Battery Components

Abstract

A battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cell array, a busbar plate, and a busbar frame. The cell array may include a plurality of cell units arranged along a first direction. Each of the plurality of cell units may include a terminal portion projecting along a second direction, which intersects the first direction. The busbar plate may include an insertion slit for inserting the terminal portion. The insertion slit may have a slit shape extending along a third direction, which intersects both the first and second directions. The busbar frame may be disposed between the busbar plate and the cell array. The busbar frame may include an insertion hole. The insertion hole may overlap the insertion slit along the second direction and accommodate at least a portion of the terminal portion. According to the present disclosure, the stability and lifespan of the battery assembly can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery assembly. Background Technology

[0002] The battery assembly may include a cell array and a busbar assembly connected to the cell array, the cell array including a plurality of cell units. The busbar assembly may include a busbar plate and a busbar frame, the busbar plate including an insertion slot for inserting a terminal portion of each of the plurality of cell units, the busbar frame supporting (or securing) the busbar plate.

[0003] During the manufacturing process of the battery assembly, the terminal portion can be welded to one side of the busbar plate adjacent to the insertion slit after being inserted into the insertion slit. In this case, only by accurately determining the welding position of the terminal portion (i.e., the welding position) can the reliability of the welding joint be ensured, and the stability and lifespan of the battery assembly be improved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical problems to be solved

[0005] According to one aspect, the purpose of this disclosure is to improve the stability of battery modules.

[0006] According to another aspect, the purpose of this disclosure is to improve the lifespan of battery modules.

[0007] On the other hand, this disclosure can be widely applied to the fields of electric vehicles, battery charging stations, energy storage systems (ESS), and other green technologies that utilize batteries, such as solar power and wind power. Furthermore, this disclosure can be used for eco-friendly mobility tools, including electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0008] Technical solution

[0009] The battery assembly according to this disclosure may include: a cell array including a plurality of cell units arranged along a first direction, each of the plurality of cell units including a terminal portion projecting along a second direction, the second direction intersecting the first direction; a busbar plate including an insertion slit for insertion of the terminal portion, the insertion slit having a slit shape extending along a third direction, the third direction intersecting both the first direction and the second direction; and a busbar frame disposed between the busbar plate and the cell array, including an insertion hole overlapping the insertion slit along the second direction and accommodating at least a portion of the terminal portion. The busbar plate may include: an exposure hole spaced apart from the insertion slit and extending through the busbar plate along the second direction, exposing a portion of the busbar frame. Based on a shape on a plane defined by the first direction and the third direction, at least a portion of the edge of the exposure hole may be a line shape parallel to the third direction.

[0010] In one embodiment, the exposure hole may have a quadrilateral shape with each side parallel to either the first direction or the third direction, based on the shape on the plane defined by the first direction and the third direction.

[0011] In one embodiment, the busbar plate may further include a fastening hole extending through the busbar plate along the second direction. The busbar frame may further include a coupling member inserted into the fastening hole to secure the busbar plate.

[0012] In one embodiment, the bonding component may include a heat-fusion component heat-fused to one side of the busbar.

[0013] In one embodiment, the exposure hole may be spaced apart from both the fastening hole and the connecting member.

[0014] In one embodiment, the width of the insertion slit in the first direction may be smaller than the width of the insertion hole in the first direction.

[0015] In one embodiment, the maximum width of the exposure hole in the first direction may be greater than the width of the insertion slit in the first direction.

[0016] In one embodiment, the busbar may further include a bend that bends in a manner protruding in the second direction. The bend may include a guide groove communicating with one end of the insertion slit and extending through the bend in the second direction.

[0017] In one embodiment, the maximum width of the guide groove in the first direction may be greater than the width of the insertion slit in the first direction.

[0018] In one embodiment, the width of the guide groove in the first direction may gradually decrease as it approaches one end of the insertion slit.

[0019] In one embodiment, the width of the insertion slit in the first direction may be more than 100% and less than 105% of the width of the terminal portion in the first direction.

[0020] In one embodiment, the terminal portion may be welded to the busbar frame in a region adjacent to the insertion slit.

[0021] In one embodiment, the busbar may further include a recessed portion, which is recessed from one side of the busbar toward the insertion slit, based on the shape on a plane defined by the first direction and the third direction.

