Battery cell assembly and battery pack comprising the same

Abstract

According to an example embodiment, a battery cell assembly is provided. The battery cell assembly includes a first battery cell including a first positive terminal and a first negative terminal, a second battery cell including a second positive terminal and a second negative terminal, a first busbar welded to each of the first negative terminal of the first battery cell and the second positive terminal of the second battery cell, a first circuit interrupting device interposed between the first negative terminal and the second positive terminal, and a first insulating layer isolating the first circuit interrupting device from the first negative terminal, the second positive terminal, and the first busbar.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery cell assemblies and battery packs including such battery cell assemblies.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0113566, filed on August 23, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. They are widely used as an energy source for various wireless devices such as mobile phones, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. In recent years, the manufacturing cost per unit capacity of secondary batteries has significantly decreased due to improvements in energy density and economies of scale. As the driving range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has increased to levels comparable to fuel cell vehicles, the primary application of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility services.

[0004] With the current trend emphasizing secondary batteries for mobility applications, the main directions of secondary battery technology development are reducing production costs and enhancing safety. Secondary batteries account for the largest portion of BEV manufacturing costs. Therefore, the most critical factor in increasing the market share of BEVs relative to internal combustion engine vehicles is the production cost of secondary batteries. Reducing production costs can be achieved by saving materials, decreasing the number of production steps, and shortening production cycle time. The safety of secondary batteries is paramount, as it directly impacts the lives of mobility passengers. A key challenge in enhancing secondary battery safety is providing cooling solutions for the battery packs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] The technical problem solved by the technical concept of this disclosure is to provide a battery cell assembly with enhanced safety and a battery pack including the battery cell assembly.

[0007] Technical solution

[0008] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure for solving the aforementioned problems, a battery cell assembly is provided. The battery cell assembly includes: a first battery cell including a first positive terminal and a first negative terminal; a second battery cell including a second positive terminal and a second negative terminal; a first busbar soldered to the first negative terminal of the first battery cell and the second positive terminal of the second battery cell; a first circuit disconnection device inserted between the first negative terminal and the second positive terminal; and a first insulating layer isolating the first circuit disconnection device from the first negative terminal, the second positive terminal, and the first busbar.

[0009] The first circuit disconnection device comprises a material capable of thermal expansion.

[0010] The first circuit disconnection device includes a shape memory alloy.

[0011] The first battery cell and the second battery cell are arranged along a first direction, and the length of the first circuit disconnecting device in the first direction is longer than the length of the first circuit disconnecting device in the first direction at a first temperature above a critical temperature compared to a second temperature below a critical temperature.

[0012] The critical temperature ranges from 130°C to 190°C.

[0013] At a first temperature, the first circuit disconnection device is configured to disconnect the connection between the first busbar and the positive terminal and the connection between the first busbar and the first negative terminal.

[0014] The first insulating layer includes a first portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the first negative terminal, a second portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the second positive terminal, and a third portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the first busbar.

[0015] The first insulating layer has both insulating and adhesive properties.

[0016] The first insulating layer is thermosetting resin.

[0017] The first circuit disconnection device is embedded in the first insulating layer.

[0018] The battery cell assembly includes: a third battery cell including a third positive terminal and a third negative terminal; a second busbar soldered to the second negative terminal of the second battery cell and the third positive terminal of the third battery cell; a second circuit disconnect device inserted between the second negative terminal and the third positive terminal; and a second insulating layer separating the second circuit disconnect device from the second negative terminal, the third positive terminal and the second busbar.

[0019] According to an exemplary embodiment, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack includes: a housing including a substrate; and a plurality of battery cell assemblies on the housing, wherein each battery cell assembly includes: a first battery cell including a first positive terminal and a first negative terminal; a second battery cell including a second positive terminal and a second negative terminal; a first busbar soldered to the first negative terminal of the first battery cell and the second positive terminal of the second battery cell; a first circuit disconnection device inserted between the first negative terminal and the second positive terminal; and a first insulating layer isolating the first circuit disconnection device from the first negative terminal, the second positive terminal and the first busbar.

