Secondary battery and method of manufacturing secondary battery

Abstract

The disclosure provides a secondary battery including: an electrode assembly in which positive electrodes and negative electrodes are alternately stacked with a separator disposed between the positive electrodes and the negative electrodes; a positive electrode case covering the electrode assembly and maintained in electrical connection to the positive electrodes; a negative electrode case covering the electrode assembly and maintained in electrical connection to the negative electrodes; and a case coupled to the positive electrode case and the negative electrode case to seal the electrode assembly, wherein the positive electrodes and the negative electrodes on which a slitting process is not performed are respectively coupled to the positive electrode case and the negative electrode case. In the secondary battery and the method of manufacturing a secondary battery according to the embodiment of the disclosure, an additional slitting process for providing a positive electrode non-coated portion in the positive electrode and a negative electrode non-coated portion in the negative electrode is omitted, and instead, the positive electrode non-coated portion is connected to the positive electrode case and the negative electrode non-coated portion is connected to the negative electrode case. Accordingly, the efficiency of the manufacturing process is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a secondary battery and a method for manufacturing a secondary battery. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, as demand for portable electronic devices such as laptops, cameras, and mobile phones increases, and the commercialization of robots, electric vehicles, and the like has officially begun, research and development of high-performance rechargeable batteries that can be repeatedly charged and discharged is also increasing.

[0003] Secondary batteries are widely used not only to power small devices such as portable electronic devices, but also to power medium and large-sized devices such as electric vehicles or energy storage systems (ESS), or for storing energy. In the case of medium and large-sized devices, multiple battery cells are electrically connected to form a battery module to increase the battery's output and / or capacity.

[0004] A secondary battery includes an electrode assembly comprising a pair of electrodes (i.e., a positive electrode and a negative electrode) and a separator between the electrodes. The processes for manufacturing the electrodes of a secondary battery include mixing, coating, rolling, slitting, and grooving.

[0005] In the mixing process, a slurry is prepared by mixing the active materials and solvents required for battery manufacturing. In the coating process, the electrode slurry is used to thinly and uniformly coat copper and aluminum foils. In the rolling process, the coated electrodes are compressed thinly by rolling. In the slitting process, the compressed electrodes are longitudinally cut according to the desired battery size. In the grooving process, connecting pieces are formed by cutting away unwanted uncoated portions. Metallic foreign objects may be generated in the grooving process.

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

[0007] This disclosure aims to provide a secondary battery and a method for manufacturing a secondary battery, which can solve the problems of electrode plate detachment, burrs and metal foreign objects generated during the electrode process, omit the grooving process to solve the problem of contact defects of the connecting pieces generated during the assembly process, and improve process efficiency and reduce product defects by using all uncoated parts.

[0008] These and other aspects and features of this disclosure will be described in, or will become apparent from, the following description of some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a secondary battery is provided, comprising: an electrode assembly wherein positive and negative electrodes are alternately stacked, and a separator is disposed between the positive and negative electrodes; a positive electrode housing covering the electrode assembly and maintaining an electrical connection to the positive electrode; a negative electrode housing covering the electrode assembly and maintaining an electrical connection to the negative electrode; and a casing coupled to the positive and negative electrode housings to seal the electrode assembly, wherein the positive and negative electrodes thereon, which have not undergone a grooving process, are respectively coupled to the positive and negative electrode housings.

[0010] The positive electrode may include a positive electrode plate, the positive electrode plate including a positive electrode coated portion in which an active substance is coated, and a positive electrode uncoated portion disposed at each of the two edges of the positive electrode plate, which is not coated with an active substance and is connected to the positive electrode housing.

[0011] The uncoated portion of the positive electrode can be configured to have a length in a first direction.

[0012] The negative electrode may include a negative electrode plate, the negative electrode plate including a negative electrode coated portion in which an active substance is coated, and a negative electrode uncoated portion disposed at each of the two edges of the negative electrode plate, which is not coated with an active substance and is connected to the negative electrode housing.

[0013] The uncoated portion of the negative electrode can be configured to have a length in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0014] The length of the uncoated portion of the positive electrode can be 150% to 200% of the length of the uncoated portion of the negative electrode.

[0015] The length of the negative electrode coating portion in the first direction may be greater than the width of the positive electrode coating portion in the second direction, and the diaphragm may prevent contact between the positive electrode coating portion and the negative electrode coating portion.

[0016] The diaphragm can be formed separately and disposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode.

[0017] The diaphragms can be stacked in a serrated pattern, and the positive electrode and the negative electrode can be alternately inserted into the diaphragms.

[0018] The positive electrode housing may include: a positive electrode cover, in which a positive electrode terminal is formed; a positive electrode connecting member electrically connected to the positive electrode and to the positive electrode terminal; and a positive electrode insulating member insulating the positive electrode connecting member.

[0019] The positive electrode connection member may include: a positive electrode connection cover plate to which the positive electrode insulating member is attached; a positive electrode connection protrusion protruding from the positive electrode connection cover plate and connected to the positive electrode terminal; and a positive electrode connection plate extending from the positive electrode connection cover plate and electrically connected to the positive electrode.

[0020] The positive electrode insulating member may include two or more of the following: a first positive electrode insulating portion attached to the upper surface of the positive electrode connecting cover plate; a second positive electrode insulating portion attached to the lower surface of the positive electrode connecting cover plate; and a third positive electrode insulating portion attached to the outer periphery of the positive electrode connecting protrusion.

[0021] The negative electrode housing may include: a negative electrode cover, in which negative electrode terminals are formed; a negative electrode connecting member electrically connected to the negative electrode and to the negative electrode terminals; and a negative electrode insulating member insulating the negative electrode connecting member.

[0022] The negative electrode connection member may include: a negative electrode connection cover plate, to which the negative electrode insulating member is attached; a negative electrode connection protrusion protruding from the negative electrode connection cover plate and connected to a negative electrode terminal; and a negative electrode connection plate extending from the negative electrode connection cover plate and electrically connected to the negative electrode.

[0023] The negative electrode insulating member may include two or more of the following: a first negative electrode insulating portion attached to the upper surface of the negative electrode connecting cover plate; a second negative electrode insulating portion attached to the lower surface of the negative electrode connecting cover plate; and a third negative electrode insulating portion attached to the outer periphery of the negative electrode connecting protrusion.

