Secondary battery

Abstract

A secondary battery is disclosed. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a secondary battery including: an electrode assembly to which a current collector is coupled; a can accommodating the electrode assembly inside, and provided with a coupling hole opposite to the current collector on an upper surface; and a terminal inserted into the coupling hole and electrically connected to the current collector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a secondary battery and a method for manufacturing it. Background Technology

[0002] A secondary battery is an energy storage device that can be repeatedly charged and discharged through an electrochemical reaction. Secondary batteries serve as a power source in numerous fields. For example, they are widely used in mobile devices such as mobile phones, laptops, and tablets, and their applications are being explored in transportation sectors such as vehicles, aircraft, and ships. Furthermore, the demand for secondary batteries in Energy Storage Systems (ESS) is also increasing.

[0003] Secondary batteries can be categorized by their packaging form into pouch-shaped, prismatic, cylindrical, or button-shaped. Among these types, cylindrical secondary batteries have seen rapid growth in demand in recent years due to their standardized dimensions and ease of mass production.

[0004] In recent years, cylindrical secondary batteries with tabless structures have been produced, which eliminate the need for lead tabs connecting the positive and negative terminals. Compared to lead tab designs, tabless structures ensure a wider conductive area, thus effectively reducing resistance and heat generation. The demand for efficient and cost-effective battery designs and manufacturing methods is growing, and such designs will reduce thermal resistance and improve long-term battery capacity. Utility Model Content

[0005] (a) Technical problems to be solved

[0006] One object of this disclosure is to provide a secondary battery with reduced thermal resistance and improved capacity.

[0007] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a secondary battery with improved terminal shape is provided.

[0008] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a secondary battery that is easily integrated into a busbar is provided.

[0009] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a secondary battery is provided that includes a current collector that can simplify the shape.

[0010] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a secondary battery that improves ease of manufacture is provided.

[0011] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a secondary battery is provided that enables the miniaturization of battery modules or battery packs.

[0012] Some embodiments of this disclosure can be widely applied to green technology fields such as electric vehicles, battery charging stations, and other battery-powered solar and wind power generation. Furthermore, at least some embodiments of this disclosure can be used in eco-friendly electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, etc., to prevent climate change by suppressing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0013] (II) Technical Solution

[0014] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a secondary battery may be provided, comprising: an electrode assembly, a current collector connected to the electrode assembly; a can housing the electrode assembly and having a connection hole on its upper surface opposite to the current collector; and a terminal inserted into the connection hole and electrically connected to the current collector.

[0015] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the secondary battery may further include an insulator disposed between the terminal and the can.

[0016] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the terminal may include an outer portion that supports the outer side of the can.

[0017] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the terminal may include an insertion portion that is inserted into the coupling hole and supported in the current collector.

[0018] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the insertion portion may be deformed under pressure, and the terminal may be coupled to the can.

[0019] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the insertion portion may include an opening that opens in a direction opposite to the direction in which the insertion portion is inserted into the connecting hole.

[0020] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the upper side of the insertion portion may be open and the lower side may be closed by a first support portion, and the first support portion may be electrically connected to the current collector.

[0021] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the current collector and the first support portion may be welded.

[0022] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the current collector and the first support portion can be bonded together with a conductive adhesive.

[0023] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the insertion portion may include a second support portion that supports the inner side of the can.

[0024] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the can may be provided with a recess, and the outer portion is disposed in the recess.

[0025] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the height of the upper surface of the outer side of the recess may be the same as or lower than the height of the outer periphery of the upper surface of the can.

[0026] (III) Beneficial Effects

[0027] Embodiments of this disclosure may provide a secondary battery.

[0028] In addition, some embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery with improved terminal shape.

[0029] In addition, some embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery that is easy to integrate into a busbar.

[0030] In addition, some embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery that simplifies the shape of the current collector.

[0031] In addition, some embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery that improves ease of manufacture.

[0032] In addition, some embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery that enables the miniaturization of battery modules or battery packs.

[0033] However, the technical effects obtainable through the embodiments of this disclosure are not necessarily limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains can clearly understand other unmentioned technical effects through the detailed description and other recounts in the specification. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will be more clearly understood through the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of an electrode assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 3 It is shown schematically. Figure 2 The diagram shows the electrode assembly wound around the central axis.

