Battery module

Abstract

A battery module is disclosed. The battery module can include a plurality of battery cells arranged such that a plurality of major surfaces of the plurality of battery cells are adjacent to each other in a first direction, a first plate portion on a major surface of a battery cell at an outermost end among the plurality of battery cells, the first plate portion including a first material, a second plate portion on a plurality of side surfaces of the plurality of battery cells, the second plate portion including a second material, and a coupling portion between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and coupling the first plate portion to the second plate portion. The coupling portion can include a first material layer including the first material and a second material layer on one surface and another surface of the first material layer, around one or more edges of the first material layer, and including the second material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a battery module. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries can be charged and discharged. Low-capacity battery cells are already used in small portable electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders, while high-capacity battery cells are widely used as power sources for motors in hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as as energy storage cells. A battery cell includes an electrode assembly containing positive and negative electrodes, a housing of the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] Large-capacity battery cells can be used as battery modules, in which multiple battery cells are connected in series and / or in parallel to provide high energy density (e.g., for driving motors in hybrid vehicles).

[0004] Furthermore, in a battery module, multiple battery cells can be housed within an area defined by a pair of side plates, a pair of end plates, and a base plate. To connect these plates, similar materials are used to achieve high bonding strength between each plate.

[0005] In battery modules of related technologies, the same material is used to connect each plate, thus limiting the range of materials that can be used for each plate.

[0006] The information disclosed above in the background section of this disclosure is intended only to enhance understanding of the background of this disclosure and may therefore include information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a battery module in which battery panels comprising different metals are easily combined with each other.

[0008] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a battery module configured to expand the range of materials included in the battery panel.

[0009] Embodiments of this disclosure provide battery modules with improved structural stability.

[0010] However, the technical problems to be solved by this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other problems not mentioned from the description of the invention described below.

[0011] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a battery module. The battery module may include: a plurality of battery cells arranged such that a plurality of main surfaces of the plurality of battery cells are adjacent to each other in a first direction; a first plate portion located on the main surface of the outermost battery cell among the plurality of battery cells, the first plate portion including a first material; a second plate portion located on a plurality of side surfaces of the plurality of battery cells, the second plate portion including a second material; and a coupling portion between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and coupling the first plate portion to the second plate portion. The coupling portion may include a first material layer and a second material layer, the first material layer including the first material, and the second material layer surrounding one or more edges of the first material layer on one and another surface of the first material layer and including the second material.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first plate portion may further include a recessed portion, and the coupling portion may be accommodated in the recessed portion.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second material layer may include at least one opening on the surface of the second material layer adjacent to the second plate portion.

[0014] In some embodiments, the surface of the second material layer adjacent to the second plate portion may include two openings, and the two openings may be substantially symmetrical with respect to an imaginary vertical line passing through the center of the surface of the second material layer adjacent to the second plate portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, M according to Formula 1 can be in the range of about 0.5 to about 2.

[0016] Formula 1

[0017] M=L1 / L2

[0018] Where L1 is the width between the two openings in the direction perpendicular to the imaginary vertical line, and L2 is the width of each of the two openings in the direction perpendicular to the imaginary vertical line.

[0019] In some embodiments, the battery module may further include a first bonding portion for connecting a first plate portion to a first material layer and a second bonding portion for connecting a second plate portion to a second material layer.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first engagement portion may be located on an imaginary line extending from at least one opening toward the first material layer.

[0021] In some embodiments, the second engagement portion may be located in an area that does not overlap with at least one opening.

[0022] In some embodiments, one or more edges of the second material layer and the first material layer may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction.

[0023] In some embodiments, N according to Formula 2 can be in the range of about 0.3 to about 0.5.

[0024] Formula 2

[0025] N=L3 / L4

[0026] Where L3 is the thickness of the first material layer and L4 is the thickness of the coupling portion.

