Secondary battery and secondary battery module including the secondary battery

Abstract

A secondary battery and a secondary battery module including the secondary battery are disclosed. The secondary battery includes: an electrode assembly; a housing housing the electrode assembly, the housing including an opening on at least one side; and a cover plate sealing the opening, wherein the housing includes an inner wall, an outer wall spaced apart from and surrounding the inner wall, a space portion between the inner wall and the outer wall, and a connecting wall connecting the inner wall and the outer wall, the connecting wall sealing the upper end of the space portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to secondary batteries and secondary battery modules including the secondary batteries. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which are not designed for (re)charging, secondary (or rechargeable) batteries are designed to discharge and be recharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in portable small electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders, while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for electric motors in hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as for storing electricity (e.g., household and / or utility-scale power storage). A secondary battery typically includes an electrode assembly containing positive and negative electrodes, a housing of the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] The information disclosed in this background section is intended to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may include information that does not constitute related (or prior art). Summary of the Invention

[0004] One embodiment relates to a secondary battery, comprising: an electrode assembly; a housing housing the electrode assembly, the housing including an opening on at least one side; and a cover sealing the opening, wherein the housing includes an inner wall, an outer wall spaced apart from and surrounding the inner wall, a space portion between the inner wall and the outer wall, and a connecting wall connecting the inner wall and the outer wall, the connecting wall sealing the upper end of the space portion.

[0005] The housing may include a first port and a second port, through which liquid flows in and out, and through which gas flows in and out.

[0006] Each of the inner and outer walls may include a bottom surface and four side surfaces extending vertically from the bottom surface.

[0007] The first port may be on one of the four side surfaces of the outer wall.

[0008] The first port can be located on the bottom surface of the outer wall.

[0009] The second port can be on the connection wall.

[0010] The cover may include a third port connected to the second port.

[0011] The cover plate can come into face-to-face contact with the connecting wall.

[0012] The embodiment relates to a secondary battery module, which includes a plurality of secondary batteries, a plurality of liquid supply tanks configured to supply liquid to the housings of the plurality of secondary batteries respectively, and flow paths respectively connected to the housings of the plurality of secondary batteries, the flow paths communicating with the outside, wherein each of the plurality of secondary batteries includes: an electrode assembly; a housing for receiving the electrode assembly, the housing including an opening on at least one side; and a cover plate for sealing the opening, wherein the housing includes an inner wall, an outer wall spaced apart from and surrounding the inner wall, a space portion between the inner wall and the outer wall, and a connecting wall connecting the inner wall and the outer wall, the connecting wall sealing the upper end of the space portion.

[0013] The housing of each of the plurality of secondary batteries may include a first port connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of liquid supply tanks and a second port connected to a flow path, with liquid flowing in and out of the first port and gas flowing in and out of the second port.

[0014] The cover may include a third port connected to the second port.

[0015] The flow path can be connected to a third port.

[0016] The secondary battery module may further include a sealing member between the flow path and the third port.

[0017] The bottom surface of the casing of each of the plurality of secondary batteries may be at a level lower than the upper surface of the corresponding one of the plurality of liquid supply tanks.

[0018] The plurality of liquid supply tanks can be located at the lower end of the plurality of secondary batteries, and each of the plurality of liquid supply tanks can include a lifter, which controls the flow rate of the liquid supplied to the housing.

[0019] The secondary battery module may further include a valve that controls the flow rate of gas supplied through the flow path.

[0020] The secondary battery module may further include a measurement unit configured to measure at least one of the pressure and temperature of each of the plurality of secondary batteries.

[0021] The secondary battery module may further include a battery management system, which monitors and manages the operating status of the plurality of secondary batteries based on at least one of pressure and temperature measured by the measuring unit.

[0022] The battery management system can control the flow rate of liquid supplied from the plurality of liquid supply tanks to the housing based on at least one of pressure and temperature measured by the measuring unit.

[0023] The battery management system can control the flow rate of gas through the flow path based on at least one of pressure and temperature measured by the measuring unit.

[0024] These and other aspects and features of this disclosure will be described in or will become apparent from the following description of embodiments of this disclosure.

[0025] However, the aspects and features of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the detailed description below that other aspects and features not mentioned are also included. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The following accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description of the present disclosure, further describe aspects and features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0027] Features will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view showing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and is Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the secondary battery shown is taken along line A-A'.

[0030] Figure 3 The bottom surface of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0031] Figure 4 The top surface of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0032] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the casing and cover of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing the casing and cover of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing the casing and cover of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view showing a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 9This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0037] Figure 10 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Example embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, they may be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey exemplary implementations to those skilled in the art.

[0039] In the accompanying drawings, for clarity of illustration, the dimensions of layers and regions may be exaggerated. It will also be understood that when a layer or element is referred to as "on" another layer or substrate, it may be directly on said other layer or substrate, or there may be intervening layers. Furthermore, it will be understood that when a layer is referred to as "below" another layer, it may be directly below said other layer, or there may be one or more intervening layers. Additionally, it will be understood that when a layer is referred to as "between two layers," it may be the only layer between said two layers, or there may be one or more intervening layers. The same reference numerals always refer to the same elements.

