Protection circuit module and battery pack including same

Abstract

The invention relates to a protection circuit module and a battery pack including the same. The protection circuit module includes: a protection circuit board configured to be electrically connected to an electrode tab protruding from one surface of a bare cell, and including a molding member covering one surface of the protection circuit board; a printed circuit board (PCB) on another surface of the protection circuit board opposite to the one surface of the protection circuit board; and a first spacer coupled with one end of the protective circuit board with respect to a longitudinal direction of the protective circuit board. The protection circuit board includes a first coupling portion coupled with the first spacer, and the first spacer includes a second coupling portion corresponding to the first coupling portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure relates to a protection circuit module and a battery pack including the protection circuit module. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which are not designed for (re)charging, secondary (or rechargeable) batteries are designed to be discharged and recharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in portable small electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders, while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for driving motors in hybrid and electric vehicles and for storing electricity (e.g., household and / or utility-scale power storage). A secondary battery typically includes an electrode assembly consisting of positive and negative electrodes, a housing that houses the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] The protection circuit module (PCM) in a secondary battery protects the battery from overcharging, over-discharging, or overcurrent. The PCM prevents the battery from catching fire or exploding by blocking current flow when the battery's internal temperature or voltage rises.

[0004] The information disclosed in this background section is intended to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute related (or prior art). Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of this disclosure may pertain to a protection circuit module and a battery pack including the protection circuit module.

[0006] These and other aspects and features of this disclosure will be described in, or will become apparent from, the following description of embodiments of this disclosure.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a protection circuit module includes: a protection circuit board configured to be electrically connected to electrode tabs protruding from one surface of a bare battery cell, and including a molded member covering one surface of the protection circuit board; a printed circuit board (PCB) on a surface of the protection circuit board opposite to the one surface of the protection circuit board; and a first isolator coupled to one end of the protection circuit board relative to a longitudinal direction of the protection circuit board. The protection circuit board includes a first connection portion coupled to the first isolator, and the first isolator includes a second connection portion corresponding to the first connection portion.

[0008] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion may include a protrusion having a convex shape, and the second connecting portion may include a receiving portion having a groove shape to receive the first connecting portion.

[0009] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion may include a protrusion having a convex shape, and the first connecting portion may include a receiving portion having a groove shape to receive the second connecting portion.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion may be joined together at the portions where the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion contact each other.

[0011] In one embodiment, the printed circuit board may include an extension that protrudes beyond one end of the protective circuit board relative to its longitudinal direction.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first spacer may be located on the extension portion.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first spacer may fill at least a portion of the space formed by the step portion between the printed circuit board and the protective circuit board.

[0014] In one embodiment, the thickness of the first insulating material may correspond to the thickness of the protective circuit board.

[0015] In one embodiment, the protection circuit module may further include a second isolator connected to the other end of the protection circuit board relative to its longitudinal direction. The protection circuit board may further include a third connection portion connected to the second isolator, and the second isolator may include a fourth connection portion corresponding to the third connection portion.

[0016] In one embodiment, the second separator may include a sloping portion to avoid interference with the overlapping area at the end of the side surface of the protrusion protruding from the bare cell in the pouch housing.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion may be injection molded into the molded member, and the second connecting portion may be injection molded into the first separator.

[0018] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a battery pack includes: a bare cell; a protection circuit module (PCM) electrically connected to the bare cell; and a retaining strap covering at least a portion of the protection circuit module and at least a portion of the bare cell. The protection circuit module includes: a protection circuit board electrically connected to electrode tabs protruding from one surface of the bare cell, and including a molded member covering one surface of the protection circuit board; a printed circuit board (PCB) on a surface of the protection circuit board opposite to the one surface of the protection circuit board; and a first spacer coupled to one end of the protection circuit board in a longitudinal direction relative to the protection circuit board. The protection circuit board includes a first connection portion coupled to the first spacer, and the first spacer includes a second connection portion corresponding to the first connection portion.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion may include a protrusion having a convex shape, and the second connecting portion may include a receiving portion having a groove shape to receive the first connecting portion.

[0020] In one embodiment, the second connecting portion may include a protrusion having a convex shape, and the first connecting portion may include a receiving portion having a groove shape to receive the second connecting portion.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion may be joined together at the portions where the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion contact each other.

[0022] In one embodiment, the printed circuit board may include an extension that protrudes beyond one end of the protective circuit board in the longitudinal direction, and the first spacer may be located on the extension.

