can be provided in the lower frame 110.

[0095] The lower frame 110 can be inserted between the side frames 120a and 120b of the vertically stacked battery pack housings 100a and 100b to fill the gap between the side frames 120a and 120b, thereby further improving the sealing quality of the internal space of the battery pack housing 100 and the airtightness of the battery device 1.

[0096] Furthermore, according to this combined structure, since the side frames 120a and 120b and the lower frame 110 can be alternately arranged in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of the battery device 1 and are firmly fixed to each other by the first combined component CA1, multiple battery cell assemblies 200 can be stably supported, and the structural stability of the entire battery device 1 can be greatly increased.

[0097] In order to stably support the other battery pack housing 100 disposed above, the battery pack housing 100 has ( Figure 3 The upper flanges 122 and 132 can be configured to fully withstand loads in the height direction.

[0098] Reference Figure 5The upper flange 122b of the second battery pack housing 100b may include a mounting portion 1221 on which another battery pack housing 100 or a top cover 20 may be mounted; and a support portion 1222 connected to each of the mounting portion 1221 and the main body portion 121 to support the mounting portion 1221. A hollow portion 1224 is formed between the mounting portion 1221 and the support portion 1222. Due to this hollow structure, the upper flange 122b can withstand loads while having a lightweight structure.

[0099] To improve the structural stability of the upper flange 122b, the support portion 1222 may have an inclined surface that is tilted towards the stacking direction of the plurality of battery packs 10. For example, referring to... Figure 5 The inclined surface of the support portion 1222 may be a portion that extends inclinedly from the end of the mounting portion 1221 to the main body portion 121. Therefore, the mounting portion 1221, the support portion 1222, and the main body portion 121 may form a hollow portion 1224 with a trapezoidal shape.

[0100] When the inclined structure is formed to the support portion 1222 of the upper flange, it can fully withstand the load applied in the stacking direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) compared to the case where the structure (e.g., the mounting portion 1221) protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the main body portion 121 (e.g., the X-axis direction) exists alone.

[0101] On the other hand, with Figure 5 The upper flange 122b of the second battery pack housing 100b is described for reference, but the above structure can be applied in the same way to the upper flange of another battery pack housing 100 including the first battery pack housing 100a.

[0102] On the other hand, in an exemplary embodiment, the first nut 150 can be configured as a blind rivet nut type. In this case, after a portion of the first nut 150 can be inserted into the hollow portion 1224 of the upper flange 122b, the inserted portion can be deformed by applying force. Thus, the first nut 150 can be securely fixed to the upper flange 122. When the first nut 150 is thus configured as a blind rivet nut type, fastening can be easily performed in the narrow area of ​​the mounting portion 1221 of the upper flange 122b.

[0103] The upper surface of the first nut 150 is configured to contact at least a portion of the lower frame 110 of the first battery pack housing 100a. Therefore, the upper surface of the mounting portion 1221 of the second battery pack housing 100b and the upper surface of the first nut 150 can have a continuous structure on the same plane, so that the load applied from the first battery pack housing 100a can be further evenly distributed.

[0104] on the other hand, Figure 5The diagram shows the vertical connection structure between the first side frames 120a and 120b of the battery pack housings 100a and 100b, but this connection structure can be applied similarly to the battery pack housings 100a and 100b. Figure 3 The vertical connection structure between the second side frame 130.

[0105] That is, as needed, in multiple battery packs 10, a bonding structure is formed between the second side frame 130 and the first side frame 120 via the first bonding assembly CA1. In this case, the bonding structure between the second side frames 130 in the vertical direction can be referred to... Figure 5 The description.

[0106] On the other hand, the battery pack 10 according to the exemplary embodiment may also include a guiding component for accurately and quickly stacking multiple battery packs 10.

[0107] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 6 and Figure 7 Describes a guide assembly for accurately stacking and combining the battery pack 10.

[0108] Figure 6 This is an exemplary exploded perspective view of battery device 1.

[0109] Figure 7 This is a reference numeral used to describe the guide assembly of battery device 1.

[0110] Due to reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The described battery pack 10 and battery device 1 include references Figures 1 to 5 The technical features of the battery pack 10 and battery device 1 described herein can therefore be omitted.

[0111] The battery device 1 may also include a guide assembly GA for guiding the relative positions of the plurality of battery packs 10 stacked in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction).

[0112] The guide assembly GA may include a plurality of guide pins 190 fixed to one of the first battery pack housing 100a and the second battery pack housing 100b, and a plurality of guide holes 1331 and 1332 disposed in the other of the first battery pack housing 100a and the second battery pack housing 100b.

