Secondary battery module and secondary battery cooling device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a secondary battery module and a secondary battery cooling apparatus, which can supply substantially the same amount of cooling air without deviation to a plurality of batteries because the distribution of the cooling air discharged from a cooling plate in close contact with the batteries is substantially uniform over the entire surface of the cooling plate. The secondary battery module includes a secondary battery pack formed of a plurality of batteries, and a cooling air transmission portion in contact with the secondary battery pack and configured to pass a cooling fluid supplied from the outside of the secondary battery module and transmit cooling air of the cooling fluid to the secondary battery pack, wherein a cooling fluid passage through which the cooling fluid passes is formed in the cooling air transmission portion, the cooling fluid passage has an inlet and an outlet, and a fluid flow cross-sectional area of the cooling fluid passage increases from the inlet to the outlet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to secondary batteries, and more specifically, to secondary battery modules and secondary battery cooling devices. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which cannot be recharged, secondary batteries are rechargeable and dischargeable. Typically, a secondary battery consists of an electrode assembly containing positive and negative electrode plates and a separator, as well as external materials (battery canister or casing) to house the electrode assembly. Electrode assemblies can be classified into wound electrode assemblies and stacked electrode assemblies based on the stacking method of the electrode plates and separator. Wound types are called core-type electrode assemblies, and stacked types are called stacked electrode assemblies. Additionally, secondary batteries can be classified into pouch-type, cylindrical, and prismatic secondary batteries based on the material and shape of the external materials.

[0003] Meanwhile, secondary battery modules formed by connecting multiple secondary batteries generate heat during charging and discharging. If this heat is not dissipated quickly, battery performance may deteriorate, and in severe cases, thermal runaway may occur. To address this, secondary battery modules include cooling plates. These cooling plates have a structure that transfers cool air to the secondary batteries while maintaining close contact with them. However, conventional cooling plates suffer from poor cooling efficiency because they cannot uniformly distribute cool air to the secondary batteries.

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

[0005] This disclosure aims to provide a secondary battery module and a secondary battery cooling device that can improve overall cooling efficiency by providing approximately the same amount of unbiased cold air to multiple secondary batteries.

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a secondary battery module is provided, the secondary battery module comprising: a secondary battery pack formed of a plurality of secondary batteries; and a cold air transmission section in contact with the secondary battery pack and configured to allow cooling fluid supplied from outside the battery module to pass through and to transmit the cooling fluid to the secondary battery pack, wherein a cooling fluid channel through which the cooling fluid passes is formed in the cold air transmission section and has an inlet and an outlet, and the fluid flow profile area of ​​the cooling fluid channel increases from the inlet to the outlet.

[0007] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a secondary battery cooling device is provided, comprising: a cold air transmission section mounted to contact a secondary battery pack formed by a plurality of secondary batteries; and a cooling fluid circulation section configured to allow cooling fluid to pass through the cold air transmission section, wherein a cooling fluid channel through which the cooling fluid passes is formed in the cold air transmission section and has an inlet and an outlet, and the fluid flow profile area of ​​the cooling fluid channel increases from the inlet to the outlet.

[0008] The aspects and features of this disclosure are not limited to those described herein, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the description of this disclosure herein other aspects and features not specifically mentioned herein. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and further describe aspects and features of the disclosure together with the detailed description thereof. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the basic structure of a secondary battery to be cooled by a secondary battery cooling device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall structure of a secondary battery cooling device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 3 This is a planar cross-sectional view showing a cooling plate in a secondary battery cooling device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view of line AA;

[0014] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 3 A plan sectional view of a modified example of the cooling plate shown;

[0015] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 A sectional view of line BB;

[0016] Figure 7 This is a plan view illustrating another example of a cooling plate in a secondary battery cooling device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 8 It is along Figure 7 A sectional view of line CC;

[0018] Figure 9 It is used to describe Figure 8 A diagram showing the function of the cooling water deceleration groove in the cooling plate;

[0019] Figure 10 This is a plan sectional view showing yet another example of a cooling plate in a secondary battery cooling device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 11 This is an exploded cross-sectional perspective view showing yet another example of a cooling plate in a secondary battery cooling device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 11 A planar cross-sectional view of the cooling plate shown;

[0022] Figure 13 This shows the view from the entrance and exit directions. Figure 11 A diagram of the cooling plate;

[0023] Figure 14 This is an exploded perspective view showing yet another example of a cooling plate in a secondary battery cooling device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 15 It is shown Figure 14 Sectional views of the first and second main bodies;

[0025] Figure 16 It is shown Figure 14 A diagram showing the first and second main bodies welded together;

[0026] Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing a secondary battery pack using a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0027] Figure 18 It shows that it has been applied. Figure 17 A picture of a vehicle with a secondary battery pack. Detailed Implementation

[0028] In the following, embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims are not to be interpreted narrowly according to their ordinary or dictionary meaning, but should be interpreted as having meanings and concepts consistent with the technical spirit of this disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor may be his / her own lexicographer to appropriately define the concepts of the terms in order to best describe his / her disclosure. The embodiments described in this specification and the constructions shown in the drawings are merely some embodiments of this disclosure and do not represent all aspects, features, and embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist that can replace or modify one or more embodiments or features described herein at the time of filing of this application.

