Battery pack

Abstract

To provide a battery pack.SOLUTION: A battery pack includes a battery cell extending in the vertical direction and including a plurality of electrode tabs, a substrate on which a protective element is disposed, fixed to an upper end of the battery cell, and electrically connected to the plurality of electrode tabs, and a support plate interposed between the battery cell and the substrate and configured to support the substrate, and the support plate may include at least two or more partial support portions spaced apart in the horizontal direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack.

Background Art

[0002] A secondary battery is a battery that can be charged and discharged, unlike a primary battery that cannot be charged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in portable small electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, notebook computers, digital cameras, and camcorders, and high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources for motor driving such as hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles and batteries for power storage. Such secondary batteries include an electrode assembly composed of a positive electrode and a negative electrode, a case for housing the same, electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly, and the like.

[0003] A battery pack and / or a battery module may include a protection circuit module configured to protect an internal circuit during charging and / or discharging. The protection circuit module may include a substrate on which protection circuit elements are arranged. The protection circuit module may be arranged inside the packaging that forms the appearance of the battery pack or on the packaging of the battery pack. It is necessary to prevent damage to the protection circuit module due to external force.

[0004] The above-described information disclosed in the technology that is the background of such an invention is merely for improving the understanding of the background of the present invention, and thus may include information that does not constitute the prior art.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack including a support plate that supports the substrate of the protection circuit module and can prevent damage.

[0006] However, the technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the above-described problems, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description of the invention.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The battery pack for solving the above problems includes: a battery cell extending in the vertical direction and including a plurality of electrode tabs; a substrate on which a protection element is disposed, fixed to the upper end of the battery cell, and electrically connected to the plurality of electrode tabs; and a support plate interposed between the battery cell and the substrate and configured to support the substrate. The support plate may include at least two or more partial support portions spaced apart in the horizontal direction.

[0008] The substrate, the support plate, and the battery cell may be sequentially arranged from top to bottom.

[0009] The substrate includes a first surface to which the plurality of electrode tabs are connected, and the support plate may be disposed on a second surface opposite to the first surface.

[0010] The first support portion and the second support portion included in the partial support portion may be respectively disposed at both ends of the substrate in the horizontal direction.

[0011] The protection element may be disposed on the second surface of the substrate.

[0012] The thicknesses of the first support portion and the second support portion are greater than the thickness of the protection element.

[0013] The first support portion and the second support portion may have a step recessed in the direction toward the substrate.

[0014] The protection element may be disposed on the first surface of the substrate.

[0015] The partial support portion may include a third support portion formed wider than the horizontal width of the protection element at a position corresponding to the protection element with the substrate interposed therebetween.

[0016] The partial support portion may have a step that is recessed in the direction toward the substrate.

[0017] The support plate may expose the substrate between the partial support portions.

Advantages of the Invention

[0018] The battery pack according to the present invention can provide a battery pack including a support plate that can protect the protection circuit module.

[0019] The battery pack according to the present invention can provide a battery pack including a protection circuit module that provides excellent mechanical strength.

[0020] However, the effects obtained through the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and other technical effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate desirable embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention to be described later, serve to further understand the technical idea of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be construed as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings.

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. First, the terms and words used in this specification and the claims should not be construed in a normal or dictionary sense, but should be construed in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical idea of the present invention in accordance with the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms in order to explain his invention in the best way. Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the illustrated configurations are only some of the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent any of the technical ideas of the present invention. It should be understood that various equivalents and modifications capable of substituting these at the time of filing this application are possible. Also, as used in this specification, "comprise", "include" and / or "comprising", "including" identify the presence of the recited shape, number, step, operation, member, element and / or group thereof, and do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other shapes, numbers, operations, members, elements and / or groups. Also, when describing embodiments of the present invention, "can be ~" and "is also ~" may include "one or more embodiments of the present invention".

[0023] Also, to assist in understanding the invention, the accompanying drawings are not shown at actual scale, and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated. Also, in different embodiments, the same reference numerals may be assigned to the same components.

[0024] Two comparison targets being "identical" means "substantially identical". Therefore, substantial identity may include cases having a deviation considered to be a low level in the art, for example, a deviation within 5%. Also, in a given region, the fact that a certain parameter is uniform may mean that it is uniform from an average perspective.

[0025] Even if terms such as "first", "second", etc. are used to describe various components, it goes without saying that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another, and unless there is a contrary description, it goes without saying that the first component can also be the second component.

