Battery pack case and battery pack including the same

Abstract

An exemplary embodiment provides a battery pack housing. The battery pack housing includes a first base plate including a first cooling channel extending in a first direction; a second base plate including a second cooling channel extending in the first direction; a third base plate including a third cooling channel extending in the first direction; and a fourth base plate including a fourth cooling channel extending in the first direction. The length of the first cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the first base plate in the first direction, the length of the second cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the second base plate in the first direction, the length of the third cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the third base plate in the first direction, and the length of the fourth cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the fourth base plate in the first direction. The first base plate and the third base plate are spaced apart, the second base plate is located between the first base plate and the third base plate, the second base plate and the fourth base plate are spaced apart, the first base plate is located between the second base plate and the fourth base plate, and the first cooling channel to the fourth cooling channel are connected in series.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery pack housing and a battery pack including the battery pack housing. This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0058647, filed on May 2, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. They are widely used as a power source for various types of wireless devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, the primary use of secondary batteries has shifted from mobile devices to mobility, as the manufacturing cost per unit capacity has significantly decreased due to increased energy density and economies of scale, and the driving range of battery-powered vehicles (BEVs) has increased to the same level as that of fuel cell vehicles.

[0003] The technological development trend for secondary batteries used in mobility services is towards increased energy density and safety. The safety of secondary batteries used in mobility services is directly related to passenger lives and is therefore extremely important. In the event of thermal runaway, the safety of secondary batteries can be achieved through mechanical robustness, reliable electrical insulation, and delaying thermal transfer. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues

[0005] This disclosure relates to providing a battery pack housing with improved reliability and mechanical stability, and a battery pack including the battery pack housing.

[0006] Technical solution

[0007] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a battery pack housing. The battery pack housing includes a first base plate including a first cooling channel extending in a first direction; a second base plate including a second cooling channel extending in the first direction; a third base plate including a third cooling channel extending in the first direction; and a fourth base plate including a fourth cooling channel extending in the first direction, wherein the length of the first cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the first base plate in the first direction, the length of the second cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the second base plate in the first direction, the length of the third cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the third base plate in the first direction, and the length of the fourth cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the fourth base plate in the first direction. The first base plate and the third base plate are spaced apart, the second base plate is located between the first base plate and the third base plate, the second base plate and the fourth base plate are spaced apart, the first base plate is located between the second base plate and the fourth base plate, and the first cooling channel to the fourth cooling channel are connected in series.

[0008] The first to fourth cooling channels can be connected in series.

[0009] The first base plate may include a first connecting channel connected to the first cooling channel and extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the second base plate may include a second connecting channel connected to the second cooling channel and extending in the second direction, and the first connecting channel may be connected to the second connecting channel.

[0010] The second base plate may include a third connecting channel that is connected to the second cooling channel, extends in the second direction, and is spaced apart from the second connecting channel in the first direction. The third base plate may include a fourth connecting channel that is connected to the third cooling channel and extends in the second direction, and the third connecting channel may be connected to the fourth connecting channel.

[0011] The second base plate may include a third connecting channel that is connected to the second cooling channel, extends in the second direction, and is spaced apart from the second connecting channel in the first direction. The third base plate may include a fourth connecting channel that is connected to the third cooling channel and extends in the second direction, and the third connecting channel may be connected to the fourth connecting channel.

[0012] The third base plate may include a first connecting hole that is connected to the third cooling channel and extends upward to the third party perpendicular to each of the first and second directions.

[0013] The fourth base plate may include a second connecting hole that connects to the fourth cooling channel and extends upward in a third direction.

[0014] The battery pack housing may also include a cooling cover that overlaps with the first and second connecting holes in a third-party orientation.

[0015] The cooling cover can be welded to the first to fourth base plates.

[0016] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a battery pack housing, comprising: a first base plate including a first cooling channel extending in a first direction; a second base plate including a second cooling channel extending in the first direction; a third base plate including a third cooling channel extending in the first direction; and a fourth base plate including a fourth cooling channel extending in the first direction, wherein the first base plate includes a first connecting channel and a second connecting channel connecting the first cooling channels to each other and extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the first connecting channel and the second connecting channel being spaced apart from each other in the first direction; the second base plate includes a third connecting channel and a fourth connecting channel connecting the second cooling channels to each other and extending in the second direction, the third connecting channel and the fourth connecting channel being spaced apart from each other in the first direction; the third base plate includes a fifth connecting channel and a sixth connecting channel connecting the third cooling channels to each other and extending in the second direction, the fifth connecting channel and the sixth connecting channel being spaced apart from each other in the first direction; the fourth base plate includes a seventh connecting channel and an eighth connecting channel connecting the fourth cooling channels to each other and extending in the second direction, the seventh connecting channel and the eighth connecting channel being spaced apart from each other in the first direction; the second connecting channel is connected to the third connecting channel; and the fifth connecting channel is connected to the fourth connecting channel.

