Battery module and battery pack comprising same

Abstract

Disclosed are a battery module and a battery pack including the same. The battery module comprises: a battery group in which a plurality of battery cells are arranged; a bus bar unit electrically connecting battery cells among the plurality of battery cells to each other; a pair of end plates respectively arranged at opposite sides of the battery group in a direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged; and a holder including one side connected with the terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells and the other side connected with the end plate, in which the holder covers at least one of the plurality of battery cells and has a bent first side covering a region of the plurality of battery cells in contact with the end plate.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0141825, filed on October 17, 2024, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] One aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure relates to a battery module and a battery pack including the battery module. Background Technology

[0004] Unlike primary batteries, which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries are batteries that can be recharged and discharged.

[0005] For example, low-capacity rechargeable batteries can be used in portable small electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders. High-capacity rechargeable batteries are widely used as power sources for motor drives in hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as for energy storage.

[0006] Individual battery cells may repeatedly expand and contract depending on the operation of the secondary battery. Various methods are being designed to improve the durability of secondary batteries.

[0007] The information disclosed in the background section of this disclosure is provided only to enhance understanding of the background. This information may include information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a battery module and a battery pack including the battery module are provided that can prevent the rupture of the battery cell structure due to the expansion and contraction of the battery cells.

[0009] However, the aspects of this disclosure and the technical problems to be solved are not limited to those described above. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand other aspects not described and the problems to be solved based on the following description of this disclosure.

[0010] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery module includes: a battery group in which a plurality of battery cells are arranged; a busbar unit for electrically connecting the battery cells among the plurality of battery cells to each other; a pair of end plates arranged on opposite sides of the battery group in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged; and a retainer including a side connected to a terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells and another side connected to the end plate, and the retainer covering at least one of the plurality of battery cells having a bent first side that covers the area of ​​the battery cell among the plurality of battery cells that contacts the end plate.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the retainer may include: a terminal body comprising a conductive material and having one side connected to a terminal of each of a plurality of battery cells; and a terminal housing having a hollow internal space and having one side connected to an end plate, the terminal housing being configured to receive the terminal body.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the terminal housing may include a recessed groove that allows an external connection terminal to be placed in the groove.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the end plate may further include: a locking groove having a depth (e.g., a preset depth) in the end plate; and wherein the terminal housing has a locking protrusion configured to engage with and be coupled to the locking groove, and protruding on a side of the terminal housing that can be inserted into the end plate.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the terminal body may include one side connected to a terminal of each of a plurality of battery cells and another side connected to an external connection terminal disposed on an end plate.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the terminal body can electrically connect the corresponding terminals of different battery cells to each other.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the retainer may include a pair of retainers, which are arranged facing each other on opposite sides along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the retainer can be connected to the terminals of each of a plurality of battery cells via a busbar unit.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, the battery module may further include a busbar retainer, and the busbar retainer may cover the upper part of the battery group and may have a terminal hole through which the terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells passes, wherein the busbar unit is coupled to the busbar retainer and contacts the plurality of battery cells.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the first side of the retainer bend may cover the corner area of ​​multiple battery cells that contacts the end plate.

[0020] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery pack includes: a plurality of battery modules; and a battery pack housing in which the plurality of battery modules are housed, wherein each battery module includes: a battery group in which a plurality of battery cells are arranged; a busbar unit for electrically connecting the battery cells to each other; a pair of end plates arranged on opposite sides of the battery group in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged; and a retainer including a side connected to a terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells and another side connected to the end plate, and the retainer covers at least one of the plurality of battery cells and has a bent first side that covers the area of ​​the battery cell in contact with the end plate.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the retainer may include: a terminal body comprising a conductive material and having one side connected to a terminal of each of a plurality of battery cells; and a terminal housing having a hollow internal space and having one side connected to an end plate, the terminal housing being configured to receive the terminal body.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the terminal housing may include a recessed groove such that an external connection terminal may be placed in the groove.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the end plate may further include: a locking groove having a depth (e.g., a preset depth) in the end plate; and a terminal housing having a locking protrusion configured to engage with the locking groove and protrude on the side of the terminal housing that can be inserted into the end plate.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the terminal body may include one side connected to a terminal of each of a plurality of battery cells and another side connected to an external connection terminal disposed on an end plate.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the terminal body can electrically connect the corresponding terminals of different battery cells to each other.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the retainer may include a pair of retainers, which are arranged facing each other on opposite sides along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the retainer can be connected to the terminals of each of a plurality of battery cells via a busbar unit.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the battery module may further include a busbar retainer, and the busbar retainer may cover the upper part of the battery group and may have a terminal hole through which the terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells passes, wherein the busbar unit is coupled to the busbar retainer and contacts the plurality of battery cells.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, the first side of the retainer bend may cover the corner area of ​​multiple battery cells that contacts the end plate. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The accompanying drawings illustrate some embodiments of this disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, are used to provide a further understanding of the technical features of this disclosure; however, this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings, wherein:

[0031] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a battery pack including a battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 2 It is a diagram. Figure 1 A perspective view of the battery module;

[0033] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the battery module;

[0034] Figure 4 The illustration is based on the implementation method. Figure 3 A perspective view of a single battery cell;

[0035] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of area "A";

[0036] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of area "B";

[0037] Figure 7 It is a diagram. Figure 2 A view of the first retainer section;

[0038] Figure 8 It is along Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the first retainer section taken by line I-I';

[0039] Figure 9 It is a diagram. Figure 2 A view of the second retainer section; and

[0040] Figure 10 It is along Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the second retainer section taken from line I-I'. Detailed Implementation

[0041] In this document, one or more embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the terminology used in this specification and the appended claims should not be construed as limited to its common or dictionary meaning, but rather should be interpreted based on the meaning and concept corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure, on the principle that inventors are allowed to appropriately define the terminology for the best interpretation. Therefore, the description provided herein is for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, such that it should be understood that other equivalent modifications and alterations can be made to the present disclosure without departing from its spirit and scope.

[0042] Furthermore, it should be understood that the terms “comprising” or “including” and / or “included” or “comprise” as used in this specification specify the presence of the described features, quantities, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.

[0043] Furthermore, the accompanying drawings may not be shown to scale in order to aid in understanding this disclosure, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Additionally, the same elements in different embodiments may be given the same reference numerals.