[0024] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery is provided, comprising: an electrode production operation for producing a positive electrode and a negative electrode; an electrode assembly operation for alternately stacking the positive electrode and the negative electrode without performing a grooving process on the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and disposing a separator between the positive electrode and the negative electrode; an electrode connection operation for electrically connecting a positive electrode housing to the positive electrode and a negative electrode housing to the negative electrode; and an electrode sealing operation for connecting a housing to the positive electrode housing and the negative electrode housing to seal the positive electrode and the negative electrode.

[0025] In the electrode assembly operation, the diaphragm can be formed separately and disposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode.

[0026] In the electrode assembly operation, the diaphragms can be stacked in a serrated pattern, and the positive electrode and the negative electrode can be alternately inserted into the diaphragms.

[0027] In the electrode connection operation, the uncoated portion of the positive electrode that has not undergone the grooving process can be welded to the positive electrode housing, and the uncoated portion of the negative electrode that has not undergone the grooving process can be welded to the negative electrode housing.

[0028] In the electrode sealing operation, the housing having a quadrilateral cross-section can be connected to the positive electrode housing and the negative electrode housing to seal the internal space of the positive electrode housing and the negative electrode housing. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The accompanying drawings illustrate some embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description of the present disclosure, further describe aspects and features of the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the drawings:

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of the exterior of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 2 This is an exploded schematic perspective view of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the positive electrode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a negative electrode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic plan view of a stacked state of positive and negative electrodes according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a method for stacking electrode assemblies according to a first example of this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a method for stacking electrode assemblies according to a second example of this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the positive electrode housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the negative electrode housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the negative electrode insulating member according to the first example of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the negative electrode insulating member according to the second example of this disclosure;

[0041] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the negative electrode insulating member according to the third example of this disclosure;

[0042] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the uncoated portion of the positive electrode is welded to the positive electrode shell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0044] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram showing the uncoated portion of the negative electrode being welded to the negative electrode housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0045] In this document, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in further 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 conventional or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as consistent with the technical ideas of the present disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor is capable of being his / her own lexicographer to appropriately define the terms and concepts.

[0046] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are provided only as some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and do not represent all technical ideas, aspects, and features of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications can exist that can replace or modify the embodiments described herein at the time of filing this application.

[0047] It should be understood that when a component or layer is referred to as being "on" another component or layer, "connected to," or "attached to" another component or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or attached to the other component or layer, or one or more intermediate components or layers may be present. When a component or layer is referred to as being "directly on" another component or layer, "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another component or layer, no intermediate components or layers are present. For example, when a first component is described as being "attached" or "connected" to a second component, the first component can be directly attached to or connected to the second component, or the first component can be indirectly attached to or connected to the second component via one or more intermediate components.

[0048] In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be enlarged for clarity of illustration. The same reference numerals indicate the same or similar elements. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more associated listed items. Furthermore, the use of “may” in describing embodiments of this disclosure refers to “one or more embodiments of this disclosure.” Expressions such as “at least one of…” and “any one of…” preceding / following the list of elements modify the entire list of elements, but not individual elements in the 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 specify a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrase may refer to any and all suitable combinations or subsets of A, B, and C, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the term “use” may be considered synonymous with the term “utilize.” As used herein, the terms “roughly,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximations rather than terms of degree and are intended to account for the inherent variations in measurements or calculations that would be apparent to a person skilled in the art.

[0049] It should 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.

[0050] For ease of description, this document may use spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” “up,” etc., to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the figures. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features may be oriented as “above” or “upon” other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0051] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to be limiting of 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 should be further understood that, as used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0052] Furthermore, any numerical range disclosed and / or enumerated herein includes all subranges with the same numerical precision contained within the enumerated range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” includes all subranges between the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0 (and includes both the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0), i.e., a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit enumerated herein includes all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit enumerated herein includes all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly enumerate any subranges contained within the scope expressly enumerated herein.

[0053] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” may mean that they are “substantially identical.” Therefore, the phrase “substantially identical” can include cases with deviations considered low in the art, such as less than 5%. Furthermore, when a parameter is said to be consistent in a given region, this may mean that it is consistent in terms of average value.

[0054] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0055] When an element is described as being positioned (or located or arranged) "above (or below)" or "on top (or below)" a component, it may mean that the element is placed in contact with the upper (or lower) surface of the component, or it may mean that another component may be located between the component and any element positioned (or located or arranged) on (or below) that component.

[0056] Furthermore, it should be understood that when a component is referred to as being “connected,” “linked,” or “attached” to another component, these components may be directly “connected,” “linked,” or “attached” to each other, or one or more intermediate components may exist between them, through which the component can be “connected,” “linked,” or “attached” to the other component. Additionally, when a part is referred to as being “electrically connected” to another part, that part may be directly electrically connected to the other part, or one or more intermediate parts may exist between them, such that the part and the other part are indirectly electrically connected to each other.

[0057] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, when “A and / or B” is used, it means A, B, or A and B. In other words, “and / or” includes any or all combinations of the listed items. Unless otherwise indicated, when “C to D” is used, it means C and below.

[0058] In the following description of this disclosure with reference to multiple embodiments, redundant descriptions of components that are always the same or correspond to each other in the multiple embodiments will be omitted. For example, if a component disclosed in one embodiment is the same or corresponds to another component disclosed in another embodiment, the description of that component will be omitted in a later embodiment, and in another embodiment, components that differ from those in one embodiment will be described primarily.

[0059] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of the exterior of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 This is an exploded schematic perspective view of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (See reference) Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a secondary battery 1 includes an electrode assembly 10, a positive electrode housing 20, a negative electrode housing 30, and a casing 40.

[0060] In the electrode assembly 10, the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 can be stacked alternately, and the diaphragm 13 can be disposed between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12.

[0061] In the following description, a secondary battery 1, which is a prismatic lithium-ion battery cell, will be used as an example. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the secondary battery 1 may be, for example, a lithium polymer battery or a cylindrical battery.

[0062] The positive electrode housing 20 may cover the electrode assembly 10 and be electrically connected to the positive electrode 11. The positive electrode housing 20 may cover a portion of the electrode assembly 10 and may be disconnected from the negative electrode 12. Figure 2 As shown, the positive electrode housing 20 can cover the lower part of the electrode assembly 10 and is connected to the positive electrode 11 of the electrode assembly 10 in the x-axis direction.

