Battery cell assembly and battery pack comprising a battery cell assembly

Abstract

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present application, a battery cell assembly can be provided. The battery cell assembly includes a plurality of battery cells, a barrier pad positioned between the plurality of battery cells, and an adhesive layer in contact with the barrier pad and disposed below the plurality of battery cells, wherein the adhesive layer can be configured to increase a distance between the plurality of battery cells when a temperature increases from a first temperature to a second temperature that is higher than the first temperature.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery cell assembly and a battery pack including the battery cell assembly.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0169390, filed on November 25, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. They are widely used as a power source for various wireless devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, due to improvements in energy density and economies of scale, the manufacturing cost per unit capacity of secondary batteries has significantly decreased, and the driving range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has increased to a level comparable to that of fuel-powered vehicles. As a result, the primary use of secondary batteries is shifting from mobile devices to mobility applications.

[0004] The technological trend in the development of secondary batteries for transportation applications is to improve energy density and safety. Secondary batteries are crucial for the safety of transportation vehicles because they are directly related to passenger lives. In the event of thermal runaway, the safety of secondary batteries can be achieved through mechanical robustness, reliable electrical insulation, and delays in heat transfer. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] The technical objective of this disclosure is to provide a battery cell assembly with improved performance and reliability.

[0007] The technical objective of this disclosure is to provide a battery cell assembly with enhanced safety.

[0008] The technical objective of this disclosure is to provide a battery pack with improved performance and reliability.

[0009] The technical objective of this disclosure is to provide a battery pack with enhanced safety.

[0010] Technical solution

[0011] To address the aforementioned technical problems, a battery cell assembly is provided according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. The battery cell assembly may include: a plurality of battery cells; a barrier pad located between the plurality of battery cells; and an adhesive layer contacting the barrier pad below the plurality of battery cells, wherein the adhesive layer is configured to increase the distance between the plurality of battery cells when the temperature rises from a first temperature to a second temperature higher than the first temperature.

[0012] The barrier pad can be configured to expand in volume when the temperature rises from the first temperature to the second temperature, thereby increasing the distance between the plurality of battery cells.

[0013] As the barrier pad expands in volume, the adhesive layer in contact with the barrier pad can also be configured to expand.

[0014] The adhesive layer is elastic, allowing its shape to change under external force.

[0015] The adhesive layer can be a silicone-based resin.

[0016] The plurality of battery cells may include a first battery cell and a second battery cell arranged along a first direction. The adhesive layer may include a first point overlapping the first battery cell in a second direction intersecting the first direction and a second point overlapping the second battery cell in the second direction. At the first temperature, the battery cell assembly has a first distance in the first direction between the first point and the second point. At the second temperature, the battery cell assembly has a second distance in the first direction between the first point and the second point, and the second distance may be greater than the first distance.

[0017] The plurality of battery cells include a first battery cell and a second battery cell arranged along a first direction, the barrier pad is disposed between the first battery cell and the second battery cell, and the first thickness of the barrier pad in the first direction at the first temperature may be less than the second thickness of the barrier pad in the first direction at the second temperature.

[0018] The first temperature is less than 90°C, and the second temperature can be equal to or greater than 90°C and equal to or less than 150°C.

[0019] To address the aforementioned problems, a battery cell assembly is provided according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. The battery cell assembly includes: a housing for accommodating a plurality of battery cells therein; the plurality of battery cells located on a bottom of the housing; a barrier pad located between the plurality of battery cells; and an adhesive layer located between the plurality of battery cells and the bottom, wherein the adhesive layer is elastic, allowing its shape to change under external force.

[0020] The adhesive layer can be configured to expand in volume when the temperature rises, thereby increasing the distance between the plurality of battery cells.

[0021] The barrier pad is configured to expand in volume when the temperature rises, thereby increasing the distance between the plurality of battery cells, and as the barrier pad expands in volume, the adhesive layer in contact with the barrier pad can also be configured to expand.