[0023] In one embodiment, the first spacer may fill at least a portion of the space formed by the step portion between the printed circuit board and the protective circuit board.

[0024] In one embodiment, the thickness of the first insulating material may correspond to the thickness of the protective circuit board.

[0025] In one embodiment, the battery pack may further include a second separator connected to the other end of the protection circuit board relative to the longitudinal direction of the protection circuit board. The protection circuit board may further include a third connection portion connected to the second separator, and the second separator may include a fourth connection portion corresponding to the third connection portion.

[0026] In one embodiment, the battery pack may further include a pouch-like casing covering the surface of the bare battery cells. The pouch-like casing may include a protrusion projecting toward the protection circuit module, and the second separator may include a sloped portion to avoid interference with overlapping areas at the ends of the side surfaces of the protrusion.

[0027] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, in battery packs to which standardized protection circuit boards are applied, spacers can be placed in unused spaces caused by differences in the size and / or shape of the battery packs, thus standardizing the appearance of the battery packs.

[0028] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the separator and the protective circuit board can be connected to each other, so that even if the battery pack is dropped or an external impact is applied to the battery pack, the movement of the separator can be suppressed.

[0029] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the spacer can be connected to the protective circuit board without a step portion, thus preventing or substantially preventing wrinkling or twisting of the retaining straps attached to the spacer and the protective circuit board.

[0030] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, when a standardized protection circuit board is applied to bare cells designed to have the electrode tabs protrude to one side, the appearance of the battery pack can be standardized using a single separator (e.g., using only one separator), thereby improving the manufacturing efficiency and economic viability of the battery pack.

[0031] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the protection circuit module can be stably mounted on the protrusion of the pouch housing and can prevent or substantially prevent the protrusion of the pouch housing and / or the dog ear of the protrusion from interfering with the protection circuit module.

[0032] However, 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 detailed description below that other aspects and features not mentioned are also present. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The following accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description of the present disclosure, further describe aspects and features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings:

[0034] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a battery pack according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 3This is a plan view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a side view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a bottom view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a battery pack according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a plan view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 8 This is a side view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 9 This is a bottom view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating examples of how the separators and protective circuit boards are connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating examples of how the separators and protective circuit boards are connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating examples of how the separators and protective circuit boards are connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 13 and Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the protrusion of a bag-type outer casing according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0047] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating examples of separators according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] Description of some figure labels

[0049] 100: Battery pack

[0050] 110: Bare battery cell

[0051] 111: Bag-type outer shell

[0052] 120: Protection Circuit Module

[0053] 122: Protect the circuit board

[0054] 122a: Molded components

[0055] 124: Printed Circuit Board

[0056] 126: First isolation barrier

[0057] 128: Second isolation barrier

[0058] 140: Fixing strap

[0059] 150: Insulating tape

[0060] 160: Coverage zone Detailed Implementation

[0061] 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 construed as limited to their general or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted in a manner consistent with the technical spirit of the present disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor is capable of interpreting the concepts of the terms appropriately as his / her own lexicographer.

[0062] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are only some of the embodiments of this disclosure and do not represent all the technical ideas, aspects, and features of this disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace or modify the embodiments described herein may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0063] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, "connected to," or "linked to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or linked to the other element or layer, or one or more intermediary elements or layers may be present. 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 is present. For example, when a first element is described as being "linked" or "connected" to a second element, 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.

[0064] In the figures, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be exaggerated for clarity of illustration. 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 related 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 list of elements when following it, and not individual elements within that list. 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 refer to a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrase may refer to any one of A, B, and C and all suitable combinations or subsets of them, 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 and not as terms of degree, and are intended to describe the inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0065] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another element, component, region, layer, or segment. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or segment.

[0066] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” and “above” are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature illustrated in the figure and another element or feature. It will be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation other than the orientation depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure 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.

[0067] 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, the singular form “a” is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used in this specification specify the presence of 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.

[0068] Furthermore, any numerical range disclosed and / or described herein is intended to include all subranges with the same numerical precision contained within the described range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between the described minimum value of 1.0 and the described maximum value of 10.0 (and inclusive of both), 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 described herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit described herein is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to explicitly describe any subranges contained within the scope explicitly described herein.

[0069] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” can mean that they are “substantially identical.” Therefore, the phrase “substantially identical” can include cases where the deviation is considered low in the art (e.g., 5% or less). Additionally, when a parameter is said to be consistent in a given region, it can mean that it is consistent in terms of average value.

