Battery cell array, battery pack including battery cell array, and vehicle

Abstract

The present application relates to a battery cell array capable of improving cooling efficiency, and a battery pack and a vehicle including the battery cell array, and provides a battery cell array, and a battery pack and a vehicle including the battery cell array, the battery cell array characterized by comprising: a plurality of battery cells arranged in n rows in a predetermined length; and a cooling pipe cooling the plurality of battery cells and contacting the plurality of battery cells to surround at least a portion of each of the plurality of battery cells, wherein n cooling pipes are provided, the n cooling pipes corresponding one-to-one to the plurality of battery cells arranged in n rows.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to battery cell arrays, battery packs including battery cell arrays, and vehicles, and more specifically to battery cell arrays capable of improving cooling efficiency, battery packs including battery cell arrays, and vehicles.

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0121656 filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on September 6, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Secondary batteries, highly adaptable to a wide range of products and exhibiting excellent electrical performance such as high energy density, are commonly used not only in portable devices but also in electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) powered by electric sources. Secondary batteries have attracted attention as a new energy source for improving environmental friendliness and energy efficiency because the use of fossil fuels can be significantly reduced and no byproducts are generated during energy consumption.

[0004] Currently widely used rechargeable batteries include lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and nickel-zinc batteries. The operating voltage of a single rechargeable battery cell (i.e., a single battery cell) is approximately 2.5 V to 4.5 V. Therefore, if a higher output voltage is required, multiple battery cells can be connected in series to form a battery pack. Furthermore, depending on the required charge / discharge capacity of the battery pack, multiple battery cells can be connected in parallel to configure the battery pack. Therefore, the number of battery cells included in a battery pack can be set differently depending on the required output voltage or the required charge / discharge capacity.

[0005] Simultaneously, stable cooling through effective thermal management between battery cells is essential for optimizing cell performance and lifespan. In particular, cooling technologies capable of rapidly and uniformly removing heat generated between cells are crucial for high-density battery packs, such as those used in electric vehicles and energy storage systems. To achieve this, cooling pipes positioned between battery cells must maximize heat transfer performance and dissipate heat quickly. The design of cooling pipes for improving cooling efficiency plays a vital role in maintaining uniform cell temperature and preventing overheating in specific cells.

[0006] However, existing cooling pipes are designed to cool two rows of battery cells simultaneously, and the cooling area of ​​each cell is only about 16% of the total cell area. This structural limitation results in low cooling efficiency, making it difficult to effectively control battery temperature. In particular, the heat generated from the battery has increased significantly due to OEMs' (Original Equipment Manufacturers) recent stringent requirements for battery pack QC (fast charging) performance. Therefore, achieving effective thermal management with existing cooling systems is becoming increasingly challenging.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to develop a battery cell array structure equipped with cooling pipes that can effectively manage the heat between battery cells to address increased heat generation and further maximize cooling efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a battery cell array that can further improve cooling efficiency compared with existing battery cells, a battery pack including the battery cell array, and a vehicle.

[0010] Furthermore, the present invention aims to provide a battery cell array, a battery pack including the battery cell array, and a vehicle, wherein the battery cell array can increase the cooling area ratio of the battery cells by increasing the curvature of the cooling pipes.

[0011] However, the technical problems that this disclosure seeks to solve are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following description other problems not mentioned herein.

[0012] Technical solution

[0013] To achieve the above objectives, this disclosure provides a battery cell array comprising: a plurality of battery cells arranged in n columns at a predetermined length; and cooling tubes configured to cool the plurality of battery cells and contact the plurality of battery cells to surround at least a portion of each of the plurality of battery cells, wherein the n cooling tubes are configured to form a one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of battery cells arranged in the n columns.

[0014] Furthermore, preferably, the cooling pipe can be configured such that at least a portion of the cooling pipe is inserted between at least a pair of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

[0015] Furthermore, preferably, the cooling pipe is formed such that at least a portion thereof is in close contact with at least one pair of adjacent battery cells in two directions.

[0016] Furthermore, preferably, the cooling pipe can have a contact angle of 90 degrees with at least one pair of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

[0017] Furthermore, preferably, the cooling pipe may include protrusions and recesses that are repeatedly arranged along the arrangement direction of the plurality of battery cells.

[0018] Furthermore, preferably, the plurality of battery cells that are in contact with the protrusion and the recess respectively can be arranged in a row.

[0019] Furthermore, preferably, the shapes of the protrusions and recesses can be deformed to adjust the number of battery cells in contact.