[0063] The negative electrode housing 30 may cover the electrode assembly 10 and be electrically connected to the negative electrode 12. The negative electrode housing 30 may cover a portion of the electrode assembly 10 and may be disconnected from the positive electrode 11. Figure 2 As shown, the negative electrode housing 30 can cover the upper part of the electrode assembly 10 and is connected to the negative electrode 12 of the electrode assembly 10 in the y-axis direction.

[0064] The housing 40 can be connected to the positive electrode housing 20 and the negative electrode housing 30 to seal the electrode assembly 10. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the housing 40 can cover the electrode assembly 10 in the x-axis and y-axis directions.

[0065] The positive electrode 11 and negative electrode 12, which omit the grooving process, can be connected to the positive electrode housing 20 and the negative electrode housing 30, respectively. In other words, in this disclosure, after the slitting process of cutting each of the positive electrode 11 and negative electrode 12 in the width direction, the grooving process conventionally performed to form a bonding pad in the area other than the active material layer can be omitted. Therefore, the problems of burrs, foreign matter, or wrinkles generated in the grooving process can be solved.

[0066] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the positive electrode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (See reference) Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the positive electrode 11 may include a positive electrode plate 111, which may include a positive electrode coated portion or portion 112 and a positive electrode uncoated portion 113.

[0067] The positive electrode plate 111 can be a current collector formed of a thin metal foil. For example, the positive electrode plate 111 can be an aluminum foil.

[0068] The positive electrode coating portion 112 can be the area in which the positive electrode plate 111 is coated with a positive electrode active material. For example, the positive electrode active material can be a transition metal oxide, such as LiCoO2, LiNiO2, LiMn2O4, etc.

[0069] The uncoated portion 113 of the positive electrode can be the area of ​​the positive electrode plate 111 in which the positive electrode active material is not coated. The uncoated portion 113 of the positive electrode can be connected to the positive electrode housing 20.

[0070] Multiple positive electrode coated portions 112 may be spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the positive electrode plate 111 and coated with positive electrode active material. They are cut in the width direction of the positive electrode plate 111 during a slitting process, so that the positive electrode coated portions 112 can be disposed on the positive electrode plate 111. In this case, the two sides of the positive electrode plate 111 in the width direction may be uncoated portions 113.

[0071] The uncoated portion 113 of the positive electrode can be configured to have a length in a first direction. The first direction can be as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 The y-axis direction is shown in the figure. The positive electrode coated portion 112 may be disposed between the positive electrode uncoated portions 113, which are disposed separately in the x-axis direction corresponding to the width direction of the positive electrode 11.

[0072] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a negative electrode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (See reference) Figure 2 and Figure 4 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the negative electrode 12 may include a negative electrode plate 121, and the negative electrode plate 121 may include a negative electrode coated portion or portion 122 and a negative electrode uncoated portion 123.

[0073] The negative electrode plate 121 can be a current collector formed of a thin metal foil. For example, the negative electrode plate 121 can be a copper foil.

[0074] The negative electrode coating portion 122 can be a region of the negative electrode plate 121 in which a negative electrode active material such as graphite or carbon is coated.

[0075] The uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode can be the area of ​​the negative electrode plate 121 in which the negative electrode active material is not coated. The uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode can be connected to the negative electrode housing 30.

[0076] Multiple negative electrode coated portions 122 may be spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the negative electrode plate 121, and are coated with negative electrode active material, and are cut in the width direction of the negative electrode plate 121 during a slitting process. Therefore, negative electrode coated portions 122 can be provided on the negative electrode plate 121. In this case, both sides of the negative electrode plate 121 in the width direction may be uncoated portions 123 of the negative electrode.

[0077] The uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode can be configured to have a length in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second direction can be as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 4 The x-axis direction is shown. The negative electrode coated portion 122 can be disposed between the negative electrode uncoated portions 123, which are disposed separately in the y-axis direction corresponding to the width direction of the negative electrode 12.

[0078] refer to Figure 2The positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 can be stacked in the z-axis direction, and a diaphragm 13 can be disposed between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 to electrically separate the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12. The diaphragm 13 can be formed of, for example, polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP).

[0079] Figure 5 This is a schematic plan view showing a stacked state of positive and negative electrodes according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (See reference) Figure 5 The negative electrode 12, diaphragm 13, positive electrode 11, and diaphragm 13 can be stacked sequentially and repeatedly. Diaphragm 13 can cover the negative electrode coated portion 122, and the edge of diaphragm 13 can cover a portion of the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode. Diaphragm 13 can cover the positive electrode coated portion 112, and the edge of diaphragm 13 can cover a portion of the uncoated portion 113 of the positive electrode. That is, direct contact between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 is prevented by diaphragm 13. Diaphragm 13 can have dimensions that cover both the negative electrode coated portion 122 and the positive electrode coated portion 112.

[0080] refer to Figures 3 to 5 The positive electrode 11 has a length in the y-axis direction and a width in the x-axis direction. The negative electrode 12 has a length in the x-axis direction and a width in the y-axis direction.

[0081] The width b1 of the negative electrode coating portion 122 may be greater than the width a1 of the positive electrode coating portion 112. In other embodiments, the width a1 of the positive electrode coating portion 112 may be equal to the width b1 of the negative electrode coating portion 122, or the width a1 of the positive electrode coating portion 112 may be greater than the width b1 of the negative electrode coating portion 122.

[0082] The length of the positive electrode plate 111 can be the length a2 of the uncoated portion 113 of the positive electrode, and the length of the negative electrode plate 121 can be the length b2 of the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode.

[0083] In a particular embodiment, the length a2 of the uncoated portion 113 of the positive electrode can be 8 to 12 μm, and the length b2 of the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode can be 4 to 8 μm.

[0084] The load level can be varied depending on the foam coefficient of the secondary battery 1 and the size of the casing 40. As an example, the positive electrode 11 can have a load of 63 mg / cm³. 2 The maximum load level, and the negative electrode 12 can have 40 mg / cm 2 The maximum load level.