[0070] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0071] Arranging any element "above (or below)" or "above (or below)" another element can mean that the arbitrary element can be configured to contact the upper (or lower) surface of the element, and the other element can also be located between the element and the arbitrary element disposed on (or below) the element.

[0072] Additionally, it will be understood that when a component is referred to as a “link,” “connect,” or “attached” to another component, these components can be directly “linked,” “attached,” or “attached” to each other, or another component can be “between” these components.

[0073] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, the phrase "A and / or B" means A, B, or A and B. That is, "and / or" includes any one or all of the listed items. Unless otherwise stated, the phrase "C to D" means C and below D.

[0074] For ease of illustration, the areas shown in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated in size and thickness, as well as in relative size and thickness. Therefore, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same or substantially the same parts.

[0075] As secondary batteries become smaller and thinner, standardized protection circuit modules that can be applied to a variety of batteries are being developed. However, when protection circuit modules manufactured in a single shape and size are applied regardless of the shape or size of the secondary battery, ineffective space (e.g., undesirable ineffective space) may appear at the connection between the protection circuit module and the secondary battery.

[0076] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery pack 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0077] refer to Figure 1 The battery pack 100 may include a bare cell 110, a protection circuit module 120 electrically connected to the bare cell 110, a fixing band 140 for fixing the protection circuit module 120 to the bare cell 100, and a covering band 160 covering the surface of the bare cell 110.

[0078] The bare cell 110 may include an electrode assembly and a pouch-like housing 111 covering the surface of the electrode assembly. The electrode assembly may include a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separator between the positive and negative electrode plates. Electrode tabs 112 may protrude from one side of the electrode assembly. For example, a positive electrode tab 112a may protrude from one side of the positive electrode plate, and a negative electrode tab 112b may protrude from one side of the negative electrode plate. The pouch-like housing 111 may cover the surface of the electrode assembly, such that the electrode tabs 112 are exposed to the outside.

[0079] The protection circuit module 120 can prevent or substantially prevent overcharging, over-discharging, and / or overcurrent of the bare cell 110. The protection circuit module 120 may include a protection circuit board 122, a printed circuit board 124, and insulators 126 and 128.

[0080] Electronic components for monitoring and protecting the condition of the bare cell 110 can be implemented on the protection circuit board 122. For example, electronic components such as relays, capacitors, and positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistors can be implemented on the protection circuit board 122. One surface of the protection circuit board 122 can be covered by a molding member 122a to insulate the components implemented on the protection circuit board 122 and protect them from external shocks.

[0081] The protection circuit board 122 can be electrically connected to the bare battery cell 110. For example, the protection circuit board 122 can be electrically connected via electrode terminals to electrode terminals protruding from one side of the bare battery cell 110. In this case, the electrode terminal connected to the positive electrode terminal 112a can be used as a positive electrode terminal, and the electrode terminal connected to the negative electrode terminal 112b can be used as a negative electrode terminal.

[0082] Printed circuit board 124 can be connected to protective circuit board 122. For example, printed circuit board 124 can be disposed on a surface of protective circuit board 122 opposite to one surface of protective circuit board 122 covered by molding member 122a. Printed circuit board 124 can be electrically connected to protective circuit board 122 by any suitable method such as hard soldering or soft soldering.

[0083] In some embodiments, the printed circuit board 124 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). In some embodiments, the printed circuit board 124 may have a variety of suitable shapes, and therefore, its design freedom can be greater compared to circuit boards made of rigid materials.

[0084] In some embodiments, printed circuit board 124 may be a separate circuit board. For example, printed circuit board 124 may be manufactured separately from protection circuit board 122 and then connected to protection circuit board 122 during assembly of protection circuit module 120. Accordingly, a standardized design for protection circuit board 122 can be created. For example, standardized protection circuit board 122 can be applied to various suitable types of battery packs 100 by connecting printed circuit board 124 to standardized protection circuit board 122, while the design of printed circuit board 124 (e.g., design of printed circuit board 124 only) can be varied depending on the type of battery pack 100.

[0085] The printed circuit board 124 may include an extension. The extension may refer to a portion that protrudes beyond one end of the protective circuit board 122 in the longitudinal direction relative to the protective circuit board 122. A connector may be attached to one end of the extension for connection to an external device.