[0040] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted in accordance with the principle that the inventor may be his / her own lexicographer to appropriately define the concepts of the terms so as to best illustrate his / her invention, and are consistent with the meaning and conception of the technical idea of ​​this disclosure.

[0041] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are only some of the embodiments of this disclosure and do not represent all the technical ideas, aspects, and features of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist to replace or modify the embodiments described herein at the time of filing this application.

[0042] It will be understood that when a layer or element is referred to as being "between" two layers, it can be the only layer between the two layers, or there may be one or more intervening layers. It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, "connected to" another element or layer, or "bonded to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly bonded to the other element or layer, or there may be one or more intervening elements or layers. When an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on" another element or layer, "directly connected to" another element or layer, or "directly bonded to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers. For example, when a first element is described as being "bonded" or "connected" to a second element, the first element can be directly bonded to or connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly bonded to or connected to the second element via one or more intervening elements.

[0043] In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be exaggerated for clarity of illustration. The same reference numerals denote the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of this disclosure, the use of "may" refers to "one or more embodiments of this disclosure." Expressions such as "at least one of" and "any one of" modify the entire list of elements when following it, without modifying individual elements of the list. When phrases such as "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "at least one selected from the group of A, B, and C," or "at least one selected from A, B, and C" are used to refer to a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrase may refer to any and all suitable combinations or subsets of A, B, and C, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the terms "use," "using," and "being used" may be considered synonymous with the terms "utilize," "using," and "being exploited," respectively. As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree, and are intended to describe the inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0044] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component, region, layer, or section. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0045] For ease of description, spatial relation terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” and “above” may be used herein to describe the relationship of an element or feature to other elements or features as shown in the figures. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures, the spatial relation terms are also intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will be oriented “above” or “above” said other elements or features. Therefore, the term “below” can cover both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relation descriptions used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0046] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular form “a” is also intended to include the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that, when used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “including,” and / or “containing” indicate the presence of stated features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0047] Furthermore, any numerical range disclosed and / or described herein is intended to include all subranges of the same numerical precision falling within the described range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between the described minimum value of 1.0 and the described maximum value of 10.0 (and including both the described minimum value of 1.0 and the described maximum value of 10.0), i.e., all subranges having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as, for example, 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit described herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits falling within it, and any minimum numerical limit described in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits falling within it. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification (including the claims) to expressly describe any subranges falling within the range expressly described herein.

[0048] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” can mean that they are “substantially identical.” Therefore, the phrase “substantially identical” can include cases with deviations considered low in the art (e.g., 5% or less). Furthermore, when a parameter is said to be uniform in a given region, it can mean that it is uniform in terms of average value.

[0049] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0050] Arranging any element "above (or below)" or "on (below)" another element can mean that the arbitrary element can be positioned to contact the upper (or lower) surface of the other element, or that another element can be inserted between the other element and the arbitrary element positioned on (or below) the other element.

[0051] Furthermore, it will be understood that when a component is referred to as “linked,” “combined,” or “connected” to another component, these components can be directly “linked,” “combined,” or “connected” to each other, or another component can be “inserted” between these components.

[0052] Throughout this specification, when “A and / or B” is stated, it means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated. That is, “and / or” includes any or all combinations of the listed items. When “C to D” is stated, it means C or more and D or fewer, unless otherwise stated.

[0053] The terminology used in this specification is for describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0054] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view showing a secondary battery 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 The secondary battery 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include: an electrode assembly 120; a housing 110 that houses the electrode assembly 120 and includes an opening on at least one side; and a cover 130 that seals the opening, wherein the housing 110 may include: an inner wall 111; an outer wall 112 that is spaced apart from and surrounds the inner wall 111; and a space portion (see Figures 5 to 7 A connecting wall 113 is formed between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112; and a connecting wall 113 connects the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 and seals the upper end of the space portion.

[0056] Electrode assembly 120 can be formed by winding or stacking a first electrode plate, a diaphragm, and a second electrode plate into a thin plate or film. When electrode assembly 120 is a wound stack, the winding axis can be parallel to the longitudinal direction (e.g., the y-direction) of housing 110. In other embodiments, electrode assembly 120 can be a stack type instead of a wound type, and the shape of electrode assembly 120 is not limited in this disclosure. Furthermore, electrode assembly 120 can be a Z-stack electrode assembly, in which positive electrode plate and negative electrode plate are inserted into both sides of a diaphragm bent into a Z-shape. In addition, multiple electrode assemblies 120 can be stacked such that the long sides of the multiple electrode assemblies 120 are adjacent to each other, and can be housed in housing 110, the number of electrode assemblies 120 in housing 110 being not limited in this disclosure. The first electrode plate of electrode assembly 120 can be used as a negative electrode, and the second electrode plate can be used as a positive electrode. Of course, the reverse is also possible. Therefore, the first electrode plate of electrode assembly 120 can be used as a positive electrode, and the second electrode plate can be used as a negative electrode.