[0044] When describing two things being compared as "identical," they can be either identical or substantially identical. Therefore, substantially equivalent can include what is considered a low deviation in the field (e.g., less than 5%). Alternatively, the uniformity of a parameter within a given region can refer to uniformity from an average perspective.

[0045] Expressions containing ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are used to indicate different elements, but the above expressions do not constitute a limitation on these elements. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another, and unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the first element may be referred to as the second element.

[0046] As used in this article, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0047] Any configuration placed "on" or "below" a component, or "above" or "below" a component, can not only mean that such configuration is in contact with the upper or lower surface of the component, but also mean that one or more other configurations can be inserted between the component and any configuration placed "on" or "below" the component.

[0048] It should be further understood that when an element is referred to as "connected" or "linked" to another element, these elements can be directly connected or linked to each other, or there can be one or more intermediary elements between these elements, or each element can be "connected" or "linked" to each other by one or more other elements. It should be understood that when an element is referred to as "electrically connected" to another element, the element can be directly electrically connected to the other element, or there can be one or more intermediary elements.

[0049] When “A and / or B” is mentioned throughout the specification, it means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise specified. That is, “and / or” includes all or any combination of the listed items. The term “C to D” indicates at least C but no more than D, unless otherwise specified.

[0050] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing some embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to be a limitation thereof.

[0051] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating a battery pack 1 including a battery module 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] refer to Figure 1 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery pack 1 may include a battery module 10 and a battery pack housing 20.

[0053] The battery module 10 can transfer the electrical energy stored inside to the outside. As described later, in the battery module 10, multiple battery cells 110 can be connected to each other and electrically connected to the outside, thereby transferring the electrical energy stored inside to the outside.

[0054] The battery pack 1 may include multiple battery modules 10. In one embodiment, the multiple battery modules 10 included in the battery pack 1 can be electrically connected to each other through module busbars (not shown) or the like, thereby enabling a larger amount of electrical energy to be transmitted to the outside.

[0055] although Figure 1 A battery pack 1 comprising three battery modules 10 is shown, but this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the number of battery modules 10 and the method of connection between the battery modules 10 may be appropriately selected as needed.

[0056] The battery pack housing 20 can provide space for accommodating the battery modules 10 and can connect the battery modules 10 to each other or allow the battery modules 10 to transfer electrical energy to the outside.

[0057] The battery pack housing 20 can provide space for accommodating the battery module 10 and can house the battery module 10 inside the battery pack housing 20. For example, the battery pack housing 20 may include a receiving space having a shape corresponding to the external shape of the battery module 10.

[0058] Therefore, with the battery module 10 housed in the battery pack 1, the battery module 10 can be stably supported without shaking.

[0059] The battery pack housing 20 can electrically connect multiple battery modules 10 to each other. For example, the battery pack housing 20 can connect the battery modules 10 to each other in parallel or in series using module busbars (not shown). Accordingly, the battery modules 10 can transfer more electrical energy to the outside.

[0060] The battery pack housing 20 can electrically connect the battery module 10 to the outside. For example, the battery pack housing 20 can electrically connect the battery module 10 to external components using connection terminals (not shown) connected to the outside.

[0061] Figure 2 It is a diagram. Figure 1 A perspective view of the battery module 10; and Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Exploded perspective view of battery module 10.

[0062] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery module 10 may include a battery group 100, a busbar unit 300, a retainer portion (or retainer) 400, and an end plate 500. The battery module 10 may further include a busbar retainer 200 and / or a side plate 600.

[0063] refer to Figure 3 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery group 100 can be formed by arranging a plurality of battery cells 110.

[0064] In one embodiment, the battery group 100 can be formed by arranging a plurality of battery cells 110 in the thickness direction of the battery cells 110. For example, the battery group 100 can be arranged such that adjacent battery cells 110 are connected to each other in their thickness direction.

[0065] Accordingly, the number of battery cells 110 housed in a battery module 10 having a specific volume (e.g., a preset volume) can be increased, thereby increasing the energy density.

[0066] Furthermore, when a force is applied toward the battery group 100 at the opposite end of the battery group 100 in the direction in which the battery cells 110 are arranged, each of the plurality of battery cells 110 is compressed in the thickness direction of the battery cell 110, thereby preventing or substantially preventing the occurrence of expansion.

[0067] Although the accompanying drawings depict a battery group 100 with sixteen battery cells 110 arranged in a row, this is provided only as an example, and the number and arrangement of battery cells 110 can be appropriately selected as needed.

[0068] Figure 4 This illustrates an embodiment. Figure 3 A perspective view of the battery cell 110; Figure 5 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of area "A"; and Figure 6 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of area "B".

[0069] refer to Figure 4 The battery cell 110 may include a housing 111, a cover 112, an exhaust 113, and a terminal 114.

[0070] The housing 111 can form the overall appearance of the battery cell 110 and can include a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. In addition, the housing 111 can provide a space for accommodating electrode assemblies (not shown).

[0071] An opening may be formed on one side of the housing 111, through which an electrode assembly (not shown) and an electrolyte housed in the housing 111 may be inserted into the interior of the housing 111.

[0072] The cover plate 112 can cover the opening formed in the housing 111. Therefore, the interior and exterior of the housing 111 can be separated from each other spatially and fluidly.

[0073] An exhaust 113 may be arranged in a hole and provide an exhaust passage for gas generated inside the battery cell 110, the hole being formed on one side of the cover plate 112.

[0074] The exhaust section 113 can rupture if the pressure inside the battery cell 110 exceeds a certain (e.g., preset) value, thereby creating a channel through which internal gas can be discharged to the outside.

[0075] The terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 can be arranged on the cover plate 112. The terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 can be exposed to the outside of the housing 111 by being connected to the cover plate 112 by welding or the like.

[0076] Terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 can be electrically connected to an electrode assembly housed inside the battery cell 110. In some embodiments, terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 can be electrically connected to the negative or positive electrode of the electrode assembly housed inside the battery cell 110.

[0077] The terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 can electrically connect the electrode assembly to external components. For example, the terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 can be connected to the busbar unit 300 and the retainer section 400, which will be described later, and can also be electrically connected to the terminals 114 of another battery cell 110 or another battery module 10.