[0020] Furthermore, preferably, each of the protrusions and recesses can be configured to accommodate two battery cells respectively.

[0021] Furthermore, preferably, the protrusions and recesses can be configured to accommodate different numbers of battery cells in the arrangement direction.

[0022] Furthermore, preferably, the cooling pipe may include at least one bend configured to contact the battery cell; and at least one flat portion configured not to contact the battery cell.

[0023] Furthermore, preferably, the battery cell array may also include a heat transfer member connected to the plurality of battery cells and configured to contact the flat portion.

[0024] Furthermore, preferably, the cooling pipe may include a recessed portion, at least a portion of which is configured to be in close contact with the outer periphery of at least a pair of adjacent battery cells located on the same side surface based on the arrangement direction of the plurality of battery cells.

[0025] Furthermore, preferably, the battery cell array may also include an adhesive member disposed between the plurality of battery cells and the cooling pipe.

[0026] The battery cell array may also include a side structure configured to support the plurality of battery cells and guide the cooling pipe into close contact with the plurality of battery cells.

[0027] In addition, this disclosure provides a battery pack including at least one array of battery cells according to the foregoing embodiments.

[0028] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a vehicle that includes at least one battery pack according to the foregoing embodiments.

[0029] Beneficial effects

[0030] Battery cell arrays, battery packs including battery cell arrays, and vehicles according to various embodiments of this disclosure have the effect of increasing the cooling area of ​​each battery cell to achieve high cooling efficiency.

[0031] In addition, the battery cell has the effect of keeping the battery cell temperature at a low level by dissipating the increased heat generated due to QC (fast charging).

[0032] However, the effects that can be obtained through this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other technical effects not mentioned herein through the following disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0033] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the foregoing disclosure, serve to provide a further understanding of the technical features of the present disclosure; therefore, the present disclosure is not to be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a battery cell array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic enlarged view showing a portion of a cooling pipe in contact with an adjacent battery cell in a battery cell array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a diagram used to explain the contact angle of the cooling pipes in a battery cell array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a diagram used to explain the contact structure between the cooling pipe and the battery cell in a battery cell array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 6 This is a diagram used to explain the battery cell housing unit in a battery cell array according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell array for explaining another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the contact pattern of a cooling pipe in a battery cell array according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 9 This is a diagram used to explain a battery cell array according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 10This is a schematic diagram illustrating the contact pattern of the cooling pipes in a battery cell array according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a diagram used to explain a battery cell array according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a diagram used to explain a battery cell array according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 13 This is a schematic enlarged view of a battery cell array according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before the description, it should be understood that the terminology used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to its general or dictionary meaning, but rather is interpreted based on the principle of allowing the inventors to appropriately define the terminology for the best interpretation, and on the meaning and concepts corresponding to the technical aspects of the present disclosure.

[0049] Therefore, the description presented herein is merely a preferred example for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. It should be understood that other equivalents and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0050] Furthermore, this disclosure includes various embodiments. For each embodiment, redundant descriptions of substantially the same or similar components will be omitted, and differences will be described.

[0051] Furthermore, to aid in understanding this disclosure, the drawings are not drawn to scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Additionally, the same reference numerals may be assigned to the same components in different embodiments.

[0052] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0053] Additionally, when an element is referred to as “connected,” “linked,” or “attached” to another element, the element may be directly connected or linked to the other element. However, it should be understood that there may be intermediary elements between each element, or each element may be “connected,” “linked,” or “attached” to each other through another element.

[0054] Singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as “include” or “comprise” should not be construed as necessarily including all components or steps described in the specification, but should be construed as meaning that some components or steps may be excluded, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0055] Throughout this instruction manual, unless otherwise expressly stated, “A and / or B” means either A or B or both A and B.

[0056] In addition, in this specification, terms indicating direction, such as “up,” “down,” “left,” “right,” “front,” and “back,” may be used. However, these terms are merely for ease of interpretation, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these terms may vary depending on the position, arrangement, or orientation of the target object or the position of the observer.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a battery cell array 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] refer to Figure 1 The battery cell array 10 may include battery cells 100 and cooling pipes 200.

[0059] In the following, in each embodiment of this disclosure, each of the plurality of battery cells 100 is described as a cylindrical secondary battery, but the battery cells 100 of this disclosure are not limited thereto and may be provided as secondary batteries such as cylindrical secondary batteries, pouch secondary batteries or rectangular secondary batteries.