[0057] The first electrode plate can be formed by applying a first electrode active material, such as graphite or carbon, to a first electrode substrate formed of a metal foil such as copper, a copper alloy, nickel, or a nickel alloy. The first electrode plate may include a first electrode tab (e.g., a first uncoated portion), which is a region where the first electrode active material is not applied. The first electrode tab can serve as a current flow path between the first electrode plate and a first electrode current collector. In some embodiments, when manufacturing the first electrode plate, the first electrode tab can be formed by being pre-cut to protrude towards one side of the electrode assembly, or the first electrode tab can protrude further towards one side of the electrode assembly than the diaphragm without being individually cut.

[0058] The second electrode plate can be formed by applying a second electrode active material, such as a transition metal oxide, to a second electrode substrate formed of a metal foil such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The second electrode plate may include second electrode tabs (e.g., second uncoated portions), which are areas where the second electrode active material is not applied. The second electrode tabs can serve as current flow paths between the second electrode plate and the second electrode current collector. In some embodiments, when manufacturing the second electrode plate, the second electrode tabs can be formed by being pre-cut to protrude toward the other side of the electrode assembly (e.g., the opposite side of said one side), or the second electrode tabs can protrude further toward said other side of the electrode assembly than the diaphragm without being individually cut.

[0059] The membrane may include a porous substrate and a coating on one or both surfaces of the porous substrate, comprising organic materials, inorganic materials or combinations thereof.

[0060] The porous substrate can be a polymer membrane formed from any of the following polymers: polyolefins (such as polyethylene and polypropylene), polyesters (such as polyethylene terephthalate and polybutylene terephthalate), polyacetal, polyamide, polyimide, polycarbonate, polyetherketone, polyaryletherketone, polyetherimide, polyamideimide, polybenzimidazole, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene ether, cyclic olefin copolymers, polyphenylene sulfide, polyethylene naphthalate, glass fiber, Teflon and polytetrafluoroethylene, or it can be a polymer membrane formed from copolymers or mixtures of two or more of these polymers.

[0061] Organic materials may include polyvinylidene fluoride polymers or (meth)acrylic acid polymers.

[0062] Inorganic materials may include, but are not limited to, inorganic particles selected from Al2O3, SiO2, TiO2, SnO2, CeO2, MgO, NiO, CaO, GaO, ZnO, ZrO2, Y2O3, SrTiO3, BaTiO3, Mg(OH)2, boehmite and combinations thereof.

[0063] Organic and inorganic materials can be mixed in a coating, or coatings containing organic materials and coatings containing inorganic materials can be stacked.

[0064] The casing 110 can form the overall appearance of the secondary battery 100. As a specific example, the secondary battery 100 can be a prismatic battery. In this case, the casing 110 of the secondary battery 100 can have a substantially cuboid shape, but the type and shape of the secondary battery 100 can vary.

[0065] One side of the housing 110 may be open, and a receiving space for accommodating the electrode assembly 120 may be formed inside the housing 110. The open side of the housing 110 may be the upper surface, side surface, or bottom surface of the housing 110. Figure 1 A housing 110 with its upper surface open is shown according to an embodiment.

[0066] The housing 110 may have a cuboid shape with one open side. According to embodiments of this disclosure, each of the inner wall 111 and outer wall 112 of the housing 110 may include a bottom surface and four side surfaces extending vertically from the bottom surface. For example, the outer wall 112 may form the outermost portion of the housing 110 and may be provided as a box shape with one open side; each of the bottom surface and four side surfaces of the outer wall 112 may include two opposing long sides and two opposing short sides.

[0067] Meanwhile, the inner wall 111 can be spaced apart from the outer wall 112 at a predetermined interval, and a predetermined space portion can be formed between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112. For example, like the outer wall 112, the inner wall 111 can be provided as a box shape with one side open, and each of the bottom surface and four side surfaces of the inner wall 111 can include two opposing long sides and two opposing short sides.

[0068] The open sides of the inner wall 111 and the open sides of the outer wall 112 can be formed on the same plane. Except for the areas where the open sides of the housing 110 overlap, the outer wall 112 can be configured to surround the inner wall 111. Therefore, the electrode assembly 120 can be disposed inside the housing 110 such that the electrode assembly 120 is supported by the bottom surface of the inner wall 111 of the housing 110 and surrounded by the four side surfaces of the inner wall 111.

[0069] Liquids and / or gases can flow into and out of the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 (see...) Figures 5 to 7 The introduced liquid and / or gas can fill all or part of the space.

[0070] Meanwhile, on the open side of the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112, a connecting wall 113 can be provided to connect the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 and seal the upper end of the space portion.

[0071] The specific configuration and function of the housing 110 and the cover 130 will be referred to Figures 2 to 4 Detailed description.

