Battery pack

Abstract

Battery pack, including: a battery cell stack including a plurality of battery cells; a carrier having a base part and side surface parts, and receiving the battery cell stack in an interior space formed by the base part and the side surface parts; and at least one fixing element for fixing the battery cell stack.

Description

[TECHNICAL FIELD]Cross-reference to related application(s)

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0036069, filed on March 20, 2023, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0037970, filed on March 19, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a battery pack, and more particularly to a battery pack for transporting a plurality of battery cells. [STATE OF THE ART]

[0003] In modern society, where portable devices such as mobile phones, notebooks, camcorders, and digital cameras are used daily, the development of technologies in the above-described mobile device fields has been rapidly advancing. Furthermore, rechargeable / dischargeable secondary batteries are used as a power source for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs), and the like to solve air pollution and similar problems caused by existing gasoline-powered fossil fuel vehicles. Therefore, the demand for secondary battery development is increasing.

[0004] Secondary batteries currently available on the market include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium secondary batteries. Among them, the lithium secondary battery takes center stage because of its advantages, such as its lack of memory effect compared to nickel-based secondary batteries, allowing it to be freely charged and discharged. It also features a very low self-discharge rate and high energy density.

[0005] Such lithium secondary batteries primarily comprise a lithium-based oxide and a carbon material as the cathode active material and the anode active material, respectively. The lithium secondary battery includes an electrode assembly in which a cathode plate and an anode plate, each coated with the cathode active material and the anode active material, are arranged with a separator interposed therebetween, and a battery case that seals and houses the electrode assembly along with an electrolyte solution.

[0006] Generally, based on the shape of the outer material, the lithium secondary battery can be divided into a can-type secondary battery in which the electrode assembly is installed in a metal can, and a pouch-type battery in which the electrode assembly is installed in a pouch made of an aluminum laminate sheet.

[0007] A secondary battery for small devices uses two to three battery cells, while a secondary battery for medium and large devices such as automobiles uses a battery module in which a large number of battery cells are electrically connected. In such a battery module, a large number of battery cells are connected in series or parallel to form a cell group, thus improving capacity and performance. Furthermore, one or more battery modules can be assembled into a battery pack along with various control and protection systems such as a BDU (Battery Separator Unit), a BMS (Battery Management System), and a cooling system.

[0008] When configuring a battery pack, it is common practice to first configure a battery module and then add various control and protection systems such as a BDU (Battery Separation Unit), BMS (Battery Management System), and a cooling system to such a battery module to form a battery pack. A conventional battery pack is manufactured by arranging battery modules in a housing structure such as a pack carrier, and such a battery pack is mounted in vehicles and the like. Therefore, to manufacture a battery pack, a battery module was usually transported in which battery cells were housed in a module frame.

[0009] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a conventional method for transporting a battery module.

[0010] With reference to Fig. 1, in the manufacture of a battery module 10 in which a large number of battery cells are housed in a module frame, a carrier 30 and an outer casing 20 for transporting the battery module 10 have been conventionally used. To protect the battery module 10, the battery module 10 was placed in the carrier 30 and transported while being located in the outer casing 20. However, in this conventional method, an assembly gap remains between the carrier 30 and the outer casing 20, and thus there is a high probability that the battery module 10 will be shaken during a transport process. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a structure that can prevent slippage during a transport process. [DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION][Technical Problem]

[0011] The present disclosure is designed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery pack that can prevent the battery cell stack from slipping during transportation and can fix and protect the battery cell stack.

[0012] However, the technical problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned problems and can be expanded in various ways within the scope of the technical idea included in the present disclosure. [Technical solution]

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery pack is provided, comprising: a battery cell stack containing a plurality of battery cells; a carrier having a bottom part and side surface parts and accommodating the battery cell stack in an interior space formed by the bottom part and the side surface parts; and at least one fixing element for fixing the battery cell stack.

[0014] The battery pack may further comprise at least one pressure plate arranged perpendicular to a surface of the bottom part in the interior space.

[0015] The fixing element may be a cam clamp located between the pressure plate and the side surface part.

[0016] The cam clamp may include a camshaft and a cam member connected to the camshaft, and the cam member may rotate asymmetrically about the camshaft.

[0017] The cam member may be circular or elliptical, and the camshaft may be connected to the cam member in a region between a center and a circumference of the cam member.

[0018] The fixing element may be a spring element located between the pressure plate and the side surface part.

[0019] The fixing element can be arranged so that an elastic force acts in the direction of the pressure plate.

[0020] The fixing member may be a bolt member penetrating a through hole formed in the side surface part.

[0021] A screw thread may be formed on an inner surface of the through hole, and the fixing member may press the pressure plate by screwing the fixing member.