[0020] The first circuit disconnection device includes a shape memory alloy.

[0021] The first insulating layer includes a first portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the first negative terminal, a second portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the second positive terminal, and a third portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the first busbar.

[0022] The first insulating layer has both insulating and adhesive properties.

[0023] The first insulating layer is thermosetting resin.

[0024] The first circuit disconnection device is embedded in the first insulating layer.

[0025] Beneficial effects

[0026] A battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure may include a circuit disconnection device configured to disconnect the electrical connection between the busbar of the battery cell assembly and the electrode terminals of each battery cell at high temperatures. Therefore, in the event of a thermal runaway event in the battery cell assembly, the electrical connection between adjacent battery cells can be physically severed, and heat propagation can be delayed, thereby enhancing the safety of the battery cell assembly.

[0027] The effects obtainable from the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure pertain. In other words, those skilled in the art can also obtain unexpected effects from practicing the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a plan view of a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 Part of it.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the effect of a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a plan view of a battery cell assembly according to other exemplary embodiments.

[0032] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 Part of it.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a plan view of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted in their ordinary or dictionary sense, but rather based on the principle that the inventor can define the concepts of terms he / she deems most suitable for describing the disclosure, and in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

[0035] Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described herein and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are only the most preferred embodiments of this disclosure and do not exhaust the technical ideas of this disclosure. Furthermore, various equivalents and modifications that can replace these configurations may be present at the time of submission.

[0036] Furthermore, in describing this disclosure, detailed descriptions of relevant known configurations or features have been omitted where such detailed descriptions would obscure the gist of the disclosure.

[0037] Because the embodiments of this disclosure are provided to explain the disclosure more fully to those skilled in the art, the shapes and dimensions of the components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or shown schematically for clarity. Therefore, the dimensions or proportions of each component do not necessarily represent their actual dimensions or proportions.

[0038] (First Implementation)

[0039] Figure 1 This is a plan view of a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 Part of (POR).

[0041] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the effect of a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0042] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The battery cell assembly 120 includes: a plurality of battery cells 121_1, 121_2, 121_3, 121_4, 121_5, 121_6, 121_7, and 121_8 (hereinafter referred to as 121_1 to 121_8), and a plurality of busbars 123_1, 123_2, 123_3, 123_4, 123_5, 123_6, and 123_7 (hereinafter referred to as 123_1). (up to 123_7), multiple circuit disconnecting devices 125_1, 125_2, 125_3, 125_4, 125_5, 125_6, 125_7 (hereinafter referred to as 125_1 to 125_7), and multiple insulating layers 127_1, 127_2, 127_3, 127_4, 127_5, 127_6, 127_7 (hereinafter referred to as 127_1 to 127_7).

[0043] Each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 may be a lithium-ion battery. The plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 may be arranged along the X direction. The plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 may be electrically connected to each other. Each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, a housing CC, a positive terminal 121P, and a negative terminal 121N.

[0044] Each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 can be any of a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, and a pouch battery cell. The housing CC of a cylindrical battery cell can be a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery cell is embedded within the cylindrical metal can. The housing CC of a prismatic battery cell can be a prismatic metal can. The electrode assembly of the prismatic battery cell is embedded within the prismatic metal can. The housing CC of a pouch battery cell can be a pouch-shaped sheet. The electrode assembly of the pouch battery cell is embedded within a pouch-shaped box, which includes an aluminum laminate.

[0045] An electrode assembly may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a spacer inserted between the positive and negative electrodes. The electrode assembly may be of a wound type or a stacked type. A wound electrode assembly may include a wound structure comprising a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a spacer inserted between the positive and negative electrodes. A stacked electrode assembly may include a laminated structure comprising multiple positive and multiple negative electrodes stacked sequentially, and multiple spacers configured to electrically isolate the multiple positive and multiple negative electrodes.