[0026] Throughout the specification, unless there is a contrary description, each component can be either singular or plural.

[0027] The statement that any configuration is arranged "above (or below)" a component or "on (or under)" a component means that any configuration is not only arranged in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of the component, but also that other configurations may be interposed between the component and any configuration arranged above (or below) the component.

[0028] Also, when a component is described as being "coupled", "connected", or "joined" to another component, it should be understood that the components can be directly coupled or connected to each other, but it is also possible for other components to be "interposed" between the components, or for each component to be "coupled", "connected", or "joined" through other components. Also, when a part is said to be electrically coupled to another part, this includes not only the case where they are directly connected, but also the case where other elements are interposed in between.

[0029] Throughout the specification, when it is stated as "A and / or B", this means A, B, or A and B, unless there is a contrary description. That is, "and / or" includes all combinations or any combination of the listed multiple items. When it is stated as "C to D", this means C or more and D or less, unless there is a contrary description.

[0030] Hereinafter, a battery pack according to an exemplary embodiment will be described based on the accompanying drawings.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the battery pack 1 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 1, the battery pack 1 may include battery cells 10 configured to store power. The battery cells 10 may include secondary batteries. The battery cells 10 may include pouch-type batteries. The battery cells 10 may extend in the vertical direction. The vertical direction is also the first direction. The first direction is also a direction parallel to the z-axis. However, the type and shape of the battery cells 10 are not limited to the above description.

[0033] The battery pack 1 according to an exemplary embodiment may include a protection circuit module 20. The protection circuit module 20 may be configured to protect the internal circuit when the battery cells 10 are charged and / or discharged. The protection circuit module 20 may include a PCM (Power Control Module). The protection circuit module 20 may be disposed on the upper part of the battery cells 10. The protection circuit module 20 may be disposed on the battery cells 10. When the battery cells 10 are charged and / or discharged, power may be transmitted through the protection circuit module 20. The protection circuit module 20 may be connected to a connector 100 configured to connect the battery cells 10 and an external device. However, the functions and roles of the protection circuit module 20 are not limited to the above description.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the process of connecting the protection circuit module 20 to the electrode tab 11 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the process of applying a force P to the protection circuit module 20 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the process of disposing the protection circuit module 20 on the upper part of the battery cells 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which the protection circuit module 20 is disposed on the upper part of the battery cells 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, the protection circuit module 20 according to the exemplary embodiment can be electrically connected to the electrode tab 11 of the battery cell 10. A process of connecting the protection circuit module 20 to the electrode tab 11 of the battery pack 1 is also required. The protection circuit module 20 can include an electrode accommodating portion 300. The electrode accommodating portion 300 can be electrically connected to the electrode tab 11 of the battery cell 10.

[0036] The protection circuit module 20 can be electrically connected to the battery pack 1 and disposed on top of the battery cell 10. Hereinafter, a process of electrically connecting the protection circuit module 20 to the electrode tab 11 of the battery cell 10 and disposing it on top of the battery cell 10 will be specifically described.

[0037] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery cell 10 according to the exemplary embodiment can include a plurality of electrode tabs 11. The electrode tab 11 can include a nickel tab. The electrode tab 11 is also a flexible electrode tab 11. The electrode tab 11 can be disposed on top of the battery cell 10. The electrode tab 11 can electrically connect the protection circuit module 20 and the battery cell 10. The protection circuit module 20 can be electrically connected to the battery cell 10 via the electrode tab 11.

[0038] On the other hand, the protection circuit module 20 can include a substrate 30. The substrate 30 is also a flexible circuit board 30. The substrate 30 can include an FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Board). The components included in the protection circuit module 20 can be disposed on the upper surface and / or the lower surface of the substrate 30. The lower surface is also the surface where the protection circuit module 20 faces the battery cell 10. The upper surface is also the other surface opposite to the lower surface. The direction connecting the upper surface and the lower surface is also a direction parallel to the extension direction of the battery cell 10. The direction connecting the upper surface and the lower surface is also the first direction. The first direction is also a direction parallel to the z-axis. However, the type, arrangement, and configuration of the substrate 30 are not limited to the above description.

