Battery Sub-Module

Abstract

A battery submodule according to one aspect of the present invention may include a plurality of battery cells stacked in a left-right direction, each of which has at least one electrode lead protruding forward, an upper case including a front plate covering front sides of the battery cells and a top plate extending rearward from the front plate and covering upper sides of the battery cells, and a lower case coupled to the upper case and accommodating the battery cells together with the upper case.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery sub-module.

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0161981, filed on November 28, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety in the specification and drawings. [Background technology]

[0003] With the rapid increase in demand for portable electronic products such as laptops, video cameras, and mobile phones, and the full-scale commercialization of robots and electric vehicles, active research is being conducted on high-performance secondary batteries that can be repeatedly charged and discharged.

[0004] Secondary batteries currently in commercial use include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium secondary batteries. Of these, lithium secondary batteries are attracting attention due to the advantages they have over nickel-based secondary batteries, such as almost no memory effect, which allows them to be charged and discharged freely, a very low self-discharge rate, and a high energy density.

[0005] Such lithium secondary batteries mainly use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as positive and negative active materials, respectively, and include an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate coated with the positive and negative active materials are arranged with a separator sandwiched therebetween, and an exterior material, i.e., a battery case, that seals and houses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.

[0006] In general, lithium secondary batteries are classified according to the shape of their exterior material into can-type secondary batteries in which an electrode assembly is housed in a metal can and pouch-type secondary batteries in which an electrode assembly is housed in a pouch made of an aluminum laminate sheet.

[0007] Recently, secondary batteries are widely used for driving and energy storage not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices but also in medium- to large-sized devices such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS). A battery module can be configured by electrically connecting multiple secondary batteries and storing them together inside a module case. A battery pack can also be configured by connecting multiple battery modules.

[0008] However, when multiple secondary batteries (battery cells) or multiple battery modules are densely packed in a small space, they may be vulnerable to thermal events. In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in any battery cell, high-temperature gas, flames, heat, etc. may be generated. If such gas, flames, heat, etc. are transmitted to other battery cells included in the same battery module, an explosive chain reaction situation such as thermal propagation may occur. Furthermore, such a chain reaction may not only cause accidents such as fire or explosion in the battery module, but may also cause fire or explosion in other battery modules.

[0009] Furthermore, in the case of medium to large battery packs such as electric vehicles, the risk of thermal chain reactions may be further increased since a large number of battery cells and battery modules are included to increase the output and / or capacity. In addition, in the case of battery packs mounted on electric vehicles, users such as drivers may be present in the vicinity. Therefore, if a thermal event occurring in a particular battery module cannot be appropriately controlled and a chain reaction occurs, it may cause not only serious property damage but also loss of human life. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] The present invention is directed to solving these and other problems.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a battery submodule that can suppress heat propagation.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a battery sub-module with reduced size or weight.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a battery sub-module with a simplified structure.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a battery sub-module with improved assembly efficiency or productivity.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a battery sub-module having a sealed interior. [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] To achieve the above-mentioned objective, a battery submodule according to one aspect of the present invention may include an upper case including a plurality of battery cells stacked in a left-right direction, each having at least one electrode lead protruding forward, a front plate covering front sides of the plurality of battery cells, and a top plate extending rearward from the front plate and covering upper sides of the plurality of battery cells, and a lower case coupled to the upper case and accommodating the plurality of battery cells together with the upper case.

[0017] Also, the front plate and the top plate may be integrally formed.

[0018] The upper case may further include a rear plate extending from the top plate and covering a rear side of the plurality of battery cells.

[0019] Also, the front plate, the top plate and the rear plate may be integrally formed.

[0020] At least one of the upper case and the lower case may further include a plurality of metal materials.

[0021] The battery pack may further include an adhesive member disposed between adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

[0022] In addition, the upper case may further include a hole formed in the front plate, and a bus bar positioned in the hole and electrically connected to electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells.

[0023] The plate may further include a gasket positioned between the hole and the bus bar to electrically insulate the bus bar from the front plate.