[0038] Figure 4 It is shown as follows Figure 3 A diagram showing the flat electrode tabs at the upper and lower ends of a wound electrode assembly.

[0039] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0041] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 5 The diagram shows the assembly process of a secondary battery.

[0042] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 The diagram shows the assembly process of a secondary battery.

[0044] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0045] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a secondary battery is provided. Furthermore, a method for manufacturing the aforementioned secondary battery is also provided.

[0046] Unless otherwise defined in this specification, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “upper surface,” “lower surface,” “bottom surface,” etc., used herein refer to the relative positional relationship between components and do not imply an absolute vertical direction.

[0047] Unless otherwise defined, when a part, such as a layer, membrane, film, region, or plate, is located “on” or “above” another part, this includes not only cases where the part is “directly located” on the other part, but also cases where there are other parts between them.

[0048] Unless otherwise defined below, the X, Y, and Z directions described herein are provided for the purpose of understanding this disclosure only, and their specific definitions may vary depending on the location of the reference frame.

[0049] Specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below. However, it should be noted that these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only, and this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated. It should be understood that, in addition to the embodiments described, the components shown in the figures in various embodiments of this disclosure can be arranged and designed in many different configurations. Therefore, the following description of the illustrated embodiments is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed embodiments, but only represents some exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, the shape and size of the illustrated elements may be exaggerated for clarity. Furthermore, the features, characteristics, or structures may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Numerous specific details are provided below for a comprehensive understanding of the embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that various embodiments may be practiced with one or more specific details omitted, or other methods, components, materials, etc., may be employed. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations have not been shown or described in detail to avoid obscurity and improve clarity.

[0050] Unless the context explicitly requires it, the singular expression also encompasses the plural meaning. Terms such as “including,” “comprising,” and “configured as” are used only to indicate the presence of features, quantities, steps, operations, elements, parts, or combinations thereof, and do not exclude the possibility of other combinations or the addition of one or more features, quantities, operations, elements, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0051] The examples, systems, and methods described herein provide one or more secondary batteries conforming to embodiments of this disclosure. Some embodiments relate to secondary batteries with tabless electrodes and methods of manufacturing the same.

[0052] Furthermore, the embodiments described above can ensure the safety and lifespan of the secondary battery, and can achieve the effects of reducing thermal resistance and increasing capacity.

[0053] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] For ease of explanation, the following will be based on Figure 1 The direction of rotation around the central axis C1 is called the circumferential direction P1. The direction towards the inner and outer sides of the central axis C1 on the plane perpendicular to the central axis C1 is called the radial direction P2. The vertical direction along the central axis C1 is called the vertical direction.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 In some embodiments, the secondary battery 100 may include a canister 110. The canister 110 may be provided with a housing for the electrode assembly 120 (see...). Figure 2 The internal space of the can 110. In some embodiments, the can 110 is provided with an upper surface 111 and a side surface 112, and may be configured as a cylinder with an opening at the bottom. Although not shown, the opening at the bottom of the can 110 may be configured to be appropriately closed by a cover or the like.

[0056] In some embodiments, the upper surface 111 of the can 110 may be provided with a terminal 130. As described in detail below, the upper surface of the can 110 is provided with a mating hole 113, and the terminal 130 can be inserted into the mating hole 113 and mated to the can 110. For example, the terminal 130 may function as a positive terminal. In the above case, the remaining area of ​​the can 110 other than the terminal 130 may function as another electrode terminal corresponding to the terminal 130. For example, the remaining area of ​​the upper surface 111 of the can 110 other than the terminal 130 may function as a negative terminal. In some embodiments, a gasket for electrical insulation and mechanical sealing may be provided between the terminal 130 and the can 110.