[0022] Beneficial effects

[0023] According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a battery cell assembly may include a barrier pad disposed between multiple battery cells and an elastic adhesive layer disposed in contact with the barrier pad. Therefore, when the temperature rises due to a thermal runaway event or the like, the barrier pad expands in volume, and the shape change of the elastic adhesive layer increases the distance between the multiple battery cells, thereby delaying heat transfer.

[0024] According to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, a battery cell assembly with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0025] According to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, battery cell assemblies with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0026] According to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, a battery pack with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0027] According to exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, battery packs with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0028] The effects obtainable from the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure pertain. In other words, those skilled in the art can also derive unexpected effects from practicing the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a battery cell in a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 3 This is an enlarged view illustrating a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 5This is an enlarged view illustrating a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 8 This is a diagram of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted in their ordinary or dictionary sense, but rather on the basis of the inventor's ability to define the concepts of the terms in a way that best describes the principles of his disclosure, and in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical concept of this disclosure.

[0038] Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described herein and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of this disclosure, and not an exhaustive list of the technical ideas of this disclosure, and various equivalents and modifications may exist that can replace them at the time of submission.

[0039] Furthermore, in describing this disclosure, detailed descriptions of relevant known configurations or features will be omitted where such specific descriptions would obscure the nature of this disclosure.

[0040] Because embodiments of this disclosure are provided to illustrate the disclosure more fully to those skilled in the art, the shapes and dimensions of components in the drawings may be exaggerated, omitted, or shown schematically for clarity. Therefore, the size or proportion of each component does not necessarily indicate its actual size or proportion.

[0041] (First Implementation)

[0042] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell assembly 120 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view illustrating the battery cell 121 of a battery cell assembly 120 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 3 This is an enlarged view illustrating a battery cell assembly 120 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 3 This shows the first state of the battery cell assembly 120 and is Figure 1 A magnified view of region EX1 in the image.

[0045] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell assembly 120 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 The second state of the battery cell assembly 120 shown.

[0046] Figure 5 This is an enlarged view illustrating a battery cell assembly 120 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 5 This shows the second state of the battery cell assembly 120 and is Figure 4 A magnified view of region EX2 in the image.

[0047] refer to Figure 1 The battery cell assembly 120 may include a plurality of battery cells 121_1, 121_2, 121_3, 121_4, 121_5, 121_6, 121_7, 121_8, 121_9, 121_10, 121_11 and 121_12 (hereinafter referred to as 121_1 to 121_12).

[0048] In one embodiment, a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 may be arranged along a first direction D1. The plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 may be joined, for example, by an adhesive.

[0049] In this embodiment, the barrier pad 140 can be disposed between a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12. Specifically, the barrier pad 140 can be disposed between two adjacent battery cells 121_1 to 121_12. The barrier pad 140 can overlap with the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 in the first direction D1.

[0050] In this embodiment, the adhesive layer 130 may be disposed below the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12. The adhesive layer 130 may overlap with the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 in the second direction D2. The adhesive layer 130 may contact the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12. The adhesive layer 130 may overlap with the barrier pad 140 in the second direction D2. The second direction D2 may intersect with the first direction D1. The adhesive layer 130 may contact the barrier pad 140.

[0051] Let's refer to each other. Figure 2 The battery cell 121 may include a housing 121C, an electrode assembly 121EA, a positive terminal 121P, and a negative terminal 121N. The battery cell 121 may also include an electrolyte. The battery cell 121 may refer to... Figure 1Each of the multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment, battery cell 121 may include one of a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, and a pouch battery cell. The electrode assembly of the cylindrical battery cell is embedded in a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of the prismatic battery cell is embedded in a prismatic metal can. The electrode assembly of the pouch battery cell is embedded in a pouch housing including an aluminum laminate. Hereinafter, the technical concept of this disclosure is described based on the example of battery cell 121 including a pouch battery cell; however, based on the content described herein, those skilled in the art will be able to readily implement examples of battery cell 121 including one of a cylindrical or prismatic battery cell.

