Secondary battery

Abstract

To provide a secondary battery capable of electrical connection even for high density integration.SOLUTION: A secondary battery 1000 includes a plurality of secondary battery modules 100. Each of the plurality of secondary battery modules includes: a plurality of layers in which a redox reaction occurs and redox reaction occurs in the plurality of layers stacked in a vertical direction, the plurality of layers being vertically stacked; and a pair of bus bars 120a and 120b that electrically connects the plurality of layers. The plurality of secondary battery modules are densely disposed in a horizontal direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a secondary battery, and more particularly to a secondary battery that is charged and discharged by oxidation-reduction of metal ions dissolved in an electrolyte. [Background technology]

[0002] Unlike existing secondary batteries, redox batteries are electrochemical storage devices that store electrical energy as the chemical energy of an electrolyte solution through a charging and discharging system in which the active material in the electrolyte undergoes oxidation and reduction. Conventional redox flow batteries operate by continuously circulating electrolyte from a tank through a stack using a pump, causing an electrochemical reaction in the stack. While redox flow batteries have space limitations and design difficulties due to the tank and pump, the inventors of the present invention developed a redox secondary battery that eliminates the tank and pump. However, it has low energy density and issues with volume and weight, requiring high-density integration to minimize the size and weight of the secondary battery. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] An object of the present invention is to provide a secondary battery module that can be integrated at high density.

[0004] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a secondary battery that can be electrically connected even when highly densely integrated.

[0005] The objects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other objects not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve the above object, a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of layers in which a redox reaction occurs and which are stacked in a vertical direction, and a pair of bus bars that electrically connect the plurality of layers, each of the plurality of layers including an anode in which a first semi-reaction occurs and a cathode in which a second semi-reaction occurs, and the anodes and cathodes of the layers are arranged in a vertical direction.

[0007] To achieve the above object, a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of secondary battery modules, each of which includes a plurality of layers in which an oxidation-reduction reaction occurs and which are stacked vertically, and a pair of bus bars that electrically connect the layers, and the plurality of secondary battery modules are arranged densely in the horizontal direction.

[0008] Other specific details of the embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The secondary battery of the present invention has one or more of the following effects.

[0010] First, it has an advantage of simplifying the secondary battery module and allowing for dense horizontal packing and vertical stacking.

[0011] Second, it has the advantage of simplifying the electrical connection of secondary battery modules and enabling high-density integration.

[0012] Third, there is an advantage that secondary batteries can be densely packed and yet are easy to install and manage.

[0013] Fourth, there is an advantage that the temperature is stable even when the secondary batteries are densely packed.

[0014] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned above can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is an exploded perspective view of layers of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of a layer of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5] 1 is a partial perspective view of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 7] 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of a secondary battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram illustrating a plurality of secondary battery modules arranged in a horizontal direction according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] 1 is a diagram illustrating a plurality of secondary battery modules arranged in a horizontal direction according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] 1 is a diagram illustrating a plurality of secondary battery modules stacked vertically according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 12] 1 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 13] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of use of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16]10A and 10B are diagrams showing a structure relating to a handle according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 21] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 22] 1 is an exemplary view illustrating a process of transferring a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 23] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a charging system including a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 31] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 32] 10 is a diagram illustrating a schematic structure of a plurality of secondary battery modules according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 33] 10 is a diagram illustrating a schematic structure of a plurality of secondary battery modules according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 34] 10 is a diagram illustrating a schematic structure of a plurality of secondary battery modules according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 35] 10 is a diagram illustrating a schematic structure of a plurality of secondary battery modules according to still another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 36] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 37] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 38] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 39] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 40] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 41] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 42] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a secondary battery according to still another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The advantages and features of the present invention, as well as methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the following detailed embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and may be embodied in various different forms. However, the present embodiments are provided to complete the disclosure of the present invention and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. The same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout the specification.

[0017] Although terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, it is understood that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another, and unless otherwise specified, a first component may also be a second component.

[0018] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, each element may be singular or plural.

[0019] Hereinafter, when an arbitrary structure is arranged "on top (or bottom)" of a component or "above (or below)" a component, it means that the arbitrary structure is not only arranged in contact with the upper surface (or lower surface) of the component, but also that other structures may be interposed between the component and the arbitrary structure arranged above (or below) the component.

[0020] Furthermore, when a component is described as being "coupled," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the components may be directly coupled or connected to each other, but that other components may be "intervening" between the components, or that each component may be "coupled," "coupled," or "connected" via other components.

[0021] As used herein, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Terms such as "comprise" or "include" in this application should not be interpreted as including all of the multiple components or multiple steps described in the specification, but should be interpreted as meaning that some of the components or some of the steps may not be included, or that additional components or steps may be included.

[0022] Throughout the specification, unless otherwise specified, "A and / or B" means A, B or A and B, and "C to D" means C or more and D or less.

[0023] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings to explain a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of layers of a secondary battery according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of layers of a secondary battery according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] The layer 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention stores or releases electrical energy by oxidation-reduction reaction of a redox couple dissolved in an electrolyte. The layer 10 has a low rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0026] The layer 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an anode 12 where a first half-reaction occurs, a cathode 13 where a second half-reaction occurs, a separation membrane 19 separating the anode 12 and the cathode 13, a frame 11 that is divided into two spaces by the separation membrane 19 and that houses the anode 12 and the cathode 13, an anode current collector 14 electrically connected to the anode 12, and a cathode current collector 15 electrically connected to the cathode 13.

[0027] The anode 12 includes an electrolyte in which an anode redox couple is dissolved, and may further include a conductive material such as carbon felt. The anode redox couple may be implemented using a material including at least one of vanadium (V), zinc (Zn), bromine (Br), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), titanium (Ti), iron (Fe), cerium (Ce), and cobalt (Co). In this embodiment, V is used. 2+ / V 3+ The electrolyte is a redox couple. The electrolyte may be an acidic aqueous solution that conducts current by ionization, and preferably contains sulfuric acid. The electrolyte in this embodiment can be prepared by dissolving VOSO4 (vanadylsulfate) or VO5 (vanadium pentoxide) in an H2SO4 aqueous solution.

[0028] The anode 12 undergoes a first half-reaction, which is as follows, where → indicates the discharge reaction direction and ← indicates the charge reaction direction:

[0029] V 2+ ←→V 3+ +e -

[0030] During discharge, the divalent vanadium ions are oxidized to trivalent vanadium ions, and during charge, the trivalent vanadium ions are reduced to divalent vanadium ions.