[0024] Moreover, the gasket can extend along the periphery of the bus bar and provide a seal between the hole and the bus bar.

[0025] In addition, the bus bar may further include a side surface extending toward the plurality of battery cells, and electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells may be coupled to the side surface.

[0026] The battery may further include a sensor located outside the upper case and electrically connected to the bus bar.

[0027] In order to achieve the above object, a battery module according to another aspect of the present invention includes two or more battery sub-modules according to the present invention.

[0028] In order to achieve the above object, a battery pack according to still another aspect of the present invention includes two or more battery sub-modules according to the present invention.

[0029] In order to achieve the above object, according to still another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle includes two or more battery sub-modules according to the present invention. Effect of the Invention

[0030] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery submodule capable of suppressing heat propagation can be provided.

[0031] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery sub-module with reduced size or weight can be provided.

[0032] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery sub-module with a simplified structure can be provided.

[0033] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery sub-module with improved assembly or productivity can be provided.

[0034] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery sub-module having a sealed interior can be provided.

[0035] In addition, the present invention can have various other effects, which will be described in each embodiment, or the description of effects that can be easily inferred by those skilled in the art will be omitted.

[0036] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, serve to further understand the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in the drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0037] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an isolated configuration of a battery sub-module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 illustrates a battery submodule according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 illustrates a plurality of battery cells according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram illustrating the connection of a bus bar, a gasket, and an upper case according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a part of a cross-sectional configuration taken along line AA' in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 illustrates a busbar and battery cell coupling according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' in FIG. 6, showing a joint portion between a bus bar and a battery cell. [Figure 8] 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' in FIG. 6, showing a joint portion between a bus bar and a battery cell. [Figure 9] 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' in FIG. 6, showing a joint portion between a bus bar and a battery cell. [Figure 10] 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating the connection between the upper case and the lower case according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating the connection between the upper case and the lower case according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating the connection between the upper case and the lower case according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a battery sub-module according to an embodiment of the present invention being provided and connected to each other. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 illustrates a battery module including multiple battery sub-modules according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 illustrates a battery pack including multiple battery sub-modules according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 illustrates a vehicle equipped with multiple battery sub-modules according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0038] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, the terms and words used in the present specification and claims are not to be construed as being limited to their ordinary and dictionary meanings, but are to be construed as having meanings and concepts according to the technical ideas of the present invention, in accordance with the principle that the inventors themselves can appropriately define the concepts of terms in order to best describe the invention.

[0039] Therefore, it should be understood that the configurations shown in the embodiments described in this specification are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore there may be various equivalents and modifications that can be substituted therefor at the time of this application.

[0040] Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an isolated configuration of a battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a view showing the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a plurality of battery cells 100, 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d, an upper case 210, and a lower case 240.

[0041] The battery submodule 200 may be referred to as a cell bank 200 or a cell assembly 200. The battery submodule 200 may refer to one including a smaller number of battery cells 100 than a normal battery module. In particular, the battery submodule 200 is a unit smaller than a normal battery module, and one battery module may include two or more battery submodules 200. For example, a plurality of battery cells included in one battery module may be grouped into a predetermined number of units, and each grouped unit may be a battery submodule 200. Alternatively, the battery submodule 200 may refer to one having a smaller size or a simpler structure than a normal battery module.

[0042] A plurality of battery cells 100 may be provided. For example, the plurality of battery cells 100 may be two to four battery cells 100. Each of the plurality of battery cells 100 may have at least one electrode lead 103, 103a, 103b, 103c, 103d protruding forward. Also, each of the plurality of battery cells 100 may have another electrode lead 103 protruding backward.