[0057] In some embodiments, the can 110 may be configured as a cylinder with a predetermined diameter D1 and height H1. In other words, the secondary battery 100 may be configured as a cylinder with a predetermined diameter D1 and height H1. For example, the secondary battery 100 may have a diameter of 46 mm and a height of 80 mm. In some embodiments, a secondary battery 100 having this form factor may be referred to as a "4680 battery". In some embodiments, the secondary battery 100 may have a diameter of 46 mm and a height of 80 mm, or a diameter of 46 mm and a height of 95 mm, or a diameter of 46 mm and a height of 110 mm. In some embodiments, a secondary battery 100 having this size may be referred to as a "46xx battery". The "xx" in "46xx" may indicate the height of the corresponding form factor. In yet another example, the secondary battery 100 may have a diameter of 48 mm and a height of 75 mm, or a diameter of 48 mm and a height of 80 mm, or a diameter of 48 mm and a height of 110 mm. Depending on the circumstances, a battery having this form factor may be referred to as a "48xx battery". The “xx” in “48xx” can indicate the height of the corresponding size specification. However, in this disclosure, the diameter D1 and height H1 of the secondary battery 100 can be changed in various ways and are not necessarily limited to the above example.

[0058] Although this description shows a cylindrical secondary battery 100, the dimensions of the secondary battery 100 according to embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the cylindrical shape shown. The secondary battery 100 according to embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented or applied in various forms, such as button-shaped, prismatic, pouch-shaped, and other non-general shapes, within the scope of the technical ideas described below.

[0059] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of an electrode assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Reference Figure 2In some embodiments, the secondary battery 100 may include an electrode assembly 120. The electrode assembly 120 may be housed inside the can 110 as described above. In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 120 may be configured as a cylindrical roll wound around a central axis C1. Such a roll-shaped electrode assembly 120 may be referred to in the art as a jelly roll, etc.

[0061] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 120 may have mating surfaces 121e and 122e provided at one or both ends along the central axis C1. That is, the electrode assembly 120 may have mating surfaces 121e and 122e provided at its upper and / or lower ends, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, mating surfaces 121e and 122e are respectively provided at the upper and lower ends of the electrode assembly 120. For ease of explanation, the mating surface 121e provided at the upper end of the electrode assembly 120 will be referred to as the first mating surface 121e, and the mating surface 122e provided at the lower end of the electrode assembly 120 will be referred to as the second mating surface 122e.

[0062] In some embodiments, each mating surface 121e, 122e may be formed by bending a plurality of electrode tabs 121c, 122c toward the central axis C1. That is, the first mating surface 121e may be formed at the upper end of the electrode assembly 120 by bending a plurality of first electrode tabs 121c toward the central axis C1, and the second mating surface 122e may be formed at the lower end of the electrode assembly 120 by bending a plurality of second electrode tabs 122c toward the central axis C1 (see reference). Figure 3 In other words, the first mating surface 121e can be configured as a schematic surface having a plurality of curved first electrode tabs 121c, and the second mating surface 122e can be configured as a schematic surface having a plurality of curved second electrode tabs 122c.

[0063] In the secondary battery 100 described above, a plurality of electrode tabs 121c, 122c are provided with predetermined mating surfaces 121e, 122e, and can be electrically connected to electrode terminals through these mating surfaces 121e, 122e. In some exemplary embodiments, the secondary battery 100 may omit the lead tabs, and each mating surface 121e, 122e may replace the function of the lead tabs. In some embodiments, such a secondary battery 100 may be referred to as a tabless battery, etc.

[0064] In some embodiments, each mating surface 121e, 122e as described above can be mated to a current collector or a cover plate. For example, the first mating surface 121e can be welded to the current collector at the upper end of the electrode assembly 120, and the second mating surface 122e can be welded to another current collector at the lower end of the electrode assembly 120. In another example, the first mating surface 121e can be welded to the current collector at the upper end of the electrode assembly 120, and the second mating surface 122e can be welded to a cover plate at the lower end of the electrode assembly 120. Therefore, each mating surface 121e, 122e can be electrically connected to a current collector or a cover plate.

[0065] Figure 3 It is shown schematically. Figure 2 The diagram shows the electrode assembly wound around the central axis.