[0022] A protective element may be located on a surface of the pressure plate facing the battery cell stack.

[0023] The fixing element may be a band element that surrounds at least part of the outer surfaces of the battery cell stack.

[0024] A protective element may be located between the fixing element and the battery cell stack.

[0025] The battery pack may further comprise a handling housing in which the battery cell stack and the carrier are housed together.

[0026] The fixing element is provided on the handling housing or the carrier and can press against the side surfaces of the battery cell stack. On each of the side surfaces facing each other between the side surfaces of the battery cell stack, the fixing element can be pressed in a direction in which the side surfaces face each other.

[0027] The fixing element can be a quick release.

[0028] The handling housing may include a plurality of columns extending along a height direction and a plurality of horizontal bars extending along a horizontal direction perpendicular to the columns, and the columns and the horizontal bars may form an outer shape of the handling housing.

[0029] The battery cells are pouch-type battery cells that are stacked along one direction within the battery cell stack. [Beneficial effects]

[0030] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery cell stack is continuously pressed into a carrier in which the battery cell stack is housed, whereby slippage during transportation can be prevented and the battery cell stack can be fixed and protected.

[0031] The effects obtainable by the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and additional effects not mentioned here will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the appended claims. [BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a conventional method for transporting a battery module. Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing a battery cell stack included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is a top view of the battery cell stack of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the battery cell stack of Fig. 2. Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing one of the battery cells used in the battery cell stack of Fig. 2 is included. Fig. 6 is a top view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 7 (a) and (b) are diagrams showing fixing elements used in the battery pack of Fig. 6 are included. Fig. 8 is a plan view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 is a plan view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10 is a plan view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the section line AA' of Fig. 10. Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 13 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged view of a fixing member attached to the battery pack of Fig. 12 is attached. Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS]

[0032] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that they can be easily implemented by those skilled in the art. The present disclosure may be modified in various ways and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0033] Portions irrelevant to the description are omitted in order to clearly describe the present disclosure, and like reference numerals indicate like elements throughout the description.

[0034] Furthermore, in the drawings, the size and thickness of individual elements are illustrated arbitrarily for simplicity, and the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to the elements illustrated in the drawings. In the drawings, the thicknesses of layers, regions, etc. are exaggerated for clarity. In the drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated for clarity.

[0035] It is further understood that when an element, such as a layer, film, region, or plate, is described as being "on" or "over" another element, it may actually be directly on top of the other element, or it may also have intervening elements. On the other hand, when an element is described as being "directly on" another element, it means that there are no other intervening elements. Furthermore, when a particular part is "over" or "on" a reference portion, it means that the particular part is above or below the reference portion, and in particular does not mean that the particular part is directed "over" or "on" in a direction opposite to gravity.

[0036] Furthermore, whenever a section is referred to as "containing" or "comprising" a particular component, it means that the section may further include other components without excluding the other components, unless otherwise stated.

[0037] Furthermore, throughout this specification, the term "planar" refers to a target section viewed from the top and the term "section-wise" refers to a section viewed from the side of a vertically cut cross-section.

[0038] Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing a battery cell stack included in a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is a top view of the battery cell stack of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the battery cell stack of Fig. 2. Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing one of the battery cells used in the battery cell stack of Fig. 2 is included.

[0039] With reference to Fig. 2 to 5, the battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a battery cell stack 120 containing a plurality of battery cells 110. The carrier in which the battery cell stack 120 is housed and the fixing member that fixes the battery cell stack will be described below.

[0040] The battery cells 110 according to the present embodiment may be various types of battery cells, for example, a pouch-type battery cell, a prismatic battery cell, or a cylindrical battery cell. As an example, the battery cell 110 according to the present embodiment may be a pouch-type battery cell, as shown in Fig. 2 to 5. A pouch-type battery cell will be described below, but the battery cell 110 according to the present embodiment is not limited thereto, and various types of battery cells can be applied.

[0041] The battery cells 110 according to the present embodiment may have a structure in which an electrode assembly including electrodes 111 projecting in one or both directions is housed in a pouch case 114. Such battery cells 110 may have a rectangular sheet shape. The battery cells 110 may be formed by accommodating an electrode assembly in a pouch case 114 made of a laminate sheet having a resin layer and a metal layer, and then adhering the outer peripheral part of the pouch case 114. For example, the battery cell 110 may have a structure in which two electrodes 111 face each other and project from one end 114a and the other end 114b of the cell main body 113. As another example, a structure in which all the electrodes 111 of the battery cells 110 project in one direction is also possible. One of the electrodes 111 is a cathode, the other an anode.