[0017] The first base plate can be spaced apart from the third base plate, the second base plate is located between the first base plate and the third base plate, the second base plate can be spaced apart from the fourth base plate, the first base plate is located between the second base plate and the fourth base plate, and the first cooling channel to the fourth cooling channel can be connected in series.

[0018] The battery pack housing may also include a cooling cover welded to the first to fourth base plates.

[0019] The third base plate may include a first connecting hole connected to the third cooling channel and extending upward in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, and the fourth base plate may include a second connecting hole connected to the fourth cooling channel and extending upward in a third direction, and the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole may overlap with the cooling cover in a third direction.

[0020] Beneficial effects

[0021] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the flow rate of the cooling fluid in the base plate can be increased to improve the efficiency of cooling using the base plate.

[0022] The effects achievable by the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art to which the embodiments of this disclosure pertain will clearly derive and understand other effects not described herein based on the following description. In other words, those skilled in the art can derive unintended effects from the embodiments of this disclosure when implementing them. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a top view of the battery pack housing according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a bottom view of the battery pack casing according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line 1I-1I'.

[0026] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line 1II-1II'.

[0027] Figure 5 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line 1III-1III' in the diagram.

[0028] Figure 6 It shows the way Figure 1 The flow of cooling fluid through the cooling channels of the battery pack casing.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a top view of the battery pack housing according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a bottom view of the battery pack casing according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 9 It is along Figure 7 The cross-sectional view taken from line 7I-7I'.

[0032] Figure 10 It is along Figure 7 The cross-sectional view taken from line 7II-7II'.

[0033] Figure 11 It is along Figure 7 The cross-sectional view taken from line 7III-7III'.

[0034] Figure 12 This is a plan view of the battery pack according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0035] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before describing the embodiments of the present disclosure, the terms or expressions used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to terms or expressions as commonly understood or defined in common dictionaries, but should be understood based on the principle that the inventors of this application may appropriately define the terms or expressions to best interpret the present disclosure according to the meanings and concepts corresponding to the present disclosure.

[0036] Therefore, the configurations shown in the embodiments and accompanying drawings described herein are merely examples of this disclosure and do not reflect all the technical concepts of this disclosure. It should be understood that various equivalents and modifications have been made to replace this configuration as of the filing date of this application.

[0037] When it is determined that well-known configurations or functions related to the description of this disclosure obscure the subject matter of this disclosure due to unnecessary details, these configurations or functions will not be described in detail.

[0038] Because embodiments of this disclosure are provided to illustrate the disclosure more fully to those skilled in the art, the shapes, dimensions, etc., of the components shown in the drawings may be shown enlarged, omitted, or schematically for clarity. Therefore, it should not be construed that the dimensions or proportions of the components fully reflect their actual dimensions or proportions.

[0039] (First embodiment)

[0040] Figure 1 This is a top view of the battery pack housing 110 according to an embodiment.

[0041] Figure 2 This is a bottom view of the battery pack housing 110 according to an embodiment.

[0042] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line 1I-1I'.

[0043] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line 1II-1II'.

[0044] Figure 5 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line 1III-1III' in the diagram.

[0045] Figure 6 It shows the way Figure 1 The flow of cooling fluid in the cooling channels of the battery pack housing 110.

[0046] Reference Figures 1 to 6 The battery pack housing 110 can provide for mounting the battery cell assembly 120 (see...) Figure 12 The space, which will be described below, is the battery pack housing 110. The battery pack housing 110 may include an intermediate plate 111, a first bottom plate 112, a second bottom plate 113, a third bottom plate 114 and a fourth bottom plate 115, an inlet 116I, an outlet 116O, a cooling cover 117 and an end cover 118.

[0047] The intermediate plate 111 may include an intermediate beam 111CB. The intermediate beam 111CB may protrude from the upper surface 111U of the intermediate plate 111. The intermediate beam 111CB may extend in the X-axis direction.

[0048] The first base plate 112 may include an upper surface 112U and a lower surface 112L. The upper surface 112U and the lower surface 112L may be opposite to each other. The second base plate 113 may include an upper surface 113U and a lower surface 113L. The upper surface 113U and the lower surface 113L may be opposite to each other. The third base plate 114 may include an upper surface 114U and a lower surface 114L. The upper surface 114U and the lower surface 114L may be opposite to each other. The fourth base plate 115 may include an upper surface 115U and a lower surface 115L. The upper surface 115U and the lower surface 115L may be opposite to each other.

[0049] The upper surfaces 112U, 113U, 114U, and 115U can be substantially parallel to each other. The upper surfaces 112U, 113U, 114U, and 115U can be at the same level. The upper surfaces 112U, 113U, 114U, and 115U can be coplanar.

