Electrode assembly and secondary battery including the same

Abstract

Disclosed are an electrode assembly and a secondary battery including the same. The electrode assembly includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator for separating the first electrode and the second electrode, being bent to form insertion portions to accommodate the first electrode and the second electrode, respectively, and including a first separator portion at a lowermost portion, a second separator portion at an uppermost portion and joined to the first separator portion, and a third separator portion between the first separator portion and the second separator portion.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0050005, filed on April 17, 2025, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments relate to an electrode assembly and a secondary battery. Background Technology

[0003] Unlike primary batteries, which are not designed for (re)charging, secondary (or rechargeable) batteries are designed to discharge and be recharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in portable small electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders, while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for driving motors in hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as for storing electricity (e.g., household and / or utility-scale power storage). A secondary battery typically comprises an electrode assembly consisting of positive and negative electrodes, a housing containing the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0004] The information disclosed in this section is intended only to enhance understanding of the context of the disclosure, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The embodiments provide a secondary battery with improved safety.

[0006] An electrode assembly according to one or more embodiments includes: a first electrode; a second electrode; and a diaphragm for separating the first electrode and the second electrode, bent to form insertion portions for receiving the first electrode and the second electrode respectively, and including a first diaphragm portion at the lowermost portion, a second diaphragm portion at the uppermost portion and joined to the first diaphragm portion, and a third diaphragm portion between the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion.

[0007] The first diaphragm portion may include a first support portion, wherein the second diaphragm portion includes a second support portion and a second extension portion that bends from an end of the second support portion and engages with the first support portion.

[0008] The electrode assembly may also include an adhesive member that joins the second extension and the first support.

[0009] The first diaphragm portion may include a first end, the first end including the end of a first support portion, wherein the second diaphragm portion includes a second end, the second end being joined to the first diaphragm portion and including the end of a second extension portion.

[0010] The second extension and the first support can be joined by thermal fusion.

[0011] The first diaphragm portion may include a first end, which is engaged with the second diaphragm portion and includes an end portion of a first support portion, wherein the second diaphragm portion includes a second end, which is engaged with the first diaphragm portion and includes an end portion of a second extension portion.

[0012] The diaphragm may include an overlapping area where a second extension and a portion of a first support are superimposed.

[0013] The first electrode may include a lowermost first electrode below the first support and an uppermost first electrode above the second support and having a different size from the lowermost first electrode.

[0014] The width or length of the bottom first electrode can be smaller than the width or length of the top first electrode.

[0015] The first diaphragm portion may include a first support portion and a first extension portion bent from the end of the first support portion, wherein the second diaphragm portion includes a second support portion and a second extension portion bent from the end of the second support portion and joined to the first extension portion.

[0016] The electrode assembly may also include an adhesive member that joins the first extension and the second extension.

[0017] The first extension and the second extension can be joined by thermal fusion.

[0018] The diaphragm may include a stacked area of ​​a first extension and a second extension.

[0019] The first diaphragm section, the second diaphragm section, and the third diaphragm section can be integrated as one unit.

[0020] An electrode assembly according to one or more embodiments includes: a first electrode; a second electrode; and a diaphragm, bent between the first electrode and the second electrode to form an insertion portion for receiving the first electrode and the second electrode respectively, and including a first diaphragm portion at a lowermost portion, a second diaphragm portion at an uppermost portion, and a third diaphragm portion between the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion and joined to at least one of the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion.

[0021] The first diaphragm portion may include a first support portion and a first extension portion bent from an end of the first support portion, wherein the second diaphragm portion includes a second support portion and a second extension portion bent from an end of the second support portion, and wherein at least one of the first extension portion and the second extension portion is engaged with at least one bent portion of the third diaphragm portion.

[0022] The first extension can be engaged with the first curved portion of the third diaphragm portion, wherein the second extension is engaged with the second curved portion of the third diaphragm portion.

[0023] The first extension and the second extension can be joined to the same bend of the third diaphragm portion as at least one bend.

[0024] The first extension can be engaged with the curved portion of the third diaphragm portion, wherein the second extension is engaged with the first extension.

[0025] A secondary battery according to one or more embodiments includes a housing and an electrode assembly in the housing, the electrode assembly including: a first electrode; a second electrode; and a separator for separating the first electrode and the second electrode, bent to form insertion portions for receiving the first electrode and the second electrode respectively, and including a first separator portion at a lowermost portion, a second separator portion at an uppermost portion and joined to the first separator portion, and a third separator portion between the first separator portion and the second separator portion. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred embodiments, are included in this specification and are used to further illustrate the disclosed technical ideas in conjunction with the detailed description of the following exemplary embodiments. The disclosure is not to be construed as being limited to what is shown in these drawings.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a secondary battery according to one or more embodiments.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of an electrode assembly according to one or more embodiments.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a side view of the electrode assembly based on the comparative example.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a bottom view of an electrode assembly according to one or more embodiments.

[0031] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates the connection of the diaphragm section.

[0032] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the bonding of the diaphragm of an electrode assembly according to one or more embodiments.

[0033] Figures 7 to 12 This is a side view of an electrode assembly according to one or more other embodiments.

[0034] Figure 13 and Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing a battery pack including a battery module according to some embodiments.

[0035] Figure 15 and Figure 16 These are perspective and side views of a vehicle including a battery pack according to some embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Aspects of some embodiments of this disclosure and methods of implementing them can be more readily understood by referring to the detailed description and accompanying drawings of the embodiments. The described embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey aspects of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. Therefore, redundant processes, elements, and techniques that are irrelevant or unrelated to the description of the embodiments, or that are not essential for a complete understanding of aspects of this disclosure by those skilled in the art, may be omitted. Unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals, characters, or combinations thereof denote the same elements throughout the drawings and written description, and therefore, their repeated description may be omitted.

