Secondary battery and method of manufacturing secondary battery

Abstract

This invention relates to secondary batteries and methods for manufacturing secondary batteries. One aspect describes a secondary battery. The secondary battery includes: a current collector assembly comprising a current collector holder formed of an insulating material, a first current collector connected to an upper portion of a first side of the current collector holder and having a first slit and a first connecting terminal formed thereon, and a second current collector connected to an upper portion of a second side of the current collector holder and having a second slit and a second connecting terminal formed thereon; a first electrode tab comprising a first foil tab group and a second foil tab group; and a cover assembly comprising a first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal electrically connected to the first current collector and the second current collector, respectively. The first foil tab group and the second foil tab group are respectively inserted into the first slit and connected to the inner surface of the first slit.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0010078, filed on January 23, 2025, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to secondary batteries and methods for manufacturing secondary batteries. Background Technology

[0004] In recent years, with the rapid increase in demand for portable electronic devices such as laptops, cameras and mobile phones, as well as the active development of electric vehicles, energy storage batteries, robots, satellites, etc., high-performance rechargeable and rechargeable batteries have been studied in depth.

[0005] In secondary batteries, lithium-ion batteries primarily use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. Furthermore, a lithium-ion secondary battery includes a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate, an electrode assembly, and an outer casing. Positive and negative electrode active materials are applied to the positive and negative electrode plates, respectively. In the electrode assembly, the positive and negative electrode plates are positioned with a separator disposed between them. The outer casing is sealed and houses the electrode assembly and the electrolyte.

[0006] Secondary batteries can be classified into can-type and pouch-type secondary batteries based on the shape of their casings. In can-type secondary batteries, the electrode assembly is embedded in a metal can, while in pouch-type secondary batteries, the electrode assembly is embedded in a pouch formed of aluminum laminates. Can-type secondary batteries can also be classified into cylindrical and prismatic secondary batteries based on the shape of their metal cans.

[0007] In the manufacture of secondary batteries, a process is performed in which multiple electrode contacts, which are connected to the electrode plates, are soldered to the current collector. The current collector with the soldered electrode contacts is then connected to the terminals of the cover assembly.

[0008] To connect multiple electrode contacts to the current collector, the electrode contacts are connected to either the lower or upper surface of the current collector. However, when the electrode contacts are connected to the lower surface of the current collector, the distance between the electrode assembly and the current collector increases, thereby reducing the energy density of the secondary battery. When the electrode contacts are connected to the upper surface of the current collector, the length of the electrode contacts increases, thereby increasing the resistance.

[0009] In addition, the positive and negative current collectors, each connected to the electrode contacts, are respectively connected to the cover assembly. However, when any of the current collectors is not aligned with the connection position on the cover assembly, connection to the terminals becomes difficult. Here, since the current collectors are soldered to the electrode contacts, it is difficult to adjust their position, resulting in reduced assemblability with the cover assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Technical issues

[0011] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a secondary battery and a method for manufacturing a secondary battery, wherein the current collector has an integrated structure that improves the assemblability with the cover assembly.

[0012] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a secondary battery and a method for manufacturing a secondary battery, wherein the length of the electrode contacts is reduced, thereby reducing the resistance to current flow.

[0013] Technical solution

[0014] A secondary battery according to one aspect of this disclosure may include: a plurality of first electrode contacts, each connected to a plurality of first electrodes, the plurality of first electrode contacts including a first foil contact group and a second foil contact group; a plurality of second electrode contacts, each connected to a plurality of second electrodes, the plurality of second electrode contacts including a third foil contact group and a fourth foil contact group; a current collector assembly, the current collector assembly including a current collector holder formed of an insulating material, the current collector holder having a first hole formed on a first side of the current collector holder and a second hole formed on a second side of the current collector holder, a first current collector connected to an upper portion of the first side of the current collector holder and having a plurality of first slits vertically connected to the first hole, the first current collector including a first connecting terminal; and a second current collector connected to an upper portion of the second side of the current collector holder and having a plurality of second slits vertically connected to the second hole, the second current collector including a second connecting terminal; and a cover assembly, the cover assembly including a first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal respectively electrically connected to the first current collector and the second current collector. The first foil patch group and the second foil patch group can be inserted into multiple first slits respectively and can be connected to the inner surface of multiple first slits.

[0015] Multiple first slits can be spaced apart from each other in the width direction.

[0016] Multiple first slits can be spaced apart by being at the same distance from the center of the first current collector in the width direction.

[0017] The first hole can be formed into multiple first holes.

[0018] The current collector holder may have a lower surface that is inclined toward the multiple first holes.

[0019] The edge where the lower surface of the current collector holder meets the inner surface of each of the plurality of first holes may be rounded.

[0020] Each of the plurality of first slits may include: an inclined slit segment connected to the first hole and formed to be inclined relative to the lower surface of the first current collector; and a vertical slit segment connected to the inclined slit segment and formed to be perpendicular to the lower surface of the first current collector.

[0021] The vertical slit sections can be vertically staggered relative to the first hole.

[0022] Multiple first slits can be formed in different columns.

[0023] A first cut may be formed in one side surface in the width direction of the first current collector.

[0024] The first cut can be connected to multiple first slits in the longitudinal direction.

[0025] The first foil patch group and the second foil patch group, which are respectively inserted into the multiple first slits, can be oriented in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the first current collector.

[0026] The first foil splice group and the second foil splice group can be set in different columns.

[0027] The cover assembly may also include a cover plate having a first terminal hole and a second terminal hole, wherein a first connecting terminal is inserted into the first terminal hole and a second connecting terminal is inserted into the second terminal hole.

[0028] The distance between the first connecting terminal and the second connecting terminal can be equal to the distance between the first terminal hole and the second terminal hole.

[0029] A method of manufacturing a secondary battery according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include: an insertion operation, inserting a first foil tab group and a second foil tab group into a plurality of first slits respectively; a cutting operation, cutting the first foil tab group and the second foil tab group protruding above a first current collector; a welding operation, welding the first foil tab group and the second foil tab group to the inner surfaces of the plurality of first slits; and an assembly operation, inserting a first connecting terminal into a first terminal hole and connecting the current collector assembly to a cover assembly.

[0030] The welding operation may include forming a weld line that spans the first slit in the width direction.

[0031] Beneficial effects

[0032] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the current collector can have an integrated structure, thereby improving the assemblability with the cover assembly.

[0033] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the length of the electrode contacts can be reduced, thereby reducing the resistance to current flow. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a secondary battery according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 2 It's a diagram. Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram showing the partially disassembled configuration of a secondary battery.

[0036] Figure 3 It is a 3D diagram illustrating the connection status of the electrode contacts.

[0037] Figure 4 It is an exploded 3D view illustrating the configuration of the current collector component.

[0038] Figure 5 The diagram shows a top view of the first current collector.