[0042] Specifically, the battery cell 110 may be manufactured by joining the two ends 114a and 114b of a pouch case 114 and a side part 114c that connects them in a state where an electrode assembly (not shown) is housed in a pouch case 114. In other words, the battery cell 110 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a total of three sealing parts 114s, the sealing parts having a structure sealed by a method such as melting, and the remaining other side part may be composed of a folding part 115. That is, the battery cell 110 according to the present embodiment may be a pouch-type secondary battery in which the electrode assembly is housed within the pouch case 114 and the outer periphery of the pouch case 114 is sealed to form a sealing part 114s. Fig. 5, only a state in which the sealing parts 114s are formed at both end parts 114a and 114b of the pouch case 114 is shown, and the sealing part is not shown on the side facing the folding part 115, but the sealing part on the side facing the folding part 115 may be in a state in which it is folded to one side for space utilization after completion of sealing.

[0043] The pouch housing 114 of the laminate sheet may include an inner resin layer for sealing, a metal layer to prevent material penetration, and an outer resin layer located on the outermost side. Depending on the electrode assembly inside the pouch housing 114, the inner resin layer may be located on the innermost side, the outer resin layer may be located on the outermost side, and the metal layer may be located between the inner resin layer and the outer resin layer.

[0044] The outer resin layer has excellent tensile strength and weather resistance relative to its thickness and may have electrical insulation properties to protect the electrode assembly from the outside. Such an outer resin layer may contain a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin or a nylon resin. The metal layer may prevent air, moisture, or the like from entering the pouch-type secondary battery. This metal layer may contain aluminum (Al). The inner resin layers may be sealed together by heat and / or pressure in the state in which the electrode assembly is embedded. This inner resin layer may contain cast polypropylene (CPP) or polypropylene (PP).

[0045] The pouch housing 114 is divided into two sections, and a concave housing part into which the electrode assembly can be inserted can be formed in at least one of the two sections. Along the outer periphery of this housing part, the inner resin layers of the two sections of the pouch housing 114 can be bonded together to provide a sealing part 114s. In this way, the pouch housing is sealed, so that the battery cell 110, which is a pouch-type secondary battery, can be manufactured.

[0046] Within the battery cell stack 120, the battery cells 110 can be provided in multiple configurations. For example, the plurality of battery cells 110 can be stacked along one direction so that they are electrically connected to each other, thereby forming a battery cell stack 120. For example, the plurality of battery cells 110 can be stacked in an upright state along a direction parallel to the X-axis. At this time, the electrodes 111 can protrude in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked. In the battery cell 110, one electrode 111 can protrude in the Y-axis direction, and the other electrode 111 can protrude in the -Y-axis direction. When the electrodes 111 of battery cells protrude in only one direction, the electrodes 111 can protrude in the Y-axis direction or in the -Y-axis direction.

[0047] Meanwhile, the battery cell stack 120 according to the present embodiment may include bus bar frames 130 covering one surface of the battery cell stack 120 in the direction in which the electrode 111 protrudes and the opposite surface. The bus bar frame 130 may include an electrically insulating material, and a bus bar 131 or a terminal bus bar 132, described below, may come into contact with portions of the battery cell 110 other than the electrode 111, thereby preventing short circuits from occurring.

[0048] A busbar 131, a terminal busbar 132, and the like may be mounted on each of the busbar frames 130. Specifically, the busbar 131 and the terminal busbar 132 may be mounted on the opposite side of the surface facing the battery cells 110 of the busbar frame 130. The busbar 131 may be electrically connected to the electrode 111 of the battery cell 110. For example, the busbar 131 and the electrode 111 may be connected by welding. A slot is formed in the busbar frame 130, and the electrode 111 may pass through this slot and be connected to the busbar 131. The battery cells 110 may be electrically connected in series or parallel via the busbar 131.

[0049] The terminal bus bar 132 may be electrically connected to the electrode 111, and a portion thereof may be exposed to the outside. A portion of the exposed terminal bus bar 132 may form a high-voltage (HV) connection with other battery cell stacks or electrical components. The HV connection here is a connection that serves as a power source for supplying energy requiring high voltage and represents a connection between battery cells.

[0050] Meanwhile, the battery cell stack 120 may further include a cushioning member 140. The cushioning member 140 may be disposed between the battery cells 110. Furthermore, the cushioning member 140 may be disposed on each of the two side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120 in a direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked. The battery cells 110 may cause a phenomenon in which the internal electrolyte decomposes and gas is generated, which may cause the battery cell 110 to swell during the process of repeated charging / discharging, i.e., a swelling phenomenon. In the swelling phenomenon of the battery cells 110, the battery cells 110 may expand in a direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked (a direction parallel to the X-axis).The cushion member 140 according to the present embodiment can absorb the swelling of the battery cells 110, thereby preventing the battery cell stack 120 from deforming beyond its deformation limit due to swelling of the battery cell 110.