[0113] Reference Figure 6The guide pin 190 can be disposed in at least one of the side frames 120b and 130b of the lower battery pack 10b in two or more stacked battery packs 10. For example, two guide pins 190 can be disposed in the upper flange 132 of the second side frame 130b of the second battery pack housing 100b, and the guide holes 1331 and 1332 into which the guide pins 190 are individually inserted can be disposed on the lower surface of the first battery pack housing 100a. However, the position of the guide pin 190 is not limited to the position shown in the figures, and the guide pin 190 can be disposed in the first side frame 120b of the second battery pack housing 100b as needed.

[0114] Reference Figure 7 The guide pin 190 may include a guide support 191 assembled between the first battery pack housing 100a and the second battery pack housing 100b, a pin body 192 protruding from the guide support 191 and inserted into one of a plurality of guide holes 1331 and 1332, and a guide head 193 connected to the guide support 191 and housed in a hollow portion 1321 provided in the side frame of the battery pack housing 100.

[0115] In an exemplary embodiment, the guide pin 190 can be configured as a blind stud type. In other words, after the guide head of the guide pin 190 is inserted into the hollow portion 1224, the guide head 193 can be deformed by applying force. Thus, the guide pin 190 can be securely fixed to the upper flange 132b. When the guide pin 190 is thus configured as a blind stud type, fastening can be easily performed in a narrow area on the upper surface of the upper flange 132b.

[0116] Guide holes 1331 and 1332 are provided on the lower surface of the upper battery pack 10 in one of two or more stacked battery packs 10, and are formed such that guide pins 190 can be inserted therein. For example, see reference Figure 6 The guide hole 1331 or 1332 may be provided on the lower surface of the first battery pack housing 100a to correspond to the position of the guide pin 190 that is coupled to the second battery pack housing 100b.

[0117] Guide holes 1331 and 1332 may include a first guide hole 1331 and a second guide hole 1332 with different shapes. For example, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first guide hole 1331 can be configured to mate with the guide pin 190, and the second guide hole 1332 can be configured as a slot structure, allowing each guide pin to move relative to the other guide pin when the guide pins 190 are inserted. In this respect, the second guide hole 1332 can be configured in a direction where the multiple guide pins 190 face each other (e.g., Figure 6 A groove structure extending along the Y-axis (in the middle).

[0118] The alignment method for the battery pack 10 using the guide assembly GA is as follows. First, one of the plurality of guide pins 190 is inserted into the second guide hole 1332 having a slot structure. With the guide pin 190 inserted into the second guide hole 1332, the two vertically arranged battery pack housings (e.g., Figure 6 The first battery pack housing 100a and the second battery pack housing 100b can be slightly moved relative to each other to correspond to the groove shape of the second guide hole 1332. Then, the positions of the first battery pack housing 100a and the second battery pack housing 100b can be appropriately adjusted so that another guide pin 190 can be inserted into the first guide hole 1331. Thus, the relative positions of two adjacent battery packs 10 are determined. According to this guiding structure, multiple battery packs 10 can be aligned quickly and accurately.

[0119] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 8 and Figure 9 Describes a second coupling assembly for securing the battery device 1 to an external structure.

[0120] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 An exemplary sectional view of section II-II'.

[0121] Figure 9 The battery device 1 is shown installed in the vehicle.

[0122] Due to reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The described battery pack 10 includes references Figures 1 to 7 All technical features of the battery pack 10 and battery device 1 described herein can therefore be omitted.

[0123] The battery device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment can be integrated into an external structure. For example, referring to... Figure 9 The battery device 1 can be combined with the battery placement part SP provided in the vehicle VH, and can be fixed to the vehicle VH.

[0124] The battery device 1 may also include a second coupling assembly CA2 for effectively securing the plurality of battery packs 10 to an external structure. For example, see reference to Figure 8 The second coupling component CA2 may include a second nut 170 coupled to the battery pack housing 100 and a second bolt 180 fastened to the second nut 170.

[0125] The second nut 170 can be secured to multiple side frames of the battery pack housing 100 (e.g., Figure 3 At least one of the multiple side frames 120 and 130. For example, a second nut 170 may be provided on at least one of the upper flange 122 and the lower flange 123 of the first side frame 120.

[0126] The second bolt 180 can be inserted into each of the external structure and the second nut 170, thus securing the battery device 1 to the external structure. For example, the second bolt 180 can be tightened into each of the battery placement portion SP of the vehicle VH and the second nut 170 of the battery device 1 to attach the battery device 1 to the vehicle VH.