[0039] Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view showing the state before the electrode contacts are inserted.

[0040] Figure 7 It shows a cross-sectional view of the current collector component.

[0041] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view showing the electrode contacts in the insertion state.

[0042] Figure 9 It is a cross-sectional view showing the cut state of the electrode contacts.

[0043] Figure 10a and Figure 10b This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the insertion state of the electrode contacts of a secondary battery according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 11 The diagram shows... Figure 10a and Figure 10b Example of modifying the stream aggregation component.

[0045] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the current collector assembly of a secondary battery according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 13 It is a cross-sectional view showing the welding state of the electrode contacts.

[0047] Figure 14 This is an exploded perspective view illustrating the configuration of the current collector assembly of a secondary battery according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 15This is a perspective view of a current collector assembly for a secondary battery according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figures 16a to 16c This is a top view illustrating the process of inserting electrode contacts into the current collector assembly.

[0050] Figure 17 This is a block diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 18a and Figure 18b The diagram shows... Figure 17 Insertion operation.

[0052] Figure 19a and Figure 19b The diagram shows... Figure 17 The cutting operation.

[0053] Figure 20 The diagram shows... Figure 17 Welding operations.

[0054] Figure 21 The diagram includes Figure 1 A 3D view of the battery module of a secondary battery.

[0055] Figure 22 The diagram includes Figure 21 A 3D view of the battery module and battery pack. Detailed Implementation

[0056] Because this disclosure can be modified in various forms and can have various implementations, specific implementations will be shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, this is not intended to limit this disclosure to a particular mode of practice, and it should be understood that all variations, equivalents, and alternatives without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure are included in this disclosure.

[0057] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. In this disclosure, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the words “comprising,” “having,” etc., as used in this specification, are intended to describe the presence of said features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0058] In this specification, the term "vertical direction" refers to Figure 2 In the ±x direction, the term "width direction" refers to... Figure 2The ±y direction in the text, and the term "height direction" refers to... Figure 2 The ±z direction in the middle.

[0059] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that throughout the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. To avoid unnecessarily obscuring the spirit of the disclosure, details of well-known configurations and functions may be omitted. For the same reason, some elements in the accompanying drawings are enlarged, omitted, or depicted schematically.

[0060] The secondary battery according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0061] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a secondary battery according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It's a diagram. Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram showing the partially disassembled configuration of a secondary battery. Figure 3 It is a 3D diagram illustrating the connection status of the electrode contacts.

[0062] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The secondary battery 10 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes an electrode assembly 300 in which a separator 350 is arranged between a first electrode 310 and a second electrode 330, a current collector 500 electrically connected to the electrode assembly 300, a housing 100 for housing the electrode assembly 300, and a cover assembly 700 for sealing the housing 100.

[0063] The electrode assembly 300 can be configured such that a spacer 350 is arranged between alternately arranged first electrodes 310 and second electrodes 330. In other words, the electrode assembly 300 can be formed by alternately stacking the first electrode 310, spacer 350, second electrode 330, and spacer 350 in the listed order, wherein the spacer 350 is positioned between the first electrode 310 and the second electrode 330. Here, as electrodes with opposite polarities, the first electrode 310 and the second electrode 330 can be positive and negative electrodes, respectively, or conversely, the first electrode 310 and the second electrode 330 can be negative and positive electrodes, respectively.

[0064] The first electrode 310 and the second electrode 330 may include corresponding electrode active portions 311 and 331 and corresponding electrode tabs 313 and 333. The electrode active portions 311 and 331 are areas where active material is applied to a thin plate formed of metal foil, and the electrode tabs 313 and 333 are areas where no active material is applied.

[0065] The first electrode active portion 311 can be formed by applying an active material, such as a transition metal oxide, to a metal foil, such as an aluminum foil. The second electrode active portion 331 can be formed by applying an active material, such as graphite or carbon, to a metal foil, such as a copper or nickel foil.

[0066] The first electrode tab 313 may protrude from one side of the first electrode active portion 311. The second electrode tab 333 may protrude from one side of the second electrode active portion 331. Here, the first electrode tab 313 and the second electrode tab 333 may protrude parallel to each other toward the cover assembly 700. Alternatively, the first electrode tab 313 and the second electrode tab 333 may protrude in different directions.

[0067] The first electrode tab 313 and the second electrode tab 333 are formed by cutting metal foil to protrude from the metal foil, and thus can be integrally formed with the metal foil of the first electrode active portion 311 and the metal foil of the second electrode active portion 331, respectively.

[0068] The first electrode contact 313 and the second electrode contact 333 can have different polarities and can be spaced apart from each other by a certain distance.

[0069] Each of the first electrode contact 313 and the second electrode contact 333 can be formed by overlapping multiple thin films, and the thin films can be connected to each other by ultrasonic welding, laser welding, etc., to facilitate current flow.

[0070] The separator 350 is disposed between the first electrode 310 and the second electrode 330, and more specifically, between the active portion 311 of the first electrode and the active portion 331 of the second electrode, to prevent short circuits between the electrodes and allow ion movement. For example, the separator 350 may be made of various materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or composite films thereof.

[0071] The electrode assembly 300 may be wrapped with an insulating film or insulating tape and may be insulated from the housing 100. The insulating film or insulating tape may be made of a material that has excellent insulation properties even at high temperatures, such as polypropylene or polyimide.

[0072] In this embodiment, the electrode assembly 300 can be formed by winding the first electrode 310 and the second electrode 330 (winding type), or by overlapping the first electrode 310 and the second electrode 330 in parallel with each other (stacked type).

[0073] In this embodiment, one electrode assembly 300 can be housed in one housing 100. That is, each electrode assembly 300 can be housed in a corresponding housing 100. Therefore, each electrode assembly 300 is individually protected, thereby reducing the risk of short circuit with another electrode assembly 300 and reducing heat accumulation, thus preventing the risk of thermal runaway. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and multiple electrode assemblies 300 can be housed in one housing 100.

[0074] The current collector assembly 500 includes a current collector holder 550 formed of an insulating material, a first current collector 510 coupled to an upper portion of a first side of the current collector holder 550, and a second current collector 530 coupled to an upper portion of a second side of the current collector holder 550. The current collector assembly 500 is configured such that the individual current collectors 510 and 530 are connected and integrated through the current collector holder 550 and function as a single current collector component.

[0075] The current collector retainer 550 with insulating properties can connect individual current collectors 510 and 530 with different polarities, so that the individual current collectors 510 and 530 maintain a predefined interval, and can prevent short circuits between different electrodes 310 and 330 in the integrated current collector assembly 500.