[0037] The described embodiments may have various modifications and may be embodied in different forms, and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments shown herein. The use of “may,” “can,” or “may not” in describing embodiments corresponds to one or more embodiments of this disclosure.

[0038] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that, in view of the entirety of this disclosure, each suitable feature of the various embodiments of this disclosure may be combined or integrated with each other in part or in whole, and may be technically interlocked and operated in a variety of suitable manners, and unless otherwise stated or implied, each embodiment may be implemented independently or in combination with each other in any suitable manner.

[0039] In the accompanying drawings, the relative dimensions of elements, layers, and regions may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. In other words, the disclosure is not limited thereto because the dimensions and thicknesses of the elements in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for ease of description. Additionally, the use of crosshairs and / or shading in the drawings is generally provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for the specific material, material properties, dimensions, scale, commonalities and / or any other characteristics, properties, etc., of the elements shown.

[0040] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views that serve as schematic diagrams of examples and / or intermediate structures. Thus, variations in the illustrated shapes will be expected due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Furthermore, the specific structural or functional descriptions disclosed herein are merely illustrative for the purpose of describing embodiments according to the concept of this disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the shapes shown for elements, layers, or regions, but rather include shape deviations caused, for example, by manufacturing processes.

[0041] For ease of explanation, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “lower,” “lower side,” “below,” “above,” “upper,” “above,” “higher,” “upper side,” “side” (e.g., as in “sidewall”) are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature as shown in the figures and another element(s). It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures, the spatial relative terms are also intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below,” “under,” or “below” other elements or features will subsequently be oriented “above” said other elements or features. Thus, the example terms “below” and “below” can cover both above and below orientations. The device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, if the first component is described as being arranged "on" the second component, this indicates that the first component is arranged on the upper or lower side of the second component, and not limited to the upper side based on the direction of gravity.

[0042] Furthermore, the phrase "in a plan view" refers to a portion of an object viewed from above, while the phrase "in a schematic sectional view" refers to a schematic section taken by vertically cutting through a portion of an object viewed from the side. The term "overlay" or variations thereof means that the first object may be above, below, or to the side of the second object, or vice versa. Additionally, the term "overlay" can include stacking, facing or oriented, extending over, covering or partially covering, or any other suitable term as will be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The expression "not overlay" can include meanings such as "spaced apart from," "separated from," or "offset from," and any other suitable equivalent meaning as will be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terms "facing" and "oriented" can mean that the first object may be directly or indirectly opposite the second object. In the case where a third object is located between the first and second objects, the first and second objects can be understood as indirectly opposite each other, although still facing each other.

[0043] It will be understood that if an element, layer, region, or component (e.g., device, apparatus, circuit, line, electrode, terminal, conductive film, etc.) is referred to as being "formed on," "on," "connected to," or "(operably, functionally, or communicatively) bonded to" another element, layer, region, or component, then it can be directly formed on, directly on, directly connected to, or directly bonded to another element, layer, region, or component, or indirectly formed on, indirectly on, indirectly connected to, or indirectly bonded to another element, layer, region, or component, such that one or more intermediary elements, layers, regions, or components may be present. Furthermore, this can be collectively referred to as direct or indirect bonding or connection, and integral or non-integral bonding or connection. For example, if a layer, region, or component is referred to as being "electrically connected" or "electrically bonded" to another layer, region, or component, then it can be directly electrically connected or directly electrically bonded to another layer, region, and / or component, or one or more intermediary layers, regions, or components may be present. One or more intermediary components may include switches, transistors, resistors, inductors, capacitors, diodes, etc. Therefore, the connection is not limited to the connections shown in the accompanying drawings or detailed description, but may include other types of connections. In describing embodiments, unless explicitly described as a direct connection, the expression for a connection indicates an electrical connection; "direct connection / direct bonding" or "directly on" means that one component is directly connected to or directly bonded to another component, or directly on another component, without any intermediate components.

[0044] Furthermore, in this specification, if a portion of a layer, film, region, plate, etc., is formed on another portion, the forming direction is not limited to the upward direction, but includes forming the portion on a side surface or in the downward direction. Conversely, if a portion of a layer, film, region, plate, etc., is formed "below" another portion, this includes not only the case where the portion is "directly below" the other portion, but also the case where there is another portion between the portion and the other portion. Similarly, other expressions describing the relationship between components, such as "between," "immediately between," or "adjacent to," and "directly adjacent to," can be interpreted similarly. It will be understood that if an element or layer is referred to as "between" two elements or layers, it can be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or there can be one or more intervening elements or layers.

[0045] For the purposes of this disclosure, when expressions such as “at least one of…” or “any one of…” or “one or more of…” follow a list of elements, they modify the entire list of elements without modifying any individual elements within that list. For example, “at least one of X, Y, and Z”, “at least one of X, Y, or Z”, “at least one of the group consisting of X, Y, and Z”, and “at least one of the group consisting of X, Y, or Z” can be interpreted as any combination of two or more of X, Y, Z only (such as XYZ, XY, YZ, and XZ) or any variations thereof. Similarly, expressions “at least one of A and B” and “at least one of A or B” can include A and B or A and B. As used herein, “or” generally means “and / or”, and the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items. For example, the expression “A and / or B” can include A, B, or A and B. Similarly, expressions such as “at least one of…”, “multiple (species / beings)”, “one of…”, and other prepositional phrases modify the entire class of elements, not the individual elements in that class, when they precede or follow a list of elements. When “C to D” is stated, unless otherwise specified, it means C or greater and D or less.