[0072] The cover plate 130 can be engaged with the opening of the housing 110 to seal the housing 110. For example, the cover plate 130 can be face-to-face (i.e., directly) contact with and engaged with the connecting wall 113 of the housing 110 to seal the open side of the housing 110.

[0073] The cover plate 130 may include: a first electrode terminal hole 131a, corresponding to the first electrode terminal 141a and penetrating the cover plate 130; and a second electrode terminal hole 131b, corresponding to the second electrode terminal 141b and penetrating the cover plate 130. Furthermore, the cover plate 130 may further include an exhaust portion 132 disposed between the first electrode terminal hole 131a and the second electrode terminal hole 131b.

[0074] The venting section 132 can be designed with relatively weak strength to release internal pressure when the internal pressure of the housing 110 accumulates to a preset critical point or higher. The venting section 132 can rupture under internal pressure equal to or greater than the critical point to release internal pressure, and can prevent explosions or fires caused by the accumulation of internal pressure in advance.

[0075] The vent portion 132 can be coupled to a vent port that penetrates the cover plate 130 (e.g., surrounding the vent portion 132) while the vent portion 132 is inserted into the vent port. Therefore, the vent port can be sealed by the vent portion 132. In the event of a rupture of the vent portion 132, emissions can be released through the vent port to the outside of the housing 110. Emissions may include exhaust gases, explosion pressure, flames, and debris.

[0076] exist Figure 1 In the diagram, an exhaust portion 132 is shown at the center of the cover plate 130; however, the number and location of the exhaust portions 132 can be determined in various ways as needed, taking into account the shape, internal pressure, or capacity of the cover plate 130. For example, the cover plate 130 may include multiple exhaust portions 132. The multiple exhaust portions 132 may be provided to open when the internal pressure of the housing 110 reaches a set pressure, and may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the cover plate 130.

[0077] The first electrode terminal 141a and the second electrode terminal 141b can be coupled to the cover plate 130. As in a conventional secondary battery, the first electrode terminal 141a and the second electrode terminal 141b can be disposed on the cover plate 130 at a predetermined spacing. According to this disclosure, the positions of the first electrode terminal 141a and the second electrode terminal 141b can differ from... Figure 1 The position shown can be modified in various ways.

[0078] The first electrode terminal 141a and the second electrode terminal 141b can protrude outward through the cover plate 130. Here, the first electrode terminal 141a can be electrically connected to the first electrode plate, and the second electrode terminal 141b can be electrically connected to the second electrode plate. Of course, the reverse is also possible.

[0079] The cover plate 130 may include an electrolyte injection port. For example, the electrolyte injection port may be a through-hole formed in the cover plate 130. Furthermore, the electrolyte injection port can be used to inject electrolyte into the housing 110 after the cover plate 130 is coupled to and seals the opening of the housing 110. After electrolyte injection, the electrolyte injection port can be sealed with a sealing member.

[0080] The housing 110 can be formed of a metallic material such as stainless steel (SUS), aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. However, this is exemplary, and the housing 110 can be made of various metallic materials that meet the strength and resistance to external impact required by the secondary battery 100.

[0081] Despite Figure 1The example shown is only a prismatic secondary battery, but the type of secondary battery can be cylindrical, pouch-shaped, or any other type. In this case, a protective member can be formed between at least one surface of the electrode assembly and the housing, and the position of the protective member can be appropriately varied depending on the type of housing.

[0082] In the following text, the configuration of housing 110 and cover 130 will be referred to Figures 2 to 4 Detailed description.

[0083] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and is Figure 1 The secondary battery shown is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A'. Figure 3 The bottom surface of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 4 The top surface of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 4 The electrode terminals are not shown.

[0084] Reference Figure 2 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the casing 110 of the secondary battery may include a first port 210 and a second port 220, through which liquid flows in and out, and through which gas flows in and out.

[0085] The first port 210 can be formed on a side surface of the outer wall 112; however, the location where the first port 210 is formed can vary. For example, as Figure 2 As shown, the first port 210 can be formed on the bottom surface 114 of the outer wall 112. When the first port 210 is formed on the bottom surface of the housing 110 (i.e., the bottom surface 114 of the outer wall 112), during liquid inflow, liquid can be introduced into the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 by using a pump or lifter, and during liquid discharge, liquid can be discharged to the outside of the secondary battery housing 110 by gravity without the need for a separate device.

[0086] Reference Figure 3 Although the shape of the first port 210 is shown as circular, the first port 210 may have a polygonal or elliptical shape.

[0087] The first port 210 may be formed only on one side surface of the outer wall 112 and may not be formed in the inner wall 111. Therefore, liquid flowing in and out through the first port 210 may only flow in and out of the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112, preventing liquid from flowing in and out of the receiving space that houses the electrode assembly surrounded by the inner wall 111.

[0088] exist Figure 3The diagram shows two first ports 210; however, the number of first ports 210 can vary. As the number of first ports 210 increases, the inflow / outflow rate and velocity of the liquid can be increased, thus enabling faster execution of internal pressure and temperature control of the secondary battery 100.