[0022] In one embodiment, based on the shape on the plane defined by the first direction and the third direction, at least a portion of the edge of the recess may be parallel to the third direction.

[0023] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the busbar frame that overlaps with the recess along the second direction can be exposed through the recess.

[0024] Technical effect

[0025] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a battery assembly with improved stability can be provided.

[0026] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, a battery assembly with improved lifespan can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view for illustrating a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of a method for connecting a busbar assembly to a single-unit array;

[0029] Figure 3 For the purpose of illustration Figure 2 A three-dimensional diagram showing the method of connecting to the busbar assembly of a single-unit array;

[0030] Figure 4 A diagram illustrating the appearance of a busbar plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the front;

[0031] Figure 5 A diagram illustrating the appearance of a busbar plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the side;

[0032] Figure 6 A diagram illustrating the appearance of a busbar plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the rear.

[0033] Figure 7 For the purpose of illustration, including Figures 4 to 6 A figure showing an embodiment of a busbar assembly;

[0034] Figure 8 From Figure 7 The schematic diagram of the busbar assembly omits the busbar plate;

[0035] Figure 9 For illustrating the connection of a single-unit array to Figure 7 A diagram showing what the busbar component looks like;

[0036] Figure 10 To show in magnified form Figure 9 A map of a region;

[0037] Figure 11 A diagram showing the appearance of a busbar according to another embodiment of the present disclosure from the front;

[0038] Figure 12 For the purpose of illustration, including Figure 11 A figure shows an embodiment of a busbar assembly of a busbar plate.

[0039] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0040] 1: Battery Components

[0041] 10: Single-unit array

[0042] 100: Battery cell

[0043] 110: Ontology Department

[0044] 120: Terminal section

[0045] 130: Reverse terminal section

[0046] BSB: Busbar Component

[0047] BSF: Busbar Frame

[0048] BSP: Busbar

[0049] SL: Insertion Slit

[0050] IH: Insertion Hole

[0051] BDP: Bend

[0052] GH: Guide groove

[0053] CH: Fastening hole

[0054] CNP: Connecting component Detailed Implementation

[0055] The present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this is merely exemplary and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein.

[0056] In the following text, Figure 1 As shown, the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 are defined.

[0057] The first direction DR1 can be the direction in which multiple battery cells 100 are stacked. In one embodiment, the first direction DR1 can be referred to as the "stack direction".

[0058] The second direction DR2 can be a direction that intersects (or is perpendicular to) the first direction DR1. Each of the plurality of battery cells 100 may include a terminal portion 120, and the second direction DR2 can be the protruding direction of the terminal portion 120. In one embodiment, the second direction DR2 may be referred to as the "protruding direction".

[0059] Each of the plurality of battery cells 100 may include a reverse terminal portion 130 that protrudes in the opposite direction to the protrusion direction of the terminal portion 120 (i.e., the second direction DR2). In one embodiment, the opposite direction to the second direction DR2 may be referred to as the "reverse protrusion direction".

[0060] The third direction DR3 can be a direction that intersects (or is perpendicular to) the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2, respectively. In one embodiment, the third direction DR3 can be the opposite direction of gravity, and can be referred to as the "height direction".

[0061] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view for illustrating a battery assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Reference Figure 1 The battery assembly 1 may include a cell array 10, a busbar plate (BSP), and a busbar frame (BSF).

[0063] The cell array 10 may include a plurality of cell units 100 arranged along a first direction DR1. Each of the plurality of cell units 100 may include a terminal portion 120 that protrudes along a second direction DR2 that intersects the first direction DR1.

[0064] The busbar plate (BSP) may include an insertion slit SL for inserting a terminal portion 120. The insertion slit SL may have a slit shape extending along a third direction DR3 that intersects a first direction DR1 and a second direction DR2, respectively.

[0065] A busbar frame (BSF) may be disposed between the busbar plate (BSP) and the unit array 10. The busbar frame (BSF) may include an insertion hole (IH). The insertion hole (IH) may overlap with the insertion slit (SL) along the second direction (DR2) and may accommodate at least a portion of the terminal portion 120.