[0053] Electrode assembly 121EA may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator between the positive and negative electrodes. Electrode assembly 121EA may be of the wound type or the laminated type. Wound type electrode assembly 121EA may include a wound structure of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator between the positive and negative electrodes. Laminated type electrode assembly 121EA may include multiple positive electrodes, multiple negative electrodes, and multiple separators between the positive and negative electrodes stacked sequentially.

[0054] In the stacked electrode assembly 121EA, multiple positive electrodes and multiple negative electrodes can be arranged along a first direction D1. In the stacked electrode assembly 121EA, multiple positive electrodes and multiple negative electrodes can be stacked along the first direction D1.

[0055] Each of the plurality of positive electrodes of electrode assembly 121EA may include a positive electrode tab (not shown). The positive electrode tab (not shown) of each of the plurality of positive electrodes of electrode assembly 121EA may be shorted to the positive terminal 121P. The positive electrode tab (not shown) of each of the plurality of positive electrodes of electrode assembly 121EA may be soldered to the positive terminal 121P.

[0056] Each of the plurality of negative electrodes of electrode assembly 121EA may include a negative electrode tab 121NT. The negative electrode tab 121NT of each of the plurality of negative electrodes of electrode assembly 121EA may be shorted to a negative terminal 121N. The negative electrode tab 121NT of each of the plurality of negative electrodes of electrode assembly 121EA may be soldered to a negative terminal 121N.

[0057] The housing 121C may include an inner resin layer, a metal layer, and an outer resin layer. An adhesive and a corrosion-resistant layer may also be provided between the inner resin layer and the metal layer, and between the outer resin layer and the metal layer.

[0058] The inner resin layer may have thermally adhesive properties and may be referred to as a sealant layer. The inner resin layer enables the sealing of the housing 121C. The inner resin layer may include, for example, a polyolefin-based resin, such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE). The metal layer may include any one of the following: an alloy of iron, carbon, chromium, and manganese; an alloy of iron, chromium, and nickel; and aluminum. The metal layer can serve as a gas barrier. The metal layer can prevent gases from entering or exiting the housing 121C. The outer resin layer can serve as a surface protective layer. The outer resin layer may include materials with abrasion resistance and heat resistance, such as nylon resin.

[0059] The housing 121C can be provided by combining a first housing 121C1 and a second housing 121C2. In this example, the first housing 121C1 may be substantially flat. The first housing 121C1 may not include a receiving portion. The second housing 121C2 may include a receiving portion 121R. The receiving portion 121R can be formed by a bag forming process. The receiving portion 121R is a bowl-shaped portion of the second housing 121C2 formed to receive the electrode assembly 121EA.

[0060] The platform portion 121T of the second housing 121C2 can surround the receiving portion 121R. The platform portion 121T of the second housing 121C2 can be coupled to the edge of the first housing 121C1, thereby providing housing 121C.

[0061] Insulating tape 121I can be applied to the positive terminal 121P and the negative terminal 121N. The positive terminal 121P and the negative terminal 121N can protrude outside the housing 121C. The positive terminal 121P and the negative terminal 121N can protrude from the housing 121C along a third direction D3. Therefore, the voltage and current obtained from the battery cell 121 can be output through the positive terminal 121P and the negative terminal 121N. The positive terminal 121P can be a positive lead. The negative terminal 121N can be a negative lead. The third direction D3 can intersect with the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0062] The positive terminal 121P and the negative terminal 121N may be spaced apart on a third direction D3. The third direction D3 may be substantially parallel to each of the plurality of positive terminals and each of the plurality of negative terminals of the electrode assembly 121EA.