[0089] Refer again Figure 2 The second port 220 can be formed on the connecting wall 113. Therefore, the gas flowing in and out through the second port 220 can only flow in and out of the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112, which can prevent the gas from flowing in and out of the receiving space where the electrode assembly surrounded by the inner wall 111 exists.

[0090] Meanwhile, cover plate 130 may be disposed on connecting wall 113. Cover plate 130 may include a third port 230 connected to second port 220 (e.g., in fluid communication with second port 220).

[0091] exist Figure 2 In the diagram, the connecting wall 113 is shown as being formed at the upper end of the housing 110; however, the connecting wall 113 may also be formed on the side surface or the bottom surface of the housing 110. Therefore, the second port 220 may also be formed on the side surface or the bottom surface of the housing 110. Figure 2 As shown, when the connecting wall 113 is formed at the upper end of the housing 110 and the second port 220 is formed at the upper end of the housing 110, during the gas inflow, gas can be introduced into the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 by using a gas supply device, and during the gas discharge, gas can be discharged to the outside of the housing 110 of the secondary battery by utilizing the internal pressure of the secondary battery and the density of the gas, without the need for a separate device.

[0092] The second port 220 and the third port 230 may have corresponding shapes (e.g., the same shape that overlaps with each other). For example, the second port 220 and the third port 230 may have circular shapes. However, the second port 220 and the third port 230 may have polygonal or elliptical shapes.

[0093] Furthermore, if a channel through which gas can flow is provided by connecting the second port 220 and the third port 230 to each other, the shapes of the second port 220 and the third port 230 can be different from each other. For example, the second port 220 can be triangular in shape, while the third port 230 can be elliptical in shape.

[0094] Reference Figure 4Although four third ports 230 are shown formed in the cover plate 130, the number of third ports 230 can vary. As the number of third ports 230 increases, the inflow / outflow rate and velocity of gas can be increased, thus enabling faster internal pressure and temperature control of the secondary battery 100.

[0095] In addition, Figure 4 In the diagram, the location where the third port 230 is formed is shown as being adjacent to the first electrode terminal hole 131a and the second electrode terminal hole 131b; however, the location where the third port 230 is formed can vary. If a passage for gas flow is provided by connecting the third port 230 to the second port 220, the third port 230 can be formed at any location on the cover plate 130.

[0096] Figures 5 to 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing the casing and cover of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] Reference Figure 5 Liquid L and gas G can be introduced into the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 of the housing 110. Liquid L can be introduced through the first port 210, and gas G can be introduced through the second port 220 and the third port 230. Furthermore, liquid L can be discharged through the first port 210, and gas G can be discharged through the second port 220 and the third port 230. The inflow and outflow rates of liquid L and gas G can be adjusted in the direction of suppressing a rapid increase in the internal pressure and temperature of the secondary battery.

[0098] Liquid L may include at least one of water, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), liquid nitrogen, liquid helium, oil, and combinations thereof, but liquid L may vary. For example, liquid L may be water with a temperature of about 5°C or lower.

[0099] Gas G may include at least one of ambient air, nitrogen, helium, neon, argon, hydrogen, and oxygen, but the gas can vary. For example, gas G may be an inert gas that hardly reacts with other substances, such as helium, neon, or argon.

[0100] Reference Figure 6When the internal temperature of the secondary battery rises, gas G can be introduced into the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 through the second port 220 and the third port 230, while liquid L can be discharged from the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 through the first port 210. As gas G is introduced into the space and occupies a larger portion of the space than liquid L, liquid L can be discharged to the outside of the first port 210. During this process, gas G can move from the upper part to the lower part of the space and can be cooled by air to reduce the internal temperature of the secondary battery. For example, while liquid L, whose temperature has risen due to heat generated inside the casing 110, is discharged to the outside of the first port 210, pre-cooled gas G can be introduced into the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 through the second port 220 and the third port 230, thereby reducing the internal temperature of the secondary battery.

[0101] Furthermore, even when the internal pressure of the secondary battery increases due to expansion, as the liquid L is discharged through the first port 210 from the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112, a larger amount of gas G can be introduced through the second port 220 and the third port 230. Therefore, the expansion resistance of the secondary battery can be improved to suppress expansion.

[0102] Reference Figure 7 When the internal temperature of the secondary battery rises, liquid L can be introduced through the first port 210 into the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112, while gas G can be discharged from the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 through the second port 220 and the third port 230. As liquid L is introduced into the space and occupies a larger portion of it than gas G, gas G can be discharged to the outside of the third port 230. During this process, liquid L can move from the lower to the upper part of the space and can be cooled by water (e.g., more generally, liquid) to reduce the internal temperature of the secondary battery. For example, while gas G, whose temperature has risen due to heat generated inside the casing 110, is discharged to the outside of the second port 220 and the third port 230, pre-cooled liquid L can be introduced through the first port 210 into the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112, thereby reducing the internal temperature of the secondary battery.