[0086] Each of the spacers 126 and 128 may be coupled (e.g., connected or attached) to at least one end of the protection circuit board 122 relative to its longitudinal direction. For example, the first spacer 126 may be coupled (e.g., connected or attached) to one end of the protection circuit board 122, and the second spacer 128 may be coupled (e.g., connected or attached) to the other end (e.g., the opposite end) of the protection circuit board 122.

[0087] In some embodiments, a first spacer 126 may be disposed on an extension of the printed circuit board 124. Accordingly, the first spacer 126 may fill at least a portion of the space formed by the stepped portion between the printed circuit board 124 and the protective circuit board 122. Reference will be made below. Figures 2 to 12 Some examples of how isolators 126 and 128 are coupled (e.g., connected or attached) to protection circuit board 122 are described in more detail.

[0088] A protection circuit module 120 connected to the bare cell 110 can be mounted on one side of the bare cell 110. A protrusion 113 can be formed on one side of the pouch housing 111 (e.g., in the direction in which the electrode tab 112 protrudes), and the protrusion 113 can provide space for mounting the protection circuit module 120. For example, an insulating tape 150 can be provided on the protrusion 113, and the protection circuit module 120 can be mounted on the insulating tape 150.

[0089] The fixing strap 140 secures the protection circuit module 120 to the bare cell 110. The fixing strap 140 can be configured to cover at least a portion of the protection circuit module 120 and at least a portion of the bare cell 110. The protection circuit module 120 can be secured by the fixing strap 140 while mounted on one side of the bare cell 110. The fixing strap 140 can cover the protection circuit module 120 along the width direction of the bare cell 110 (e.g., in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the protection circuit board 122).

[0090] In the battery pack 100 to which the standardized protection circuit board 122 is applied, the separators 126 and 128 can be provided in the ineffective spaces that may occur due to differences in the size and / or shape of the battery pack 100 (e.g., empty spaces on the side surfaces of the protection circuit board 22), so that the appearance of the battery pack 100 can be standardized.

[0091] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a battery pack 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a plan view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a side view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5This is a bottom view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 3 to 5 The diagram may be an example of various views illustrating some embodiments of the protection circuit module 220 according to the present disclosure.

[0092] refer to Figure 2 The battery pack 200 may include bare cells 210, a protection circuit module 220, and a retaining strap 240. The protection circuit module 220 may include a protection circuit board 222 electrically connected to the bare cells 210, a printed circuit board 224 disposed on one surface of the protection circuit board 222, and a first spacer 226 and a second spacer 228 connected (e.g., connected or attached) to both ends (e.g., opposite ends) of the protection circuit board 222. In some embodiments, the first spacer 226 may be disposed on an extension 224a of the printed circuit board 224, the extension 224a protruding beyond one end of the protection circuit board 222.

[0093] The bare cell 210 may include a pouch-like housing 211 covering the exterior of the bare cell 210. The pouch-like housing 211 may include a protrusion that protrudes in the direction in which the electrode terminals of the bare cell 210 protrude (e.g., the +Y direction) or toward the protection circuit module 220. The protection circuit module 220 is mounted on the protrusion of the pouch-like housing 211, and a retaining strap 240 secures the protection circuit module 220 and the bare cell 210 to each other.

[0094] In some embodiments, the fixing band 240 may be configured to cover the protection circuit module 220 and the bare cell 210 in the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) of the bare cell 210. For example, one end of the fixing band 240 may be located on the upper surface (e.g., the surface in the +Z direction) of the bare cell 210, and the other end (e.g., the opposite end) of the fixing band 240 may be located on the lower surface (e.g., the surface in the -Z direction) of the bare cell 210.

[0095] In some embodiments, the width of the retaining strip 240 may correspond to or substantially correspond to the width of the bare cell 210 (e.g., may be the same as or substantially the same as the width of the bare cell 210) or may be close to (e.g., similar to) the width of the bare cell 210, relative to the longitudinal direction of the protection circuit module (e.g., in the X-axis direction). In some embodiments, invalid spaces may be formed in the left direction (e.g., -X direction) and / or the right direction (e.g., +X direction) of the protection circuit board 222, and the spacers 226 and 228 may fill at least a portion of the invalid spaces. For example, a first spacer 226 disposed on an extension 224a of the printed circuit board 224 may fill at least a portion of the space (e.g., invalid space) formed by the step portion between the printed circuit board 224 and the protection circuit board 222. A second spacer 228 located on a protrusion of the pouch-type housing 211 may fill at least a portion of the space (e.g., invalid space) formed by the step portion between the protrusion and the protection circuit board 222.