[0046] The positive terminal 121P of each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 can be connected to the positive contact of each of the plurality of positive electrodes of the electrode assembly. The positive terminal 121P of each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 can be soldered to the positive contact of each of the plurality of positive electrodes of the electrode assembly.

[0047] The negative terminal 121N of each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 can be connected to the corresponding negative terminal of the plurality of negative terminals of the electrode assembly. The negative terminal 121N of each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 can be soldered to the negative terminal of each of the plurality of negative terminals of the electrode assembly.

[0048] The positive terminal 121P and the negative terminal 121N of each of the multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 can protrude from the battery box 121C along the Y direction. The Y direction can be substantially perpendicular to the X direction.

[0049] According to an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 may be a bidirectional battery, and the positive terminal 121P and negative terminal 121N of each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 may be located on opposite sides of the battery case 121C, but is not limited thereto. According to an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 may be a unidirectional battery, and the positive terminal 121P and negative terminal 121N of each of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 may be located on the same side of the battery case 121C.

[0050] Multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_8 can form multiple groups. Figure 1 Examples of each of the multiple groups comprising a single battery cell 121_1 to 121_8 are illustrated, but those skilled in the art can readily deduce examples of each of the multiple groups comprising two or more battery cells based on the description herein.

[0051] One or more battery cells in each of the multiple groups can be connected in parallel with each other. The multiple groups can also be connected in series with each other. The number of groups connected in series and the number of battery cells contained in the multiple groups can be determined based on the desired voltage and current output from the battery cell assembly 120.

[0052] Multiple busbars 123_1 to 123_7 can electrically connect to multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_8. Busbar 123_1 can connect battery cell 121_1 and battery cell 121_2. Busbar 123_2 can connect battery cell 121_2 and battery cell 121_3. Busbar 123_3 can connect battery cell 121_3 and battery cell 121_4. Busbar 123_4 can connect battery cell 121_4 and battery cell 121_5. Busbar 123_5 can connect battery cell 121_5 and battery cell 121_6. Busbar 123_6 can connect battery cell 121_6 and battery cell 121_7. Busbar 123_7 can connect battery cell 121_7 and battery cell 121_8.

[0053] Busbar 123_1 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_1 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_2, respectively. Busbar 123_1 can be soldered to the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_1 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_2, respectively.

[0054] Busbar 123_2 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_2 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_3, respectively. Busbar 123_2 can be soldered to the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_2 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_3, respectively.

[0055] Busbar 123_3 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_3 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_4, respectively. Busbar 123_3 can be soldered to the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_3 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_4, respectively.

[0056] Busbar 123_4 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_4 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_5, respectively. Busbar 123_4 can be soldered to the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_4 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_5, respectively.

[0057] Busbar 123_5 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_5 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_6, respectively. Busbar 123_5 can be soldered to the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_5 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_6, respectively.

[0058] Busbar 123_6 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_6 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_7, respectively. Busbar 123_6 can be soldered to the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_6 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_7, respectively.

[0059] Busbar 123_7 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_7 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_8, respectively. Busbar 123_7 can be soldered to the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_7 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_8, respectively.

[0060] The circuit disconnect device 125_1 can be inserted between the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_1 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_2. The circuit disconnect device 125_1 can overlap with the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_1 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_2 in the X direction. The circuit disconnect device 125_1 can overlap with the busbar 123_1 in the Y direction.

[0061] The circuit disconnect device 125_2 can be inserted between the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_2 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_3. The circuit disconnect device 125_2 can overlap with the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_2 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_3 in the X direction, respectively. The circuit disconnect device 125_2 can overlap with the busbar 123_2 in the Y direction.

[0062] The circuit disconnect device 125_3 can be inserted between the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_3 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_4. The circuit disconnect device 125_3 can overlap with the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_3 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_4 in the X direction, respectively. The circuit disconnect device 125_3 can overlap with the busbar 123_3 in the Y direction.

