Battery pack case and battery pack including the same

Abstract

According to an exemplary embodiment, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack may include: a battery pack housing including a substrate, a central beam extending on the substrate along a first direction, a first crossbeam extending along a second direction and intersecting the central beam, and sidewalls surrounding the central beam and the first crossbeam; a battery cell assembly including battery cells arranged on the substrate along the first direction; and a first resin layer located between a mounting surface of the substrate and the battery cell assembly. The substrate may include solvent flow paths recessed from the mounting surface. The solvent flow paths may overlap the first resin layer in a third direction perpendicular to each of the first and second directions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery pack housing and a battery pack including the battery pack housing. This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0004142, filed on January 10, 2025, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged multiple times. They are widely used as power sources for various wireless devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, and cordless vacuum cleaners. Recently, due to increased 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 internal combustion engine vehicles. Therefore, the primary application of secondary batteries has shifted from mobile devices to mobility applications.

[0003] The technological development trend of secondary batteries for mobility applications is towards improved energy density and safety. Here, the energy density of a secondary battery is the maximum amount of electrical energy that can be stored in it divided by the battery's mass. Since high energy density is directly related to mobility efficiency and range, various studies are underway to improve the energy density of secondary batteries. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues

[0005] The problem to be solved by the technical concept of this disclosure is to provide a battery pack from which individual battery cells can be easily detached.

[0006] Technical solution

[0007] According to an exemplary embodiment for solving the above-described problems, a battery pack is provided. The battery pack may include: a battery pack housing including a substrate, a central beam extending on the substrate in a first direction, a first crossbeam extending in a second direction and intersecting the central beam, and sidewalls surrounding the central beam and the first crossbeam; a battery cell assembly including battery cells arranged on the substrate in the first direction; and a first resin layer located between a mounting surface of the substrate and the battery cell assembly. The substrate may include solvent flow paths recessed from the mounting surface. The solvent flow paths may overlap the first resin layer in a third direction perpendicular to each of the first and second directions.

[0008] The solvent flow path may include: a first flow path extending in a first direction; and second flow paths, each connected to the first flow path and spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

[0009] The solvent flow path may further include third flow paths, each connected to the first flow path and spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The third flow path may be located on the opposite side of the second flow path in the second direction, with the first flow path located between the second and third flow paths.

[0010] The second and third flow paths can alternate in the first direction.

[0011] Each second flow path may be spaced apart from the sidewalls and the central beam. Each third flow path may be spaced apart from the sidewalls and the central beam.

[0012] The first crossbeam may include a solvent injection port connected to one end of the first flow path in a first direction.

[0013] The battery pack may further include a second crossbeam extending in a second direction and intersecting the central beam, the second crossbeam being spaced apart from the first crossbeam in the first direction, and the battery cell assembly located between the first crossbeam and the second crossbeam. The second crossbeam may include a solvent injection port connected to the other end of the first flow path in the first direction.

[0014] The battery cell assembly may include: a first side beam and a second side beam, spaced apart from each other in a first direction, with the battery cell located between the first side beam and the second side beam; and a lifting strap connected to the first side beam and the second side beam. The lifting strap may include: a first portion located between the battery cell and the substrate; a second portion connected to the first portion and overlapping the first side beam in the first direction; and a third portion connected to the first portion and overlapping the second side beam in the first direction.

[0015] The solvent flow path may include: a first flow path extending in a first direction; a second flow path extending in the first direction and spaced apart from the first flow path in a second direction; a third flow path each connected to the first flow path and spaced apart from each other in the first direction; and a fourth flow path each connected to the second flow path and spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

[0016] The third flow path can be spaced apart from the fourth flow path in the second direction.

[0017] The mounting surface of the substrate may also include a groove for accommodating a first portion of the lifting belt. The third flow path may be spaced apart from the fourth flow path in the second direction, and the groove is located between the third and fourth flow paths.

[0018] The battery pack may further include: a second resin layer. The first resin layer may overlap with the first flow path and the third flow path in a third direction. The second resin layer may overlap with the second flow path and the fourth flow path in a third direction.

[0019] The battery cell assembly may be located between the first sidewall and the central beam. The first sidewall may include a solvent injection port connected to a first flow path. The central beam may include a solvent injection port connected to a second flow path.

[0020] According to an exemplary embodiment for solving the above-described problems, a battery pack housing is provided. The battery pack housing may include: a substrate; and a beam extending in one direction on the substrate. The substrate may include a first solvent flow path recessed from a mounting surface. The beam may include a first solvent injection hole connected to the first solvent flow path.

[0021] The substrate may further include a second solvent flow path recessed from the mounting surface and separated from the first solvent flow path. The beam may also include a second solvent injection hole connected to the second solvent flow path. The second solvent injection hole may be separate from the first solvent injection hole.

[0022] Beneficial effects

[0023] An exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides a battery pack housing that includes a solvent flow path and a solvent injection port connected to the solvent flow path. When disassembling a battery cell assembly mounted on the battery pack housing, solvent can be injected into the solvent injection port to dissolve the resin layer securing the battery cell assembly. Therefore, the battery cell assembly can be easily and quickly removed from the battery pack housing, and any residual resin layer can be easily removed.