[0096] refer to Figures 3 to 5 The protection circuit module 220 may include a protection circuit board 222, a printed circuit board 224, a first isolator 226, a second isolator 228, and an electrode terminal 229.

[0097] One surface of the protective circuit board 222 may be covered by a molding member 222a to protect electronic components mounted on the protective circuit board 222. In some embodiments, the molding member 222a may comprise a suitable material (such as epoxy resin, polyurethane, phenolic resin, ultraviolet (UV) curable resin, etc.) (e.g., it may be made of such a suitable material), but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0098] Printed circuit board 224 can be connected to protective circuit board 222. Printed circuit board 224 can be disposed on a surface opposite to one surface of protective circuit board 222 covered by molding member 222a (e.g., an opposite surface). Printed circuit board 224 may include an extension 224a that protrudes beyond one end of protective circuit board 222 in the longitudinal direction.

[0099] Relative to the longitudinal direction of the protective circuit board 222, the first isolator 226 may be coupled (e.g., connected or attached) to one end of the protective circuit board 222, and the second isolator 228 may be coupled (e.g., connected or attached) to the other end of the protective circuit board 222. In some embodiments, the protective circuit board 222 includes a coupling portion for coupling with the first isolator 226 and the second isolator 228, and each of the first and second isolators 228 may include a corresponding coupling portion for the corresponding coupling portion of the protective circuit board 222. For example, the protective circuit board 222 may include a first coupling portion CP1_1 for coupling with the first isolator 226, and the first isolator 226 may include a second coupling portion CP1_2 corresponding to the first coupling portion CP1_1. Similarly, the protective circuit board 222 may include a third coupling portion CP2_1 for coupling with the second isolator 228, and the second isolator 228 may include a fourth coupling portion CP2_2 corresponding to the third coupling portion CP2_1.

[0100] In some embodiments, the first spacer 226 may be disposed on an extension 224a of the printed circuit board 224. In some embodiments, the first spacer 226 may fill at least a portion of the space formed by the step portion h between the printed circuit board 224 and the protective circuit board 222. As an example, the thickness of the first spacer 226 may correspond to (e.g., be the same as or similar to) the thickness of the protective circuit board 222 (e.g., including the molded member 222a thereon), but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In other words, the first spacer 226 may be connected to the protective circuit board 222 without a step portion in the height direction (e.g., the +Z direction) relative to the protective circuit board 222.

[0101] In some embodiments, the second spacer 228 may be disposed in a direction opposite to the protrusion direction of the extension 224a, and may be disposed on the protrusion of the pouch housing. In some embodiments, the second spacer 228 may include an inclined portion 228a for avoiding interference with the protrusion of the pouch housing. Reference will be made below. Figure 15 An example of the inclined portion 228a of the second separator 228 is described in more detail.

[0102] In some embodiments, the second spacer 228 may fill at least a portion of the space formed by the stepped portion between the protrusion of the pouch-like housing and the protective circuit board 122. As an example, the thickness of the second spacer 228 may correspond to or substantially correspond to the combined thickness of the protective circuit board 222 and the printed circuit board 224, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In other words, the second spacer 228 may be connected to the protective circuit board 222 without a stepped portion in the height direction (e.g., the +Z direction) relative to the protective circuit board 222.

[0103] The separators 226 and 228 and the protective circuit board 222 can be connected to each other (e.g., connected or attached), so that even if the battery pack 200 is dropped or an external impact is applied to the battery pack 200, the movement of the separators 226 and 228 can be suppressed.

[0104] In addition, the spacers 226 and 228 can be connected to the protective circuit board 222 without any step portion in the height direction relative to the protective circuit board 222, thus preventing or substantially preventing the fixing strap 240 attached to the spacers 226 and 228 and the protective circuit board 222 from wrinkling or twisting.

[0105] exist Figures 2 to 5 In this illustration, the extension 224a of the printed circuit board 224 is shown to extend to one side (e.g., only to one side), but the shape of the printed circuit board 224 is not limited thereto. For example, the printed circuit board 224 may protrude from both ends (e.g., opposite ends) of the protective circuit board 222.

[0106] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a battery pack 600 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a plan view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 8 This is a side view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 9 This is a bottom view illustrating a portion of a protection circuit module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 7 to 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a protection circuit module 620 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following, reference is made to... Figures 6 to 9 You don't need to repeat the above reference. Figures 1 to 5 The descriptions of the components and configurations are the same or substantially the same, and the differences between them can be described in more detail below.