[0039] The protection circuit module 20 according to an exemplary embodiment may be disposed on top of the battery cell 10. By disposing the protection circuit module 20 on top of the battery cell 10, the substrate 30 may be disposed on top of the battery cell 10. The substrate 30 may be disposed on top of the battery cell 10. The substrate 30 may be disposed on the upper surface of the battery cell 10. The substrate 30 may be disposed on the upper surface of the battery cell 10. When the substrate 30 is disposed on the upper surface of the battery cell 10, the lower surface of the substrate 30 may be disposed in a direction facing the battery cell 10. However, the arrangement relationship between the substrate 30 and the battery cell 10 is not limited to the above description.

[0040] The substrate 30 according to an exemplary embodiment may have a thickness in the vertical direction and a width in the horizontal direction. The substrate 30 may have a thickness in the vertical direction. The vertical direction is also parallel to the extending direction of the battery cell 10. The vertical direction is also the first direction. The vertical direction is also a direction parallel to the z-axis.

[0041] The substrate 30 may have a width in the horizontal direction. The horizontal direction is also a direction intersecting the extending direction of the battery cell 10. The horizontal direction is also a direction intersecting the direction perpendicular to the substrate. The horizontal direction is also a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the battery cell 10. The horizontal direction is also a second direction intersecting the first direction. The horizontal direction is also a direction parallel to the x-axis. However, the shape of the substrate 30 is not limited to the above description.

[0042] The protection circuit module 20 according to an exemplary embodiment may include a protection element 4 disposed on the substrate 30. The protection element 4 may include an integrated circuit element. The protection element 4 is also an IC chip. The protection element 4 may perform at least a part of the circuit protection function performed by the protection circuit module 20. However, the function of the protection element 4 is not limited to the above description.

[0043] The protection element 4 according to an exemplary embodiment can be arranged on the substrate 30. The protection element 4 can be arranged on one surface of the substrate 30. One surface of the substrate 30 is also at least one of the surface of the substrate 30 facing the battery cell 10 and the other surface in the opposite direction. However, the position where the protection element 4 is arranged on the substrate 30 is not limited to the above description. For example, the protection element 4 can be arranged on the surface of the substrate 30 facing the battery cell 10 and the surface in the opposite direction respectively.

[0044] The protection element 4 according to an exemplary embodiment can be arranged at the central part of the substrate 30. The central part of the substrate 30 is also the position across the horizontal width of the substrate 30. The central part of the substrate 30 is also the position separated by a predetermined distance from both ends in the horizontal direction of the substrate 30. However, the position where the protection element 4 is arranged on the substrate 30 is not limited to the above description. For example, the protection element 4 can be arranged at either one of both ends of the substrate 30.

[0045] The protection circuit module 20 according to an exemplary embodiment can include a support plate 5. The support plate 5 can be configured to support the substrate 30. The support plate 5 can be arranged on one surface of the substrate 30. The support plate 5 can be configured to protect the substrate 30. The support plate 5 can be configured to protect the protection element 4. Specific details regarding the function and shape of the support plate 5 will be described later.

[0046] Again, referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, it will be understood that the protection circuit module 20 can be arranged on the upper part of the battery cell 10 by connecting the electrode tab 11 of the battery cell 10 to the substrate 30 and rotating the substrate 30. The fact that the protection circuit module 20 is arranged on the upper part of the battery cell 10 means that the substrate 30 can be arranged on the upper part of the battery cell 10. Arranging the protection circuit module 20 on the upper part of the battery cell 10 can constitute at least a part of the process of fixing the protection circuit module 20 to the upper part of the battery cell 10.

[0047] The protection circuit module 20 can be fixed to the upper end of the battery cell 10. The substrate 30 can be fixed to the upper end of the battery cell 10. The fact that the substrate 30 is fixed to the upper end of the battery cell 10 may not only be in direct contact with the upper surface of the battery cell 10, but may also include that members serving as fixing members and / or supporting members are interposed.

[0048] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, it will be understood that the substrate 30 can be rotated facing the battery cell 10 in the process of arranging the protection circuit module 20 on the upper part of the battery cell 10. That is, in the process of arranging the protection circuit module 20 on the upper part of the battery cell 10, the substrate 30 can be rotated about the width direction of the substrate 30. That is, in the process of arranging the protection circuit module 20 on the upper part of the battery cell 10, the substrate 30 can be rotated about the second direction. That is, in the process of arranging the protection circuit module 20 on the upper part of the battery cell 10, the substrate 30 can be rotated about the second direction. That is, in the process of arranging the protection circuit module 20 on the upper part of the battery cell 10, the substrate 30 can be rotated about the x-axis direction. However, it is not essential for the substrate 30 to rotate in the process of arranging the protection circuit module 20 on the upper part of the battery cell 10. For example, with the substrate 30 arranged on the upper part of the battery cell 10, the electrode tab 11 can be connected to the electrode accommodating part 300, whereby the substrate 30 can be arranged on the upper part of the battery cell 10.