[0066] Reference Figure 3 In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 120 may be provided with a first electrode 121 and a second electrode 122 disposed across a diaphragm 123. The first electrode 121 and / or the second electrode 122 may be electrodes manufactured by the electrode manufacturing apparatus 200. The diaphragm 123 and the first electrode 121 and the second electrode 122 may be wound around a central axis C1. The first electrode 121 may function as a positive or negative electrode, and the second electrode 122 may function as a corresponding negative or positive electrode. In this description, it is assumed that the first electrode 121 is a positive electrode and the second electrode 122 is a negative electrode.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first electrode 121 and the second electrode 122 may each include: metal foils 121a and 122a wound around a central axis C1; active materials 121b and 122b disposed on at least one side of the metal foils 121a and 122a; and a plurality of electrode tabs 121c and 122c disposed on one end region of the metal foils 121a and 122a along the central axis C1 and bent toward the central axis C1. For ease of explanation, the metal foil 121a, active material 121b, and electrode tabs 121c corresponding to the first electrode 121 will be referred to as the first metal foil 121a, the first active material 121b, and the first electrode tabs 121c, respectively, and the metal foil 122a, active material 122b, and electrode tabs 122c corresponding to the second electrode 122 will be referred to as the second metal foil 122a, the second active material 122b, and the second electrode tabs 122c, respectively.

[0068] In some embodiments, the first electrode 121 may include a first metal foil 121a. For example, the first metal foil 121a may contain aluminum, stainless steel, nickel, titanium, and alloys thereof. Additionally, the first electrode 121 may include a first active material 121b disposed on at least one side of the first metal foil 121a. In some embodiments, the first active material 121b may contain a compound capable of reversibly intercalating and deintercalating lithium ions. For example, the first active material 121b may contain a lithium-nickel metal oxide, which, depending on the circumstances, may further contain cobalt, manganese, aluminum, etc.

[0069] In some embodiments, the second electrode 122 may include a second metal foil 122a. For example, the second metal foil 122a may contain copper, stainless steel, nickel, titanium, and alloys thereof. Additionally, the second electrode 122 may include a second active material 122b disposed on at least one side of the second metal foil 122a. In some embodiments, the second active material 122b may contain a compound capable of reversibly inserting and deintercalating lithium ions. For example, the second active material 122b may contain carbon-based materials such as crystalline carbon, amorphous carbon, carbon composites, and carbon fibers. Alternatively, the second active material 122b may contain lithium metal, lithium alloys, silicon-containing materials, tin-containing materials, etc.

[0070] A diaphragm 123 may be disposed between the first electrode 121 and the second electrode 122. The diaphragm 123 may be configured to restrict an electrical short circuit between the first electrode 121 and the second electrode 122 and allow ion flow. In some embodiments, the diaphragm 123 may comprise a porous polymer membrane, a porous nonwoven fabric, etc. For example, the porous polymer membrane may comprise polyolefin-based polymers such as ethylene polymers, propylene polymers, ethylene / butene copolymers, ethylene / hexene copolymers, ethylene / methacrylate copolymers, etc. Additionally, the porous nonwoven fabric may comprise high-melting-point glass fibers, polyethylene terephthalate fibers, etc.

[0071] In some embodiments, the first electrode 121 may be provided with a first electrode tab 121c. In the illustrated embodiment, the first electrode tab 121c is provided at the upper end of the first electrode 121. As described above, multiple first electrode tabs 121c may be provided, and the multiple first electrode tabs 121c may be arranged along the winding direction of the first electrode 121. In addition, the first electrode tab 121c may be provided in the upper region of the first metal foil 121a that is not coated with the first active material 121b. In other words, the first electrode 121 may be provided with a first uncoated portion 121d that is not coated with the first active material 121b, and the first electrode tab 121c may be provided in this first uncoated portion 121d.

[0072] In some embodiments, the second electrode 122 may be provided with a second electrode tab 122c. In the illustrated embodiment, the second electrode tab 122c is provided at the lower end of the second electrode 122. The second electrode tab 122c may be provided in the second uncoated portion 122d (excluding the portion coated with the second active material 122b), and multiple tabs may be provided.