[0051] Next, the battery pack 100a according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 described in detail.

[0052] Fig. 6 is a top view of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 7 (a) and (b) are diagrams showing fixing elements used in the battery pack of Fig. 6 are included.

[0053] With reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 in conjunction with Fig. 2 to 5, the battery pack 100a according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a battery cell stack 120 including a plurality of battery cells 110; a carrier 200 having a bottom part 210 and a side surface part 220, and accommodating a battery cell stack 120 in an internal space formed by the bottom part 210 and the side surface parts 220; and at least one fixing member 300a for fixing the battery cell stack 120. In the present disclosure, a battery pack refers to a unit for transporting a battery cell stack 120 including a plurality of battery cells 110 during the manufacturing process of a battery pack, etc.

[0054] As mentioned above, the carrier 200 may include a bottom part 210 and side surface parts 220, and the battery cell stack 120 is housed in an interior space formed by the bottom part 210 and the side surface parts 220. That is, the battery cell stack 120 is placed on the bottom part 210, and the side surface parts 220 may cover the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120. The carrier 200 may include a material resistant to external impacts, such as steel, aluminum (Al), plastic, or reinforced plastic.

[0055] In contrast to the conventional method in which the battery cell stack is housed in a module frame to manufacture battery modules, and such battery modules are placed on the pack frame, simplified structures such as the CTP (Cell to Pack) structure in which the battery cell stack is directly placed on the pack frame have recently been adopted. By eliminating the module frame, the space utilization in the battery pack unit is increased, and an improvement in the overall energy density and a reduction in weight are possible. To manufacture a battery pack with such a simplified structure, the process of assembling and transporting the battery cell stack is an essential requirement. The battery pack according to the present embodiment may be configured to transport a battery cell stack instead of transporting a battery module.

[0056] Since the battery cell stack is transported instead of the battery module, the battery pack according to the present embodiment requires a means for continuously pressing the battery cell stack to prevent slippage during transportation and to fix and protect the battery cell stack. As such a means, the fixing member 300a according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0057] The battery pack 100a according to the present embodiment may further include at least one pressure plate 400 arranged perpendicular to a surface of the bottom part 210 in the interior space, and the fixing member 300a according to the present embodiment may be a cam clamp located between the pressure plate 400 and the side surface part 220.

[0058] In particular, the fixing element 300a, which is a cam clamp, may include a camshaft 310a and a cam member 320a connected to the camshaft 310a. The cam member 320a may rotate asymmetrically around the camshaft 310a. For example, the cam member 320a may be circular or elliptical, and the camshaft 310a may be connected to the cam member 320a in a region between the center and the circumference of the cam member 320a.

[0059] That is, in response to the asymmetric rotation of the cam part 320a, the pressure plate 400 may move in a direction in which the battery cell stack 120 is located to press the battery cell stack 120, and the pressure plate 400 may move in a direction opposite to the direction in which the battery cell stack 120 is located, so that a clearance can be ensured between the pressure plate 400 and the battery cell stack 120.

[0060] Based on the above structure, the method for fixing the battery cell stack 120 to the interior of the carrier 200 will be described. As in Fig. 7(a), the long axis of the cam member 320a is parallel to a surface of the pressure plate 400 in the longitudinal direction to ensure a space between the pressure plates 400. In this state, the battery cell stack 120 is arranged between the pressure plates 400. Then, as shown in (b) of Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the cam member 320a is rotated to ensure that a short axis of the cam member 320a is parallel to a surface of the pressure plate 400 in the longitudinal direction. In response to the rotation of the cam member 320a, the pressure plate 400 presses on the battery cell stack 120, and the battery cell stack 120 can be fixed in the interior of the carrier 200 without slipping.

[0061] Meanwhile, a protective element 500 may be located on a surface of the pressure plate 400 facing the battery cell stack 120. Since direct pressing of the pressure plate 400 may damage the battery cell stack 120, a protective element 500 may be provided on one surface of the pressure plate 400. Furthermore, the protective element 500 may mitigate vibrations and shocks during transportation. The protective element 500 preferably contains a material with a compression property and may, for example, contain one or more materials selected from the group consisting of expanded polypropylene (EPP), urethane, and silicone.