[0066] In one embodiment, the busbar plate (BSP) may include an exposure hole (EH) (refer to...) Figure 4 Exposed port EH (refer to) Figure 4 It can be spaced apart from the insertion slit SL and penetrate the busbar plate BSP along the second direction DR2 to expose a portion of the busbar frame BSF.

[0067] In one embodiment, the exposed hole EH (referencing) is defined based on the shape on the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3. Figure 4 At least a portion of the edge of the line can be a line shape parallel to the third direction DR3.

[0068] Each of the plurality of battery cells 100 may utilize an oxidation / reduction reaction to convert chemical energy into electrical energy (or, convert electrical energy into chemical energy). The plurality of battery cells 100 may be arranged (or stacked) along a first direction DR1. In one embodiment, each of the plurality of battery cells 100 may include a body portion 110, a terminal portion 120, and a reverse terminal portion 130.

[0069] The body portion 110 can store electrical energy or supply the stored electrical energy to the outside. In one embodiment, the body portion 110 may include one or more positive electrode plates and one or more negative electrode plates. The one or more positive electrode plates and the one or more negative electrode plates may be alternately arranged (or stacked) along a first direction DR1 (e.g., ... positive electrode plate / negative electrode plate / positive electrode plate / negative electrode plate ...). In one embodiment, the body portion 110 may further include a membrane disposed between the positive electrode plate and the negative electrode plate, and / or an electrolyte that provides a migration path for carriers (e.g., electrons, holes, and / or lithium ions).

[0070] Terminal portion 120 can protrude from body portion 110 along the second direction DR2. Reverse terminal portion 130 can protrude from body portion 110 in the opposite direction of the second direction DR2. Terminal portion 120 and reverse terminal portion 130 can be electrically connected to one or more positive plates and one or more negative plates. For example, terminal portion 120 can be electrically connected to one or more positive plates, and reverse terminal portion 130 can be electrically connected to one or more negative plates. In this case, terminal portion 120 can be referred to as the "positive terminal portion," and reverse terminal portion 130 can be referred to as the "negative terminal portion." As another example, terminal portion 120 can be electrically connected to one or more negative plates, and reverse terminal portion 130 can be electrically connected to one or more positive plates. In this case, terminal portion 120 can be referred to as the "negative terminal portion," and reverse terminal portion 130 can be referred to as the "positive terminal portion." Each of terminal portion 120 and reverse terminal portion 130 can contain a material with excellent conductivity.

[0071] Each of the first busbar assembly BSB1 and the second busbar assembly BSB2 can be electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells 100 included in the cell array 10. Electrical connections between the plurality of battery cells 100 and external devices (e.g., circuits, electrodes, and / or wiring) can be achieved through the first busbar assembly BSB1 and the second busbar assembly BSB2.

[0072] The first busbar assembly BSB1 may include a first busbar plate BSP1 and a first busbar frame BSF1.

[0073] The first busbar plate BSP1 can be electrically connected to the terminal portion 120. In one embodiment, the first busbar plate BSP1 may include an insertion slit SL, into which the terminal portion 120 can be inserted to electrically connect to the first busbar plate BSP1.

[0074] A first busbar frame (BSF1) may be disposed between a first busbar plate (BSP1) and a single-unit array (SMA) 10. In one embodiment, the first busbar frame (BSF1) may include an insertion hole (IH). The insertion hole (IH) of the first busbar frame (BSF1) may overlap with the insertion slot (SL) of the first busbar plate (BSP1) along a second direction and may accommodate at least a portion of a terminal portion (120). That is, the terminal portion (120) may be inserted into the insertion slot (SL) of the first busbar plate (BSP1) through the insertion hole (IH) of the first busbar frame (BSF1).

[0075] The first busbar frame BSF1 serves to fix (or support) the first busbar plate BSP1. For example, the first busbar plate BSP1 can be fixed (or supported) to the first busbar frame BSF1 by means of a connecting component. In one embodiment, the first busbar assembly BSB1 may include a plurality of first busbar plates BSP1 arranged along a first direction DR1, and the plurality of first busbar plates BSP1 can be fixed to the first busbar frame BSF1.

[0076] The second busbar assembly BSB2 may include a second busbar plate BSP2 and a second busbar frame BSF2.