[0024] The effects obtainable in 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 from the following description. In other words, those skilled in the art can also derive unintended effects from the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure when practicing them. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a top view of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a top view showing a portion of the battery pack housing according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a top view of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a top view showing a portion of the battery pack housing according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Prior to this description, the terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical concept of the present disclosure, based on the inventor's ability to appropriately define the concepts of the terms in order to best describe the principles of his or her own invention.

[0035] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of this disclosure and do not represent the entire technical concept of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

[0036] In addition, when describing this disclosure, detailed descriptions of relevant known configurations or functions will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the main points of this disclosure.

[0037] The embodiments of this disclosure are provided to describe the disclosure more completely to those skilled in the art. Therefore, for clarity, the shapes and dimensions of components in the drawings may be enlarged, omitted, or shown schematically. Consequently, the dimensions or proportions of the individual components do not perfectly reflect their actual dimensions or proportions.

[0038] (First embodiment and second embodiment)

[0039] Figure 1 This is a top view of the battery pack 100 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a top view showing a portion of the battery pack housing 110 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 It shows which ones are not installed Figure 1 An embodiment of the battery cell assembly 120. Figure 2 It shows the relationship with Figure 1 Part of P1 corresponds to the battery pack housing 110.

[0041] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 It shows along Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cross section intercepted by line A-A'.

[0042] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 It shows along Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cross section intercepted by line B-B'.

[0043] Reference Figures 1 to 4 The battery pack 100 may include a battery pack housing 110, a plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 and a resin layer 130.

[0044] The battery pack housing 110 may include a substrate 111, a central beam 112, crossbeams 113A and 113B, and sidewalls 114A, 114B, 114C, and 114D. Here, the mounting surface of the substrate 111 ( Figure 2 The two directions that are generally parallel to the mounting surface 111M of the substrate 111 are defined as the X direction and the Y direction, and the direction that is generally perpendicular to the mounting surface 111M of the substrate 111 is defined as the Z direction. The X direction, Y direction and Z direction may be generally perpendicular to each other.

[0045] The substrate 111 can support multiple battery cell modules 120. The substrate 111 can have a flat shape.

[0046] The substrate 111 may include solvent flow paths 140A and 140B. Each of the solvent flow paths 140A and 140B may be formed to be recessed from the mounting surface 111M of the substrate 111. The solvent flow paths 140A and 140B may provide channels for the flow of solvent dissolving the resin layer 130. The resin layer 130 may be interposed between each battery cell assembly 120 and the substrate 111 to secure each battery cell assembly 120 to the substrate 111. Each of the solvent flow paths 140A and 140B may overlap with the resin layer 130 in the Z direction. Each of the solvent flow paths 140A and 140B may overlap with a corresponding battery cell assembly 120 in the Z direction. The solvent flow paths 140A and 140B may be separable from each other.

[0047] Solvent flow path 140A can be located between crossbeams 113A and 113B. Solvent flow path 140A can be formed to be recessed from the mounting surface 111M on the substrate 111 where a battery cell assembly 120 is mounted. Solvent flow path 140B can be located between crossbeam 113B and sidewall 114C. Solvent flow path 140B can be formed to be recessed from the mounting surface 111M on the substrate 111 where a battery cell assembly 120 is mounted.

[0048] Each of the solvent flow paths 140A and 140B may include a first flow path 141, a second flow path 142, and a third flow path 143. According to one embodiment, the first flow path 141 may extend in the X direction. According to another embodiment, the first flow path 141 may extend in a direction inclined relative to the X direction. According to one embodiment, the first flow path 141 may have a straight shape. According to another embodiment, the first flow path 141 may have a curved shape or a serpentine shape.

[0049] One end of the first flow path 141 of solvent flow path 140A can be connected to the solvent injection port 113AH of crossbeam 113A. The other end of the first flow path 141 of solvent flow path 140A can be connected to the solvent injection port 113BH1 of crossbeam 113B. The first flow path 141 of solvent flow path 140A can receive solvent from the solvent injection ports 113AH and 113BH1.

[0050] One end of the first flow path 141 of the solvent flow path 140B can be connected to the solvent injection port 113BH2 of the crossbeam 113B. The other end of the first flow path 141 of the solvent flow path 140B can be connected to the solvent injection port 114CH of the sidewall 114C. The first flow path 141 of the solvent flow path 140B can receive solvent from the solvent injection ports 113BH2 and 114CH.

[0051] Each second flow path 142 may be connected to the first flow path 141. Each second flow path 142 may protrude from the first flow path 141 in the Y direction. According to one embodiment, each second flow path 142 may extend toward the central beam 112 in the Y direction. According to another embodiment, each second flow path 142 may extend toward the intermediate beam 112 in a direction inclined relative to the Y direction. According to one embodiment, each second flow path 142 may have a straight shape. According to another embodiment, each second flow path 142 may have a curved shape or a serpentine shape.

[0052] The second flow paths 142 may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. Each second flow path 142 may be spaced apart from the central beam 112 in the Y direction. Each second flow path 142 may be spaced apart from the sidewall 114B in the Y direction. According to one embodiment, the second flow paths 142 may be arranged at equal intervals in the X direction. According to another embodiment, the second flow paths 142 may be arranged at different intervals in the X direction.