[0127] In this respect, the direction in which the second bolt 180 is inserted into the second nut 170 can be perpendicular to the stacking direction of the plurality of battery packs 10. For example, refer to Figure 8 The first battery pack housing 100a and the second battery pack housing 100b can be stacked in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of the battery device 1. A nut hole that is open in a first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) perpendicular to the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of the battery device 1 can be provided in the second nut 170, and the second bolt 180 can be inserted into the nut hole in the first direction, so that the external structure and the battery pack 10 can be combined with each other.

[0128] The second nut 170 can be set as a blind nut type. For example, refer to Figure 8 After a portion of the second nut 170 is inserted into the lower flange 123a, the portion inserted into the lower flange 123a can be deformed by applying force, so that the second nut 170 can be securely fixed to the lower flange 123a. When the second nut 170 is thus formed as a blind nut type, the second nut 170 can be easily tightened to the lower flange 123a.

[0129] Meanwhile, the second coupling component CA2 can be positioned between multiple first coupling components CA1 to avoid interference.

[0130] In the following text, we will refer to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 10 Describe the sealing structure of the battery device.

[0131] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 An exemplary sectional view of section I-I'.

[0132] Reference Figure 10 The described battery device includes references Figures 1 to 9 The technical features of the battery device 1 are described, and redundant descriptions may be omitted.

[0133] The battery device according to an exemplary embodiment may further include a sealing member 101 for improving the battery pack (e.g., Figure 10 a and Figure 10The sealing performance between battery packs 10a and 10b is improved. The sealing member 101 can prevent moisture or foreign matter from entering the internal space of the battery pack housing by filling any gaps that may occur between the vertically stacked battery packs 10a and 10b.

[0134] Sealing member 101 may be provided in the battery pack housing (e.g., Figure 2 On the upper surface of the side frame of the battery pack housing 100. For example, see together. Figure 2 and Figure 10 The sealing member 101 may be disposed along the upper surface of at least one of the first side frame 120 and the second side frame 130 forming the side of the battery pack housing 100.

[0135] When another battery pack casing (e.g., Figure 10 The battery pack housing 100a) is placed and placed into a battery pack housing (e.g., Figure 10 When the sealing member 101 is attached to and combined with the battery pack housing 100b, the upper surface of the sealing member 101 can be in close contact with the lower surface of the other battery pack housing 100a. Therefore, the internal space of the battery pack housing 100b located below can be tightly sealed.

[0136] Similarly, the sealing member 101 located at the top of the battery pack housing of the battery device can seal the top battery pack housing from ( Figure 1 and Figure 2 The gap between the top cover 20.

[0137] The sealing member 101 may be formed of a material having a predetermined elasticity or resilience. For example, at least a portion of the sealing member 101 may be formed of a polymeric resin material, such as rubber or polyurethane. Alternatively, the sealing member 101 may be configured as a liquid-type gasket containing silicone or the like. The sealing member 101 formed of such a material can be deformed to correspond to the shape of the gap between adjacent stacked battery packs (e.g., battery packs 10a and 10b) or between battery pack 10 and the top cover 20, thereby increasing the water tightness and air tightness of the battery device.

[0138] The sealing member 101 may be disposed in a sealing groove 122a formed on the upper surface of the side frames 120 and 130. (See also...) Figure 3 and Figure 10The sealing groove 122a may be a recessed space configured to allow the sealing member 101 to be disposed thereon, and may be configured to be closer to the interior space of the battery pack housing (e.g., battery pack housing 100b) than the portion in the side frame (e.g., side frame 120b) that engages with the coupling components 150 and 160. Taking into account the material properties of the sealing member 101, its upper surface may be configured to protrude a predetermined thickness beyond the upper boundary of the sealing groove 122a or the upper surfaces of the side frames 120 and 130 before the sealing member 101 is pressed by the upper component.

[0139] At least a portion of the sealing groove 122a and the sealing member 101 can overlap with the main bodies 121 and 131 of the side frames 120 and 130 in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of the battery pack housing. Therefore, although the flanges 122, 123, 132 and 133 of the vertically stacked side frames 120 and 130 deform relative to each other during the assembly or use of the battery device, the sealing member 101 fitted between the main bodies 121 and 131 can stably fill the gaps between the battery pack housings 100 in the vertical direction, thereby maintaining the sealing quality of the battery device.

[0140] Additionally, the sealing member 101 can be configured at predetermined intervals and on the side frame (e.g., Figure 10 The portions of the side frames 120a and 120b that engage with the coupling components 150 and 160 are spaced apart. Therefore, during the fastening of the coupling components 150 and 160, interference with or damage to the sealing member 101 can be prevented.