[0078] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The busbar holder 200 can provide space for the arrangement of the busbar unit 300, so that the busbar unit 300, as described below, can be stably connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110.

[0079] Busbar retainer 200 may cover the upper part of battery group 100 (e.g., may be arranged on the upper surface of battery group 100) and may provide space for busbar unit 300 to be arranged to connect to terminal 114 of battery cell 110, thereby achieving a stable connection between busbar unit 300 and terminal 114 of battery cell 110.

[0080] refer to Figure 3 The busbar holder 200 may have a vent 201 through which the vent portion 113 communicates with the outside. In some embodiments, the vent 201 may be formed in the busbar holder 200 at a position corresponding to the arrangement position of the vent portion 113 of the battery cell 110.

[0081] Accordingly, when the busbar holder 200 is placed on the upper surface of the battery group 100, the gas discharged from the exhaust 113 due to the increase in internal pressure of the battery cell 110 can be discharged to the outside without being blocked by the busbar holder 200.

[0082] refer to Figure 3 Terminal holes 202 through which terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 can pass can be formed in the busbar holder 200. In some embodiments, terminal holes 202 through which terminals 114 can pass can be formed in the busbar holder 200 at a position corresponding to the location of terminals 114 of the battery cell 110.

[0083] Accordingly, when the busbar holder 200 is placed on the upper surface of the battery group 100, the terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 can be exposed to the outside without being covered by the busbar holder 200.

[0084] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 5 Busbar unit 300 can be connected to (e.g., mounted on) busbar retainer 200. Busbar retainer 200 provides mounting space for busbar unit 300.

[0085] In some embodiments, the busbar holder 200 may provide space for mounting the busbar unit 300 on the busbar holder 200 to cover the terminal hole 202. That is, the busbar unit 300 may be connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 exposed through the terminal hole 202 when mounted on the busbar holder 200.

[0086] Accordingly, the busbar retainer 200 can provide space for electrically connecting the busbar unit 300 to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110.

[0087] refer to Figure 5 The busbar engaging portion 203 can be formed to protrude in the area adjacent to the terminal hole 202 in the busbar retainer 200.

[0088] The busbar engaging portion 203 can press the busbar unit 300 mounted on the busbar holder 200 against the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110. In other words, the busbar engaging portion 203 can enhance the connection between the busbar unit 300 and the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110.

[0089] Accordingly, the busbar engagement portion 203 can ensure or facilitate the stable maintenance of the electrical connection between the busbar unit 300 and the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110.

[0090] The busbar support 204 can support the busbar unit 300 on the busbar holder 200. For example, the busbar support 204 can be formed to protrude from the busbar holder 200 at a specific (e.g., preset) height, thereby supporting the busbar unit 300 in the horizontal direction (e.g., the direction perpendicular to the z-axis).

[0091] Accordingly, the busbar support 204 can ensure or facilitate the stable maintenance of the electrical connection between the busbar unit 300 and the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110.

[0092] Busbar support 204 can prevent or substantially prevent multiple busbars in busbar unit 300 from being electrically connected to each other.

[0093] The busbar support 204 can spatially separate multiple busbar units by protruding at a specific (e.g., preset) height between busbar units 300 mounted on the busbar retainer 200.

[0094] Accordingly, the busbar support 204 can prevent or substantially prevent the busbar units 300 from connecting to each other, thereby preventing or substantially preventing short circuits within the battery module 10.

[0095] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The busbar unit 300 can electrically connect multiple battery cells 110 to each other, and may include a cell connection busbar 310 and a terminal connection busbar 320.

[0096] The busbar unit 300 may include conductive material and can be electrically connected by contacting the terminals 114 of the battery cell 110. That is, one side of the busbar unit 300 can contact the terminals 114 of the battery cell 110, and the other side can contact the terminals of another battery cell 110 or a component connected to the outside, thereby electrically connecting the components.

[0097] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The busbar unit 300 can simultaneously (e.g., synchronously) contact multiple battery cells 110 to electrically connect the battery cells 110 to each other. For example, the busbar unit 300 can be mounted on the busbar holder 200 to cover multiple terminal holes 202, thereby electrically connecting the terminals 114 of different battery cells 110 to each other.

[0098] The busbar unit 300 can be mounted on the busbar holder 200 and can be stably connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110.

[0099] In some embodiments, the busbar unit 300 can be supported in the height direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the battery module 10 by the busbar engagement portion 203 of the busbar holder 200, and in the horizontal direction (e.g., perpendicular to the z-axis direction) by the busbar support member 204, thereby being stably connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 exposed to the outside through the terminal hole 202.

[0100] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 2 A view of the first retainer section 400A; and Figure 8 It is along Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the first retainer portion 400A taken from line I-I'. Furthermore, Figure 9 It is shown Figure 2 A view of the second retainer section 400B; and Figure 10 It is along Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the second retainer section 400B taken from line I-I'.

[0101] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 The individual cell connecting busbar 310 can electrically connect the terminals 114 of multiple individual cells 110 to each other.

[0102] The individual cell connecting busbar 310 can be provided to electrically connect terminals 114 arranged adjacent to each other on the busbar holder 200, and can also be provided to electrically connect terminals 114 on the busbar holder 200 that are separated by a specific interval (e.g., a preset interval). Not limited thereto, the individual cell connecting busbar 310 can be provided in various shapes as needed to electrically connect the terminals 114 of different battery cells 110.

[0103] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 6 The terminal connecting busbar 320 can electrically connect the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 to the retainer portion 400. In some embodiments, one side of the terminal connecting busbar 320 is configured to cover at least one terminal hole 202, and the other side of the terminal connecting busbar 320 is connected to the retainer portion 400, thereby electrically connecting the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 to the retainer portion 400.

[0104] The terminal connection busbar 320 can form a connection space in the retainer portion 400. For example, one side of the terminal connection busbar 320 can be bent to form a step, and a space can be formed between the terminal connection busbar 320 and the busbar retainer 200.

[0105] The retainer section 400 can be inserted into the space between the terminal connection busbar 320 and the busbar retainer 200, and connected to the terminal connection busbar 320. Accordingly, the terminal connection busbar 320 can be stably connected to the retainer section 400.

[0106] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figures 7 to 10 The retainer portion 400 has one side connected to a terminal 114 of each of the plurality of battery cells 110 and another side connected to an end plate 500, and may include a first retainer portion 400A and a second retainer portion 400B.