[0050] The lower surfaces 112L, 113L, 114L, and 115L can be substantially parallel to each other. The lower surfaces 112L, 113L, 114L, and 115L can be at the same level. The lower surfaces 112L, 113L, 114L, and 115L can be coplanar.

[0051] Two directions generally parallel to each of the upper surfaces 112U, 113U, 114U, and 115U are defined as the X-axis and Y-axis directions, and a direction generally perpendicular to each of the upper surfaces 112U, 113U, 114U, and 115U is defined as the Z-axis direction. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions may be generally perpendicular to each other. Unless otherwise stated, the definitions of directions will apply to the figures below.

[0052] Each of the intermediate plate 111 and the first base plate 112, second base plate 113, third base plate 114, and fourth base plate 115 can be provided by an extrusion process. The extrusion direction of each of the intermediate plate 111 and the first base plate 112, second base plate 113, third base plate 114, and fourth base plate 115 can be the X-axis direction. That is, the YZ cross section of each of the intermediate plate 111 and the first base plate 112, second base plate 113, third base plate 114, and fourth base plate 115 can be constant depending on its position in the X-axis direction, except for deformation caused by subsequent machining. Here, the YZ cross section can be substantially parallel to the Y-axis and Z-axis directions and substantially perpendicular to the X-axis direction. The base plate 111 and the first side plate 112 and second side plate 113 can be arranged along the Y-axis direction. The third side plate 114 and fourth side plate 115 can also be provided by an extrusion process.

[0053] In the example of subsequent machining described above, the following can be set up: first connection channel CCH1, second connection channel CCH2, third connection channel CCH3, fourth connection channel CCH4, fifth connection channel CCH5, sixth connection channel CCH6, seventh connection channel CCH7, eighth connection channel CCH8, input connection hole VI, output connection hole VO, and first connection hole V1 and second connection hole V2.

[0054] The elements referred to above as channels and / or connecting holes can be empty spaces within the first base plate 112, second base plate 113, third base plate 114, and fourth base plate 115 for the flow of cooling fluid, or spaces between the first base plate 112, second base plate 113, third base plate 114, and fourth base plate 115 and the cooling cover 117. Therefore, the interconnection of channels and / or connecting holes should be understood as allowing fluid to flow therebetween. For example, because the first cooling channel 112CH and the first connecting channel CCH1 are connected, fluid can flow between the first connecting channel CCH1 and the first cooling channel 112CH.

[0055] Battery cell module 120 (see Figure 4 It can be on the upper surfaces 112U, 113U, 114U and 115U of the middle plate 111 and the first side plate 112, the second side plate 113, the third side plate 114 and the fourth side plate 115.

[0056] The intermediate plate 111, as well as the first base plate 112, the second base plate 113, the third base plate 114, and the fourth base plate 115, can be arranged in the Y-axis direction. The first base plate 112 and the fourth base plate 115 can be spaced apart from the second base plate 113 and the third base plate 114 in the Y-axis direction, with the intermediate plate 111 located between them.

[0057] The first base plate 112 can be inserted between the intermediate plate 111 and the fourth base plate 115. The first base plate 112 can contact each of the intermediate plate 111 and the fourth base plate 115. For example, the first base plate 112 can be bonded to each of the intermediate plate 111 and the fourth base plate 115 by friction stir welding. Therefore, welding surfaces can exist between the first base plate 112 and the intermediate plate 111, and between the first base plate 112 and the fourth base plate 115.

[0058] The second base plate 113 can be inserted between the intermediate plate 111 and the third base plate 114. The second base plate 113 can contact each of the intermediate plate 111 and the third base plate 114. For example, the second base plate 113 can be joined to each of the intermediate plate 111 and the third base plate 114 by friction stir welding. Therefore, welding surfaces can exist between the second base plate 113 and the intermediate plate 111, and between the second base plate 113 and the third base plate 114.

[0059] However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the intermediate plate 111 and the first side plate 112, the second side plate 113, the third side plate 114 and the fourth side plate 115 can be joined together by arc welding, laser welding, electron beam welding, friction welding, ultrasonic welding and the like.

[0060] The first base plate 112 may include first cooling channels 112CH. Each first cooling channel 112CH may extend in the X-axis direction. The first cooling channel 112CH may be provided with a connecting hole for cooling fluid to flow through. The first cooling channels 112CH may be arranged in the Y-axis direction. The first cooling channels 112CH may be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0061] The length of each first cooling channel 112CH in the X-axis direction can be substantially the same as the length of the first base plate 112 in the X-axis direction. Each first cooling channel 112CH can be spaced apart from the upper surface 112U and the lower surface 112L of the first base plate 112. Each first cooling channel 112CH can be inserted between the upper surface 112U and the lower surface 112L of the first base plate 112.