[0060] The cooling pipe 200 is configured to cool a plurality of battery cells 100 and can contact each battery cell 100 to surround at least a portion of the battery cell 100. Therefore, the cooling pipe 200 may have a cell contact shape having a predetermined curvature for contacting the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0061] Furthermore, the cooling pipe 200 may have cooling water inlet and outlet channels for the flow of the cooling medium to enable effective thermal management within the battery cell array 10. The cooling medium is a liquid with high heat transfer efficiency and may be water. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and in addition to water, one or more fluids capable of effectively exchanging heat under various conditions may be included as the cooling medium.

[0062] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery cell array 10 may include a plurality of battery cells 100, and the battery cells 100 may be arranged in columns to optimize the battery pack P (see...). Figure 14 The space efficiency within the battery pack P will be explained later. Thus, multiple battery cells 100 arranged in columns can be configured with a predetermined length suitable for housing within the battery pack P, and can then be arranged again in multiple columns using the above arrangement as a basic unit. This arrangement is designed to maximize space efficiency within the battery pack P and facilitate electrical connections and thermal management within the battery pack P.

[0063] The cooling pipes 200 can be configured as n cooling pipes to form a one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of battery cells 100 arranged in n columns. Here, n can be a natural number. In this way, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, one of the plurality of battery cells 100 arranged in each column as a basic unit and one of the cooling pipes 200 can be assembled or connected to form a correspondence. In the prior art, a single cooling pipe is used to simultaneously cool cells arranged in two columns, which leads to the problem of dispersed cooling efficiency of each battery cell 100. However, in this embodiment, the cooling pipes 200 can form a correspondence with the battery cells 100 arranged in each column and cool the battery cells 100 more precisely and independently, thereby maximizing the cooling efficiency of each battery cell 100.

[0064] Therefore, the battery cell array 10 according to this disclosure can provide an effective and stable thermal management solution through the structure of the cooling pipes 200, which correspond one-to-one with the multiple battery cells 100 arranged in each column.

[0065] The cooling pipe 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below.

[0066] Figure 2 This is a schematic enlarged view showing the portion of a cooling pipe 200 in contact with an adjacent battery cell 100 in a battery cell array 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a diagram used to explain the contact angle (θ) of the cooling pipe 200 in the battery cell array 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a diagram used to explain the contact structure between the cooling pipe 200 and the battery cell 100 in the battery cell array 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] Reference Figures 2 to 5 The cooling pipe 200 is formed to have a predetermined length required for cooling the multiple battery cells 100 arranged in each row, and can be formed to have a certain curvature in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) to improve the cooling performance of the battery cells 100 provided as cylindrical secondary batteries. This is to ensure a large contact area between the outer periphery of the cylindrical battery cells 100 and the cooling pipe 200, thereby improving cooling performance.

[0068] The cooling pipe 200 can be configured such that at least a portion of the cooling pipe 200 is disposed between at least a pair of adjacent battery cells 100 in a plurality of battery cells 100, in order to further increase the curvature of the cooling pipe 200 and thereby increase the cooling area ratio.

[0069] At this time, the cooling pipe 200 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can be configured to be in close contact with two adjacent battery cells 100 in two directions while a portion of the cooling pipe 200 passes between two adjacent battery cells 100. Therefore, the cooling pipe 200 and the heat-generating areas of the battery cells 100 are positioned as close as possible to maximize the thermal contact area between the cooling pipe 200 and the battery cells 100, thereby enabling the heat exchange that occurs when the cooling medium circulates through the cooling pipe 200 to be performed more effectively.

[0070] The cooling pipe 200 may be configured to have a contact angle (θ) of a certain range or greater with at least one pair of adjacent battery cells 100 among a plurality of battery cells 100.

[0071] Preferably, such as Figure 3 As shown, to further increase the thermal contact area between the cooling pipe 200 and the battery cell 100, at least one pair of adjacent battery cells 100 and the cooling pipe 200 can be formed with a contact angle (θ) of 90 degrees. When the cooling pipe 200 is formed with a contact angle (θ), the cooling pipe 200 can provide a wider contact area for the heat-generating region of the battery cell 100, that is, the thermal contact area is expanded to about 16% to about 25% of the existing cooling area ratio, thereby helping to further improve heat transfer efficiency. When the cooling medium flows through the cooling pipe 200, this structure can more effectively absorb the heat generated in the battery cell 100.

[0072] like Figure 4 As shown, the cooling pipe 200 can have a curved shape as a result of repeatedly intersecting the arrangement direction of the multiple battery cells 100 arranged in a row in each column in the lateral direction.