[0031] The anode 12 may further include a solid electrode made of a carbon-based material such as carbon or graphite felt, carbon fiber cloth, carbon black, graphite powder, or graphene. The solid electrode may be formed into a porous rectangular parallelepiped shape and impregnated with the electrolyte, or may be mixed with the electrolyte in the form of powder, felt, pellet, or the like.

[0032] The anode 12 is surrounded by a frame 11, an anode current collector 14 (or bipolar plate 17), and a separator 19. The anode 12 is electrically connected to the anode current collector 14, so that electrons move to the anode current collector 14 during discharge, and electrons from the anode current collector 14 move to the anode 12 during charge. The anode 12 is in contact with the separator 19, and hydrogen cations (protons) move through the separator 19.

[0033] The cathode 13 includes an electrolyte in which a cathode redox couple is dissolved, and may further include a conductive material such as carbon felt. The cathode redox couple may be implemented using a material including at least one of vanadium (V), zinc (Zn), bromine (Br), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), titanium (Ti), iron (Fe), cerium (Ce), and cobalt (Co). In this embodiment, V is used. 4+ / V 5+ The electrolyte is a redox couple. The electrolyte may be an acidic aqueous solution that conducts current by ionization, and preferably contains sulfuric acid. The electrolyte in this embodiment can be prepared by dissolving VOSO4 (vanadylsulfate) or VO5 (vanadium pentoxide) in an H2SO4 aqueous solution.

[0034] The second half-reaction occurs at the cathode 13. The second half-reaction is as follows, where → indicates the discharge reaction direction and ← indicates the charge reaction direction.

[0035] V 5+ +e - ←→V 4+

[0036] During discharge, the pentavalent vanadium ions are reduced to tetravalent vanadium ions, and during charge, the tetravalent vanadium ions are oxidized to pentavalent vanadium ions.

[0037] The cathode 13 may further include a solid electrode made of a carbon-based material such as carbon or graphite felt, carbon fiber cloth, carbon black, graphite powder, or graphene. The solid electrode may be formed in the shape of a porous rectangular parallelepiped and impregnated with the electrolyte, or may be mixed with the electrolyte in the form of powder, felt, pellet, or the like.

[0038] The cathode 13 is surrounded by a frame 11, a cathode current collector 15 (or bipolar plate 17), and a separator 19. The cathode 13 is electrically connected to the cathode current collector 15, so that electrons move to the cathode current collector 15 during charging, and electrons from the cathode current collector 15 move to the cathode 13 during discharging. The cathode 13 is in contact with the separator 19, and hydrogen cations (protons) move through the separator 19.

[0039] 2, the anode 12 and the cathode 13 are arranged in a vertical direction. In one layer 10, the anode 12 may be arranged on the upper side and the cathode 13 on the lower side, or the cathode 13 may be arranged on the upper side and the anode 12 on the lower side.

[0040] The frame 11 is formed as a hollow hexahedron. The frame 11 is preferably a low rectangular parallelepiped with openings on the top and bottom. Depending on the embodiment, the frame 11 may be formed as a polyhedron of various shapes. The hollow space of the frame 11 is divided into two spaces by the separation membrane 19. The frame 11 supports the separation membrane 19.

[0041] The separator 19 is disposed inside the frame 11 to separate the anode 12 and the cathode 13, allowing hydrogen cations (protons) to move between them. The separator 19 is disposed inside the frame 11 to divide the frame 11 into two spaces, each housing the anode 12 and the cathode 13. The separator 19 is disposed between the anode current collector 14 and the cathode current collector 15. The edges of the separator 19 are attached to the frame 11. During discharge, hydrogen cations move from the anode 12 to the cathode 13 through the separator 19, and during charge, they move from the cathode 13 to the anode 12 through the separator 19.

[0042] Separation membrane 19 may include perfluorinated ionomers, partially fluorinated polymers, and non-fluorinated hydrocarbons. Separation membrane 19 may be formed of or include Nafion®, Flemion®, NEOSEPTA-F®, or Gore Select®.

[0043] The separation membrane 19 is disposed at the center of the frame 11 in the vertical direction (the stacking direction of the multiple layers 10). The separation membrane 19 is bonded to and fixed to the frame 11.

[0044] The anode current collector 14 is disposed on one side of the frame 11 and, together with the frame 11 and the separator 19, forms a space in which the anode 12 is housed. The anode current collector 14 is electrically connected to the anode 12, and electrons move through the anode current collector 14 during charging and discharging, allowing current to flow. The anode current collector 14 acts as a negative electrode from which electrons are released during discharging, and as a positive electrode to which electrons are injected during charging.

[0045] The anode current collector 14 is formed of a highly electrically conductive metal, such as copper or aluminum. The anode current collector 14 may be formed as a flexible thin film or a rigid plate. The anode current collector 14 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate, with a portion of the anode current collector 14 protruding laterally from the layer 10.

[0046] A bipolar plate 17 may be provided between the anode current collector 14 and the anode 12. The bipolar plate 17 is made of a material such as graphite, carbon, or carbon plastic, and has high electrical conductivity and high acid resistance. The bipolar plate 17 is electrically connected to the anode current collector 14 and the anode 12, allowing electrons to be transferred between the anode current collector 14 and the anode 12, but preventing the anode current collector 14 from being oxidized by the electrolyte of the anode 12. The bipolar plate 17 may be formed by coating the anode current collector 14.

[0047] The cathode current collector 15 is disposed on one side of the frame 11 and, together with the frame 11 and the separator 19, forms a space in which the cathode 13 is housed. The cathode current collector 15 is electrically connected to the cathode 13, and electrons move through the cathode current collector 15 to allow current to flow during charging and discharging. The cathode current collector 15 acts as a positive electrode into which electrons flow during discharging, and as a negative electrode from which electrons are released during charging.

[0048] The cathode current collector 15 is formed of a metal with high electrical conductivity, such as copper or aluminum. The cathode current collector 15 may be formed of a flexible thin film or a rigid plate. The cathode current collector 15 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate, with a portion of the cathode current collector 15 protruding laterally from the layer 10.

[0049] A bipolar plate 17 may be provided between the cathode current collector 15 and the cathode 13. The bipolar plate 17 is made of a material such as graphite, carbon, or carbon plastic, and has high electrical conductivity and high acid resistance. The bipolar plate 17 is electrically connected to the cathode current collector 15 and the cathode 13, allowing electrons to transfer between the cathode current collector 15 and the cathode 13, but preventing the cathode current collector 15 from being oxidized by the electrolyte of the cathode 13. The bipolar plate 17 may be formed by coating the cathode current collector 15.