[0043] The plurality of battery cells 100 may be stacked in the left-right direction. Alternatively, the plurality of battery cells 100 may be stacked in the y-axis direction. The plurality of battery cells 100 may be a pouch-type secondary battery. Such a pouch-type secondary battery may be configured in a form in which an electrode assembly and an electrolyte are housed inside a pouch exterior material. The pouch exterior material may be configured in a form in which edges of two pouches are sealed in a state in which the electrode assembly and the electrolyte are housed. The pouch-type secondary battery may be configured in a form in which a housing part is located in the center and a sealing part surrounds the periphery. The pouch-type secondary battery may be configured in a quadrangle shape having four corners, and three or four of the four corners may be sealed.

[0044] The upper case 210 may include a front plate 212. The front plate 212 may cover a front side of the plurality of battery cells 100. The upper case 210 may include a top plate 211. The top plate 211 may extend rearward from the front plate 212. The top plate 211 may be configured to cover an upper side of the plurality of battery cells 100. The top plate 211 and the front plate 212 may form a space, and the plurality of battery cells 100 may be accommodated in the space formed by the top plate 211 and the front plate 212. The upper case 210 may be made of a metal material.

[0045] The lower case 240 may be coupled to the upper case 210. The lower case 240 may form a space, and the plurality of battery cells 100 may be accommodated in the space formed by the lower case 240. The upper case 210 and the lower case 240 may accommodate the plurality of battery cells 100 together. The lower case 240 may be made of a metal material. The upper case 210 and the lower case 240 may form the exterior of the battery sub-module 200.

[0046] According to such a configuration of the present invention, the thermal safety of the battery can be ensured. In particular, according to one aspect of the present invention, a plurality of battery cells are grouped into a battery submodule 200, which can be considered as a smaller unit than a conventional battery module, and such a battery submodule 200 can include a relatively small number of battery cells 100. Thus, by controlling a thermal event in units of the battery submodule 200, damage caused by a thermal event that may occur in the battery cell 100 can be minimized. For example, in the case of a battery module including a plurality of battery submodules 200 of the present invention, or a product having a battery pack or battery mounted thereon, even if a thermal event occurs in any of the battery cells 100, the thermal event can be prevented from propagating outside the battery submodule 200 including the battery cell 100.

[0047] Furthermore, the upper case 210 and the lower case 240 of the battery submodule 200 can prevent flames or vent gases generated from the battery cells 100 from flowing out of the battery submodule 200. As a result, the damage range of a thermal event can be limited to the battery submodule 200 including the battery cell 100 in which the thermal event has occurred. The battery submodules 200 in which no thermal event has occurred can be protected from the thermal event, thereby improving the overall thermal stability of the battery pack or product.

[0048] In addition, according to the configuration of the present invention, in the case of a battery pack or product in which the battery submodule 200 of the present invention is adopted, the battery cells can be managed in smaller units than in the case of a typical battery module being adopted, which may facilitate replacement or maintenance of the battery cells.

[0049] In addition, according to the configuration of the present invention, the parts constituting the exterior of the battery submodule 200 are the upper case 210 and the lower case 240, so that the number of parts of the battery submodule 200 may be less than the number of parts of a normal battery module. This simplifies the structure of the battery submodule 200, and improves the assembly or productivity of the battery submodule 200.

[0050] The front plate 212 and the top plate 211 of the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be integrally formed. For example, the front plate 212 and the top plate 211 may be formed by bending a single plate.

[0051] According to this configuration of the present invention, the structure or manufacturing process of the upper case 210 can be simplified. As a result, the assembly or productivity of the battery submodule 200 can be improved. In addition, the weight of the battery submodule 200 can be reduced. In addition, according to this embodiment, since there is no gap between the front plate 212 and the top plate 211, it is possible to prevent flames, gas, etc. from leaking through such gaps.

[0052] 1, the upper case 210 of the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a rear plate 213. The rear plate 213 may extend from the top plate 211. The rear plate 213 may cover a rear side of the multiple battery cells 100. The rear plate 213 may extend downward from a rear end of the top plate 211 and face the front plate 212. The rear plate 213 may be made of a metal material.

[0053] According to this configuration of the present invention, a plurality of battery cells 100 can be accommodated in a space formed by the front plate 212, the top plate 211, and the rear plate 213.