[0077] The second busbar BSP2 can be electrically connected to the reverse terminal portion 130. In one embodiment, the second busbar BSP2 may include an insertion slit SL, into which the reverse terminal portion 130 can be inserted to electrically connect to the second busbar BSP2.

[0078] The second busbar frame BSF2 may be disposed between the second busbar plate BSP2 and the unit array 10. In one embodiment, the second busbar frame BSF2 may include an insertion hole IH. The insertion hole IH of the second busbar frame BSF2 may overlap with the insertion slot SL of the second busbar plate BSP2 along the second direction DR2, and may accommodate at least a portion of the reverse terminal portion 130. That is, the reverse terminal portion 130 may be inserted into the insertion slot SL of the second busbar plate BSP2 through the insertion hole IH of the second busbar frame BSF2.

[0079] The second busbar frame BSF2 can serve to fix (or support) the second busbar plate BSP2. For example, the second busbar plate BSP2 can be fixed (or supported) to the second busbar frame BSF2 by means of a connecting component. In one embodiment, the second busbar assembly BSB2 may include a plurality of second busbar plates BSP2 arranged along a first direction DR1, and the plurality of second busbar plates BSP2 can be fixed to the second busbar frame BSF2.

[0080] In one embodiment, the battery assembly 1 may further include a sensing circuit SCC. The sensing circuit SCC can be electrically connected to a plurality of battery cells 100. For example, the sensing circuit SCC may include a first sensing terminal SST1 and a second sensing terminal SST2. The first sensing terminal SST1 can electrically connect the sensing circuit SCC to a first busbar BSP1, thereby allowing the sensing circuit SCC to be electrically connected to the terminal portions 120 of each of the plurality of battery cells 100. The second sensing terminal SST2 can electrically connect the sensing circuit SCC to a second busbar BSP2, thereby allowing the sensing circuit SCC to be electrically connected to the reverse terminal portions 130 of each of the plurality of battery cells 100.

[0081] In one embodiment, the sensing circuit SCC can measure the voltage (or current) applied to a plurality of battery cells 100. The sensing circuit SCC can measure the voltage (or current) applied to the plurality of battery cells 100, store the measured voltage (or current) values ​​(or current values), and transmit the stored voltage (or current) values ​​to an external device. In one embodiment, the sensing circuit SCC can measure the temperature of the plurality of battery cells 100. The sensing circuit SCC can measure the temperature of the plurality of battery cells 100, store the measured temperature values, and transmit the stored temperature values ​​to an external device.

[0082] In one embodiment, the sensing circuit SCC may include a first sensing circuit SCC1 and a second sensing circuit SCC2. The first sensing circuit SCC1 may extend along a second direction DR2. The second sensing circuit SCC2 may extend from each end of the first sensing circuit SCC1 along a first direction DR1 in the extension direction (i.e., the second direction DR2).

[0083] The first sensing circuit SCC1 may cover at least a portion of the plurality of battery cells 100. In one embodiment, the first sensing circuit SCC1 may cover the upper surface of at least a portion of the plurality of battery cells 100. The second sensing circuit SCC2 may be electrically connected to a component for measuring voltage and / or temperature.

[0084] In one embodiment, the first sensing circuit SCC1 and the second sensing circuit SCC2 can be flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs). In another embodiment, the first sensing circuit SCC1 and the second sensing circuit SCC2 can be integrated into one unit.

[0085] The sensing cover SSC supports the sensing circuit SCC. The sensing circuit SCC is supported by being attached to the sensing cover SSC, thereby distributing the stress applied to the sensing circuit SCC. In one embodiment, the sensing cover SSC may include multiple openings for releasing gas.

[0086] In one embodiment, the first busbar assembly BSB1 and the second busbar assembly BSB2 may be substantially symmetrical to each other, separated by a single-unit array 10. Therefore, the second busbar assembly BSB2 can be described in substantially the same (or similar) manner as the first busbar assembly BSB1. Thus, in the following description, the first busbar assembly BSB1 will be used as a reference, and the description of the first busbar assembly BSB1 can also be applied substantially in the same (or similar) manner to the second busbar assembly BSB2.

[0087] In the following text, the first busbar assembly BSB1 may be referred to as "busbar assembly BSB", the first busbar plate BSP1 may be referred to as "busbar plate BSP", and the first busbar frame BSF1 may be referred to as "busbar frame BSF".