[0046] It will be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms do not correspond to a specific order, position, or priority, but are used only to distinguish one element, component, assembly, region, area, layer, section, or part from another. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the first element, first assembly, first region, first layer, or first part described below may be referred to as a second element, second assembly, second region, second layer, or second part. Describing an element as a “first” element does not require or imply the existence of a second element or other elements. The terms “first,” “second,” etc., may also be used herein to distinguish different categories or groups of elements. For the sake of brevity, the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may respectively mean “first category (or first group),” “second category (or second group),” etc.

[0047] In this example, the x-axis, y-axis, and / or z-axis are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system, but can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis can be perpendicular to each other, or they can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. The same applies to the first direction, the second direction, and / or the third direction.

[0048] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. The terms or words used in this specification and claims are not to be construed as having a general or dictionary meaning, but should be interpreted as consistent with the meanings and concepts of this disclosure, based on the inventor's ability to be their own lexicographer to appropriately define the concepts of the terms in order to best describe the embodiments.

[0049] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “an (kind / one)” are intended to include the plural forms, and the plural forms are intended to include the singular forms. It will also be understood that when the terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and variations thereof are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0050] When one or more embodiments can be implemented differently, a particular process sequence can be performed in a different order than that described. For example, two consecutively described processes can be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their description.

[0051] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree and are intended to explain the inherent deviations of measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, “substantially” can include a range of + / - 5% of the corresponding value. As used herein, “about” or “approximately” includes the stated value and refers to an acceptable range of deviations from the stated value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, taking into account the measurement in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system). For example, “about” can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the stated value. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of this disclosure, the use of “may” refers to “one or more embodiments of this disclosure.” Additionally, the expression “identical” can mean “substantially identical.” In other words, the expression “identical” can include a range that is tolerable by one of ordinary skill in the art. Other expressions may also omit the word “substantially.”

[0052] Furthermore, any numerical range disclosed and / or described herein is intended to include all subranges with the same numerical precision contained within the described range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between the described minimum value 1.0 and the described maximum value 10.0 (and including both the described minimum value 1.0 and the described maximum value 10.0), i.e., having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit described herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit described in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification and the claims to expressly describe any subranges contained within the range expressly described herein.

[0053] The electronic or electrical devices and / or any other related devices or components according to embodiments of the present disclosure described herein can be implemented using any suitable hardware, firmware (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits), software, or a combination of software, firmware, and hardware to process data or digital signals. For example, various components of such devices can be formed on an integrated circuit (IC) chip or a separate IC chip. Furthermore, various components of such devices can be implemented on a flexible printed circuit film, a tape-on-a-package (TCP), a printed circuit board (PCB), or formed on a substrate. The circuit hardware may include, for example, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), general-purpose or special-purpose central processing units (CPUs) configured to execute instructions stored in a non-transitory storage medium, digital signal processors (DSPs), graphics processing units (GPUs), and programmable logic devices (such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs)).

[0054] Software components can refer to data and / or the executable code itself that can be addressed and accessed in a storage medium for use by executable code. Therefore, software components can be, for example, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, and can include processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, program code segments, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, or variables. Furthermore, the various components of these devices can be processes or threads that execute computer program instructions and interact with other system components to perform the various functions described herein, running on one or more processors in one or more computing devices. The computer program instructions are stored in memory, which can be implemented in the computing device using standard memory devices such as random access memory (RAM). The computer program instructions can also be stored in other non-transitory computer-readable media such as CD-ROMs, flash drives, etc. Moreover, those skilled in the art will recognize that the functionality of various computing devices can be combined or integrated into a single computing device, or the functionality of a particular computing device can be distributed across one or more other computing devices without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0055] In some embodiments, well-known structures and arrangements may be described in the accompanying drawings relating to one or more functional blocks (e.g., block diagrams), units, and / or modules to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that such blocks, units, and / or modules are physically implemented by logic circuitry, individual components, microprocessors, hardwired circuitry, memory elements, wiring connections, and other electronic circuitry. This can be formed using semiconductor-like manufacturing techniques or other manufacturing techniques. Blocks, units, and / or modules implemented by microprocessors or other similar hardware can be programmed and controlled using software to perform the various functions discussed herein, optionally driven by firmware and / or software. Additionally, each block, unit, and / or module may be implemented by dedicated hardware or a combination of dedicated hardware performing some functions and processors performing functions different from those of the dedicated hardware (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry). Furthermore, in some embodiments, blocks, units, and / or modules may be physically divided into two or more interacting individual blocks, units, and / or modules without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In addition, in some embodiments, blocks, units and / or modules may be physically combined into more complex blocks, units and / or modules without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0056] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will also be understood that terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the relevant field and / or in the context of this specification, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly defined herein.

[0057] In the following description, electrode assemblies and secondary batteries according to one or more embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] Reference Figure 1 The secondary battery 1000 according to one or more embodiments may include a housing 100 and an electrode assembly 200.

[0059] The housing 100 may include a receiving portion 110 and a cap portion 120. The receiving portion 110 and the cap portion 120 may be connected. The housing 100 may be formed in the shape of a bag.

[0060] The receiving portion 110 may include a recess 111 and a first sealing region 112. The receiving portion 110 may include or define a receiving space. Specifically, the receiving portion 110 may include a bottom surface and an inner surface formed by the recess 111. The receiving space may be formed by the bottom surface and the inner surface.

[0061] The first sealing region 112 can be positioned at the edge of the receiving portion 110. The sealing layer can be positioned in the first sealing region 112.

[0062] The cap 120 may include a cover 121 and a second sealing region 122.

[0063] The cover 121 can cover the receiving portion 110. Specifically, the cover 121 can cover the electrode assembly 200 housed in the receiving portion 110.