[0063] In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 130 may comprise a resilient material. For example, the adhesive layer 130 may comprise a material that remains resilient after curing. For example, the adhesive layer 130 may comprise a silicone-based resin. Because the adhesive layer 130 comprises a resilient material, the shape of the adhesive layer 130 can be changed under external forces.

[0064] In one embodiment, the volume of the barrier pad 140 can increase as the temperature rises. For example, the barrier pad 140 can be configured to expand in volume as the temperature rises, thereby increasing the distance between the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0065] Specifically, since the barrier pad 140 and the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 are configured to contact the elastic adhesive layer 130, the relative positions of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 can change when the volume of the barrier pad 140 expands. For example, the increased volume force of the barrier pad 140 that pushes the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 away from each other can act as an external force on the adhesive layer 130, thereby changing the shape of the adhesive layer 130. For example, when the barrier pad 140 expands in the first direction D1, the adhesive layer 130 can also expand in the first direction D1.

[0066] This will be referenced together. Figures 3 to 5 Detailed description.

[0067] like Figure 3 As shown, the first state can be the state where the barrier pad 140 has not yet expanded. For example, the first state can be at a first temperature. The first temperature can be less than 90°C. For example, the first state can be the normal state.

[0068] In a first state at a first temperature, the adhesive layer 130 may include a first point P1 and a second point P2 arranged along a first direction D1. The first point P1 may overlap with the fourth battery cell 121_4 in the second direction D2. The second point P2 may overlap with the fifth battery cell 121_5 in the second direction D2. The first point P1 and the second point P2 may be spaced apart in the first direction D1.

[0069] In the first state at the first temperature, the distance between the first point P1 and the second point P2 in the first direction D1 can be L1. In the first state, the thickness of the barrier pad 140 between the fourth battery cell 121_4 and the fifth battery cell 121_5 in the first direction D1 can be a first thickness T1. In the first state, the distance between the fourth battery cell 121_4 and the fifth battery cell 121_5 can be approximately T1.

[0070] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the second state can be a state in which the barrier pad 140 has expanded compared to the first state. For example, the second state can be at a second temperature. The second temperature can be higher than the first temperature. The second temperature can be equal to or greater than 90°C and equal to or less than 150°C. For example, the second state can be a thermal runaway state.

[0071] In the second state at the second temperature, the distance between the first point P1 and the second point P2 in the first direction D1 can be L2. L2 can be greater than L1. In the second state, the thickness of the barrier pad 140 between the fourth battery cell 121_4 and the fifth battery cell 121_5 in the first direction D1 can be a second thickness T2. The second thickness T2 can be greater than the first thickness T1. In the second state, the distance between the fourth battery cell 121_4 and the fifth battery cell 121_5 can be approximately T2.

[0072] Specifically, the thickness of the barrier pad 140 in the first direction D1 can increase as the temperature rises from a first temperature to a second temperature. For example, the thickness of the barrier pad 140 in the first direction D1 can increase from a first thickness T1 to a second thickness T2 as the temperature rises. In particular, since the adhesive layer 130 on which the fourth battery cell 121_4 and the fifth battery cell 121_5 are disposed is elastic, the relative positions of the first point P1 and the second point P2 can change. For example, the distance between the first point P1 and the second point P2 can increase from L1 to L2. Therefore, the distance between the fourth battery cell 121_4 and the fifth battery cell 121_5 can increase as the temperature rises from the first temperature to the second temperature. For example, the distance between the fourth battery cell 121_4 and the fifth battery cell 121_5 can increase from T1 to T2 as the temperature rises.

[0073] Since the battery cell assembly 120 according to the embodiments of this disclosure includes a barrier pad 140 disposed between a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 and an elastic adhesive layer 130 disposed in contact with therewith, the distance between the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 can be increased when the temperature of the battery cell assembly 120 rises. This allows heat transfer between the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 to be delayed.

[0074] Specifically, in the comparative example where non-elastic material is disposed below multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12, even if the volume of the barrier pad 140 increases, the relative positions of the multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 will remain fixed, and the distance between the multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 will not increase.