[0049] The electrode tab 11 of the battery cell 10 and / or the electrode accommodating part 300 of the substrate 30 according to the exemplary embodiment may include a flexible material. When the substrate 30 is rotated with the electrode tab 11 electrically connected to the electrode accommodating part 300, the shape of the electrode accommodating part 300 and / or the electrode tab 11 can be changed along the surface of the substrate 30. When the substrate 30 is rotated with the electrode tab 11 electrically connected to the electrode accommodating part 300, the electrode accommodating part 300 and / or the electrode tab 11 are bent according to the rotation direction of the substrate 30. However, the material and shape of the electrode accommodating part 300 and / or the electrode tab 11 are not limited to the above description.

[0050] On the one hand, an external force may be transmitted to the protection circuit module 20 during the process of disposing the substrate 30 on top of the battery cell 10. An external force may be transmitted to the substrate 30 during the process of disposing the substrate 30 on top of the battery cell 10. An external force may be transmitted to the substrate 30 during the process of rotating the substrate 30. The direction of the external force acting on the substrate 30 is also a direction parallel to the thickness direction of the substrate 30. The external force is also due to mechanical operation and is also the force P applied by the operator. However, the external force applied to the substrate 30 is not limited to the above description. For example, even after the protection circuit module 20 is disposed on top of the battery cell 10, an external force may act on the substrate 30. For example, referring to FIG. 5, an external force Q may act from the upper direction of the battery pack 1.

[0051] The thickness of the protection circuit module 20 according to an exemplary embodiment is also 0.3 mm or more and 1.5 mm or less. The thickness of the substrate 30 is also 0.6 mm or more and 1.3 mm or less. The thickness of the substrate 30 is also 0.9 mm or more and 1.1 mm or less. However, the thickness of the protection circuit module 20 described above is merely an exemplary listing and is not limited to the above description.

[0052] On the other hand, when an excessive external force acts on the substrate 30, the substrate 30 may be damaged. When an excessive external force acts on the substrate 30, the protection element 4 may be damaged. When an excessive external force acts on the substrate 30, the substrate 30 may be bent. When the substrate 30 is bent, the protection element 4 may be damaged. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent the protection circuit module 20 from being damaged by an external force.

[0053] Hereinafter, the functions and configurations of the support plate 5 configured to protect the substrate 30 and / or the protection element 4 will be specifically described.

[0054] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the protection circuit module 20 according to an exemplary embodiment. The protection circuit module 20 in FIG. 6 is also a front view of the protection circuit module 20 in FIG. 3 viewed from the y-axis direction.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the protection circuit module 20 according to an exemplary embodiment may include a support plate 5. The support plate 5 may be disposed on one surface of the substrate 30. The support plate 5 may be disposed on one surface of the substrate 30 in the vertical direction of the substrate 30. The support plate 5 may be disposed in a direction different from that of the electrode accommodating portion 300 disposed on one surface of the substrate 30. The support plate 5 may be disposed on the substrate 30 in a direction different from that of the electrode accommodating portion 300. However, the arrangement of the support plate 5 is not limited to the above description. For example, the support plate 5 may be disposed on both surfaces of the substrate 30 in the vertical direction. For example, the support plate 5 may be disposed on the same surface as the surface on which the electrode accommodating portion 300 is disposed on the substrate 30.

[0056] The support plate 5 according to an exemplary embodiment can serve to reinforce the substrate 30. The support plate 5 may adhere the substrate 30 to the upper part of the battery cell 10. The support plate 5 may include a material with higher strength than the material of the substrate 30. However, the function of the support plate 5 is not limited to the above description.