[0073] In some embodiments, a diaphragm 123 may be disposed between the first electrode 121 and the second electrode 122 as described above. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the diaphragm 123 may be disposed between the upper ends of the first electrode tab 121c and the second electrode 122. This upper portion of the diaphragm 123 serves to electrically insulate the first electrode tab 121c and the second electrode 122. Similarly, the lower portion of the diaphragm 123 may be disposed between the lower end of the first electrode 121 and the second electrode tab 122c. This lower portion of the diaphragm 123 serves to electrically insulate the first electrode 121 and the second electrode tab 122c.

[0074] Figure 4 It is shown as follows Figure 3 A diagram showing the flat electrode tabs at the upper and lower ends of a wound electrode assembly.

[0075] Reference Figure 4 In the above Figure 3 In the wound electrode assembly 120, the first electrode tab 121c and the second electrode tab 122c are bent toward the central axis C1, and can undergo a flattening process by pressing the bent first electrode tab 121c and the second electrode tab 122c together vertically. In the flattening process, the first electrode tab 121c and the second electrode tab 122c can be pressurized by F1 respectively through predetermined pressurizing devices M1 and M2, thereby allowing the first electrode tab 121c and the second electrode tab 122c to be configured as described above. Figure 2The first mating surface 121e and the second mating surface 122e are then appropriately joined on the first mating surface 121e and the second mating surface 122e, respectively. For example, a current collector may be provided on the first mating surface 121e, and the current collector may be welded to the first mating surface 121e. In some embodiments, the welding may be performed, for example, by laser welding.

[0076] The following describes a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] Reference Figure 5 In some embodiments, a secondary battery 100 may be provided, the secondary battery 100 including: an electrode assembly 120, a current collector 124 connected to the electrode assembly 120; a can 110, which houses the electrode assembly 120 and has a connection hole 113 on its upper surface opposite to the current collector 124; and a terminal 130, which is inserted into the connection hole 113 and electrically connected to the current collector 124.

[0079] In some embodiments, the upper surface 111 of the can 110 is provided with a connecting hole 113, and the terminal 130 can be inserted into the connecting hole 113. The terminal 130 can be deformed by pressure and connected to the can 110. More specifically, the insertion portion 132 can be deformed by pressure to connect the terminal 130 to the can 110. In addition, the electrode assembly 120 can be inserted into the interior of the can 110, and the current collector 124 connected to the electrode assembly 120 can be electrically connected to the terminal 130.

[0080] In some embodiments, the secondary battery 100 may further include an insulator 140 disposed between the terminal 130 and the canister 110. The insulator 140 can block the electrical connection between the terminal 130 and the canister 110. The shape of the insulator 140 is not particularly limited, and the insulator 140 may have a structure corresponding to the shape of the terminal 130. For example, the insulator 140 may include an upper portion located between the outer portion 131 and the canister 110, a middle portion located between the second connecting portion 136 and the canister 110, and a lower portion located between the second support portion 135 and the canister 110.

[0081] In some embodiments, terminal 130 may include an outer portion 131 supported on the outer side of can 110. The width of the outer portion 131 is greater than the width (e.g., diameter) of the mating hole 113, so it is not inserted into the mating hole 113, but can be supported on the outer side of can 110. The depth to which terminal 130 is inserted into mating hole 113 can be limited by the outer portion 131.

[0082] In some embodiments, the terminal 130 may include an insertion portion 132 that inserts into the mating hole 113 and is supported on the current collector 124. As described in detail below, the insertion portion 132 may include a first support portion 133, a first connecting portion 134, a second support portion 135, a second connecting portion 136, etc. Before the electrode assembly 120 is housed inside the can 110, the insertion portion 132 may be configured to insert into the mating hole 113 and protrude downward at its lower portion. Furthermore, the insertion portion 132 may be pressurized and deformed to include a second support portion 135, etc., thereby allowing the terminal 130 to engage with the can 110.

[0083] In some embodiments, since the insertion portion 132 of the terminal 130 has an insertion engagement hole 113 and protrudes downward, there is an advantage that the current collector 124 can be configured as a flat plate. That is, even if the current collector 124 is not provided with a flexible or protruding structure for electrical connection with the terminal, it can be easily electrically connected to the terminal 130. Therefore, the configuration of the current collector 124 can be simplified, thereby making manufacturing easier and reducing costs.