[0053] Each third flow path 143 may be connected to the first flow path 141. Each third flow path 143 may protrude from the first flow path 141 in the Y direction. According to one embodiment, each third flow path 143 may extend toward the sidewall 114B in the Y direction. According to another embodiment, each third flow path 143 may extend toward the sidewall 114B in a direction inclined relative to the Y direction. According to one embodiment, each third flow path 143 may have a straight shape. According to another embodiment, each third flow path 143 may have a curved shape or a serpentine shape.

[0054] The third flow path 143 may be located on the opposite side of the second flow path 142 in the Y direction, and the first flow path 141 is located between the second flow path 142 and the third flow path 143. The third flow paths 143 may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. Each third flow path 143 may be spaced apart from the central beam 112 in the Y direction. Each third flow path 143 may be spaced apart from the sidewall 114B in the Y direction. According to one embodiment, the third flow paths 143 may be arranged at equal intervals in the X direction. According to another embodiment, the third flow paths 143 may be arranged at different intervals in the X direction.

[0055] According to one embodiment, each third flow path 143 may not be aligned with each second flow path 142 in the Y direction. The second flow paths 142 and the third flow paths 143 may be arranged alternately in the X direction. According to another embodiment, each third flow path 143 may be aligned with a corresponding second flow path 142 in the Y direction.

[0056] The central beam 112 and crossbeams 113A and 113B can divide the space defined by the battery pack housing 110. The central beam 112 and crossbeams 113A and 113B can divide the space in which the battery cell assembly 120 is installed. The central beam 112 and crossbeams 113A and 113B can be surrounded by sidewalls 114A, 114B, 114C and 114D.

[0057] The central beam 112 can extend in the X direction. The central beam 112 can be formed together with the substrate 111 by an extrusion process, or it can be welded to the substrate 111. The central beam 112 can isolate the battery cell assembly 120 in the Y direction.

[0058] Each of the crossbeams 113A and 113B may intersect with the central beam 112. Each of the crossbeams 113A and 113B may extend in the Y direction. The crossbeams 113A and 113B may isolate multiple battery cell assemblies 120 in the X direction.

[0059] Sidewalls 114A, 114B, 114C, and 114D may be substantially perpendicular to substrate 111. Sidewalls 114A, 114B, 114C, and 114D may be adjacent to an edge portion of substrate 111. Sidewalls 114A, 114B, 114C, and 114D may be integrated into the edge portion of substrate 111. Sidewalls 114A, 114B, 114C, and 114D may horizontally surround a plurality of cell assembly 120.

[0060] Crossbeam 113A may include solvent injection port 113AH. Solvent injection port 113AH may be connected to one end of the first flow path 141 of solvent flow path 140A in the X direction. Crossbeam 113B may include solvent injection ports 113BH1 and 113BH2. Solvent injection port 113BH1 may be connected to the other end of the first flow path 141 of solvent flow path 140A in the X direction. Solvent injection port 113BH2 may be connected to one end of solvent flow path 140B in the X direction. Sidewall 114C may include solvent injection port 114CH. Solvent injection port 114CH may be connected to the other end of solvent flow path 140B in the X direction. The solvent injection ports 113BH1 and 113BH2 of crossbeam 113B may be separate from each other.

[0061] Each of the solvent injection holes 113AH and 113BH1 provides a channel for injecting solvent into the solvent flow path 140A. Solvent injected into the solvent injection holes 113AH and 113BH1 can flow into a first flow path 141 of the solvent flow path 140A. Solvent flowing through the first flow path 141 can flow into a second flow path 142 and a third flow path 143. Solvent flowing into the first flow path 141, the second flow path 142, and the third flow path 143 can dissolve the resin layer 130 between the substrate 111 and each battery cell assembly 120.

[0062] Solvent injection holes 113BH2 and 114CH provide channels for injecting solvent into solvent flow path 140B. Solvent injected into solvent injection holes 113BH2 and 114CH can flow into a first flow path 141 of solvent flow path 140B. Solvent flowing through the first flow path 141 can flow into a second flow path 142 and a third flow path 143. Solvent flowing into the first flow path 141, the second flow path 142, and the third flow path 143 can dissolve the resin layer 130 between the substrate 111 and each battery cell assembly 120.

[0063] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, when a portion or all of the battery cell assembly 120 is removed from the battery pack housing 110, the resin layer 130 can be dissolved by supplying solvent to solvent flow paths 140A and 140B via solvent injection holes 113AH, 113BH1, 113BH2 and 114CH. Therefore, the adhesion between the battery cell assembly 120 and the substrate 111 is weakened, allowing the battery cell assembly 120 to be easily removed from the battery pack housing 110. Furthermore, since each of the solvent flow paths 140A and 140B overlaps with and is separated from one battery cell assembly 120 in the Z direction, a portion of the battery cell assembly 120 can be selectively removed from the battery pack housing 110. Additionally, the resin layer 130 remaining on the battery pack housing 110 after the battery cell assembly 120 is removed can be easily removed by injecting solvent.