[0050] 2, anode current collector 14 and cathode current collector 15 each partially protrude beyond the side of layer 10, but protrude in opposite directions. That is, anode current collector 14 partially protrudes beyond one side of layer 10, and cathode current collector 15 partially protrudes beyond the side of layer 10 opposite the protruding side of anode current collector 14.

[0051] 3 and 4 are perspective views of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a partial perspective view of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] A secondary battery module 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of layers 10 in which an oxidation-reduction reaction occurs and which are stacked vertically, a pair of bus bars 120 that electrically connect the plurality of layers 10, an upper end plate 130 disposed at the upper ends of the plurality of layers 10, and a lower end plate 140 disposed at the lower ends of the plurality of layers 10.

[0053] The multiple layers 10 are stacked in a vertical direction (vertical direction, height direction, or gravity direction). The secondary battery module 100 according to the present invention is relatively resistant to pressure applied in the stacking direction (vertical direction), but is weak against pressure applied in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction (horizontal direction). Therefore, the secondary battery module 100 is arranged so that the stacking direction of the multiple layers 10 is vertical. Furthermore, by arranging in this direction, each secondary battery module 100 can be easily pulled out during maintenance. The multiple layers 10 stacked in the vertical direction are preferably in the shape of a tall rectangular parallelepiped.

[0054] An upper end plate 130 and a lower end plate 140 are arranged at both ends in the stacking direction (vertical direction) of the stacked multiple layers 10. The upper end plate 130 is arranged at the upper end of the stacked multiple layers 10, and the lower end plate 140 is arranged at the lower end of the stacked multiple layers 10. A pair of bus bars 120 is arranged on both side surfaces of the stacked multiple layers 10.

[0055] The anode current collectors 14 and cathode current collectors 15 are arranged one by one between the multiple layers 10. That is, one anode current collector 14 is arranged between a pair of adjacent anodes 12, and one cathode current collector 15 is arranged between a pair of adjacent cathodes 13.

[0056] 6 , the anode 12 of any one of the multiple layers 10 is stacked with the anode 12 of another adjacent layer 10, and the cathode 13 of another layer 10 is stacked with the cathode 13 of yet another adjacent layer 10. Thus, adjacent layers 10 share one anode current collector 14 or one cathode current collector 15. Any one of the multiple anode current collectors 14 is disposed between a pair of adjacently arranged anodes 12, and any one of the multiple cathode current collectors 15 is disposed between a pair of adjacently arranged cathodes 13.

[0057] Referring to Figure 6, the multiple layers 10 are stacked so that the anode 12 of the first battery cell 10a is adjacent to the anode 12 of the second battery cell 10b via the anode current collector 14, and the cathode 13 of the second battery cell 10b is adjacent to the cathode 13 of the third battery cell 10c via the cathode current collector 15.

[0058] 5, the plurality of anode current collectors 14 and the plurality of cathode current collectors 15 are arranged to protrude from opposite side surfaces of the plurality of layers 10. That is, the plurality of anode current collectors 14 are arranged with a portion protruding from one side surface of the plurality of layers 10, and the plurality of cathode current collectors 15 are arranged with a portion protruding from the surface opposite to the side surface of the plurality of layers 10 (the side surface from which the plurality of anode current collectors 14 protrude).

[0059] Each of the pair of bus bars 120 is formed long in the vertical direction (the stacking direction of the multiple layers 10) and has the shape of a bar or plate that is long in one direction. Each of the pair of bus bars 120 is arranged with its length direction aligned vertically.

[0060] The height of the bus bars 120 is greater than the height of the stacked layers 10. Each of the pair of bus bars 120 has an upper end positioned higher than the upper ends of the layers 10 and a lower end positioned lower than the lower ends of the layers 10. Each of the pair of bus bars 120 may have an upper end in contact with the upper end plate 130 and a lower end in contact with the lower end plate 140. Insulators may be disposed between the pair of bus bars 120 and the upper end plate 130 and / or between the pair of bus bars 120 and the lower end plate 140.

[0061] The pair of bus bars 120 are arranged on the sides of the multiple layers 10 to electrically connect the multiple layers 10. The bus bars 120 in this embodiment connect the multiple layers 10 in parallel. Insulators may be arranged between the pair of bus bars 120 and the sides of the multiple layers 10.

[0062] A pair of bus bars 120 are arranged one on each of the opposing side surfaces of the plurality of layers 10. One of the pair of bus bars 120 is arranged on one side surface of the plurality of layers 10, and the other bus bar 120 is arranged on the opposite side surface of the plurality of layers 10 from the side surface on which one of the bus bars 120 is arranged.

[0063] The pair of bus bars 120 can bundle the multiple layers 10. The bus bars 120 can be coupled to the upper end plate 130 and the lower end plate 140 to bundle the multiple layers 10.

[0064] The pair of bus bars 120 includes a first bus bar 120a that electrically connects the multiple anode current collectors 14 and a second bus bar 120b that electrically connects the multiple cathode current collectors 15. The first bus bar 120a is disposed on one side of the multiple layers 10, and the second bus bar 120b is disposed on the side of the multiple layers 10 opposite to the side on which the first bus bar 120a is disposed.

[0065] A portion of each of the anode current collectors 14 protruding from the side surfaces of the layers 10 is bent and connected to a first bus bar 120a, and a portion of each of the cathode current collectors 15 protruding from the side surfaces of the layers 10 is bent and connected to a second bus bar 120b.

[0066] The upper end plate 130 and the lower end plate 140 are disposed at both ends of the stacked layers 10 in the stacking direction, i.e., at the upper and lower ends, respectively. Each of the upper end plate 130 and the lower end plate 140 has a low rectangular parallelepiped shape, and may have various three-dimensional shapes in which the upper and lower surfaces are parallel to each other depending on the embodiment. Each of the upper end plate 130 and the lower end plate 140 may be formed from a high-strength inorganic compound material (e.g., cement) or an organic compound material (e.g., engineering plastic), or may be a mixture of an insulating-coated metal and cement.

[0067] The upper end plate 130 and the lower end plate 140 protect the upper and lower ends of the multiple layers 10 and, together with a fastener, pressurize and fasten the multiple layers 10. In this embodiment, the fastener is a bus bar 120, but in some embodiments, the fastener may be a band or tie that surrounds and ties the upper end plate 130, the multiple layers 10, and the lower end plate 140.