[0063] The circuit disconnect device 125_4 can be inserted between the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_4 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_5. The circuit disconnect device 125_4 can overlap with the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_4 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_5 in the X direction, respectively. The circuit disconnect device 125_4 can overlap with the busbar 123_4 in the Y direction.

[0064] The circuit disconnect device 125_5 can be inserted between the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_5 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_6. The circuit disconnect device 125_5 can overlap with the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_5 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_6 in the X direction, respectively. The circuit disconnect device 125_5 can overlap with the busbar 123_5 in the Y direction.

[0065] The circuit disconnect device 125_6 can be inserted between the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_6 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_7. The circuit disconnect device 125_6 can overlap with the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_6 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_7 in the X direction, respectively. The circuit disconnect device 125_6 can overlap with the busbar 123_6 in the Y direction.

[0066] The circuit disconnect device 125_7 can be inserted between the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_7 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_8. The circuit disconnect device 125_7 can overlap with the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_7 and the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_8 in the X direction, respectively. The circuit disconnect device 125_7 can overlap with the busbar 123_7 in the Y direction.

[0067] Each of the plurality of circuit disconnecting devices 125_1 to 125_7 may include a material capable of thermal expansion. Each of the plurality of circuit disconnecting devices 125_1 to 125_7 may include, but is not limited to, a shape memory alloy.

[0068] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The length of the circuit disconnecting device 125_1 in the X direction at temperatures above the critical temperature may differ from the length of the circuit disconnecting device 125_1 in the X direction at temperatures below the critical temperature. At temperatures above the critical temperature, the length of the circuit disconnecting device 125_1 in the X direction may be greater than the length of the circuit disconnecting device 125_1 in the X direction at temperatures below the critical temperature.

[0069] At temperatures above the critical temperature, the circuit disconnection device 125_1 can be configured to disconnect the connection between the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_1, the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_2, and the busbar 123_1. According to an exemplary embodiment, the circuit disconnection device 125_1 can physically disconnect the connection between battery cells 121_1 and 121_2 in the event of thermal runaway and exposure to external high temperatures, thereby enhancing the safety of the battery cell assembly 120. The operation of circuit disconnection devices 125_2, 125_3, 125_4, 125_5, 125_6, and 125_7 is substantially the same as that of circuit disconnection device 125_1, therefore redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0070] According to an exemplary embodiment, the critical temperature of each of the plurality of circuit disconnecting devices 125_1 to 125_7 can be in the range of approximately 130°C to approximately 190°C. According to an exemplary embodiment, the critical temperature of each of the plurality of circuit disconnecting devices 125_1 to 125_7 can be approximately 140°C or higher. According to an exemplary embodiment, the critical temperature of each of the plurality of circuit disconnecting devices 125_1 to 125_7 can be approximately 150°C or higher. According to an exemplary embodiment, the critical temperature of each of the plurality of circuit disconnecting devices 125_1 to 125_7 can be approximately 180°C or lower. According to an exemplary embodiment, the critical temperature of each of the plurality of circuit disconnecting devices 125_1 to 125_7 can be approximately 170°C or lower.

[0071] Each of the plurality of insulating layers 127_1 to 127_7 may include an insulating material. Each of the plurality of insulating layers 127_1 to 127_7 may include an adhesive material. According to an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of insulating layers 127_1 to 127_7 may include, for example, a thermosetting resin. According to an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of insulating layers 127_1 to 127_7 may include, for example, a tape.

[0072] Insulating layer 127_1 can contact circuit disconnect device 125_1. Insulating layer 127_1 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_1. Insulating layer 127_1 can contact the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_2. Insulating layer 127_1 can contact busbar 123_1.

[0073] The insulating layer 127_1 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnecting device 125_1 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_1. The insulating layer 127_1 can fix the circuit disconnecting device 125_1 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_1. The insulating layer 127_1 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnecting device 125_1 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_1.