[0054] According to this configuration of the present invention, the plurality of battery cells are not exposed to the outside by the upper cover, and a thermal event that may occur from the plurality of battery cells can be prevented from being propagated to the outside.

[0055] The front plate 212, the top plate 211, and the rear plate 213 of the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be integrally formed. For example, the front plate 212, the top plate 211, and the rear plate 213 may be formed by bending a single plate.

[0056] According to this configuration of the present invention, the structure or manufacturing process of the upper case 210 can be simplified. As a result, the assembly or productivity of the battery submodule 200 can be improved. In addition, the weight of the battery submodule 200 can be reduced. In addition, according to this embodiment, since there is no gap between the rear plate 213 and the top plate 211, it is possible to prevent flames, gas, etc. from leaking through such gap.

[0057] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a plurality of battery cells 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] 3, the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include an adhesive member 120. The adhesive member 120 may be disposed between adjacent battery cells 100 among the plurality of battery cells 100. For example, the adhesive member 120 may be a double-sided tape. The plurality of battery cells 100 may be fixed to each other by the adhesive member 120.

[0059] According to such a configuration of the present invention, since the plurality of battery cells 100 are fixed to each other, the plurality of battery cells 100 can stably maintain an aligned state and can improve the connectivity with other components.

[0060] 3, the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a pad 110. The pad 110 may be attached to a side surface 105a of the battery cell 100a, 100d located at the outermost position among the plurality of battery cells 100. An adhesive member 120 may be disposed between the pad 110 and the side surface of the battery cell 100a. The pad 110 may be electrically insulating. For example, the pad 110 may include a silicon material.

[0061] According to this configuration of the present invention, the pad 110 can electrically insulate the multiple battery cells 100 from other adjacent components, thereby improving the electrical stability of the battery sub-module 200.

[0062] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a combination of a bus bar 230, a gasket 220, and an upper case 210 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a portion of a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' in Fig. 1. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a bus bar 230 and a battery cell 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] 4 to 6, the upper case 210 of the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a hole 212a formed in the front plate 212. The hole 212a may be formed in a rectangular shape. The hole 212a may penetrate the front plate 212.

[0064] In addition, the upper case 210 may further include a bus bar 230. The bus bar 230 is located in the hole 212a and may be electrically connected to the electrode leads 103 of the multiple battery cells 100. The bus bar 230 may have a bar shape or a block shape. The bus bar 230 may be referred to as a block 230, a busbar block 230, or a bus block 230.

[0065] According to this configuration of the present invention, the bus bar 230 can collect the outputs of the plurality of battery cells 100, and the output of the battery sub-module 200 can be configured to differ depending on the number of battery cells 100. In addition, according to this embodiment, the bus bar 230 can be easily attached to the upper case 210, and the coupled state can be stably maintained after the bus bar 230 is attached.

[0066] The upper case 210 of the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a gasket 220. The gasket 220 may be located between the hole 212a and the bus bar 230. The gasket 220 may electrically insulate the bus bar 230 from the front plate 212. For example, the gasket 220 may include a silicone material.

[0067] According to this configuration of the present invention, the gasket 220 can prevent contact between the bus bar 230 and the front plate 212, and can prevent leakage of power output from the plurality of battery cells 100. Thus, the electrical stability of the battery submodule 200 can be improved.

[0068] 4 , the gasket 220 of the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may extend along the periphery of the busbar 230. For example, when the busbar 230 has a square rod shape and the hole 212a of the front plate 212 has a square shape, the gasket 220 may have a square shape with the hole 224 formed therein. The gasket 220 may seal between the hole 224 and the busbar 230.

[0069] The front plate 212 may be coupled with the gasket 220 and the bus bar 230. The gasket 220 may be assembled, fitted, secured, glued or bonded to the hole 212a of the front plate 212. The bus bar 230 may be assembled, fitted, secured, glued or bonded to the hole 224 of the gasket 220.