[0088] Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of a method for connecting a busbar assembly to a single-unit array. Figure 3 For the purpose of illustration Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the method connecting to the busbar assembly of the single-unit array.

[0089] Reference Figure 2 This schematically illustrates an embodiment of a method for connecting the busbar assembly BSB and the unit array 10 by fixing the terminal portion 120 to the insertion slot SL of the busbar frame BSF. Figure 2 As shown, in order to connect the busbar assembly BSB and the single-unit array 10, the busbar assembly BSB can be moved along the third direction DR3 below the single-unit array 10.

[0090] Reference Figure 3 ,according to Figure 2 In this method, the busbar assembly BSB can be connected to the cell array 10. In this case, the terminal portion 120 of each of the plurality of cell 100 can be inserted into the insertion slit SL of the busbar plate BSP through the insertion hole IH of the busbar frame BSF.

[0091] In one embodiment, the cell array 10 may further include a heat insulation component 200. The heat insulation component 200 may be disposed between two adjacent cell cells 100 in the plurality of cell cells 100. The heat insulation component 200 can block heat diffusion in the event of thermal runaway in a cell cell 100.

[0092] In one embodiment, the cell array 10 may further include an end plate 300. The end plate 300 may include a first end plate 310 and a second end plate 320. The first end plate 310 and the second end plate 320 may be spaced apart by a plurality of cell 100 and face each other.

[0093] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the appearance of a busbar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the front. Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the appearance of a busbar plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the side. Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the appearance of a busbar plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the rear.

[0094] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 6 The busbar plate (BSP) may include an insertion slit (SL). See reference [reference needed]. Figure 1As described, the terminal portion 120 can be secured by insertion into the insertion slit SL. The insertion slit SL may have a slit shape extending along a third direction DR3.

[0095] In one embodiment, the insertion slit SL may include a first insertion slit SL1 and a second insertion slit SL2. The first insertion slit SL1 and the second insertion slit SL2 are spaced apart from each other along a first direction DR1. The first insertion slit SL1 may be an insertion slit for inserting the terminal portion 120 of any one of the plurality of battery cells 100. The second insertion slit SL2 may be an insertion slit for inserting the terminal portion 120 of another battery cell 100 adjacent to the stated battery cell 100.

[0096] In one embodiment, the width of the insertion slit SL in the first direction DR1 can be more than 100% and less than 105% of the width of the terminal portion 120 in the first direction DR1. As described above, the insertion slit SL can have a slit shape suitable for insertion and fixation of the terminal portion 120.

[0097] In one embodiment, the busbar plate BSP may include an exposure hole EH. The exposure hole EH may be spaced apart from the insertion slit SL and may extend through the busbar plate BSP along the second direction DR2. In one embodiment, the relative position of the insertion slit SL can be determined with reference to the exposure hole EH. For this purpose, reference will be made to... Figure 7 Please provide a detailed explanation.

[0098] In one embodiment, the exposure hole EH may include a first exposure hole EH1 and a second exposure hole EH2. The first exposure hole EH1 and the second exposure hole EH2 may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the first exposure hole EH1 and the second exposure hole EH2 may be spaced apart from each other along a first direction DR1. Compared to the second exposure hole EH2, the first exposure hole EH1 may be adjacent to the first insertion slit SL1. Compared to the first exposure hole EH1, the second exposure hole EH2 may be adjacent to the second insertion slit SL2.

[0099] In one embodiment, the busbar plate BSP may further include a fastening hole CH. The fastening hole CH may be spaced apart from the insertion slit SL and the exposure hole EH, respectively, and may extend through the busbar plate BSP along the second direction DR. In one embodiment, the busbar plate BSP can be fixed to the busbar frame BSF via the fastening hole CH. For this, see [reference needed]. Figure 7 and Figure 8 Please provide a detailed explanation.

[0100] In one embodiment, the fastening hole CH may include a first fastening hole CH1, a second fastening hole CH2, and a third fastening hole CH3. The first fastening hole CH1, the second fastening hole CH2, and the third fastening hole CH3 may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the first fastening hole CH1, the second fastening hole CH2, and the third fastening hole CH3 may be spaced apart from each other along a third direction DR3.