[0074] The insulating layer 127_1 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnecting device 125_1 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_2. The insulating layer 127_1 can secure the circuit disconnecting device 125_1 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_2. The insulating layer 127_1 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnecting device 125_1 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_2.

[0075] The insulating layer 127_1 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_1 and the busbar 123_1. The insulating layer 127_1 can fix the circuit disconnect device 125_1 and the busbar 123_1. The insulating layer 127_1 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnect device 125_1 and the busbar 123_1.

[0076] Insulating layer 127_2 can contact circuit disconnect device 125_2. Insulating layer 127_2 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_2. Insulating layer 127_2 can contact the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_3. Insulating layer 127_2 can contact busbar 123_2.

[0077] The insulating layer 127_2 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnecting device 125_2 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_2. The insulating layer 127_2 can secure the circuit disconnecting device 125_2 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_2. The insulating layer 127_2 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnecting device 125_2 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_2.

[0078] The insulating layer 127_2 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnecting device 125_2 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_3. The insulating layer 127_2 can secure the circuit disconnecting device 125_2 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_3. The insulating layer 127_2 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnecting device 125_2 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_3.

[0079] The insulating layer 127_2 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_2 and the busbar 123_2. The insulating layer 127_2 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_2 and the busbar 123_2. The insulating layer 127_2 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnect device 125_2 and the busbar 123_2.

[0080] Insulating layer 127_3 can contact circuit disconnect device 125_3. Insulating layer 127_3 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_3. Insulating layer 127_3 can contact the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_4. Insulating layer 127_3 can contact busbar 123_3.

[0081] The insulating layer 127_3 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnecting device 125_3 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_3. The insulating layer 127_3 can fix the circuit disconnecting device 125_3 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_3. The insulating layer 127_3 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnecting device 125_3 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_3.

[0082] The insulating layer 127_3 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnecting device 125_3 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_4. The insulating layer 127_3 can secure the circuit disconnecting device 125_3 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_4. The insulating layer 127_3 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnecting device 125_3 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_4.

[0083] The insulating layer 127_3 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_3 and the busbar 123_3. The insulating layer 127_3 can fix the circuit disconnect device 125_3 and the busbar 123_3. The insulating layer 127_3 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnect device 125_3 and the busbar 123_3.

[0084] Insulating layer 127_4 can contact circuit disconnect device 125_4. Insulating layer 127_4 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_4. Insulating layer 127_4 can contact the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_5. Insulating layer 127_4 can contact busbar 123_4.

[0085] The insulating layer 127_4 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_4 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_4. The insulating layer 127_4 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_4 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_4. The insulating layer 127_4 can prevent a short circuit between the circuit disconnect device 125_4 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_4.

[0086] The insulating layer 127_4 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_4 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_5. The insulating layer 127_4 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_4 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_5. The insulating layer 127_4 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnect device 125_4 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_5.

[0087] The insulating layer 127_4 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_4 and the busbar 123_4. The insulating layer 127_4 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_4 and the busbar 123_4. The insulating layer 127_4 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnect device 125_4 and the busbar 123_4.

[0088] Insulating layer 127_5 can contact circuit disconnect device 125_5. Insulating layer 127_5 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_5. Insulating layer 127_5 can contact the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_6. Insulating layer 127_5 can contact busbar 123_5.

[0089] The insulating layer 127_5 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_5 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_5. The insulating layer 127_5 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_5 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_5. The insulating layer 127_5 can prevent a short circuit between the circuit disconnect device 125_5 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_5.

[0090] The insulating layer 127_5 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_5 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_6. The insulating layer 127_5 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_5 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_6. The insulating layer 127_5 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnect device 125_5 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_6.

[0091] The insulating layer 127_5 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_5 and the busbar 123_5. The insulating layer 127_5 can fix the circuit disconnect device 125_5 and the busbar 123_5. The insulating layer 127_5 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnect device 125_5 and the busbar 123_5.