[0070] 5, the gasket 220 may include a first part 221 that contacts, is fixed to, or is coupled to a front surface of the front plate 212. The first part 221 may cover the front surface of the front plate 212. The gasket 220 may include a second part 222 that contacts, is fixed to, or is coupled to a rear surface of the front plate 212. The second part 222 may cover the rear surface of the front plate 212. The gasket 220 may include a third part 223 that connects the first part 221 and the second part 222. The third part 223 may contact the front plate 212 and the bus bar 230.

[0071] According to this configuration of the present invention, the holes in the front plate can be sealed by the gasket 220 and the bus bar, thereby preventing materials from flowing in and out of the battery submodule. Furthermore, even if a thermal event occurs inside the battery submodule, this can prevent the thermal event from being propagated to the outside.

[0072] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, by inserting the busbar 230 into the hole 224 and combining with the gasket 220, the assembly or productivity of the battery submodule 200 can be improved.

[0073] Also, according to this configuration of the present invention, the gasket 220 is inserted into the hole 212a and coupled to the front plate 212, thereby improving the assembly or productivity of the battery submodule 200. Also, in this case, the coupling force and sealing force between the gasket 220 and the front plate 212 can be stably secured.

[0074] 7 to 9 are diagrams that diagrammatically show the configuration of a portion of a battery submodule according to various embodiments of the present invention, for example, Fig. 7 to Fig. 9 are diagrams showing various embodiments of a coupling portion between the bus bar 230 and the battery cell 100 in a cross-sectional configuration taken along the section line B-B' in Fig. 6.

[0075] 6 to 9, the bus bar 230 of the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include side surfaces 233, 234 extending toward the plurality of battery cells 100. The bus bar 230 may include a front surface 231, a rear surface 232 opposite to the front surface 231, and side surfaces 233, 234 connecting the front surface 231 and the rear surface 232. The side surfaces 233, 234 may include a right surface 233 and a left surface 234.

[0076] The electrode leads 103 of the multiple battery cells 100 may be connected to the side surfaces 233, 234 of the bus bar 230. For example, the electrode leads 103 and the bus bar 230 may be connected by laser welding to form a welded joint W1. The laser for welding may be irradiated in the +y-axis or -y-axis direction.

[0077] 7, two battery cells 100a, 100b may be connected to one bus bar 230. In this case, the electrode lead 103a of the first battery cell 100a may be contact-connected to the right surface 233 of the bus bar 230, and a welded portion W2a may be formed. The electrode lead 103b of the second battery cell 100b may be contact-connected to the left surface 234 of the bus bar 230, and a welded portion W2b may be formed.

[0078] 8, three battery cells 100a, 100b, and 100c may be connected to one bus bar 230. In this case, the electrode lead 103b of the second battery cell 100b may be contact-connected to the right surface 233 of the bus bar 230 to form a welded portion W3a. The electrode lead 103a of the first battery cell 100a may be contact-connected to the electrode lead 103b of the second battery cell 100b to form a welded portion W4a. That is, two or more electrode leads may be stacked on one surface of the bus bar 230 and welded together with the bus bar 230. In addition, the electrode lead 103c of the third battery cell 100c may be contact-connected to the left surface 234 of the bus bar 230 to form a welded portion W3b.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 9, four battery cells 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d may be connected to one bus bar 230. In this case, the electrode lead 103b of the second battery cell 100b may be connected to the right surface 233 of the bus bar 230, and a welded portion W6a may be formed. The electrode lead 103a of the first battery cell 100a may be connected to the electrode lead 103b of the second battery cell 100b, and a welded portion W5a may be formed. The electrode lead 103c of the third battery cell 100c may be connected to the left surface 234 of the bus bar 230, and a welded portion W5b may be formed. The electrode lead 103d of the fourth battery cell 100d may be connected to the electrode lead 103c of the third battery cell 100c, and a welded portion W6a may be formed. In such an embodiment, it can be said that two or more electrode leads are welded to the bus bar 230 in a state where they are stacked on each of both sides of the bus bar 230.