[0084] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0085] Reference Figure 6 In some embodiments, the insertion portion 132 can be pressurized and deformed to engage the terminal 130 with the canister 110. The spacing h between the inner surface of the canister 110 and the current collector 124 can be adjusted according to the amount of pressure applied to the insertion portion 132. By pressurizing the insertion portion 132, the spacing h between the inner surface of the canister 110 and the current collector 124 can be minimized, thereby increasing the energy density of the secondary battery 100.

[0086] In some embodiments, the insertion portion 132 may include an opening 132a that opens in the opposite direction to the direction in which the insertion portion 132 is inserted into the mating hole 113. That is, the opening 132a may be configured to open upwards. The cross-section of the insertion portion 132 including the opening 132a may be configured in a generally U-shape. Since the insertion portion 132 includes the opening 132a and has an empty space inside, the weight of the terminal 130 can be reduced. The outer portion 131 and the insertion portion 132 may be configured as a whole to a predetermined thickness. Therefore, by applying pressure to the lower part of the insertion portion 132, the shapes of the first support portion 133, the first connecting portion 134, the second support portion 135, the second connecting portion 136, etc., can be easily configured.

[0087] In some embodiments, since the insertion portion 132 includes an opening 132a, the first support portion 133 has a thinner thickness, and welding of the first support portion 133 and the current collector 124 can be performed through the opening 132a, thereby improving ease of connection.

[0088] In some embodiments, the upper side of the insertion portion 132 may be open and the lower side may be closed by the first support portion 133, and the first support portion 133 may be electrically connected to the current collector 124. By configuring the insertion portion 132 to be open upward and performing the engagement between the terminal 130 and the external busbar (not shown) through the opening 132a, the connection between the secondary battery 100 of this disclosure and the busbar can be facilitated. For example, applying the structure of inserting into the opening 132 and engaging it to the busbar can improve the ease of connection.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first support portion 133 may be electrically connected to the current collector 124. The electrode assembly 120 is housed inside the tank 110, and the current collector 124 may be electrically connected to the first support portion 133 (see reference). Figure 7 ).

[0090] In some embodiments, the current collector 124 and the first support portion 133 can be welded. In some embodiments, the current collector 124 and the first support portion 133 can be bonded together with a conductive adhesive. More specifically, the first support portion 133 of the insertion portion 132 is supported on the current collector 124, and the first support portion 133 can be welded to the current collector 124 or bonded together with a conductive adhesive. As described above, since the insertion portion 132 includes an opening 132a, the first support portion 133 has a thinner thickness, and since the welding portion is exposed through the opening 132a, the ease of welding the first support portion 133 and the current collector 124 can be improved.

[0091] In some embodiments, the insertion portion 132 may include a second support portion 135 supported on the inner side of the can 110. The second support portion 135 can be configured by applying pressure to the lower part of the insertion portion 132 of the insertion engagement hole 113. The outer side portion 131 is supported on the outer side of the upper surface of the can 110, the second support portion 135 is supported on the inner side, and the terminal 130 can be fixed relative to the can 110.

[0092] In some embodiments, the insertion portion 132 may include a first connecting portion 134 connecting the first support portion 133 and the second support portion 135, and a second connecting portion 136 connecting the second support portion 135 and the outer portion 131. In some embodiments, the height of the first connecting portion 134 may be adjusted during pressurization of the lower portion of the insertion portion 132. By adjusting the height of the first connecting portion 134, the gap h between the inner side of the upper surface of the can 110 and the current collector 124 may be adjusted. By pressurizing the lower portion of the insertion portion 132 and minimizing the gap h between the can 110 and the current collector 124, the energy density of the secondary battery 100 may be increased.

[0093] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 5 The diagram shows the assembly process of a secondary battery.