[0027] Another embodiment of this disclosure provides a battery module. The battery module may include: a plurality of battery cells arranged such that a plurality of main surfaces of the plurality of battery cells are adjacent to each other in a first direction; a first plate portion located on the main surface of the outermost battery cell among the plurality of battery cells, the first plate portion including a first material; a second plate portion located on a plurality of side surfaces of the plurality of battery cells, the second plate portion including a second material; and a coupling portion located between the first plate portion and the second plate portion and coupling the first plate portion to the second plate portion. The coupling portion may include a first material layer and a second material layer, the first material layer including the first material, the second material layer including the second material, the second material layer including a first region adjacent to the first plate portion, a second region adjacent to the second plate portion, and a connecting portion bent such that the first region overlaps with the second region to connect the first region to the second region. The first material layer is located between the first region and the second region.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first plate portion may further include a recessed portion, and the coupling portion may be housed in the recessed portion.

[0029] In some embodiments, the second material layer may include at least one opening on the surface of the second material layer adjacent to the second plate portion.

[0030] In some embodiments, the surface of the second material layer adjacent to the second plate portion may include two openings, and the two openings may be substantially symmetrical with respect to an imaginary vertical line passing through the center of the surface of the second material layer adjacent to the second plate portion.

[0031] In some embodiments, M according to Formula 1 can be in the range of about 0.5 to about 2.

[0032] Formula 1

[0033] M=L1 / L2

[0034] Where L1 is the width between the two openings in the direction perpendicular to the imaginary vertical line, and L2 is the width of each of the two openings in the direction perpendicular to the imaginary vertical line.

[0035] In some embodiments, the battery module may further include a first bonding portion for connecting a first plate portion to a first material layer and a second bonding portion for connecting a second plate portion to a second material layer.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first joining portion may be located on an imaginary line extending from at least one opening toward the first material layer, and the first joining portion may penetrate the first region.

[0037] In some embodiments, the second engagement portion may be located in a second region that does not include at least one opening.

[0038] In some embodiments, the connecting portion may be spaced apart from the first material layer.

[0039] In some embodiments, N according to Formula 2 can be in the range of about 0.3 to about 0.5.

[0040] Formula 2

[0041] N=L3 / L4

[0042] Where L3 is the thickness of the first material layer, and L4 is the thickness of the coupling portion. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The following accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description of the invention below, serve to further understand the technical concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the content described in these drawings:

[0044] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating an example of a battery module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 2 It is shown schematically. Figure 1 A perspective view of an example battery cell in a battery module;

[0046] Figure 3 It is a schematic representation of the path along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an example section taken by line III-III';

[0047] Figure 4 This is an illustrative representation of an embodiment according to the present disclosure. Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of an example battery module board;

[0048] Figure 5A It shows the basis Figure 4 A perspective view of the coupling portion of the battery module shown in the example, which is coupled to the first plate portion;

[0049] Figure 5BIt is a schematic representation of the basis Figure 5A A side view of an example battery module;

[0050] Figure 6A It shows the basis Figure 5A A perspective view of the second plate portion coupled to the coupling section in the example battery module shown;

[0051] Figure 6B It is a schematic representation based on Figure 6A A side view of an example battery module;

[0052] Figure 7 It is a schematic representation of the path along Figure 6A A cross-sectional view of an example section taken by line IV-IV' in the middle;

[0053] Figure 8A This is a perspective view showing the coupling portion of a battery module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0054] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A An exploded perspective view of the coupled portion. Detailed Implementation

[0055] This disclosure may include various modifications and embodiments, and specific embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the specific implementation. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiments, but includes all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included within the spirit and technical scope of this disclosure. In the following description of this disclosure, detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations incorporated herein will be omitted where it may make the subject matter of this disclosure less clear.

[0056] It should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used in this document to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from others.

[0057] The technical terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, in each drawing, components are shown exaggeratedly, omitted, or schematically for convenience and clarity of description, and the dimensions of each component do not fully reflect actual dimensions.

