Method for replacing a circuit board of a battery pack and battery pack

Abstract

A method for replacing a circuit board of a battery assembly and a battery assembly are provided. The method for replacing a circuit board of a battery assembly includes cutting a plurality of first tabs to separate a first circuit board from a plurality of bus bars, preparing a second circuit board to be connected to a plurality of second tabs, and connecting the plurality of second tabs to the plurality of bus bars. Each of the plurality of second tabs is on a respective one of the plurality of first tabs that is cut in a thickness direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of this disclosure relate to a method for replacing a circuit board of a battery assembly and a battery assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which are not designed for (re)charging, secondary (or rechargeable) batteries are designed to be discharged and 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 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 includes an electrode assembly containing positive and negative electrodes, a housing that houses the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] A battery module may include multiple secondary batteries (or individual cells) connected in series and / or parallel, multiple busbars connected to the multiple secondary batteries, and a circuit board soldered to the busbars. The circuit board may include a fuse for the safety of the battery module. If the fuse is damaged by high voltage inside or outside the battery module, it may be difficult to replace the damaged circuit board because the circuit board may be soldered to the busbars.

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

[0005] The embodiments of this disclosure can be directed to a method for replacing a circuit board of a battery assembly and to a battery assembly for which the circuit board can be easily replaced.

[0006] These and other aspects and features of this disclosure will be described in or will become apparent from the following description of embodiments of this disclosure.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a method for replacing a circuit board of a battery assembly includes: cutting a plurality of first terminals to separate a first circuit board from a plurality of busbars; preparing a second circuit board to be connected to a plurality of second terminals; and connecting the plurality of second terminals to the plurality of busbars. Each of the plurality of second terminals is located on a corresponding one of the plurality of first terminals cut in the thickness direction.

[0008] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of cut first terminals may include a coupling portion that is coupled to at least a portion of the upper surface of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

[0009] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of first terminals that are cut may include a broken portion, which may be cut to separate the plurality of busbars and the first circuit board from each other.

[0010] In one implementation, the broken portion may be located between the first circuit board and the multiple busbars before being cut.

[0011] In one embodiment, the fractured portion may include a fracture hole.

[0012] In one embodiment, the cut surface of each of the plurality of first terminals cut can be coated for protection.

[0013] In an implementation, each of the plurality of first connectors may include a first through hole, each of the plurality of second connectors may include a second through hole, each of the plurality of busbars may include a third through hole, and connecting the plurality of second connectors to the plurality of busbars may include: fastening a fastening member through the first through hole, the second through hole and the third through hole to connect the plurality of second connectors to the plurality of busbars.

[0014] In one embodiment, the fastening member may include: a head portion; and a protruding portion that protrudes from the head portion and inserts into the first through hole, the second through hole, and the third through hole. The diameter of the head portion may be smaller than the width of each of the second terminals.

[0015] In this embodiment, the fastening component may include a conductive material.

[0016] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of busbars may include a fixing groove that fixes the end of a corresponding one of the plurality of first connectors and the end of a corresponding one of the plurality of second connectors.

[0017] In one embodiment, one end of each of the plurality of second connectors may be connected to a second circuit board, and connecting the plurality of second connectors to the plurality of busbars may include inserting the other end of each of the plurality of second connectors into a retaining slot of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

[0018] In one implementation, the other end of each of the plurality of second connectors can be bent and inserted into a fixed slot of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

[0019] In one embodiment, at least some of the plurality of first terminals and the plurality of second terminals may include nickel terminals.

[0020] In one embodiment, connecting a plurality of second terminals to a plurality of busbars may include: electrically connecting each of the plurality of second terminals to the upper surface of a corresponding one of the plurality of cut first terminals.

[0021] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a battery assembly includes: a plurality of battery cells; a plurality of busbars electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells to each other; a circuit board electrically connected to the plurality of busbars; a plurality of first terminals on the plurality of busbars in the thickness direction; and a plurality of second terminals on the plurality of first terminals in the thickness direction, connecting the plurality of busbars and the circuit board to each other.

[0022] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of first terminals may include a coupling portion that is coupled to at least a portion of the upper surface of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

[0023] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of first terminals may include a first through hole, each of the plurality of second terminals may include a second through hole, each of the plurality of busbars may include a third through hole, and the battery assembly may further include a fastening member that is fastened through the first through hole, the second through hole and the third through hole to connect the plurality of second terminals to the plurality of busbars.