[0107] In one embodiment, one side of the retainer portion 400 can be connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 via the busbar unit 300, and the other side of the retainer portion 400 can be connected to the end plate 500 to form a mechanical connection between the battery group 100 and the end plate 500. Accordingly, the end plate 500 can compress the battery group 100 to prevent or substantially prevent the battery cell 110 from expanding due to expansion.

[0108] The retainer portion 400 can be arranged to cover at least one battery cell 110. For example, the retainer portion 400 connects the end plate 500 to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 and can be arranged on the upper surface of the battery group 100 to cover at least one battery cell 110.

[0109] For example, the retainer portion 400 can be placed on the busbar retainer 200 disposed on the upper surface of the battery group 100, and at least one battery cell 110 can be covered by covering the busbar retainer 200. Accordingly, the retainer portion 400 can be stably placed within the battery module 10.

[0110] The bent side of the retainer portion 400 (which may also be referred to herein as the "first bent side") may cover a specific (e.g., predetermined) area of ​​the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500, for example, covering the area of ​​the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500 among a plurality of battery cells 110. In some embodiments, the retainer portion 400 may be bent at a position corresponding to the corner of the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500, and may compress the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500 in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells 110 are arranged (e.g., the x-axis direction).

[0111] Accordingly, the retainer section 400 can assist the end plate 500 in supporting the battery cells 110 in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells 110 are arranged.

[0112] The bent side of the retainer portion 400 can cover the corner area of ​​multiple battery cells 110 that contacts the end plate 500. The retainer portion 400 can cover the corner area of ​​multiple battery cells 110 that contacts the end plate 500 by utilizing the bent area of ​​the retainer portion 400, thereby directly providing support for the cover plate 112 of the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500.

[0113] Accordingly, the retainer portion 400 can provide (e.g., directly) support force to the cover plate 112 to prevent or substantially prevent breakage between the cover plate 112 and the housing 111.

[0114] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the first retainer portion 400A can electrically connect the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 to the external connection terminal E, and may include a first terminal body 410A and a first terminal housing 420A.

[0115] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The first terminal body 410A has one side connected to a terminal 114 of each of the plurality of battery cells 110 and another side connected to an external connection terminal E disposed on the end plate 500.

[0116] The first terminal body 410A can be electrically connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110. For example, the first terminal body 410A may include a conductive material and may have one side connected to the terminal 114 of each of the plurality of battery cells 110 to receive electrical energy from the plurality of battery cells 110.

[0117] The first terminal body 410A can be mechanically connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110. For example, the first terminal body 410A can be connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 by laser welding. However, the implementation is not limited to this, and various other connection methods such as ultrasonic welding or wave soldering can be used.

[0118] In one embodiment, the retainer portion 400 (e.g., the first terminal body 410A of the retainer portion 400) can be connected to the terminal 114 of each of the plurality of battery cells 110 via the busbar unit 300. In some embodiments, the first terminal body 410A can be connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 by connecting to the terminal connection busbar 320.

[0119] The first terminal body 410A can be mounted on the busbar holder 200 and connected to the terminal connection busbar 320 connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110, and thus electrically connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 connected to the terminal connection busbar 320.

[0120] For ease of explanation, the following description will focus on an embodiment in which the first terminal body 410A is connected to the battery cell 110 via the terminal connection busbar 320.

[0121] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 7 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the first terminal body 410A may have one side connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 and another side connected to the external connection terminal E arranged on the end plate 500, and may include a first a terminal body 411A and a first b terminal body 412A.

[0122] One side of the first a terminal body 411A can be connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110. In some embodiments, the first a terminal body 411A can be connected to a terminal connection busbar 320 having a side connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110, and can be electrically connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110.

[0123] The first a terminal body 411A may have another side that connects to the external connection terminal E provided on the end plate 500. For example, a first a external connection terminal hole 4111A may be formed in the first a terminal body 411A, through which the external connection terminal E may pass so that the external connection terminal E passing through the first a external connection terminal hole 4111A can be connected.

[0124] Accordingly, the external connection terminal E can be supported by the first a terminal body 411A, thereby achieving a stable electrical connection between the external connection terminal E and the first a terminal body 411A.

[0125] In one embodiment, the first a external connection terminal hole 4111A formed in the first a terminal body 411A can be formed in a shape corresponding to the cross-section of the external connection terminal E. That is, when the external connection terminal E passes through the first a external connection terminal hole 4111A, the inner peripheral surface of the first a external connection terminal hole 4111A and the external connection terminal E can contact each other and be electrically connected.

[0126] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 8 The first a terminal body 411A may cover at least one battery cell 110. For example, the first a terminal body 411A may have one side connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 and another side connected to the external connection terminal E, and the first a terminal body 411A covers the upper surface of at least one of the battery cells 110 between the one side and the other side.

[0127] For example, the first a-terminal body 411A can cover the battery cell 110 by covering the busbar holder 200 arranged on the upper surface of the battery cell 110. Accordingly, the first a-terminal body 411A can be stably placed in the battery module 10 by being supported by the battery cell 110 and the busbar holder 200.

[0128] The first a terminal body 411A can be accommodated in the first terminal housing 420A. The first a terminal body 411A can be accommodated in the hollow space formed in the first terminal housing 420A, such that a specific area (e.g., a preset area) of the first a terminal body 411A can be covered by the first terminal housing 420A.

[0129] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 7 The first a terminal body 411A is housed within the first terminal housing 420A, and one end of the first a terminal body 411A may be exposed to the outside. In one embodiment, for example, the first a terminal body 411A has opposite ends exposed to the outside, such that one end of the first a terminal body 411A may be connected to the terminal connection busbar 320, and the other end of the first a terminal body 411A may be connected to the external connection terminal E.

[0130] In other words, the first a terminal body 411A can be housed in the first terminal housing 420A, so that the opposite end of the first a terminal body 411A is exposed to the outside, thereby electrically connecting the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 connected to the terminal connecting busbar 320 to the external connection terminal E.

[0131] refer to Figure 8 The first a terminal body 411A may have a bent side to cover a specific area (e.g., a preset area) of the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500.