[0094] Reference Figure 7 In some embodiments, when the terminal 130 is inserted into the mating hole 113, the outer portion 131 is supported on the upper surface 111 of the can 110, and the depth of insertion of the insertion portion 132 into the mating hole 113 can be limited. Firstly, the insertion portion 132 may have a shape corresponding to the mating hole 113 to allow insertion into it. For example, the mating hole 113 may be circular, while the insertion portion 132 may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0095] In some embodiments, with the terminal 130 inserted into the coupling hole 113, pressure can be applied to the lower part of the insertion portion 132 to form a second support portion 135, etc. More specifically, pressure can be applied upwards to the lower part of the insertion portion 132 to form the second support portion 135, etc. With the second support portion 135 provided, the terminal 130 can be fixed to the canister 110. Furthermore, the amount of pressure applied to the lower part of the insertion portion 132 can adjust the gap h between the canister 110 and the current collector 124, and the energy density of the secondary battery 100 can be increased by minimizing this gap h.

[0096] In some embodiments, the insulator 140 is first inserted into the mating hole 113 together with the terminal 130, and then deformed together when the lower part of the insertion portion 132 is pressurized and deformed, and can block the electrical connection between the can 110 and the terminal 130.

[0097] In some embodiments, after pressurizing the lower portion of the insertion portion 132 to set the second support portion 135, the electrode assembly 120 can be inserted into the interior of the canister 110. The current collector 124 is supported by the first support portion 133, and the current collector 124 and the first support portion 133 can be electrically connected by welding or conductive adhesive. In particular, since the insertion portion 132 includes an opening 132, the first support portion 133 has a thinner thickness, and since the welding area between the first support portion 133 and the current collector 124 is exposed through the opening 132a, welding can be performed more easily.

[0098] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of a secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] Reference Figure 8 In some embodiments, the can 110 may be provided with a recess 114, and the outer portion 131 is disposed in the recess 114. That is, the recess 114 may be provided around the connecting hole 113 in a form that is recessed in the upper surface 111 of the can 110. The height of the portion in the upper surface 111 of the can 110 where the recess 114 is provided may be lower than the height of the remaining peripheral portion.

[0100] In some embodiments, the height of the upper surface of the outer portion 131 disposed on the recess 114 may be the same as or lower than the height of the outer periphery of the outer side of the can 110. That is, with the outer portion 131 disposed on the recess 114, the upper surface of the outer portion 131 may not protrude upwards compared to the upper surface 111 of the can 110. Therefore, the terminal 130 may not protrude from the upper surface 111 of the can 110, and the overall height of the secondary battery may be minimized.

[0101] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 The diagram shows the assembly process of a secondary battery.

[0102] For content identical to the above, explanations will be minimized. (See reference...) Figure 9 In some embodiments, the terminal 130 is inserted into the mating hole 113 of the can 110, and the outer portion 131 is supported on the upper surface 111 of the can 110. In this case, the outer portion 131 is positioned within the recess 114 provided on the can 110, and compared to the upper surface 111 of the can 120, the outer portion 131 may not protrude upwards. Therefore, the overall height of the secondary battery can be minimized. Thus, miniaturization of the battery module / battery pack including the secondary battery 100 according to this disclosure can be achieved.

[0103] In some embodiments, with the terminal 130 inserted into the coupling hole 113, pressure can be applied to the lower part of the insertion portion 132 to form a second support portion 135, etc. More specifically, pressure can be applied upwards to the lower part of the insertion portion 132 to form the second support portion 135, etc. The second support portion 135 is provided, and the terminal is fixed relative to the can 110. In addition, by adjusting the amount of pressure applied to the lower part of the insertion portion 132, the gap h between the can 110 and the current collector 124 can be adjusted, and the energy density of the secondary battery 100 can be increased.

[0104] In some embodiments, after pressurizing the lower part of the insertion portion 132 to set the second support portion 135, the electrode assembly 120 can be inserted into the interior of the tank 110. The current collector 124 is supported by the first support portion 133, and the current collector 124 and the first support portion 133 can be electrically connected by welding or conductive adhesive.

[0105] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] Reference Figure 10In some embodiments, a method for manufacturing a secondary battery 100 may be provided, the method comprising: inserting a terminal 130 into a mating hole 113; pressurizing the terminal 130 to mat the terminal 130 into a can 110; inserting an electrode assembly 120 into the interior of the can 110; and electrically connecting the terminal 130 to a current collector 124.