[0075] Return to reference Figure 1Multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 can form multiple groups. For example, battery cells 121_1, 121_2, and 121_3 can be connected in parallel to form the first group. Battery cells 121_4, 121_5, and 121_6 can be connected in parallel to form the second group. Battery cells 121_7, 121_8, and 121_9 can be connected in parallel to form the third group. Battery cells 121_10, 121_11, and 121_12 can be connected in parallel to form the fourth group. Multiple groups can also be connected in series.

[0076] The resulting connection configuration of multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 can be referred to as 3 parallel-4 series (3P-4S); however, this is merely an example and does not limit the technical concept of this disclosure in any way. The number of groups connected in series and the number of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 included in multiple groups can be determined based on the magnitude of the voltage and current to be output from the battery cell assembly 120.

[0077] The battery cell assembly 120 may also include a pad, a first integrated circuit assembly, a second integrated circuit assembly, and a flexible flat cable (FFC) assembly.

[0078] The pad can absorb the expansion of multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12. Each pad may include polyurethane (PU). Each pad may include a fire-retardant material, such as silicone.

[0079] The first integrated circuit assembly may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, a busbar, a sensing board, a sensing strip, a temperature sensor, wiring, and an insulating cover. The second integrated circuit assembly may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, a sensing board, a temperature sensor, wiring, and an insulating cover.

[0080] The first integrated circuit assembly and the second integrated circuit assembly may include physical and functional components for providing electrical connections between a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12, outputting the resulting voltages of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12, and measuring the voltage (or current) at nodes within a circuit formed by the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0081] refer to Figures 1 to 5The described battery cell assembly 120 may include a barrier pad 140 disposed between a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 and an elastic adhesive layer 130 disposed in contact with therewith. Therefore, when the temperature of the battery cell assembly 120 rises due to a thermal runaway event or the like, the barrier pad 140 expands in volume, and the shape change of the elastic adhesive layer 130 alters the relative positions of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12. This increases the distance between the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12, thereby delaying heat transfer between the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0082] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery cell assembly 120 with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0083] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery cell assembly 120 with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0084] (Second Implementation)

[0085] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell assembly 120A according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the following description, the references will be focused on... Figures 1 to 5 The differences described in the battery cell assembly 120.

[0086] refer to Figure 6 In the battery cell assembly 120A, multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 can be covered by a frame 120MF. The frame 120MF can be a monolithic frame. The frame 120MF may include openings for inserting the multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12, and therefore, the cross-sectional shape of the frame 120MF can be a hollow rectangle. The frame 120MF may have a receiving space. The multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 can be accommodated in this receiving space. The frame 120MF may include a metal such as aluminum or stainless steel and can protect the multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0087] The battery cell assembly 120 A may also include a first integrated circuit assembly, a second integrated circuit assembly, and a flexible flat cable (FFC) assembly.

[0088] The first integrated circuit assembly may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, a busbar, a sensing board, a sensing strip, a temperature sensor, wiring, and an insulating cover. The second integrated circuit assembly may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, a sensing board, a temperature sensor, wiring, and an insulating cover.

[0089] The first integrated circuit assembly and the second integrated circuit assembly may include physical and functional components for providing electrical connections between a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12, outputting the resulting voltages of the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12, and measuring the voltage (or current) at nodes within a circuit formed by the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0090] The insulating frame can include insulating materials such as plastic. The insulating frame can cover the front of multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12. The insulating frame can support integrated circuits, busbars, sensing boards, sensing strips, temperature sensors, and wiring.

[0091] The busbar can electrically connect multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12. The busbar can be fixed to the insulating frame.

[0092] The integrated circuit can be mounted on an insulating frame. The integrated circuit can be configured to measure the voltage at multiple nodes of multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 via a sensing plate and sensing strip.