[0076] A first current collector 510 is attached to the upper portion of a first side of a current collector holder 550 in the longitudinal direction (x-direction), and a second current collector 530 is attached to the upper portion of a second side of a current collector holder 550. Each of the current collectors 510 and 530 can be attached to the current collector holder 550 by means of adhesive, adhesive tape, or the like. Alternatively, each of the current collectors 510 and 530 can be integrally formed with the current collector holder 550 by insert injection molding.

[0077] The first current collector 510 and the second current collector 530 may be configured to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction (x direction) on the upper portion of the current collector holder 550. Each of the first current collector 510 and the second current collector 530 may be formed as a rectangle with a width (in the y direction) equal to or less than the width of the current collector holder 550.

[0078] The first current collector 510 and the second current collector 530, unlike the current collector holder 550 connected to their lower portions, can be formed of a conductive material. Therefore, the first current collector 510 can electrically connect the first electrode terminal 710 exposed outside the cover assembly 700 to the first electrode contact 313. The second current collector 530 can electrically connect the second electrode terminal 730 exposed outside the cover assembly 700 to the second electrode contact 333.

[0079] The first current collector 510 and the second current collector 530 are respectively provided with a first slit 511 and a second slit 531. The first slit 511 and the second slit 531 are respectively vertically connected to a first hole (551, see [reference]) formed in the current collector holder 550. Figure 4 ) and the second hole (553, see Figure 4 ).

[0080] The first electrode contact 313 is inserted into the first hole (551, see...). Figure 4 The second electrode contact 333 is inserted into the second hole (553, see 511) and the first slit 511. Figure 4 ) and the second slit 531.

[0081] A first electrode tab 313 inserted into the first slit 511 is connected to the inner surface of the first slit 511 in the width direction (y direction). Multiple first electrode tabs 313 may be provided. Some of the multiple first electrode tabs 313 may be connected to the inner surface of the first slit 511 in the width direction (y direction).

[0082] The second electrode tab 333 inserted into the second slit 531 is also connected to the inner surface of the second slit 531 in the width direction (y direction). The second electrode tab 333 can also be provided as a plurality of second electrode tabs 333. Some of the plurality of second electrode tabs 333 can be connected to the inner surface of the second slit 531 in the width direction (y direction).

[0083] Electrode contacts 313 and 333 can be welded to current collectors 510 and 530, respectively. Welding can include laser welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.

[0084] Welding can be performed directly on electrode tabs 313 and 333, wherein the upper portions of the electrode tabs are exposed through slits 511 and 531. Alternatively, welding can be performed after additional metal plates are placed on slits 511 and 531.

[0085] In some cases, insulating tape or film may cover the welded portions. Therefore, electrode contacts 313 and 333 welded to the inner surfaces of slits 511 and 531 can be insulated from the cover assembly 700. That is, as described later, electrode contacts 313 and 333 can be electrically connected to electrode terminals 710 and 730 via current collectors 510 and 530, and direct contact with the cover assembly 700 can be prevented. In this case, the insulating tape or film can be made of a material with excellent insulating properties even at high temperatures, such as polypropylene or polyimide.

[0086] When electrode contacts 313 and 333 are connected to current collectors 510 and 530, electrodes 310 and 330 can be electrically connected to current collectors 510 and 530, respectively.

[0087] The first current collector 510 and the second current collector 530 can be electrically connected to the first electrode terminal 710 and the second electrode terminal 730, respectively. When the current collectors 510 and 530 are connected to the electrode terminals 710 and 730, respectively, the electrodes 310 and 330 can be electrically connected to the electrode terminals 710 and 730, respectively.

[0088] Current collectors 510 and 530 can be connected to electrode terminals 710 and 730 respectively via connection terminals 513 and 533.

[0089] The first connecting terminal 513 can be connected to the upper surface of the first current collector 510. The first connecting terminal 513 can be positioned approximately at the center of the first current collector 510, but this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first connecting terminal 513 can be positioned biased to one side in the width direction (y-direction) of the first current collector 510. The first connecting terminal 513 can be integrally formed with the first current collector 510 in a columnar shape. The first connecting terminal 513 can be inserted into the first terminal hole 711 to electrically connect the first current collector 510 and the first electrode terminal 710. When the first current collector 510 and the first electrode terminal 710 are electrically connected, the first electrode 310 and the first electrode terminal 710 can also be electrically connected.

[0090] The second connecting terminal 533 can be connected to the upper surface of the second current collector 530. The second connecting terminal 533 can be positioned approximately at the center of the second current collector 530, but this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the second connecting terminal 533 can be positioned biased to one side in the width direction (y-direction) of the second current collector 530. The second connecting terminal 533 can be integrally formed with the second current collector 530 in a columnar shape. The second connecting terminal 533 can be inserted into the second terminal hole 731 to electrically connect the second current collector 530 and the second electrode terminal 730. When the second current collector 530 and the second electrode terminal 730 are electrically connected, the second electrode 330 and the second electrode terminal 730 can also be electrically connected.

[0091] The distance D1 between the first connecting terminal 513 and the second connecting terminal 533 can be equal to the distance D2 between the first terminal hole 711 and the second terminal hole 731. Since the connecting terminals 513 and 533 are integrated with the current collector assembly 500 and are positionally constrained, when the first connecting terminal 513 is aligned with the first terminal hole 711, the second connecting terminal 533 can also be aligned with the second terminal hole 731.

[0092] Therefore, current collectors 510 and 530 can be connected to the cover assembly 700 by aligning only one of the connecting terminals with the corresponding terminal hole, without needing to adjust the respective positions of connecting terminals 513 and 533 separately. Thus, connecting terminals 513 and 533 can be aligned with their corresponding terminal holes 711 and 731 simultaneously. Therefore, the assembly efficiency of current collectors 510 and 530 with the cover assembly 700 can be improved.

[0093] Further details about the structure of the collector component 500 will be described later.

[0094] The cover assembly 700 can seal the opening of the housing 100 that houses the electrode assembly 300, and may include a cover plate 750, a first electrode terminal 710, and a second electrode terminal 730.

[0095] The cover plate 750 may have a plate shape that covers the opening of the housing 100. The cover plate 750 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the opening of the housing 100. The cover plate 750 may be formed of the same material as the housing 100. The cover plate 750 may be fixed to the housing 100 by laser welding.

[0096] The cover plate 750 may have an electrolyte injection hole 770 for injecting electrolyte, a first terminal hole 711 into which a first connecting terminal 513 is inserted, a second terminal hole 731 into which a second connecting terminal 533 is inserted, and a vent hole 740 that opens when the internal pressure of the housing 100 exceeds a predetermined pressure value. However, the location of the vent hole 740 is not limited to this, and the vent hole 740 may be formed on one side of the housing 100, such as on the side surface or bottom surface of the housing 100.

[0097] The first electrode terminal 710 and the second electrode terminal 730 may be formed to protrude from the cover plate 750. The first electrode terminal 710 may be electrically connected to the first electrode 310 via the first current collector 510, and the second electrode terminal 730 may be electrically connected to the second electrode 330 via the second current collector 530.