[0107] The battery pack 600 may include bare battery cells 610, a protection circuit module 620, and a retaining strap 640. The protection circuit module 620 may include a protection circuit board 622 electrically connected to the bare battery cells 610, a printed circuit board 624 disposed on one surface of the protection circuit board 622, and a spacer 626 coupled (e.g., connected or attached) to one end of the protection circuit board 622. In some embodiments, the spacer 626 may be disposed on an extension 624a of the printed circuit board 624, the extension 624a protruding beyond one end of the protection circuit board 622.

[0108] In some embodiments, the protection circuit module 620 may be configured to be offset relative to the width direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction) of the bare cell 610. For example, when the electrode tabs protruding from the bare cell 610 protrude to one side relative to the width direction of the bare cell 610, the electrode terminals of the protection circuit module 620 connected to the electrode tabs may also be configured to be offset to one side. In some embodiments, the protection circuit module 620 may also be configured to be offset to one side relative to the width direction of the bare cell 610. For example, one end of the protection circuit module 620 may be located at a position corresponding to one side surface (e.g., the surface in the +X direction) of the bare cell 610.

[0109] The retaining strip 640 may be configured to cover the protection circuit module 620 and the bare cell 610 in the width direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction) of the bare cell 610. In some embodiments, the width of the retaining strip 640 may correspond to or substantially correspond to the width of the bare cell 610 or may approximate (e.g., be similar to) the width of the bare cell 610 relative to the longitudinal direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction) of the protection circuit module. In some embodiments, an invalid space may be formed in the left direction (e.g., in the -X direction) of the protection circuit board 622, and the insulator 626 may fill at least a portion of this space (e.g., the invalid space). For example, the insulator 626 disposed on the extension 624a of the printed circuit board 624 may fill at least a portion of the space formed by the stepped portion between the printed circuit board 622 and the protection circuit board 622.

[0110] refer to Figures 7 to 9 The protection circuit module 620 may include a protection circuit board 622, a printed circuit board 624, a separator 626, and electrode terminals 629. The printed circuit board 624 may be disposed on a surface opposite to one surface of the protection circuit board 622 covered by the molding member 622a. The printed circuit board 624 may include an extension 624a that protrudes beyond one end of the protection circuit board 624 in the longitudinal direction relative to it.

[0111] The isolator 626 may be coupled (e.g., connected or attached) to one end of the protection circuit board 622 in the longitudinal direction relative to the protection circuit board 622. In this case, the protection circuit board 622 may include a coupling portion for coupling with the isolator 626, and the isolator 626 may include a corresponding coupling portion for the coupling portion of the protection circuit board 622. For example, the protection circuit board 622 may include a first coupling portion CP1_1 for coupling with the isolator 626, and the isolator 626 may include a second coupling portion CP1_2 corresponding to the first coupling portion CP1_1.

[0112] In some embodiments, the spacer 626 may be disposed on an extension 624a of the printed circuit board 624. In some embodiments, the spacer 626 may fill at least a portion of the space formed by the step portion h between the printed circuit board 624 and the protective circuit board 622. As an example, the thickness of the spacer 626 may correspond to the thickness of the protective circuit board 622, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In other words, the spacer 626 may be connected to the protective circuit board 622 without a step portion in the height direction (e.g., the +Z direction) relative to the protective circuit board 622.

[0113] In some embodiments, when the protection circuit module 620 is configured to be offset to one side relative to the width direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) of the bare cell 610, an inclined portion 628b for avoiding interference with the pouch housing may be formed at one end of the protection circuit module 620. For example, the edge of the end of the protection circuit module 620 may be partially removed or recessed to avoid interference with the pouch housing.

[0114] When a standardized protection circuit board 622 is applied to a bare cell 610 with an electrode terminal piece protruding to one side, the appearance of the battery pack 600 can be standardized using only one separator 626, thereby improving the manufacturing efficiency and economic feasibility of the battery pack 600.

[0115] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of how a barrier and a protective circuit board are connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of how a barrier and a protective circuit board are connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an example of how a barrier and a protective circuit board are connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 10 to 12 This is a diagram illustrating examples of how isolators 1026, 1126 and 1226 are connected to each other with protection circuit boards 1022, 1122 and 1222 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figures 10 to 12 It can be Figure 2 A magnified partial view of region A. In the following text, for ease of illustration, the longitudinal direction of each of the protective circuit boards 1022, 1122 and 1222 may be referred to as the left-right direction, and the thickness direction of each of the protective circuit boards 1022, 1122 and 1222 may be referred to as the up-down direction.