[0057] The substrate 30 according to an exemplary embodiment may include a second surface 32 and a first surface 31 opposite thereto. The second surface 32 is also the surface of the substrate 30 on which the electrode accommodating portion 300 is disposed. The second surface 32 is also the surface of the substrate 30 to which the electrode tab 11 is connected. The second surface 32 is also the surface of the substrate 30 facing the battery cell 10 among the surfaces of the substrate 30. The second surface 32 is also the surface of the substrate 30 disposed above the battery cell 10 among the surfaces of the substrate 30. The second surface 32 is also the surface of the substrate 30 adhered to the battery cell 10 among the surfaces of the substrate 30. The second surface 32 is also the surface of the substrate 30 fixed to the battery cell 10 among the surfaces of the substrate 30. The first surface 31 is also the surface opposite to the second surface 32. The second surface 32 and the first surface 31 may be disposed in the z-axis direction. The second surface 32 and the first surface 31 may be disposed in the vertical direction.

[0058] In the substrate 30 of FIG. 6, the second surface 32 faces upward. However, when referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, it can be easily understood that in the battery pack 1, the second surface 32 of the substrate 30 is disposed to face the battery cell 10.

[0059] The support plate 5 according to an exemplary embodiment can be disposed on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. The support plate 5 can be attached on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. The support plate 5 can support the substrate 30 on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. The support plate 5 can be interposed between the battery cell 10 and the substrate 30. The support plate 5 can be disposed between the battery cell 10 and the substrate 30. The substrate 30, the support plate 5, and the battery cell 10 can be sequentially disposed from top to bottom. The substrate 30, the support plate 5, and the battery cell 10 can be sequentially disposed in the extending direction of the battery cell 10. The substrate 30, the support plate 5, and the battery cell 10 can be sequentially disposed in the extending direction of the battery cell 10. The substrate 30, the support plate 5, and the battery cell 10 can be sequentially disposed in the first direction. The substrate 30, the support plate 5, and the battery cell 10 can be sequentially disposed in the z-axis direction. However, the arrangement of the substrate 30, the support plate 5, and the battery cell 10 is not limited to the above description.

[0060] The protection element 4 according to an exemplary embodiment can be disposed on the first surface 31 of the substrate 30. The protection element 4 can be disposed on the surface of the substrate 30 opposite to the surface on which the support plate 5 is disposed. However, the arrangement of the protection element 4 is not limited to the above description. For example, the protection element 4 may be disposed on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 3, 5, and 6, the support plate 5 according to the exemplary embodiment may include partial support portions 50. There may be a plurality of partial support portions 50. There may be two or more partial support portions 50. The partial support portions 50 constituting the support plate 5 may be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction. The partial support portions 50 may be arranged spaced apart in the width direction of the substrate 30 in the horizontal direction. The partial support portions 50 may be arranged on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30 in a horizontally spaced-apart state. The horizontal direction is also the width direction of the substrate. The horizontal direction is also the second direction intersecting the first direction which is the extending direction of the battery cell 10. The horizontal direction is also the direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the battery cell 10. The horizontal direction is also the direction parallel to the x-axis. However, the direction in which the partial support portions are spaced apart is not limited to the above description.

[0062] The partial support portion 50 according to the exemplary embodiment may include a first support portion 51 and a second support portion 52. The first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 may be respectively arranged at both ends of the substrate 30 in the horizontal direction on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. The first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 may be arranged spaced apart by a predetermined distance in the second direction on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. The first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 may support the substrate 30 from the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. The first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 may support the substrate 30 at both ends of the substrate 30 in the horizontal direction.

[0063] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the protection circuit module 20 according to the exemplary embodiment. FIG. 7 is also a drawing conceptually explaining the change of the protection circuit module 20 when the external force shown in FIG. 3 acts on the protection circuit module 20 illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, the support plate 5 according to the exemplary embodiment can serve to disperse an external force acting on the protection circuit module 20. The partial support portion 50 can serve to disperse an external force acting on the substrate 30. When an external force acts on the substrate 30, the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 can disperse the force to both ends of the substrate 30. When an external force acts on the substrate 30, the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 can disperse the force in the width direction of the substrate 30. However, the functions of the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 are not limited to the above description.

[0065] The partial support portion 50 according to the exemplary embodiment may include a third support portion 53. The third support portion 53 can be interposed between the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52. The third support portion 53 can be disposed on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30 between the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52. The third support portion 53 can prevent damage to the protection element 4 against an external force applied to the protection circuit module 20.

[0066] The protection element 4 according to the exemplary embodiment may have a width wp in a direction parallel to the horizontal direction of the substrate 30. The width wp of the protection element 4 is also the width of the protection element 4 measured in a direction parallel to the second direction. The second direction is also a direction perpendicular to the first direction in which the battery cell 10 extends. The width wp of the protection element 4 is also the width of the protection element 4 measured in a direction parallel to the x-axis.