[0062] Meanwhile, on each of the side surfaces facing each other between the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing of the fixing member 300a may be performed in a direction in which the side surfaces face each other. The battery cell stack 120 may be fixed while the pressing of the fixing members 300a in a facing direction reaches equilibrium. Specifically, the battery cell stack 120 may have a first side surface 121, a second side surface 122, a third side surface 123, and a fourth side surface 124. Here, the first side surface 121 and the second side surface 122 may be the side surfaces in which the cushion member 140 is located, and the third side surface 123 and the fourth side surface 124 may be the side surfaces in which the busbar frame 130 is located.On both the first side surface 121 and the second side surface 122, which face each other between the side surfaces 121, 122, 123, and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing of the fixing member 300a can be performed in a direction in which the first side 121 and the second side 122 face each other. The pressing by the fixing member 300a can be performed in the X-axis direction on the first side surface 121, and the pressing by the fixing member 300a can be performed in the -X-axis direction on the second side 122.

[0063] Furthermore, on both the third side surface 123 and the fourth side surface 124 facing each other between the side surfaces 121, 122, 123, and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing of the fixing member 300a may be performed in a direction in which the third side surface 123 and the fourth side surface 124 face each other. The pressing by the fixing member 300a may be performed in the Y-axis direction on the third side surface 123, and the pressing by the fixing member 300a may be performed in the -Y-axis direction on the fourth side surface 124.

[0064] In the present embodiment, on each of the four side surfaces 121, 122, 123 and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing by the fixing member 300a is performed in a direction toward each of the four side surfaces 121, 122, 123 and 124.

[0065] Next, the battery pack 100b according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 8 described.

[0066] Fig. 8 is a plan view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] With reference to Fig. 8, a battery pack 100b according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a battery cell stack 120, a carrier 200, at least one fixing member 300b, and at least one pressure plate 400. To avoid repetition of description, descriptions of configurations that are the same as those previously described are omitted.

[0068] The fixing member 300b according to the present embodiment may be a spring member located between the pressure plate 400 and the side surface part 220. The fixing member 300b, which is a spring member, may be arranged so that an elastic force acts toward the pressure plate. Furthermore, when an elastic force acts toward the pressure plate, the type and number of the spring member are not particularly limited. For example, the fixing member 300b may be a coil spring or a leaf spring.

[0069] Based on the above structure, the method for fixing the battery cell stack 120 to the interior of the carrier 200 will be described. A force is applied to the pressure plate 400 to compress the fixing member 300b, which is a spring member, and ensure a space between the pressure plates 400. In this state, the battery cell stack 120 is sandwiched between the pressure plates 400. Subsequently, when the force acting on the pressure plate 400 is removed, the pressure plate 400 presses the battery cell stack 120 by the elastic force of the fixing member 300b, and the battery cell stack 120 can be fixed in the interior of the carrier 200 without slipping.

[0070] Meanwhile, on each of the side surfaces facing each other between the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120, the fixing element 300b can be pressed in a direction in which the side surfaces face each other. The battery cell stack 120 can be fixed while the pressure of the fixing elements 300b exerted in a facing direction reaches equilibrium. In particular, on both the first side surface 121 and the second side surface 122 facing each other between the side surfaces 121, 122, 123, and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the fixing element 300b can be pressed in a direction in which the first side surface 121 and the second side surface 122 face each other.The pressing by the fixing member 300b may be performed on the first side surface 121 in the X-axis direction, and the pressing by the fixing member 300b may be performed on the second side surface 122 in the -X-axis direction.

[0071] Furthermore, on both the third side surface 123 and the fourth side surface 124 facing each other between the side surfaces 121, 122, 123, and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing of the fixing member 300b may be performed in a direction in which the third side surface 123 and the fourth side surface 124 face each other. The pressing by the fixing member 300b may be performed in the Y-axis direction on the third side surface 123, and the pressing by the fixing member 300b may be performed in the -Y-axis direction on the fourth side surface 124.

[0072] In the present embodiment, on each of the four side surfaces 121, 122, 123 and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing is preferably performed by the fixing member 300b in a direction toward each of the four side surfaces 121, 122, 123 and 124.

[0073] Next, the battery pack 100c according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 9 described in detail.

[0074] Fig. 9 is a plan view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] With reference to Fig. 9, the battery pack 100c according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a battery cell stack 120, a carrier 200, at least one fixing member 300c, and at least one pressure plate 400. To avoid repetition of description, descriptions of configurations that are the same as those described above are omitted.

[0076] The fixing member 300c according to the present embodiment may be a bolt member that penetrates a through-hole formed in the side surface part 220. That is, the fixing member 300c, which is a bolt member having a screw thread formed on the outer surface, may be arranged to pass through the through-hole. In addition, a screw thread is formed on the inner surface of the through-hole, and the fixing member 300c can press the pressure plate 400 by screwing the fixing member 300c. Screwing refers to tightening and loosening the fixing member 300c.