[0024] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of busbars may include a fixing slot that fixes an end of a corresponding one of the plurality of first connectors and an end of a corresponding one of the plurality of second connectors. One end of each of the plurality of second connectors may be connected to a circuit board, and the other end of each of the plurality of second connectors may be inserted into the fixing slot of the corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

[0025] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, a battery assembly includes: a plurality of battery cells; a plurality of busbars electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells to each other; a circuit board electrically connected to the plurality of busbars; and a plurality of terminals on the plurality of busbars in the thickness direction. Each of the plurality of terminals includes: a coupling portion coupling to at least a portion of the upper surface of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars; and a through hole for coupling a fastening member to a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

[0026] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of busbars may include a fixing slot that fixes the end of a corresponding terminal piece among the plurality of terminal pieces. One end of each of the plurality of terminal pieces may be connected to a circuit board, and the other end of each of the plurality of terminal pieces may be inserted into the fixing slot of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

[0027] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the busbar and the connector can be connected to each other using different connection methods. Therefore, the connector and the busbar can be securely joined together.

[0028] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, a second terminal block connected to a replacement circuit board can be positioned above the first terminal blocks without removing all existing first terminal blocks. Furthermore, the circuit board and the busbar can be electrically connected to each other by connecting the second terminal block and the busbar. Therefore, a damaged circuit board of the battery assembly can be easily replaced.

[0029] However, the aspects and features of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the detailed description below that other aspects and features not mentioned will be apparent. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description thereof, further describe aspects and features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings.

[0031] Figure 1 Examples of battery cells according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a battery cell according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a battery assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 4 Examples of busbars and circuit boards connected to each other according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0035] Figure 5 An example of a broken portion of a connector according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0036] Figure 6 Examples of broken connectors and circuit boards separated from busbars according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0037] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing examples of busbars and circuit boards connected to each other according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0038] Figure 8 This is a plan view illustrating examples of busbars and circuit boards connected to each other according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0039] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a busbar and circuit board connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 10This is a perspective view showing examples of busbars and circuit boards connected to each other according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0041] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for replacing a circuit board for a battery assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0042] Explanation of some figure labels

[0043] 10: Battery cell

[0044] 110: Shell

[0045] 122: Cover plate

[0046] 124: Exhaust section

[0047] 126: Sealing plug

[0048] 130_1: Positive electrode terminal

[0049] 130_2: Negative electrode terminal Detailed Implementation

[0050] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their general or dictionary meanings, and should be understood based on the principle that the inventor can be his / her own lexicographer to appropriately define the concepts of the terms so as to best interpret his / her invention in a manner consistent with the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

[0051] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are only some of the embodiments of this disclosure and do not represent all the technical spirit, aspects, and features of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace or modify the embodiments described herein may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0052] It will be understood that when a layer or element is referred to as being “between” two layers, the layer or element can be the only layer or element between the two layers, or one or more intermediate layers may exist. It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on”, “connected to”, or “bonded to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly bonded to the other element or layer, or one or more intermediate elements or layers may exist. When an element or layer is referred to as being “directly on”, “directly connected to”, or “directly bonded to” another element or layer, no intermediate elements or layers exist. For example, when a first element is described as being “bonded” or “connected” to a second element, the first element can be directly bonded to or connected to the second element, or the first element can be indirectly bonded to or connected to the second element via one or more intermediate elements.

[0053] In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be exaggerated for clarity. The same reference numerals denote the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of this disclosure, the use of "may" refers to "one or more embodiments of this disclosure." Expressions such as "at least one of..." and "any one of..." modify the entire list of elements when following it, and do not modify individual elements in the list. When a list of elements A, B, and C is specified using phrases such as "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "at least one selected from the group consisting of A, B, and C," or "at least one selected from A, B, and C," the phrase may refer to any and all suitable combinations or subsets of A, B, and C, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the terms "use," "using," and "being used" may be considered synonymous with the terms "utilize," "using," and "being exploited," respectively. As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximations rather than terms of degree and are intended to describe the inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0054] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another element, component, region, layer, or portion. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or portion without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0055] For ease of description, this document uses spatial relation terms such as “below,” “under,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” etc., to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the figure. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientation shown in the figure, spatial relation terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will be oriented “above” or “above” other elements or features. Therefore, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relation descriptors used herein should be understood accordingly.

[0056] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “including,” and / or “containing” specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0057] Furthermore, any numerical range disclosed and / or enumerated herein is intended to include all subranges containing the same numerical precision within the enumerated range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between (and including) the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0, i.e., all subranges having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as, for example, 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit enumerated herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit enumerated in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification (including the claims) to expressly enumerate any subranges contained within the ranges expressly enumerated herein. All such ranges are intended to be inherently described in this specification such that amendments to expressly enumerate any such subranges will comply with the requirements of local patent law.