[0068] The upper end plate 130 and / or the lower end plate 140 may protrude laterally beyond the multiple layers 10. Since the multiple secondary battery modules 100 are arranged densely in the horizontal direction, the upper end plate 130 and / or the lower end plate 140 may be in close contact with the upper end plate 130 and / or the lower end plate 140 of an adjacent secondary battery module 100 so that the multiple laterally adjacent layers 10 do not come into close contact with each other and are not pressed against each other. In the multiple secondary battery modules 100 arranged densely in the horizontal direction, the adjacent upper end plates 130 and / or the lower end plates 140 may be in close contact with each other, and the multiple laterally adjacent layers 10 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0069] The secondary battery module 100 is actually a rectangular parallelepiped shape that is long in the vertical direction, and the stacking direction of the layers 10 of the secondary battery module 100 is the height direction.

[0070] FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of a secondary battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the anode 12 of any one of the layers 10 is stacked with the cathode 13 of another adjacent layer 10. Current collectors 14, 15 are disposed between the adjacent anode 12 and cathode 13.

[0072] 7, the multiple layers 10 are stacked such that the anode 12 of the first battery cell 10a is adjacent to the cathode 13 of the second battery cell 10b with current collectors 14 and 15 interposed therebetween, and the anode 12 of the second battery cell 10b is adjacent to the cathode 13 of the third battery cell 10c with current collectors 14 and 15 interposed therebetween. In this case, the multiple layers 10 are connected in series.

[0073] 8 and 9 are diagrams showing a plurality of secondary battery modules arranged horizontally according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] A secondary battery 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of secondary battery modules 100 arranged laterally and closely packed together.

[0075] The secondary battery 1000 refers to a secondary battery pack or an energy storage system (ESS) consisting of a plurality of secondary battery modules 100.

[0076] The plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are arranged densely in the horizontal direction. The secondary battery module 100 according to the present invention generates almost no heat, does not require a fluid flow path for cooling, and has a simple structure. Therefore, the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 may be arranged densely in the horizontal direction.

[0077] The plurality of secondary battery modules 100 may be electrically connected by contacting one of the pairs of bus bars 120 of each pair of adjacent secondary battery modules 100. Referring to Fig. 8, the first bus bar 120a of one secondary battery module 100 of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 may be electrically connected by contacting the second bus bar 120b of the adjacent secondary battery module 100. In this case, the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are connected in series.

[0078] In the plurality of secondary battery modules 100, one of the pairs of bus bars 120 of each adjacent pair of secondary battery modules 100 may be connected by a common bus bar 129. Referring to FIG. 9 , the first bus bar 120a of one of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 and the second bus bar 120b of the adjacent secondary battery module 100 are electrically connected by the common bus bar 129.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 10, secondary battery modules 100 densely packed in the horizontal direction constitute a secondary battery 1000.

[0080] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a plurality of secondary battery modules stacked vertically according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for energy storage devices for ships, and when used on a ship, it is necessary to arrange a suitable secondary battery module 100 therein. The secondary battery 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes a container 9 that houses a plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The container 9 is a standardized shipping container, which makes it easy to use a container crane at a port when loading or unloading the energy storage device onto or from a ship.

[0082] When a plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are accommodated in a ship container 9, the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are preferably arranged densely in the horizontal direction, and the plurality of horizontally densely arranged secondary battery modules 100 are preferably stacked vertically with other plurality of horizontally densely arranged secondary battery modules 100. Even when stacked vertically, the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 can withstand pressure relatively well. Therefore, when accommodated in a tall case such as a ship container 9, the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are preferably stacked vertically.

[0083] The plurality of secondary battery modules 100 arranged horizontally may be housed in a housing (or case), and the plurality of housings (or cases) may be stacked. Furthermore, a plate supporting the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 in each layer may be provided between each layer of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The plurality of secondary battery modules 100 may be slid horizontally by layer to be housed in or removed from a shipping container 9 or case.

[0084] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of how the secondary battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention is used.

[0085] The secondary battery module 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes a handle 170 connected to the upper end plate 130. The handle 170 is detachably connected to the upper end plate 130. The handle 170 allows a user to grasp the handle 170 to vertically pull out or retract the secondary battery module 100. The upper end plate 130 may be provided with a handle coupling portion 135 to which the handle 170 is detachably connected.

[0086] 13 , it may be necessary to pull out the secondary battery module 100 for maintenance of the secondary battery 1000. A user connects the handle 170 to the secondary battery module 100 requiring maintenance. The user connects the handle 170 to the handle coupling portion 135 of the upper end plate 130, grasps the handle 170, and pulls it upward to pull out the secondary battery module 100. Depending on the embodiment, the handle 170 may be pulled up using a crane or the like.

[0087] When further storing the secondary battery module 100, the user grasps the handle 170 and moves it downward to store the secondary battery module 100. After storing the secondary battery module 100, the user separates the handle 170 from the handle coupling portion 135 of the upper end plate 130.

[0088] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] A secondary battery module 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention further includes a tie 180 surrounding and connecting the plurality of layers 10, the upper end plate 130, and the lower end plate 140.

[0090] The tie 180 is formed in a ring shape and is disposed so as to surround both side surfaces and the top surface of the upper end plate 130, both side surfaces of the plurality of layers 10, and both side surfaces and the bottom surface of the lower end plate 140. The tie 180 is made of a material such as PP (polypropylene) or PET (polyethylen terephthalate), which has low elasticity, is non-conductive, and has excellent heat and chemical resistance.

[0091] In this embodiment, the bundling means for bundling the multiple layers 10, the upper end plate 130, and the lower end plate 140 is the tie 180. The tie 180 applies pressure to the multiple layers 10, the upper end plate 130, and the lower end plate 140 to bundling them together.

[0092] The tie 180 is arranged on a side surface of the plurality of layers 10 on which the pair of bus bars 120 is not arranged. A plurality of ties 180 may be provided.

[0093] The handle 170 in this embodiment may be detachably connected to the tie 180. Depending on the embodiment, the foldable handle 170 may be provided on the top of the tie 180, or a portion of the upper side of the tie 180 may serve as the handle 170.

[0094] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to still another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 16 is a view showing a structure of a handle according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] A secondary battery module 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a negative electrode upper end plate 230a and a negative electrode lower end plate 240a electrically connected to a first bus bar 120a, and a positive electrode upper end plate 230b and a positive electrode lower end plate 240b connected to a second bus bar 120b. The handle 270 in this embodiment shorts out the secondary battery module 100 when connected.