[0085] In this disclosure, since the electrode plates manufactured in the coating process can be used in stacked structures without a grooving process, there is no limitation on the size of the electrode plates. However, when there is a large dimensional difference between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12, the length difference between the uncoated portion 113 of the positive electrode and the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode increases, and the difference in thermal resistance due to resistance may increase. When considering the conductivity of aluminum and copper, the length a2 of the uncoated portion 113 of the positive electrode formed of aluminum can be 150% to 200% of the length b2 of the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode formed of copper.

[0086] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a method for stacking electrode assemblies according to a first example of this disclosure. (See reference) Figure 6 In the electrode assembly 10 according to the first example, a diaphragm 13 can be formed separately and disposed between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12. The size of the diaphragm 13 can cover both the positive electrode coating portion 112 and the negative electrode coating portion 122. Figure 6 In this configuration, the negative electrode housing 30 can be disposed on both sides of the negative electrode 12, and the negative electrode housing 30 and the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode can be connected by welding. In this configuration, the diaphragm 13 protruding from the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode can be melted and removed due to the heat generated during the welding process.

[0087] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a method for stacking electrode assemblies according to a second example of this disclosure. (See reference) Figure 7 In the electrode assembly 10 according to the second example, the diaphragm 13 may be serrated, and the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 may be alternately inserted into the diaphragm 13. The negative electrode housing 30 may be configured to surround both sides of the negative electrode 12, and the negative electrode housing 30 and the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode may be connected by welding. In this case, a portion of the diaphragm 13, which is formed in a serrated shape and surrounds the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode, may be melted and removed due to the heat generated during the welding process. That is, even when the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode is covered by the diaphragm 13, a portion of the diaphragm 13 is removed due to the high temperature, and the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode and the negative electrode housing 30 may be connected to each other.

[0088] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the positive electrode housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (See reference) Figure 8 The positive electrode housing 20 may include a positive electrode cover 21, a positive electrode connecting member 22, and a positive electrode insulating member 23.

[0089] The positive electrode cover 21 may include a positive electrode cap 211 and a positive electrode terminal 212. The positive electrode cap 211 may form part of the exterior of the secondary battery 1. The positive electrode terminal 212 may be part of the positive electrode cap 211. The positive electrode terminal 212 may be a specific area through which electrical energy is supplied from the positive electrode cap 211. Figure 8 In this configuration, the positive electrode cover 211 is configured to cover the lower portion of the electrode assembly 10, and the positive electrode terminal 212 protrudes downward or upward from the positive electrode cover 211. The opposite side of the protruding positive electrode terminal 212 may have a recessed shape.

[0090] The positive electrode connecting member 22 can be electrically connected to the positive electrode 11 and can also be connected to the positive electrode terminal 212. The positive electrode 11 and the positive electrode terminal 212 are electrically connected and can be maintained by the positive electrode connecting member 22.

[0091] The positive electrode insulating member 23 can insulate the positive electrode connecting member 22. Except for the positive electrode terminal 212, electrical connection between the positive electrode cover 211 and the positive electrode connecting member 22 can be prevented by the positive electrode insulating member 23. Furthermore, electrical connection between the positive electrode connecting member 22 and the negative electrode 12 can be prevented by the positive electrode insulating member 23.

[0092] The positive electrode connection component 22 may include a positive electrode connection cover plate 221, a positive electrode connection protrusion 222, and a positive electrode connection plate 223.

[0093] The positive electrode insulating member 23 can be attached to the positive electrode connecting cover 221, wherein the positive electrode connecting cover 221 faces the positive electrode cover 211. The positive electrode cover 211 may have a larger dimension than the positive electrode connecting cover 221.

[0094] A positive electrode connection protrusion 222 can be formed on the positive electrode connection cover plate 221 and connected to the positive electrode terminal 212. Specifically, the positive electrode connection protrusion 222 can be formed to protrude from the positive electrode connection cover plate 221 and be inserted into the recessed space of the positive electrode terminal 212 to contact the positive electrode terminal 212. The positive electrode connection protrusion 222 can be integrally formed with the positive electrode connection cover plate 221 or attached to the positive electrode connection cover plate 221. When the positive electrode connection protrusion 222 is integrally formed with the positive electrode connection cover plate 221, a recessed space can be formed on the opposite side of the protruding area of ​​the positive electrode connection protrusion 222.

[0095] A positive electrode connecting plate 223 may extend from the positive electrode connecting cover plate 221 and may be electrically connected to the positive electrode 11. In some embodiments, the positive electrode connecting plate 223 may be integrally formed with the positive electrode connecting cover plate 221, and in other embodiments, the positive electrode connecting plate 223 may be coupled to the positive electrode connecting cover plate 221. The positive electrode connecting plates 223 may be a pair of positive electrode connecting plates 223 facing each other. Stacked positive electrodes 11 may be disposed between the pair of positive electrode connecting plates 223. The positive electrode connecting plate 223 may contact the uncoated portion 113 of the stacked positive electrodes. Soldering may be used to maintain the connection between the positive electrode connecting plate 223 and the uncoated portion 113 of the positive electrodes.

[0096] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the positive electrode insulating member 23 may include a first positive electrode insulating portion 231, a second positive electrode insulating portion 232, and a third positive electrode insulating portion 233. The first positive electrode insulating portion 231 may be attached to the upper surface of the positive electrode connecting cover plate 221. In particular, the first positive electrode insulating portion 231 may cover the entire upper surface of the positive electrode connecting cover plate 221 and may have dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the electrode assembly 10. The first positive electrode insulating portion 231 may prevent direct contact between the positive electrode connecting cover plate 221 and the electrode assembly 10.

[0097] The second positive electrode insulating part 232 can be attached to the lower surface of the positive electrode connecting cover plate 221. The second positive electrode insulating part 232 can cover all or part of the lower surface of the positive electrode connecting cover plate 221. The second positive electrode insulating part 232 can prevent direct contact between the positive electrode connecting cover plate 221 and the positive electrode cover 211.

[0098] The third positive electrode insulating portion 233 can be attached to the outer periphery of the positive electrode connecting protrusion 222. When the positive electrode connecting protrusion 222 is inserted into the positive electrode terminal 212, the lower surface of the positive electrode connecting protrusion 222 can be connected to the positive electrode terminal 212. However, the third positive electrode insulating portion 233 can prevent direct contact between the positive electrode connecting protrusion 222 and the positive electrode cover 211.