[0103] Furthermore, even when the internal pressure of the secondary battery increases due to expansion, a larger amount of liquid L can be introduced through the first port 210 as gas G is discharged from the space between the inner wall 111 and the outer wall 112 through the second port 220 and the third port 230. Therefore, the expansion resistance of the secondary battery can be improved to suppress expansion.

[0104] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view showing a secondary battery module 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 and Figure 10 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a secondary battery module 1100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0105] Reference Figure 8 The secondary battery module 1000 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include: a plurality of secondary batteries 100; and a plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 configured to supply liquid L to the housings of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 respectively. Furthermore, the secondary battery module 1000 may further include flow paths 400 respectively connected to the housings of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 and communicating with the outside. Each of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 may include: an electrode assembly; a housing housing the electrode assembly and including an opening on at least one side; and a cover plate sealing the opening. The housing may include: an inner wall; an outer wall spaced apart from and surrounding the inner wall; a space portion formed between the inner wall and the outer wall; and a connecting wall connecting the inner wall and the outer wall and sealing the upper end of the space portion.

[0106] Reference above Figure 1 The same description can be applied to multiple secondary batteries 100 included in the secondary battery module 1000.

[0107] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing included in each of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 may include a first port 210 and a second port 220, the first port 210 being connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 and liquid L flowing in and out through the first port 210, and the second port 220 being connected to a flow path 400 and gas flowing in and out through the second port 220.

[0108] Each of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 can be used to supply liquid L to the space formed between the inner and outer walls of the secondary battery casing when the temperature or pressure inside the secondary battery increases and it is necessary to suppress the increase. Furthermore, when it is necessary to supply gas to the space of the secondary battery 100, liquid L can be discharged from the space of the secondary battery to the associated liquid supply tank 300.

[0109] Each of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 may have an open end to accommodate the lower portion of the plurality of secondary batteries 100, and may include a bottom surface and four side surfaces extending vertically from the bottom surface. The area of ​​the bottom surface of each of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 may be larger than the area of ​​the bottom surface of the secondary battery 100.

[0110] However, the shape of each of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 can be any shape, as long as each of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 can accommodate the secondary battery 100. For example, each of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 can have a closed cuboid shape without an open end. In this case, each of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 can be configured not to contact the secondary battery 100 and can supply liquid L via a first port 210 connected to the secondary battery 100 via a pipe, pump, etc.

[0111] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the bottom surface of the casing of each of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 may be located at a level lower than the upper surface of the corresponding one of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300. However, the position of the secondary battery 100 relative to the liquid supply tank 300 can be any position, as long as liquid L can be supplied to the space portion of the secondary battery 100.

[0112] When the bottom surface of the casing of each of the plurality of secondary batteries 100 is at a level lower than the upper surface of the corresponding one of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300, the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 can be respectively disposed at the lower end of the plurality of secondary batteries 100. In addition, each of the plurality of liquid supply tanks 300 may include a lifter 310, which controls the flow rate of liquid L supplied to the casing.

[0113] The lifter 310 can be used to push liquid L upward toward a first port 210 formed on the bottom surface of the secondary battery 100. Therefore, liquid L can be supplied from the liquid supply tank 300 through the first port 210 to the space formed between the inner and outer walls of the housing of the secondary battery 100. The lifter 310 can have a movable range from the bottom surface of the liquid supply tank 300 to the bottom surface of the secondary battery 100 where the first port 210 is located. The lifter 310 can have an area corresponding to the area of ​​the bottom surface of the liquid supply tank 300, and thus can seal the open end of the liquid supply tank 300. The lifter 310 can be connected to a lifting device (e.g., a linear motor, hydraulic cylinder) that can raise and lower the lifter 310, but the drive mechanism of the lifter 310 can be varied.

[0114] The type of liquid L that can be used in the liquid supply tank 300 is the same as the one mentioned above. Figure 5 The types of descriptions are the same.

[0115] The flow path 400 can be a channel through which gas flows and can be connected to the third port 230. Therefore, the flow path 400 can be used to supply gas to the space formed between the inner and outer walls of the secondary battery casing when the temperature or pressure inside the secondary battery increases and it is necessary to suppress this increase. Furthermore, when it is necessary to supply liquid L to the space of the secondary battery 100, gas can be discharged from the space of the secondary battery to the outside through the flow path 400.

[0116] The flow path 400 can be connected to the third port 230 of the secondary battery 100 and can extend in the vertical direction. The vertically extending flow path 400 can communicate with the outside to discharge gas to the outside or to introduce gas from the outside into the space portion of the secondary battery 100.

[0117] For this purpose, the flow path 400 may include a first flow path 401 and a second flow path 402. The first flow path 401 is connected to the third port 230 of the secondary battery 100 and extends in a vertical direction, while the second flow path 402 is connected to the first flow path 401 and communicates with the outside. The second flow path 402 may extend in a direction intersecting with or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first flow path 401. The second flow path 402 may communicate with multiple first flow paths 401 connected to multiple secondary batteries 100 and may serve as a channel through which gas discharged from the multiple first flow paths 401 is discharged to the outside or through which gas introduced from the outside is supplied to the spatial portion of the secondary battery 100 via the multiple first flow paths 401.