[0101] In one embodiment, the busbar plate BSP may further include a curved portion BDP that bends in a manner projecting toward a second direction DR2. The curved portion BDP may further include a guide groove GH. The guide groove GH may communicate with one end of the insertion slit SL and extend through the curved portion BDP along the second direction DR2.

[0102] In one embodiment, the curved portion BDP may include a first curved portion BDP1 and a second curved portion BDP2. The first curved portion BDP1 may include a first guide groove GH1, and the second curved portion BDP2 may include a second guide groove GH2. The first guide groove GH1 may be connected to one end of the first insertion slit SL1, and the second guide groove GH2 may be connected to one end of the second insertion slit SL2.

[0103] In one embodiment, the maximum width of the guide groove GH in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the width of the insertion slit SL in the first direction DR1. (See reference...) Figure 2 and Figure 3 As explained, by moving the busbar assembly BSB relative to the individual unit array 10 along the third direction DR3, the busbar assembly BSB and the individual unit array 10 can be connected. In this case, the terminal portion 120 can first be inserted into the guide groove GH and guided along the shape of the guide groove GH into the insertion slit SL, thereby allowing the terminal portion 120 to be inserted and fixed in the insertion slit SL. In other words, the guide groove GH can guide the terminal portion 120, thereby ensuring that the terminal portion 120 is inserted into the correct position (i.e., the insertion slit SL).

[0104] In the foregoing embodiment, the width of the guide groove GH in the first direction DR1 can gradually decrease as it approaches one end of the insertion slit SL. That is, the width of the guide groove GH in the first direction DR1 can gradually decrease in the opposite direction to the third direction DR3. With the guide groove GH constructed as described above, in implementing the reference... Figure 2 and Figure 3 When describing the connection method between the busbar assembly BSB and the unit array 10, the terminal portion 120 can be effectively guided to be inserted more accurately into the insertion slit SL.

[0105] Figure 7 For the purpose of illustration, including Figures 4 to 6 A figure shows an embodiment of a busbar assembly of a busbar plate. Figure 8 From Figure 7 The schematic diagram of the busbar assembly omits the busbar plate.

[0106] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The busbar assembly BSB may include a busbar frame BSF and a busbar plate BSP fixed to the busbar frame BSF.

[0107] For reference Figure 3 As described, with the busbar assembly BSB connected to the unit array 10, the terminal portion 120 can be inserted into and secured to the insertion slit SL. In this case, in one embodiment, the terminal portion 120 can be welded to the busbar frame BSF in the area adjacent to the insertion slit SL.

[0108] In the foregoing embodiments, in order to weld the terminal portion 120 to the busbar frame BSF, it is necessary to accurately determine the position (i.e., the welding position) of the insertion slit SL for inserting and fixing the terminal portion 120. In one embodiment, the image is captured using an imaging device (e.g., a camera). Figure 7 The image obtained from the busbar assembly BSB shown can be used to identify the insertion slit SL (or the terminal portion 120 inserted into the insertion slit SL) in the acquired image, and the position of the identified insertion slit SL can be determined, thereby determining the welding position.

[0109] However, the width of the insertion slit SL in the first direction DR1 may be substantially the same as (or similar to) the width of the terminal portion 120 in the first direction DR1 (for example, the width of the insertion slit SL in the first direction DR1 may be more than 100% and less than about 105% of the width of the terminal portion 120 in the first direction DR1). Therefore, it may be substantially difficult to identify the insertion slit SL (or the terminal portion 120 inserted into the insertion slit SL) in the captured image.

[0110] In this disclosure, the position of the insertion slit SL can be determined by identifying the exposed hole EH in the captured image and based on the position of the identified exposed hole EH, thereby determining the welding position. For example, during the manufacturing of the busbar frame (BSF), the insertion slit SL and the exposed hole EH can be formed at preset positions. Therefore, before acquiring the captured image, relative positional information such as the distance between the exposed hole EH and the insertion slit SL can be determined in advance. Thus, if the captured image is acquired and the position of the exposed hole EH is determined within the captured image, the position of the insertion slit SL (i.e., the welding position) can be determined using the relative positional information and based on the position of the exposed hole EH.

[0111] This is because, in the captured image, the exposure hole EH is easier to identify than the insertion slit SL. In other words, this is because the exposure hole EH, which is relatively wider on the first direction DR1, is easier to identify in the captured image compared to the insertion slit SL, which is relatively smaller in width.