[0096] As described above, the first bus bar 120a and the second bus bar 120b are connected to the anode current collector 14 and the cathode current collector 15. In this embodiment, the negative electrode upper end plate 230a and the negative electrode lower end plate 240a serve as negative electrode terminals during discharge of the secondary battery module 100 and as positive electrode terminals during charge. The positive electrode upper end plate 230b and the positive electrode lower end plate 240b serve as positive electrode terminals during discharge and as negative electrode terminals during charge.

[0097] Handle 270 in this embodiment includes body 271 made of a conductive material (e.g., metal) and coating material 272, which is an insulating material, applied to body 271. Coating material 272 is applied to the part that is gripped by the user to prevent the user from getting an electric shock. For safety reasons, elements such as a switch, resistor, and capacitor may be included inside body 271 of handle 270.

[0098] The portions of the handle 270 that come into contact with the negative electrode upper end plate 230a and the positive electrode upper end plate 230b are not coated with the coating material 272, and when the handle 270 is connected to the negative electrode upper end plate 230a and the positive electrode upper end plate 230b, the negative electrode upper end plate 230a and the positive electrode upper end plate 230b are electrically connected to each other, thereby short-circuiting the secondary battery module 100. As a result, even if the secondary battery module 100 is in a charged state, when the handle 270 is connected, the secondary battery module 100 discharges, allowing the user to safely pull out the secondary battery module 100.

[0099] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] A secondary battery module 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a first bus bar 320a, a second bus bar 320b, a negative electrode connection port 360a formed by extending from the first bus bar 320a, and a positive electrode connection port 360b formed by extending from the second bus bar 320b. A handle 370 in this embodiment shorts out the secondary battery module 100 when connected to the negative electrode connection port 360a and the positive electrode connection port 360b.

[0101] The first bus bar 320a and the second bus bar 320b are connected to the anode current collector 14 and the cathode current collector 15, and thus the negative electrode connection port 360a and the positive electrode connection port 360b are electrically connected to the anode current collector 14 and the cathode current collector 15 of the plurality of layers 10. The negative electrode connection port 360a serves as a negative electrode terminal when the secondary battery module 100 is discharged and as a positive electrode terminal when the secondary battery module 100 is charged. The positive electrode connection port 360b serves as a positive electrode terminal when the secondary battery module 100 is discharged and as a negative electrode terminal when the secondary battery module 100 is charged.

[0102] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] A secondary battery module 100 according to yet another embodiment of the present invention further includes guides 191 and 192 that slideably couple with adjacent secondary battery modules 100. The guides 191 and 192 couple adjacent secondary battery modules 100 to each other, allowing them to support each other and facilitating the removal and storage of the secondary battery modules 100. The length direction of the guides 191 and 192 is vertically disposed. The guides 191 and 192 may slideably couple with the guides 190 of adjacent secondary battery modules 100. The guides 191 and 192 may function as bus bars 120.

[0104] The guides 191, 192 in this embodiment may include recessed recesses 192 formed in the upper end plate 130 and the lower end plate 140, and protruding convex portions 191 disposed on the upper end plate 130, the plurality of layers 10, and the lower end plate 140. The convex portions 191 of the secondary battery modules 100 may be inserted into the concave portions 192 of the adjacent secondary battery modules 100, and may be slidably coupled to each other.

[0105] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a secondary battery module according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] The guides 191 and 192 in this embodiment may include a first guide 193 disposed on one side of the secondary battery module 100 and a second guide 194 disposed on the other side. The first guide 193 of one secondary battery module 100 may be slidably coupled to the second guide 194 of an adjacent secondary battery module 100. The first guide 193 and the second guide 194 may include rollers or balls.

[0107] First guide 193 and second guide 194 may be either second bus bar 120b or first bus bar 120a, or the other. In this embodiment, first guide 193 is first bus bar 120a, and second guide 194 is second bus bar 120b.

[0108] One of the pairs of bus bars 120 of each pair of adjacent secondary battery modules 100 is in contact with and electrically connected to each other, and the two connected bus bars 120 are formed to support each other. In this embodiment, the first bus bar 120a, which is the first guide 193, is electrically connected to the second bus bar 120b, which is the second guide 194, and are formed to support each other.

[0109] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] A secondary battery 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of secondary battery modules 100 arranged horizontally, and the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are arranged under a bottom 2 supporting an object to be charged 1 to which electrical energy stored in the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 is supplied.

[0111] The plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are arranged under a bottom 2 supporting an object to be charged 1 to be charged by the plurality of secondary battery modules 100. In this embodiment, the object to be charged 1 is a vehicle (electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid vehicle). The object to be charged 1 may be any of various power devices or transportation means that require charging using the electrical energy stored in the plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are arranged densely in a horizontal direction under the bottom 2 of a parking lot where the vehicle 1 is parked. If the bottom 2 is the ground, the ground is excavated and the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are buried therein. If the bottom 2 is each floor of a building, the secondary battery modules 100 are buried under or inside a slab. It is not necessary for all components of the secondary battery 1000 to be arranged under the bottom 2; a control module (such as a battery management system (BMS) or an energy management system (EMS)) may be arranged on the bottom 2.

[0112] The plurality of secondary battery modules 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention have a width (W) narrower than the wheel distance of the vehicle 1 to which the electric energy stored in the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 is supplied, that is, the vehicle 1 to be charged.

[0113] Preferably, the width (W) of the multiple secondary battery modules 100 may be narrower than the distance (L) between the inner sides of the tires on both sides of the vehicle so that the tires of the vehicle 1 are not placed above the multiple secondary battery modules 100.

[0114] Although the secondary battery module 100 is resistant to vertical pressure, the vehicle is very heavy, and in the case of an electric vehicle, the weight of the battery is particularly heavy. Therefore, in order to prevent the weight of the vehicle 1 from being transferred to the secondary battery module 100 as much as possible, the width (W) of the multiple secondary battery modules 100 is narrower than the wheel distance, and preferably narrower than the distance (L) between the inner sides of both tires.

[0115] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] A secondary battery 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of secondary battery modules 100 arranged laterally, a housing 1210 surrounding the sides and bottom of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100, and a cover 1220 covering the upper side of the housing 1210.

[0117] The housing 1210 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape with an open top and accommodates a plurality of secondary battery modules 100 therein. The housing 1210 insulates the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 from being heated or cooled by external influences and is waterproof to prevent water from penetrating into the plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The housing 1210 is based on a metal material and may further include a waterproof material, an insulating material, and / or a thermal insulating material.