[0064] The second sealing region 122 can be positioned at the edge of the cap 120. A sealing layer can be positioned in the second sealing region 122. The first sealing region 112 and the second sealing region 122 can overlap. Specifically, if the receiving portion 110 is covered by the cap 120, the first sealing region 112 and the second sealing region 122 can face each other. The receiving portion 110 and the cap 120 can be joined by the sealing layer.

[0065] The electrode assembly 200 can be housed within the housing 100. For example, the electrode assembly 200 can be housed within a receiving space of the housing. For example, the electrode assembly 200 can be housed together with the electrolyte within the receiving space.

[0066] In the accompanying drawings, although one electrode assembly is shown as being housed within a housing, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Two or more electrode assemblies may be housed within the housing.

[0067] The electrode assembly 200 may include a first electrode 210, a second electrode 220, and a diaphragm 230.

[0068] The first electrode 210 may include a first current collector 211 and a first active material layer 212 on the first current collector 211. The first current collector may include a metal foil such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The first active material layer may include a transition metal oxide. For example, the first electrode 210 may be a positive electrode.

[0069] The first electrode 210 may be connected to the electrode tab 300 (e.g., the first electrode tab 310). The first active material layer is not positioned on the first electrode tab 310, or is omitted from the first electrode tab 310. The first electrode tab 310 may be soldered to a first current collector on which the first active material layer is not positioned. In one or more embodiments, the first electrode tab 310 may be integral with the first current collector. For example, the first current collector may include a first uncoated portion without a positioned first active material layer. The first uncoated portion may be notched. The first electrode tab 310 may be formed from the first uncoated portion. The first electrode tab 310 may comprise the same material as the first current collector. The first electrode tab 310 may be a substrate tab.

[0070] The second electrode 220 may include a second current collector 221 and a second active material layer 222 on the second current collector 221. The second current collector may include a metal foil such as copper, a copper alloy, nickel, or a nickel alloy. The second active material layer may include graphite or carbon. For example, the second electrode 220 may be a negative electrode.

[0071] The second electrode 220 may be connected to the electrode tab 300 (e.g., the second electrode tab 320). The second active material layer is not positioned on the second electrode tab 320, or is omitted from the second electrode tab 320. The second electrode tab 320 may be soldered to a second current collector on which the second active material layer is not positioned. In one or more embodiments, the second electrode tab 320 may be integral with the second current collector. For example, the second current collector may include a second uncoated portion on which the second active material layer is not positioned. The second uncoated portion may be notched. The second electrode tab 320 may be formed from the second uncoated portion. The second electrode tab 320 may comprise the same material as the second current collector. The second electrode tab 320 may be a substrate tab.

[0072] The first electrode tab 310 and the second electrode tab 320 can each be connected to a lead. For example, the first electrode tab 310 can be connected to a first lead 410. The first electrode tab 310 can be connected to a first external terminal via the first lead 410. The second electrode tab 320 can be connected to a second lead 420. The second electrode tab 320 can be connected to a second external terminal via the second lead 420. The first lead 410 can be made of the same material as the first electrode tab. The second lead 420 can be made of the same material as the second electrode tab. The electrode tabs 310, 320 and the leads 410, 420 can be joined by soldering.

[0073] An insulating layer may be positioned on the lead. For example, a first insulating layer 510 may be positioned on the first lead 410. The first insulating layer 510 may surround a portion of the first lead 410. A second insulating layer 520 may be positioned on the second lead 420. The second insulating layer 520 may surround a portion of the second lead 420. The lead 400 may be insulated from the housing 100 by the insulating layer 500. The lead 400 and the housing 100 may be suitably joined by the insulating layer 500 and the sealing layer. The first lead 410 and the second lead 420 may be insulated by the insulating layer 500.

[0074] like Figure 2 As shown, the electrode assembly 200 can be formed in a stacked manner. For example, the electrode assembly 200 can be formed in a Z-stack manner. In detail, the diaphragm 230 can be supplied in roll form, and the diaphragm 230 can be unfolded while being bent. The diaphragm 230 can be unfolded while forming multiple insertion portions IA.

[0075] The first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 can be sequentially inserted into the insertion portion IA, respectively. The diaphragm 230 can be stacked to be positioned between the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220. Subsequently, pressure can be applied to the electrode assembly 200.

[0076] Figure 3 This is a side view of the electrode assembly based on the comparative example. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The diaphragm 230 includes a first end E1 and a second end E2.

[0077] The first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 can be stacked sequentially. The first electrode 210 or the second electrode 220 can be positioned at the bottommost and topmost parts of the electrode assembly 200, respectively.

[0078] The first terminal E1 and the second terminal E2 are exposed to the outside of the electrode assembly. The first terminal E1 and the second terminal E2 may be damaged by external heat. For example, if the secondary battery is exposed to a high-temperature environment, the first terminal E1 and the second terminal E2 may shrink, which may cause the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220 to short-circuit.

[0079] One or more embodiments can reduce the shrinkage of the first terminal E1 and the second terminal E2, reduce or prevent the possibility of a short circuit between the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220, and improve the safety of the secondary battery including the electrode assembly.

[0080] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 4 to 11 Describes an electrode assembly according to one or more embodiments.

[0081] Reference Figures 4 to 6 The diaphragm 230 can be divided into multiple diaphragm portions according to their positions. For example, the diaphragm 230 may include a first diaphragm portion 231, a second diaphragm portion 232, and a third diaphragm portion 233. The third diaphragm portion 233 may include multiple bends BP.

[0082] The first diaphragm section 231, the second diaphragm section 232, and the third diaphragm section 233 can be connected by the bending portion BP. The first diaphragm section 231, the second diaphragm section 232, and the third diaphragm section 233 can be integral.

[0083] The first diaphragm portion 231 can be positioned at the lowest part of the electrode assembly 200. The second diaphragm portion 232 can be positioned at the highest part of the electrode assembly 200. The third diaphragm portion 233 can be positioned between the first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232.