[0093] The sensing strip may include a conductive material. The sensing strip may have a rod shape. The sensing strip may be shorted to a busbar. The sensing strip may be connected to a busbar. The voltage of the busbar can be measured using the sensing strip.

[0094] Each of the multiple sensing plates may have a patch shape or a pad shape. The multiple sensing plates may include conductive material. The multiple sensing plates may be coupled to the positive terminal 121P of multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 (see...). Figure 2 ) and negative extreme 121N (see Figure 2 The corresponding terminals in ) are shorted.

[0095] Each of the multiple sensing plates can be connected to an integrated circuit. Using these multiple sensing plates, the voltage at multiple nodes within the battery cell assembly 120A can be measured.

[0096] Temperature sensors can be configured to measure the temperature at multiple points within the battery cell assembly 120A. The temperature sensors can be spatially arranged, and therefore, the temperature distribution within the battery cell assembly 120A can be measured.

[0097] The insulating cover may include insulating materials, such as plastic. The insulating cover may be fitted to an insulating frame. The insulating cover may cover integrated circuits, busbars, sensing boards, sensing strips, and temperature sensors, thereby protecting the electrical components of the first and second integrated circuit assemblies.

[0098] The frame 120MF may include a bottom portion 120MF_b. The bottom portion 120MF_b is the part of the frame 120MF on which a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 are disposed. Specifically, the bottom portion 120MF_b may overlap with the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 in the second direction D2. An adhesive layer 130 may be disposed between the bottom portion 120MF_b and the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0099] refer to Figure 6 The described battery cell assembly 120A may include a barrier pad 140 disposed between a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 and an elastic adhesive layer 130 disposed in contact with the barrier pad 140. Therefore, when the temperature of the battery cell assembly 120A rises, the distance between the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 increases, thereby delaying heat transfer between the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0100] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery cell assembly 120A with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0101] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery cell assembly 120A with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0102] (Third implementation method)

[0103] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a battery cell assembly 120B according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the following description, the references will be focused on... Figures 1 to 5 The differences described in the battery cell assembly 120.

[0104] Reference Figure 7 Multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 can be housed in the lower housing 120U. The multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 can be arranged along a first direction D1 within the lower housing 120U. The multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 can be covered by the lower housing 120U and the upper housing 120T.

[0105] The lower housing 120U may have a U-shaped cross-sectional profile. Therefore, the lower housing 120U may have a relatively wide opening, allowing multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 to be easily inserted into the lower housing 120U. The lower housing 120U may be, for example, a U-shaped frame. The lower housing 120U and the upper housing 120T may be joined by a method such as butt welding. The lower housing 120U and the upper housing 120T may comprise metals such as aluminum or stainless steel and may protect the multiple battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0106] The lower housing 120U may include a bottom portion 120U_b. The bottom portion 120U_b is the part of the lower housing 120U on which a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 are disposed. Specifically, the bottom portion 120U_b may overlap with the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 in the second direction D2. An adhesive layer 130 may be disposed between the bottom portion 120U_b and the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0107] refer to Figure 7 The described battery cell assembly 120B may include a barrier pad 140 disposed between a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 and an elastic adhesive layer 130 disposed in contact with the barrier pad 140. Therefore, as the temperature of the battery cell assembly 120B rises, the distance between the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 increases, thereby delaying heat transfer between the plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12.

[0108] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery cell assembly 120B with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0109] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery cell assembly 120B with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0110] (Fourth Implementation)

[0111] Figure 8 This is a diagram of a battery pack 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] refer to Figure 8 The battery pack 100 may include a battery pack housing 110 and a plurality of battery cell assemblies 120. The battery pack 100 may be an end product installed in an application such as a vehicle. The battery cell assembly 120 may be a reference... Figures 1 to 7 The battery cell assembly described is 120, 120A or 120B.