[0107] In some embodiments, the step of inserting the terminal 130 into the mating hole 113 occurs before the insertion portion 132 is deformed by pressure. The insertion portion 132 has a shape corresponding to the mating hole 113 and can be inserted into the mating hole 113. In some embodiments, the insulator 140 can be inserted into the mating hole 113 together with the terminal 130. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the can 110 is provided with a recess 114, and the outer side portion 131 of the terminal 130 can be disposed in the recess 114.

[0108] In some embodiments, in the step of pressurizing the terminal 130 and attaching the terminal 130 to the can 110, the terminal 130 may be pressurized and deformed and attached to the can 110.

[0109] In some embodiments, the terminal 130 includes an insertion portion 132 that inserts into the mating hole 113, and the insertion portion 132 may be configured to be open on the upper side and closed on the lower side by a first support portion 133. Additionally, in the step of pressurizing the terminal 130 to attach it to the can 110, the insertion portion 132 is pressurized, and a second support portion 135 may be provided supporting the inner side of the can 110. The outer portion 131 and the second support portion 135 may be supported on the outer and inner sides of the upper surface 111, respectively, and the terminal 130 may be attached to the can 110.

[0110] In some embodiments, during the step of inserting the electrode assembly 120 into the interior of the tank 110, the current collector 124 disposed on the electrode assembly 120 can contact the terminal 130. Since the terminal 130 is inserted into the mating hole 113 and the insertion portion 132 has a downward protruding shape, the current collector 124 can easily contact the terminal even if it is disposed in a flat plate shape, thereby simplifying the shape of the current collector 124.

[0111] In the step of electrically connecting the terminal 130 and the current collector 124, the terminal 130 and the current collector 124 may be bonded by soldering or conductive adhesive. The insertion portion 132 of the terminal 130 may include an opening 132a, and soldering can be performed more easily through the opening 132a.

[0112] As explained above, the embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery and a manufacturing method thereof.

[0113] In addition, some embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery with improved terminal shape and a method for manufacturing it.

[0114] In addition, some embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery and a manufacturing method that can simplify the shape of the current collector.

[0115] In addition, some embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery that is easily integrated into a busbar and a method for manufacturing it.

[0116] In addition, some embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery and a manufacturing method that improves ease of manufacture.

[0117] In addition, some embodiments of this disclosure can provide a secondary battery and a manufacturing method that can achieve miniaturization of battery modules or battery packs.

[0118] The technical effects achievable through the embodiments of this disclosure are not necessarily limited to those described above. Other technical effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through other descriptions in the specification, such as specific embodiments.

[0119] The above description is merely an example of applying the principles of this disclosure, and other configurations may be included without departing from the scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A secondary battery, characterized in that, include: Electrode assembly, with current collector coupled to the electrode assembly; The container houses the electrode assembly and has a connection hole on its upper surface opposite to the current collector. as well as The terminal is inserted into the connecting hole and electrically connected to the current collector.

2. The secondary battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, Further includes: An insulator is disposed between the terminal and the can.

3. The secondary battery according to claim 1, characterized in that, The terminal includes an outer portion that is supported on the outer side of the can.

4. The secondary battery according to claim 3, characterized in that, The terminal includes an insertion portion that is inserted into the connecting hole and supported in the current collector.

5. The secondary battery according to claim 4, characterized in that, The insertion portion is deformed under pressure, and the terminal is attached to the can.

6. The secondary battery according to claim 4, characterized in that, The insertion part includes an opening that opens in a direction opposite to the direction in which the insertion part is inserted into the connecting hole.

7. The secondary battery according to claim 6, characterized in that, The upper side of the insertion part is open and the lower side is closed by the first support part, and the first support part is electrically connected to the current collector.

8. The secondary battery according to claim 7, characterized in that, The current collector and the first support are welded together.

9. The secondary battery according to claim 7, characterized in that, The current collector and the first support are bonded together with a conductive adhesive.

10. The secondary battery according to claim 4, characterized in that, The insertion part includes a second support part, which is supported on the inner side of the can.

11. The secondary battery according to claim 3, characterized in that, The can is provided with a recessed portion, and the outer portion is placed in the recessed portion.

12. The secondary battery according to claim 11, characterized in that, The height of the upper surface of the outer side of the recess is the same as or lower than the height of the outer periphery of the upper surface of the can.

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