[0064] Multiple battery cell assemblies 120 can be disposed on the mounting surface 111M of the substrate 111 of the battery pack housing 110. The battery cell assemblies 120 can be arranged in both the X and Y directions. In this example, two battery cell assemblies 120 are arranged along the X direction and two battery cell assemblies are arranged along the Y direction, such that the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 form a 2x2 matrix. However, this is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the technical concept of this disclosure in any way.

[0065] In the following description, embodiments in which each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 includes a module frame 123 will be described. However, this is a non-limiting example and does not limit the technical concept of this disclosure in any way. According to other exemplary embodiments, each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 may not include the module frame 123. That is, the battery pack 100 may be modular. Those skilled in the art can readily derive, based on the description provided herein, a plurality of battery cell assemblies without a module frame and a modular battery pack including the plurality of battery cell assemblies.

[0066] Each battery cell assembly 120 may include a plurality of battery cells 121 arranged along the X direction. Each of the plurality of battery cells 121 may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a casing. Each of the plurality of battery cells 121 may be any one of a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, and a pouch battery cell. The electrode assembly of a cylindrical battery cell is housed in a cylindrical metal can. The electrode assembly of a prismatic battery cell is housed in a prismatic metal can. The electrode assembly of a pouch battery cell is housed in a pouch casing comprising an aluminum laminate.

[0067] An electrode assembly includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator inserted between the positive and negative electrodes. A wound electrode assembly is formed by winding the positive electrode, the negative electrode, and the separator inserted between them. A stacked electrode assembly includes multiple positive electrodes, multiple negative electrodes, and multiple separators inserted between them, stacked sequentially.

[0068] According to an exemplary embodiment, multiple battery cells 121 may constitute multiple groups. Multiple groups may include one or more battery cells 121 connected in parallel. Multiple groups may be connected in series with each other. The number of battery cells 121 included in each of the multiple groups and the number of groups connected in series with each other can be determined based on the voltage and current to be output through each of the multiple battery cell assemblies 120.

[0069] Each battery cell assembly 120 may further include a plurality of separators 122. The plurality of separators 122 may be interposed between the plurality of battery cells 121. The plurality of separators 122 may comprise an elastic material and be capable of absorbing the expansion of the plurality of battery cells. According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of separators 122 may be thermal barriers. According to an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of separators 122 may have a high melting temperature and low thermal conductivity. According to an exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of separators 122 may include a fire-retardant material, such as ceramic or coated glass. According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of separators 122 may be configured to release the fire-retardant material and a fire-extinguishing agent in the event of a thermal runaway event. The battery cells 121 and the separators 122 may form a battery cell stack.

[0070] The module frame 123 can form an internal space to accommodate the battery cell 121 and the separator 122. The module frame 123 may include a bottom plate 123B, a side plate 123S and a top plate 123T.

[0071] One surface of the base plate 123B can contact the resin layer 130 on the substrate 111. Multiple battery cells 121 and separators 122 can be mounted on the other surface of the base plate 123B. The base plate 123B can support multiple battery cells 121 and separators 122 from below in the Z direction.

[0072] The side plate 123S may be substantially perpendicular to the base plate 123B. The side plate 123S may be located at the edge of the base plate 123B. According to one embodiment, the side plate 123S may be integral with the base plate 123B. According to another embodiment, the side plate 123S may be configured to be attached to the base plate 123B by bolting, welding, or the like.

[0073] A top plate 123T may be located on a side plate 123S. The top plate 123T may be spaced apart from the bottom plate 123B in the Z direction, and the side plate 123S is located between the top plate 123T and the bottom plate 123B. According to one embodiment, the top plate 123T may be integral with the side plate 123S. According to another embodiment, the top plate 123T may be configured to be attached to the side plate 123S by bolting, welding, or the like.

[0074] The resin layer 130 can be disposed on the substrate 111 of the battery pack housing 110. The resin layer 130 can be interposed between each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 and the substrate 111. That is, the battery pack 100 may include a plurality of resin layers 130.

[0075] Resin layer 130 may comprise a resin composition. Resin layer 130 may be provided by a thermal resin coating process. The resin composition may be a room-temperature curable composition. That is, the curing reaction of the resin composition can begin and proceed at room temperature. The curing reaction of the resin composition can be accelerated at temperatures above room temperature. The curing reaction rate of the resin composition at temperatures above room temperature may be faster than the curing reaction rate of the resin composition at room temperature. As a non-limiting example, the main material of the resin composition may be any one of silicone resin, polyol resin, epoxy resin, and acrylic resin.

[0076] The curing agent for the resin composition can be selected based on the main material of the resin composition. For example, when the main material of the resin composition is silicone resin, a siloxane compound can be used as the curing agent. For example, when the main material of the resin composition is polyol resin, an isocyanate compound can be used as the curing agent. For example, when the main material of the resin composition is epoxy resin, an amine compound can be used as the curing agent. For example, when the main material of the resin composition is acrylic resin, an isocyanate compound can be used as the curing agent.

[0077] The inorganic filler in the resin composition can have a relatively high thermal conductivity. According to an exemplary embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the inorganic filler in the resin composition can be about 1 W / mK or higher. According to an exemplary embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the inorganic filler in the resin composition can be 5 W / mK or higher. According to an exemplary embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the inorganic filler in the resin composition can be 10 W / mK or higher. According to an exemplary embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the inorganic filler in the resin composition can be about 15 W / mK or higher.