[0116] In some embodiments, the isolators 1026, 1126, and 1226 may be coupled (e.g., connected or attached) to the protection circuit boards 1022, 1122, and 1222, respectively. For example, each of the protection circuit boards 1022, 1122, and 1222 may include a first connection portion CP1_1 for coupling with a corresponding one of the isolators 1026, 1126, and 1226, and each of the isolators 1026, 1126, and 1226 may include a second connection portion CP1_2 corresponding to the corresponding first connection portion CP1_1.

[0117] In some embodiments, as the insulators 1026, 1126, and 1226 are connected to each other by the protection circuit boards 1022, 1122, and 1222, the position of each of the insulators 1026, 1126, and 1226 can be fixed on the corresponding protection circuit module. For example, as the first connection portion CP1_1 of each of the protection circuit boards 1022, 1122, and 1222 is connected to each of the second connection portion CP1_2 of each of the insulators 1026, 1126, and 1226, movement of each of the insulators 1026, 1126, and 1226 in the left-right direction and / or up-down direction can be restricted. The movement of each of the insulators 1026, 1126, and 1226 can be further restricted by a fixing strip (e.g., configured to cover the protection circuit module and the bare battery cell). Figure 2 (240) Fixed strap restriction.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first connection portion CP1_1 may be located on each of the molded members 1022a, 1122a, and 1222a of the protective circuit boards 1022, 1122, and 1222. For example, the first connection portion CP1_1 may be injection molded into each of the molded members 1022a, 1122a, and 1222a. The second connection portion CP1_2 may be injection molded into each of the spacers 1026, 1126, and 1226.

[0119] refer to Figure 10 The second connecting portion CP1_2 of the isolator 1026 may include a protrusion with a convex shape, and the first connecting portion CP1_1 of the protective circuit board 1022 may include a receiving portion formed in a groove shape to receive the second connecting portion CP1_2. As an example, the isolator 1026 and the protective circuit board 1022 can be connected to each other by fitting the second connecting portion CP1_2 of the isolator 1026 from above into the first connecting portion CP1_1 of the protective circuit board 1022.

[0120] refer to Figure 11The first connection portion CP1_1 of the protective circuit board 1222 may include a protrusion with a convex shape, and the second connection portion CP1_2 of the isolator 1126 may include a receiving portion formed in a groove shape to receive the first connection portion CP1_1. As an example, the second connection portion CP1_2 of the isolator 1126 can receive the first connection portion CP1_1 of the protective circuit board 1122 from above the protective circuit board 1122, so the isolator 1126 and the protective circuit board 1122 can be connected to each other.

[0121] refer to Figure 12 The protective circuit board 1222 and the spacer 1226 can be bonded to each other. As an example, after applying adhesive to the portions of the protective circuit board 1222's first connecting portion CP1_1 and the spacer 1226's second connecting portion CP1_2 that are in contact with each other (e.g., the portion of the first connecting portion CP1_1 that is in contact with the second connecting portion CP1_2 and / or the portion of the second connecting portion CP1_2 that is in contact with the first connecting portion CP1_1), the protective circuit board 1222 and the spacer 1226 can be bonded to each other by press-fitting.

[0122] The connection structure between the protection circuit boards 1022, 1122, and 1222 and the separators 1026, 1126, and 1226 is not limited to the above reference. Figures 10 to 12 The described structure can be modified in various ways as needed or desired, so that the position of each isolator 1026, 1126 and 1226 can be fixed on each protection circuit module.

[0123] Figure 13 and Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating a protrusion 1311a of a bag-type outer casing 1311 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A magnified partial view of region B.

[0124] refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 Electrode tab 1312 protrudes from one side of the electrode assembly (e.g., in the +Y direction), and the pouch housing 1311 can cover the surface of the electrode assembly, so that the electrode tab 1312 is exposed to the outside.

[0125] In some embodiments, the pouch housing 1311 may include a protrusion 1311a that protrudes in the protruding direction (e.g., in the +Y direction) of the electrode tab 1312. The protrusion 1311a may provide space for mounting a protection circuit module.

[0126] As an example, the pouch housing 1311 may include a first pouch housing that primarily covers the front side (e.g., in the +Z direction) of the electrode assembly and a second pouch housing that primarily covers the rear side (e.g., in the -Z direction) of the electrode assembly. The first and second pouch housings may engage with each other along the periphery of the electrode assembly. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second pouch housings may protrude in the protruding direction of the electrode tab 1312 to form a protrusion 1311a.