[0092] Insulating layer 127_6 can contact circuit disconnect device 125_6. Insulating layer 127_6 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_6. Insulating layer 127_6 can contact the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_7. Insulating layer 127_6 can contact busbar 123_6.

[0093] The insulating layer 127_6 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_6 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_6. The insulating layer 127_6 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_6 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_6. The insulating layer 127_6 can prevent a short circuit between the circuit disconnect device 125_6 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_6.

[0094] The insulating layer 127_6 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_6 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_7. The insulating layer 127_6 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_6 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_7. The insulating layer 127_6 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnect device 125_6 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_7.

[0095] The insulating layer 127_6 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_6 and the busbar 123_6. The insulating layer 127_6 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_6 and the busbar 123_6. The insulating layer 127_6 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnect device 125_6 and the busbar 123_6.

[0096] Insulating layer 127_7 can contact circuit disconnect device 125_7. Insulating layer 127_7 can contact the negative terminal 121N of battery cell 121_7. Insulating layer 127_7 can contact the positive terminal 121P of battery cell 121_8. Insulating layer 127_7 can contact busbar 123_7.

[0097] The insulating layer 127_7 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_7 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_7. The insulating layer 127_7 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_7 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_7. The insulating layer 127_7 can prevent a short circuit between the circuit disconnect device 125_7 and the negative terminal 121N of the battery cell 121_7.

[0098] The insulating layer 127_7 may include a portion inserted between the circuit disconnect device 125_7 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_8. The insulating layer 127_7 can secure the circuit disconnect device 125_7 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_8. The insulating layer 127_7 can prevent short circuits between the circuit disconnect device 125_7 and the positive terminal 121P of the battery cell 121_8.

[0099] The insulating layer 127_7 may include a portion inserted between the circuit breaker 125_7 and the busbar 123_7. The insulating layer 127_7 can secure the circuit breaker 125_7 and the busbar 123_7. The insulating layer 127_7 can prevent short circuits between the circuit breaker 125_7 and the busbar 123_7.

[0100] (Second Implementation)

[0101] Figure 4 This is a plan view of a battery cell assembly 120' according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0102] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 Part of POR'.

[0103] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The battery cell assembly 120' includes multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_8, multiple busbars 123_1 to 123_7, multiple circuit disconnection devices 125_1 to 125_7, and multiple insulating layers 127_1', 127_2', 127_3', 127_4', 127_5', 127_6', and 127_7' (hereinafter referred to as 127_1' to 127_7').

[0104] Multiple battery cells 121_1~121_8, multiple busbars 123_1~123_7, and multiple circuit disconnection devices 125_1~125_7 and reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The multiple battery cells, multiple busbars, and multiple circuit disconnection devices described are essentially the same; therefore, redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0105] The plurality of insulating layers 127_1' to 127_7' may be insulating coatings applied to the plurality of circuit disconnecting devices 125_1 to 125_7. Therefore, the plurality of insulating layers 127_1' to 127_7' may surround a corresponding circuit disconnecting device among the plurality of circuit disconnecting devices 125_1 to 125_7.

[0106] Circuit disconnecting device 125_1 can be integrated within insulating layer 127_1'. Circuit disconnecting device 125_1 can be embedded within insulating layer 127_1'. Circuit disconnecting device 125_2 can be integrated within insulating layer 127_2'. Circuit disconnecting device 125_2 can be embedded within insulating layer 127_2'. Circuit disconnecting device 125_3 can be integrated within insulating layer 127_3'. Circuit disconnecting device 125_3 can be embedded within insulating layer 127_3'. Circuit disconnecting device 125_4 can be integrated within insulating layer 127_4'. Circuit disconnecting device 125_4 can be embedded within insulating layer 127_4'. Circuit disconnecting device 125_5 can be integrated within insulating layer 127_5'. Circuit disconnecting device 125_6 can be integrated within insulating layer 127_6'. The circuit disconnecting device 125_6 can be embedded within the insulating layer 127_6'. The circuit disconnecting device 125_7 can be integrated within the insulating layer 127_7'. The circuit disconnecting device 125_7 can be embedded within the insulating layer 127_7'.