[0058] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” can mean that they are “substantially identical.” Therefore, the phrase “substantially identical” can include cases with deviations considered low in the art, such as 5% or less. Furthermore, when a parameter is said to be uniform in a given region, it can mean that it is uniform in terms of average value.

[0059] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0060] Placing any element "above (or below)" or "under" another element can mean that the arbitrary element can be positioned to contact the upper (or lower) surface of the element, and additional elements can be inserted between the element and the arbitrary element positioned above (or below) the element.

[0061] Additionally, it will be understood that when a component is referred to as “joined,” “linked,” or “connected” to another component, these components can be directly “joined,” “linked,” or “connected” to each other, or an intermediate component can be “inserted” between these components.

[0062] Throughout this specification, when “A and / or B” is stated, it means A, B, or A and B, unless otherwise stated. That is, “and / or” includes any or all combinations of the listed items. When “C to D” is stated, it means C or greater and D or less, unless otherwise stated.

[0063] Figure 1 Examples of battery cells 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a battery cell 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0064] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 A battery cell 10 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may include: at least one wound electrode assembly 210, wherein a separator 216, which serves as an insulator, is inserted between a positive electrode 212 and a negative electrode 214; a housing 110 in which the electrode assembly 210 is housed (or contained); and a cover assembly 120 coupled to an opening in the housing 110.

[0065] The battery cell 10 according to one or more embodiments will now be described as a prismatic lithium-ion secondary battery as an example. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and suitable aspects, features, and principles described herein can be applied to a variety of other types of batteries, such as pouch cells and / or cylindrical cells.

[0066] Each of the positive electrode 212 and the negative electrode 214 may include a current collector made of a thin metal foil and having a coated portion thereon coated with an active material and an uncoated portion thereon uncoated with an active material 212a, 214a.

[0067] After the diaphragm 216, which serves as an insulator, is inserted between the positive electrode 212 and the negative electrode 214, the positive electrode 212 and the negative electrode 214 are wound together. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly 210 may have a structure in which the positive electrode 212 and the negative electrode 214, each made of a plurality of sheets, are stacked alternately, and the diaphragm is inserted between the positive electrode 212 and the negative electrode 214.

[0068] The housing 110 can form the overall appearance of the battery cell 10 and can be made of a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. In addition, the housing 110 can provide space therein to house the electrode assembly 210.

[0069] The cover assembly 120 may include a cover plate 122 that covers an opening in the housing 110, and the housing 110 and the cover plate 122 may be made of a conductive material. Positive electrode terminals 130_1 and negative electrode terminals 130_2, which are electrically connected to the positive electrode 212 and the negative electrode 214, respectively, may be mounted to penetrate (or extend through) the cover plate 122 and protrude outward through the cover plate 122.

[0070] Additionally, the outer peripheral surfaces (e.g., perimeter surfaces) of the upper posts of the positive electrode terminal 130_1 and the negative electrode terminal 130_2 protruding outward from the cover plate 122 can be threaded and can be fixed to the cover plate 122 by means of nuts.

[0071] However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. The positive electrode terminal 130_1 and the negative electrode terminal 130_2 may have a rivet structure and may be riveted or welded to the cover plate 122.

[0072] Additionally, the cover plate 122 may be made of a thin plate and may be incorporated into an opening in the housing 110, into which the sealing plug 126 may be installed, the electrolyte injection port 128 may be located (e.g., formed in) the cover plate 122, and the venting portion 124 with a notch may be installed in the cover plate 122.

[0073] The positive electrode terminal 130_1 and the negative electrode terminal 130_2 can be electrically connected to the positive electrode uncoated portion 212a and the negative electrode uncoated portion 214a by respectively joining or combining (e.g., by welding) to a current collector including the first current collector 222 and the second current collector 224 (hereinafter referred to as the positive electrode current collector and the negative electrode current collector).

[0074] For example, the positive electrode terminal 130_1 and the negative electrode terminal 130_2 can be soldered to the positive electrode current collector 222 and the negative electrode current collector 224, respectively. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and in one or more embodiments, the positive electrode terminal 130_1 and the negative electrode terminal 130_2, as well as the positive electrode current collector 222 and the negative electrode current collector 224, can be integrally formed.

[0075] Additionally, an insulating member may be installed between the electrode assembly 210 and the cover plate 122. The insulating member may include a first insulating member 232 and a second insulating member 234, and each of the first insulating member 232 and the second insulating member 234 may also have a portion located between the electrode assembly 210 and the housing 110.