[0127] Angle DE may be formed at both ends (e.g., opposite ends) of the protrusion 1311a. Angle DE may refer to a folded shape or folded area in which the pouch housing 1311 is folded inward at both ends (e.g., opposite ends) of the protrusion 1311a. For example, angle DE may refer to an overlapping area formed at the end of the side surface of the pouch housing 1311a. In some embodiments, a protective circuit module mounted on the protrusion 1311a may interfere with angle DE.

[0128] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a spacer 1328 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Reference Figure 15 The spacer 1328 may include an inclined portion 1328a to avoid interference with the protrusions 1311a and / or the angle DE of the protrusions 1311a of the pouch housing 1311. For example, the edge of the end of the spacer 1328 may be partially removed or recessed so as not to interfere with the pouch housing 1311.

[0129] In other embodiments, the spacer 1328 may be spaced apart from (e.g., separated from) the side surface of the bare cell to avoid interference with the pouch housing 1311. For example, the spacer 1328 may extend to a position spaced apart from (e.g., separated from) the side surface of the bare cell by a length (e.g., a specific or predetermined length) d. In some embodiments, the length d by which the spacer 1328 is spaced apart from (e.g., separated from) the side surface of the bare cell may be less than 2.0 mm or less than 1.0 mm, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0130] According to some of the above embodiments, the protection circuit module can be more stably mounted on the protrusion 1311a of the bag housing 1311, and can prevent or substantially prevent interference of the protrusion 1311a and / or the angle DE of the protrusion 1311a with the protection circuit module.

[0131] 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 by those skilled in the art within the spirit of the present disclosure and the equivalents of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A protection circuit module comprising: a protection circuit board configured to be electrically connected to electrode tabs protruding from one surface of a bare cell, and including a molding member covering one surface of the protection circuit board; a printed circuit board on the other surface of the protection circuit board opposite to the one surface of the protection circuit board; and a first spacer coupled to one end of the protection circuit board with respect to a longitudinal direction of the protection circuit board, wherein the protection circuit board includes a first coupling portion coupled to the first spacer, and wherein the first spacer includes a second coupling portion corresponding to the first coupling portion. 2.The protection circuit module of claim 1, wherein the first coupling portion includes a protrusion having a protruding shape, and wherein the second coupling portion includes an accommodation portion having a groove shape to accommodate the first coupling portion. 3.The protection circuit module of claim 1, wherein the second coupling portion includes a protrusion having a protruding shape, and wherein the first coupling portion includes an accommodation portion having a groove shape to accommodate the second coupling portion. 4.The protection circuit module of claim 1, wherein the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are bonded to each other at a portion where the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion contact each other. 5.The protection circuit module of claim 1, wherein the printed circuit board includes an extension portion protruding beyond the one end of the protection circuit board with respect to the longitudinal direction of the protection circuit board. 6.The protection circuit module of claim 5, wherein the first spacer is located on the extension portion. 7.The protection circuit module of claim 6, wherein the first spacer fills at least a portion of a space formed by a stepped portion between the printed circuit board and the protection circuit board. 8.The protection circuit module of claim 7, wherein a thickness of the first spacer corresponds to a thickness of the protection circuit board. 9.The protection circuit module of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: a second spacer coupled to the other end of the protection circuit board with respect to the longitudinal direction of the protection circuit board, wherein the protection circuit board further includes a third coupling portion coupled to the second spacer, and wherein the second spacer includes a fourth coupling portion corresponding to the third coupling portion. 10.The protection circuit module of claim 9, wherein the second spacer includes an inclined portion to avoid interference with an overlapping area at an end portion of a side surface of a protrusion protruding from the bare cell in a pouch case. 11.The protection circuit module of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first coupling portion is injection molded into the molding member, and wherein the second coupling portion is injection molded into the first spacer. 12.A battery pack comprising: a bare cell; a protection circuit module electrically connected to the bare cell; and ​ ​ a fixing tape covering at least a portion of the protection circuit module and at least a portion of the bare cell, wherein the protection circuit module is the protection circuit module according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, further comprising: a pouch cover covering a surface of the bare cell, wherein the pouch cover includes a protruding portion protruding toward the protection circuit module, and wherein the second separator includes an inclined portion to avoid interference with an overlapping area at an end portion of a side surface of the protruding portion.

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