[0132] In some embodiments, the first a terminal body 411A may be bent at a position corresponding to the corner where it contacts the battery cell 110 and the end plate 500, such that the battery cell 110 in contact with the end plate 500 may be compressed in the direction in which the battery cell 110 is arranged (e.g., the x-axis direction).

[0133] Accordingly, the first a terminal body 411A can assist the end plate 500 in supporting the battery cell 110 in the direction in which the battery cell 110 is arranged (e.g., the x-axis direction).

[0134] The first a-terminal body 411A can be connected to the end plate 500. The first a-terminal body 411A and the end plate 500 can be connected to each other, for example, by welding or bolt and nut connection. Accordingly, the first a-terminal body 411A can fix the relative position of the end plate 500 with respect to the battery group 100.

[0135] In one embodiment, when the first a-terminal body 411A is housed in the first terminal housing 420A (described later), the first a-terminal body 411A can be connected to the end plate 500 by connecting the first terminal housing 420A to the end plate 500. That is, when connected to the terminal connection busbar 320, the first a-terminal body 411A can be housed inside the first terminal housing 420A connected to the end plate 500, thereby fixing the position of the end plate 500 relative to the battery pack 100.

[0136] For ease of explanation, the following description will focus on the embodiment in which the first a terminal body 411A is housed inside the first terminal housing 420A connected to the end plate 500 to describe the connection relationship between the first a terminal body 411A and the end plate 500.

[0137] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 7 The first b terminal body 412A may have a shape and function corresponding to the first a terminal body 411A.

[0138] For example, the first b terminal body 412A may include a conductive material and may have one end connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 and the other end connected to the external connection terminal E, so as to electrically connect the battery cell 110 and the external connection terminal E.

[0139] Furthermore, the first b-terminal body 412A covers at least one battery cell 110 and can be bent on one side of the first b-terminal body 412A to press the battery cell 110 in contact with the end plate 500 in the direction in which the battery cell 110 is arranged (e.g., the x-axis direction).

[0140] The first b external connection terminal hole 4121A can be formed in the first b terminal body 412A, and the external connection terminal E can pass through the first b external connection terminal hole 4121A and be electrically connected to the first b terminal body 412A.

[0141] The shape and function of the first b-terminal body 412A can correspond to the first a-terminal body 411A. Accordingly, further detailed description of the first b-terminal body 412A is omitted.

[0142] The first a-terminal body 411A and the first b-terminal body 412A can be connected to the terminal 114 of each battery cell 110, and can electrically connect the battery group 100 to an external configuration. For example, the first a-terminal body 411A and the first b-terminal body 412A can be connected to the terminals 114 corresponding to the cathode and anode of the battery group 100, respectively, to form an electrical closed circuit including the external configuration and the battery group 100.

[0143] exist Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 7In the illustration, the first a-terminal body 411A is shown to have a shape longer than the first b-terminal body 412A. However, the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to this, and the length relationship between the first a-terminal body 411A and the first b-terminal body 412A can be set differently depending on the design of the battery module 10. For example, the first a-terminal body 411A may have a shape shorter than the first b-terminal body 412A, or the first a-terminal body 411A and the first b-terminal body 412A may have the same length.

[0144] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The first terminal housing 420A may have a hollow internal space and can accommodate the first terminal body 410A. In some embodiments, a hollow space corresponding to the cross-section of the first terminal body 410A is formed in the first terminal housing 420A, so that the first terminal body 410A can be stably accommodated inside the first terminal housing 420A.

[0145] In one embodiment, two hollow spaces can be formed in the first terminal housing 420A, and the first a terminal body 411A and the first b terminal body 412A can be respectively accommodated in the two hollow spaces. The two hollow spaces formed in the first terminal housing 420A can be formed with shapes corresponding to the cross-sections of the first a terminal body 411A and the first b terminal body 412A, so that the first a terminal body 411A and the first b terminal body 412A can be stably supported inside the first terminal housing 420A without shaking.

[0146] The first terminal housing 420A can cover a specific area (e.g., a preset area) of the first terminal body 410A. The first terminal housing 420A can cover the specific area (e.g., the preset area) of the first terminal body 410A by accommodating the first terminal body 410A in the formed hollow space, and can isolate the specific area (e.g., the preset area) of the first terminal body 410A from the outside.

[0147] The first terminal housing 420A may include insulating material. That is, the first terminal housing 420A may cover a specific area (e.g., a predetermined area) of the first terminal body 410A to prevent or substantially prevent the first terminal body 410A from being electrically connected to components other than the terminal connection busbar 320 and the external connection terminal E. Accordingly, the first terminal housing 420A may prevent or substantially prevent short circuits within the battery module 10.

[0148] refer to Figure 8The first terminal housing 420A can be bent at one side to cover a specific area (e.g., a predetermined area) of the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500. In some embodiments, the first terminal housing 420A can be bent at a position corresponding to the corner where the battery cell 110 contacts the end plate 500 to compress the battery cell 110 in contact with the end plate 500 in the direction in which the battery cell 110 is arranged (e.g., the x-axis direction). Accordingly, the end plate 500 can assist in supporting the battery cells 110 in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells 110 are arranged.

[0149] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The first terminal housing 420A may include a first bend 421A formed by bending the first terminal housing 420A at a position corresponding to the corner where it contacts the battery cell 110 and the end plate 500. The first terminal housing 420A may include the first bend 421A formed at the bend position of the first terminal body 410A.

[0150] The first terminal housing 420A can cover the corner area of ​​the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500. In other words, the first terminal housing 420A can cover the corner area of ​​the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500 through the first bend 421A.

[0151] The first terminal housing 420A can provide (e.g., directly) support to the cover 112 through the corner area supporting the battery cell 110. Accordingly, the first terminal housing 420A can prevent or substantially prevent breakage between the cover 112 and the housing 111.

[0152] refer to Figure 8 The first terminal housing 420A can be coupled to the end plate 500. For example, the first terminal housing 420A can be coupled to the end plate 500 by inserting it into a locking groove 501 formed in the end plate 500.

[0153] In one embodiment, a first locking protrusion 422A may be formed, protruding on the side of the first terminal housing 420A that can be inserted into the end plate 500. The first locking protrusion 422A can be or is configured to engage with and be connected to the locking groove 501. The first locking protrusion 422A supports the first terminal housing 420A against the end plate 500 and may have a first locking surface 4222A and a first inclined surface 4221A.