[0080] According to such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to greatly improve the weldability between the electrode lead and the bus bar 230. In particular, the space 214 provided by the upper case 210 is opened in the y-axis direction, and a laser for welding can be irradiated in the y-axis direction. For example, a laser irradiated in the -y-axis direction can weld the electrode lead 103 of the battery cell 100 to the right surface 233 of the bus bar 230. Also, a laser irradiated in the +y-axis direction can weld the electrode lead 103 of the battery cell 100 to the left surface 234 of the bus bar 230. This can improve the assemblability or productivity of the battery submodule 200.

[0081] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the combination of the upper case 210 and the lower case 240 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] 10, the lower case 240 according to an embodiment of the present invention may form an empty space 244 therein together with the upper case 210. The lower case 240 may include a bottom plate 241, a left plate 243, and a right plate 242. The left plate 243 and the right plate 242 may extend upward from the bottom plate 241. The left plate 243 and the right plate 242 may be parallel, opposite, or facing each other.

[0083] The left plate 243, the right plate 242, and the bottom plate 241 may be integrally formed. The plurality of battery cells 100 may be accommodated in a space 244 formed by the lower case 240. The space 214 provided by the upper case 210 and the space 244 provided by the lower case 240 may overlap with each other.

[0084] The lower case 240 and the upper case 210 may be configured to cover the entire portion of the cell assembly when they are coupled to each other. In particular, the lower case 240 and the upper case 210 may be configured to cover different sides of the cell assembly. For example, the lower case 240 may be configured in a U-shaped frame shape to cover the lower, left and right sides of the battery cells 110. Also, the upper case 210 may be configured in an n-shaped frame shape to cover the upper, front and rear sides of the battery cells 110. That is, the plurality of battery cells 110 may be housed in a sealed internal space defined by the coupling of the upper case 210 and the lower case 240.

[0085] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the internal space of the battery submodule 200 can be completely isolated from the outside. Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs in the multiple battery cells 100, the thermal event can be prevented from propagating to the outside of the battery submodule 200.

[0086] 10, the adhesive member 250 may be disposed or applied on an upper surface of the bottom plate 241. The adhesive member 250 may fix the battery cell 100 to the lower case 240. The adhesive member 250 may transfer heat generated in the battery cell 100 to the lower case 240. For example, the adhesive member 250 may be a resin having adhesiveness or thermal conductivity (thermal adhesive resin or thermal resin).

[0087] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the plurality of battery cells 100 are fixed to the lower case 240, so that the stability of the battery sub-module 200 can be improved.

[0088] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of the upper case 210 and the lower case 240. As shown in FIG.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 11, at least one of the upper case 210 and the lower case 240 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a plurality of metal materials. In particular, the upper case 210 and / or the lower case 240 may be configured with a multi-layer structure. For example, the upper case 210 or the lower case 240 may be configured with a clad metal 201 material. In particular, the clad metal 201 may include three layers. The clad metal 201 may be stacked in the order of the first layer 202, the second layer 203, and the third layer 204. The upper case 210 or the lower case 240 may be configured such that the third layer 204 is located on the inside and the first layer 202 is located on the outside. The upper case 210 or the lower case 240 may be manufactured by processing the clad metal 201. For example, the upper case 210 or the lower case 240 may be manufactured by bending or cutting the clad metal 201.

[0090] The first layer 202 may be a metal material that is easy to weld. For example, the first layer 202 may be an aluminum material. The first layer 202 may be formed to a thickness of 1.5t to 1.8t. The second layer 203 may be a metal material that is highly resistant to heat. The second layer 203 may be a metal material that has advantageous properties for blocking heat and flames. For example, the second layer 203 may be stainless steel (SUS). The second layer 203 may be formed to a thickness of 0.2 to 0.5t. The second layer 203 may be bonded onto the first layer 202. The third layer 204 may be a material that is electrically insulating. For example, the third layer 204 may be a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film. The third layer 204 may be attached to the second layer 203.