[0029] It will be further understood that if the terms “comprising,” “including,” and / or variations thereof are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0030] In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be exaggerated for clarity. The same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0031] 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 (e.g., 5% or less). Additionally, uniformity of parameters within a predetermined region can mean uniformity from an average perspective.

[0032] Although the terms first, second, etc., are used to describe various components, these components are not fundamentally limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise stated, the first component can of course also be the second component.

[0033] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0034] Placing any element "above (or below)" or "on (below)" another element can mean that the element can contact the upper (or lower) surface of the element, and that another element can be placed between the element and any element located above (or below) the element.

[0035] Additionally, it will be understood that if a component is referred to as “linked,” “combined,” or “connected” to another component, then the components can be directly “combined,” “linked,” or “connected” to each other, or another component can be “placed” between these components.

[0036] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, the use of “may” refers to “one or more embodiments of this disclosure” when describing embodiments of the present disclosure. Expressions such as “at least one of…” and “any one of…” modify the entire list of elements if they follow a list of elements, but not individual elements within that list.

[0037] Throughout the specification, if “A and / or B” is stated, it means A, B or A and B unless otherwise stated, and if “C to D” is stated, it means C or greater and D or less unless otherwise stated.

[0038] 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 of A, B, and C”, or “at least one of A, B, and C”, the phrase may refer to any suitable combination (or subset) of A, B, and C and all suitable combinations (or subsets) such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C.

[0039] As used herein, the term "use" and its variations may be considered synonymous with the term "utilize" and its variations, respectively. As used herein, the terms "substantially," "about," and similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree, and are intended to account for inherent biases in measurements or calculations that will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0040] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or 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, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first portion discussed herein may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0041] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “lower,” “above,” and “upper” are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element(s) shown in the figure. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figure, the spatial relative terms are intended to also cover different orientations of the device during 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 subsequently be oriented “above” or “above” said other elements or features. Therefore, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations.

[0042] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the basic structure of a secondary battery to be cooled by a secondary battery cooling device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The secondary battery 15 shown is a prismatic secondary battery.

[0044] The housing 15a defines the overall appearance of the prismatic secondary battery and can be made of a conductive metal such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. Additionally, the housing 15a provides space for housing the electrode assembly therein.

[0045] The cover assembly 15b may include a cover plate 15c that covers the opening of the housing 15a. In some examples, the housing 15a and the cover plate 15c may be made of a conductive material. Here, the first terminal 15d and the second terminal 15e may be electrically connected to corresponding positive and negative electrodes (or negative and positive electrodes) inside the housing and may be mounted to protrude outward through the cover plate 15c.

[0046] The cover plate 15c may be equipped with an electrolyte injection port 15f formed for mounting a sealing plug (or sealing pin) and an exhaust port 15h connected to a gas vent 15g. The exhaust port 15h is used to discharge gases generated inside the secondary battery.

[0047] Suitable materials that can be used in secondary batteries according to embodiments of this disclosure will be described below.

[0048] As the positive electrode active material, compounds capable of reversibly inserting / deintercalating lithium (e.g., lithiated intercalation compounds) can be used. For example, a composite oxide of lithium with at least one of metals selected from cobalt, manganese, nickel, and combinations thereof can be used.

[0049] The composite oxide can be a lithium transition metal composite oxide, and examples of it can include lithium nickel oxides, lithium cobalt oxides, lithium manganese oxides, lithium iron phosphate compounds, cobalt-free lithium nickel manganese oxides, or combinations thereof.

[0050] As an example, a compound represented by any of the following formulas can be used: Li a A 1-b X b O 2-c D c (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.05); Li a Mn 2-b X b O 4-c D c (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.05); Li a Ni 1-b-c Co b X c O 2-α D α (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.5, 0<α<2); Li a Ni 1-b-c Mnb X c O 2-α D α (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.5, 0<α<2); Li a Ni b Co c L 1 d G e O2 (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.9, 0≤c≤0.5, 0≤d≤0.5, 0≤e≤0.1); Li a NiG b O2 (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a CoG b O2 (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a Mn 1-b G b O2 (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a Mn2G b O4 (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a Mn 1-g G g PO4 (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤g≤0.5); Li (3-f) Fe2(PO4)3 (0≤f≤2); and Li a FePO4 (0.90≤a≤1.8).

[0051] In the chemical formula here: A is Ni, Co, Mn or a combination thereof; X is Al, Ni, Co, Mn, Cr, Fe, Mg, Sr, V, rare earth elements or a combination thereof; D is O, F, S, P or a combination thereof; G is Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Mg, La, Ce, Sr, V or a combination thereof; and L 1 It is Mn, Al, or a combination thereof.

[0052] The positive electrode for a lithium secondary battery may include a substrate and a layer of positive electrode active material formed on the substrate. The positive electrode active material layer may include a positive electrode active material, and may also include a binder and / or a conductive material.