[0154] The first inclined surface 4221A can be formed to be inclined toward the center of the locking groove 501, such that when the first terminal housing 420A is inserted into the locking groove 501 of the end plate 500, the first locking protrusion 422A can be bent toward the inside of the locking groove 501.

[0155] In other words, the first inclined surface 4221A can receive force from the inner peripheral surface of the locking groove 501, so that the first locking protrusion 422A elastically deforms toward the interior of the locking groove 501.

[0156] When the first terminal housing 420A is fully inserted into the locking groove 501, the first locking surface 4222A can contact the locking groove step portion 5011, which has a certain (e.g., preset) depth step at the bottom of the locking groove 501.

[0157] In some embodiments, when the first terminal housing 420A is fully inserted into the locking groove 501, the first locking surface 4222A can contact the inner peripheral surface of the locking groove step portion 5011 due to the elasticity of the first locking protrusion 422A. Therefore, the first locking surface 4222A can be supported by the locking groove step portion 5011, so that the first locking protrusion 422A can be supported by the locking groove 501.

[0158] In one embodiment, the first terminal housing 420A may have a plurality of first locking protrusions 422A. For example, the first terminal housing 420A may include a plurality of first locking protrusions 422A formed to face each other, such that when the first terminal housing 420A is inserted into the locking groove 501, the plurality of first locking protrusions 422A can elastically deform toward each other and provide elastic force to each other, thereby enabling the first locking surface 4222A to contact the locking groove step portion 5011.

[0159] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The first terminal housing 420A can provide space in which an external connection terminal E can be arranged. In some embodiments, the mounting slot 423A can be formed on one side of the first terminal housing 420A in the shape of a slot for mounting the external connection terminal E.

[0160] The mounting groove 423A formed in the first terminal housing 420A can be formed into a shape corresponding to the cross-section of the external connection terminal E, so that when the external connection terminal E is arranged in the mounting groove 423A, the external connection terminal E can be stably supported.

[0161] Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 7The figure shows a first retainer portion 400A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The first retainer portion 400A includes a pair of first a terminal bodies 411A and first b terminal bodies 412A and a first terminal housing 420A that accommodates the first a terminal bodies 411A and the first b terminal bodies 412A; however, the shape of the first retainer portion 400A is not limited thereto.

[0162] For example, although not shown in the figures, in another embodiment of this disclosure, the first retainer portion 400A may include a single first terminal body and a first terminal housing that accommodates the first terminal body.

[0163] The external connection terminal E can be electrically connected to the first terminal body 410A, and the battery cell 110 can be electrically connected to the external component.

[0164] The external connection terminal E can be mounted on the first terminal housing 420A and can be stably supported. For example, when the external connection terminal E is disposed in the mounting groove 423A, one side of the external connection terminal E can pass through the first a external connection terminal hole 4111A and the first b external connection terminal hole 4121A, and the other side of the external connection terminal E disposed in the mounting groove 423A can be covered by the first terminal body 410A to be supported in the direction toward the end plate 500 (e.g., the direction opposite to the z-axis).

[0165] In one embodiment, an external thread may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the external connection terminal E to facilitate connection with an external component. However, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the external connection terminal may have any of various shapes to facilitate connection with an external component.

[0166] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the second retainer portion 400B connects each terminal 114 of different battery cells 110 and may include a second terminal body 410B and a second terminal housing 420B.

[0167] The second retainer portion 400B may differ from the first retainer portion 400A described above only in some shape and function, and any part of the shape and function of the second retainer portion 400B that overlaps with the shape and function of the first retainer portion 400A may be omitted or briefly described.

[0168] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10The second terminal body 410B can electrically connect the terminals 114 of different battery cells 110. For example, the second terminal body 410B can include a conductive material and can be connected at opposite ends to the terminals 114 of different battery cells 110 to electrically connect the individual terminals 114 to each other.

[0169] The second terminal body 410B may have one side connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 and the other side connected to the end plate 500.

[0170] For example, the second terminal body 410B can be connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 by being connected at one end to the terminal connection busbar 320 (which is connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110), and can be connected to the end plate 500 by being housed at the other end in the second terminal housing 420B (which is connected to the end plate 500).

[0171] The second terminal body 410B can cover a specific area (e.g., a predetermined area) of the battery cell 110 that is bent on one side and contacts the end plate 500. In one embodiment, the second terminal body 410B is bent at a position corresponding to the corner of the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500, so as to compress the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500 in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells 110 are arranged, thereby assisting the end plate 500 in compressing the battery cell 110.

[0172] The second terminal housing 420B may have a hollow internal space and can accommodate the second terminal body 410B. In some embodiments, a hollow space corresponding to the cross-section of the second terminal body 410B may be formed in the second terminal housing 420B, so that the second terminal body 410B can be accommodated in the hollow space of the second terminal housing 420B and supported without wobbling.

[0173] The second terminal housing 420B may include insulating material and may cover a specific area (e.g., a predetermined area) of the second terminal body 410B. That is, the second terminal housing 420B can electrically isolate the second terminal body 410B from the outside, thereby preventing or substantially preventing short circuits within the battery module 10.

[0174] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The second terminal housing 420B may include a second bent portion 421B formed by bending at a position corresponding to the corner that contacts the battery cell 110 and the end plate 500.

[0175] The second terminal housing 420B can provide (e.g., directly) support to the cover plate 112 by covering the corner area of ​​the battery cell 110 that contacts the end plate 500 through the second bend 421B. Accordingly, the second terminal housing 420B can provide (e.g., directly) support to the cover plate 112 to prevent or substantially prevent breakage between the cover plate 112 and the housing 111.

[0176] refer to Figure 10 The second terminal housing 420B can be connected to the end plate 500. In some embodiments, a second locking protrusion 422B that can be inserted into a locking groove 501 of the end plate 500 can be formed to protrude into the second terminal housing 420B, such that the second terminal housing 420B can engage with and be connected to the end plate 500.

[0177] In one embodiment, the second locking protrusion 422B may have a second inclined surface 4221B and a second locking surface 4222B. The second inclined surface 4221B may receive force from the inner peripheral surface of the locking groove 501, such that the second locking protrusion 422B bends when the second terminal housing 420B is inserted into the locking groove 501 of the end plate 500.