[0073] Specifically, the curved shape of the cooling pipe 200 can be formed by alternating protrusions and recesses in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction). This alternating arrangement of protrusions and recesses can mean that a recess is formed between two protrusions, and a protrusion is formed between two recesses. During the manufacturing process of the cooling pipe 200, this curved shape can be formed by pressurizing it using a pressurizing device. That is, the protrusions and recesses can be formed alternately by pressurizing it using a pressurizing device.

[0074] Furthermore, the protrusions and recesses can be formed with sufficient curvature and arranged to contact each other, allowing the entire battery cell 100 to be stably housed in each portion. This structure increases the tightness of contact between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200, thereby maximizing heat transfer efficiency. That is, the protrusions and recesses can be configured to surround the battery cell 100 as if the battery cell 100 were housed deeper, allowing the wider outer periphery of the battery cell 100 to make the closest possible contact with the cooling pipe 200. This effectively absorbs the heat generated from the battery cell 100 and rapidly releases the heat through the cooling pipe 200, thereby significantly improving the thermal management performance of the battery cell array 10.

[0075] At this point, preferably, since the multiple battery cells 100 that are in contact with the protrusion and the recess respectively are arranged in a row to form a straight line, even when the multiple battery cells 100 are arranged in n columns, the multiple battery cells 100 in each column can be configured to maintain the best space efficiency and density in the battery pack P by arranging them in a straight line.

[0076] like Figure 5 As shown, the cooling pipe 200 is formed to have a predetermined length required for cooling the multiple battery cells 100 arranged in each row, and can be formed to have a certain curvature in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) according to the alternating structure of protrusions and recesses, so as to improve the cooling performance of the battery cells 100 provided as cylindrical secondary batteries.

[0077] In addition, the cooling pipe 200 may include at least one curved portion 211 with a predetermined curvature that contacts the battery cell 100 and at least one flat portion 212 that does not contact the battery cell 100.

[0078] The curved portion 211 is the portion that directly performs heat exchange through contact with the battery cell 100, and can be formed such that the curved surface of the cooling pipe 200 is in close contact with the outer surface (i.e., outer periphery) of the battery cell 100. This structural feature maximizes the heat transfer area, thereby effectively transferring the heat generated from each battery cell 100 to the cooling pipe 200.

[0079] The flat portion 212 is the part of the cooling pipe 200 that does not directly contact the battery cell 100, and a space can be formed between the battery cell 100 and the flat portion 212. This space forms a specific air layer between the battery cell 100 and the flat portion 212, and due to this structure, a path can be provided for the cooling medium to circulate freely within the cooling pipe. Therefore, the cooling medium can flow effectively through the flat portion 212 within the cooling pipe 200, and the efficiency of heat exchange can be improved. In particular, this relatively flat path can achieve smooth circulation without hindering the flow of the cooling medium, thereby improving the overall heat transfer performance.

[0080] Furthermore, this empty space can help to evenly distribute the heat of the battery cell 100 and can help control the thermal conductivity of the cooling pipe 200. In addition, the empty space between the flat portion 212 and the battery cell 100 can provide a buffering effect against thermal contraction and expansion, and can help to reduce mechanical pressure or stress that may occur during the installation and removal of the cooling pipe 200.

[0081] In this way, the empty space between the flat portion 212 and the cooling pipe 200 allows for a more flexible structural design of the cooling pipe 200, thereby ensuring the effective and stable operation of the battery cell array 20.

[0082] Figure 6 This is a diagram used to explain the housing unit for battery cell 100 in battery cell array 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] The cooling pipe 200 may include protrusions and recesses of various shapes, which are designed to optimize the thermal contact area with the battery cell 100, such as... Figure 6 As shown.

[0084] Specifically, each of the protrusions and recesses of the cooling pipe 200 can have a structure in which the number of battery cells 100 in contact is achieved in various ways. For example, the protrusions and recesses can be formed to accommodate the same number of battery cells 100, or they can be formed to accommodate different numbers of battery cells 100. Thus, depending on the arrangement of the battery cells 100, one, two, three, or more battery cells 100 can be formed to contact the protrusions and recesses. For example, a protrusion can be formed to allow only one battery cell 100 to make close contact with the protrusion, or to allow two battery cells 100 to contact the protrusion simultaneously, and a recess can provide sufficient space to contact three or more battery cells 100 and accommodate them together therein. These different contact configurations maximize the thermal contact area according to the arrangement of the battery cells 100 and help to effectively dissipate the heat generated from each battery cell 100, which can significantly improve the overall thermal management performance of the battery cell array 10.