[0076] Additionally, according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, one end of the separating member may face the side of the electrode assembly 210 and may be mounted between the insulating member and the electrode assembly 210. In one or more embodiments, the separating member may include a first separating member 242 and a second separating member 244.

[0077] Therefore, the positive electrode terminals 130_1 and 130_2, which can be bonded to the positive electrode current collector 222 and the negative electrode current collector 224 by welding, can be bonded to the first insulating member 232 and the second insulating member 234, as well as the first separation member 242 and the first separation member 244.

[0078] The battery cell 10 can be a lithium-ion battery cell, a sodium-ion battery cell, etc. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the battery cell 10 can be or include all suitable types of batteries capable of repeatedly providing power through charging and discharging. In some embodiments, if the battery cell 10 is a lithium-ion battery cell (e.g., when the battery cell 10 is a lithium-ion battery cell), it can be used in electric vehicles (EVs) due to its excellent lifespan and high rate capability. For example, lithium-ion battery cells can be used in hybrid vehicles such as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Additionally, lithium-ion battery cells can be used in various suitable fields where large-scale energy storage is required or desired. For example, lithium-ion battery cells can be used in electric bicycles, power tools, and energy storage systems (ESS).

[0079] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a battery assembly 300 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0080] refer to Figure 3 The battery assembly 300 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a plurality of battery cells 310 (e.g., Figure 1 The system includes a battery cell 310, a frame 320 housing multiple battery cells 310, multiple busbars 340 electrically connected to the multiple battery cells 310, a busbar support 330 supporting the multiple busbars 340, and a circuit board 350 electrically connected to the multiple busbars 340 and on which various circuits and components are mounted. The multiple battery cells 310 can be arranged in one direction such that the wide surfaces of the battery cells 310 face each other.

[0081] In some embodiments, each battery cell 310 may include a housing, an electrode assembly housed within the housing along with the electrolyte, and a cover plate 312 for sealing the housing. Negative and positive electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly may be electrically connected to negative and positive electrode terminals formed in the cover plate 312. Furthermore, the negative and positive electrode terminals formed in the cover plate 312 may be electrically connected to multiple busbars 340. However, the structure of the battery cell 310 is not limited to this and can be modified in various ways as needed or desired. Additionally, the number and arrangement of the battery cells 310 are not limited to this. Figure 3 The structure shown can be modified in various ways as needed or desired.

[0082] In some embodiments, multiple battery cells 310 may be housed in a frame 320. According to some embodiments, the frame 320 may include a pair of end plates 322, a pair of side plates 324, and a top plate 326. The frame 320 may contact the outermost battery cell 310 in the arrangement direction of the battery cells 310 (e.g., direction D1). The pair of side plates 324 may be positioned perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the battery cells 310 (e.g., direction D2) and may be orthogonally coupled to the end plates 322. The top plate 326 may be disposed above the circuit board 350 (e.g., in direction D3). A base plate may be provided below the battery cells 310 to support them from below. The frame 320 may house multiple battery cells 310, a busbar support 330, multiple busbars 340, and a circuit board 350.

[0083] In some implementations, the busbar support 330 can be as follows: Figure 3 The busbar support 330 shown is positioned above the cover plate 312 and can support multiple busbars 340. For example, the busbar support 330 can be a rectangular or generally rectangular plate member and can be made of an insulating material.

[0084] In some embodiments, the busbar support 330 may include a plurality of through holes through which positive and negative electrode terminals protruding from the cover plate 312 are exposed. The positive and negative electrode terminals may be exposed through the through holes formed in the busbar support 330, and each of the exposed positive and negative electrode terminals may be electrically connected to a plurality of busbars 340.

[0085] In some embodiments, each busbar 340 can electrically connect a corresponding positive electrode terminal and / or negative electrode terminal to each other. Busbar 340 can connect multiple battery cells 310 in series and / or parallel. Multiple busbars 340 can be provided. According to some embodiments, busbar 340 can electrically connect the positive electrode terminal of a battery cell 310 to the positive electrode terminal or negative electrode terminal of another battery cell 310. Alternatively, or as another example, busbar 340 can electrically connect the negative electrode terminal of a battery cell 310 to the positive electrode terminal or negative electrode terminal of another battery cell 310. Busbar 340 can be connected to the positive electrode terminal and / or negative electrode terminal by soldering or the like. Areas of the battery cell 310 other than the positive and negative electrode terminals can be insulated from the busbar 340 by a busbar bracket 330. A circuit board 350 can be inserted between the busbar 340 and the top plate 326, and the busbar 340 can be electrically connected to the circuit board 350.