[0078] According to an exemplary embodiment, the inorganic filler of the resin composition may comprise ceramics. For example, the inorganic filler of the resin composition may comprise any one of alumina (Al₂O₃), aluminum nitride (AlN), boron nitride (BN), silicon nitride (Si₃N₄), silicon carbide (SiC), beryllium oxide (BeO), zinc oxide (ZnO), aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)₃), and boehmite. The resin composition may comprise carbon filler. The resin composition may comprise, for example, any one of pyrolytic silica, clay, and calcium carbonate.

[0079] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, the battery pack 100 may include a venting device. The venting device may be integrated into any one of the sidewalls 114A, 114B, 114C, and 114D. The sidewalls 114A, 114B, 114C, and 114D integrated with the venting device may include venting paths connected to the venting device. The venting device may be configured to delay heat propagation by venting high-temperature gases inside the battery pack 100 to the outside when at least one of the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120 is in a thermal runaway state.

[0080] Here, the thermal runaway state of multiple battery cell modules 120 is a state in which the temperature changes of multiple battery cell modules 120 further accelerate the temperature changes, which is an uncontrollable positive feedback. Multiple battery cell modules 120 in the thermal runaway state exhibit a rapid temperature rise and emit large amounts of high-pressure gas and combustion residues.

[0081] The battery pack 100 may include covers attached to sidewalls 114A, 114B, 114C, and 114D. The covers may cover components disposed within the battery pack 100, such as battery cell assemblies 120 and electrical components. The covers may be secured to the battery pack 100 by mechanical fastening means such as bolts.

[0082] The battery pack 100 may also include an intermediate busbar. Multiple battery cell modules 120 can be connected in series via the intermediate busbar, and the battery pack 100 can output a high voltage.

[0083] The battery pack 100 may further include electrical components. These electrical components may be disposed within the battery pack housing 110. The electrical components may be disposed between any one of the sidewalls 114A, 114B, 114C, and 114D on which venting devices are mounted and the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120.

[0084] For example, electrical components may include a battery management system (BMS). The BMS may be configured to perform monitoring, balancing, and control of the battery pack. Monitoring of the battery pack 100 may include measuring the voltage and current at specific nodes within the multiple individual battery cell assemblies 120, as well as measuring the temperature at designated locations within the battery pack 100. The battery pack 100 may include sensors for measuring the aforementioned voltage, current, and temperature.

[0085] Balancing the battery pack 100 is an operation to reduce deviations between the multiple battery cell assemblies 120. Controlling 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 for each of the multiple battery cell assemblies 120.

[0086] Electrical components may also include a cooling device, a power relay assembly (PRA), and a safety plug. The cooling device may include a cooling fan. The cooling fan prevents 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 to an external load (e.g., a vehicle's motor). In the event of an abnormal voltage such as a voltage surge, the PRA can protect the multiple battery cell assemblies 120 and the external load (e.g., the vehicle's motor) by disconnecting the power supply to the external load (e.g., the vehicle's motor).

[0087] (Third and Fourth Embodiments)

[0088] Figure 5 This is a top view of the battery pack 100' according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0089] Figure 6 This is a top view showing a portion of the battery pack housing 110' according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 6 Not installed Figure 5 An embodiment of the battery cell assembly 120'. Figure 6 It shows the relationship with Figure 5 Part of P2 corresponds to the battery pack housing 110'.

[0090] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack 100' according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 7 It shows along Figure 5 and Figure 6 The cross section intercepted by line C-C'.

[0091] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack 100' according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 8 It shows along Figure 5 and Figure 6 The cross section intercepted by line D-D'.

[0092] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the battery pack 100' according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 9 It shows along Figure 5 and Figure 6 The cross section intercepted by line E-E'.

[0093] exist Figures 5 to 9 In the first embodiment, the description provided can be applied to having the same characteristics as... Figures 1 to 4 Components in the same figures are referred to by the same reference numerals, and identical descriptions will be omitted. In the following, the components in the second embodiment that differ from those in the first embodiment will be described primarily.

[0094] The substrate 111' may include solvent flow paths 140C and 140D. Solvent flow paths 140C and 140D can provide channels for the flow of solvent dissolving the resin layer 130. Solvent flow path 140C may overlap with a corresponding battery cell assembly 120' in the Z-direction. Solvent flow path 140D may overlap with a corresponding battery cell assembly 120' in the Z-direction. Solvent flow path 140C may be separate from solvent flow path 140D.

[0095] Solvent flow path 140C can be located between the central beam 112 and the sidewall 114B. Solvent flow path 140C can be formed to be recessed from the mounting surface 111M' on which a battery cell assembly 120' is mounted. Solvent flow path 140D can be located between the central beam 112 and the sidewall 114D. Solvent flow path 140D can be formed to be recessed from the mounting surface 111M' on which a battery cell assembly 120' is mounted.

[0096] Each of the solvent flow paths 140C and 140D may include a first flow path 141', a second flow path 142', a third flow path 143', and a fourth flow path 144'.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the first flow path 141' may extend in the X direction. According to another embodiment, the first flow path 141' may extend in a direction inclined relative to the X direction. According to one embodiment, the first flow path 141' may have a straight shape. According to another embodiment, the first flow path 141' may have a curved shape or a serpentine shape.