[0062] The second base plate 113 may include second cooling channels 113CH. Each second cooling channel 113CH may extend in the X-axis direction. The second cooling channel 113CH may be provided with a connecting hole for cooling fluid to flow through. The second cooling channels 113CH may be arranged in the Y-axis direction. The second cooling channels 113CH may be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0063] The length of each second cooling channel 113CH in the X-axis direction can be substantially the same as the length of the second base plate 113 in the X-axis direction. Each second cooling channel 113CH can be spaced apart from the upper surface 113U and the lower surface 113L of the second base plate 113. Each second cooling channel 113CH can be inserted between the upper surface 113U and the lower surface 113L of the second base plate 113.

[0064] The third base plate 114 may include third cooling channels 114CH. Each third cooling channel 114CH may extend in the X-axis direction. The third cooling channel 114CH may be provided with a connecting hole for cooling fluid to flow through. The third cooling channels 114CH may be arranged in the Y-axis direction. The third cooling channels 114CH may be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0065] The length of each third cooling channel 114CH in the X-axis direction can be approximately the same as the length of the third base plate 114 in the X-axis direction. Each third cooling channel 114CH can be spaced apart from the upper surface 114U and the lower surface 114L of the third base plate 114. Each third cooling channel 114CH can be inserted between the upper surface 114U and the lower surface 114L of the third base plate 114.

[0066] The fourth base plate 115 may include a fourth cooling channel 115CH. Each fourth cooling channel 115CH may extend in the X-axis direction. The fourth cooling channel 115CH may be provided with a connecting hole for cooling fluid to flow through. The fourth cooling channels 115CH may be arranged in the Y-axis direction. The fourth cooling channels 115CH may be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0067] The length of each fourth cooling channel 115CH in the X-axis direction can be approximately the same as the length of the fourth base plate 115 in the X-axis direction. Each fourth cooling channel 115CH can be spaced apart from the upper surface 115U and the lower surface 115L of the fourth base plate 115. Each fourth cooling channel 115CH can be inserted between the upper surface 115U and the lower surface 115L of the fourth base plate 115.

[0068] The first base plate 112 may include a first connecting channel CCH1 and a second connecting channel CCH2. The first connecting channel CCH1 may be spaced apart from the second connecting channel CCH2 in the X-axis direction. The first connecting channel CCH1 and the second connecting channel CCH2 may extend in the Y-axis direction. The first connecting channel CCH1 and the second connecting channel CCH2 may be connected to a first cooling channel 112CH. The first connecting channel CCH1 may be adjacent to a first end 112E1 in the X-axis direction of the first base plate 112. The second connecting channel CCH2 may be adjacent to a second end 112E2 in the X-axis direction of the first base plate 112.

[0069] The first base plate 112 may further include an input communication port VI. The input communication port VI may extend in the Z-axis direction. The input communication port VI may be spaced apart from the second connecting channel CCH2 in the X-axis direction. The input communication port VI may be connected to the first cooling channel 112CH and the first connecting channel CCH1. Therefore, cooling fluid supplied through inlet 116I can be introduced into the first cooling channel 112CH and the first connecting channel CCH1 through the input communication port VI.

[0070] The second base plate 113 may include a third connecting channel CCH3 and a fourth connecting channel CCH4. The third connecting channel CCH3 may be spaced apart from the fourth connecting channel CCH4 in the X-axis direction. The third connecting channel CCH3 and the fourth connecting channel CCH4 may extend in the Y-axis direction. The third connecting channel CCH3 and the fourth connecting channel CCH4 may be connected to the second cooling channel 113CH. The fourth connecting channel CCH4 may be adjacent to the first end 113E1 of the second base plate 113 in the X-axis direction. The third connecting channel CCH3 may be adjacent to the second end 113E2 of the second base plate 113 in the X-axis direction.

[0071] The third base plate 114 may include a fifth connecting channel CCH5 and a sixth connecting channel CCH6. The fifth connecting channel CCH5 may be spaced apart from the sixth connecting channel CCH6 in the X-axis direction. The fifth connecting channel CCH5 and the sixth connecting channel CCH6 may extend in the Y-axis direction. The fifth connecting channel CCH5 and the sixth connecting channel CCH6 may be connected to the third cooling channel 114CH. The fifth connecting channel CCH5 may be adjacent to a first end 114E1 in the X-axis direction of the third base plate 114. The sixth connecting channel CCH6 may be adjacent to a second end 114E2 in the X-axis direction of the third base plate 114.

[0072] The third base plate 114 may also include a first connecting hole V1. Each first connecting hole V1 may extend in the Z-axis direction. Each first connecting hole V1 may be connected to the third cooling channel 114CH and the sixth connecting channel CCH6. Each first connecting hole V1 may be spaced apart from the fifth connecting channel CCH5 in the X-axis direction.