[0086] In some embodiments, the circuit board 350 may be equipped with various suitable components for measuring the state information (such as voltage and / or temperature) of the battery cells 310, as well as various components or circuits for controlling and / or managing the battery cells 310. According to some embodiments, the circuit board 350 may include a battery management system (BMS). Additionally, the circuit board 350 may be electrically connected to the outside of the battery assembly 300 via a separate connector.

[0087] In some embodiments, the circuit board 350 may be located above the busbar bracket 330. Alternatively, the circuit board 350 may be electrically connected to multiple busbars 340 via multiple connectors. Reference will be made below. Figures 4 to 10 A more detailed example of the connection between multiple busbars 340 and circuit board 350 via multiple terminals is described.

[0088] Figure 4 Examples of busbars 420 and circuit boards 410 connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.

[0089] refer to Figure 4 In some implementations, the battery assembly (e.g., Figure 3 The battery assembly 300 may include a plurality of battery cells, a circuit board 410 for measuring information associated with the plurality of battery cells or for controlling and / or managing the plurality of battery cells, a plurality of busbars 420 for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells to each other, a busbar support 430 for supporting the plurality of busbars 420, and a plurality of terminals 440 for connecting the circuit board 410 to each of the plurality of busbars 420. The circuit board 410 may be electrically connected to the plurality of busbars 420 via the plurality of terminals 440. The terminals 440 may include nickel terminals, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0090] In some embodiments, the connector 440 may be disposed above the busbar 420 (e.g., in the D3 direction). More specifically, the connector 440 may include a bonding portion 442 bonded to at least a portion of the upper surface of the busbar 420. The bonding portion 442 may be bonded to at least a portion of the upper surface of the busbar 420 by means of ultrasonic welding or the like.

[0091] In some embodiments, the connector 440 may include a through-hole 444 into which a fastening member to be connected to the busbar 420 may be inserted. Alternatively, the busbar 420 may include through-holes at locations corresponding to (e.g., overlapping with) the through-holes 444 of the connector 440. The fastening member may include a head portion and a protruding portion that protrudes from the head portion and inserts into the through-holes 444 of the connector 440 and the through-holes of the busbar 420. For example, the fastening member may be a rivet, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Additionally, the fastening member may include a conductive material.

[0092] In some embodiments, the busbar 420 may include a retaining groove 422 for retaining the end of the terminal block 440. In this case, one end of the terminal block 440 may be connected to the circuit board 410, and the other end (e.g., the opposite end) of the terminal block 440 may be inserted into the retaining groove 422 of the busbar 420. For example, the other end of the terminal block 440 may be bent and inserted into the retaining groove 422 of the busbar 420.

[0093] In this way, the busbar 420 and the terminal block 440 can be connected to each other using different connection methods. Therefore, the terminal block 440 and the busbar 420 can be securely connected to each other.

[0094] Figure 5 An example of a broken portion 536 of a connector 530 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 6 Examples of a broken connector 530 and a circuit board 510 separated from the busbar 520 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.

[0095] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some implementations, the battery assembly (e.g., Figure 3 The battery assembly 300 may include a plurality of battery cells, a circuit board 510 for measuring information associated with the plurality of battery cells or for controlling and / or managing the plurality of battery cells, a plurality of busbars 520 for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells to each other, and a plurality of terminals 530 for connecting the circuit board 510 to each of the plurality of busbars 520. The circuit board 510 may be electrically connected to the plurality of busbars 520 via the plurality of terminals 530.

[0096] In some embodiments, the connector 530 may be disposed above the busbar 520 (e.g., in the D3 direction). More specifically, the connector 530 may include a coupling portion 532 and a through hole 534, the coupling portion 532 being coupled to at least a portion of the upper surface of the busbar 520, and a fastening member to be connected to the busbar 520 being inserted into the through hole 534. The coupling portion 532 may be coupled to at least a portion of the upper surface of the busbar 520 by means of ultrasonic welding or the like. Additionally, the busbar 520 and the connector 530 may be coupled to each other by a fastening member fastened via the through hole 534.

[0097] In some embodiments, the connector 530 may include a break portion 536, which may be cut to separate the busbar 520 and the circuit board 510 from each other. More specifically, the break portion 536 may be disposed on the connector 530 between the circuit board 510 and the busbar 520. The break portion 536 may include a plurality of break holes 538. The plurality of break holes 538 may be arranged along a direction perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the connector 530. Therefore, the break portion 536 may break along the plurality of break holes 538 (e.g., it may break easily).