[0053] Based on a 100wt% positive electrode active material layer, the content of the positive electrode active material is in the range of about 90wt% to about 99wt%, and based on the 100wt% positive electrode active material layer, the contents of the binder and the conductive material are in the range of about 0.5wt% to about 5wt%, respectively.

[0054] The substrate can be aluminum (Al), but is not limited thereto.

[0055] The negative electrode active material can include a material capable of reversibly intercalating / deintercalating lithium ions, lithium metal, an alloy of lithium metal, a material capable of doping and dedoping lithium, or a transition metal oxide.

[0056] The material capable of reversibly intercalating / deintercalating lithium ions can be a carbon-based negative electrode active material, which can include, for example, crystalline carbon, amorphous carbon, or a combination thereof. Examples of crystalline carbon can include graphite, such as natural graphite or artificial graphite, and examples of amorphous carbon can include soft carbon, hard carbon, pitch carbide, mesophase pitch carbide, sintered coke, etc.

[0057] Si-based negative electrode active material or Sn-based negative electrode active material can be used as a material capable of doping and dedoping lithium. The Si-based negative electrode active material can be silicon, a silicon-carbon composite, SiO x (0 < x ≤ 2), a Si-based alloy, or a combination thereof.

[0058] The silicon-carbon composite can be a composite of silicon and amorphous carbon. According to one embodiment, the silicon-carbon composite can be in the form of silicon particles and amorphous carbon coated on the surface of the silicon particles.

[0059] The silicon-carbon composite can further include crystalline carbon. For example, the silicon-carbon composite can include a core containing crystalline carbon and silicon particles and an amorphous carbon coating on the surface of the core.

[0060] The negative electrode for a lithium secondary battery can include a substrate and a negative electrode active material layer provided on the substrate. The negative electrode active material layer can include a negative electrode active material and can further include a binder and / or a conductive material.

[0061] For example, the negative electrode active material layer can include about 90 wt% to about 99 wt% of the negative electrode active material, about 0.5 wt% to about 5 wt% of the binder, and about 0 wt% to about 5 wt% of the conductive material.

[0062] A non-aqueous binder, an aqueous binder, a dry binder, or a combination thereof can be used as the binder. When using an aqueous binder as the negative electrode binder, a cellulose-based compound capable of imparting viscosity can be further included.

[0063] As the negative electrode substrate, one selected from a copper foil, a nickel foil, a stainless steel foil, a titanium foil, a nickel foam, a copper foam, a polymer substrate coated with a conductive metal, and a combination thereof can be used.

[0064] The electrolyte for a lithium secondary battery can include a non-aqueous organic solvent and a lithium salt.

[0065] Non-aqueous organic solvents are used as a medium through which ions participating in the electrochemical reactions of the battery can move.

[0066] Non-aqueous organic solvents can be carbonate solvents, ester solvents, ether solvents, ketone solvents, alcohol solvents, and aprotic solvents, and can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0067] In addition, when using carbonate solvents, a mixture of cyclic carbonates and chain carbonates can be used.

[0068] Depending on the type of lithium-ion secondary battery, a separator may be present between the first electrode plate (e.g., the negative electrode) and the second electrode plate (e.g., the positive electrode). Polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, or multilayer films comprising two or more layers thereof can be used as the separator.

[0069] The membrane may include a porous substrate and a coating on one or both surfaces of the porous substrate, comprising organic materials, inorganic materials or combinations thereof.

[0070] Organic materials may include polymers such as polyvinylidene fluoride or (meth)acrylic acid polymers.

[0071] Inorganic materials may include, but are not limited to, inorganic particles selected from Al2O3, SiO2, TiO2, SnO2, CeO2, MgO, NiO, CaO, GaO, ZnO, ZrO2, Y2O3, SrTiO3, BaTiO3, Mg(OH)2, boehmite and combinations thereof.

[0072] Organic and inorganic materials can be mixed in a coating, or they can be in the form of a coating that includes (or contains) organic materials and a coating that includes (or contains) inorganic materials stacked on top of each other.

[0073] Multiple secondary batteries 15 having the structure described herein are combined to form Figure 2 A secondary battery pack 21. The secondary battery pack 21 can be combined with the cooling plate 40 to form a secondary battery module 20. In addition, the secondary battery pack 21 can be a cooling target to be cooled by the cooling plate 40.

[0074] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall structure of a secondary battery cooling device 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] The secondary battery cooling device 30 may include a cold air transmission section and a cooling fluid circulation section. The cold air transmission section is used to transmit cold air to the secondary battery pack 21 when it is installed in close contact with the secondary battery pack 21. In this embodiment, a cooling plate 40 is used as the cold air transmission section. The cooling plate 40 will be described here.

[0076] The cooling fluid circulation section moves cooling fluid to the cold air transmission section. The cooling fluid circulation section may include a cooler 23 and a circulation pump 25. The cooler 23 is connected to the cold air transmission section via a circulation pipe 26. The cooler 23 is used to cool the cooling fluid that has already undergone heat exchange while passing through the cold air transmission section. Additionally, the circulation pump 25 can continuously circulate the cooling fluid. Specifically, the cooling fluid circulated by the circulation pump 25 has the same flow rate per hour at any point. The cooling fluid may include cooling water.