[0084] The first diaphragm portion 231 may include a first end E1. The second diaphragm portion 232 may include a second end E2. The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 may each include a support portion and / or an extension portion.

[0085] The first diaphragm portion 231 may include a first support portion 231a. The first end E1 may be the end of the first support portion 231a. The first support portion 231a may support the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220. The first support portion 231a may be positioned between the first electrode 210 (e.g., the first electrode 210a) and the second electrode 220.

[0086] The second diaphragm portion 232 may include a second support portion 232a and a second extension portion 232b. The second support portion 232a and the second extension portion 232b are separated by a boundary line BL, which contacts the end of the curved portion BP of the diaphragm 230. The second support portion 232a is positioned inside the boundary line BL, and the second extension portion 232b is positioned outside the boundary line BL. The second extension portion 232b is positioned outside the curved portion BP.

[0087] The second support portion 232a can support the first electrode 210 and the second electrode 220. The second support portion 232a can be positioned between the first electrode 210 (e.g., the first electrode 210b) and the second electrode 220. The second extension portion 232b can be bent and extended from the end of the second support portion 232a. For example, the second extension portion 232b can be bent for the first time in the thickness direction of the electrode assembly and for the second time in the extension direction of the electrode assembly. The second end E2 can be the end of the second extension portion 232b.

[0088] After the first electrode 210 (e.g., first electrode 210b) is positioned on the uppermost portion of the electrode assembly 200, the diaphragm 230 can be further extended to a corresponding length (e.g., a predetermined length). For example, the diaphragm 230 can be further extended to a length substantially equal to or greater than the thickness of the electrode assembly. The second diaphragm portion 232 may include a second extension 232b.

[0089] The second diaphragm portion 232 can cover the first end E1. Specifically, the second extension portion 232b can cover the first end E1.

[0090] The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be stacked. The second extension portion 232b can be stacked with a portion of the first support portion 231a.

[0091] The diaphragm 230 may include a stacked region OA of a first diaphragm portion 231 and a second diaphragm portion 232. The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 may be in contact with each other at the stacked region OA, or they may be spaced apart from each other at the stacked region OA.

[0092] The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined at the lower part of the electrode assembly 200.

[0093] For example, refer to Figure 4 The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined by the adhesive member 600. The second extension portion 232b and the first support portion 231a can be joined by the adhesive member 600. The adhesive member 600 can cover the second end E2. The second end E2 can be joined to the first diaphragm portion 231.

[0094] The adhesive component 600 may include a resin material. For example, the adhesive component 600 may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or acrylic resin.

[0095] Reference Figure 5 The second diaphragm portion 232 may cover the first end E1 of the first diaphragm portion 231. The adhesive member 600 may cover the second end E2. For example, as Figure 5As shown in part (a), the adhesive member 600 may cover a portion of the second end E2. In one or more embodiments, as Figure 5 As shown in part (b), the adhesive member 600 can cover the entire area of ​​the second end E2.

[0096] In one or more embodiments, reference is made to Figure 6 The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be directly joined. The second extension portion 232b and the first support portion 231a can also be directly joined. Specifically, the first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be thermally fused. For example, the first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined through the overlapping region OA. The first end E1 can be joined to the second diaphragm portion 232. The second end E2 can be joined to the first diaphragm portion 231. The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined without a separate adhesive member.

[0097] The first electrode 210 or the second electrode 220 can be positioned at the uppermost and lowermost portions of the electrode assembly 200. For example, the first electrode 210 can be positioned at the uppermost and lowermost portions of the electrode assembly 200. The lowermost first electrode 210a can be positioned below the first support portion 231a. The uppermost first electrode 210b can be positioned on or above the second support portion 232a.

[0098] The dimensions of the lowermost first electrode 210a and the uppermost first electrode 210b can be different. For example, the lowermost first electrode 210a can be smaller than the uppermost first electrode 210b. Specifically, the width of the lowermost first electrode 210a can be smaller than the width of the uppermost first electrode 210b. For example, the width of the lowermost first electrode 210a can be at least about 3 mm smaller than the width of the uppermost first electrode 210b.

[0099] In one or more embodiments, the length of the lowermost first electrode 210a may be less than the length of the uppermost first electrode 210b. For example, the length of the lowermost first electrode 210a may be at least about 3 mm smaller than the length of the uppermost first electrode 210b.

[0100] The lowermost first electrode 210a and the second end E2 can be spaced apart. The lowermost first electrode 210a and the second extension 232b can be spaced apart. A space can be formed in which the first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined. If the first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 are thermally joined, damage to the first active material layer 212 due to heat can be reduced or prevented.

[0101] An electrode assembly according to one or more embodiments includes a diaphragm. The diaphragm includes a first diaphragm portion and a second diaphragm portion. The first diaphragm portion includes a first end, and the second diaphragm portion includes a second end. The second diaphragm portion is bent toward the first diaphragm portion. The first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion are joined at a lower portion of the electrode assembly. The second end may be joined to the first diaphragm portion. In one or more embodiments, the first end may be joined to the second diaphragm portion, and the second end may be joined to the first diaphragm portion.

[0102] According to the embodiments, the shrinkage of the diaphragm due to heat can be reduced or prevented. Specifically, the shrinkage of the first and second ends can be reduced or prevented, short circuits between the first and second electrodes can be reduced or prevented, and the possibility of explosion of the secondary battery including the electrode assembly can be reduced or prevented.

[0103] The electrode assembly includes a lowermost first electrode and a highermost first electrode. The lowermost first electrode may be smaller than the highermost first electrode. For example, the length or width of the lowermost first electrode may be smaller than the length or width of the highermost first electrode. The second end and the lowermost first electrode may be spaced apart from each other. A space may be formed in which the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion can engage. Furthermore, if the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion engage with each other, damage to the lowermost first electrode can be reduced or prevented. The secondary battery including the electrode assembly can have improved reliability.