[0098] In some implementations, reference Figure 6 The connector 530 can be cut and separated approximately at the break portion 536. In this case, the first connector 542 of the connector 530, which is attached to the busbar 520, can remain attached to the busbar 520. On the other hand, the second connector 544 of the connector 530, which is attached to the circuit board 510, can be separated from the busbar 520 together with the circuit board 510. The first connector 542 attached to the busbar 520 may include a connecting portion 532 and a through hole 534.

[0099] In some embodiments, the cut surface 540 of the cut terminal piece 530 may be coated for protection. More specifically, the cut surface 540 may be coated with various suitable resins such as epoxy, polyurethane, or silicone, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Therefore, accidents that may be caused by the cut surface 540, including its sharp edges, can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0100] exist Figure 5 In the illustration, the fractured portion 536 is shown as being cut through a plurality of fracture holes 538, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the fractured portion 536 can be cut using a cutter.

[0101] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing an example of a busbar 720 and a circuit board 710 connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 8This is a plan view showing an example of a busbar 720 and a circuit board 710 connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a busbar 720 and a circuit board 710 connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0102] refer to Figures 7 to 9 In some embodiments, the battery assembly may include a plurality of battery cells, a circuit board 710 for measuring information associated with the plurality of battery cells or for controlling and / or managing the plurality of battery cells, a plurality of busbars 720 for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells to each other, and a busbar bracket 730 for supporting the plurality of busbars 720. The circuit board 710 may be electrically connected to the plurality of busbars 720 via connectors.

[0103] In some embodiments, circuit board 710 may be a circuit board that needs to be replaced due to a blown or faulty fuse. More specifically, the first circuit board may be electrically connected to bus bar 720 via a first connector 740. When replacement is required or desired due to a blown or faulty fuse in the first circuit board, the first circuit board may be detached from bus bar 720, as referenced above. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The second circuit board, to be connected to the multiple second terminals 750, can then be prepared. Figure 7 The circuit board 710 shown can correspond to the second circuit board. Additionally, the circuit board 710 can be connected to the busbar 720 by a second connector 750 connected to the busbar 720.

[0104] In some embodiments, the second terminal block 750 may be disposed in the thickness direction of the first terminal block 740 (e.g., the upper side or the D3 direction). Figure 7 The first terminal block 740 shown can correspond to the one referenced above. Figure 6 The first terminal block 542 is maintained in connection with the busbar 520. (See reference...) Figure 9 The first terminal block 740 may include a bonding portion 742 that is bonded to at least a portion of the upper surface of the busbar 720.

[0105] In some embodiments, the battery assembly may further include a fastening member 760 that connects the second terminal 750 and the busbar 720 to each other. For more details, refer to... Figure 9The first connector 740 may include a first through-hole 744, the second connector 750 may include a second through-hole 754 corresponding to (e.g., overlapping) the first through-hole 744, and the busbar 720 may include a third through-hole 724 corresponding to (e.g., overlapping) the first through-hole 744 and the second through-hole 754. In this configuration, the fastening member 760 can connect the second connector 750 to the busbar 720 by being fastened via the first through-hole 744, the second through-hole 754, and the third through-hole 724.

[0106] In some embodiments, the fastening member 760 may include a head portion 762 and a protruding portion 764, the protruding portion 764 protruding from the head portion 762 and inserted into a first through hole 744, a second through hole 754, and a third through hole 724. For example, the fastening member 760 may be a rivet, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Reference Figure 8 The diameter d of the head portion 762 can be smaller than the width W1 of the second terminal piece 750.

[0107] In some embodiments, the fastening member 760 may include a conductive material. In other embodiments, the fastening member 760 may include a non-conductive material. In this case, the circuit board 710 and the busbar 720 may be electrically connected to each other via a second terminal 750 and a first terminal 740 in contact with the second terminal 750. The first terminal 740 and / or the second terminal 750 may include nickel contacts to reduce contact resistance, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0108] In some embodiments, the method of connecting the first terminal block 740 to the circuit board 710 and the busbar 720 can be different from the method of connecting the second terminal block 750 to the circuit board 710 and the busbar 720. For example, the first terminal block 740 can be connected to the busbar 720 by ultrasonic welding or the like while simultaneously connecting to the first circuit board before replacement. On the other hand, the second terminal block 750 can be connected to the busbar 720 by riveting or the like while simultaneously connecting to the second circuit board after replacement (e.g., circuit board 710), and can be positioned above the first terminal block 740.

[0109] In some embodiments, the busbar 720 may include a retaining groove 722 to secure the end of each of the first connector 740 and the second connector 750. In this case, one end of the second connector 750 may be connected to the circuit board 710. (See reference...) Figure 8 The width W2 of the fixing groove 722 can be greater than the width W1 of the second connector 750.