[0077] Based on the above structure, the method for fixing the battery cell stack 120 to the interior of the carrier 200 will be described. The fixing member 300c is loosened to ensure a space between the pressure plates 400. In this state, the battery cell stack 120 is arranged between the pressure plates 400. Subsequently, the fixing member 300c is tightened so that the fixing member 300c presses the pressure plate 400, and the pressure plate 400 presses the battery cell stack 120. This allows the battery cell stack 120 to be fixed in the interior of the carrier 200 without slipping.

[0078] Meanwhile, on each of the side surfaces facing each other between the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120, the fixing member 300c can be pressed in a direction in which the side surfaces face each other. The battery cell stack 120 can be fixed while the pressing of the fixing members 300c in a direction facing each other achieves equilibrium. Specifically, on both the first side surface 121 and the second side surface 122 facing each other between the side surfaces 121, 122, 123, and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the fixing member 300c can be pressed in a direction in which the first side surface 121 and the second side surface 122 face each other.The printing by the fixing member 300c may be performed on the first side surface 121 in the X-axis direction, and the pressing by the fixing member 300c may be performed on the second side surface 122 in the -X-axis direction.

[0079] Furthermore, on both the third side surface 123 and the fourth side surface 124 facing each other between the side surfaces 121, 122, 123, and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing of the fixing member 300c may be performed in a direction in which the third side surface 123 and the fourth side surface 124 face each other. The pressing by a fixing member 300c may be performed in the Y-axis direction on the third side surface 123, and the pressing by the fixing member 300c may be performed in the -Y-axis direction on the fourth side surface 124.

[0080] In the present embodiment, on each of the four side surfaces 121, 122, 123 and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing is preferably performed by the fixing member 300c in a direction toward each of the four side surfaces 121, 122, 123 and 124.

[0081] Next, the battery pack 100d according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 described in detail.

[0082] Fig. 10 is a plan view of a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the section line AA' of Fig. 10.

[0083] With reference to Fig. 10 and Fig. 11, a battery pack 100d according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a battery cell stack 120, a carrier 200, and at least one fixing element 300d. To avoid repetition of description, descriptions of configurations that overlap with those described previously are omitted.

[0084] The fixing member 300d according to the present embodiment may be a band member that surrounds at least a portion of the outer surfaces of the battery cell stack 120.

[0085] A plurality of fixing elements 300d may be formed and extend along the upper surface, both side surfaces, and the lower surface of the battery cell stack 120. On the upper surface or the lower surface of the battery cell stack 120, some fixing elements 300d may extend along a direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked, and another fixing element 300d may extend along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked. The method is not limited, but it is preferable that the plurality of fixing elements 300d surround the battery cell stack 120 in different directions to strongly restrict the movement of the battery cells 110. Furthermore, for example, a fixing element 300d that is a band member may enclose the battery cell stack 120, and the fixing element 300d may be fixed by a clamp 310d, as shown in Fig. 11 is shown.

[0086] A protective element 500 may be located between the fixing element 300d and the battery cell stack 120. This protective element 500 may prevent the fixing element 300d, which is a band element, from damaging the battery cell stack 120. Furthermore, the protective element 500 may mitigate vibrations and shocks during transportation. The protective element 500 preferably contains a material with a compression property and may, for example, contain one or more materials selected from the group consisting of expanded polypropylene (EPP), urethane, and silicone.

[0087] Meanwhile, a block 600 that restricts the movement of the battery cell stack 120 may be arranged in a space between the battery cell stack 120 wrapped by the tape member and the side surface part 220.

[0088] Based on the above structure, the method for fixing the battery cell stack 120 in the interior of the carrier 200 will be described. The battery cell stack 120 is wound around a fixing member 300d, which is a band member, and fixed with a clamp 310d. Such a battery cell stack 120 is arranged to be fixed between the blocks 600, so that the battery cell stack 120 can be fixed in the interior of the carrier 200 without slipping.

[0089] Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 13 is a partial perspective view showing an enlarged view of a fixing member attached to the battery pack of Fig. 12 is arranged.

[0090] With reference to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the battery pack according to the present embodiment may further include a handling case 700 in which the battery cell stack 120 and the carrier 200 are housed together. That is, the battery cell stack 120 may be housed in the handling case 700 in a state of being housed in the carrier 200. At this time, a plurality of battery cell stacks 120 may be housed in the handling case 700, and each of the battery cell stacks 120 may be in a state of being housed in the carrier 200. The carrier 200 may have a bottom part 210 and a side surface part 220 as described above.

[0091] The fixing element 300e can be provided on the handling housing 700 or the carrier 200 to press on the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120. In Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 illustrates a state in which the fixing member 300e is provided in the handling case 700. Here, the pressing on the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120 includes not only a case where the fixing member directly abuts the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120, but also a case where an additional member or an additional support 200, etc., is located between the battery cell stack 120 and the fixing member, and the fixing member indirectly presses the side surface of the battery cell stack 120.