[0077] Figure 3 This is a planar sectional view of the cooling plate 40 of the cold air transmission section in the secondary battery cooling device 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view of line AA.

[0078] The cooling plate 40 can be in close contact with the bottom surface of the secondary battery pack 21, allowing the cooling fluid supplied through the circulation pipe 26 to pass through and transferring the cool air of the cooling fluid to the secondary battery pack 21.

[0079] The cooling plate 40 includes an inlet 43 and an outlet 47, and provides a cooling fluid passage for the passage of cooling fluid. Specifically, the fluid flow profile area of ​​the cooling fluid passage increases from the inlet 43 to the outlet 47. That is, the fluid flow profile area is... Figure 3 The arrow 'a' increases in the direction of the arrow.

[0080] The cooling plate 40 has a plate-like shape with a certain thickness and can be located below the secondary battery pack 21. The cooling plate 40 is in close contact with the bottom surface of the secondary battery pack 21 to allow heat transfer.

[0081] Specifically, the heat transfer area of ​​each secondary battery 15 constituting the secondary battery pack 21 relative to the cooling plate 40 is the same. In other words, the contact area of ​​each secondary battery 15 relative to the upper surface of the cooling plate 40 is the same.

[0082] The reason for configuring the contact area to be the same is that when the cold air dissipated to the upper part of the cooling plate 40 is not localized but uniform across the entire surface, the same amount of cold air can be delivered to each secondary battery 15.

[0083] like Figure 3 As shown, the cooling fluid passage may include a first passage 41a and a second passage 41e separated by a partition wall 45. The first passage 41a and the second passage 41e may be connected by a connecting passage 41c. The first passage 41a opens toward the inlet 43, and the second passage 41e opens toward the outlet 47.

[0084] Therefore, the cooling fluid introduced into the inlet 43 through the circulation pipe 26 can exchange heat with the cooling plate 40 while flowing through the first channel 41a, the connecting channel 41c, and the second channel 41e. The cooling plate 40, heated by receiving heat from the secondary battery pack 21, exchanges heat with the cooling fluid.

[0085] Furthermore, the first channel 41a and the second channel 41e can be arranged horizontally relative to each other. That is, the first channel 41a and the second channel 41e can have the same height. Since the first channel 41a and the second channel 41e have the same height, the first channel 41a and the second channel 41e have the same distance from the secondary battery pack. In other words, the distance between the first channel 41a and the secondary battery pack 21 and the distance between the second channel 41e and the secondary battery pack 21 can be made the same.

[0086] As described herein, the cooling plate 40 can dissipate heat from the secondary battery pack 21 while maintaining close contact with the bottom surface of the secondary battery pack 21. Cooling fluid absorbs heat from the secondary battery pack 21 and is discharged through the outlet 47. The cooling fluid channel has a structure with a cross-sectional area increasing from the inlet 43 to the outlet 47, ensuring that cool air is uniformly supplied to the secondary battery pack 21. That is, the same amount of cool air is transferred to each secondary battery 15, thereby preventing unbalanced cooling.

[0087] At the same time, refer to Figure 4 As can be seen, the area of ​​outlet 47 is relatively wider than the area of ​​inlet 43. As described herein, the fluid flow profile area of ​​the cooling fluid channels inside the cooling plate 40 increases from inlet 43 to outlet 47, resulting in a relatively wide flow profile area at outlet 47. For example, the flow profile area of ​​the first channel 41a increases from inlet 43 to connecting channel 41c, and the flow profile area of ​​the second channel 41e increases from connecting channel 41c to outlet 47.

[0088] Due to the difference in flow profile area, the flow rate of the cooling fluid flowing into inlet 43 is relatively slower than that of the cooling fluid flowing out of outlet 47. The slower flow rate can mean a relatively longer heat exchange time with the heat source.

[0089] Since the cooling fluid newly introduced through inlet 43 has not yet begun heat exchange, the temperature of the cooling fluid (relative to the cooling fluid discharged through outlet 47) is low, and the time required for heat exchange can be shorter than the time required for heat exchange on the outlet 47 side. Assume the temperature difference between the cooling fluid at inlet 43 and the secondary battery pack is ΔT1.

[0090] Because the cooling fluid flows in the direction of arrow a and its temperature gradually increases, the temperature difference ΔT2 between the cooling fluid at outlet 47 and the secondary battery pack 21 becomes smaller than the temperature difference ΔT1. With a smaller temperature difference, the heat exchange time should be longer to achieve the same amount of heat exchange. Furthermore, to extend the heat exchange time relatively further as one approaches outlet 47, the flow profile area of ​​the cooling fluid is increased from inlet 43 to outlet 47. At the same flow rate per hour, a wider flow profile area results in a longer time required to traverse the flow profile area.