[0110] In some embodiments, the other end (e.g., the opposite end) of the second connector 750 can be bent and inserted into the retaining groove 722. Similarly, the end of the first connector 740 can also be bent and inserted into the retaining groove 722. In this case, because the first connector 740 is positioned below the second connector 750, the end of the first connector 740 can be bent more inward relative to the end of the second connector 750 and can be inserted into the retaining groove 722. Therefore, rotation of the second connector 750 engaged with the fastening member 760 can be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0111] The second connector, which connects to the replacement circuit board, can be positioned above the first connector without removing all existing first connectors. Furthermore, the replacement circuit board and the busbar can be electrically connected to each other by connecting the second connector and the busbar to each other. Therefore, damaged circuit boards in the battery assembly can be replaced (e.g., easily).

[0112] Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing an example of a busbar 1020 and a circuit board 1010 connected to each other according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0113] refer to Figure 10 In some embodiments, the battery assembly may include a plurality of battery cells, a circuit board 1010 for measuring information associated with the plurality of battery cells or for controlling and / or managing the plurality of battery cells, a plurality of busbars 1020 for electrically connecting the plurality of battery cells to each other, and a busbar support 1030 for supporting the plurality of busbars 1020. The circuit board 1010 may be electrically connected to the plurality of busbars 1020 via a first terminal block 1040 and a second terminal block 1050.

[0114] In some embodiments, circuit board 1010 may be a circuit board that needs to be replaced due to a blown or faulty fuse. More specifically, the first circuit board may be electrically connected to bus bar 1020 via a first terminal block 1040. When replacement is required or desired due to a blown or faulty fuse in the first circuit board, the first circuit board may be detached from bus bar 1020, as referenced above. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The second circuit board, which will then be connected to the multiple second terminals 1050, can be prepared thereafter. Figure 10 The circuit board 1010 shown can correspond to the second circuit board. In addition, the circuit board 1010 can be connected to the bus bar 1020 by a second terminal 1050 connected to the first terminal 1040.

[0115] In some embodiments, the second terminal block 1050 may be disposed on the thickness direction of the first terminal block 1040 (e.g., the upper side or the D3 direction). Figure 10The first terminal block 1040 shown can correspond to the one referenced above. Figure 6 The first terminal block 542 is held in place by the busbar 520. The second terminal block 1050 may be electrically connected to the first terminal block 1040 by an adhesive comprising a conductive material. At least some of the first terminal block 1040 and the second terminal block 1050 may comprise a nickel material, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0116] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method 1100 for replacing a circuit board for a battery assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0117] refer to Figure 11 In some embodiments, a method 1100 for replacing a circuit board of a battery assembly may be initiated, and in response to a request to replace a first circuit board connected to a plurality of busbars via a plurality of first terminals, the plurality of first terminals may be cut to separate the first circuit board from the plurality of busbars (S1110). Each of the plurality of first terminals may include a coupling portion that is coupled to at least a portion of the upper surface of a corresponding busbar among the plurality of busbars.

[0118] Subsequently, a second circuit board can be prepared to connect to the plurality of second terminals (S1120). The plurality of second terminals can then be connected to the plurality of busbars (S1130), and method 1100 can be completed. Each of the plurality of second terminals can be positioned in the thickness direction (or upper side) of a corresponding one of the plurality of cut first terminals. More specifically, each of the plurality of second terminals can be electrically connected to the upper surface of a corresponding one of the plurality of cut first terminals. Additionally, the cut surface of each of the plurality of cut first terminals can be coated for protection.

[0119] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first terminals may include a fracture portion, which is cut to separate the plurality of busbars and the circuit board from each other. The fracture portion may be disposed between the first circuit board and the plurality of busbars. Alternatively, the fracture portion may include a plurality of fracture holes.

[0120] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first connectors may include a first through-hole, and each of the plurality of second connectors may include a second through-hole. Additionally, each of the plurality of busbars may include a third through-hole. In this case, a fastening member may be fastened to the first through-hole of each of the plurality of first connectors, the second through-hole of each of the plurality of second connectors, and the third through-hole of each of the plurality of busbars to connect the plurality of second connectors to the plurality of busbars.

[0121] In some embodiments, the fastening member may include a head portion and a protruding portion that protrudes from the head portion and inserts into a first through-hole of each of a plurality of first tabs, a second through-hole of each of a plurality of second tabs, and a third through-hole of each of a plurality of busbars. The diameter of the head portion may be smaller than the width of the second tabs. Additionally, the fastening member may include a conductive material.