[0098] The first flow path 141' of solvent flow path 140C can be connected to the solvent injection port 114BH of sidewall 114B. The second flow path 142' of solvent flow path 140C can be connected to the solvent injection port 112H1 of center beam 112. The first flow path 141' of solvent flow path 140D can be connected to the solvent injection port 114DH of sidewall 114D. The second flow path 142' of solvent flow path 140D can be connected to the solvent injection port 112H2 of center beam 112.

[0099] Each third flow path 143' may be connected to the first flow path 141'. Each third flow path 143' may protrude from the first flow path 141' in the Y direction. According to one embodiment, each third flow path 143' may extend toward the second flow path 142' in the Y direction. According to another embodiment, each third flow path 143' may extend toward the second flow path 142' in a direction inclined relative to the Y direction.

[0100] Each third flow path 143' may be spaced apart from the groove 111G in the Y direction. The groove 111G may be configured to be recessed from the mounting surface 111M' of the substrate 111' to receive the first portion P1 of the lifting band 128, which will be described later. The third flow paths 143' may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. According to one embodiment, the third flow paths 143' may be arranged at equal intervals in the X direction. According to another embodiment, the third flow paths 143' may be arranged at different intervals in the X direction.

[0101] Each fourth flow path 144' may connect to the second flow path 142'. Each fourth flow path 144' may protrude from the second flow path 142' in the Y direction. According to one embodiment, each fourth flow path 144' may extend toward the first flow path 141' in the Y direction. According to another embodiment, each fourth flow path 144' may extend toward the first flow path 141' in a direction inclined relative to the Y direction.

[0102] Each fourth flow path 144' may be spaced apart from the groove 111G in the Y direction. The fourth flow paths 144' may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction. According to one embodiment, the fourth flow paths 144' may be arranged at equal intervals in the X direction. According to another embodiment, the fourth flow paths 144' may be arranged at different intervals in the X direction.

[0103] The fourth flow path 144' may be separated from the third flow path 143'. The fourth flow path 144' may be spaced apart from the third flow path 143' in the Y direction, and the groove 111G is located between the third flow path 143' and the fourth flow path 144'. According to one embodiment, each fourth flow path 144' may not be aligned with each third flow path 143' in the Y direction. According to another embodiment, each fourth flow path 144' may be aligned with a corresponding one of the third flow paths 143' in the Y direction.

[0104] Sidewall 114B may include solvent injection port 114BH. Solvent injection port 114BH may be connected to a first flow path 141' of solvent flow path 140C. According to one embodiment, solvent injection port 114BH may be connected to the first flow path 141' at the center of the first flow path 141' in the X direction.

[0105] The central beam 112 may include solvent injection holes 112H1 and 112H2. Solvent injection hole 112H1 may be connected to a second flow path 142' of solvent flow path 140C. According to one embodiment, solvent injection hole 112H1 may be connected to the second flow path 142' at the center of the second flow path 142' in the X direction.

[0106] Solvent injection port 112H2 can be connected to a second flow path 142' of solvent flow path 140D. According to one embodiment, solvent injection port 112H2 can be connected to the second flow path 142' at its center in the X direction. Solvent injection port 112H2 can be separated from solvent injection port 112H1.

[0107] The sidewall 114D may include a solvent injection port 114DH. The solvent injection port 114DH may be connected to a first flow path 141' of the solvent flow path 140D. According to one embodiment, the solvent injection port 114DH may be connected to the first flow path 141' at its center in the X direction.

[0108] Solvent injection holes 114DH and 112H2 provide channels for injecting solvent into solvent flow path 140D. Solvent injected into solvent injection hole 114DH can flow into first flow path 141' of solvent flow path 140D. Solvent flowing through first flow path 141' can flow into third flow path 143'. Solvent injected into solvent injection hole 112H2 can flow into second flow path 142' of solvent flow path 140D. Solvent flowing through second flow path 142' can flow into fourth flow path 144'. Solvent flowing into first flow path 141' and third flow path 143' can dissolve resin layer 130B between substrate 111' and each battery cell assembly 120'. Solvent flowing into second flow path 142' and fourth flow path 144' can dissolve resin layer 130A between substrate 111' and each battery cell assembly 120'.

[0109] Similarly, solvent injection holes 114BH and 112H1 provide channels for injecting solvent into solvent flow path 140C. Solvent injected into solvent injection hole 114BH can flow into first flow path 141' of solvent flow path 140C. Solvent flowing through first flow path 141' can flow into third flow path 143'. Solvent injected into solvent injection hole 112H1 can flow into second flow path 142' of solvent flow path 140C. Solvent flowing through second flow path 142' can flow into fourth flow path 144'. Solvent flowing into first flow path 141' and third flow path 143' can dissolve the resin layer (not shown) between substrate 111' and each battery cell assembly 120'. Solvent flowing into second flow path 142' and fourth flow path 144' can dissolve the resin layer (not shown) between substrate 111' and each battery cell assembly 120'.