[0098] The first electrode terminal 710 and the second electrode terminal 730 may each have a circular or rectangular plate shape. The first electrode terminal 710 and the second electrode terminal 730 may be connected to a busbar, etc.

[0099] A first insulator (not shown) may be disposed between the first electrode terminal 710 and the cover plate 750 to electrically insulate the first electrode terminal 710 from the cover plate 750. Additionally, a second insulator (not shown) may be disposed between the second electrode terminal 730 and the cover plate 750 to electrically insulate the second electrode terminal 730 from the cover plate 750.

[0100] The housing 100 can form the external shape of the secondary battery 10, and the interior of the housing 100 can form a space capable of accommodating the electrode assembly 300, wherein an opening is formed on one side of the housing 100. The housing 100 can have a cuboid shape and can be made of a rigid material capable of protecting the electrode assembly 300 housed therein. For example, the housing 100 can be made of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel.

[0101] The electrolyte can be housed together with the electrode assembly 300 in the housing 100. The electrolyte can be formed from lithium salts such as LiPF6 or LiBF4 dissolved in an organic solvent such as ethylene carbonate (EC), propylene carbonate (PC), diethyl carbonate (DEC), ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC), or dimethyl carbonate (DMC). The electrolyte can be in a liquid, solid, or gel state.

[0102] Battery module M can be configured to include a plurality of secondary batteries 10 according to this embodiment (see Figure 21 Multiple secondary batteries 10 can be interconnected via busbar B, etc., to form a battery module M. Alternatively, the battery pack P can be configured to include multiple battery modules M (see [reference needed]). Figure 22 The battery pack P can be configured by placing multiple battery modules M inside the upper housing VC and lower housing LC that constitute the battery pack housing C. Alternatively, the battery pack P can be provided in vehicles that transport loads or people, or vehicles that operate while moving. Such vehicles can include bicycles, heavy equipment, agricultural or fishing equipment, automobiles, buses, or aircraft. Here, the automobile can be an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The automobile can include a four-wheeled vehicle or a two-wheeled vehicle. The vehicle can operate by receiving electricity from the battery pack P.

[0103] Figure 4 It is an exploded 3D view illustrating the configuration of the current collector component. Figure 5 The diagram shows a top view of the first current collector. Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view showing the state before the electrode contacts are inserted. Figure 7 It shows a cross-sectional view of the current collector component. Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view showing the electrode contacts in the insertion state. Figure 9 It is a cross-sectional view showing the cut state of the electrode contacts.

[0104] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the current collector assembly 500 includes a current collector holder 550 formed of insulating material, a first current collector 510 connected to an upper portion of a first side of the current collector holder 550, and a second current collector 530 connected to an upper portion of a second side of the current collector holder 550.

[0105] The current collector holder 550 can be formed to extend in the longitudinal direction (x direction). The current collector holder 550 can be manufactured into a rectangular shape in which the length (along the x direction) is greater than the width (along the y direction). The width (along the y direction) of the current collector holder 550 can be equal to or less than the width (along the y direction) of the electrode assembly 300. The length (along the x direction) of the current collector holder 550 can also be equal to or less than the length (along the x direction) of the electrode assembly 300.

[0106] The current collector retainer 550 can be formed from an insulating material, such as plastic or silicone rubber. The current collector retainer 550 can be formed by machining the insulating material or by injection molding using a mold.

[0107] A first hole 551 configured to allow insertion of a first electrode contact 313 may be formed on a first side of the current collector holder 550 along the longitudinal direction (x direction). A second hole 553 configured to allow insertion of a second electrode contact 333 may be formed on a second side of the current collector holder 550 along the longitudinal direction (x direction). The length L2 of the first hole 551 and the length L2 of the second hole 553 may be equal to or slightly greater than the length L of the first electrode contact 313 and the length L of the second electrode contact 333, respectively.

[0108] The first current collector 510 can be connected to the upper portion of the first side of the current collector holder 550 in the longitudinal direction (x direction), and the second current collector 530 can be connected to the upper portion of the second side of the current collector holder 550.

[0109] As described above, the first slits (511x and 511y) can be formed in the first current collector 510, and the second slits (531x and 531y) can be formed in the second current collector 530.

[0110] Multiple first slits 511x and 511y and multiple second slits 531x and 531y are formed. The multiple first slits 511x and 511y are vertically connected to a first hole 551. Multiple first electrode contacts 313 are inserted into the first hole 551 and the multiple first slits 511x and 511y. The multiple second slits 531x and 531y are also vertically connected to a second hole 553. Multiple second electrode contacts 333 are inserted into the second hole 553 and the multiple second slits 531x and 531y. Therefore, the length L1 of the first slits 511x and 511y and the length L1 of the second slits 531x and 531y can be equal to or slightly greater than the length L2 of the first hole 551 and the length L2 of the second hole 553, respectively.

[0111] The plurality of first slits 511x and 511y can be spaced apart from each other in the width direction (y direction). More specifically, the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y can be spaced apart by being at the same distance from the center X of the first current collector 510 in the width direction.

[0112] Similarly, the plurality of second slits 531x and 531y can be spaced apart from each other in the width direction (y direction) and can be spaced apart by the same distance from the center of the second current collector 530 in the width direction.

[0113] Therefore, the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y can be formed to be spaced apart by the same distance from opposite ends of the first current collector 510 in the width direction (y direction), and the plurality of second slits 531x and 531y can also be formed to be spaced apart by the same distance from opposite ends of the second current collector 530 in the width direction (y direction). Therefore, electrode contacts 313 and 333 can be inserted into the corresponding slits 511x, 511y, 531x and 531y without being biased toward one side in the width direction (y direction).

[0114] In this embodiment, the structures of the first electrode contact 313 and the first current collector 510 can be similarly applied to the second electrode contact 333 and the second current collector 530. Hereinafter, the structures of the first electrode contact 313, the current collector holder 550, and the first current collector 510 will be described as examples, and redundant descriptions of the second electrode contact 333 and the second current collector 530 will be omitted.

[0115] Reference Figure 6 The first electrode tab 313 can be provided as a plurality of first electrode tabs 313. The plurality of first electrode tabs 313 can be gathered toward the center in the width direction (y direction) and successively inserted into the first hole 551 and the first slits 511x and 511y.

[0116] More specifically, the plurality of first electrode tabs 313 may include a first foil tab group 313a and a second foil tab group 313b. The first electrode tabs 313 may be inserted into either of the first slits 511x and 511y (e.g., 511x), and the second foil tab group 313b may be inserted into the remaining one of the first slits 511x and 511y (e.g., 511y).