[0122] In some implementations, each of the plurality of busbars may include a retaining groove to secure the ends of a plurality of first connectors and a plurality of second connectors. Additionally, one end of each of the plurality of second connectors may be connected to a second circuit board. In this case, the other end (e.g., the opposite end) of each of the plurality of second connectors may be inserted into the retaining groove of each of the plurality of busbars. More specifically, the other end of each of the plurality of second connectors may be bent and inserted into the retaining groove of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

[0123] Although the present disclosure has been described above with respect to embodiments thereof, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Various modifications and variations may be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit of the present disclosure and the equivalents of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for replacing a circuit board of a battery assembly, the method comprising: Cut multiple first connectors to separate the first circuit board from multiple busbars; A second circuit board is prepared to be connected to multiple second connectors; as well as Connect the plurality of second terminals to the plurality of busbars. Each of the plurality of second terminals is located on a corresponding one of the plurality of first terminals that have been cut in the thickness direction.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of first terminals cut includes a coupling portion that is coupled to at least a portion of the upper surface of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of first terminals cut includes a broken portion, the broken portion being cut to separate the plurality of busbars and the first circuit board from each other.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the fractured portion was located between the first circuit board and the plurality of busbars before being cut.

5. The method according to claim 3, wherein the fractured portion includes a fracture hole.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the cut surface of each of the plurality of first terminals is coated for protection.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of first terminals includes a first through hole. Each of the plurality of second terminals includes a second through hole. Each of the plurality of busbars includes a third through-hole, and Connecting the plurality of second terminals to the plurality of busbars includes: The fastening members are secured through the first through hole, the second through hole, and the third through hole to connect the plurality of second terminals to the plurality of busbars.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the fastening member comprises: Head part; as well as The protruding portion protrudes from the head portion and inserts into the first through hole, the second through hole, and the third through hole, and The diameter of the head portion is smaller than the width of each of the second terminals.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the fastening member comprises a conductive material.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of busbars includes a fixing groove that fixes an end of a corresponding one of the plurality of first connectors and an end of a corresponding one of the plurality of second connectors.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein one end of each of the plurality of second terminals is connected to the second circuit board, and Connecting the plurality of second terminals to the plurality of busbars includes inserting the other end of each of the plurality of second terminals into the retaining slot of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the other end of each of the plurality of second terminals is bent and inserted into the retaining groove of the corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein at least some of the plurality of first terminals and the plurality of second terminals comprise nickel terminals.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein connecting the plurality of second terminals to the plurality of busbars comprises: Each of the plurality of second terminals is electrically connected to the upper surface of the corresponding one of the plurality of first terminals that have been cut.

15. A battery assembly, comprising: Multiple battery cells; Multiple busbars electrically connect the multiple battery cells to each other; The circuit board is electrically connected to the plurality of busbars; Multiple first terminals are located on the multiple busbars in the thickness direction; as well as Multiple second terminals are located on the multiple first terminals in the thickness direction, and the multiple busbars and the circuit board are connected to each other.

16. The battery assembly of claim 15, wherein each of the plurality of first terminals includes a coupling portion that is coupled to at least a portion of the upper surface of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

17. The battery assembly of claim 15, wherein each of the plurality of first terminals includes a first through-hole. Each of the plurality of second terminals includes a second through hole. Each of the plurality of busbars includes a third through-hole, and The battery assembly further includes a fastening member that is fastened through the first through hole, the second through hole, and the third through hole to connect the plurality of second terminals to the plurality of busbars.

18. The battery assembly of claim 15, wherein each of the plurality of busbars includes a retaining groove that retains an end of a corresponding one of the plurality of first terminals and an end of a corresponding one of the plurality of second terminals. One end of each of the plurality of second terminals is connected to the circuit board, and The other end of each of the plurality of second connectors is inserted into the fixing slot of the corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

19. A battery assembly, comprising: Multiple battery cells; Multiple busbars electrically connect the multiple battery cells to each other; The circuit board is electrically connected to the plurality of busbars; as well as Multiple terminals are located on the multiple busbars in the thickness direction. Each of the plurality of terminals includes: The joining portion is joined to at least a portion of the upper surface of a corresponding one of the plurality of busbars; as well as Through-hole, for attaching the fastening member to the corresponding one of the plurality of manifolds.

20. The battery assembly of claim 19, wherein each of the plurality of busbars includes a retaining groove that secures an end of a corresponding terminal piece among the plurality of terminal pieces. One end of each of the plurality of terminals is connected to the circuit board, and The other end of each of the plurality of terminals is inserted into the fixing slot of the corresponding one of the plurality of busbars.

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