[0110] The battery pack housing 110' includes solvent injection holes 112H1, 112H2, 114BH, and 114DH, and solvent flow paths 140C and 140D, allowing the battery cell assembly 120' to be easily removed from the battery pack housing 110'. The resin layers 130A and 130B can be dissolved by supplying solvent to the solvent flow paths 140C and 140D via the solvent injection holes 112H1, 112H2, 114BH, and 114DH. Therefore, the adhesion between the battery cell assembly 120' and the substrate 111' is weakened, allowing the battery cell assembly 120' to be easily removed from the battery pack housing 110'. Furthermore, since the solvent flow paths 140C and 140D overlap with each battery cell assembly 120' in the Z direction but are separate from each other, a portion of the battery cell assembly 120' can be selectively removed from the battery pack housing 110'. Furthermore, the resin layer remaining on the battery pack housing 110' after disassembling the battery cell assembly 120' can also be easily removed by injecting solvent.

[0111] Each of the plurality of battery cell assemblies 120' may not include a module frame. That is, the battery pack 100 may be moduleless. However, this is a non-limiting example and does not limit the technical concept of this disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art can readily derive a plurality of battery cell assemblies including a module frame and a modular battery pack including the plurality of battery cell assemblies based on the description provided herein.

[0112] Each of the multiple battery cell assemblies 120' may include multiple battery cells 121, multiple separators 122, side beams 124A, 124B, integrated circuit assembly 125, and lifting strap 128.

[0113] Side beams 124A and 124B may be spaced apart from each other in the X direction, and the battery cell stack includes a plurality of battery cells 121 and a separator 122 located between the plurality of battery cells 121. Side beams 124A and 124B may support the battery cell stack in the X direction. Side beams 124A and 124B may have substantially the same shape as each other. Side beams 124A and 124B may be made of aluminum. Side beams 124A and 124B may be provided by an extrusion process. Side beams 124A and 124B may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the battery cell stack. Each of side beams 124A and 124B may have a shape that approximately corresponds to the Greek letter "Γ". Side beam 124A may be attached to a crossbeam 113A. Side beam 124B may be attached to a crossbeam 113B.

[0114] According to an exemplary embodiment, side beam 124A may include a groove into which a second portion P2 of lifting strap 128 is inserted. According to an exemplary embodiment, side beam 124B may include a groove into which a third portion P3 of lifting strap 128 is inserted.

[0115] The integrated circuit assembly 125 may include an insulating frame, an integrated circuit, a busbar, a sensing board, a sensing strip, a temperature sensor, wires, and an insulating cover. The integrated circuit assembly 125 may include physical and functional components for providing electrical connections between a plurality of battery cells 121, outputting the combined voltage of the plurality of battery cells 121, and measuring the voltage (or current) of nodes within a circuit formed by the plurality of battery cells 121.

[0116] The insulating frame may contain insulating materials such as plastic. The insulating frame may cover the front side of multiple battery cells 121. The insulating frame may support integrated circuits, busbars, sensing boards, sensing strips, temperature sensors, and wires.

[0117] The busbar can be short-circuited to the positive lead of the first group of battery cells 121 and the negative lead of one or more battery cells 121 in the last group. The busbar can be soldered to the positive lead of the first group of battery cells 121 and the negative lead of one or more battery cells 121 in the last group. The combined voltage of the multiple battery cells 121 in the battery cell assembly 120' can be output through the busbar. The busbar can be fixed to an insulating frame.

[0118] The integrated circuit can be mounted on an insulating frame. Positive and negative leads soldered to each other can form nodes within the cell assembly 120'. The integrated circuit can be configured to measure the voltage of the nodes via sensing plates and sensing strips.

[0119] The sensing strip may contain conductive material. The sensing strip may have a rod shape. The sensing strip may be connected to the busbar in a short-circuit manner. The sensing strip may be integrated into the busbar. The voltage of the busbar can be measured through the sensing strip.

[0120] Each of the multiple sensing plates may have a patch shape or a pad shape. The multiple sensing plates may contain conductive material. The multiple sensing plates may be short-circuited to corresponding leads of the positive and negative leads of the multiple battery cells 121.

[0121] Each of the multiple sensing plates can be connected to an integrated circuit. The voltage of multiple nodes within the battery cell assembly 120' can be measured using the multiple sensing plates.

[0122] Temperature sensors can be configured to measure the temperature at multiple points within the battery cell assembly 120'. The temperature sensors can be spatially arranged to measure the temperature distribution within the battery cell assembly 120'.

[0123] The insulating cover may contain insulating materials such as plastic. The insulating cover may be fitted to the insulating frame in a shape-fit manner. 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.

[0124] The lifting strap 128 can be integrated into each of the side beams 124A and 124B. The lifting strap 128 may be made of metal. The lifting strap 128 may include a first part P1, a second part P2, and a third part P3.

[0125] The first portion P1 can extend in the X direction. The first portion P1 can be inserted into a groove 111G recessed from the mounting surface 111M' of the substrate 111'. The first portion P1 can overlap with multiple battery cells 121 in the Z direction. The first portion P1 can contact multiple battery cells 121. The first portion P1 can support multiple battery cells 121. When the battery cell assembly 120' is placed on the battery pack housing 110' or when the battery cell assembly 120' is lifted from the battery pack housing 110', the lifting strap 128 can prevent or reduce the sagging of the multiple battery cells 121. Therefore, assembly efficiency is improved not only during the manufacturing of the battery pack 100, but also after-sales service is facilitated.