[0099] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the negative electrode housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (See reference) Figure 9 The negative electrode housing 30 may include a negative electrode cover 31, a negative electrode connecting member 32, and a negative electrode insulating member 33.

[0100] The negative electrode cover 31 may include a negative electrode cap 311 and a negative electrode terminal 312. The negative electrode cap 311 may form part of the exterior of the secondary battery 1. The negative electrode terminal 312 may be part of the negative electrode cap 311. In particular, the negative electrode terminal 312 may be a specific area from which electrical energy can be supplied from the negative electrode cap 311. Figure 9In this configuration, the negative electrode cover 311 can be configured to cover the upper portion of the electrode assembly 10, and the negative electrode terminal 312 can protrude downwards or upwards from the negative electrode cover 311. The opposite side of the negative electrode terminal 312 can have a recessed shape.

[0101] The negative electrode connecting member 32 can be electrically connected to the negative electrode 12 and can be connected to the negative electrode terminal 312. The state of electrical connection between the negative electrode 12 and the negative electrode terminal 312 can be maintained by the negative electrode connecting member 32.

[0102] The negative electrode insulating member 33 can insulate the negative electrode connecting member 32. Electrical connection between the negative electrode cover 311 and the negative electrode connecting member 32, except for the negative electrode terminal 312, can be prevented by the negative electrode insulating member 33. Electrical connection between the negative electrode connecting member 32 and the positive electrode 11 can be prevented by the negative electrode insulating member 33.

[0103] The negative electrode connection component 32 may include a negative electrode connection cover plate 321, a negative electrode connection protrusion 322, and a negative electrode connection plate 323.

[0104] The negative electrode insulating member 33 can be attached to the negative electrode connecting cover 321. The negative electrode connecting cover 321 can be configured to face the negative electrode cover 311. The negative electrode cover 311 can be larger in size than the negative electrode connecting cover 321.

[0105] A negative electrode connection protrusion 322 may be formed on the negative electrode connection cover plate 321 and connected to the negative electrode terminal 312. The negative electrode connection protrusion 322 may be formed in a shape that protrudes from the negative electrode connection cover plate 321 and is inserted into the recessed space of the negative electrode terminal 312 to contact the negative electrode terminal 312. In some embodiments, the negative electrode connection protrusion 322 may be integrally formed with the negative electrode connection cover plate 321, and in other embodiments, the negative electrode connection protrusion 322 may be coupled to the negative electrode connection cover plate 321. When the negative electrode connection protrusion 322 is integrally formed with the negative electrode connection cover plate 321, a recessed space may be formed on the opposite side of the protruding area of ​​the negative electrode connection protrusion 322.

[0106] A negative electrode connecting plate 323 may extend from the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321 and may be electrically connected to the negative electrode 12. In some embodiments, the negative electrode connecting plate 323 may be integrally formed with the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321, and in other embodiments, the negative electrode connecting plate 323 may be coupled to the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321. The negative electrode connecting plates 323 may be a pair of negative electrode connecting plates 323 facing each other. Stacked negative electrodes 12 may be disposed between the pair of negative electrode connecting plates 323. The negative electrode connecting plate 323 may contact the uncoated portion 123 of the stacked negative electrodes. The negative electrode connecting plate 323 may be coupled to the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrodes using soldering.

[0107] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the negative electrode insulating member 33 may include a first negative electrode insulating portion 331, a second negative electrode insulating portion 332 and a third negative electrode insulating portion 333.

[0108] The first negative electrode insulating portion 331 can be attached to the lower surface of the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321. The first negative electrode insulating portion 331 can cover the entire lower surface of the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321, or it can have dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the electrode assembly 10. The first negative electrode insulating portion 331 prevents direct contact between the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321 and the electrode assembly 10.

[0109] The second negative electrode insulating part 332 can be attached to the upper surface of the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321. The second negative electrode insulating part 332 can cover all or part of the upper surface of the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321. The second negative electrode insulating part 332 can prevent direct contact between the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321 and the negative electrode cover 311.

[0110] The third negative electrode insulating portion 333 can be attached to the outer periphery of the negative electrode connecting protrusion 322. When the negative electrode connecting protrusion 322 is inserted into the negative electrode terminal 312, the upper surface of the negative electrode connecting protrusion 332 can be connected to the negative electrode terminal 312. The third negative electrode insulating portion 333 can prevent direct contact between the negative electrode connecting protrusion 322 and the negative electrode cover 311.

[0111] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a negative electrode insulating member according to an example of this disclosure. Reference Figure 10The first negative electrode insulating portion 331 covers the entire lower surface of the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321 to prevent electrical contact between the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321 and the electrode assembly 10. The second negative electrode insulating portion 332 covers the entire upper surface of the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321 to prevent electrical contact between the negative electrode connecting cover plate 321 and the negative electrode cover 311. The third negative electrode insulating portion 333 covers the outer periphery of the negative electrode connecting protrusion 322 to prevent electrical contact between the negative electrode connecting protrusion 322 and the negative electrode cover 311. Since the negative electrode insulating member 33 can be attached in the same manner as the positive electrode insulating member 23 is attached to the positive electrode housing 20, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0112] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a negative electrode insulating member according to a second example of this disclosure. (See reference) Figure 11 The first negative electrode insulating portion 331 covers the entire lower surface of the negative electrode connecting cover 321 to prevent electrical contact between the negative electrode connecting cover 321 and the electrode assembly 10. The second negative electrode insulating portion 332 covers a portion of the upper surface of the negative electrode connecting cover 321 to prevent electrical contact between the negative electrode connecting cover 321 and the negative electrode cover 311. In some embodiments, a third negative electrode insulating portion 333 is provided. However, the third negative electrode insulating portion 333 can be omitted when the size and shape of the negative electrode connecting protrusion 322 prevents it from contacting the negative electrode cover 311. Because the negative electrode insulating member 33 can be attached in the same manner as the positive electrode insulating member 23 is attached to the positive electrode housing 20, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0113] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the negative electrode insulating member according to the third example of this disclosure. (Reference) Figure 12 The first negative electrode insulating portion 331 covers the entire lower surface of the negative electrode connecting cover 321 to prevent electrical contact between the negative electrode connecting cover 321 and the electrode assembly 10. The third negative electrode insulating portion 333 covers the outer periphery of the negative electrode connecting protrusion 322 to prevent electrical contact between the negative electrode connecting protrusion 322 and the negative electrode cover 311. A second negative electrode insulating portion 332 may be provided. However, when the negative electrode cover 311 and the negative electrode connecting cover 321 are spaced apart from each other, the second negative electrode insulating portion 332 may be omitted. Since the negative electrode insulating member 33 can be attached in the same manner as the positive electrode insulating member 23 is attached to the positive electrode housing 20, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0114] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (See also:) Figure 13 The method includes electrode production operation S10, electrode assembly operation S20, electrode connection operation S30, and electrode sealing operation S40.