[0112] In one embodiment, based on the shape on the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3, at least a portion of the edge of the exposure hole EH may have a line shape parallel to the third direction DR3. Here, because the at least a portion of the edge of the exposure hole EH has a line shape, it is easier to identify the at least a portion of the edge of the exposure hole EH in the captured image. Therefore, determining the position of the insertion slit SL based on the exposure hole EH becomes easier.

[0113] In one embodiment, based on the shape on the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3, the exposure hole EH may have a quadrilateral shape with each side parallel to the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3, respectively. As described above, when the exposure hole EH has a quadrilateral shape, the edges of the exposure hole EH can be more easily identified in the captured image.

[0114] In one embodiment, the maximum width of the exposure hole EH in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the width of the insertion slit SL in the first direction DR1. Therefore, in the captured image, the exposure hole EH may be more easily identified than the insertion slit SL.

[0115] In one embodiment, the busbar plate BSP may include a fastening hole CH extending through the busbar plate BSP along a second direction DR2, and the busbar frame BSF may include a coupling member CNP inserted into the fastening hole CH to secure the busbar plate BSP. In the aforementioned embodiment, the coupling member CNP may include a heat-fused member heat-fused to one side of the busbar plate BSP.

[0116] For example, the connecting component CNP may include a first connecting component CNP1, a second connecting component CNP2, and a third connecting component CNP3. The first connecting component CNP1 can be inserted into a first fastening hole CH1, the second connecting component CNP2 can be inserted into a second fastening hole CH2, and the third connecting component CNP3 can be inserted into a third fastening hole CH3. In one embodiment, each of the first connecting component CNP1 and the second connecting component CNP2 can be a heat-fused component heat-fused to one side of the busbar plate BSP. In one embodiment, the third connecting component CNP3 can be a bolt inserted into the third fastening hole CH3, or a protrusion extending from the busbar frame BSF along the second direction DR2 and inserted into the third fastening hole CH3. In this case, the exposed hole EH can be spaced apart from the fastening hole CH and the connecting component CNP, respectively.

[0117] like Figure 8 As shown, the busbar frame (BSF) may include an insertion hole (IH). For example... Figure 7 As shown, the insertion hole IH can overlap with the insertion slit SL along the second direction DR2. In one embodiment, the insertion hole IH may include a first insertion hole IH1 and a second insertion hole IH2. The first insertion hole IH1 can overlap with the first insertion slit SL1 along the second direction DR2. The second insertion hole IH2 can overlap with the second insertion slit SL2 along the second direction DR2.

[0118] In one embodiment, the width of the insertion slit SL in the first direction DR1 may be smaller than the width of the insertion hole IH in the first direction DR1. That is, taking into account the insertion allowance of the terminal portion 120, the width of the insertion hole IH in the first direction DR1 may be greater than the width of the terminal portion 120 in the first direction DR1. In order to fix the terminal portion 120, the width of the insertion slit SL in the first direction DR1 may be substantially the same as (or similar to) the width of the terminal portion 120 in the first direction DR1.

[0119] Figure 9 For illustrating the connection of a single-unit array to Figure 7 A diagram showing what a busbar component looks like. Figure 10 To show in magnified form Figure 9 A map of a region.

[0120] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 The terminal portion 120 can be inserted through the insertion hole IH and fixed in the insertion slit SL. In this case, during the insertion process of the terminal portion 120 (for example: refer to...), Figure 2 In the described method, the terminal portion 120 can be guided by the guide groove GH. As the terminal portion 120 is guided by the guide groove GH, the terminal portion 120 can be more accurately inserted into the relatively narrow insertion slit SL in the first direction DR1.

[0121] The following will refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 A busbar according to another embodiment of this disclosure will be described. Hereinafter, the description will primarily focus on the busbar with reference to... Figures 1 to 10 The differences between the described busbars (BSPs) will be explained, and the omitted content will be replaced by the preceding content.

[0122] Figure 11 A diagram showing the appearance of a busbar according to another embodiment of the present disclosure from the front. Figure 12 For the purpose of illustration, including Figure 11 A figure shows an embodiment of a busbar assembly of a busbar plate.