[0178] When the second terminal housing 420B is fully inserted into the end plate 500, the second locking surface 4222B can support the second terminal housing 420B against the end plate 500 by contacting the locking groove step portion 5011.

[0179] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery module 10 may include a pair of retainer portions 400, which are arranged facing each other on opposite sides along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells 110 are arranged.

[0180] In some embodiments, the battery module 10 may include a first retainer portion 400A at one end of the battery group 100 to connect the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 to the end plate 500, and may include a second retainer portion 400B at the other end of the battery group 100 facing the first retainer portion 400A to connect the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 to the end plate 500.

[0181] Accordingly, the retainer portion 400 can suppress the expansion of the battery due to expansion or the like by supporting the end plate 500 for compressing the battery group 100 at the opposite end of the battery group 100 or by directly supporting the battery cell 110 at the opposite end of the battery group 100.

[0182] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 8 and Figure 10 The end plate 500 can be placed on the opposite side of the battery group 100 in the direction in which the multiple battery cells 110 are arranged.

[0183] The paired end plates 500 can be arranged on opposite sides of the battery pack 100 to absorb the pressure caused by expansion in the battery cell 110 during charging and discharging operations. Accordingly, the end plates 500 can prevent or substantially prevent performance degradation of the battery cell 110 and improve the structural stability of the battery module 10.

[0184] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 10 The end plate 500 can be connected to the retainer portion 400. For example, a locking groove 501 with a specific depth (e.g., a preset depth) can be formed in the end plate 500 so that the retainer portion 400 can be inserted into the locking groove 501 and engaged with the locking groove 501, so that the end plate 500 is connected to the retainer portion 400.

[0185] The locking groove 501 formed in the end plate 500 provides space in which the first terminal housing 420A and the second terminal housing 420B can be inserted. The locking groove 501 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the cross-section of the first terminal housing 420A and the second terminal housing 420B, such that when the first terminal housing 420A and the second terminal housing 420B are inserted into the locking groove 501, the first terminal housing 420A and the second terminal housing 420B can be supported by the inner peripheral surface of the locking groove 501.

[0186] A locking groove step portion 5011 may be formed on the inner side of the locking groove 501 formed in the end plate 500. In one embodiment, the locking groove step portion 5011 having a specific (e.g., preset) depth may be formed at the lower part of the locking groove 501. The locking groove step portion 5011 may contact the first locking protrusion 422A and the second locking protrusion 422B, such that the first terminal housing 420A and the second terminal housing 420B can be supported in the direction of the end plate 500 (e.g., the direction opposite to the z-axis).

[0187] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The end plate 500 may include a pair of end plates 500, and the pair of end plates 500 may be connected to each other via the side plate 600.

[0188] For example, each end plate 500 can be connected to a pair of side plates 600 for covering the side surface of the battery cell 110 by welding or the like, and thus the end plates 500 can be connected to each other.

[0189] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The side plate 600 can cover one side of the battery cell 110 and can be connected to a pair of end plates 500. The side plate 600 can laterally (e.g., in the y-axis direction) support the battery cell 110 to improve the structural stability of the battery module 10.

[0190] Here, the configuration, working principle and effects of the battery module 10 and the battery pack 1 including the battery module 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0191] refer to Figure 1 The battery pack 1 may include battery modules 10 and battery pack housing 20. The battery modules 10 can transmit electrical energy stored in each of the individual battery cells 110 to an electrically connected external source, and the battery pack housing 20 can accommodate multiple battery modules 10.

[0192] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The battery module 10 may include a battery group 100, a busbar holder 200, a busbar unit 300, an end plate 500, and a side plate 600.

[0193] refer to Figure 3 The battery group 100 can be formed by arranging multiple battery cells 110. For example, the multiple battery cells 110 can be arranged to be connected to each other in the thickness direction to improve energy density.

[0194] Multiple battery cells 110 may each include terminals 114 and can transmit electrical energy to the outside. The cell-connecting busbar 310 of the busbar unit 300 can connect the terminals 114 of different battery cells 110 to each other. The terminal-connecting busbar 320 of the busbar unit 300 can connect the terminals of the battery cells 110 to external connection terminals E to transmit the energy of the battery cells 100 to the outside.

[0195] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6The busbar holder 200 provides space in which the busbar unit 300 is mounted for electrical connection with the terminals 114 of the battery cell 110. For example, a terminal hole 202 may be formed in the busbar holder 200 so that the terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 can pass through and be exposed to the outside, and the busbar unit 300 may be arranged to cover the terminal hole 202 so that the busbar unit 300 and the terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 can be connected to each other.

[0196] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The busbar holder 200 may have a support structure capable of supporting the busbar unit 300. For example, the busbar holder 200 may have a busbar engagement portion 203 to support the busbar unit 300 against the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110.

[0197] In some embodiments, the busbar retainer 200 may include a busbar support 204 for supporting the busbar unit 300 in the horizontal direction and for separating spaces so that different busbar units 300 do not come into contact with each other.

[0198] refer to Figures 7 to 10 The retainer section 400 can connect the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 to the end plate 500, so that the end plate 500 can prevent or substantially prevent the battery group 100 from expanding due to the expansion of the battery cell 110.

[0199] The retainer portion 400 may include a first retainer portion 400A and a second retainer portion 400B respectively arranged on opposite sides of the battery group 100 in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells 110 are arranged, thereby squeezing the battery group 100 in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells 100 are arranged, thereby preventing or substantially preventing the battery group 100 from expanding due to expansion.

[0200] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The first retainer portion 400A can electrically connect the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 to the external connection terminal E, and the first retainer portion 400A can have one side connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 and the other side connected to the end plate 500.

[0201] For example, the first retainer portion 400A may have one side connected to the terminal connection busbar 320 connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110, and the other side housed in the first terminal housing 420A which is connected to and thus connected to the end plate 500.

[0202] The first terminal body 410A of the first retainer portion 400A can be accommodated in the hollow space formed in the first terminal housing 420A, and the first terminal housing 420A can be inserted into the locking groove 501 formed in the end plate 500, and engage with and connect with the locking groove 501.

[0203] The first retainer portion 400A can be bent at a position corresponding to the corner adjacent to the end plate 500 of the battery cell 110, supporting a specific area (e.g., a preset area) in the battery cell 110, and can provide (e.g., directly provide) support force to the cover plate 112.