[0073] The fourth base plate 115 may include a seventh connecting channel CCH7 and an eighth connecting channel CCH8. The seventh connecting channel CCH7 may be spaced apart from the eighth connecting channel CCH8 in the X-axis direction. The seventh connecting channel CCH7 and the eighth connecting channel CCH8 may extend in the Y-axis direction. The seventh connecting channel CCH7 and the eighth connecting channel CCH8 may be connected to the fourth cooling channel 115CH. The seventh connecting channel CCH7 may be adjacent to a first end 115E1 in the X-axis direction of the fourth base plate 115. The eighth connecting channel CCH8 may be adjacent to a second end 115E2 in the X-axis direction of the fourth base plate 115.

[0074] The fourth base plate 115 may also include second connecting holes V2. Each second connecting hole V2 may extend in the Z-axis direction. Each second connecting hole V2 may connect to the fourth cooling channel 115CH and the seventh connecting channel CCH7. Each second connecting hole V2 may be spaced apart from the eighth connecting channel CCH8 in the X-axis direction.

[0075] The fourth base plate 115 may also include an output communication port VO. The output communication port VO may extend in the Z-axis direction. The output communication port VO may be spaced apart from the second communication port V2 in the X-axis direction. The output communication port VO may be spaced apart from the seventh connecting channel CCH7 in the X-axis direction. The output communication port VO may be connected to the fourth cooling channel 115CH and the eighth connecting channel CCH8. Therefore, the cooling fluid flowing through the fourth cooling channel 115CH and converging in the eighth connecting channel CCH8 can be discharged through the output communication port VO and the outlet 116O.

[0076] Cooling fluid introduced through inlet 116I can be distributed to first cooling channel 112CH via first connecting channel CCH1. Therefore, the cooling fluid distributed to first cooling channel 112CH can move in the X-axis direction, as indicated by arrow F1 representing the first flow. Cooling fluid flowing along first cooling channel 112CH can converge in second connecting channel CCH2. Second connecting channel CCH2 can be connected to third connecting channel CCH3. Intermediate connecting channel CCHC of intermediate plate 111 can be inserted between second connecting channel CCH2 and third connecting channel CCH3, and second connecting channel CCH2 and third connecting channel CCH3 can be connected via intermediate connecting channel CCHC.

[0077] Cooling fluid flowing along the first cooling channel 112CH can be transferred to the second cooling channel 113CH via the second connecting channel CCH2 and the third connecting channel CCH3. Cooling fluid can be distributed to the second cooling channel 113CH via the third connecting channel CCH3. Therefore, the cooling fluid distributed to the second cooling channel 113CH can move in the X-axis direction, as indicated by arrow F2 representing the second flow. Cooling fluid flowing along the second cooling channel 113CH can converge in the fourth connecting channel CCH4. The fourth connecting channel CCH4 can be connected to the fifth connecting channel CCH5.

[0078] Cooling fluid flowing along the second cooling channel 113CH can be transferred to the third cooling channel 114CH via the fourth connecting channel CCH4 and the fifth connecting channel CCH5. Cooling fluid can be distributed to the third cooling channel 114CH via the fifth connecting channel CCH5. Therefore, the cooling fluid distributed to the third cooling channel 114CH can move in the X-axis direction, as indicated by arrow F3 representing the third flow. Cooling fluid flowing along the third cooling channel 114CH can converge in the sixth connecting channel CCH6. The sixth connecting channel CCH6 can be connected to the first connecting hole V1.

[0079] Cooling cap 116 may be located on the lower surfaces 112L, 113L, 114L, and 115L of the first base plate 112, second base plate 113, third base plate 114, and fourth base plate 115. Cooling cap 116 may be adjacent to the second ends 112E2, 113E2, 114E2, and 115E2 of the first base plate 112, second base plate 113, third base plate 114, and fourth base plate 115. Cooling cap 116 may overlap with the first connecting hole V1 of the third base plate 114 and the second connecting hole V2 of the fourth base plate 115 in the Z-axis direction. Cooling fluid introduced through the first connecting hole V1 into the bridging channel JCH, which serves as the space between the cooling cap 116 and the lower surfaces 112L, 113L, 114L, and 115L, may be transferred through the second connecting hole V2 to the seventh connecting channel CCH7 and the fourth cooling channel 115CH.

[0080] Cooling cap 116 can be welded to the lower surfaces 112L, 113L, 114L, and 115L. Cooling cap 116 can be bonded to the lower surfaces 112L, 113L, 114L, and 115L by, for example, friction stir welding, thus forming multiple weld patterns 116W. The multiple weld patterns 116W can be arranged in a zigzag pattern. The zigzag arrangement of the weld patterns 116W can prevent obstruction factors such as turbulence of the cooling fluid in the bridging channel JCH.