[0104] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 7 to 11 Electrode assemblies according to one or more other embodiments are described. Commonalities with the above-described one or more embodiments will be omitted. Constructions identical to those in one or more embodiments will be given the same reference numerals.

[0105] Reference Figure 7 The first diaphragm portion 231 may include a first support portion 231a and a first extension portion 231b. The first support portion 231a and the first extension portion 231b are separated by a boundary line BL, which contacts the end of the curved portion BP of the diaphragm 230. The first support portion 231a is positioned inside the boundary line BL, and the first extension portion 231b is positioned outside the boundary line BL. The first extension portion 231b is positioned outside the curved portion BP.

[0106] The first extension 231b can be bent and extended from the end of the first support 231a. For example, the first extension 231b can be bent in the thickness direction of the electrode assembly. The first end E1 can be the end of the first extension 231b.

[0107] The second diaphragm portion 232 may include a second support portion 232a and a second extension portion 232b. The second extension portion 232b may be bent and extend from the end of the second support portion 232a. For example, the second extension portion 232b may be bent in the thickness direction of the electrode assembly. The second end E2 may be the end of the second extension portion 232b.

[0108] The first extension 231b and the second extension 232b may have the same or similar lengths. In one or more embodiments, the first extension 231b and the second extension 232b may have different lengths.

[0109] The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 may partially overlap each other. Specifically, the first extension portion 231b and the second extension portion 232b may partially overlap each other. For example, the second diaphragm portion 232 may externally cover the first end E1. In one or more embodiments, the first diaphragm portion 231 may externally cover the second end E2. The diaphragm 230 may include an overlapping region OA of the first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232.

[0110] The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined together. For example, the overlapping region OA can be thermally fused together. The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined together through the overlapping region OA.

[0111] In one or more embodiments, the first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined by an adhesive member. For example, the adhesive member can cover either the first end or the second end. The first end and the second diaphragm portion can be joined by the adhesive member. In one or more embodiments, the second end and the first diaphragm portion can be joined by the adhesive member.

[0112] The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined at the side of the electrode assembly 200.

[0113] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 do not overlap and do not contact each other. Specifically, the first extension portion 231b and the second extension portion 232b do not overlap.

[0114] Reference Figures 8 to 10 At least one of the first diaphragm portion 231 or the second diaphragm portion 232 may be joined to the third diaphragm portion 233.

[0115] Reference Figure 8The first diaphragm portion 231 can be joined to the third diaphragm portion 233. Specifically, the first extension portion 231b can be joined to the first curved portion BP1 of the third diaphragm portion 233. For example, the first extension portion 231b and the first curved portion BP1 can be joined by thermal fusion. In one or more embodiments, the first extension portion 231b and the first curved portion BP1 can be joined by an adhesive member.

[0116] The second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined to the third diaphragm portion 233. Specifically, the second extension portion 232b can be joined to the second curved portion BP2 of the third diaphragm portion 233. For example, the second extension portion 232b and the second curved portion BP2 can be joined by thermal fusion. In one or more embodiments, the second extension portion 232b and the second curved portion BP2 can be joined by an adhesive member.

[0117] Reference Figure 9 The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined to the third diaphragm portion 233. Specifically, the first extension portion 231b and the second extension portion 232b can be joined to the curved portion BP of the third diaphragm portion 233. The first extension portion 231b and the second extension portion 232b can be joined to the same curved portion BP. The first extension portion 231b, the second extension portion 232b, and the curved portion BP can be joined.

[0118] For example, the first extension 231b, the second extension 232b, and the bent portion BP can be joined by thermal fusion. In one or more embodiments, the first extension 231b, the second extension 232b, and the bent portion BP can be joined by an adhesive member.

[0119] Reference Figure 10 The first diaphragm portion 231, the second diaphragm portion 232, and the third diaphragm portion 233 can be joined. Specifically, the second extension portion 232b can be joined to the curved portion BP of the third diaphragm portion 233. The first extension portion 231b can be joined to the second extension portion 232b. The first extension portion 231b, the second extension portion 232b, and the curved portion BP can be joined. In another embodiment, the first extension portion 231b can be joined to the curved portion BP of the third diaphragm portion 233, and the second extension portion 232b can be joined to the first extension portion 231b.

[0120] The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 can be joined to the third diaphragm portion 233 at the side of the electrode assembly 200.

[0121] The bottommost first electrode 210a and the topmost first electrode 210b can have the same or similar dimensions. The first separator portion 231 and the second separator portion 232 can be joined to the third separator portion 233 at the side of the electrode assembly 200, respectively. The size of the bottommost first electrode 210a does not need to be reduced to allow the first separator portion 231 and the second separator portion 232 to join. The topmost and bottommost electrodes of the electrode assembly can have the same or similar dimensions. The secondary battery can have improved capacity.

[0122] Because the first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 are joined at the side of the electrode assembly 200, damage to the bottommost first electrode during the joining process can be reduced or prevented.

[0123] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 The first diaphragm portion 231 and the second diaphragm portion 232 do not overlap and do not contact each other. Specifically, the first extension portion 231b and the second extension portion 232b do not overlap and do not contact each other.

[0124] Reference Figure 11 The first extension 231b is bendable. Specifically, the first extension 231b is bendable such that the first end E1 is positioned on the first support 231a. The first support 231a and the first extension 231b can form a first overlapping region OA1.

[0125] The first support portion 231a and the first extension portion 231b can be joined. For example, the first support portion 231a and the first extension portion 231b can be joined by thermal fusion. In one or more embodiments, the first support portion 231a and the first extension portion 231b can be joined by an adhesive member.