[0115] In electrode production operation S10, a positive electrode 11 and a negative electrode 12 are produced, and a diaphragm 13, which is a component of electrode assembly 10, is also produced.

[0116] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The positive electrode 11 may include a positive electrode plate 111, a positive electrode coated portion 112, and a positive electrode uncoated portion 113. The positive electrode plate 111 may be a current collector formed from a thin metal foil, such as aluminum foil. The positive electrode coated portion 112 may be a region of the positive electrode plate 111 in which a positive electrode active material is coated. Specific examples of positive electrode active materials are transition metal oxides, such as LiCoO2, LiNiO2, LiMn2O4, etc. The positive electrode uncoated portion 113 may be a region of the positive electrode plate 111 in which no positive electrode active material is coated. The positive electrode uncoated portion 113 may be connected to the positive electrode housing 20.

[0117] Multiple positive electrode coated portions 112 may be spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the positive electrode plate 111 and coated with a positive electrode active material, and then cut in the width direction of the positive electrode plate 111 in a slitting process. The positive electrode coated portions 112 can thus be disposed on the positive electrode plate 111. Both sides of the positive electrode plate 111 in the width direction may be uncoated portions 113. The uncoated portions 113 may be configured to have length in a first direction, and the first direction may be... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The y-axis direction is shown in the figure. The positive electrode coated portion 112 may be disposed between the positive electrode uncoated portions 113, which are disposed separately in the x-axis direction corresponding to the width direction of the positive electrode 11.

[0118] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 4The negative electrode 12 may include a negative electrode plate 121, a negative electrode coated portion 122, and a negative electrode uncoated portion 123. The negative electrode plate 121 may be a current collector formed from a thin metal foil, such as copper foil. The negative electrode coated portion 122 may be an area of ​​the negative electrode plate 121 in which a negative electrode active material, such as graphite or carbon, is coated. The negative electrode uncoated portion 123 may be an area of ​​the negative electrode plate 121 in which no negative electrode active material is coated. The negative electrode uncoated portion 123 may be connected to the negative electrode housing 30. A plurality of negative electrode coated portions 122 may be spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the negative electrode plate 121 and coated with a negative electrode active material, and then cut in the width direction of the negative electrode plate 121 in a slitting process. Therefore, the negative electrode coated portions 122 may be disposed on the negative electrode plate 121. In this case, both sides of the negative electrode plate 121 in the width direction may be negative electrode uncoated portions 123. The negative electrode uncoated portion 123 may be configured to have a length in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, wherein the second direction is... Figure 2 and Figure 4 The x-axis direction is shown. The negative electrode coated portion 122 can be disposed between the negative electrode uncoated portions 123, which are disposed separately from each other in the y-axis direction corresponding to the width direction of the negative electrode 12.

[0119] In electrode assembly operation S20, the diaphragm 13 can be disposed between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12, and the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 are stacked alternately. However, the grooving process conventionally performed on the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 is omitted. (See reference...) Figure 5 In the electrode assembly 10, the negative electrode 12, the diaphragm 13, and the positive electrode 11 can be stacked sequentially and repeatedly. The diaphragm 13 can cover the negative electrode coating portion 122, and the edge of the diaphragm 13 can cover a portion of the uncoated negative electrode portion 123. The diaphragm 13 can cover the positive electrode coating portion 112, and the edge of the diaphragm 13 can cover a portion of the uncoated positive electrode portion 113. Therefore, contact between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 can be prevented by the diaphragm 13. The diaphragm 13 can have dimensions that cover both the negative electrode coating portion 122 and the positive electrode coating portion 112.

[0120] In electrode connection operation S30, the positive electrode housing 20 can be electrically connected to the positive electrode 11, and the negative electrode housing 30 can be electrically connected to the negative electrode 12.

[0121] The positive electrode housing 20 may cover a portion of the electrode assembly 10 and is electrically isolated from the negative electrode 12. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the positive electrode housing 20 may cover the lower portion of the electrode assembly 10. The negative electrode housing 30 may cover a portion of the electrode assembly 10 and may be electrically decoupled from the positive electrode 11. Figure 2As shown, the negative electrode housing 30 can cover the upper part of the electrode assembly 10.

[0122] The positive electrode housing 20 may include a positive electrode cover 21, a positive electrode connecting member 22, and a positive electrode insulating member 23. The positive electrode cover 21 may include a positive electrode cap 211 and a positive electrode terminal 212. The positive electrode cap 211 may form part of the exterior of the secondary battery 1. The positive electrode terminal 212 may be part of the positive electrode cap 211. The positive electrode connecting member 22 may be electrically connected to the positive electrode 11 and may be connected to the positive electrode terminal 212. The positive electrode insulating member 23 may insulate the positive electrode connecting member 22. Except for the positive electrode terminal 212, electrical connection between the positive electrode cap 211 and the positive electrode connecting member 22 may be prevented by the positive electrode insulating member 23. The positive electrode connecting member 22 may be soldered to the uncoated portion 113a of the positive electrode without requiring a conventional grooving process.

[0123] The negative electrode housing 30 may include a negative electrode cover 31, a negative electrode connecting member 32, and a negative electrode insulating member 33. The negative electrode cover 31 may include a negative electrode cap 311 and a negative electrode terminal 312. The negative electrode cap 311 may form part of the exterior of the secondary battery 1. The negative electrode terminal 312 may be part of the negative electrode cap 311. The negative electrode connecting member 32 may be electrically connected to the negative electrode 12 and may be connected to the negative electrode terminal 312. The negative electrode insulating member 33 may insulate the negative electrode connecting member 32. Except for the negative electrode terminal 312, the electrical connection between the negative electrode cap 311 and the negative electrode connecting member 32 may be prevented by the negative electrode insulating member 33. The negative electrode connecting member 32 may be soldered to the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode without requiring a conventional grooving process.