[0081] Cooling fluid can be distributed to the fourth cooling channel 115CH via the seventh connecting channel CCH7. Therefore, the cooling fluid distributed to the fourth cooling channel 115CH can move in the X-axis direction, as indicated by arrow F4 representing the fourth flow. The cooling fluid flowing along the fourth cooling channel 115CH can converge in the eighth connecting channel CCH8. The eighth connecting channel CCH8 can be connected to the output communication port VO.

[0082] End cap 118 can contact the first ends 112E1, 113E1, 114E1 and 115E1 and the second ends 112E2, 113E2, 114E2 and 115E2 of the first base plate 112, the second base plate 113, the third base plate 114 and the fourth base plate 115. End cap 118 can be welded to the first ends 112E1, 113E1, 114E1 and 115E1 and the second ends 112E2, 113E2, 114E2 and 115E2 of the first base plate 112, the second base plate 113, the third base plate 114 and the fourth base plate 115, and can close the ends of the first cooling channel 112CH, the second cooling channel 113CH, the third cooling channel 114CH and the fourth cooling channel 115CH in the X-axis direction. Therefore, leakage of cooling fluid flowing through the first cooling channel 112CH, the second cooling channel 113CH, the third cooling channel 114CH, and the fourth cooling channel 115CH can be prevented.

[0083] Due to the configuration and arrangement of the first base plate 112, the second base plate 113, the third base plate 114, the fourth base plate 115, and the cooling cover 117, a cooling path can be provided that flows sequentially through the first base plate 112, the second base plate 113, the third base plate 114, and the fourth base plate 115. Therefore, the cooling fluid supplied to the inlet 116I can be distributed to the cooling channel in one base plate, and the cooling channels of two or more base plates are not connected in parallel, thereby preventing a decrease in the flow rate of the cooling fluid and improving the cooling performance.

[0084] (Second Embodiment)

[0085] Figure 7 This is a top view of the battery pack housing 110' according to an embodiment.

[0086] Figure 8 This is a bottom view of the battery pack housing 110' according to an embodiment.

[0087] Figure 9 It is along Figure 7 The cross-sectional view taken from line 1I-1I'.

[0088] Figure 10 It is along Figure 7 The cross-sectional view taken from line 1II-1II'.

[0089] Figure 11 It is along Figure 7 The cross-sectional view taken from line 1III-1III'.

[0090] Reference Figures 7 to 11 The battery pack housing 110' can provide for mounting the battery cell assembly 120 (see Figure 12 The space, which will be described below, is the battery pack housing 110'. The battery pack housing 110' may include a first base plate 112, a second base plate 113, a third base plate 114 and a fourth base plate 115, an inlet 116I, an outlet 116O, a cooling cover 117' and an end cover 118.

[0091] First base plate 112, second base plate 113, third base plate 114, fourth base plate 115, inlet 116I, outlet 116O, and end cap 118 are referenced above. Figures 1 to 6 The descriptions are largely the same, so repeated descriptions are omitted here.

[0092] and Figure 1 Unlike the battery pack housing 110, the battery pack housing 110' may not include the intermediate plate 111. The length of the cooling cover 117' in the Y-axis direction may be less than Figure 2 The length of the cooling cover 117 in the Y-axis direction. Besides the length of the cooling cover 117' in the Y-axis direction, the cooling cover 117' and... Figure 2 The cooling cover 117 is largely the same. The second connecting channel CCH2 of the first base plate 112 can be directly connected to the third connecting channel CCH3' of the second base plate 113.

[0093] (Third embodiment)

[0094] Figure 12 This is a plan view of the battery pack 100 according to an embodiment.

[0095] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 12 The battery pack 100 may include a battery pack housing 110, side walls 119W1, 119W2, 119W3 and 119W4, multiple battery cell assemblies 120 and a crossbeam 130.

[0096] Battery pack housing 110 and above reference Figures 1 to 6 The descriptions are largely the same. Multiple battery cell assemblies 120 can be mounted on the first base plate 112, second base plate 113, third base plate 114, and fourth base plate 115 of the battery pack housing 110. The intermediate plate 111 and the side plates 112, 113, 114, and 115 can support the multiple battery cell assemblies 120.

[0097] Sidewalls 119W1, 119W2, 119W3, and 119W4 can be attached to the sides of the first base plate 112, the second base plate 113, the third base plate 114, and the fourth base plate 115, or to the upper surfaces 112U, 113U, 114U, and 115U of the first base plate 112, the second base plate 113, the third base plate 114, and the fourth base plate 115. Sidewalls 119W1, 119W2, 119W3, and 119W4 can be welded to the first base plate 112, the second base plate 113, the third base plate 114, and the fourth base plate 115. Sidewalls 119W1, 119W2, 119W3, and 119W4 can horizontally surround multiple battery cell assemblies 120.