[0091] In another example, the flow profile area of ​​the first channel 41a can be kept constant, and only the flow profile area of ​​the second channel 41e can be designed to increase downstream. Alternatively, the flow profile area of ​​the second channel 41e can be kept constant, and only the flow profile area of ​​the first channel 41a can be designed to increase downstream.

[0092] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 3 A plan sectional view of a modified example of the cooling plate 40 shown. Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the BB line.

[0093] As shown in the figure, multiple expansion grooves 41g can be formed in the second channel 41e. The expansion grooves 41g are grooves with a circular bottom surface, and their width and depth can gradually increase towards the outlet 47. By applying the expansion grooves 41g, the cooling fluid passing through the second channel 41e and approaching the outlet 47 can be decelerated more quickly.

[0094] The expansion channel 41g, with its current shape, allows for a more effective mechanism to slow the cooling fluid as it approaches the outlet 47. The cooling fluid flows in at a relatively high velocity through the inlet 43, but due to the increased shape of the expansion channel 41g, the velocity can decrease more rapidly as it passes through the second channel 41e. These flow characteristics are possible because the increased flow profile of the cooling fluid allows it to occupy more space, which reduces the velocity.

[0095] Furthermore, as the flow rate of the cooling fluid towards outlet 47 decreases, the time for heat exchange between the cooling fluid and the secondary battery pack 21 increases, enabling more efficient and uniform cooling. Because the cooling fluid velocity decreases, the relatively rapid heat exchange at inlet 43 slows down as the cooling fluid approaches outlet 47, which improves cooling efficiency.

[0096] Figure 5The structural characteristics of the expansion slot 41g play a crucial role in achieving efficient heat exchange by altering the flow profile area and controlling the velocity of the cooling fluid. The shape, size, or mounting location of the expansion slot 41g can be achieved in various ways through other examples.

[0097] Furthermore, even for those with Figure 5 and Figure 6 The cooling plate 40, as shown in the diagram, can also be modified in various ways for the first channel 41a and the second channel 41e. For example, while keeping the flow profile area of ​​the first channel 41a constant, the flow profile area of ​​the second channel 41e can be designed to increase only towards the outlet 47. Conversely, the flow profile area of ​​the second channel 41e can remain constant, and the flow profile area of ​​the first channel 41a can increase towards the downstream direction to enhance the downstream cooling effect.

[0098] These modifications enable further optimization of the performance of the cooling plate 40 by allowing various adjustments to the flow rate of the cooling fluid and the heat exchange time.

[0099] Figure 7 This is a plan view illustrating the cooling plate 40 in a secondary battery cooling device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 8 It is along Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of line CC. Figure 9 It is used to describe Figure 8 The diagram shows the function of the cooling water deceleration groove in the cooling plate.

[0100] As shown in the figure, a flow rate detection unit may be formed on the inner surface of the second channel 41e. The flow rate detection unit can be used to further reduce the flow rate of the cooling fluid passing through the second channel 41e toward the outlet 47.

[0101] The deceleration groove 41k can be used as a flow rate detection unit. The deceleration groove 41k can also have a shape such as a V-shaped notch. The deceleration groove 41k can disrupt the flow of cooling fluid through the second channel 41e and slow down the flow velocity of the cooling fluid. Since some fluid through the second channel 41e must enter and exit the deceleration groove 41k, the average streamline length of the cooling fluid can become longer, thus reducing the flow velocity.

[0102] The description herein will be presented in more detail below. As the cooling fluid flows through the second channel 41e and toward the outlet 47, the flow rate detection unit is responsible for further reducing the flow rate of the cooling fluid. This structural feature solves the problem of rapid cooling fluid flow without sufficient heat exchange time.

[0103] Furthermore, the deceleration groove 41k, used as a flow velocity detection unit, can have a V-shaped notch and effectively disrupt the flow of fluid through the second channel 41e. In other words, the deceleration groove 41k alters the fluid flow to prevent the cooling fluid from passing through the channel in a straight line, and it can complicate the flow of the cooling fluid to reduce its velocity.

[0104] The deceleration groove 41k works as follows: A portion of the cooling fluid passing through the second channel 41e enters the deceleration groove 41k, where its flow velocity is disturbed and the streamlines become longer. As the streamline length increases, the time it takes for the fluid to traverse the entire channel increases, ultimately reducing the average velocity of the cooling fluid. The fluid trapped in the deceleration groove experiences a reduced velocity upon exiting, allowing the cooling fluid to remain within the second channel for a longer period to facilitate heat exchange.

[0105] In addition to simply reducing the flow rate, the deceleration groove 41k induces turbulence in the flow of the cooling fluid, enabling more efficient heat transfer between the cooling fluid and the inner wall of the cooling plate. Turbulence maximizes heat transfer efficiency by increasing the contact between the fluid and the wall.

[0106] This design offers significant advantages, particularly in more efficient thermal management of the secondary battery. Since the secondary battery generates heat during operation, the flow rate of the cooling fluid must be regulated to ensure sufficient heat exchange time. Structures such as the deceleration groove 41k play a crucial role in preventing the cooling fluid from flowing too rapidly, thereby increasing the heat exchange time with the secondary battery pack 21 and improving overall cooling performance.