[0085] Furthermore, the cooling pipe 200 can be configured such that the battery cells 100 are in regular or irregular contact at these portions. For example, the cooling pipe 200 can be configured to accommodate two battery cells 100 in each of the protrusions and recesses (a), or it can be configured to accommodate different numbers of battery cells 100 in the arrangement direction, such that one battery cell 100 is accommodated in the protrusion and two battery cells 100 are accommodated in the recess (b).

[0086] The structure of the cooling pipe 200 (in which the number of battery cells 100 in contact is realized in various ways) can be formed as a fixed or adjustable form designed according to the cooling requirements and arrangement of the multiple battery cells 100. Specifically, the protrusions and recesses of the cooling pipe 200 can be designed in various shapes and sizes.

[0087] Specifically, these structural features can be implemented in various ways.

[0088] First, the cooling pipe 200 can be formed with a fixed structure for a specific battery cell arrangement. In this case, protrusions and recesses are manufactured according to predetermined positions and dimensions to match a pre-designed arrangement of the battery cells 100, such that only a specific number of battery cells 100 can contact the cooling pipe 200 at predetermined positions. For example, the protrusions can be fixedly shaped so that only one battery cell 100 can contact them, and the recesses can be fixedly shaped to have a depth or curvature that allows two or more battery cells 100 to contact them simultaneously. Such a fixed structure allows for a simple manufacturing process and is suitable for repeated arrangements.

[0089] Furthermore, the cooling pipe 200 can be formed as a flexible structure that can be adjusted according to variations in the arrangement of multiple corresponding battery cells 100. In this case, the protrusions and recesses can be formed from relatively flexible materials or a modular design, allowing the user to arbitrarily adjust the number of battery cells 100 in contact with the protrusions and recesses as needed. For example, if the cooling pipe 200 is made of an elastic material or thermoplastic resin, the position or size of the protrusions and recesses can be adjusted according to the size and arrangement of the battery cells 100 to contact various numbers of battery cells 100. Moreover, in a modular design, the number of battery cells in contact in a specific area can be adjusted by replacing or rearranging the individual components of the cooling pipe 200. This flexible structure can respond to various arrangements of battery cells 100 with various sizes and shapes and can provide optimal thermal contact area according to cooling requirements.

[0090] Figure 7 This is a diagram used to explain another embodiment of the battery cell array 20 of this disclosure, and Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the contact pattern of the cooling pipe 200 in a battery cell array 20 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The battery cell array 20 may include battery cells 100, cooling pipes 200, and heat transfer components 300.

[0092] The heat transfer member 300 can be configured to connect to at least one pair of adjacent battery cells of the battery cell 100 and to contact the flat portion 212 of the cooling pipe 200.

[0093] The heat transfer component 300 can be made of a material with excellent thermal conductivity and is configured to efficiently transfer heat generated from the battery cell 100 to the cooling pipe 200. Such a material has high thermal conductivity for rapid heat transfer and can help to quickly transfer heat from the battery cell 100 to the cooling pipe 200.

[0094] The heat transfer member 300 can be precisely shaped to maximize heat transfer efficiency. For example, the heat transfer member 300 can be formed to completely fill the empty space between the flat portion 212 and the battery cell 100. This shape can maximize the use of the properties of the thermally conductive material to ensure that heat is transferred uniformly through the heat transfer member 300. In addition, the heat transfer member 300 can help increase the contact area between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200 and optimize the heat transfer path.

[0095] Furthermore, the surface treatment and shape of the heat transfer component 300 can further improve thermal conductivity. For example, by forming fine protrusions or patterns on the surface of the heat transfer component 300, the contact area between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200 can be increased, and a heat conduction path can be established more effectively. This surface treatment helps improve heat transfer performance and can maximize heat exchange efficiency by maximizing the thermal contact between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200.

[0096] The shape and connection process of the heat transfer member 300 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0097] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the heat transfer member 300 can be configured to maximize the thermal contact area between the battery cell 100 in the form of a cylindrical battery and the cooling pipe 200. The heat transfer member 300 is formed around the outer periphery of the battery cell 100 and may include a recess for close contact and connection with the battery cell 100. This recess has a structure that makes close contact with the cylindrical outer periphery of the battery cell 100 and can directly transfer the heat generated in the battery cell 100 to the heat transfer member 300.