[0098] For example, the battery pack 100 can be a module-less battery pack, and each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 may not include a module frame. As another example, the battery pack 100 can be modular, and each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 may include a module frame.

[0099] Each of the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 may include multiple groups connected in series with each other. Each of the multiple groups may include one or more battery cells connected in parallel. The number of groups connected in series and the number of battery cells connected in parallel can be determined based on the voltage and current to be output from each of the multiple battery cell assemblies 120.

[0100] Multiple battery cells are the basic units of a lithium-ion battery (i.e., a secondary battery). Each of the multiple battery cells includes an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a casing. Each of the multiple battery cells can be a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, or a pouch battery cell. The electrode assembly of a cylindrical battery cell is housed in a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of a prismatic battery cell is housed in a prismatic metal can. The electrode assembly of a pouch battery cell is housed in a pouch casing comprising an aluminum laminate.

[0101] An electrode assembly may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator between the positive and negative electrodes. The electrode assembly may be a wound electrode assembly or a stacked electrode assembly. A wound electrode assembly may include a structure in which a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator located between the positive and negative electrodes are wound together. A stacked electrode assembly may include multiple positive electrodes and multiple negative electrodes stacked sequentially, and multiple separators inserted between them.

[0102] Multiple battery cell modules 120 can be arranged in the X-axis and Y-axis directions. Figure 12In this configuration, three battery cell modules 120 are arranged along the X-axis, and two are arranged along the Y-axis. Therefore, the array of multiple battery cell modules 120 can be a 2×2 array. Based on the above description, those skilled in the art will be able to readily deduce that multiple battery cell modules 120 are arranged in an M×N array (where M and N are each integers greater than 2).

[0103] The intermediate beam 111CB can separate multiple battery cell modules 120 in the Y-axis direction. The intermediate beam 111CB can be inserted between multiple battery cell modules 120 in the Y-axis direction. The crossbeam 130 can isolate multiple battery cell modules 120 in the X-axis direction. The crossbeam 130 can be inserted between multiple battery cell modules 120 in the X-axis direction. The crossbeam 130 can be integrated into the battery cell module 120.

[0104] Figure 12 The arrangement of the intermediate beam 111CB and the plurality of battery cell modules 120 shown is a non-limiting example and should not be construed as limiting the technical concept of this disclosure in any sense. Based on the above description, those skilled in the art will readily derive battery packs including various numbers and arrangements of intermediate beams, crossbeams, and battery cell modules.

[0105] The battery pack 100 may further include an venting device. The venting device may be configured to delay heat propagation by venting hot gas from the interior of the battery pack 100 to the exterior when at least one of the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 is in a thermal runaway state.

[0106] Here, the thermal runaway state of multiple battery cell modules 120 is a state in which the temperature change of multiple battery cell modules 120 accelerates the temperature change, that is, runaway positive feedback. The temperature of the multiple battery cell modules 120 in the thermal runaway state rises rapidly, and a large amount of high-pressure gas and combustion debris are emitted.

[0107] The battery pack 100 may further include electronic components. These electronic components may be mounted within the battery pack housing 110. They may be inserted, for example, between the crossbeam 130 and the side wall 119W3. The electronic components may include the electronic devices required to drive the battery pack 100.

[0108] For example, the electronic components may include a battery management system (BMS). The BMS may be configured to monitor, equalize, and control the battery pack 100. Monitoring the battery pack 100 may include measuring the voltage and current of a subset of nodes in a plurality of individual cell assemblies 120 and measuring the temperature at designated locations within the battery pack 100. The battery pack 100 may include measuring devices for measuring the voltage, current, and temperature as described above.

[0109] Balancing the battery pack 100 is an operation to reduce the deviation between the multiple battery cell modules 120. Control of 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 for each of the multiple battery cell modules 120.

[0110] Electronic components may also include: a cooling device, a power relay assembly (PRA), a safety plug, etc. The cooling device may include a cooling fan. The cooling fan circulates air within the battery pack 100 to prevent overheating of each of the multiple battery cell assemblies 120. The PRA can be configured to supply power from the high-voltage battery to an external load (e.g., the vehicle's electric motor) or to disconnect power. In the event of an abnormal voltage, such as a voltage surge, the PRA can disconnect power to the external load (e.g., the vehicle's electric motor) to protect the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 and the external load.

[0111] The battery pack 100 may further include a plurality of busbars configured to be electrically connected to a plurality of battery cell assemblies 120. The plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 may be connected in series via the plurality of busbars. Therefore, the battery pack 100 may be configured to output high voltage to an external load (e.g., a vehicle's electric motor).