[0058] In the description of each component, where it is described as being formed "above" or "below", "above" and "below" include cases where it is directly formed therein or where other components are present therein, and the criteria for "above" and "below" will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] In the following description, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same or corresponding components will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0060] 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 variations in measured or calculated values ​​that will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0061] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating an example of a battery module 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0062] Reference Figure 1 In some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery module 100 may include a plurality of battery cells 10 arranged in one direction (e.g., the X direction) and a housing portion that accommodates (contains) the plurality of battery cells 10.

[0063] In one or more embodiments, the battery cell 10 may include a cylindrical battery cell, a pouch-shaped battery cell, or a prismatic battery cell.

[0064] In some embodiments, the housing portion may include first plate portions (also referred to as end plate portions) 61 and 62, second plate portions (also referred to as side plate portions 63 and 64), a bottom plate, and a top cover.

[0065] The plurality of battery cells 10 arranged in the one direction can be accommodated (housed) by the housing portion.

[0066] In some embodiments, the first plate portions 61 and 62 may be located on the main surface of the outermost of a plurality of battery cells 10 arranged along the one direction.

[0067] In some embodiments, the second plate portions 63 and 64 may be on the side surfaces of a plurality of battery cells 10 arranged along said one direction.

[0068] In some embodiments, the base plate may be on the bottom surface of each of a plurality of battery cells 10 arranged along the one direction.

[0069] In some embodiments, the top cover may be on or above a plurality of battery cells 10 arranged along the one direction.

[0070] The first plate portions 61 and 62, the second plate portions 63 and 64, the base plate and the top cover can be coupled together by concave-convex coupling, assembly coupling or coupling of components to form a shell portion, and the coupling method is not limited to this.

[0071] The internal space in which multiple battery cells 10 can be arranged can be formed by the housing portion, and the multiple battery cells 10 can be arranged (accommodated) in the internal space formed by the housing portion.

[0072] The battery module 100 according to this embodiment may further include a busbar that electrically connects one battery cell 10 to another adjacent battery cell 10.

[0073] A first terminal 11 of a battery cell 10 can be electrically connected to a second terminal 12 of another adjacent battery cell 10 via a busbar, and a second terminal 12 of a battery cell 10 can be electrically connected to the first terminal 11 of yet another adjacent battery cell 10 via another busbar. Although Figure 1 A series connection is shown, but this disclosure is not limited thereto, and various connection structures can be employed. In some embodiments, the number and arrangement of the battery cells 10 are not limited to... Figure 1 The structure shown can be changed.

[0074] Figure 2 It is shown schematically. Figure 1 A perspective view of an example battery cell 10 of the battery module. Figure 3 It is a schematic representation of the path along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the section cut by line III-III'.

[0075] Refer to together Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to one embodiment, the battery cell 10 may include: at least one wound electrode assembly 210, a separator 213 (configured to serve as an insulator) between a positive electrode 211 and a negative electrode 212; and a housing 15, wherein the electrode assembly 210 is housed in the housing 15.

[0076] As an example, the battery cell 10 according to one embodiment is described as a prismatic lithium-ion battery cell. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the battery module 100 may include any other suitable type of battery cell, such as a lithium polymer battery cell or a cylindrical battery cell.

[0077] The positive electrode 211 and the negative electrode 212 may include coated portions and uncoated portions (including uncoated portion 211a of the positive electrode and uncoated portion 212a of the negative electrode). The coated portions are areas in which active material is applied to a current collector including a thin metal foil, and the uncoated portions (including uncoated portion 211a of the positive electrode and uncoated portion 212a of the negative electrode) are areas in which no active material is applied.

[0078] Positive electrode 211 and negative electrode 212 are wound together, with a diaphragm 213 (which is an insulator) therebetween. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly 210 may have a structure in which multiple sheets of positive and negative electrodes are alternately stacked (e.g., laminated) with a diaphragm therebetween.