[0113] The battery pack housing 110 provides space for mounting the battery cell assembly 120. The battery pack housing 110 may include a base plate 111, side walls 112, 113, 114, 115, a central beam 116, and a crossbeam 117.

[0114] Here, the first direction D1 and the third direction D3 can be substantially parallel to the mounting surface of the substrate 111 (i.e., the surface facing the battery cell assembly 120), and the second direction D2 can be substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface of the substrate 111.

[0115] Each of the substrate 111 and sidewalls 112, 113 can be provided by an extrusion process. The extrusion direction of each of the substrate 111 and sidewalls 112, 113 can be a first direction D1. Sidewalls 114, 115 can also be provided by an extrusion process. Sidewalls 112, 113, 114, 115 can be substantially perpendicular to the substrate 111.

[0116] According to an exemplary embodiment, the substrate 111 and sidewalls 112, 113 can be joined by friction stir welding. The substrate 111 may include multiple unit plates joined by friction stir welding.

[0117] The center beam 116 may extend in the first direction D1. The center beam 116 may be located between the sidewalls 112 and 113. The center beam 116 may be included in a center plate, which is one of a plurality of unit plates joined by friction stir welding. Therefore, the center beam 116 may be formed together with the center plate, and the center beam 116 may be a continuous and integral element with the center plate.

[0118] The crossbeam 117 can extend in the third direction D3. The crossbeam 117 can be located between the side walls 114 and 115.

[0119] The substrate 111 may include multiple cooling channels. These cooling channels can provide pathways for moving a coolant such as water. The multiple cooling channels can be formed by an extrusion process. The multiple cooling channels may extend in a first direction D1. The multiple cooling channels may be spaced apart in a third direction D3.

[0120] Multiple battery cell assemblies 120 can be disposed on a base plate 111 of the battery pack housing 110. The base plate 111 can support the multiple battery cell assemblies 120. Side walls 112, 113, 114, and 115 can horizontally surround the multiple battery cell assemblies 120. The side walls 112, 113, 114, and 115 can protect the multiple battery cell assemblies 120. The multiple battery cell assemblies 120 can be disposed in a space defined by a crossbeam 117 on the base plate 111.

[0121] The battery pack 100 may also include a battery pack cover attached to the side walls 112, 113, 114, 115 of the battery pack housing 110. The battery pack cover may cover components installed inside the battery pack 100, such as multiple battery cell assemblies 120 and electrical components. The battery pack cover may be secured to the battery pack housing 110 by a mechanical coupling such as a bolt connection.

[0122] exist Figure 8 In this context, the arrangement of multiple battery cell assemblies 120 can be described as 3 2. Layout. Figure 8The arrangement of the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 disclosed herein is a non-limiting example and does not limit the technical concept of this disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will be able to readily implement the M-shaped arrangement of the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 based on the content described herein. There are N arrangements (where M and N are each an integer of 2 or greater).

[0123] The battery pack 100 may also include a battery management system (BMS). The BMS can be configured to perform monitoring, equalization, and control of the battery pack 100. Monitoring of the battery pack 100 may include measuring the voltage and current at specific nodes within multiple battery cell assemblies 120 and measuring the temperature at designated locations within the battery pack 100. The battery pack 100 may include instruments for measuring the aforementioned voltage, current, and temperature.

[0124] Balancing the battery pack 100 is an operation that reduces deviations between the multiple battery cell assemblies 120. Control of the battery pack 100 includes preventing overcharging, over-discharging, and overcurrent. Through monitoring, balancing, and control, the battery pack 100 can operate under optimal conditions, thereby preventing a shortened lifespan of each of the multiple battery cell assemblies 120.