[0117] like Figure 7 As shown, the inner surfaces 511xa and 511ya of the first slits 511x and 511y can each have a cross-section perpendicular to the lower surface of the first current collector 510. In addition, the inner surfaces 551a of the first hole 551 that face each other can also each have a cross-section perpendicular to the upper surface of the current collector holder 550.

[0118] The inner surfaces 511xa and 511ya of the first slits 511x and 511y can be continuously connected to the inner surface 551a of the first hole 551. For example, each of the inner surfaces 511xa and 511ya of the first slits 511x and 511y can be connected in a straight line to the corresponding inner surface 551a of the first hole 551 without forming a step between them.

[0119] Therefore, due to the first foil patch assembly (313a, see [link]) inserted into the first hole 551 Figure 6 ) and the second foil patch assembly (313b, see Figure 6 Both can pass through the first slits 511x and 511y, and the first foil assembly (313a, see...) Figure 6 ) and the second foil patch assembly (313b, see Figure 6 The process of inserting into multiple first slits 511x and 511y can be facilitated.

[0120] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The inserted first foil patch group 313a and the inserted second foil patch group 313b may have upper ends E protruding above the first current collector 510. The protruding upper ends E may be cut at a height similar to the height of the upper surface of the first current collector 510. Therefore, the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b may have a height similar to the height of the upper surface of the first current collector 510. In other words, after cutting, the height of the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b may be equal to, slightly higher than, or slightly lower than the height of the upper surface of the first current collector 510.

[0121] The cut ends of the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b can be perpendicular to the upper surface of the first current collector 510. That is, they are inserted into the first slit (511x, see...). Figure 7 The first foil patch group 313a can be oriented in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the first current collector 510. Inserted into the first slit (511y, see...) Figure 7 The second foil patch group 313b can be oriented in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the first current collector 510.

[0122] In this state, the first foil patch assembly 313a can be connected to the inner surface 511xa of the first slit, and the second foil patch assembly 313b can be connected to the inner surface 511ya of the first slit. The first foil patch assembly 313a and the second foil patch assembly 313b can be soldered to the inner surfaces 511xa and 511ya of the first slit.

[0123] More specifically, referring to the first foil patch assembly 313a, a portion of the inner surface 511xa of the first foil patch assembly 313a adjacent to the first slit can be welded to the inner surface 511xa of the first slit. The remaining portion of the first foil patch assembly 313a can be welded to the portion of the first foil patch assembly 313a that is welded to the inner surface 511xa.

[0124] The second foil patch assembly 313b can also be welded to the inner surface 511ya of the first slit in the same manner. Therefore, the first foil patch assembly 313a and the second foil patch assembly 313b can be connected to the inner surfaces 511xa and 511ya of the first slit, respectively, and can be electrically connected to the first current collector 510.

[0125] Here, welding energy can be applied from above the first current collector 510 toward the first current collector 510 (see...). Figure 13 Welding energy can be applied across the first slits 511x and 511y in the width direction (y-direction) to form a weld line in the width direction (y-direction) (see...). Figure 20 ).

[0126] The weld line may be parallel to the width direction (y direction), but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The weld line, which crosses the first slits 511x and 511y at various angles along the width direction (y direction), may be formed in patterns such as inclined shapes or V-shapes.

[0127] In this embodiment, the first electrode contact 313 can pass through the current collector 500 in a vertical direction. Therefore, the first electrode contact 313 can be manufactured with a reduced length (H, see below). Figure 4 This reduces resistance and heat generation caused by current flow, thus effectively alleviating heat generation problems.

[0128] The secondary battery according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0129] Figure 10a and Figure 10b This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the insertion state of the electrode contacts of a secondary battery according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0130] The secondary battery according to the second embodiment of this disclosure has the same structure as the first embodiment described above, except for the current collector holder 550, and therefore the redundant description of the repeating configuration is omitted.

[0131] Reference Figure 10a The current collector retainer 550 can be formed having a plurality of first holes 551x and 551y. Therefore, the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y can be vertically connected to the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y, respectively.

[0132] More specifically, the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y can be formed to be spaced apart from each other in the width direction (y direction), and the spacing between the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y can be the same as the spacing between the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y. Therefore, any one of the first slits 511x and 511y (e.g., 511x) can be positioned above a corresponding one of the first holes 551x and 551y (e.g., 551x), and the remaining one of the first slits 511x and 511y (e.g., 511y) can be positioned above a corresponding one of the first holes 551x and 551y (e.g., 551y).

[0133] The lower surface of the current collector holder 550 may be formed to be inclined toward the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y.

[0134] More specifically, the lower surface of the current collector holder 550 may be inclined from opposite ends of the current collector holder 550 in the width direction (y direction) toward the adjacent first holes 551x and 551y, respectively. Therefore, the current collector holder 550 may have a thickness that gradually decreases from opposite ends of the current collector holder 550 in the width direction (y direction) toward the corresponding adjacent first holes 551x and 551y.

[0135] In the region between the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y, the lower surface of the current collector retainer 550 may be symmetrically inclined toward the first holes 551x and 551y. That is, in this region, the lower surface of the current collector retainer 550 may be inclined in a generally V-shaped form.

[0136] The inclined lower surface of the current collector holder 550 can guide the first electrode tab 313 toward the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y.

[0137] Specifically, such as Figure 10a As shown, when the current collector assembly 500 moves downward toward the first electrode contact 313, the first electrode contact 313 can sequentially contact the lower surface of the current collector holder 550, starting from the first electrode contact 313 located at the end portion in the width direction (y direction). Figure 10bAs shown, when the current collector assembly 500 moves further downward, the first electrode tab 313 can be guided by the inclined lower surface of the current collector holder 550 to a plurality of first holes 551x and 551y. Subsequently, other first electrode tabs 313 located further inward in the width direction (y-direction) can sequentially contact the lower surface of the current collector holder 550 and can be sequentially guided to the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y. In this way, the first foil tab group 313a can be guided by the inclined lower surface of the current collector holder 550 and inserted into the first holes 551x and the first slits 511x, and the second foil tab group 313b can be guided by the inclined lower surface of the current collector holder 550 and inserted into the first holes 551y and the first slits 511y.

[0138] Therefore, in this embodiment, there is no need for a separate process of assembling multiple first electrode tabs 313 toward the first holes 551x and 551y, thereby simplifying the process of manufacturing the secondary battery 10.

[0139] Figure 11 The diagram shows... Figure 10a and Figure 10b Example of modifying the stream aggregation component.

[0140] like Figure 11 As shown, the edge where the lower surface of the current collector 550 meets each of the inner surfaces 551xa and 551ya of the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y can be rounded. Therefore, the lower surface of the current collector 550 can be connected to each of the inner surfaces 551xa and 551ya of the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y via a curved surface. Specifically, the lower surface of the current collector 550 can be connected to each of the inner surfaces 551xa and 551ya of the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y via a downwardly convex curved surface.