[0079] The housing 15 forms the overall appearance of the battery cell 10 and may include a conductive metal, such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. In some embodiments, the housing 15 may provide space for accommodating the electrode assembly 210.

[0080] The battery cell 10 may include a cover 17 that covers an opening in the housing 15, and the housing 15 and the cover 17 may be made of conductive material. In one or more embodiments, a first terminal 11 electrically connected to the positive electrode 211 and a second terminal 12 electrically connected to the negative electrode 212 may protrude outward through the cover 17, respectively.

[0081] In some embodiments, the outer peripheral surfaces of the upper posts of the first terminal 11 and the second terminal 12 protruding outward from the cover plate 17 may be threaded and fixed to the cover plate 17 with nuts.

[0082] However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. The first terminal 11 and the second terminal 12 may include a rivet structure and may be riveted to the cover plate 17 or welded to the cover plate 17.

[0083] In some embodiments, the cover plate 17 may include a thin plate and may be coupled to an opening in the housing 15. An electrolyte inlet 14 may be in the cover plate 17, and a sealing plug may be installed in the electrolyte inlet 14. Additionally, a vent 13 with a notch may be in the cover plate 17.

[0084] The first terminal 11 and the second terminal 12 can be electrically connected to a current collector including a positive electrode current collector 240 and a negative electrode current collector 250 (also referred to as the first current collector and the second current collector), respectively. The positive electrode current collector 240 and the negative electrode current collector 250 are respectively welded to the uncoated portion 211a of the positive electrode and the uncoated portion 212a of the negative electrode.

[0085] For example, the first terminal 11 and the second terminal 12 can be coupled to the positive electrode current collector 240 and the negative electrode current collector 250 respectively by welding. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first terminal 11 and the second terminal 12 can be integral with the positive electrode current collector 240 and the negative electrode current collector 250 respectively.

[0086] In some embodiments, an insulating member may be installed between the electrode assembly 210 and the cover plate 17. In one or more embodiments, the insulating member may include a first lower insulating member 260 and a second lower insulating member 270, and each of the first lower insulating member 260 and the second lower insulating member 270 may be between the electrode assembly 210 and the cover plate 17.

[0087] In some embodiments, according to this embodiment, one end of the separator member facing one surface of the electrode assembly 210 may be between the insulating member and the first terminal 11 and the second terminal 12.

[0088] In one or more embodiments, the separating member may include a first separating member 280 and a second separating member 290.

[0089] Therefore, one end of the first separator 280 facing the electrode assembly 210 may be located between the first lower insulating member 260 and the first terminal 11, and one end of the second separator 290 facing the electrode assembly 210 may be located between the second lower insulating member 270 and the second terminal 12.

[0090] As a result, the first terminal 11 soldered to the positive electrode current collector 240 can be coupled to one end of each of the first lower insulating member 260 and the first separating member 280, and the second terminal 12 soldered to the negative electrode current collector 250 can be coupled to one end of each of the second lower insulating member 270 and the second separating member 290.

[0091] Figure 4 This is an illustrative representation of an embodiment according to the present disclosure. Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of an example of a battery module 100 board.

[0092] Figure 5A It shows the basis Figure 4 The example shown is a perspective view of the coupling portion 65 in the battery module 100 coupled to the first plate portion 61. Figure 5B It is a schematic representation of the basis Figure 5A A side view of an example of a battery module 100.

[0093] Figure 6A It shows the basis Figure 5A The example shown is a perspective view of the second plate portion 63 of the battery module 100 coupled to the coupling portion 65. Figure 6B It is a schematic representation of the basis Figure 6A A side view of an example of a battery module 100.

[0094] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery module 100 includes a plurality of battery cells 10, first plate portions 61 and 62, second plate portions 63 and 64, and coupling portion 65 (e.g., ...). Figure 1 shown).

[0095] Multiple battery cells 10 can be arranged such that their main surfaces are adjacent to each other in a first direction (e.g., the X direction).