[0124] In electrode sealing operation S40, housing 40 can be connected to positive electrode housing 20 and negative electrode housing 30 to seal the internal space of positive electrode 11 and negative electrode 12 or positive electrode housing 20 and negative electrode housing 30. The cross-section of housing 40 can be quadrilateral. The lower edge of housing 40 can be welded to positive electrode housing 20. The upper edge of housing 40 can be welded to negative electrode housing 30. Electrode assembly 10 can be sealed by positive electrode housing 20, negative electrode housing 30, and housing 40.

[0125] In electrode assembly operation S20, when the diaphragm 13 is formed separately, the diaphragm 13 can be disposed between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12. (Reference) Figure 6 In the electrode assembly 10 according to the first example, a diaphragm 13 can be formed separately and disposed between the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12. The size of the diaphragm 13 can cover both the positive electrode coating portion 112 and the negative electrode coating portion 122. Figure 6In this configuration, the negative electrode housing 30 and the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode can be joined by welding. In this case, the portion of the diaphragm 13 that protrudes beyond the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode can be removed by melting due to the heat generated during the welding process.

[0126] In electrode assembly operation S20, the diaphragm 13 can be stacked in a serrated pattern, and the positive electrode 11 and negative electrode 12 can be alternately inserted into the diaphragm 13. (Reference) Figure 7 In the electrode assembly 10 according to the second example, the diaphragm 13 can be stacked in a serrated pattern, and the positive electrode 11 and the negative electrode 12 can be alternately inserted into the diaphragm 13. Figure 7 In this process, the negative electrode housing 30 can be welded to the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode. In this case, the diaphragm 13, which is formed in a serrated shape and surrounds the uncoated portion 123 of the negative electrode, can be melted and removed due to the heat generated during the welding process.

[0127] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the uncoated portion of the positive electrode being welded to the positive electrode housing according to an embodiment of this disclosure. (See reference) Figure 8 and Figure 14 In the positive electrode 11, the uncoated portion 113 (on which no grooving process is performed) can be welded to the positive electrode housing 20. The electrode assembly 10, in which the positive electrode 11, negative electrode 12, and diaphragm 13 are stacked, can be disposed within the positive electrode housing 20, which is housed in a fixture. The uncoated portions 113 provided in each positive electrode 11 can be configured as a pair of uncoated portions 113 spaced apart from each other in the x-axis direction. The positive electrode cover 21 can cover the lower portion of the electrode assembly 10, and the positive electrode connecting member 22 can contact the uncoated portion 113 (on which no grooving process is performed). The uncoated portion 113 and the positive electrode connecting member 22 can be joined by welding.

[0128] In other words, the positive electrode connection cover plate 221 can be configured to face the positive electrode cover 211, and the positive electrode connection protrusion 222 can be connected to the positive electrode terminal 212 formed in the positive electrode cover 211. Furthermore, the uncoated portion 113 of the positive electrode can be disposed between the positive electrode connection plates 223 that protrude upwards from the positive electrode connection cover plate 221 and face each other. The uncoated portions 113 of the positive electrode disposed on both sides of the positive electrode coated portion 112 can contact the positive electrode connection plates 223, and the connection between the uncoated portions 113 and the positive electrode connection plates 223 can be maintained by a laser welding process.

[0129] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram showing the uncoated portion of the negative electrode being welded to the negative electrode housing according to an embodiment of this disclosure. (See reference) Figure 9and Figure 15 In the negative electrode 12, the uncoated portion 123 (on which no grooving process is performed) can be welded to the negative electrode housing 30. With the electrode assembly 10 comprising stacked positive electrodes 11, negative electrodes 12, and a diaphragm 13, and supported by a fixture, each uncoated portion 123 in the negative electrode 12 can be configured as a pair of uncoated portions 123 spaced apart from each other in the y-axis direction. The negative electrode cover 31 can cover the upper portion of the electrode assembly 10, and the negative electrode connecting member 32 can contact the uncoated portion 123 (on which no grooving process is performed). The uncoated portion 123 and the negative electrode connecting member 32 can be joined by welding.

[0130] In other words, the negative electrode connection cover plate 321 can be configured to face the negative electrode cover 311, and the negative electrode connection protrusion 322 can be connected to the negative electrode terminal 312 formed in the negative electrode cover 311. Furthermore, the uncoated portions 123 of the negative electrode can be disposed between the negative electrode connection plates 323 that protrude downwards from the negative electrode connection cover plate 321 and face each other. The uncoated portions 123 of the negative electrode disposed on both sides of the negative electrode coated portion 122 contact the negative electrode connection plates 323, and the uncoated portions 123 of the negative electrode and the negative electrode connection plates 323 can be maintained in a connected state by a laser welding process.

[0131] In a secondary battery and method of manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the conventional grooving process performed on the uncoated positive electrode portion 113 provided in the positive electrode 11 and the uncoated negative electrode portion 123 provided in the negative electrode 12 is omitted. The uncoated positive electrode portion 113 is connected to the positive electrode housing 20, and the uncoated negative electrode portion 123 is connected to the negative electrode housing 30. Therefore, the efficiency of the manufacturing process is improved.

[0132] In a secondary battery and a method of manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a separator 13 may be disposed between a positive electrode 11 and a negative electrode 12, an insulated positive electrode housing 20 may be connected to the positive electrode 11 to achieve electrical transmission, and an insulated negative electrode housing 30 may be connected to the negative electrode 12 to achieve electrical transmission.

[0133] In a secondary battery and method of manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the additional grooving process for providing an uncoated portion of the positive electrode in the positive electrode and an uncoated portion of the negative electrode in the negative electrode is omitted. Instead, the uncoated portion of the positive electrode is connected to the positive electrode housing, and the uncoated portion of the negative electrode is connected to the negative electrode housing. Therefore, the efficiency of the manufacturing process is improved.

[0134] In a secondary battery and a method of manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a separator can be disposed between a positive electrode and a negative electrode, an insulated positive electrode shell can be connected to the positive electrode to realize electrical transmission, and an insulated negative electrode shell can be connected to the negative electrode to perform electrical transmission.

[0135] According to another aspect of this disclosure, it is possible to provide a battery module, a battery pack, and a vehicle including the battery module, which are manufactured using a secondary battery with an improved structure.