[0118] The cover 1220 is detachably coupled to the housing 1210. The cover 1220 covers the multiple secondary battery modules 100. The cover 1220 is based on a metal material that allows for heat insulation and waterproofing, and may further include a waterproof material, an insulating material, and / or a heat insulating material. The cover 1220 may have an upper surface that protrudes from the bottom 2 or may be flush with the bottom 2. The protruding portion of the cover 1220 may function as a parking guide when parking the vehicle 1. The cover 1220 may house a control module 1110 that controls wiring and the multiple secondary battery modules 100. The control module 1110 may include a battery management system (BMS) or an energy management system (EMS), etc.

[0119] Depending on the embodiment, the cover 1220 can heat the object to be charged 1 by heat generation or a separate heating means when discharging the multiple secondary battery modules 100. A battery is housed in the bottom of the vehicle 1, which is the object to be charged, and since the efficiency of the battery decreases at low temperatures, it is preferable that the cover 1220 heats the bottom of the vehicle 1 so that the battery can be heated in a low-temperature environment.

[0120] Depending on the embodiment, a solar panel may be installed on the upper surface of the cover 1220. When the secondary battery 1000 is installed on an open ground, it is preferable to provide a solar panel that can absorb solar heat to prevent the temperature of the multiple secondary battery modules 100 from rising and charge the multiple secondary battery modules 100 when there is no vehicle 1 or the like above.

[0121] An elastic body may be provided on the bottom surface of the housing 1210 to provide elasticity to the plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The elastic body may facilitate the extraction and storage of the secondary battery modules 100 and eliminate height variations between the plurality of secondary battery modules 100.

[0122] Depending on the embodiment, the secondary battery 1000 may include a means for containing water in preparation for the risk of fire of a lithium ion battery installed in an object to be charged, such as the vehicle 1. In this embodiment, the anode 12 and the cathode 13 of the layer 10 contain water.

[0123] According to an embodiment, an anchor is provided on the bottom surface of the housing 1210, and the anchor engages with the lower end plate 140 of the secondary battery module 100 to align the position of the secondary battery module 100. In addition, an upper end plate 130 of the secondary battery module 100 is provided with a block-shaped structure that engages with each other, so that the heights of multiple secondary battery modules 100 can be aligned.

[0124] FIG. 22 is an exemplary view illustrating the transfer of a secondary battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] The housing 1210 may have a connecting portion 1211 at the upper end of its frame to which a steel wire 7 is connected. When initially installing the secondary battery 1000, a steel wire is connected to the connecting portion 1211 of the housing 1210 in which a plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are accommodated, and the housing 1210 can be moved by hanging the steel wire 7 on a crane.

[0126] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a charging system including a secondary battery according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0127] The charging system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a secondary battery 1000, a charger 1310 connected to an object to be charged such as a vehicle 1 and supplying the electrical energy of the secondary battery 1000 to the object to be charged such as the vehicle 1, and a power conversion system (PCS) 1320 that converts AC electricity supplied from an external power source (S) into DC electricity.

[0128] The power converter 1320 is connected to the charger 1310 , and the secondary battery 1000 is connected to the charger 1310 and receives DC electricity converted by the power converter 1320 via the charger 1310 .

[0129] The charger 1310 may be arranged so as to be able to rise and fall, and may rise and be arranged above the bottom 2 when connected to an object to be charged such as the vehicle 1, and may fall and be arranged below the bottom 2 when not connected to an object to be charged such as the vehicle 1. The power conversion device 1320 may also be arranged below the bottom 2.

[0130] The secondary battery 1000 includes a plurality of secondary battery modules 100 and a control module 1110 that controls the plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The control module 1110 may include a battery management system (BMS) and / or an energy management system (EMS). The control module 1110 may be disposed between the bottom 2 and the plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The control module 1110 may be disposed inside the cover 1220 described above.

[0131] 24 to 26 are diagrams showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0132] The secondary battery 1000 may further include a supporter 1230 provided inside the housing 1210 and supporting some sides of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The supporter 1230 may be slidably coupled to the plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The supporter 1230 may guide the secondary battery modules 100 so that the secondary battery modules 100 slide vertically when the secondary battery modules 100 are pulled out or stored. The secondary battery modules 100 may include a guide that slidably couples with the supporter 1230, and the bus bar 120 may serve as the guide. The supporter 1230 may include a roller or a ball.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 24, the supporter 1230 may be formed in the shape of an upright plate that is disposed between the heat sources of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100.

[0134] 25, the supporter 1230 may be formed in a columnar shape and disposed between a plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The columnar supporter 1230 may have its bottom inserted into the ground to function as a pile.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 26, the supporters 1230 may be arranged orthogonally like a checkerboard, with the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 disposed therebetween.

[0136] In this embodiment, the supporter 1230 prevents leakage of electrolyte from each of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 from spreading to other secondary battery modules 100. It also guides the secondary battery modules 100 to ensure that they are aligned when they are pulled out or retracted.

[0137] 27 to 31 are diagrams showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] The secondary battery 1000 in this embodiment may further include guide walls 1260 that support the side surfaces of at least some of the multiple secondary battery modules 100 .

[0139] The guide wall 1260 has a plate-like wall shape and is configured to be able to stand independently. The guide wall 1260 guides the placement position and supports the secondary battery modules 100 to prevent them from falling over when installing or removing them. A plurality of guide walls 1260 may be provided, and may be arranged in perpendicular directions. A pair of guide walls 1260 may be provided and arranged in the same direction. The guide wall 1260 is installed only when installing or removing the secondary battery modules 100, and the guide wall 1260 can be removed after the installation or removal work is completed. According to an embodiment, the guide wall 1260 may not be removed, but may be arranged on one side inside the housing 1210.

[0140] The inner bottom surface of the housing 1210 may be treated to have a low coefficient of friction so as to facilitate smooth movement of the guide wall 1260. Depending on the embodiment, the inner bottom surface of the housing 1210 may be provided with a base material (not shown) having a low coefficient of friction.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 28, the guide wall 1260 may include a pivotable wing member 1265 .

[0142] The wing member 1265 may be rotatably connected to the guide wall 1260 and disposed in a direction perpendicular to the guide wall 1260. The wing member 1265 may open from the guide wall 1260 to support at least one of the multiple secondary battery modules 100. The wing member 1265 may support a side of at least one of the multiple secondary battery modules 100 that is not supported by the guide wall 1260. The uppermost end of the wing member 1265 may be disposed higher than the uppermost ends of the multiple secondary battery modules 100.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 29, the guide wall 1260 may further include a hanging member 1266 that hangs on the upper end of the housing 1210.

[0144] When the guide wall 1260 is installed in the housing 1210, the hanging member 1266 hangs on the upper end of the housing 1210, allowing the guide wall 1260 to stand up, and can function as a handle for a jig or the like for moving the guide wall 1260.