[0067] The third support portion 53 according to the exemplary embodiment may have a width ws in a direction parallel to the horizontal direction of the substrate 30. The width ws of the third support portion 53 is also the width of the third support portion 53 measured in a direction parallel to the second direction. The width ws of the third support portion 53 is also the width of the third support portion 53 measured in a direction parallel to the x-axis.

[0068] The third support portion 53 according to the exemplary embodiment can be formed wider than the horizontal width wp of the protection element 4 at a position corresponding to the protection element 4. The width ws of the third support portion 53 is wider than the width wp of the protection element 4. Both end portions of the protection element 4 in the horizontal direction can be arranged within the width ws of the third support portion 53. Both end portions of the third support portion 53 in the horizontal direction can be arranged outside both end portions of the protection element 4 in the horizontal direction. However, the arrangement relationship between the third support portion 53 and the protection element 4 is not limited to the above description.

[0069] The third support portion 53 can protect the protection element 4 in response to an external force acting on the protection circuit module 20. The third support portion 53 can prevent damage to the protection element 4. The third support portion 53 can prevent an external force acting on the protection circuit module 20 from being transmitted to the protection element 4. The third support portion 53 can prevent an external force acting on the substrate 30 from being transmitted to the protection element 4. However, the function of the third support portion 53 is not limited to the above description.

[0070] The partial support portion 50 according to the exemplary embodiment can be in direct contact with the surface of the substrate 30. The partial support portion 50 can be arranged to contact the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. When an external force acts on the substrate 30, the surface of the substrate 30 in contact with the partial support portion 50 is not bent.

[0071] The partial support portion 50 can efficiently disperse an external force acting on the protection circuit module 20. When an external force acts on the substrate 30, the separation space between the partial support portions 50 can disperse an external force acting on the protection circuit module 20. For example, the separated space between the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 and / or the separated space between the second support portion 52 and the third support portion 53 can disperse an external force acting on the protection circuit module 20. However, the function of the partial support portion 50 is not limited to the above description. For example, the partial support portion 50 can protect the substrate 30 from an external force acting on the protection circuit module 20 from above the battery pack 1. For example, the partial support portion 50 can protect the protection element 4 from an external force acting on the protection circuit module 20 from above the battery pack 1.

[0072] The partial support portion 50 according to an exemplary embodiment can expose at least a part of the substrate 30. The partial support portion 50 can expose at least a part of the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. At least a part of the second surface 32 of the substrate 30 can be exposed between the spaced-apart spaces of the partial support portions 50. However, the partial support portion 50 does not expose the substrate 30.

[0073] On the other hand, the support plate 5 does not necessarily have to expose the substrate 30. Hereinafter, embodiments in which the partial support portion 50 does not expose the substrate 30 will be described.

[0074] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the step structure 500 of the support plate 5 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0075] The support plate 5 according to an exemplary embodiment can have a step structure 500. The partial support portion 50 can have a step structure 500. The partial support portion 50 can have a step structure 500 that is recessed in the direction of the substrate 30. The direction of the substrate 30 is also the direction toward the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. The step structure 500 can be disposed between the partial support portions 50. The step structure 500 can be disposed between the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52. The step structure 500 can be disposed between the first support portion 51 and the third support portion 53. The step structure 500 can be disposed between the third support portion 53 and the second support portion 52. The step structure 500 can connect the first support portion 51 and the third support portion 53. The step structure 500 can be formed at a level lower than the surface levels of the first support portion 51 and the third support portion 53. The step structure 500 can connect the third support portion 53 and the second support portion 52. The surface level of the step structure 500 can be formed at a level lower than the surface levels of the third support portion 53 and the second support portion 52. Here, the surface level is also the distance by which the upper surface is separated from the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. However, the specific shape of the step structure 500 is not limited to the above description. For example, the step structure 500 can have a multi-step structure. That is, the step structure 500 can have a plurality of surface levels.

[0076] The support plate 5 having the step structure 500 does not expose the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. The second surface 32 of the substrate 30 is also the surface of the substrate 30 on which the support plate 5 is disposed. However, even if the support plate 5 has the step structure 500, the second surface 32 of the substrate 30 may be exposed. For example, a case where the step structure 500 is provided between the respective partial support portions 50 and a case where it is not provided may be combined. In that case, the partial support portions 50 that do not have the step structure 500 and are spaced apart from each other may expose the second surface 32 of the substrate 30.