[0091] According to such a configuration of the present invention, it is possible to simplify the structure or manufacturing process of the upper case 210 or the lower case 240. As a result, it is possible to improve the assembly efficiency or productivity of the battery submodule 200.

[0092] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, since the upper case 210 or the lower case 240 includes an aluminum material, the weight of the battery sub-module 200 can be reduced.

[0093] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, since the upper case 210 or the lower case 240 contains an aluminum material, the upper case 210 or the lower case 240 can be easily welded, thereby improving the assembly and productivity of the battery submodule 200.

[0094] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, since the upper case 210 or the lower case 240 contains stainless steel material, even if a thermal event occurs in the multiple battery cells 100, it can be prevented from being propagated to the outside of the battery submodule 200.

[0095] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, the upper case 210 or the lower case 240 includes an insulating material, so that the electrical stability of the battery sub-module 200 can be improved.

[0096] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a combination of the upper case 210 and the lower case 240 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 12, the upper case 210 and the lower case 240 of the battery submodule 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be combined. The upper case 210 and the lower case 240 may be made of a clad metal 201, and the outer surface of the upper case 210 and the outer surface of the lower case 240 may be a first layer 202. In particular, the first layer 202 may include an aluminum material. For example, the upper case 210 and the lower case 240 may be combined by laser welding. Welds W10, W20, W30, W40, W50, and W60 may be formed along the periphery of the front plate 212, the top plate 211, and the rear plate 213 of the upper case 210. The welds W10, W20, W30, W40, W50, and W60 may be formed along the periphery of the bottom plate 241, the left plate 243, and the right plate 242 of the lower case 240.

[0097] According to this configuration of the present invention, the upper case 210 and the lower case 240 can be easily assembled and their connection can be improved.

[0098] In addition, according to this configuration of the present invention, a welding process is performed along the periphery of the upper case 210 or the lower case 240, thereby sealing the inside of the battery submodule 200, and even if a thermal event occurs in the multiple battery cells 100, it can be prevented from being propagated to the outside of the battery submodule 200.

[0099] The upper case 210 of the battery sub-module 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a stepped portion 215. The lower case 240 may be in contact with, arranged or aligned with the stepped portion 215 of the upper case 210.

[0100] According to this configuration of the present invention, the welding process of the upper case 210 and the lower case 240 can be performed quickly and accurately, thereby improving the assembly or productivity of the battery sub-module 200.

[0101] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a battery sub-module according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is provided in a plurality of sub-modules and connected to each other.

[0102] 13, a plurality of battery submodules 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be connected. A plurality of battery submodules 200 may be arranged, aligned, or stacked along the horizontal direction (y-axis direction) and / or the vertical direction (z-axis direction). A terminal bus bar 320 may electrically connect adjacent battery submodules 200. The terminal bus bar 320 may be electrically connected to the bus bar 230 of each battery submodule 200.

[0103] According to such a configuration of the present invention, the busbar 230 can collect the outputs of the multiple battery submodules 200, and the outputs of the multiple battery submodules 200 can be configured differently depending on the number of the multiple battery submodules 200.

[0104] The battery sub-module 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be electrically connected to an external electronic component. For example, the electronic component may be a sensor, a BMS, or a controller. The sensor may obtain status information such as a voltage or temperature of one or more battery sub-modules 200.

[0105] According to such a configuration of the present invention, a sensor for acquiring status information of the battery submodule 200 is provided outside the battery submodule 200, thereby reducing the size or weight of the battery submodule 200 and simplifying the structure of the battery submodule 200.

[0106] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] 14, a battery module 400 according to the present invention may include two or more battery sub-modules 200 according to the present invention. For example, as shown in FIG 14, two battery sub-modules 200 may be included in one battery module 400. In this case, although not shown, the bus bars of the two battery sub-modules 200 may be electrically connected to each other by the terminal bus bar 320 as described in the embodiment of FIG 13.