[0145] When the hanging member 1266 hangs on the upper end of the housing 1210 , the uppermost end of the guide wall 1260 may be positioned higher than the uppermost ends of the multiple secondary battery modules 100 .

[0146] The secondary battery 1000 may further include a bottom member 1270 disposed at the bottom inside the housing 1210. The bottom member 1270 is elastic and can absorb shock when the secondary battery module 100 is disposed. The bottom member 1270 can absorb moisture such as electrolyte leaking from the multiple layers 10.

[0147] 30 , the bottom member 1270 may be movable up and down. The bottom member 1270 may rise at the bottom of the housing 1210 to move the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 and the guide wall 1260 to the top of the housing 1210.

[0148] 31, a bottom or bottom member 1270 of the housing 1210 may be provided with a guide protrusion 1280 for guiding the position at which each of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 is disposed. The guide protrusion 1280 protrudes upward from the bottom or bottom member 1270 of the housing 1210 to guide the position at which each of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 is disposed and adjust the spacing between them.

[0149] According to an embodiment, a guide protrusion protruding downward may be provided on the ceiling of the housing 1210 or on the cover 1220 covering the upper side of the housing 1210 to prevent each of the secondary battery modules 100 from tilting and adjust the spacing between them.

[0150] 32 to 35 are diagrams showing schematic structures of a plurality of secondary battery modules according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0151] The secondary battery 1000 in this embodiment includes a container 8 having an internal storage space (S) and a plurality of secondary battery modules 100 arranged horizontally in the internal storage space (S) of the container 8, and each of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 has a plurality of layers 10 stacked vertically.

[0152] The container 8 in this embodiment is a 20-foot half container. The container 8 has external dimensions of 6,058 mm in length, 2,438 mm in width, and 1,280 mm in height, and the storage space (S) is 13.4 m 3 The container 8 containing the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 may be placed on the ground, underground, or on a ship.

[0153] The plurality of secondary battery modules 100 are preferably arranged densely in the horizontal direction so as to fully fill the horizontal dimension of the storage space (S) of the container 8. The height of each of the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 is configured to be lower than the height of the storage space (S) of the container 8. A service space (V) is preferably formed above the plurality of secondary battery modules 100.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 33, the service space (V) may include a module bus bar 1160 that electrically connects multiple secondary battery modules 100, and a control module 1110 such as a battery management system (BMS) or an energy management system (EMS).

[0155] The service space (V) preferably has a structure that can collect and remove or discharge to the outside gases that may be generated in the multiple layers 10. The shortest path along which the gases generated in the layers 10 travel is preferably perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the multiple secondary battery modules 100.

[0156] Depending on the embodiment, a control module 1110 such as a master battery management system may be disposed in a portion of the area where the secondary battery module 100 may be disposed.

[0157] Depending on the embodiment, a container 8 accommodating a plurality of secondary battery modules 100 may be stacked on top of another container 8 accommodating a plurality of other secondary battery modules 100 .

[0158] 34 , the secondary battery 1000 may be placed under a bottom 2 that supports an object to be charged 1. A container 8 that houses a plurality of secondary battery modules 100 may be placed under the bottom 2.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 35, the secondary battery 1000 may further include a shielding member 8b disposed between the container 8 and the plurality of secondary battery modules 100.

[0160] The shielding member 8b can electrically insulate the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 from the container 8. The shielding member 8b can prevent foreign matter that has penetrated into the container 8 from the outside from flowing into the plurality of secondary battery modules 100. The shielding member 8b can absorb moisture such as electrolyte leaking from the plurality of layers 10. The shielding member 8b may be made of lime, cement, a foam-like polymer compound, or a polymer compound such as vinyl.

[0161] According to an embodiment, the shielding member 8b may completely fill the interior space of the container 8, such as the service space (V). For example, if the shielding member 8b is made of concrete, concrete may be poured into the container 8 after the container 8 is equipped with the plurality of secondary battery modules 100 and other control modules 1110. In this case, an injection port 8a through which the concrete is poured may be provided at the top of the container 8. The injection port 8a may also function as an outlet for discharging gas that may be generated in the plurality of layers 10.

[0162] In some embodiments, the shielding member 8b is saltwater, and the saltwater can fill the container 8 through the inlet 8a. A drain port (not shown) for draining the saltwater may be provided at the bottom of the container.

[0163] 36 to 41 are diagrams showing a schematic structure of a secondary battery according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0164] In this embodiment, some of the secondary battery modules 100 are charged while the other are discharged. The secondary battery 1000 in this embodiment includes a plurality of first battery modules 100a and a plurality of second battery modules 100b that discharge when the plurality of first battery modules 100a are charged.

[0165] The secondary battery module 100 generates heat during discharging and absorbs heat during charging. In order to stabilize the temperature, when some of the battery modules 100a are discharging, it is preferable that the other battery modules 100b are not discharging or are charging.

[0166] After only the first battery modules 100a are discharged and the vehicle 1 is charged, when the discharging of the first battery modules 100a is completed, the first battery modules 100a are charged and the second battery modules 100b are discharged to charge the vehicle 1. The second battery modules 100b generate heat, but the temperature is stabilized by the heat absorption of the first battery modules 100a. According to an embodiment, the second battery modules 100b can simultaneously charge the vehicle 1 and the first battery modules 100a.

[0167] The plurality of first battery modules 100a and the plurality of second battery modules 100b can be controlled so that some of the plurality of first battery modules 100a become second battery modules 100b, or vice versa, in response to the external temperature or the temperature of the entire secondary battery module 100. In addition, charging conditions and discharging conditions can be appropriately adjusted and controlled.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 36, the plurality of first battery modules 100a and the plurality of second battery modules 100b are arranged densely in the horizontal direction, but are also arranged crossing each other.

[0169] 37, a plurality of first battery modules 100a arranged in a horizontal direction and a plurality of second battery modules 100b arranged in a horizontal direction are stacked one on top of the other. That is, the plurality of first battery modules 100a are arranged above the plurality of second battery modules 100b.

[0170] 38, each of the plurality of first battery modules 100a may be disposed so as to intersect with each of the plurality of second battery modules 100b. Heat exchange means may be provided between each of the plurality of first battery modules 100a and each of the plurality of second battery modules 100b for mutual heat exchange.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 39, a plurality of first battery modules 100a may be arranged in a plurality of rows, and a plurality of second battery modules 100b may be arranged in a plurality of rows, each row being disposed between each of the rows of the plurality of first battery modules 100a.