[0092] On each of the side surfaces facing each other between the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing of the fixing member 300e can be performed in a direction in which the side surfaces face each other. The battery cell stack 120 can be fixed while the pressing of the fixing members 300e in the facing directions reaches a balance. In the present embodiment, on each of the four side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing is preferably performed by the fixing member 300e in a direction toward each of the four side surfaces. When the fixing member 300e is provided in the handling case 700 in this way, the entire battery cell stack 120 and the carrier 200 can be fixed within the handling case 700.

[0093] In particular, the side surface part 220 of the carrier 200 can have a first side surface part 221, a second side surface part 222, a third side surface part 223, and a fourth side surface part 224. On both the first side surface part 221 and the second side surface part 222, which face each other between the side surface parts 220 of the carrier 200, the fixing element 300e can be pressed in a direction in which the first side surface part 221 and the second side surface part 222 face each other. Furthermore, on both the third side surface part 223 and the fourth side surface part 224, which face each other between the side surface parts 220 of the carrier 200, the pressing of the fixing element 300e can be carried out in a direction in which the third side surface part 223 and the fourth side surface part 224 face each other.

[0094] The fixing element 300e according to the present embodiment is not particularly limited in its shape as long as a compressive force can be applied in one direction. For example, the fixing element 300e can be a quick release. The quick release operates on the principle of a lever and is a device that can apply a large pressure in one direction to a desired location with little effort by operating the lever once.

[0095] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] With reference to Fig. 14, in another embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery pack may further include a handling case 700 in which the battery cell stack 120 and the carrier 200 are housed together. As mentioned above, the battery cell stack 120 may be housed in the handling case 700 in a state of being housed in the carrier 200. Furthermore, a plurality of battery cell stacks 120 may be housed in the handling case 700, and each of the battery cell stacks 120 may be in a state of being housed in the carrier 200. The carrier 200 may have a bottom part 210 and a side surface part 220, as described above.

[0097] The fixing element 300e is provided on the carrier 200 and can press on the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120. In Fig. 14 shows a state in which a fixing element 300e is provided on the carrier 200.

[0098] Similar to the previously described embodiments, on each of the side surfaces facing each other between the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing of the fixing member 300e can be performed in a direction in which the side surfaces face each other. The battery cell stack 120 can be fixed while the pressing of the fixing members 300e in the facing directions achieves balance. Furthermore, on each of the four side surfaces of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing by the fixing members 300e is preferably performed in a direction toward each of the four side surfaces. When the fixing member 300e is provided on the carrier 200 in this way, each of the battery cell stacks 120 can be fixed within the carrier 200.

[0099] More specifically, as mentioned above, the battery cell stack 120 may have a first side surface 121, a second side surface 122, a third side surface 123, and a fourth side surface 124. On both the first side surface 121 and the second side surface 122, which face each other between the side surfaces 121, 122, 123, and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the fixing element 300e may be pressed in a direction in which the first side surface 121 and the second side surface 122 face each other. Furthermore, on both the third side surface 123 and the fourth side surface 124, which face each other between the side surfaces 121, 122, 123 and 124 of the battery cell stack 120, the pressing of the fixing element 300e can take place in a direction in which the third side surface 123 and the fourth side surface 124 face each other.

[0100] On the other hand, with reference to Fig.12 to 14, the handling case 700 according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of columns 710 extending along the height direction and a plurality of horizontal bars 720 extending along the horizontal direction perpendicular to the columns 710. Here, the height direction may be a virtual direction perpendicular to the ground, and the horizontal direction may be a virtual direction perpendicular to the height direction and parallel to the ground. The columns 710 and the horizontal bars 720 may form an outer shape of the handling case 700.

[0101] Specifically, four columns 710 may be arranged on a plane at the four vertices of a virtual rectangle. Horizontal bars 720 may connect these four columns 710. That is, the horizontal bars 720 may connect two adjacent columns 710 to each other. Furthermore, a plurality of horizontal bars 720 connecting the two columns 710 may be provided, and the horizontal bars 720 connecting the two columns 710 may be arranged at predetermined intervals along the height direction.

[0102] The columns 710 and the horizontal bars 720 form an outer shape of the handling case 700, and the battery cell stack 120 housed in the carrier 200 can be housed and stacked in the interior of the handling case 700. Here, the interior of the handling case 700 is a space surrounded by the columns 710 and the horizontal bars 720.