[0118] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a sealing member may be disposed between the flow path 400 and the third port 230. The sealing member can seal the connection between the third port 230 and the flow path 400, thereby preventing gas flowing in and out of the flow path 400 from escaping into spaces outside the flow path.

[0119] Reference Figure 9 The secondary battery module 1100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may further include a valve 320 that controls the flow rate of gas supplied through the first flow path 401. The valve 320 is connected to the flow path 400 to control the supply and discharge of gas. For example, multiple valves 320 may be installed in the first flow path 401 connected to each of a plurality of secondary batteries 100, in which case only the secondary battery 100 connected to the open valve is allowed gas to flow in and out.

[0120] The flow path 400 may include a plurality of first flow paths 401 and second flow paths 402. The plurality of first flow paths 401 are respectively connected to a plurality of third ports 230 of a plurality of secondary batteries 100 and extend in the vertical direction. The second flow paths 402 are connected to the plurality of first flow paths 401 and communicate with the outside. In this case, a plurality of valves 320 may be installed in the plurality of first flow paths 401 corresponding to them. With this configuration, the flow rate of gas flowing in and out of the plurality of first flow paths 401 can be individually controlled by the plurality of valves 320.

[0121] Meanwhile, when the flow path 400 is connected to the third port 230 of the secondary battery 100 and extends in the vertical direction, the valve 320 can be connected to any position of the flow path 400.

[0122] The secondary battery module 1100 according to embodiments of this disclosure may further include a measuring unit 330, which measures at least one of pressure and temperature for each of the plurality of secondary batteries 100. For example, the measuring unit 330 may include at least one of a thermometer, a pressure gauge, and an impact sensor. The measuring unit 330 may be mounted on the upper end of the secondary battery 100 (at... Figure 9 (as shown in the configuration); however, the measuring unit 330 may also be installed in the space portion of the housing of the secondary battery 100 or in the receiving space of the housing of the secondary battery 100 for accommodating the electrode assembly.

[0123] The secondary battery module 1100 according to embodiments of this disclosure may further include a battery management system (BMS) 500, which monitors and manages the operating state of multiple secondary batteries 100 based on at least one of pressure and temperature measured by the measurement unit 330. The battery management system 500 can be connected to the measurement unit 330 installed in the secondary battery 100 and can receive information about the state of the secondary battery 100 from the measurement unit 330. Therefore, the battery management system 500 can estimate the state of the secondary batteries 100 installed in the secondary battery module 1100 and can use the estimated state information to protect the multiple secondary batteries 100 from operation outside the safe operating area. Operation outside the safe operating area occurs when overcurrent, overvoltage (during charging), overtemperature, low temperature, overvoltage, ground fault, or leakage current is detected.

[0124] The battery management system 500 can control the flow rate of gas passing through the flow path 400 based on at least one of the measured pressure and temperature. The battery management system 500 can control the opening and closing of the valve 320 installed in the flow path 400, thereby controlling the gas flow rate.

[0125] Specifically, when the secondary battery 100 overheats or its internal pressure increases due to an abnormal event, the measuring unit 330 can send information such as pressure and temperature measured by the measuring unit 330 to the battery management system 500. When the measured value exceeds a predetermined threshold, the battery management system 500 can open the valve 320 connected to the secondary battery 100 from which the measured value is obtained. When the valve 320 is open, gas can be injected into the space formed between the inner and outer walls of the casing of the secondary battery 100, or gas can be discharged from the space to ensure the safety of the secondary battery 100.

[0126] Reference Figure 10 The battery management system 500 of the secondary battery module 1100 can control the flow rate of liquid supplied from multiple liquid supply tanks 300 to the housing based on at least one of the measured pressure and temperature.

[0127] The battery management system 500 can control the flow rate of liquid flowing into and out of the liquid supply tank 300 based on at least one of the measured pressure and temperature. For example, the battery management system 500 can control the opening and closing of the lift 310 installed in the liquid supply tank 300 (e.g., the position of the lift 310 can be controlled), thereby controlling the flow rate of the liquid.

[0128] Specifically, when the secondary battery 100 overheats or its internal pressure increases due to an abnormal event, the measuring unit 330 can send information such as pressure and temperature measured by the measuring unit 330 to the battery management system 500. When the measured value exceeds a threshold, the battery management system 500 can move the lift 310 connected to the secondary battery 100 from which the measured value is obtained. When the lift 310 rises, liquid can be injected into the space formed between the inner and outer walls of the casing of the secondary battery 100; when the lift 310 falls, liquid can be discharged from the space formed between the inner and outer walls of the casing of the secondary battery 100, thereby controlling the internal temperature, pressure, etc. of the secondary battery 100.