[0172] 40 and 41, each of the multiple first battery modules 100a may be arranged so as to intersect with each of the multiple second battery modules 100b on the inside and outside thereof. That is, the multiple first battery modules 100a may be arranged so as to vertically surround the multiple second battery modules 100b, or the multiple second battery modules 100b may be arranged so as to vertically surround the multiple first battery modules 100a.

[0173] FIG. 42 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a secondary battery according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0174] When a charging target such as a vehicle 1 is connected to the charger and charging begins, the plurality of first battery modules 100a discharge to charge the vehicle 1 (S10). All secondary battery modules 100 discharge simultaneously to prevent excessive temperature rise.

[0175] When the discharge of the first battery modules 100a is completed, the first battery modules 100a start charging, and the second battery modules 100b start discharging to charge the vehicle 1 (S20). The second battery modules 100b generate heat, and the first battery modules 100a absorb heat, stabilizing the temperature. Depending on the embodiment, the second battery modules 100b can simultaneously charge the vehicle 1 and the first battery modules 100a.

[0176] When charging of the object to be charged, such as the vehicle 1, is completed, the second battery modules 100b are charged (S30). At this time, if the first battery modules 100a are not fully charged, the first battery modules 100a can also be charged.

[0177] The plurality of first battery modules 100a and the plurality of second battery modules 100b can be controlled so that some of the plurality of first battery modules 100a become second battery modules 100b, or vice versa, in response to the external temperature or the temperature of the entire secondary battery module 100. In addition, charging conditions and discharging conditions can be appropriately adjusted and controlled.

[0178] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and it goes without saying that various modifications can be made by a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the invention pertains without departing from the gist of the present invention as claimed in the claims, and these modifications should not be understood separately from the technical ideas and prospects of the present invention.

Claims

1. A redox reaction occurs in multiple layers stacked vertically, a pair of bus bars electrically connecting the plurality of layers; Including, Each of the plurality of layers comprises: an anode where the first half-reaction occurs; a cathode where the second half-reaction occurs; Including, the anodes and cathodes of the layers are aligned vertically; Secondary battery module.

2. the anode of any one of the plurality of layers is stacked with the anode of another adjacent one of the layers; The cathode of the other layer is stacked with the cathode of another adjacent layer. The secondary battery module according to claim 1 .

3. Each of the plurality of layers comprises: a plurality of anode current collectors electrically connected to the plurality of anodes; a plurality of cathode current collectors electrically connected to the plurality of cathodes; Including, any one of the plurality of anode current collectors is disposed between a pair of the anodes that are disposed adjacent to each other, any one of the plurality of cathode current collectors is disposed between a pair of the cathodes disposed adjacent to each other; The secondary battery module according to claim 1 .

4. the plurality of anode current collectors are arranged such that a portion of each of the anode current collectors protrudes from any side surface of the plurality of layers; a portion of each of the cathode current collectors is disposed on a surface of the plurality of layers opposite to the side surface from which the portion of each of the anode current collectors is protruding; The secondary battery module according to claim 3 .

5. a portion of each of the anode current collector and the cathode current collector protrudes in opposite directions from each other in the layer; The secondary battery module according to claim 3 .

6. Each of the plurality of layers comprises: a plurality of anode current collectors electrically connected to the plurality of anodes; a plurality of cathode current collectors electrically connected to the plurality of cathodes; Including, The pair of bus bars a first bus bar electrically connecting the plurality of anode current collectors; a second bus bar electrically connecting the plurality of cathode current collectors; Including, The secondary battery module according to claim 1 .

7. any one of the pair of bus bars is disposed on any one side of the plurality of layers; the other bus bars are arranged on the opposite side of the plurality of layers from the side on which any one of the bus bars is arranged. The secondary battery module according to claim 1 .

8. an upper end plate disposed on an upper end of the plurality of layers; a lower end plate disposed at a lower end of the plurality of layers; a tie surrounding the plurality of layers, the upper end plate, and the lower end plate; Further comprising: the tie is arranged on a side surface of the plurality of layers on which the pair of bus bars are not arranged. The secondary battery module according to claim 7 .

9. Each of the pair of bus bars is formed to be long in the vertical direction. The secondary battery module according to claim 1 .

10. an upper end plate disposed on an upper end of the plurality of layers; a lower end plate disposed at a lower end of the plurality of layers; Further comprising: Each of the pair of bus bars has an upper end contacting the upper end plate or a lower end contacting the lower end plate. The secondary battery module according to claim 1 .

11. an upper end plate disposed on an upper end of the plurality of layers; a lower end plate disposed at a lower end of the plurality of layers; Further comprising: Each of the pair of bus bars has an upper end positioned higher than the upper ends of the plurality of layers, or a lower end positioned lower than the lower ends of the plurality of layers. The secondary battery module according to claim 1 .

12. an upper end plate disposed on an upper end of the plurality of layers; a lower end plate disposed at a lower end of the plurality of layers; a handle connected to the upper end plate; Further comprising: The secondary battery module according to claim 1 .

13. a plurality of secondary battery modules; Each of the plurality of secondary battery modules A redox reaction occurs in multiple layers stacked vertically, a pair of bus bars electrically connecting the plurality of layers; Including, The plurality of secondary battery modules are arranged densely in the horizontal direction. Secondary battery.

14. the plurality of secondary battery modules densely arranged in the horizontal direction are stacked in the vertical direction with other plurality of secondary battery modules densely arranged in the horizontal direction; The secondary battery according to claim 13.

15. The plurality of secondary battery modules are electrically connected by contacting one of the pair of bus bars of each of adjacent pairs of the secondary battery modules. The secondary battery according to claim 13.

16. The two bus bars connected to each other are formed to support each other. The secondary battery according to claim 15.

17. further including a supporter that supports a side surface of some of the plurality of secondary battery modules; The secondary battery according to claim 13.

18. When some of the secondary battery modules are charging, other some of the secondary battery modules are discharging. The secondary battery according to claim 13.

19. further comprising a container in which the plurality of secondary battery modules are housed; The secondary battery according to claim 13.

20. the plurality of secondary battery modules are disposed under a bottom supporting an object to be charged by the plurality of secondary battery modules; The secondary battery according to claim 13.

21. a cover for covering the plurality of secondary battery modules; The secondary battery according to claim 13.

22. the cover heats an object to be charged that is being charged by the plurality of secondary battery modules; The secondary battery according to claim 21.

23. a battery management system that controls the plurality of secondary battery modules; The battery management system is disposed inside the cover. The secondary battery according to claim 21.

Images