[0096] In one or more embodiments, the battery cell 10 may be a cylindrical battery cell, a pouch battery cell, or a prismatic battery cell, but this disclosure is not limited to a specific battery type.

[0097] In some embodiments, the main surface may refer to the side surface surrounding the battery cell 10, and may refer to the widest surface among the side surfaces of the prismatic battery cell 10.

[0098] In some embodiments, the first direction may refer to a direction perpendicular (or substantially perpendicular) to the main surface. Reference Figure 1 The main surface is in the Y direction, and the first direction can be the X direction, which is perpendicular to the Y direction.

[0099] The first plate portions 61 and 62 can be disposed on the main surface of the battery cell 10 located at the outermost end of the plurality of battery cells 10. The first plate portions 61 and 62 may include a first material. The first plate portions 61 and 62 may be end plates.

[0100] In one or more embodiments, the first material may be aluminum (Al), but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In embodiments, the first material of the first plate portions 61 and 62 may be an aluminum (Al) alloy including aluminum (Al), such as an alloy including aluminum (Al), silicon (Si), and magnesium (Mg) (AlSi). 10 (Mg), but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0101] Second plate portions 63 and 64 are disposed on the side surface of the battery cell 10. Second plate portions 63 and 64 may include a second material. Second plate portions 63 and 64 may be side plates.

[0102] In one or more embodiments, the second material may be stainless steel, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In embodiments, the second plate portions 63 and 64 may be alloys including stainless steel, such as steel use stainless (SUS) series (e.g., SUS 290), but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0103] The coupling portion 65 is between the first plate portions 61 and 62 and the second plate portions 63 and 64, and connects the first plate portions 61 and 62 to the second plate portions 63 and 64.

[0104] In the prior art, in order to obtain excellent bonding strength between the first plate portions 61 and 62 and the second plate portions 63 and 64, it is required that the metals included in the first plate portions 61 and 62 and the second plate portions 63 and 64 are the same. Therefore, the range of materials to be selected for the first plate portions 61 and 62 and the second plate portions 63 and 64 is limited.

[0105] In one or more embodiments, the coupling portion 65 is a structure comprising both a first material and a second material, and may be a separate parent material placed between the first plate portions 61 and 62 comprising the first material and the second plate portions 63 and 64 comprising the second material to increase the bonding between the different metals.

[0106] In some embodiments, the battery module 100 further includes a coupling portion 65 to facilitate an increased (enhanced) connection between the first plate portions 61 and 62 and the second plate portions 63 and 64, even if the first plate portions 61 and 62 and the second plate portions 63 and 64 comprise different metals. The coupling portion 65 also allows the first plate portions 61 and 62 and the second plate portions 63 and 64 to each comprise different metals, thereby achieving the effect of expanding the range of materials that the first plate portions 61 and 62 and the second plate portions 63 and 64 may comprise.

[0107] The coupling portion 65 may include a first material layer 651 and a second material layer 652.

[0108] In one or more embodiments, the first material layer 651 may include a first material.

[0109] In some embodiments, the second material layer 652 may be on one and another surface (e.g., two surfaces opposite each other) of the first material layer 651, surrounding one or more edges of the first material layer 651, and may include the second material.

[0110] In some embodiments, the first material may be, but is not limited to, aluminum (Al). In embodiments, the first material layer 651 may be an aluminum (Al) alloy including aluminum (Al), such as an Al 50 series alloy or an Al 60 series alloy including aluminum (Al), but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0111] In some embodiments, the second material may be stainless steel, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In embodiments, the second material layer 652 may be an alloy including stainless steel, such as the SUS (Stainless Steel for Steel) series (e.g., SUS 290), but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0112] The second material layer 652 may include a first region 6521, a second region 6522, and a connecting portion 6523, such as Figure 7 shown.