[0107] Figure 10 This is a plan view showing a cooling plate 40 in a secondary battery cooling device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0108] As shown in the figure, multiple flow guides 49 can be disposed inside the second channel 41e. The flow guide 49 is a plate-shaped member with a certain thickness, and the lower end of the flow guide 49 can be fixed to the bottom of the second channel 41e, while the upper end of the flow guide 49 is fixed to the top of the second channel 41e. The flow guide 49 can guide the linear flow of the cooling fluid into a tortuous flow of the cooling fluid.

[0109] The cooling fluid is guided by flow guide 49, for example, by meandering back and forth in a left-right direction. The time it takes for the cooling fluid to pass through the second channel 41e increases as the streamline of the cooling fluid becomes longer, which increases the available time for heat exchange.

[0110] As described herein, the flow guide 49 is made of a plate-like member of a certain thickness and can be vertically fixed from the bottom to the top of the second channel 41e. As described herein, the plurality of flow guides 49 fixed to the second channel are intended to prevent the cooling fluid from flowing simply in a straight line and to control the flow of the cooling fluid, thereby improving overall cooling efficiency. The flow guides 49 are used to guide the cooling fluid to meander through the second channel 41e, causing the cooling fluid to meander in the left-right direction.

[0111] The main advantage achieved by making the cooling fluid flow meander is the increased streamline length. Normally, when fluid flows rapidly through a straight path, the heat exchange time is short, thus limiting cooling efficiency. However, when the flow is meandered by the flow guide 49, the cooling fluid streamline becomes longer, and the time spent through the second channel 41e naturally increases. Therefore, the heat exchange time between the cooling fluid and the cooling plate 40 is prolonged, resulting in more efficient heat dissipation.

[0112] In addition to simply impeding the flow of cooling fluid, the flow guide 49 can also be used to generate turbulence. As the cooling fluid meanders along the flow guide 49 and becomes more complex due to disturbance, the cooling fluid comes into greater contact with the wall of the cooling plate. This promotes heat transfer between the wall surface and the fluid, further enhancing cooling performance. Since turbulent flow typically has a higher heat transfer coefficient than laminar flow, the flow guide 49 can play a significant role in maximizing cooling performance.

[0113] The spacing and shape of the flow guides 49 can be adjusted in various ways. For example, when the flow guides 49 are both shorter and closer together, the fluid changes direction more frequently, which can significantly reduce the flow velocity. Conversely, by increasing the spacing of the flow guides or adjusting the height of the flow guides, it is possible to maintain the flow velocity to some extent while generating appropriate turbulence. The flexibility of this design can be optimized according to cooling requirements.

[0114] Therefore, the flow guide 49 can maximize the heat exchange time between the cooling fluid and the cooling plate by guiding the meandering flow of the cooling fluid and extending the length of the streamline, thus achieving stable thermal management of the secondary battery.

[0115] Figure 11 This is an exploded cross-sectional perspective view showing a cooling plate 40 in a secondary battery cooling device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 12 It is shown Figure 11 The image shows a planar cross-sectional view of the cooling plate. Additionally, Figure 13 This shows the view from the entrance and exit directions. Figure 11 A diagram of the cooling plate.

[0116] like Figures 11 to 13As shown, a heat exchange liner 51 can be added to the interior of the second channel 41e of the cooling plate 40. The heat exchange liner 51 can be made of copper or aluminum as a heat transfer component to improve heat transfer performance.

[0117] The heat exchange liner 51 is fixed inside the second channel 41e and allows the cooling fluid to pass through it. In addition, the contact area between the heat exchange liner 51 and the cooling fluid can be increased toward the outlet 47.

[0118] The heat exchange liner 51 may include a guide channel 51a and a plurality of heat transfer fins 51c. The guide channel 51a has a quadrilateral pipe shape and can be tightly bonded to the inner surface of the second channel 41e. The bonding method between the heat exchange liner 51 and the guide channel 51a may be welding.

[0119] Additionally, the heat transfer fins 51c can be fixed to the inner side of the guide channel 51a, simultaneously collecting the cold air from the cooling fluid and transferring it to the guide channel 51a. Furthermore, hot air transferred from the secondary battery pack 21 can be transferred to the heat transfer fins 51c through the guide channel 51a. The cooling fluid can exchange heat through the heat transfer fins 51c.

[0120] The number of heat transfer fins 51c can be increased towards the outlet. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the number of heat transfer fins 51c is two rows at the beginning of the second channel 41e, three rows thereafter, and five rows at its end.

[0121] As described herein, the number of heat transfer fins 51c increases towards the ends to expand the heat exchange area and provide uniform cooling. As described herein, since the temperature of the cooling fluid decreases towards the outlet 47, the heat exchange area should be expanded to ensure a uniform supply of cool air. The number of heat transfer fins 51c can be applied differently in various embodiments.