[0141] In the region between the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y, the lower surface of the current collector 550 may be formed as a curved surface. More specifically, between the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y, the lower surface of the current collector 550 may be formed as a downwardly convex curved surface, and may be connected to each of the inner surfaces 551xa and 551ya of the plurality of first holes 551x and 551y in a downwardly convex shape as described above.

[0142] In this modified example, the first foil patch group (313a, see...) Figure 10b ) and the second foil patch assembly (313b, see Figure 10b It can contact the corresponding curved surface, thereby reducing the risk of disconnection. Therefore, the electrical stability of the secondary battery 10 can be improved.

[0143] The secondary battery according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0144] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the current collector assembly of a secondary battery according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 13 It is a cross-sectional view showing the welding state of the electrode contacts.

[0145] The secondary battery according to the third embodiment of this disclosure can have the same structure as the first embodiment and the modified example described above, except for the shape of the first slits 511x and 511y, and therefore redundant descriptions of the same configuration are omitted.

[0146] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the first slits 511x and 511y can each be formed to be inclined in a portion of the segment.

[0147] Specifically, the first slit 511x may be vertically connected to the first hole 551 to pass vertically through the first current collector 510, and may include an inclined slit section 511x1 and a vertical slit section 511x2.

[0148] The inclined slit segment 511x1 can be formed to be inclined relative to the lower surface of the first current collector 510, and the vertical slit segment 511x2 can be formed to be perpendicular to the lower surface of the first current collector 510.

[0149] The inclined slit segment 511x1 can be connected downward to the first hole 551 and upward to the vertical slit segment 511x2. In other words, the inclined slit segment 511x1 can be formed to be inclined between the first hole 551 and the vertical slit segment 511x2 formed in the vertical direction (z direction).

[0150] The first slit 511y may also include an inclined slit segment 511y1 and a vertical slit segment 511y2. However, the inclined slit segment 511y1 of the first slit 511y may be formed to be inclined in the opposite direction to the inclined slit segment 511x1 of the first slit 511x.

[0151] The first electrode tab 313 can be successively inserted into the first hole 551 and the first slits 511x and 511y, and welded to the inner surface of the vertical slit segments 511x2 and 511y2.

[0152] Although not shown, the edges where the inclined slit segments 511x1 and 511y1 meet the vertical slit segments 511x2 and 511y2 or the first hole 551 can be rounded. Therefore, the risk of disconnection of the first electrode tab 313 inserted into the first slits 511x and 511y can be reduced, thereby improving the electrical stability of the secondary battery 10.

[0153] The first hole 551 can be formed at the center of the current collector 550 in the width direction (y direction), while the vertical slit segments 511x2 and 511y2 can each be formed offset toward one side of the first current collector 510 in the width direction (y direction).

[0154] For example, the vertical slit segment 511x2 can be formed to be offset from the center of the first current collector 510 toward the +y direction, and the vertical slit segment 511y2 can be formed to be offset from the center of the first current collector 510 toward the -y direction.

[0155] In this configuration, the vertical slit segments 511x2 and 511y2 can be vertically staggered relative to the first hole 551. That is, the vertical slit segments 511x2 and 511y2 do not vertically overlap with the first hole 551. In the plan view of the first current collector 510, the vertical slit segments 511x2 and 511y2 do not overlap with the first hole 551.

[0156] Therefore, even when Figure 13 The welding energy shown is applied vertically to the upper surface of the first current collector 510, and the welding energy does not reach the electrode assembly (300, see below). Figure 10b Therefore, it is possible to prevent damage to the electrode assembly (300, see below) during the welding process. Figure 10b This can reduce damage to the secondary battery 10 and improve its electrical stability.

[0157] Although not shown, the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y may be formed solely by inclined slit segments 511x1 and 511y1. In this case, the inclined slit segments 511x1 and 511y1 may obliquely penetrate the upper and lower surfaces of the first current collector 510 in opposite directions. A plurality of first electrode tabs 313 (313a and 313b) may be welded to the inner surfaces of the inclined slit segments 511x1 and 511y1, wherein the plurality of first electrode tabs 313 are oriented in an oblique direction relative to the upper surface of the first current collector 510.

[0158] Even in this case, the portions of the plurality of first electrode tabs 313 (313a and 313b) that are welded may not vertically overlap with the first hole 551. That is, even in this case, the plurality of first electrode tabs 313 (313a and 313b) may be welded in a vertically staggered position relative to the first hole 551. Therefore, welding energy will not reach the electrode assembly (300, see Figure 8 ), thereby preventing damage to the electrode assembly (300, see Figure 8 This reduces damage to the secondary battery 10 and improves its electrical stability.

[0159] The secondary battery according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0160] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of a current collector assembly for a secondary battery according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0161] The secondary battery according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure can have the same structure as the first embodiment and the modified example described above, except for the arrangement structure of the first foil bonding group 313a and the second foil bonding group 313b and the arrangement structure of the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y, and therefore redundant descriptions of the same configuration are omitted.

[0162] In addition, in this embodiment, the arrangement structure of the third foil patch group 333a and the fourth foil patch group 333b, as well as the arrangement structure of the plurality of second slits 531x and 531y, are the same as the arrangement structure of the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b, as well as the arrangement structure of the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y, and therefore their redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0163] Reference Figure 14 The first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b can be arranged in different columns. For example, the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b can form two different columns.

[0164] Specifically, the first foil patch group 313a can be arranged in a straight line along the width direction (y direction), and the second foil patch group 313b can also be arranged in a straight line along the width direction (y direction). However, the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b can be located at different positions in the longitudinal direction (x direction).

[0165] Correspondingly, multiple first slits 511x and 511y can also be formed in different columns. For example, either of the first slits 511x and 511y (e.g., 511x) can be formed over the first foil patch group 313a, and the remaining one of the first slits 511x and 511y (e.g., 511y) can be formed over the second foil patch group 313b.

[0166] Therefore, the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b, which are arranged in different columns, can be inserted into the first slit 511x and the first slit 511y, respectively.

[0167] The first foil patch assembly 313a can be inserted into and cut into the first slit 511x, and then welded to the inner surface of the first slit 511x in the width direction (y direction). The second foil patch assembly 313b can also be inserted into and cut into the first slit 511y, and then welded to the inner surface of the first slit 511y in the width direction (y direction).

[0168] In this embodiment, multiple first slits 511x and 511y are formed in different columns and therefore do not overlap each other in the width direction (y direction), allowing the first slits 511x and 511y to be designed with increased width (in the y direction). Therefore, the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b can be easily inserted into the first slits 511x and 511y, thereby improving the efficiency of the insertion process.

[0169] The secondary battery according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure will be described below.

[0170] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a current collector assembly for a secondary battery according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 16a to 16c This is a top view illustrating the process of inserting electrode contacts into the current collector assembly.