[0141] In an exemplary embodiment, the side frame may further include a protruding mounting portion 122b disposed on one side of the sealing groove 122a. The protruding mounting portion 122b may be located on the side frame (e.g., Figure 10 The portion of the side frame 120a or 120b that protrudes further from the bottom surface of the sealing groove 122a in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) and can be attached to the top cover 20 or placed on ( Figure 10 The lower surface of another battery pack housing is in contact with the side frames 120a and 120b above.

[0142] The protruding mounting portion 122b can be positioned adjacent to the sealing member 101, and can be configured to support the upper cover 20 or be mounted on ( Figure 10 The load applied to the other battery pack housing above the side frames 120a and 120b is prevented from being applied to the sealing member 101, and the sealing member 101 can be compressed at an appropriate level.

[0143] On the other hand, when components 150 and 160 are combined and set on the side frame (e.g., Figure 10A barrier 122c for preventing the inflow of external foreign matter can be provided at the edge of the side frames 120a and 120b. For example, refer to Figure 10 The blocking portion 122c may be a portion that protrudes at the edge of the upper flange 122b in the height direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of the battery pack 10.

[0144] The upper surface of the blocking part 122c can be attached to the upper cover 20 or mounted on the side frame (e.g., Figure 10 The lower surface of the other battery pack housing above the side frames 120a and 120b is in close contact. The blocking portion 122c can be used to prevent the sealing member 101 located on one side inside the blocking portion 122c from being directly exposed to the external environment of the battery pack 10, and mainly to prevent moisture and foreign matter from the outside of the battery pack 10 from entering the battery pack housing 100. Therefore, the sealing member 101 can be prevented from being contaminated or damaged, and the excellent sealing performance of the sealing member 101 can be maintained for a long time.

[0145] In an exemplary embodiment, the upper surface of the first nut 150 forming the connecting components 150 and 160 can be configured to have a height level equal to the height level of the upper surface of the blocking portion 122c. For example, as Figure 10 As shown, the upper surface of the first nut 150 and the upper surface of the blocking portion 122c can be disposed on the same plane. Therefore, although the upper battery pack housing 100a is stably supported by increasing the contact area with the upper battery pack housing 100a, the vertical space between the battery pack housings 100a and 100b can be minimized.

[0146] On the other hand, side frames (e.g., Figure 10 The upper surface of the protruding mounting portion 122b of the side frame 120a or 120b can also be configured to have a height level equal to the height level of the upper surface of the first nut 150 and the upper surface of the blocking portion 122c. Thus, the side frame of a battery pack housing (e.g., Figure 10 The portions of the side frames 120a or 120b that contact the upper battery pack housing can be formed to have equal height levels. Therefore, the load applied by the upper battery pack housing may not be concentrated on a predetermined area of ​​the lower battery pack housing, and damage to the upper surface of the battery pack housing from concentrated loads can be prevented to the greatest extent possible.

[0147] Additionally, due to the side frame (e.g., Figure 10 The side frames 120a or 120b), the first nut 150, and the protruding mounting portion 122b are formed to have equal height levels, thus the upper battery pack housing (e.g., Figure 10 The battery pack housing 100a) can be connected to the lower battery pack housing (e.g., Figure 10The battery pack housing 100b) is in maximum tight contact and can be directed toward the sealing member 101 along the side frame (e.g., Figure 10 A uniform load is applied to the various portions extending from the upper surface of the side frame 120a or 120b. This allows for the expectation of higher sealing performance.

[0148] According to the exemplary embodiment, the battery device 1 can omit the additional cover members covering each battery pack 10, and can be configured such that one battery pack 10 covers and seals the upper part of the battery pack 10 disposed below it. Therefore, in the battery device 1 formed by multiple battery packs 10, the energy density can be increased because the wasted space between the battery packs 10 can be reduced.

[0149] Furthermore, regarding the connection between the vertically stacked battery packs 10, the side frames 120 or 130 of the upper battery pack 10 and the side frames 120 or 130 of the lower battery pack 10 can be connected by a connecting assembly CA1, wherein the lower frame 110 of the upper battery pack 10 is inserted between the upper battery pack 10 and the lower battery pack 10. This improves the sealing quality of the battery device 1 and enhances its structural stability.

[0150] Furthermore, the battery device 1 according to the exemplary embodiment can be manufactured by stacking multiple standardized battery packs 10, thus enabling the rapid manufacture of battery devices 1 with various capacities and sizes.

[0151] In particular, because the battery device 1 according to the exemplary embodiment has high-quality sealing and structural stability while having a structure integrating multiple battery packs 10, the battery device 1 can be applied to commercial vehicles (e.g., vehicles requiring high-capacity energy storage devices) Figure 9 Large electric vehicles (VH).