[0108] According to this embodiment, a single battery module includes a plurality of battery cells, and the plurality of battery cells may be divided and arranged in different battery sub-modules, thereby preventing an event such as thermal runaway occurring in a specific battery cell from propagating to other battery sub-modules, and effectively preventing thermal runaway from occurring in the entire battery module.

[0109] In addition, the battery module 400 according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery sub-module 200, such as components of a battery module known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a bus bar assembly, a module case 410, a cooling unit, etc.

[0110] FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 15, a battery pack 500 according to the present invention may include two or more of the above-described battery sub-modules 200 according to the present invention.

[0112] In addition, the battery pack 500 according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery submodule 200, for example, components of a battery pack known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a BMS 510, a bus bar, a pack case 520, a relay, a current sensor, etc.

[0113] FIG. 16 is a perspective view that shows a schematic configuration of an automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 16, the automobile V according to the present invention may include two or more of the battery submodules 200 according to the present invention. The battery submodule 200 according to the present invention may be applied to automobiles such as electric automobiles and hybrid automobiles. That is, the automobile V according to the present invention may include the battery submodule 200 according to the present invention, the battery module 400 according to the present invention, or the battery pack 500 according to the present invention. In addition, the automobile V according to the present invention may further include various other components included in the automobile V, in addition to the battery submodule 200, the battery module 400, or the battery pack 500. For example, the automobile V according to the present invention may further include a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), and the like, in addition to the battery submodule 200 according to the present invention.

[0115] Meanwhile, although terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used in this specification, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art of the present invention that such terms are used for convenience of explanation and may change depending on the position of the target object, the position of the observer, etc.

[0116] As described above, the present invention has been described using limited embodiments and drawings. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can make various modifications and variations within the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 100 Battery Cells 103 Electrode Lead 110 Battery Cell 120 Adhesive material 200 Battery Submodule 210 Upper case 211 Top Plate 212 Front Plate 212a hole 213 Rear plate 215 Step 220 Gasket 230 Busbar 240 Lower Case 241 Bottom Plate 242 Light Plate 243 Left Plate 250 Adhesive Materials 320 Terminal Busbar 400 Battery Module 410 Module Case 500 Battery Pack 520 Pack Case

Claims

1. A plurality of battery cells stacked in the left-right direction, each of which has at least one electrode lead protruding forward; an upper case including a front plate covering a front side of the plurality of battery cells and a top plate extending rearward from the front plate and covering an upper side of the plurality of battery cells; a lower case coupled to the upper case and housing, together with the upper case, the plurality of battery cells.

2. The battery submodule of claim 1 , wherein the front plate and the top plate are integrally formed.

3. The upper case includes: The battery submodule according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a rear plate extending from the top plate and covering rear sides of the plurality of battery cells.

4. The battery submodule of claim 3 , wherein the front plate, the top plate and the rear plate are integrally formed.

5. At least one of the upper case and the lower case is The battery submodule of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a plurality of metallic materials.

6. The battery submodule according to claim 1 , further comprising an adhesive member disposed between adjacent battery cells among the plurality of battery cells.

7. The upper case includes: a hole formed in the front plate; The battery submodule according to claim 1 , further comprising: a bus bar located in the hole and electrically connected to electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells.

8. The battery submodule according to claim 7 , further comprising a gasket positioned between the hole and the bus bar, electrically insulating the bus bar and the front plate.

9. The battery submodule according to claim 8 , wherein the gasket extends around and along the bus bar and seals between the hole and the bus bar.

10. The bus bar is a side extending toward the plurality of battery cells; The electrode leads of the plurality of battery cells include The battery submodule of claim 7 coupled to the side surface.

11. The battery submodule of claim 7 , further comprising a sensor located outside the upper case and electrically connected to the bus bar.

12. A battery module comprising two or more battery sub-modules according to claim 1 or 2.

13. A battery pack comprising two or more battery sub-modules according to claim 1 or 2.

14. A vehicle comprising two or more battery sub-modules according to claim 1 or 2.

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