[0077] The step structure 500 can prevent an excessive force from acting on the substrate 30 when an external force is applied to the protection circuit module 20. The step structure 500 can prevent an excessive force from acting on the protection element 4 when an external force is applied to the protection circuit module 20. The step structure 500 can serve to disperse the force applied to the substrate 30. The step structure 500 is also a portion where the force applied to the substrate 30 is concentrated. The step structure 500 can serve to prevent the force from being concentrated on the protection element 4. However, the function of the step structure 500 is not limited to the above description.

[0078] Hereinafter, embodiments different from the embodiment of the battery pack 1 exemplarily described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8 will be described. Redundant descriptions will be omitted, and the description will focus on the differences.

[0079] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a battery pack 1' according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a process of disposing the protection circuit module 20' on the upper part of the battery cell 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a process of disposing the protection circuit module 20' on the upper part of the battery cell 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a state where the protection circuit module 20' is disposed on the upper part of the battery cell 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 12, a battery module according to an exemplary embodiment may include a protection circuit module 20'. The protection circuit module 20' may include a substrate 30 and a protection element 4. The protection element 4 may be disposed on the substrate 30. The protection element 4 may be disposed on the surface of the substrate 30. The substrate 30 may include a first surface 31 to which a plurality of electrode tabs 11 are connected and a second surface 32 opposite to the first surface. The protection element 4 may be disposed on the second surface 32. Different from the protection element 4 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 8 and disposed on the first surface 31 of the substrate 30, the protection element 4 of the present embodiment may be disposed on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. That is, the protection element 4 may be disposed on a surface opposite to the surface of the substrate 30 on which the electrode tabs 11 are disposed. However, the position where the protection element 4 is disposed on the substrate 30 is merely an exemplary description and is not limited to the above description. For example, the protection element 4 may be disposed on both the first surface 31 and the second surface 32 of the substrate 30.

[0081] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a protection circuit module 20' according to an exemplary embodiment. The protection circuit module 20' shown in FIG. 13 may be different from the protection circuit module 20 shown in FIG. 6 in the direction in which the protection element 4 is disposed. FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a protection circuit module 20' according to an exemplary embodiment. The protection circuit module 20' illustrated in FIG. 14 may be different from the protection circuit module 20 shown in FIG. 7 in the direction in which the protection element 4 is disposed.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 14, the protection element 4 according to an exemplary embodiment may be disposed on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. A partial support portion 50 included in the support plate 5 may be disposed on the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. The second surface 32 is also the surface of the substrate 30 on which an electrode accommodating portion 300 of the substrate 30 connected to the electrode tabs 11 is disposed. The second surface 32 is also the surface of the substrate 30 facing the battery cell 10 when the support plate 5 is disposed on the upper portion of the battery cell 10. However, the arrangements of the support plate 5, the protection element 4, and the electrode accommodating portion 300 are not limited to the above description.

[0083] According to an exemplary embodiment, the protection element 4 and the support plate 5 can be arranged on the same surface on the surface of the substrate 30. The protection element 4 and the support plate 5 can be arranged on the second surface of the substrate 30. On the surface of the support plate 5, the surface opposite to the surface arranged on the substrate 30 can be arranged on the upper part of the battery cell 10. The support plate 5 can be interposed between the substrate 30 and the upper surface of the battery cell 10. When the protection element 4 is arranged on the same surface as the support plate 5 among the surfaces of the substrate 30, the protection element 4 is not exposed outside the protection circuit module 20'. That is, the protection element 4 is not exposed outside the battery pack 1'. Referring to FIG. 12, an aspect in which the protection element 4 is not exposed outside the battery pack 1' can be confirmed. When the protection element 4 is not exposed outside the battery pack 1', damage to the protection element 4 can be prevented. However, the arrangement of the protection element 4 is not limited to the above description.

[0084] Again, referring to FIG. 13, according to an exemplary embodiment, the thickness ts of the support plate 5 is thicker than the thickness tp of the protection element 4. The thickness ts of the partial support portion 50 is thicker than the thickness tp of the protection element 4. The thickness ts1 of the first support portion 51 and the thickness ts2 of the second support portion 52 are thicker than the thickness tp of the protection element 4. However, the thickness tp of the protection element 4 is not limited to the above description.