[0126] The second extension 232b is bendable. Specifically, the second extension 232b is bendable such that the second end E2 is positioned on the second support 232a. The second support 232a and the second extension 232b can form a second overlapping region OA2.

[0127] The second support portion 232a and the second extension portion 232b can be joined. For example, the second support portion 232a and the second extension portion 232b can be joined by thermal fusion. In one or more embodiments, the second support portion 232a and the second extension portion 232b can be joined by an adhesive member.

[0128] Reference Figure 12 The first extension 231b can be bent. Specifically, the first extension 231b can be bent in the thickness direction of the electrode assembly 200 (e.g., toward the upper part of the electrode assembly 200). In one or more embodiments, the first extension 231b is not engaged to another portion.

[0129] The second extension 232b can be bent. Specifically, the second extension 232b can be bent in the thickness direction of the electrode assembly 200 (e.g., toward the lower part of the electrode assembly 200). In one or more embodiments, the second extension 232b is not engaged to another portion.

[0130] The lowermost first electrode 210a and the uppermost first electrode 210b may have the same or similar dimensions. The first support portion and the first extension portion of the first diaphragm portion 231 may be joined. In one or more embodiments, the first support portion is not joined to another component. The second support portion and the second extension portion of the second diaphragm portion 232 may be joined. In one or more embodiments, the second support portion is not joined to another component.

[0131] The size of the bottommost first electrode 210a does not need to be reduced to minimize or prevent shrinkage of the first separator portion 231 and the second separator portion 232. The topmost and bottommost electrodes of the electrode assembly can have the same or similar dimensions. The secondary battery can have improved capacity and can reduce or prevent damage to the bottommost first electrode during the bonding process.

[0132] The above description describes the lowermost and uppermost electrodes of the electrode assembly as first electrodes. Although the above description describes the lowermost and uppermost electrodes of the electrode assembly as positive electrodes, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0133] Specifically, the bottommost and topmost electrodes of the electrode assembly can be second electrodes. The bottommost and topmost electrodes of the electrode assembly can also be negative electrodes.

[0134] The polarity of the bottom and top electrodes of the electrode assembly can vary depending on the material of the secondary battery casing.

[0135] For example, if housing 100 comprises aluminum (Al), housing 100 may be short-circuited to the second electrode. If housing 100 comprises aluminum (Al), the lowermost and uppermost electrodes of the electrode assembly may be the first electrode (positive electrode).

[0136] If housing 100 is made of stainless steel (SUS), housing 100 may be short-circuited to the first electrode. If housing 100 is made of stainless steel (SUS), the bottommost and topmost electrodes of the electrode assembly may be the second electrode (negative electrode).

[0137] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to examples and comparative examples. The following examples are intended to illustrate the present disclosure, but the present disclosure is not limited to the following examples.

[0138] Example As mentioned above Figure 4 and Figures 6 to 12 The electrode assembly is manufactured as shown. Subsequently, the shrinkage and wrinkling or rolling up of the diaphragm are measured.

[0139] Comparison Examples As mentioned above Figure 3 The electrode assembly is manufactured as shown. Subsequently, the shrinkage and wrinkling or rolling up of the diaphragm are measured.

[0140] Table 1

[0141] The diaphragm shrinkage was evaluated by holding the electrode assemblies from the example and comparative examples at approximately 137°C for approximately 30 minutes. The diaphragm wrinkling / rolling was evaluated 40 times at approximately 1.5 m. Five units were tested for each of the example and comparative examples.

[0142] Referring to Table 1, it can be seen that the electrode assembly according to the example does not exhibit diaphragm shrinkage, wrinkling, or curling. The ends of the diaphragm in the example are joined. This can reduce or prevent diaphragm shrinkage or wrinkling / curling due to heat and shock transmitted to the diaphragm. The electrode assembly according to the example can have improved safety and reliability.

[0143] The electrode assembly according to the example includes a diaphragm. The diaphragm includes a first diaphragm portion located at the bottom of the electrode assembly and a second diaphragm portion located at the top of the electrode assembly.

[0144] A first diaphragm portion includes a first end, and a second diaphragm portion includes a second end. The second diaphragm portion is bent toward the first diaphragm portion. The first and second diaphragm portions are joined at the lower portion of the electrode assembly. The second end may be joined to the first diaphragm portion. In one or more embodiments, the first end may be joined to the second diaphragm portion, and the second end may be joined to the first diaphragm portion.

[0145] It can reduce or prevent the diaphragm from shrinking due to heat. Specifically, it can reduce or prevent the shrinkage of the first and second ends, reduce or prevent the possibility of a short circuit between the first and second electrodes, and reduce or prevent the possibility of an explosion of the secondary battery including the electrode assembly.

[0146] The electrode assembly includes a lowermost first electrode and a highermost first electrode. The lowermost first electrode may be smaller than the highermost first electrode. For example, the length or width of the lowermost first electrode may be smaller than the length or width of the highermost first electrode. The second end and the lowermost first electrode may be spaced apart from each other. A space may be formed in which the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion can engage. If the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion engage, damage to the lowermost first electrode can be reduced or prevented. The secondary battery including the electrode assembly can have improved reliability.

[0147] Secondary batteries can be used in portable small electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders. Battery modules and battery packs comprising multiple secondary batteries can be used as power sources for motors in hybrid or electric vehicles and as batteries for storing electrical energy.

[0148] The aforementioned secondary batteries can form a battery module. For example, a battery module may include multiple secondary batteries. Multiple secondary batteries can be connected in series, in parallel, or in a series / parallel connection via busbars.