[0125] The battery pack 100 may also include additional electrical components such as a cooling device, a power relay assembly (PRA), and a safety plug. The cooling device may include a cooling fan. The cooling fan can prevent each of the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 from overheating by circulating air within the battery pack 100. The PRA can be configured to supply or disconnect power from the high-voltage battery to an external load (e.g., the vehicle's motor). The PRA can protect the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 and the external load (e.g., the vehicle's motor) by cutting off the power supply to the external load (e.g., the vehicle's motor) in the event of an abnormal voltage, such as a voltage surge. Additional electrical components may be inserted between the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 and the sidewall 115. The space between the battery cell assemblies 120 and the sidewall 115 may also be referred to as an electrical component mounting area.

[0126] The battery pack 100 may also include multiple interconnecting busbars configured to electrically connect multiple battery cell assemblies 120. The multiple battery cell assemblies 120 can be connected in series via the multiple interconnecting busbars. Therefore, the battery pack 100 can be configured to output a high voltage to an external load (e.g., a vehicle's motor).

[0127] The battery pack 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include battery cell assemblies 120, each battery cell assembly 120 including a barrier pad 140 disposed between a plurality of battery cells 121_1 to 121_12 and an elastic adhesive layer 130 disposed in contact with the barrier pad 140. Therefore, the safety of the battery pack 100 including the battery cell assemblies 120 is enhanced, and performance and reliability can be improved.

[0128] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery pack 100 with improved performance and reliability can be provided.

[0129] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery pack 100 with enhanced safety can be provided.

[0130] The present disclosure has been described in more detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. However, it should be understood that the configurations shown in the drawings or the embodiments described herein are merely one embodiment of the present disclosure and do not represent all the technical ideas of the present disclosure, and various equivalents and modifications may exist at the time of filing this application.

Claims

1. A battery cell assembly, the battery cell assembly comprising: Multiple battery cells; A barrier pad, wherein the barrier pad is located between the plurality of battery cells; as well as An adhesive layer is formed beneath the plurality of battery cells and contacts the barrier pad, wherein... The adhesive layer is configured to increase the distance between the plurality of battery cells when the temperature rises from a first temperature to a second temperature higher than the first temperature.

2. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The barrier pad is configured to expand in volume when the temperature rises from the first temperature to the second temperature, thereby increasing the distance between the plurality of battery cells.

3. The battery cell assembly according to claim 2, wherein, As the barrier pad expands in volume, the adhesive layer in contact with the barrier pad is also configured to expand.

4. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The adhesive layer is elastic, allowing its shape to change under external force.

5. The battery cell assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The adhesive layer is a silicone-based resin.

6. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of battery cells includes a first battery cell and a second battery cell arranged along a first direction. The adhesive layer includes a first point where it overlaps with the first battery cell in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and a second point where it overlaps with the second battery cell in the second direction. At the first temperature, the battery cell assembly has a first distance in the first direction between the first point and the second point. At the second temperature, the battery cell assembly has a second distance in the first direction between the first point and the second point, and The second distance is greater than the first distance.

7. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of battery cells includes a first battery cell and a second battery cell arranged along a first direction. The barrier pad is disposed between the first battery cell and the second battery cell, and The first thickness of the barrier pad in the first direction at the first temperature is less than the second thickness of the barrier pad in the first direction at the second temperature.

8. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first temperature is less than 90°C, and The second temperature is equal to or greater than 90°C and equal to or less than 150°C.

9. A battery cell assembly, the battery cell assembly comprising: A housing for accommodating multiple battery cells therein; The plurality of battery cells are located on the bottom of the housing; A barrier pad, wherein the barrier pad is located between the plurality of battery cells; as well as An adhesive layer is located between the plurality of battery cells and the bottom, wherein, The adhesive layer is elastic, allowing its shape to change under external force.

10. The battery cell assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The adhesive layer is configured to expand in volume when the temperature rises, thereby increasing the distance between the plurality of battery cells.

11. The battery cell assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The barrier pad is configured to expand in volume when the temperature rises, thereby increasing the distance between the plurality of battery cells, and As the barrier pad expands in volume, the adhesive layer in contact with the barrier pad is also configured to expand.

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