[0098] Observing the process in detail, when the battery cell 100 is connected to the recess of the heat transfer member 300, the outer periphery of the battery cell 100 is in close contact with the concave surface of the heat transfer member 300. The heat transfer member 300 is arranged around the battery cell 100 and contacts the outer periphery of the battery cell 100 over the largest area to effectively absorb and conduct heat generated from the battery cell 100.

[0099] The heat transfer member 300 has recesses on both sides, allowing two battery cells 100 to be connected to each recess. As a result, the heat transfer member 300 can be connected to two battery cells 100 simultaneously on both sides. The battery cells 100 can be fixed or attached to the recesses of the heat transfer member 300 to form a single unit as a whole and to contact the cooling pipe 200.

[0100] The heat transfer component 300 and the battery cell 100, in a connected state, can be assembled to make close contact with the curved portion 211 and the flat portion 212 of the cooling pipe 200, which are integral. That is, the heat transfer component 300 is in direct contact with the flat portion 212 of the cooling pipe 200, and the battery cell 100 is in contact with the curved portion 211, which is bent to make close contact with the outer periphery of the battery cell 100, thereby providing the maximum thermal contact area between the outer periphery of the battery cell 100 and the surface of the cooling pipe 200.

[0101] Therefore, the heat generated in the battery cell 100 is directly or effectively transferred to the cooling pipe 200 through the heat transfer member 300, and can be quickly released through the cooling medium circulating in the cooling pipe 200.

[0102] This structural design is configured to maximize cooling efficiency by rapidly transferring heat generated from the battery cell 100 directly or indirectly to the cooling pipe 200. The connection structure between the cylindrical battery cell 100 and the heat transfer member 300 with a recess, and the process by which this connection structure contacts the cooling pipe 200, can improve the thermal management performance of the battery cell array 20 and ensure stable and efficient battery operation.

[0103] Figure 9 This is a diagram used to explain the battery cell array 30 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the contact pattern of the cooling pipe 220 in a battery cell array 30 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 The battery cell array 30 may include battery cells 100 and cooling pipes 220. This is similar to the cooling pipe 200 in the previous embodiment (see...). Figure 5 Similarly, the cooling pipe 220 is formed to have a predetermined length required to cool the plurality of battery cells 100 arranged in each row, and can be formed to have a predetermined curvature in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) to improve the cooling performance of the battery cells 100 provided as cylindrical secondary batteries.

[0105] In addition, the cooling pipe 220 may include a plurality of bends 221 that are in close contact with the battery cell 100 and a plurality of recesses 222 formed between the plurality of bends and in at least partial contact with the battery cell.

[0106] The curved portion 221 is the part that directly transfers heat through contact with the battery cell 100, and can be formed to make close contact with the outer surface (i.e., outer periphery) of the battery cell 100. This structural feature maximizes the heat transfer area, thereby effectively transferring the heat generated from each battery cell 100 to the cooling pipe 220.

[0107] The bend 221 is in close contact with the heat-generating area of ​​the battery cell 100, and thus can help to effectively dissipate the heat generated from each battery cell 100. This close contact design improves heat transfer efficiency and allows the cooling medium to absorb and cool heat more effectively.

[0108] The recess 222 is a portion of the cooling pipe 220 that at least partially contacts the battery cell 100, and can be configured to be in close contact with at least a portion of the outer periphery of at least one pair of adjacent battery cells 100 located on the same side, based on the arrangement direction of the battery cells 100. In other words, when the cooling pipe 220 is configured to simultaneously surround and contact two or more battery cells 100, the cooling pipe 220 can be formed to reduce or fill the empty space between the cooling pipe 220 and adjacent battery cells 100.

[0109] Therefore, the shape of the recess 222 can be precisely configured to make close contact with the cylindrical outer periphery of the battery cell 100 and provide an optimal heat transfer path. The recess 222 can be formed with a smoothly curved shape corresponding to the outer curvature of the battery cell 100. Furthermore, the cooling pipe 220 can be made of a flexible material, allowing the user to adjust the cooling pipe 220 to make close contact with the space between adjacent battery cells 100. Thus, by creating a minimum gap between the curved surface of each battery cell 100 and the inner surface of the cooling pipe 220, the recess 222 can maximize heat transfer efficiency.

[0110] Therefore, the heat generated from the battery cell 100 is transferred not only to the bend 221 of the cooling pipe 220, but also to the recess 222 of the cooling pipe. Such a heat transfer path can contribute to a more uniform heat distribution among the battery cells 100, and prevent localized thermal overload by providing a wider thermal contact area with the outer periphery of the battery cell 100 through the recess 222.