[0171] The secondary battery according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure has the same structure as the first embodiment and the modified example described above, except for the insertion method of the electrode contacts 313 and 333, and therefore redundant descriptions of the same configuration are omitted.

[0172] like Figure 15 As shown, a portion of the side surface of the first current collector 510 can be cut to form a first notch 512. A plurality of first electrode tabs 313 can be inserted from the side surface of the first current collector 510 into the first notch 512.

[0173] More specifically, the first cut 512 can be formed by cutting a side surface of the first current collector 510 in the width direction (y direction). Through the first cut 512, this side surface of the first current collector 510 in the width direction (y direction) can be opened. The first cut 512 can be connected to a plurality of first slits 511x and 511y in the longitudinal direction (x direction).

[0174] Reference Figures 16a to 16c The structure is described in more detail below. Multiple first electrode tabs 313 can be inserted into the first cutout 512 through one open side of the first current collector 510. In this case, the first electrode tabs 313 can be inserted into the first cutout 512 either when they are not clustered together or when they are clustered together.

[0175] The plurality of first electrode tabs 313 inserted into the first notch 512 can slide in the longitudinal direction (x direction) and can be inserted into the first slits 511x and 511y. Although not shown, during this process, the first electrode tabs 313 can be easily inserted into the first slits 511x and 511y by appropriately rotating the current collector 500 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

[0176] The first current collector 510 may further include a plurality of first slit guides 514x and 514y, the plurality of first slit guides 514x and 514y being configured to guide a plurality of first electrode contacts 313 inserted into the first cutout 512 toward the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y, respectively.

[0177] Multiple first slit guides 514x and 514y may be located between multiple first slits 511x and 511y and at one end of the open side of the first current collector 510 at opposite ends in the width direction (y direction).

[0178] Alternatively, although not illustrated, a plurality of first slit guides 514x and 514y may be formed, respectively, between a plurality of first slits 511x and 511y and at each of the opposite ends of the first current collector 510 in the width direction (y direction).

[0179] The plurality of first slit guides 514x and 514y can be formed to be inclined from the first cutout 512 toward the corresponding first slits 511x and 511y, or they can be rounded.

[0180] A plurality of first electrode contacts 313 inserted from the side surface of the first current collector 510 into the first notch 512 can slide toward a plurality of first slits 511x and 511y when the current collector assembly 500 moves in the -x direction or when the electrode assembly 300 moves in the +x direction. The plurality of first electrode contacts 313 sliding toward the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y can be guided by a plurality of first slit guides 514x and 514y and can be inserted into the corresponding first slits 511x and 511y.

[0181] Specifically, the first electrode tabs 313 of the first foil tab group 313a can slide along the first slit guide 514x, gather into a bundle, and be inserted into the first slit 511x. The first electrode tabs 313 of the second foil tab group 313b can slide along multiple first slit guides 514x and 514y, gather into a bundle, and be inserted into the first slit 511y.

[0182] Based on the above structure, the combined length L1 of the first notch 512 and the first slit 511x relative to the length L of the first electrode contact 313 can satisfy the relationship L1>2L. That is, the combined length L1 of the first notch 512 and the first slit 511x can be greater than twice the length L of the first electrode contact 313.

[0183] In the case of the second current collector 530, the second slits 531x and 531y, the second cut 532, and the second slit guides 534x and 534y can be formed in the same manner as the first current collector 510.

[0184] The first electrode tab 313 and the second electrode tab 333 can be simultaneously inserted into the first cut 512 and the second cut 532, respectively, when the current collector assembly 500 moves along the -y direction or when the electrode assembly 300 moves along the +y direction. Subsequently, the first electrode tab 313 and the second electrode tab 333 can be simultaneously inserted into a plurality of first slits 511x and 511y and a plurality of second slits 531x and 531y, respectively, when the current collector assembly 500 moves along the -x direction or when the electrode assembly 300 moves along the +x direction.

[0185] The current collector holder 550 can be configured to correspond to the structure of the first current collector 510 and the structure of the second current collector 530. That is, the current collector holder 550 can be configured to have a first hole (551, see...). Figure 4 The first holes, cuts, and guides have shapes corresponding to the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y, the first cut 512, and the plurality of first slit guides 514x and 514y, respectively.

[0186] In this embodiment, since the electrode contacts 313 and 333 are inserted through the side surface of the current collector 500, the process of inserting the electrode contacts 313 and 333 into the corresponding slits 511 and 531 can be facilitated. Therefore, the process of manufacturing the secondary battery 10 can be simplified.

[0187] In the following, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0188] Figure 17 This is a block diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 18a and Figure 18b The diagram shows... Figure 17 Insertion operation. Figure 19a and Figure 19b The diagram shows... Figure 17 The cutting operation. Figure 20 The diagram shows... Figure 17 Welding operations.

[0189] like Figure 17 As shown, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure includes: an insertion operation S300 of inserting a first foil patch group 313a and a second foil patch group 313b into a plurality of first slits 511x and 511y; a cutting operation S500 of cutting the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b; a welding operation S700 of welding the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b to the inner surfaces of the plurality of first slits 511x and 511y; and an assembly operation S900 of inserting a first connecting terminal 513 into a first terminal hole 711 and connecting a current collector assembly 500 and a cover assembly 700.

[0190] Reference Figure 18a Prior to the insertion operation S300, a receiving operation S100 may be performed to house the electrode assembly 300 within the housing 100. Subsequently, the first electrode tab 313 may be aligned toward the center in the width direction (y-direction). The receiving operation S100 does not necessarily occur before the insertion operation S300. The receiving operation S100 may be performed between the welding operation S700 and the assembly operation S900, which will be described later, or it may be performed after the assembly operation S900.

[0191] like Figure 18b As shown, in the insertion operation S300, the current collector assembly 500 moves downward or the electrode assembly 300 moves upward, causing the first foil patch group 313a to be successively inserted into the first hole 551 and the first slit 511x, and the second foil patch group 313b to be successively inserted into the first hole 551 and the first slit 511y. In this case, the current collector assembly 500 is vertically spaced apart from the electrode assembly 300 by a predetermined distance and is positioned above the electrode assembly 300.

[0192] However, the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b are not necessarily inserted by moving the current collector 500 downwards. The first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b can be inserted through the side surface of the current collector 500, as described in the fifth embodiment above (see...). Figure 15 and Figures 16a to 16c As stated in ( ).

[0193] Reference Figure 19a and Figure 19bIn the cutting operation S500, the upper ends E of the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b protruding above the upper surface of the first current collector 510 can be cut. Specifically, the upper ends E of the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b can be cut at a height similar to the height of the upper surface of the first current collector 510. Therefore, the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b can be formed to have a height similar to the height of the upper surface of the first current collector 510. In other words, after the cutting operation, the height of the first foil patch group 313a and the height of the second foil patch group 313b can be equal to the height of the upper surface of the first current collector 510, or slightly higher or slightly lower than the height of the upper surface of the first current collector 510.