[0123] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 The busbar plate (BSP) may include a recess (DP). The recess (DP) may be recessed from one side of the busbar plate (BSP) toward the insertion slit (SL), based on a shape on a plane defined by a first direction (DR1) and a third direction (DR3). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the busbar frame (BSF) overlapping the recess (DP) along the second direction (DR2) may be exposed through the recess (DP).

[0124] The recessed portion DP can serve a substantially the same (or similar) function as the exposed hole EH. That is, the location of the insertion slit SL (i.e., the welding position) can be easily determined by utilizing the relatively easily identifiable recessed portion DP in the captured image.

[0125] In one embodiment, based on the shape on the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3, at least a portion of the edge of the recess DP may be parallel to the third direction DR3. Here, since the at least portion of the recess DP has a linear shape, the at least portion of the edge of the recess DP can be more easily identified in the captured image. Therefore, determining the position of the insertion slit SL based on the recess DP becomes easier.

[0126] In one embodiment, the recessed portion DP may include a first recessed portion DP1 and a second recessed portion DP2. The first recessed portion DP1 and the second recessed portion DP2 may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the first recessed portion DP1 and the second recessed portion DP2 may be spaced apart from each other along a first direction DR1. The first recessed portion DP1 may be recessed from the side adjacent to the first insertion slot SL1 of the busbar plate BSP toward the first insertion slot SL1. The second recessed portion DP2 may be recessed from the side adjacent to the second insertion slot SL2 of the busbar plate BSP toward the second insertion slot SL2.

[0127] This disclosure can be implemented in various forms and its scope is not limited to the foregoing embodiments. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes the structural elements of the claims of this disclosure, it should be considered to fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A battery assembly, comprising: A cell array includes a plurality of battery cells arranged along a first direction, each of the plurality of battery cells including a terminal portion protruding along a second direction, the second direction intersecting the first direction; A busbar includes an insertion slit for inserting the terminal portion, the insertion slit having a slit shape extending along a third direction, the third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction respectively; as well as A busbar frame, disposed between the busbar plate and the unit array, includes an insertion hole that overlaps with the insertion slit along the second direction and accommodates at least a portion of the terminal portion. The busbar includes: An exposure hole, spaced apart from the insertion slit and extending through the busbar plate in the second direction, exposes a portion of the busbar frame. Based on the shape on the plane defined by the first direction and the third direction, at least a portion of the edge of the exposed hole is in the shape of a line parallel to the third direction.

2. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein: Based on the shape on the plane defined by the first direction and the third direction, the exposure hole has a quadrilateral shape with each side parallel to either the first direction or the third direction.

3. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The busbar also includes: Fastening holes extend through the manifold plate along the second direction. The busbar frame also includes: The connecting component is inserted into the fastening hole to secure the busbar plate.

4. The battery assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The connecting component includes: A heat-fused component is heat-fused to one side of the busbar.

5. The battery assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The exposure hole is spaced apart from the fastening hole and the connecting component, respectively.

6. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The width of the insertion slit in the first direction is less than the width of the insertion hole in the first direction.

7. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The maximum width of the exposure hole in the first direction is greater than the width of the insertion slit in the first direction.

8. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The busbar also includes: The curved portion bends in a manner that protrudes in the second direction. The curved portion includes: The guide groove communicates with one end of the insertion slit and extends through the bend in the second direction.

9. The battery assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The maximum width of the guide groove in the first direction is greater than the width of the insertion slit in the first direction.

10. The battery assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The width of the guide groove in the first direction gradually decreases as it approaches one end of the insertion slit.

11. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The width of the insertion slit in the first direction is more than 100% and less than 105% of the width of the terminal portion in the first direction.

12. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The terminal portion is welded to the busbar frame in the region adjacent to the insertion slit.

13. The battery assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The busbar also includes: The recessed portion is recessed from one side of the busbar towards the insertion slit, based on the shape on the plane defined by the first direction and the third direction.

14. The battery assembly of claim 13, wherein: Based on the shape on the plane defined by the first direction and the third direction, at least a portion of the edge of the recess is parallel to the third direction.

15. The battery assembly according to claim 13, wherein: At least a portion of the busbar frame that overlaps with the recess along the second direction is exposed through the recess.

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