[0111] Furthermore, since the groove 222 is formed such that its curvature matches the shape of the outer surface of the battery cell 100, the cooling pipe 220 can securely fix multiple battery cells 100 and maintain a stable connection even under external impact or vibration. In this way, the battery cell 100 can be fixed in place without shaking and can maintain reliable thermal management performance even under long-term use.

[0112] This structural design maximizes the thermal contact area, allowing heat generated from the battery cell 100 to be directly and quickly transferred to the cooling pipe 220, thereby improving the thermal management performance of the battery cell array 30 and ensuring stable and efficient battery operation.

[0113] Figure 11 This is a diagram used to explain the battery cell array 40 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0114] Reference Figure 11 The battery cell array 40 may include battery cells 100, cooling pipes 200, and adhesive members 400. The adhesive members 400 may guide the battery cells 100 to be more firmly attached to the inner surface of the cooling pipes 200.

[0115] The adhesive component 400 can be made of a material with excellent thermal conductivity to effectively transfer heat generated from the battery cell 100 to the cooling pipe 200. The adhesive component 400 can be made primarily of silicone-based, epoxy-based, or polyurethane-based thermally conductive adhesives, each with its own unique properties and advantages. For example, silicone-based adhesives have excellent flexibility and electrical insulation properties, while epoxy-based adhesives offer strong adhesion and chemical resistance, allowing for stable performance in a variety of environments. Furthermore, polyurethane-based adhesives have excellent flexibility and shock absorption properties, making them suitable for absorbing stress caused by the thermal expansion and contraction of the battery cell 100. Thus, heat generated from the battery cell 100 can be effectively transferred and dissipated to the cooling pipe 200 through the adhesive component 400.

[0116] Furthermore, the shape of the adhesive member 400 can be configured to maximize close contact between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200, and for this purpose, the adhesive member 400 can be provided in the form of a thin and flexible film, adhesive layer, or gasket. The adhesive member 400 can be uniformly arranged between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200 without at least partially empty space, thereby maximizing heat transfer efficiency and minimizing the thermal resistance of the adhesive portion.

[0117] In addition, the adhesive component 400 serves as a buffer between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200, thereby preventing damage to the multiple battery cells 100 due to external impacts or vibrations and improving the overall structural stability.

[0118] Therefore, the adhesive component 400 can play a role in enhancing the physical connection between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200 and improving the overall thermal management performance of the battery cell array 40.

[0119] Meanwhile, the adhesive member 400 can also be disposed between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200 of the battery cell array 20 in the previous embodiment (see [reference]). Figure 7 and Figure 8 ), and is disposed between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 220 of the battery cell array 30 in the previous embodiment (see Figure 9 and Figure 10 ).

[0120] Figure 12 This is a diagram used to explain the battery cell array 50 according to another embodiment of this disclosure, and Figure 13 This is a schematic enlarged view of a battery cell array 50 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0121] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 The battery cell array 50 may include battery cells 100, cooling pipes 200 and side structures 500.

[0122] The side structure 500 can be configured to stably maintain the position of the battery cell 100 within the battery cell array 50 and support a closer contact between the cooling pipe 200 and the battery cell 100. In other words, the side structure 500 can minimize the gap between the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200 to maximize heat transfer efficiency and quickly transfer the heat from the battery cell 100 to the cooling pipe 200.

[0123] Structurally, the side structure 500 can be formed to closely contact and support the cooling pipe 200, which is arranged to surround and contact the outer periphery of the battery cell 100 at the side surface. This close contact structure maximizes the heat transfer performance of the cooling pipes 200 and 220 and minimizes the air layer between the outer periphery of the battery cell 100 and the cooling pipe 200, thereby reducing the thermal resistance in the heat transfer path.

[0124] Furthermore, the side structure 500 can help increase the durability and stability of the battery cell array 50. For example, the side structure 500 can firmly fix the battery cell 100 so that the battery cell 100 does not move even when subjected to vibration or external impact, which allows even the battery pack P (see below) to remain stable even when subjected to vibration or external impact. Figure 14 It maintains high stability even during prolonged use. Furthermore, the shape of the side structure 500 facilitates the overall arrangement and assembly process of the battery cell array 50, thereby helping to reduce manufacturing costs and increase productivity.

[0125] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] See Figure 14 and Figure 15The battery pack P according to the embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one battery cell array 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 according to the foregoing embodiments and a battery pack housing C that accommodates the battery cell array 10, 20, 30, 40, 50.