[0113] In one or more embodiments, the first region 6521 refers to a region adjacent to one of the first plate portions 61 and 62, and the second region 6522 refers to a region adjacent to one of the second plate portions 63 and 64. The connecting portion 6523 may be bent such that the first region 6521 overlaps with the second region 6522 to connect the first region 6521 to the second region 6522. A first material layer 651 may be located between the first region 6521 and the second region 6522.

[0114] The first plate portions 61 and 62 may also include a recessed portion 611, in which the coupling portion 65 is arranged (accommodated).

[0115] In one or more embodiments, the first plate portions 61 and 62 may further include a recessed portion 611, and the coupling portion 65 may be inserted into and placed (received in) the recessed portion 611.

[0116] Figure 7 It schematically shows along Figure 6A An example of a cross-sectional view taken by line IV-IV'. Figure 8A This is a perspective view showing the coupling portion 65 of a battery module 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 8B yes Figure 8A The exploded perspective view of the coupled portion 65.

[0117] The second material layer 652 may include one or more openings V on a surface adjacent to one of the second plate portions 63 and 64. In one or more embodiments, the surface adjacent to one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 includes two openings V (e.g., two vacancy spaces), and the two openings V may be arranged symmetrically (or substantially symmetrically) with respect to an imaginary vertical line passing through the center of the surface adjacent to one of the second plate portions 63 and 64.

[0118] In one or more embodiments, the first material layer 651 may be exposed to a surface facing one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 through an opening V in the second material layer 652 (see [link]). Figure 4 ).

[0119] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery module 100 may further include a first bonding portion 651A connecting one of the first plate portions 61 and 62 to the first material layer 651 and a second bonding portion 652A connecting one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 to the second material layer 652.

[0120] In one or more embodiments, the first joining portion 651A may be located on an imaginary line extending from the opening V toward the first material layer 651, and the second joining portion 652A may be located in a region that does not overlap with the opening V. In an embodiment, the first joining portion 651A may be located on an imaginary line extending from the opening V toward the first material layer 651 and may penetrate the first region 6521, and the second joining portion 652A may be located in the portion of the second region 6522 that does not include the opening V.

[0121] In some embodiments, in a battery module 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, after the coupling portion 65 is located (e.g., inserted or otherwise housed) in a recess 611 in one of the first plate portions 61 and 62, heat can be applied to the portion of the first material layer 651 exposed through the opening V to melt the first material layer 651 in a direction toward one of the first plate portions 61 and 62 to form a first engagement portion 651A connecting the first material layer 651 to one of the first plate portions 61 and 62 through a first region 6521 (see...). Figure 5A and 5B ).

[0122] In some embodiments, in a battery module 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, after one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 is disposed on a second material layer 652 in which an opening V is formed, heat can be applied to a portion of the surface of one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 that is not adjacent to the second material layer 652 to melt one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 in a direction toward the second region 6522 to form a second bonding portion 652A connecting one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 to the second region 6522 (see See...). Figure 6A and 6B In an embodiment where the surface of the second material layer 652 adjacent to one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 includes two openings V and these two openings V are arranged symmetrically (or substantially symmetrically) with respect to an imaginary vertical line passing through the center of the surface adjacent to one of the second plate portions 63 and 64, after one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 is arranged on the second material layer 652 in which the two openings V are formed, heat can be applied to a portion of the surface of one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 that is not adjacent to the second material layer 652 to melt one of the second plate portions 63 and 64 in a direction toward the second region 6522 to form a second joining portion 652A that connects a portion of the region between the two openings V of the second region 6522 to one of the second plate portions 63 and 64.

[0123] In one or more embodiments, one or more edges of the second material layer 652 and the first material layer 651 may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction. In one or more embodiments, the connecting portion 6523 may be spaced apart from the first material layer 651.

[0124] In one or more embodiments, the space created by the separation of one or more edges of the first material layer 651 and the second material layer 652 from each other can be controlled by taking into account the mechanical properties (such as elasticity or resilience) of the second material layer 652 when it surrounds the edge of the first material layer 651.