[0107] (Third implementation method)

[0108] Figure 6 This is a plan view of a battery pack 100 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0109] Reference Figure 6 The battery pack 100 may include a housing 110 and a plurality of battery cell assemblies 120. The battery pack 100 is the final form of a battery system installed in a mobile device or the like.

[0110] The housing 110 can provide space for the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 to be installed. The housing 110 may include a base plate 111, side walls 112, 113, 114, 115 and a central beam 116.

[0111] The mounting surface of the substrate 111 (i.e., the surface facing the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120) can be substantially parallel to both the X and Y directions. The direction substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface of the substrate 111 is defined as the Z direction.

[0112] The substrate 111 and each sidewall 112, 113 can be provided by an extrusion process. The extrusion direction of the substrate 111 and each sidewall 112, 113 can be the X direction. That is, except for deformation due to additional tooling, the position of the YZ cross section of the substrate 111 and each sidewall 112, 113 relative to the X direction can be constant. Here, the YZ cross section can be substantially parallel to the Y and Z directions and substantially perpendicular to the X direction. The substrate 111 and sidewalls 112, 113 can be arranged along the Y direction. Sidewalls 114, 115 can also be provided by an extrusion process.

[0113] According to an exemplary embodiment, the substrate 111 and sidewalls 112, 113 can be joined by friction stir welding. The substrate 111 may include multiple unit plates joined by friction stir welding.

[0114] The center beam 116 can extend along the X direction. The center beam 116 can be inserted between the side walls 112 and 113. The center beam 116 can be contained in a center plate located at the center of multiple unit plates that are friction-stir welded together. Therefore, the center beam 116 can be formed together with the center plate during the extrusion process, and the center beam 116 can be a continuous element integral with the center plate.

[0115] The substrate 111 may include multiple cooling channels. These cooling channels provide pathways for the flow of a coolant such as water. The multiple cooling channels may be formed by an extrusion process. The multiple cooling channels may extend along the X direction. The multiple cooling channels may be spaced apart in the Y direction.

[0116] Multiple battery cell assemblies 120 can be positioned on a base plate 111 of the housing 110. The base plate 111 can support the multiple battery cell assemblies 120. Side walls 112, 113, 114, and 115 can surround the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 in the horizontal direction.

[0117] The battery pack 100 may also include leads. The leads can be connected to sidewalls 112, 113, 114, and 115. The leads can be mechanically secured to the sidewalls 112, 113, 114, and 115 using methods such as bolts. The leads can cover components housed inside the battery pack 100, such as battery cell assemblies 120 and electrical components. Gaskets can be inserted between the leads and the sidewalls 112, 113, 114, and 115. The gaskets provide a liquid seal for the battery pack 100.

[0118] The battery pack 100 may also include electrical components. These electrical components may include any electronic devices required to operate the battery pack. The electrical components may be located in an electrical component mounting area (EMR). The electrical component mounting area (EMR) may be the space between the sidewall 114 and the battery cell assembly 120.

[0119] Electrical components may include, for example, a battery management system (BMS). The BMS may be configured to perform monitoring, equalization, and control of the battery pack. Monitoring of the battery pack 100 may include measuring voltage and current at specific nodes within the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120, and measuring temperature at designated locations within the battery pack 100. The battery pack 100 may include instruments for measuring the aforementioned voltage, current, and temperature.

[0120] Balancing the battery pack 100 is an operation to reduce deviations between the multiple battery cell assemblies 120. Controlling the battery pack 100 includes preventing overcharging, over-discharging, and overcurrent. Through monitoring, balancing, and control, the battery pack 100 can operate under optimal conditions, thereby preventing a shortened lifespan of each of the multiple battery cell assemblies 120.