[0127] The battery pack P according to embodiments of this disclosure may also include various other components of the battery pack P known at the time of filing of this application. For example, the battery pack P according to embodiments of this disclosure may also include components such as a current sensor, a fuse, and a service plug.

[0128] Furthermore, the vehicle V according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one battery pack P according to the present disclosure. In addition to the battery pack P, the vehicle V according to embodiments of the present disclosure may also include various other components included in a vehicle. For example, in addition to the battery pack P according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the vehicle V according to embodiments of the present disclosure may also include a vehicle body, an electric motor, and control devices such as an ECU (electronic control unit).

[0129] In addition to the vehicle V, the battery pack P according to the embodiments of this disclosure can also be equipped in other devices, instruments and facilities, such as energy storage systems using secondary batteries.

[0130] According to the various embodiments described above, battery cell arrays 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 with cooling pipes 200, 220, as well as battery packs P and vehicles V including battery cell arrays, can be provided. The cooling pipes 200, 220 can increase the cooling area of ​​each battery cell 100 to have high cooling efficiency.

[0131] Furthermore, according to the various embodiments described above, battery cell arrays 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 with cooling pipes 200, 220 can be provided, as well as battery packs P and vehicles V including battery cell arrays. The cooling pipes 200, 220 are able to dissipate the increased heat generated due to QC (fast charging) and keep the temperature of the battery cell 100 at a low level.

[0132] The present disclosure has been described in detail. However, it should be understood that although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been pointed out, the detailed description and specific examples are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications within the scope of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on the detailed description.

[0133] [Figure Labels]

[0134] 10, 20, 30, 40, 50: Battery cell array

[0135] 100: Battery cell

[0136] 200: Cooling pipe

[0137] 211: Bend

[0138] 212: Flat section

[0139] 220: Cooling pipe

[0140] 221: Bend

[0141] 222: Groove portion

[0142] 300: Heat transfer components

[0143] 400: Adhesive component

[0144] 500: Side structure

[0145] P: Battery pack

[0146] C: Battery pack casing

[0147] V: Vehicle

Claims

1. A battery cell array, the battery cell array comprising: Multiple battery cells, wherein the multiple battery cells are arranged in n columns with a predetermined length; as well as A cooling pipe configured to cool and contact the plurality of battery cells, surrounding at least a portion of each of the plurality of battery cells. The cooling pipes are configured as n cooling pipes, forming a one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of battery cells arranged in the n columns.

2. The battery cell array according to claim 1, in, The cooling pipe is configured such that at least a portion of the cooling pipe is inserted between at least a pair of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

3. The battery cell array according to claim 1, in, The cooling pipe has a contact angle of 90 degrees with at least one pair of adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

4. The battery cell array according to claim 1, in, The cooling pipe includes protrusions and recesses that are repeatedly arranged along the arrangement direction of the plurality of battery cells.

5. The battery cell array according to claim 4, in, The plurality of battery cells that are in contact with the protrusion and the recess respectively are arranged in a row to form a straight line.

6. The battery cell array according to claim 4, in, The shape of the protrusion and the recess is deformed to adjust the number of battery cells in contact.

7. The battery cell array according to claim 4, in, The protrusion and the recess are configured to accommodate two battery cells respectively.

8. The battery cell array according to claim 4, in, The protrusions and recesses are configured to accommodate different numbers of battery cells in the arrangement direction.

9. The battery cell array according to claim 1, in, The cooling pipe includes: At least one bent portion, said at least one bent portion being configured to contact the battery cell; and At least one flat portion, said at least one flat portion being configured not to contact the battery cell.

10. The battery cell array according to claim 9, wherein the battery cell array further comprises: A heat transfer member is connected to the plurality of battery cells and is configured to contact the flat portion.

11. The battery cell array according to claim 1, in, The cooling pipe includes a recessed portion, at least a portion of which is configured to be in close contact with the outer periphery of at least a pair of adjacent battery cells located on the same side surface based on the arrangement direction of the plurality of battery cells.

12. The battery cell array according to claim 1, wherein the battery cell array further comprises: An adhesive member is disposed between the plurality of battery cells and the cooling pipe.

13. The battery cell array according to claim 1, wherein the battery cell array further comprises: A side structure configured to support the plurality of battery cells and guide the cooling pipe into close contact with the plurality of battery cells.

14. A battery pack comprising at least one array of battery cells according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A vehicle comprising at least one battery pack according to claim 14.

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