[0125] According to Formula 1 below, the battery module 100 of this disclosure may have M in the range of about 0.5 to about 2, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0126] Formula 1

[0127] M=L1 / L2

[0128] In one or more embodiments, L1 refers to the width between the two openings V in a direction perpendicular to an imaginary vertical line, and L2 refers to the width of each of the two openings V in a direction perpendicular to an imaginary vertical line. For example, L1 and / or L2 may be in the range of about 1 mm to about 5 mm, such as in the range of about 1.5 mm to about 3 mm, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0129] In embodiments where M according to Formula 1 falls within the aforementioned numerical range (e.g., from about 0.5 to about 2), when the first joint portion 651A formed through the opening V connects and couples one of the first plate portions 61 and 62 to the first material layer 651, the first joint portion 651A can have a thickness with excellent bonding strength. Conversely, if M is outside the upper limit of the numerical range (e.g., above about 2), the thickness of the first joint portion 651A formed through the opening V may decrease, and therefore, the bonding strength between one of the first plate portions 61 and 62 connected and coupled through the first joint portion 651A and the first material layer 651 may weaken. Additionally, if M is outside the lower limit of the numerical range (e.g., below about 0.5), the width of the opening V in the second material layer 652 may become excessively large, resulting in a decrease in the mechanical strength of the coupling portion 65.

[0130] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the battery module 100 may have N in the range of about 0.3 to about 0.5 according to Formula 2 below, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0131] Formula 2

[0132] N=L3 / L4

[0133] In one or more embodiments, L3 refers to the thickness of the first material layer 651, and L4 refers to the thickness of the coupling portion 65. For example, in one or more embodiments, L3 may be in the range of about 1.5 mm to about 2 mm, and L4 may be about 5 mm, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0134] In embodiments where N according to Formula 2 falls within the aforementioned numerical range (e.g., from about 0.3 to about 0.5), the first bonding portion 651A connecting one of the first plate portions 61 and 62 to the first material layer 651 can be readily formed. Conversely, if N is outside the upper limit of the numerical range (e.g., greater than about 0.5), the thickness L3 of the first material layer 651 may become too large, making it difficult to form the first bonding portion 651A connecting one of the first plate portions 61 and 62 to the first material layer 651. Additionally, if N exceeds the lower limit of the numerical range (e.g., less than about 0.3), the thickness L3 of the first material layer 651 may become too small, making it difficult to form the first bonding portion 651A connecting one of the first plate portions 61 and 62 to the first material layer 651, resulting in lower durability against impacts transmitted to the first material layer 651 during the formation of the first bonding portion 651A connecting one of the first plate portions 61 and 62 to the first material layer 651.

[0135] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure and the equivalent scope of the appended patent claims.

[0136] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a battery module is provided in which battery panels comprising different metals are easily coupled to each other.

[0137] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the battery module includes a coupling portion configured to expand the range of suitable materials included in the battery panels by facilitating coupling between battery panels comprising different metals.

[0138] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the battery module including the coupling portion expands the range of materials included in the battery panel by promoting coupling between battery panels comprising different metals, resulting in improved structural stability.

[0139] However, the effects that can be obtained through this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand from the description of this disclosure other technical effects not mentioned.

Claims

1. A battery module, comprising: Multiple battery cells, the multiple battery cells being arranged such that multiple main surfaces of the multiple battery cells are adjacent to each other in a first direction; The first plate portion is located on the main surface of the outermost battery cell among the plurality of battery cells, and the first plate portion includes a first material. A second plate portion on multiple side surfaces of the plurality of battery cells, the second plate portion comprising a second material; as well as In the coupling portion between the first plate portion and the second plate portion, the coupling portion couples the first plate portion to the second plate portion, wherein the coupling portion includes: A first material layer comprising the first material; and A second material layer is disposed on one and another surface of the first material layer, surrounding one or more edges of the first material layer, and comprising the second material.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The first plate portion further includes a recessed portion, wherein the coupling portion is accommodated in the recessed portion.

3. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, The second material layer includes at least one opening on the surface of the second material layer adjacent to the second plate portion.

4. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein: The surface of the second material layer adjacent to the second plate portion includes two openings, and The two openings are substantially symmetrical with respect to an imaginary vertical line passing through the center of the surface adjacent to the second plate portion of the second material layer.

5. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein, According to Formula 1, M is in the range of approximately 0.5 to approximately 2: Formula 1 M=L1 / L2 Wherein, L1 is the width between the two openings in the direction perpendicular to the imaginary vertical line, and where L2 is the width of each of the two openings in the direction perpendicular to the imaginary vertical line.

6. The battery module according to claim 3, further comprising: The first plate portion is connected to the first bonding portion of the first material layer; as well as The second plate portion is connected to the second bonding portion of the second material layer.

7. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein, The first joint portion is located on an imaginary line extending from the at least one opening toward the first material layer.

8. The battery module according to claim 6, wherein, The second joining portion is located in an area that does not overlap with the at least one opening.

9. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, One or more edges of the second material layer and the first material layer are separated from each other in the first direction.

10. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, According to Formula 2, N is in the range of approximately 0.3 to approximately 0.5: Formula 2 N=L3 / L4 Wherein, L3 is the thickness of the first material layer, and L4 is the thickness of the coupling portion.

11. A battery module, comprising: Multiple battery cells, the multiple battery cells being arranged such that multiple main surfaces of the multiple battery cells are adjacent to each other in a first direction; The first plate portion is located on the main surface of the outermost battery cell among the plurality of battery cells, and the first plate portion includes a first material. A second plate portion located on multiple side surfaces of the plurality of battery cells, the second plate portion comprising a second material; as well as In the coupling portion between the first plate portion and the second plate portion, the coupling portion couples the first plate portion to the second plate portion. The coupling portion includes a first material layer and a second material layer, wherein the first material layer includes the first material and the second material layer includes the second material. The second material layer includes a first region adjacent to the first plate portion, a second region adjacent to the second plate portion, and a connecting portion, wherein the connecting portion is bent such that the first region overlaps with the second region to connect the first region to the second region. The first material layer is located between the first region and the second region.

12. The battery module according to claim 11, wherein, The first plate portion further includes a recessed portion, wherein the coupling portion is housed in the recessed portion.

13. The battery module according to claim 11, wherein, The second material layer includes at least one opening on the surface of the second material layer adjacent to the second plate portion.

14. The battery module according to claim 13, wherein: The surface of the second material layer adjacent to the second plate portion includes two openings, and The two openings are substantially symmetrical with respect to an imaginary vertical line passing through the center of the surface adjacent to the second plate portion of the second material layer.

15. The battery module according to claim 14, wherein, According to Formula 1, M is in the range of approximately 0.5 to approximately 2: Formula 1 M=L1 / L2 Wherein, L1 is the width between the two openings in the direction perpendicular to the imaginary vertical line, and where L2 is the width of each of the two openings in the direction perpendicular to the imaginary vertical line.

16. The battery module according to claim 13, further comprising: The first plate portion is connected to the first bonding portion of the first material layer; as well as The second plate portion is connected to the second bonding portion of the second material layer.

17. The battery module according to claim 16, wherein, The first joint portion is located on an imaginary line extending from the at least one opening toward the first material layer, and wherein the first joint portion penetrates the first region.

18. The battery module according to claim 16, wherein, The second engagement portion is located in the second region, which does not include the at least one opening.

19. The battery module according to claim 11, wherein, The connecting portion is spaced apart from the first material layer.

20. The battery module according to claim 11, wherein, According to Formula 2, N is in the range of approximately 0.3 to approximately 0.5: Formula 2 N=L3 / L4 Wherein, L3 is the thickness of the first material layer, and L4 is the thickness of the coupling portion.

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