[0103] On the other hand, the handling case 700 according to the present embodiment may further include a bottom load 730 on which the battery cell stack 120 housed in the carrier 200 is placed, and an inner bar 740 that divides the interior of the handling case 700. The bottom bars 730 on which the battery cell stack 120 is placed may have a shape similar to the horizontal bar 720, so that an open space is formed between them. The inner bar 740 may be configured to separate spaces between the battery cell stacks 120 arranged along the extension direction of the horizontal bar 720.

[0104] In the handling case 700 according to the present embodiment, instead of a plate-shaped member forming the outer shape, a plurality of columns 710 and a horizontal bar 720 form the outer shape. This minimizes the weight per volume of the handling case 700 while ensuring structural rigidity. The handling case 700 may be made of a material resistant to external impact, such as steel, aluminum (Al), plastic, or reinforced plastic.

[0105] Furthermore, the battery pack is easy to transport because space is provided between the columns 710 or the horizontal bars 720. That is, while a device for transporting the battery pack is inserted into the space between the columns 710 or between the horizontal bars 720, it is possible to transport the battery pack.

[0106] Furthermore, the fixing member 300e may be located in an open space between the columns 710 or between the horizontal bars 720. That is, since the open space is provided between the columns 710 or between the horizontal bars 720, the battery cell stack 120 housed in the carrier 200 is housed in the handling case 700, and then the function of the fixing member 300e can be adjusted through the open space, so that the fixing of the battery cell stack 120 can be easily adjusted. If the handling case were a plate-shaped member, it might be difficult to adjust the function of the fixing member after the battery cell stack 120 is housed in the handling case 700. If the fixing member 300e is a quick-release type, the operation of the lever is primarily required to apply pressure for fixing.The quick release lever can be operated through the open space between the columns 710 or between the horizontal bars 720.

[0107] In the present embodiment, terms representing directions such as "front", "back", "left side", "right side", "upper side", and "lower side" were used, but the terms used are only for convenience of description and may change according to the position of an object, the position of an observer, or the like.

[0108] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements can be made by those skilled in the art using the basic concepts of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims, which also fall within the scope of the present disclosure. [Description of reference numbers] 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d battery pack 200 carriers 300a, 300b, 300c, 300d fixing element 400 printing plate 500 protective elements 600 blocks QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] KR 10-2023-0036069

[0001] KR 10-2024-0037970

[0001]

Claims

[1] Battery pack comprising: a battery cell stack including a plurality of battery cells; a carrier having a base part and side surface parts, and receiving the battery cell stack in an interior space formed by the base part and the side surface parts; and at least one fixing element for fixing the battery cell stack. [2] The battery pack of claim 1, further comprising: at least one pressure plate arranged perpendicular to a surface of the base part in the interior. [3] Battery pack according to claim 2, wherein: the fixing element is a cam clamp located between the pressure plate and the side surface part. [4] Battery pack according to claim 3, wherein: the cam clamp includes a camshaft and a cam part connected to the camshaft, and the cam part rotates asymmetrically around the camshaft. [5] Battery pack according to claim 4, wherein: the cam part is circular or elliptical, and the camshaft is connected to the cam part in an area between a center and a circumference of the cam part. [6] Battery pack according to claim 2, wherein: the fixing element is a spring element located between the pressure plate and the side surface part. [7] Battery pack according to claim 6, wherein: the fixing element is arranged so that an elastic force acts in the direction of the pressure plate. [8] Battery pack according to claim 2, wherein: the fixing element is a bolt element penetrating a through hole formed in the side surface part. [9] Battery pack according to claim 8, wherein: a screw thread is formed on an inner surface of the through hole and the fixing element presses the pressure plate by screwing the fixing element. [10] Battery pack according to claim 2, wherein: a protective element is located on a surface of the pressure plate facing the battery cell stack. [11] Battery pack according to claim 1, wherein: the fixing element is a band element that surrounds at least a portion of outer surfaces of the battery cell stack. [12] Battery pack according to claim 11, wherein: there is a protective element between the fixing element and the battery cell stack. [13] The battery pack of claim 1, further comprising: a handling housing in which the battery cell stack and the carrier are housed together. [14] A battery pack according to claim 13, wherein: the fixing element is provided on the handling housing or the carrier and presses side surfaces of the battery cell stack, and on each of the side surfaces facing each other between the side surfaces of the battery cell stack, the fixing element is pressed in a direction in which the side surfaces face each other. [15] A battery pack according to claim 14, wherein: the fixing element is a quick release. [16] A battery pack according to claim 13, wherein: the handling housing includes a plurality of columns extending along a height direction and a plurality of horizontal bars extending along a horizontal direction perpendicular to the columns, and the columns and the horizontal bars form an outer shape of the handling housing. [17] Battery pack according to claim 1, wherein: the battery cells are pouch-type battery cells that are stacked along one direction within the battery cell stack.

Images