[0122] As described herein, the heat transfer performance is greatly improved because the cooling plate 40 has a heat exchange liner 51 inside the second channel 41e. As described herein, the heat exchange liner 51 is made of a high thermal conductivity material such as copper or aluminum, which further increases the heat transfer efficiency and allows for more uniform cooling of the secondary battery pack 21. Furthermore, the heat exchange efficiency is further improved because the heat exchange liner 51 has a structure in which the contact area with the cooling fluid is expanded towards the outlet 47.

[0123] In addition, the number of heat transfer fins 51c is designed to increase towards the outlet. By adjusting the number of heat transfer fins 51c, various cooling requirements can be met and optimal cooling performance can be provided according to various operating environments or conditions.

[0124] Figure 14 This is an exploded perspective view showing yet another example of the cooling plate 40 in a secondary battery cooling device 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15 It is shown Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the first body 61 and the second body 63. Figure 16 It is shown Figure 14 A view showing the first and second bodies welded together.

[0125] like Figure 14 As shown, the cooling plate 40, which serves as a cold air transmission unit, can be composed of a first body 61 and a second body 63. When the first body 61 and the second body 63 are combined, a cooling plate 40 can be formed.

[0126] As shown in the accompanying drawings, the cooling plate 40 may include a first body 61 and a second body 63.

[0127] The first body 61 may have an inlet 43 at one end and a first connecting channel 61c at the other end. Alternatively, the first channel 41a may be located inside the first body 61. Cooling fluid pumped by the circulating pump 25 can be introduced into the first channel 41a through the inlet 43 and then discharged through the first connecting channel 61c. The flow profile area of ​​the first channel 41a may also increase from the inlet 43 toward the first connecting channel 61c.

[0128] The second body 63 is a component paired with the first body 61 and can be welded to a side portion of the first body 61. An outlet 47 can be formed at one end of the second body 63, and a second connecting channel 63c can be formed at its other end. The second connecting channel 63c is a quadrilateral hole corresponding to the first connecting channel 61c. When the first body 61 and the second body 63 are joined, the first connecting channel 61c and the second connecting channel 63c can form a channel.

[0129] The second connecting channel 63c can receive cooling fluid flowing from the first body 61 and guide the cooling fluid to the second body 63. The cooling fluid guided to the second body 63 can be discharged to the outlet 47 through the second channel 41e. The flow profile area of ​​the second channel 41e can be increased toward the outlet 47.

[0130] Figure 16 This figure shows the state in which the first body 61 and the second body 63 are welded together. Reference numeral w indicates the welded portion. As shown in the figure, the first body 61 and the second body 63 can be in close contact with each other to form a cooling plate 40.

[0131] Meanwhile, the first body 61 and the second body 63 can be made of different metals. Specifically, the thermal conductivity of the second body 63 can be relatively higher than that of the first body 61. For example, the first body 61 can be made of aluminum alloy, and the second body 63 can be made of copper alloy.

[0132] In this way, since the thermal conductivity of the second body 63 is higher than that of the first body 61, the uniform output of cool air from the cooling plate 40 can be achieved more stably. That is, although the temperature of the cooling fluid through the second channel 41e is relatively higher than that of the cooling fluid through the first channel 41a, the heat exchange with the secondary battery pack 21 can be no less than the heat exchange performed by the first body 61 because of the relatively high thermal conductivity of the second body 63.

[0133] As described herein, the cooling plate 40 formed by combining the first body 61 and the second body 63 performs the function of effectively removing heat generated from the secondary battery 15. Furthermore, since the thermal conductivity of the second body 63 is relatively higher than that of the first body 61, a more stable and uniform cool air output can be achieved, thus improving the efficiency of the entire system.

[0134] Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing a secondary battery pack 18 in which a secondary battery module 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

[0135] Reference Figure 3 The secondary battery pack 18 may include individual battery electrically connected components and a housing that houses these components. For ease of illustration, components including busbars, cooling units, external terminals for electrically connecting the batteries, etc., are not shown in the drawings. The secondary battery pack 18 may be installed on (or in) a vehicle. The vehicle may be, for example, an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle may be a four-wheeled vehicle or a two-wheeled vehicle, but is not limited thereto.

[0136] Figure 18 It shows that it has been applied. Figure 17 A picture of a vehicle with a secondary battery pack. Figure 18 It is shown that it includes on its lower body Figure 17 The vehicle is shown with secondary battery pack 18. The vehicle can be operated by receiving power from secondary battery pack 18 (e.g., it can be driven by receiving power from secondary battery pack 18).

[0137] According to the secondary battery cooling device formed as described herein, since the distribution of the cold air discharged from the cooling plate in close contact with the secondary battery is uniform across the entire surface of the cooling plate, the same amount of unbiased cold air can be provided to multiple secondary batteries, thereby improving the overall cooling efficiency.

[0138] Although embodiments of this disclosure have been described herein, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Various modifications and variations may be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A secondary battery module, characterized in that, The secondary battery module includes: A secondary battery pack, consisting of multiple secondary batteries; and A cooling air transfer section contacts the secondary battery pack and is configured to allow cooling fluid supplied from outside the secondary battery pack to pass through and to transfer the cooling fluid's cool air to the secondary battery pack. The cooling fluid passage is formed in the cold air transmission section and has an inlet and an outlet, and the fluid flow cross-sectional area of ​​the cooling fluid passage increases from the inlet to the outlet.