[0194] Reference Figure 20 In welding operation S700, the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b can be welded to the inner surface 511xa of the first slit 511x and the inner surface 511ya of the first slit 511y, respectively.

[0195] The first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b can be directly welded, wherein the upper portions of the first foil patch group 313a and the upper portions of the second foil patch group 313b are exposed through the first slits 511x and 511y. Alternatively, welding can be performed after additional metal plates are placed on the first slits 511x and 511y.

[0196] Welding can be performed using laser welding, ultrasonic welding, etc. Welding energy can be applied from above the first current collector 510 towards the first current collector 510.

[0197] Specifically, welding energy can be applied across the first slits 511x and 511y along the width direction (y direction). Therefore, multiple welding lines can be formed across the first foil patch group 313a and the second foil patch group 313b along the width direction (y direction).

[0198] The weld line may be parallel to the width direction (y direction), but this disclosure is not limited thereto. The weld line, which crosses the first slits 511x and 511y at various angles along the width direction (y direction), may be formed in patterns such as inclined shapes or V-shapes.

[0199] After welding is completed, assembly operation S900 can be performed.

[0200] Refer again Figure 3 In assembly operation S900, the cover assembly 700 can be positioned above the current collector assembly 500. To connect the current collector assembly 500 and the cover assembly 700, the first terminal hole 711 can be aligned with the position of the first connection terminal 513.

[0201] Here, the distance D1 between the first connecting terminal 513 and the second connecting terminal 533 can be equal to the distance D2 between the first terminal hole 711 and the second terminal hole 731. Since the connecting terminals 513 and 533 are integrated with the current collector assembly 500 and are positionally constrained, when the first connecting terminal 513 is aligned with the first terminal hole 711, the second connecting terminal 533 can also automatically align with the second terminal hole 731.

[0202] In this state, the first connection terminal 513 can be inserted into the first terminal hole 711, and the second connection terminal 533 can be inserted into the second terminal hole 731, thereby connecting the current collector assembly 500 and the cover assembly 700.

[0203] Therefore, in the current collector assembly 500, the secondary battery 10 including the current collector assembly 500, and the method of manufacturing the secondary battery 10 according to the present disclosure, aligning only one of the connecting terminals 513 and 533 with the corresponding terminal hole allows the other of the connecting terminals 513 and 533 to be aligned with the corresponding terminal hole without needing to adjust the positions of the connecting terminals 513 and 533 separately. Therefore, the connecting terminals 513 and 533 can be aligned with the corresponding terminal holes 711 and 731 simultaneously. Thus, the assemblability of the current collectors 510 and 530 with the cover assembly 700 can be improved.

[0204] Furthermore, the current collector assembly 500, the secondary battery 10 including the current collector assembly 500, and the method of manufacturing the secondary battery 10 according to the present disclosure allow electrode contacts 313 and 333 to pass vertically through the current collector assembly 500 and connect to the current collectors 510 and 530. Therefore, the first electrode contact 313 can be manufactured with a reduced length (H, see below). Figure 4 This reduces resistance and heat generation caused by current flow, thus effectively alleviating heat generation problems.

[0205] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes or modifications may be made to this disclosure by adding, altering, or deleting components without departing from the spirit of this disclosure as defined in the following claims. It should be noted that such changes or modifications also fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A secondary battery, comprising: A plurality of first electrode contacts are respectively connected to a plurality of first electrodes, and the plurality of first electrode contacts include a first foil contact group and a second foil contact group; Multiple second electrode contacts are respectively connected to multiple second electrodes, and the multiple second electrode contacts include a third foil contact group and a fourth foil contact group; A flow collection component, the flow collection component comprising: A current collector holder, the current collector holder being formed of an insulating material, the current collector holder having a first hole formed on a first side of the current collector holder and a second hole formed on a second side of the current collector holder. A first current collector, connected to the upper portion of the first side of the current collector holder and having formed a plurality of first slits vertically connected to the first hole, the first current collector including a first connecting terminal, and A second current collector, connected to the upper portion of the second side of the current collector holder and having a plurality of second slits vertically connected to the second hole, the second current collector including a second connecting terminal; and The cover assembly includes a first electrode terminal and a second electrode terminal electrically connected to the first current collector and the second current collector, respectively. The first foil patch group and the second foil patch group are respectively inserted into the plurality of first slits and connected to the inner surface of the plurality of first slits.

2. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of first slits are spaced apart from each other in the width direction.

3. The secondary battery according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of first slits are spaced apart by the same distance from the center of the first current collector in the width direction.

4. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein, The first hole is formed into a plurality of first holes.

5. The secondary battery according to claim 4, wherein, The current collector retainer has a lower surface that is inclined toward the plurality of first holes.

6. The secondary battery according to claim 4, wherein, The lower surface of the current collector holder has a rounded edge where it meets the inner surface of each of the plurality of first holes.

7. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of first slits includes: An inclined slit section, the inclined slit section being connected to the first hole and formed to be inclined relative to the lower surface of the first current collector; and A vertical slit section, which is connected to the inclined slit section and is formed perpendicular to the lower surface of the first current collector.

8. The secondary battery according to claim 7, wherein, The vertical slit segment is vertically staggered relative to the first hole.

9. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of first slits are formed in different columns.

10. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein, A first cut is formed in one side surface of the first current collector in the width direction.

11. The secondary battery according to claim 10, wherein, The first incision is connected to the plurality of first slits in the longitudinal direction.

12. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein, The first foil patch group and the second foil patch group, which are respectively inserted into the plurality of first slits, are oriented in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the first current collector.

13. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein, The first foil patch group and the second foil patch group are arranged in different columns.

14. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein, The cover assembly also includes: A cover plate having a first terminal hole and a second terminal hole, wherein the first connecting terminal is inserted into the first terminal hole and the second connecting terminal is inserted into the second terminal hole.

15. The secondary battery according to claim 14, wherein, The distance between the first connecting terminal and the second connecting terminal is equal to the distance between the first terminal hole and the second terminal hole.

16. A method for manufacturing a secondary battery, wherein the secondary battery is the secondary battery according to claim 15, the method comprising: Insertion operation: Insert the first foil patch group and the second foil patch group into the plurality of first slits respectively; Cutting operation: Cut the first foil patch group and the second foil patch group that protrude above the first current collector; Welding operation: Welding the first foil patch group and the second foil patch group to the inner surface of the plurality of first slits; and Assembly operation: Insert the first connection terminal into the first terminal hole to connect the current collection assembly to the cover assembly.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The welding operation includes forming a weld line that spans the first slit in the width direction.

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