[0129] Other content and references related to Battery Management System 500 Figure 9 The same as described above.

[0130] When rechargeable batteries are used for extended periods, they may expand during charging and discharging. This expansion can lead to safety risks, such as reduced battery life and casing rupture. Furthermore, when exposed to high temperatures, thermal runaway can occur, causing a rapid rise in internal temperature. Specifically, within a rechargeable battery module, high-temperature gases and debris generated by thermal runaway can propagate to adjacent batteries and cause severe damage to the entire module.

[0131] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, by forming a space within the casing of the secondary battery where liquids and gases can flow in and out to regulate the internal pressure of the secondary battery, expansion during charging and discharging can be prevented, thereby improving the lifespan characteristics of the secondary battery.

[0132] Furthermore, according to some embodiments of this disclosure, by controlling the temperature of the secondary battery through liquids and gases flowing into and out of the housing space, heat transfer to adjacent secondary batteries in the secondary battery module can be prevented, and thermal runaway can be prevented.

[0133] Although the present disclosure has been described above with respect to embodiments thereof, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Various modifications and variations may be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit of the present disclosure and the equivalents of the appended claims.

[0134] Exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, and although specific terminology has been used, it is used and interpreted in a general and descriptive sense only, and not for limiting purposes. In some instances, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art at the time of filing this application that features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with particular embodiments may be used alone or in combination with features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with other embodiments, unless otherwise specifically indicated. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A secondary battery, comprising: Electrode assembly; A housing that accommodates the electrode assembly, the housing including an opening on at least one side; as well as Cover plate, sealing the opening. The housing includes: Inner wall; The outer wall is spaced apart from and surrounds the inner wall; The space between the inner wall and the outer wall; and A connecting wall connects the inner wall and the outer wall, and the connecting wall seals the upper end of the space portion.

2. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein, The housing includes: The first port through which liquid flows in and out; and The second port allows gas to flow in and out.

3. The secondary battery according to claim 2, wherein, Each of the inner wall and the outer wall includes a bottom surface and four side surfaces extending vertically from the bottom surface.

4. The secondary battery according to claim 3, wherein, The first port is on one of the four side surfaces of the outer wall.

5. The secondary battery according to claim 3, wherein, The first port is located on the bottom surface of the outer wall.

6. The secondary battery according to claim 3, wherein, The second port is on the connecting wall.

7. The secondary battery according to claim 3, wherein, The cover plate includes a third port connected to the second port.

8. The secondary battery according to claim 1, wherein, The cover plate is in face-to-face contact with the connecting wall.

9. A secondary battery module, comprising: Multiple secondary batteries; Multiple liquid supply tanks are configured to supply liquid to the housings of the multiple secondary batteries respectively; as well as The flow paths are respectively connected to the casings of the plurality of secondary batteries, and the flow paths are in communication with the outside. Each of the plurality of secondary batteries includes: Electrode assembly; The housing, which accommodates the electrode assembly, includes an opening on at least one side; and Cover plate, sealing the opening, and The housing includes: Inner wall; The outer wall is spaced apart from and surrounds the inner wall; The space portion, between the inner wall and the outer wall; and A connecting wall connects the inner wall and the outer wall, and the connecting wall seals the upper end of the space portion.

10. The secondary battery module according to claim 9, wherein, The housing of each of the plurality of secondary batteries includes: A first port is connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of liquid supply tanks, through which liquid flows in and out; and The second port is connected to the flow path, through which gas flows in and out.

11. The secondary battery module according to claim 10, wherein, The cover plate includes a third port connected to the second port.

12. The secondary battery module according to claim 11, wherein, The flow path is connected to the third port.

13. The secondary battery module according to claim 12, further comprising a sealing member between the flow path and the third port.

14. The secondary battery module according to claim 9, wherein, The bottom surface of the casing of each of the plurality of secondary batteries is at a level lower than the upper surface of the corresponding one of the plurality of liquid supply tanks.

15. The secondary battery module according to claim 9, wherein: The plurality of liquid supply tanks are located at the lower ends of the plurality of secondary batteries, and Each of the plurality of liquid supply tanks includes a lifter that controls the flow rate of the liquid supplied to the housing.

16. The secondary battery module according to claim 9, further comprising a valve that controls the flow rate of gas supplied through the flow path.

17. The secondary battery module of claim 9, further comprising a measuring unit configured to measure at least one of pressure and temperature of each of the plurality of secondary batteries.

18. The secondary battery module according to claim 17, further comprising a battery management system, the battery management system monitoring and managing the operating status of the plurality of secondary batteries based on at least one of the pressure and the temperature measured by the measuring unit.

19. The secondary battery module according to claim 18, wherein, The battery management system controls the flow rate of the liquid supplied from the plurality of liquid supply tanks to the housing based on at least one of the pressure and the temperature measured by the measuring unit.

20. The secondary battery module according to claim 18, wherein, The battery management system controls the flow rate of gas through the flow path based on at least one of the pressure and the temperature measured by the measuring unit.

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