[0121] Electrical components may also include cooling devices, PRAs (Power Relay Assemblies), safety plugs, etc. Cooling devices may include cooling fans. Cooling fans can prevent each of the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 from overheating by circulating air within the battery pack 100. The PRA can be configured to supply power from the high-voltage battery to an external load (e.g., a vehicle motor) or to interrupt power. The PRA can protect the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 and the external load (e.g., the vehicle motor) by disconnecting the power supply to the external load (e.g., the vehicle motor) in the event of abnormal voltages such as voltage surges.

[0122] The battery pack 100 may also include multiple venting devices. These venting devices can be installed on any of the leads and sidewalls 112, 113, 114, and 115. In the event of a thermal runaway event in some of the battery cell assemblies 120, the multiple venting devices can provide a path for releasing hot gases from the interior of the battery pack 100 to the exterior. Therefore, thermal propagation can be delayed, and the stability of the battery pack 100 can be enhanced.

[0123] The present disclosure has been described in more detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. However, it should be understood that the configurations shown in the drawings or embodiments described herein are merely one embodiment of the present disclosure and do not represent all the technical ideas of the present disclosure. Furthermore, various equivalents and modifications that can replace these configurations may be present at the time of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A battery cell assembly, comprising: A first battery cell, the first battery cell including a first positive terminal and a first negative terminal; The second battery cell includes a second positive terminal and a second negative terminal. The first busbar is welded to the first negative terminal of the first battery cell and the second positive terminal of the second battery cell, respectively. A first circuit disconnection device is inserted between the first negative terminal and the second positive terminal; as well as A first insulating layer isolates the first circuit disconnect device from the first negative terminal, the second positive terminal, and the first busbar.

2. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first circuit disconnection device comprises a material capable of thermal expansion.

3. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first circuit disconnection device comprises a shape memory alloy.

4. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first battery cell and the second battery cell are arranged along a first direction, and The length of the first circuit disconnecting device in the first direction at a first temperature above the critical temperature is longer than the length of the first circuit disconnecting device in the first direction at a second temperature below the critical temperature.

5. The battery cell assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The critical temperature is in the range of 130°C to 190°C.

6. The battery cell assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The critical temperature is in the range of 130°C to 190°C.

7. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first insulating layer includes a first portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the first negative terminal, a second portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the second positive terminal, and a third portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the first busbar.

8. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first insulating layer has both insulating and adhesive properties.

9. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first insulating layer is a thermosetting resin.

10. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first circuit disconnection device is embedded in the first insulating layer.

11. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, comprising: The third battery unit includes a third positive terminal and a third negative terminal; The second busbar is welded to the second negative terminal of the second battery cell and the third positive terminal of the third battery cell, respectively; A second circuit disconnection device is inserted between the second negative terminal and the third positive terminal; as well as A second insulating layer isolates the second circuit disconnect device from the second negative terminal, the third positive terminal, and the second busbar.

12. A battery pack, comprising: A housing, the housing including a base plate; as well as Multiple battery cell assemblies, the battery cell assemblies being mounted on the housing, wherein Each of the battery cell assemblies includes: a first battery cell including a first positive terminal and a first negative terminal; a second battery cell including a second positive terminal and a second negative terminal; a first busbar soldered to the first negative terminal of the first battery cell and the second positive terminal of the second battery cell; a first circuit disconnection device inserted between the first negative terminal and the second positive terminal; and a first insulating layer isolating the first circuit disconnection device from the first negative terminal, the second positive terminal and the first busbar.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, The first circuit disconnection device comprises a shape memory alloy.

14. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, The first insulating layer includes a first portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the first negative terminal, a second portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the second positive terminal, and a third portion inserted between the first circuit disconnect device and the first busbar.

15. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, The first insulating layer has both insulating and adhesive properties.

16. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, The first insulating layer is a thermosetting resin.

17. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein, The first circuit disconnection device is embedded in the first insulating layer.

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