[0149] Figure 13 and Figure 14 A battery pack 3000 according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. The battery pack 3000 may include a plurality of battery modules 3200 and a housing 3100 for accommodating the plurality of battery modules 3200. For example, the housing 3100 may include a first housing 3110 and a second housing 3120 joined in opposite directions by the plurality of battery modules 3200. The plurality of battery modules 3200 may be electrically connected to each other using busbars 3500, and the plurality of battery modules 3200 may be electrically connected to each other in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel to obtain a desired (e.g., required or suitable) electrical output. In the drawings, components such as cooling units and external terminals for electrical connections to secondary batteries are omitted for ease of illustration. In one or more exemplary embodiments, the battery pack 3000 may be installed in a vehicle. The vehicle may be, or includes, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle may include a four-wheeled vehicle or a two-wheeled vehicle.

[0150] exist Figure 15 In this configuration, the battery pack 3000 may include a battery pack cover 3010 and a battery pack frame 3020. The battery pack cover 3010 is part of the vehicle floor 4100 and may correspond to a first housing. The battery pack frame 3020 is positioned below the vehicle floor 4100 and may correspond to a second housing. The battery pack cover 3010 and the battery pack frame 3020 may be formed together with the vehicle floor 4200 (e.g., integrally formed with the vehicle floor 4200). The vehicle floor 4100 separates the interior and exterior of the vehicle, and the battery pack frame 3020 may be positioned on the exterior of the vehicle.

[0151] exist Figure 16 In this embodiment, vehicle 4000 can be formed by incorporating additional components (such as an engine hood 4300 at the front of vehicle 4000 and fenders 4400 respectively positioned at the front and rear of vehicle 4000) into body components. Vehicle 4000 may include battery pack 3000, which includes battery pack cover 3010 and battery pack frame 3020, and battery pack 3000 can be integrated into body components.

[0152] The above are merely some embodiments for implementing the disclosed secondary battery. The disclosure is not limited to the above content. Various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains without departing from the concept claimed in the appended claims and its functional equivalents to be included therein.

Claims

1. An electrode assembly, the electrode assembly comprising: First electrode; Second electrode; as well as A diaphragm for separating the first electrode and the second electrode, bent to form an insertion portion that respectively accommodates the first electrode and the second electrode, and includes a first diaphragm portion at the lowest portion, a second diaphragm portion at the highest portion and joined to the first diaphragm portion, and a third diaphragm portion between the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion.

2. The electrode assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first diaphragm portion includes a first support portion, and The second diaphragm portion includes a second support portion and a second extension portion that bends from the end of the second support portion and joins to the first support portion.

3. The electrode assembly of claim 2, further comprising an adhesive member for joining the second extension and the first support.

4. The electrode assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The first diaphragm portion includes a first end, the first end including the end of the first support portion, and The second diaphragm portion includes a second end, which is joined to the first diaphragm portion and includes the end portion of the second extension portion.

5. The electrode assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The second extension and the first support are joined by thermal fusion.

6. The electrode assembly according to claim 5, wherein, The first diaphragm portion includes a first end, which is coupled to the second diaphragm portion and includes the end of the first support portion. The second diaphragm portion includes a second end, which is joined to the first diaphragm portion and includes the end portion of the second extension portion.

7. The electrode assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The diaphragm includes an overlapping area where the second extension and a portion of the first support overlap.

8. The electrode assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The first electrode includes a lowermost first electrode below the first support and an uppermost first electrode above the second support and having a different size from the lowermost first electrode.

9. The electrode assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The width or length of the bottommost first electrode is smaller than the width or length of the topmost first electrode.

10. The electrode assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first diaphragm portion includes a first support portion and a first extension portion that bends from the end of the first support portion, and The second diaphragm portion includes a second support portion and a second extension portion that bends from the end of the second support portion and joins to the first extension portion.

11. The electrode assembly of claim 10, further comprising an adhesive member for joining the first extension and the second extension.

12. The electrode assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The first extension and the second extension are joined by thermal fusion.

13. The electrode assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The diaphragm includes an overlapping area of ​​the first extension and the second extension.

14. The electrode assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first diaphragm portion, the second diaphragm portion, and the third diaphragm portion are integral.

15. An electrode assembly, the electrode assembly comprising: First electrode; Second electrode; as well as A diaphragm, bent between the first electrode and the second electrode to form an insertion portion that respectively accommodates the first electrode and the second electrode, and includes a first diaphragm portion at the lowest portion, a second diaphragm portion at the highest portion, and a third diaphragm portion between the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion and joined to at least one of the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion.

16. The electrode assembly of claim 15, wherein, The first diaphragm portion includes a first support portion and a first extension portion that bends from the end of the first support portion. The second diaphragm portion includes a second support portion and a second extension portion that bends from the end of the second support portion. Wherein, at least one of the first extension and the second extension is engaged with at least one curved portion of the third diaphragm portion.

17. The electrode assembly of claim 16, wherein, The first extension engages with the first curved portion of the third diaphragm portion, and The second extension is engaged with the second curved portion of the third diaphragm portion.

18. The electrode assembly of claim 16, wherein, The first extension and the second extension are joined to the same bend of the at least one bend in the third diaphragm portion.

19. The electrode assembly of claim 16, wherein, The first extension engages with the curved portion of the third diaphragm portion, and The second extension is engaged with the first extension.

20. A secondary battery, the secondary battery comprising: case; as well as An electrode assembly, located within the housing, includes: a first electrode; a second electrode; and a diaphragm for separating the first electrode and the second electrode, bent to form insertion portions for receiving the first electrode and the second electrode respectively, and including a first diaphragm portion at the lowest portion, a second diaphragm portion at the highest portion and joined to the first diaphragm portion, and a third diaphragm portion between the first diaphragm portion and the second diaphragm portion.

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