[0204] Accordingly, the first retainer portion 400A can connect the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 to the end plate 500, so that the end plate 500 can compress the battery cell 110 in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells 110 are arranged, and can provide support force to the cover plate 112 to prevent or substantially prevent breakage between the cover plate 112 and the housing 111.

[0205] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The second retainer section 400B electrically connects the terminals 114 of different battery cells 110 to each other. The second retainer section 400B has one side connected to the terminals 114 of the battery cells 110 and the other side connected to the end plate 500.

[0206] For example, the second retainer portion 400B may have one side connected to the terminal connection busbar 320 connected to the terminal 114 of the battery cell 110, and the other side housed in the second terminal housing 420B connected to and thus connected to the end plate 500.

[0207] The second terminal body 410B of the second retainer portion 400B can be accommodated in the hollow space formed in the second terminal housing 420B, and the second terminal housing 420B can be inserted into the locking groove 501 formed in the end plate 500, and engage with and connect with the locking groove 501.

[0208] The second retainer portion 400B can be bent at a position corresponding to the corner adjacent to the end plate 500 of the battery cell 110, supporting a specific area (e.g., a preset area) in the battery cell 110, and can provide (e.g., directly provide) support force to the cover plate 112.

[0209] Accordingly, the second retainer portion 400B can connect the terminals 114 of the battery cell 110 to the end plate 500, so that the end plate 500 can compress the battery cell 110 in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells 110 are arranged, and can provide support force to the cover plate 112 to prevent or substantially prevent breakage between the cover plate 112 and the housing 111.

[0210] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery module 10 and the battery pack 1 including the battery module 10 can suppress the expansion of the battery cells 110 by using a pair of retainer portions 400 respectively arranged on opposite sides of the battery pack 100 to compress the battery pack 100 in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells 110 are arranged. Accordingly, the cracking of the housing 111 and cover plate 112 of each of the battery cells 110 due to repeated expansion of the battery cells 110 can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0211] Regarding a battery module and a battery pack including the battery module according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, squeezing a plurality of arranged battery cells prevents or substantially prevents expansion, thereby preventing or substantially preventing structural breakage of the battery cells.

[0212] However, the aspects and effects that can be obtained through this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand, based on the description of this disclosure, other technical aspects and effects that are not described.

[0213] The spirit of this disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, and all scopes, including but not limited to the scope of the claims, as well as all scopes equivalent to or modified by the claims, are included within the spirit of this disclosure.

[0214] Although this disclosure has been described above with reference to some exemplary embodiments and accompanying drawings, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications within the scope of the technical concept and the equivalents of the claims.

Claims

1. A battery module, comprising: A battery group, wherein multiple battery cells are arranged in the battery group; The busbar unit electrically connects the battery cells among the plurality of battery cells to each other; A pair of end plates are respectively arranged on opposite sides of the battery group in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged; as well as The retainer includes one side connected to a terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells and another side connected to the end plate. The retainer covers at least one of the plurality of battery cells and has a bent first side that covers the area of ​​the battery cell that contacts the end plate.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The retainer includes: A terminal body, comprising a conductive material and having one side connected to the terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells; and A terminal housing having a hollow internal space and having one side connected to the end plate, the terminal housing being configured to accommodate the terminal body.

3. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein, The terminal housing includes a recessed groove that allows external connection terminals to be placed within it.

4. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein, The end plate further includes: a locking groove having a depth therein; and The terminal housing has a locking protrusion configured to be snapped into the locking slot by the locking slot and protruding on the side of the terminal housing that can be inserted into the end plate.

5. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein, The terminal body includes one side connected to the terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells and another side connected to an external connection terminal disposed on the end plate.

6. The battery module according to claim 2, wherein, The terminal body electrically connects the corresponding terminals of different battery cells to each other.

7. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The retainer includes a pair of retainers, and The pair of retainers are arranged facing each other on opposite sides along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged.

8. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The retainer is connected to the terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells via the busbar unit.

9. The battery module according to claim 8, further comprising: A busbar retainer covers the upper part of the battery pack and has terminal holes through which the terminals of each of the plurality of battery cells pass. The busbar unit is connected to the busbar holder and is in contact with the plurality of battery cells.

10. The battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The first side of the bend in the retainer covers the corner area of ​​the plurality of battery cells that contacts the end plate.

11. A battery pack, comprising: Multiple battery modules; as well as A battery pack housing, in which the plurality of battery modules are housed. The battery modules among the plurality of battery modules include: A battery group, wherein multiple battery cells are arranged in the battery group; The busbar unit electrically connects the battery cells among the plurality of battery cells to each other; A pair of end plates are respectively arranged on opposite sides of the battery group in the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged; and The retainer includes one side connected to a terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells and another side connected to the end plate. The retainer covers at least one of the plurality of battery cells and has a bent first side that covers the area of ​​the battery cell that contacts the end plate.

12. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein, The retainer includes: A terminal body, comprising a conductive material and having one side connected to the terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells; and A terminal housing having a hollow internal space and having one side connected to the end plate, the terminal housing being configured to accommodate the terminal body.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, The terminal housing includes a recessed groove that allows external connection terminals to be placed within it.

14. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, The end plate further includes: a locking groove having a depth therein; and The terminal housing has a locking protrusion configured to be snapped into the locking slot by the locking slot and protruding on the side of the terminal housing that can be inserted into the end plate.

15. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, The terminal body includes one side connected to the terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells and another side connected to an external connection terminal disposed on the end plate.

16. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, The terminal body electrically connects the corresponding terminals of different battery cells to each other.

17. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein, The retainer includes a pair of retainers, and The pair of retainers are arranged facing each other on opposite sides along the direction in which the plurality of battery cells are arranged.

18. The battery pack according to claim 11, wherein, The retainer is connected to the terminal of each of the plurality of battery cells via the busbar unit.

19. The battery pack according to claim 18, wherein, The battery module further includes: A busbar retainer covers the upper part of the battery pack and has terminal holes through which the terminals of each of the plurality of battery cells pass. The busbar unit is connected to the busbar holder and is in contact with the plurality of battery cells.

20. The battery pack according to any one of claims 11 to 19, wherein, The first side of the bend in the retainer covers the corner area of ​​the plurality of battery cells that contacts the end plate.

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