[0152] Various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above, but the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications are permissible within the spirit of this disclosure. Furthermore, the above exemplary embodiments can be implemented without any of their elements, and the various exemplary embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0153] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0154] 1...Battery device 10...Battery pack

[0155] 10a...First battery pack 10b...Second battery pack

[0156] 20... Top cover 100... Battery pack casing

[0157] 100a...First battery pack housing; 100b...Second battery pack housing

[0158] 110...lower frame 111...first board

[0159] 112... Second board 113... Third board

[0160] 120... First side frame 130... Second side frame

[0161] 140... Horizontal frame 200... Battery cell assembly

[0162] 210...cell stack 211...cell

[0163] 220...Busbar assembly CA1...First assembly assembly

[0164] CA2...Second Combined Component GA...Boot Component

[0165] VH...Vehicle SP...Battery placement section

Claims

1. A battery device, comprising: A plurality of battery pack housings, including a first battery pack housing and a second battery pack housing stacked in one direction, each of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing housing a battery cell assembly comprising a plurality of battery cells; and The top cover covers the upper part of the uppermost battery pack housing among the plurality of battery pack housings. Each of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing includes: The lower frame, on which the battery cell assembly is mounted; and Multiple side frames, connected to the lower frame and configured to protect the sides of the battery cell assembly. At least one of the plurality of side frames includes: The main body is configured to face the side of the battery cell assembly; and The upper flange and the lower flange are provided at two ends in the height direction of the main body, and The lower flange of the first battery pack housing and the upper flange of the second battery pack housing are joined together, and the lower frame of the first battery pack housing is located between the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing.

2. The battery device according to claim 1, wherein, The lower flange of the first battery pack housing and the upper flange of the second battery pack housing are joined together by a first coupling assembly, and The first combining component includes: A first nut is fixed to one of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing; and The first bolt is fastened to the first nut by passing through the first battery pack housing and the other of the second battery pack housing.

3. The battery device according to claim 2, wherein, The lower frame of the first battery pack housing includes a through hole through which the first bolt passes.

4. The battery device according to claim 2, wherein, The first nut is a blind rivet nut type and is attached to the upper flange of the second battery pack housing. The upper surface of the first nut contacts the lower frame of the first battery pack housing.

5. The battery device according to claim 1, wherein, The upper flange of the second battery pack housing includes: The mounting section is on which the lower frame of the first battery pack housing is mounted; A support portion, connected to and configured to support each of the mounting portion and the main body portion; and A hollow portion is formed between the mounting portion and the supporting portion, and The support portion has an inclined surface that is tilted relative to the said one direction.

6. The battery device according to claim 5, wherein, The lower frame of the first battery pack housing includes: The first plate, on which the battery cell assembly is mounted; The second plate is mounted on the mounting portion of the second battery pack housing; and The third plate is disposed between the first plate and the second plate to form a cooling flow path.

7. The battery device according to claim 6, wherein, The second plate of the second battery pack housing is configured to seal the internal space of the first battery pack housing by covering the upper part of the first battery pack housing.

8. The battery device of claim 1, further comprising a guiding component configured to guide the relative position of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing. in, The boot component includes: Multiple guide pins are fixed to one of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing; and Multiple guide holes are provided in another of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing.

9. The battery device according to claim 8, wherein, At least one of the plurality of guide holes has a groove structure extending in the direction in which the plurality of guide pins face each other.

10. The battery device according to claim 8, wherein, The plurality of guide pins include: A guide support is assembled between the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing; The pin body protrudes from the guide support and is inserted into one of the plurality of guide holes; and The guide head is connected to the guide support and is housed in a hollow portion disposed in one of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing.

11. The battery device according to claim 1, further comprising: A second nut is attached to at least one of the plurality of side frames; as well as The second bolt is inserted into the second nut to secure the battery assembly to the external structure.

12. The battery device according to claim 11, wherein, The insertion direction of the second bolt is perpendicular to the stacking direction of the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing.

13. The battery device according to claim 11, wherein, The second nut is coupled to at least one of the upper flange and the lower flange of the plurality of side frames.

14. The battery device of claim 1, further comprising a sealing member disposed along the upper surface of at least one of the plurality of side frames to seal the gap between the first battery pack housing and the second battery pack housing.

15. The battery device according to claim 14, wherein, The upper flange also includes a blocking portion protruding in the height direction of the main body portion, and The sealing member is disposed inside the blocking portion, and at least a portion of the sealing member overlaps with the main body portion in the height direction.

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