2. The secondary battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the plurality of secondary batteries constituting the secondary battery pack has the same heat transfer area relative to the cooling air transmission section; and The cooling fluid passage includes a first passage open to the inlet and a second passage open to the outlet, these passages being separated by a partition wall and connected to a connecting passage.

3. The secondary battery module according to claim 2, characterized in that: The cooling air transmission unit has a plate shape and is installed below the secondary battery pack; The first channel and the second channel are arranged horizontally and have the same distance from the secondary battery pack.

4. The secondary battery module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The flow profile area of ​​the first channel increases from the inlet to the connecting channel.

5. The secondary battery module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The flow profile area of ​​the second channel increases from the connecting channel to the outlet.

6. The secondary battery module according to claim 3, characterized in that, A flow rate detection unit is formed inside the second channel to additionally reduce the flow rate of the cooling fluid passing through the second channel.

7. The secondary battery module according to claim 3, characterized in that, A heat exchange liner is installed inside the second channel, the heat exchange liner is in contact with the cooling fluid, and the contact area between the heat exchange liner and the cooling fluid increases toward the outlet.

8. The secondary battery module according to claim 7, characterized in that, The heat exchange liner includes: A guide channel, contacting the inner surface of the second channel, and configured to allow the cooling fluid to pass through; and Multiple heat transfer fins are fixed to the inner side of the guide channel and collect the cold air of the cooling fluid and transfer the cold air to the guide channel, wherein the number of the multiple heat transfer fins increases toward the outlet.

9. The secondary battery module according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the plurality of secondary batteries constituting the secondary battery pack has the same heat transfer area relative to the cold air transmission section. and The cold air transmission unit includes: A first body includes a first connecting channel and provides a first channel, has the inlet at one end, and the cooling fluid is discharged through the first connecting channel at the other end; as well as The second body has the outlet at one end and a second connection channel corresponding to the first connection channel at the other end. The second body provides the second channel and forms a cold air transmission unit by combining with the first body.

10. The secondary battery module according to claim 9, characterized in that, The thermal conductivity of the second body is relatively higher than that of the first body.

11. A secondary battery cooling device, characterized in that, The secondary battery cooling device includes: The air conditioning transmission unit is installed to contact a secondary battery pack consisting of multiple secondary batteries; and The cooling fluid circulation section is configured to allow cooling fluid to pass through the cold air transmission section. The cooling fluid passage is formed in the cold air transmission section, and the cooling fluid passage has an inlet and an outlet, and the fluid flow profile area of ​​the cooling fluid passage increases from the inlet to the outlet.

12. The secondary battery cooling device according to claim 11, characterized in that: Each of the plurality of secondary batteries constituting the secondary battery pack has the same heat transfer area relative to the cooling air transmission section; and The cooling fluid passage includes a first passage open to the inlet and a second passage open to the outlet, which are separated by a partition wall and connected to a connecting passage.

13. The secondary battery cooling device according to claim 12, characterized in that: The cooling air transmission unit has a plate shape and is installed below the secondary battery pack; The first channel and the second channel are arranged horizontally and have the same distance from the secondary battery pack.

14. The secondary battery cooling device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The flow profile area of ​​the first channel increases from the inlet toward the connecting channel.

15. The secondary battery cooling device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The flow profile area of ​​the second channel increases from the connecting channel toward the outlet.

16. The secondary battery cooling device according to claim 13, characterized in that, A flow rate detection unit is formed inside the second channel to additionally reduce the flow rate of the cooling fluid passing through the second channel.

17. The secondary battery cooling device according to claim 13, characterized in that, A heat exchange liner is installed inside the second channel, the heat exchange liner is in contact with the cooling fluid, and the contact area between the heat exchange liner and the cooling fluid increases toward the outlet.

18. The secondary battery cooling device according to claim 17, characterized in that, The heat exchange liner includes: A guide channel, contacting the inner surface of the second channel, and configured to allow the cooling fluid to pass through; and Multiple heat transfer fins are fixed to the inner side of the guide channel and collect the cold air of the cooling fluid and transfer the cold air to the guide channel, wherein the number of the multiple heat transfer fins increases toward the outlet.

19. The secondary battery cooling device according to claim 11, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of secondary batteries constituting the secondary battery pack has the same heat transfer area relative to the cold air transmission section. and The cold air transmission unit includes: A first body includes a first connecting channel and provides a first channel, the first body having the inlet at one end and the cooling fluid being discharged through the first connecting channel at the other end; as well as The second body has the outlet at one end and a second connection channel corresponding to the first connection channel at the other end. The second body provides the second channel and forms a cold air transmission unit by combining with the first body.

20. The secondary battery cooling device according to claim 19, characterized in that, The thermal conductivity of the second body is relatively higher than that of the first body.

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