[0126] Each of the second portion P2 and the third portion P3 can be connected to the first portion P1. The second portion P2 and the third portion P3 can be spaced apart from each other in the X direction, and the first portion P1 is located between the second portion P2 and the third portion P3. The second portion P2 and the third portion P3 can extend in the Z direction. The lifting strap 128 may include a bend between the second portion P2 and the first portion P1, and a bend between the third portion P3 and the first portion P1. The second portion P2 can overlap with the side beam 124A in the X direction. The third portion P3 can overlap with the side beam 124B in the X direction.

[0127] Reference Figure 9 Resin layers 130A and 130B may be located between the substrate 111' and each battery cell assembly 120'. Resin layer 130A may be spaced apart from resin layer 130B in the Y direction, and a groove 111G is located between resin layers 130A and 130B. Resin layer 130A may overlap with the second flow path 142' and the fourth flow path 144' in the Z direction. Resin layer 130B may overlap with the first flow path 141' and the third flow path 143' in the Z direction. According to one embodiment, the upper surfaces of resin layer 130A, resin layer 130B, and the first portion P1 of the lifting band 128 may be at substantially the same level in the Z direction.

[0128] This disclosure has been described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. However, since the configurations described in the drawings or the embodiments described herein are merely one embodiment of this disclosure and do not represent the entire technical concept of this disclosure, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist that can replace them at the time of filing this application.

Claims

1. A battery pack, comprising: The battery pack housing includes a substrate, a central beam extending on the substrate in a first direction, a first crossbeam extending in a second direction and intersecting the central beam, and a sidewall surrounding the central beam and the first crossbeam. A battery cell assembly includes battery cells arranged along the first direction on the substrate; as well as The first resin layer is located between the mounting surface of the substrate and the battery cell assembly. The substrate includes a solvent flow path recessed from the mounting surface, and The solvent flow path overlaps with the first resin layer in a third direction perpendicular to each of the first and second directions.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The solvent flow path includes: A first flow path extends in the first direction; and The second flow paths are each connected to the first flow path and spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

3. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein, The solvent flow path also includes: Each of the third flow paths is connected to the first flow path and is spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The third flow path is located on the opposite side of the second flow path in the second direction, and the first flow path is located between the second flow path and the third flow path.

4. The battery pack according to claim 3, wherein, The second flow path and the third flow path alternate in the first direction.

5. The battery pack according to claim 3, wherein, Each of the second flow paths is spaced apart from the sidewall and the central beam, and Each of the third flow paths is spaced apart from the sidewall and the central beam.

6. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein, The first crossbeam includes a solvent injection port connected to one end of the first flow path in the first direction.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, further comprising: A second crossbeam extends in the second direction and intersects the central beam. The second crossbeam is spaced apart from the first crossbeam in the first direction, and the battery cell assembly is located between the first crossbeam and the second crossbeam. The second crossbeam includes a solvent injection port connected to the other end of the first flow path in the first direction.

8. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein, The battery cell assembly includes: A first side beam and a second side beam, the first side beam and the second side beam being spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and the battery cell being located between the first side beam and the second side beam; and The lifting strap connects the first side beam and the second side beam. The lifting band includes: The first part is located between the battery cell and the substrate; The second part connects to the first part and overlaps with the first side beam in the first direction; and The third part is connected to the first part and overlaps with the second side beam in the first direction.

9. The battery pack according to claim 8, wherein, The solvent flow path includes: The first flow path extends in the first direction; A second flow path extends in the first direction and is spaced apart from the first flow path in the second direction; Third flow paths, each connected to the first flow path and spaced apart from each other in the first direction; and The fourth flow path is connected to the second flow path and spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

10. The battery pack according to claim 9, wherein, The third flow path and the fourth flow path are spaced apart in the second direction.

11. The battery pack according to claim 9, wherein, The mounting surface of the substrate further includes a groove for receiving the first portion of the lifting strap, and The third flow path and the fourth flow path are spaced apart in the second direction, and the groove is located between the third flow path and the fourth flow path.

12. The battery pack according to claim 9, further comprising: Second resin layer, Wherein, the first resin layer overlaps with the first flow path and the third flow path in the third direction, and The second resin layer overlaps with the second flow path and the fourth flow path in the third direction.

13. The battery pack according to claim 9, wherein, The battery cell assembly is located between the first sidewall and the central beam. The first sidewall includes a solvent injection port connected to the first flow path, and The central beam includes a solvent injection port connected to the second flow path.

14. A battery pack housing, comprising: substrate; as well as A beam extending in one direction on the substrate. The substrate includes a first solvent flow path recessed from the mounting surface, and The beam includes a first solvent injection hole connected to the first solvent flow path.

15. The battery pack housing according to claim 14, wherein, The substrate further includes a second solvent flow path that is recessed from the mounting surface and separated from the first solvent flow path. The beam also includes a second solvent injection hole connected to the second solvent flow path, and The second solvent injection hole is separated from the first solvent injection hole.

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