[0136] However, the effects that can be obtained through this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other technical effects not mentioned from the following description of this disclosure.

[0137] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, these embodiments are merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will be able to derive various modifications and other equivalent embodiments based on these embodiments.

Claims

1. A secondary battery, comprising: An electrode assembly in which a plurality of positive electrodes and a plurality of negative electrodes are stacked alternately, and at least one diaphragm is disposed between the plurality of positive electrodes and the plurality of negative electrodes; A positive electrode housing covers a portion of the electrode assembly and is electrically connected to the plurality of positive electrodes; A negative electrode housing that covers a portion of the electrode assembly and is electrically connected to the plurality of negative electrodes; as well as A housing is attached to the positive electrode housing and the negative electrode housing to seal the electrode assembly. The plurality of positive electrodes and the plurality of negative electrodes are respectively connected to the positive electrode housing and the negative electrode housing without undergoing a grooving process.

2. The secondary battery of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of positive electrodes comprises a positive electrode plate, and each of the positive electrode plates comprises: The positive electrode coating portion is coated with an active material; as well as The uncoated portion of the positive electrode is located at the edge of the positive electrode plate. The uncoated portion of the positive electrode is not coated with the active material and is connected to the positive electrode shell.

3. The secondary battery according to claim 2, wherein the uncoated portion of the positive electrode has a length in a first direction.

4. The secondary battery of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of negative electrodes comprises a negative electrode plate, and each of the negative electrode plates comprises: The negative electrode coating portion is coated with an active material; as well as The uncoated portion of the negative electrode is located at the edge of the negative electrode plate. The uncoated portion of the negative electrode is not coated with the active material and is connected to the negative electrode shell.

5. The secondary battery according to claim 4, wherein the uncoated portion of the negative electrode has a length in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

6. The secondary battery according to claim 5, wherein the length of the uncoated portion of the positive electrode is 150% to 200% of the length of the uncoated portion of the negative electrode.

7. The secondary battery according to claim 5, wherein the width of the negative electrode coating portion in the first direction is greater than the width of the positive electrode coating portion in the second direction, and the at least one separator prevents contact between the positive electrode coating portion and the negative electrode coating portion.

8. The secondary battery of claim 1, wherein the at least one separator is provided as a plurality of separators, each of the plurality of separators being provided between one of the plurality of positive electrodes and one of the plurality of negative electrodes.

9. The secondary battery of claim 1, wherein the at least one separator is stacked in a zigzag pattern, and each of the plurality of positive electrodes and the plurality of negative electrodes is provided into the at least one separator.

10. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein the positive electrode housing comprises: A positive electrode cover, in which positive electrode terminals are formed; A positive electrode connection member is electrically connected to the plurality of positive electrodes and electrically connected to the positive electrode terminals; as well as A positive electrode insulating component insulates the positive electrode connecting component.

11. The secondary battery according to claim 10, wherein the positive electrode connecting member comprises: A positive electrode connection cover plate, wherein the positive electrode insulating member is attached to the positive electrode connection cover plate; A positive electrode connection protrusion protrudes from the positive electrode connection cover and connects to the positive electrode terminal; as well as A positive electrode connecting plate extends from the positive electrode connecting cover and is electrically connected to the plurality of positive electrodes.

12. The secondary battery according to claim 11, wherein the positive electrode insulating member comprises two or more of the following: The first positive electrode insulating part is attached to the upper surface of the positive electrode connecting cover plate; The insulating part of the second positive electrode is attached to the lower surface of the positive electrode connecting cover plate; as well as The third positive electrode insulating part is attached to the outer periphery of the positive electrode connecting protrusion.

13. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein the negative electrode housing comprises: A negative electrode cover, in which negative electrode terminals are formed; A negative electrode connecting member is electrically connected to the plurality of negative electrodes and the negative electrode terminals; as well as A negative electrode insulating component insulates the negative electrode connecting component.

14. The secondary battery according to claim 13, wherein the negative electrode connecting member comprises: A negative electrode connection cover plate, wherein the negative electrode insulating component is attached to the negative electrode connection cover plate; A negative electrode connection protrusion protrudes from the negative electrode connection cover and connects to the negative electrode terminal; as well as A negative electrode connecting plate extends from the negative electrode connecting cover and is electrically connected to the plurality of negative electrodes.

15. The secondary battery according to claim 14, wherein the negative electrode insulating member comprises two or more of the following: The insulating part of the first negative electrode is attached to the upper surface of the negative electrode connecting cover plate; The insulating part of the second negative electrode is attached to the lower surface of the negative electrode connecting cover plate; as well as The insulating part of the third negative electrode is attached to the outer periphery of the negative electrode connecting protrusion.

16. A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, comprising: Electrode production operations, producing multiple positive electrodes and multiple negative electrodes; The electrode assembly operation involves alternately stacking the plurality of positive electrodes and the plurality of negative electrodes, and distributing at least one diaphragm between the plurality of positive electrodes and the plurality of negative electrodes, without performing a grooving process on the positive electrodes and the negative electrodes; The electrode connection operation electrically connects the positive electrode housing to the plurality of positive electrodes and the negative electrode housing to the plurality of negative electrodes; as well as The electrode sealing operation involves connecting the housing to the positive electrode housing and the negative electrode housing to seal the plurality of positive electrodes and the plurality of negative electrodes.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein in the electrode assembly operation, the at least one diaphragm is provided as a plurality of diaphragms, and each of the plurality of diaphragms is disposed between one of the plurality of positive electrodes and one of the plurality of negative electrodes.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein in the electrode assembly operation: The at least one diaphragm is stacked in a serrated shape, and Each of the plurality of positive electrodes and the plurality of negative electrodes is provided into the at least one diaphragm.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein in the electrode connection operation: A method is provided to weld the uncoated portion of the positive electrode in the plurality of positive electrodes to the positive electrode housing without performing a grooving process on the uncoated portion of the positive electrode, and The uncoated portion of one of the plurality of negative electrodes is provided to be welded to the negative electrode housing without performing a grooving process on the uncoated portion of the negative electrode.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein the cross-section of the housing has a quadrilateral shape, and in the electrode sealing operation, the housing is coupled to the positive electrode housing and the negative electrode housing to seal the internal space of the positive electrode housing and the negative electrode housing.

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