[0085] Again, referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, according to an exemplary embodiment, the protection element 4 does not directly contact the upper part of the battery cell 10. The thickness ts of the support plate 5 can be formed thicker than the thickness tp of the protection element 4 so that the protection element 4 does not directly contact the upper part of the battery cell 10. When the protection element 4 does not directly contact the upper part of the battery cell 10, damage to the protection element 4 can be prevented when an external force acts on the protection circuit module 20.

[0086] FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the step structure 500 of the support plate 5 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 15, the partial support portion 50 according to an exemplary embodiment may have a stepped structure 500. The partial support portion 50 may have the stepped structure 500 in the direction of the substrate 30. The first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 may have the stepped structure 500. The first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 may have the stepped structure 500 in the direction of the substrate 30. The direction of the substrate 30 is the direction toward the second surface 32 of the substrate 30. The stepped structure 500 may be formed at a level lower than the surface levels of the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52. However, the specific shape of the stepped structure 500 is not limited to the above description. For example, the stepped structure 500 may have a multi-step structure. That is, the stepped structure 500 may have a plurality of surface levels.

[0088] FIG. 16 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a reinforcing layer 60 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0089] The protection circuit module 20 according to an exemplary embodiment may include a reinforcing layer 60. The reinforcing layer 60 can perform a function of strengthening between the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52. The reinforcing layer 60 can perform a function of strengthening at least a part of the substrate 30. The strengthening may mean strengthening the ability to withstand external forces. The strengthening may mean strengthening the hardness and strength.

[0090] The reinforcing layer 60 according to an exemplary embodiment can protect the substrate 30. The reinforcing layer 60 may be disposed on top of the protection element 4 on the substrate 30. The reinforcing layer 60 can protect the protection element 4. The reinforcing layer 60 can be configured so that the protection element 4 is not exposed outside the substrate 30. The reinforcing layer 60 may include a protection coating 60. The reinforcing layer 60 may include a UV coating. However, the material and arrangement of the reinforcing layer 60 are not limited to the above description.

[0091] The reinforcing layer 60 can cover between the partial support portions 50. The reinforcing layer 60 can be interposed between the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52. The reinforcing layer 60 can cover the protection element 4 between the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52. The reinforcing layer 60 can be disposed on the step structure 500. However, the functions and roles of the reinforcing layer 60 are not limited to the above description. For example, the reinforcing layer 60 can cover the upper surface of the support plate 5. For example, the reinforcing layer 60 can be partially formed between the first support portion 51 and the second support portion 52 to expose a part of the substrate 30.

[0092] The present invention has been described based on the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, but these are merely exemplary, and those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains will understand that various modifications and equivalent other embodiments are possible therefrom.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0093] 1 Battery pack 1’ Battery pack 10 Battery cell 11 Electrode tab 100 Connector 20 Protection circuit module 20’ Protection circuit module 30 Substrate 31 First surface 32 Second surface 300 Electrode housing portion 4 Protection element 5 Support plate 50 Partial support portion 500 Step structure 51 First support portion 52 Second support portion 53 Third support portion 60 Reinforcing layer

Claims

1. A battery cell extending in the vertical direction and including a plurality of electrode tabs, a substrate on which a protection element is disposed, fixed to the upper end of the battery cell, and electrically connected to the plurality of electrode tabs, and a support plate interposed between the battery cell and the substrate and configured to support the substrate. The support plate includes at least two or more partial support portions spaced apart in a horizontal direction intersecting a direction perpendicular to the substrate, a battery pack.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the substrate, the support plate, and the battery cell are sequentially arranged from top to bottom.

3. The substrate includes a first surface to which the plurality of electrode tabs are connected, and the support plate is disposed on a second surface opposite to the first surface. The battery pack according to claim 2.

4. A first support portion and a second support portion included in the partial support portion are respectively disposed at both ends of the substrate in the horizontal direction. The battery pack according to claim 3.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, wherein the protection element is disposed on the second surface of the substrate.

6. The thicknesses of the first support portion and the second support portion are thicker than the thickness of the protection element. The battery pack according to claim 5.

7. The first support portion and the second support portion have a step recessed in a direction toward the substrate. The battery pack according to claim 6.

8. The battery pack according to claim 4, wherein the protection element is disposed on the first surface of the substrate.

9. The partial support portion includes a third support portion formed wider than a horizontal width of the protection element at a position corresponding to the protection element with the substrate interposed therebetween. The battery pack according to claim 5.

10. The partial support portion has a step recessed in a direction toward the substrate. The battery pack according to claim 9.

Images