[0112] The battery pack 100 may also include a cover attached to the sidewalls 119W1, 119W2, 119W3, and 119W4, as well as additional sidewalls. The cover may cover internal components of the battery pack 100, such as the battery cell assembly 120 and electronic components. The cover may be secured to the battery pack 100 by a mechanical coupling device, such as a fastening member.

[0113] Based on the description herein, those skilled in the art will be able to readily derive including Figure 7 The battery pack housing 110' without the battery pack including the battery pack housing 110.

[0114] The present disclosure has been described in more detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments, etc. However, the configurations shown in the drawings or described in the embodiments of this specification are merely examples of the present disclosure and do not reflect all the technical concepts of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications to these configurations may have existed prior to the filing date of this application.

Claims

1. A battery pack housing, comprising: The first base plate includes a first cooling channel extending in a first direction; The second base plate includes a second cooling channel extending in the first direction; The third base plate includes a third cooling channel extending in the first direction; as well as The fourth base plate includes a fourth cooling channel extending in the first direction. Wherein, the length of the first cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the first base plate in the first direction. The length of the second cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the second base plate in the first direction. The length of the third cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the third base plate in the first direction. The length of the fourth cooling channel in the first direction is the same as the length of the fourth base plate in the first direction. The first base plate is spaced apart from the third base plate, and the second base plate is located between the first base plate and the third base plate. The second base plate is spaced apart from the fourth base plate, and the first base plate is located between the second base plate and the fourth base plate. The first cooling channel to the fourth cooling channel are connected in series.

2. The battery pack housing according to claim 1, wherein, The first cooling channel to the fourth cooling channel are connected in series.

3. The battery pack housing according to claim 1, wherein, The first base plate includes a first connecting channel that is connected to the first cooling channel and extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second base plate includes a second connecting channel that is connected to the second cooling channel and extends in the second direction, and The first connection channel is connected to the second connection channel.

4. The battery pack housing according to claim 3, wherein, The second base plate includes a third connecting channel that is connected to the second cooling channel, extends in the second direction, and is spaced apart from the second connecting channel in the first direction. The third base plate includes a fourth connecting channel that is connected to the third cooling channel and extends in the second direction, and The third connection channel is connected to the fourth connection channel.

5. The battery pack housing according to claim 4, wherein, The second base plate includes a third connecting channel that is connected to the second cooling channel, extends in the second direction, and is spaced apart from the second connecting channel in the first direction. The third base plate includes a fourth connecting channel that is connected to the third cooling channel and extends in the second direction, and The third connection channel is connected to the fourth connection channel.

6. The battery pack housing according to claim 5, wherein, The third base plate includes a first connecting hole connected to the third cooling channel and extending upward in a third direction perpendicular to each of the first and second directions.

7. The battery pack housing according to claim 6, wherein, The fourth base plate includes a second connecting hole that is connected to the fourth cooling channel and extends upward from the third.

8. The battery pack housing according to claim 7, further comprising a cooling cover that overlaps with the first communicating hole and the second communicating hole in the third direction.

9. The battery pack housing according to claim 8, wherein, The cooling cover is welded to the first base plate to the fourth base plate.

10. A battery pack housing, comprising: The first base plate includes a first cooling channel extending in a first direction; The second base plate includes a second cooling channel extending in the first direction; The third base plate includes a third cooling channel extending in the first direction; as well as The fourth base plate includes a fourth cooling channel extending in the first direction. The first base plate includes a first connecting channel and a second connecting channel that connect the first cooling channels to each other and extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The first connection channel and the second connection channel are spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The second base plate includes a third connecting channel and a fourth connecting channel that connect the second cooling channels to each other and extend in the second direction. The third connection channel and the fourth connection channel are spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The third base plate includes a fifth connecting channel and a sixth connecting channel that connect the third cooling channels to each other and extend in the second direction. The fifth connection channel and the sixth connection channel are spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The fourth base plate includes a seventh connecting channel and an eighth connecting channel that connect the fourth cooling channels to each other and extend in the second direction. The seventh connection channel and the eighth connection channel are spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The second connection channel is connected to the third connection channel, and The fifth connection channel is connected to the fourth connection channel.

11. The battery pack housing according to claim 10, wherein, The first base plate is spaced apart from the third base plate, and the second base plate is located between the first base plate and the third base plate. The second base plate is spaced apart from the fourth base plate, and the first base plate is located between the second base plate and the fourth base plate. The first cooling channel to the fourth cooling channel are connected in series.

12. The battery pack housing according to claim 10, further comprising a cooling cover welded to the first base plate to the fourth base plate.

13. The battery pack housing according to claim 12, wherein, The third base plate includes a first connecting hole connected to the third cooling channel and extending upward in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, and The fourth base plate includes a second connecting hole that connects to the fourth cooling channel and extends upward from the third. The first connecting hole and the second connecting hole overlap with the cooling cover in the third direction.

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