Battery packs and devices containing battery packs

Abstract

A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked, a pack case which houses the battery cell stack and includes an opening which has at least one side open, a circuit interruption member which is located between the battery cell stack and the opening and is electrically connected to the battery cell stack, and a cover member which covers the opening, the cover member which includes a through hole through which the circuit interruption member is exposed to the outside, and a circuit interruption cover portion which opens and closes the through hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - reference to related applications) This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2023 - 0080513 filed on June 22, 2023 and Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2023 - 0080514 filed on June 22, 2023, and all the contents disclosed in the documents of the Korean patent applications are included as part of this specification.

[0002] (Technical Field) The present invention relates to a battery pack and a device including the same, and more specifically, to a battery pack and a device including the same, which include a cover member that can be quickly opened and closed in an emergency while protecting a circuit breaker (CB) member from the external environment during normal times.

[0003] Also, the present invention relates to a battery pack and a device including the same, which prevent the inflow of water, dust, etc. into the battery pack and discharge some of the water and dust that has flowed in to the outside of the pack.

Background Art

[0004] Secondary batteries, which are highly applicable according to product groups and have electrical characteristics such as high energy density, are widely applied not only to portable devices but also to electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles driven by an electric drive source, power storage devices, etc. Such secondary batteries are not only noted for the primary advantage of significantly reducing the use of fossil fuels but also for the fact that no by - products are generated by the use of energy, and are attracting attention as a new energy source for environmental protection and energy efficiency improvement.

[0005] Currently, commercially available rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are attracting attention for their advantages over nickel-based batteries, such as almost no memory effect, flexible charging and discharging, very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0006] Generally, lithium secondary batteries can be classified into cylindrical or prismatic secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in a metal can, and pouch-type secondary batteries, in which the electrode assembly is housed in an aluminum laminate sheet pouch, depending on the shape of the outer casing.

[0007] Recently, with the increasing need for large-capacity secondary battery structures, particularly for their use as energy storage, there has been a growing demand for medium-to-large-sized modular battery packs, which are assembled from battery modules with multiple secondary batteries connected in series or parallel. Such battery modules improve capacity and output by connecting numerous battery cells in series or parallel to each other, forming a battery cell stack. Furthermore, multiple battery modules can be assembled together with various control and protection systems, such as a Battery Management System (BMS) and a cooling system, to form a battery pack.

[0008] Furthermore, safety devices such as circuit breakers (CBs) that interrupt the electrical connection to the battery module or battery pack in the event of an emergency such as explosion or fire may be installed. In particular, such safety devices must protect the user and the external environment under normal circumstances, but must also be able to be opened and closed quickly and easily in an emergency.

[0009] However, when battery modules or battery packs are used in energy storage systems for applications such as power grids, residential, commercial, and UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) systems, the battery modules or battery packs may be relatively exposed to the user and the external environment. In this case, safety devices such as circuit breakers (CBs) are also likely to be exposed to the user and the external environment.

[0010] As a result, conventional battery modules and battery packs have a structure in which safety devices such as circuit breakers (CBs) are protected by a complex cover, effectively isolating them from the user and the external environment. However, such conventional battery modules and battery packs have problems such as requiring additional tools to remove the complex cover, taking a lot of time, and making it difficult to quickly use the safety device in an emergency.

[0011] Therefore, technological development is needed for battery packs that ensure sufficient waterproofing and dustproofing for safety devices under normal conditions, while also including a cover component that opens and closes to allow for rapid use of safety devices in emergency situations.

[0012] Furthermore, battery modules or battery packs can be used as energy storage systems. In particular, when battery modules or battery packs are used in applications such as power grids, residential, commercial, and UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) systems, they may be exposed to the external environment relatively frequently. In this case, foreign matter such as water and dust generated in the external environment may enter the battery module or battery pack. When foreign matter such as water and dust enters the battery module or battery pack, problems such as a decrease in the battery performance of the battery module or battery pack may occur.

[0013] In other words, considering the operating environment of the battery module or battery pack, it is necessary to prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from entering the interior and to maintain battery performance. Therefore, technological development is needed for battery packs that can adequately ensure waterproof and dustproof performance. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0014] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack and a device including a battery pack that includes a cover member that protects the circuit breaker (CB) member from the external environment during normal operation, while also allowing it to be quickly opened and closed in emergency situations.

[0015] Furthermore, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a battery pack and a device including a battery pack that prevents water and dust from entering the battery pack while allowing some of the water and dust that do enter to be discharged to the outside of the pack.

[0016] The problems that this invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and any problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked, a pack case which houses the battery cell stack and includes an open portion having at least one side open, a circuit breaker (CB) member which is located between the battery cell stack and the open portion and is electrically connected to the battery cell stack, and a cover member which covers the open portion, the cover member which includes a through hole through which the circuit breaker member is exposed to the outside, and a circuit breaker cover portion which opens and closes the through hole.

[0018] The cover member may include an outer cover and an inner cover located between the outer cover and the opening.

[0019] The internal cover may have internal through-holes and a circuit breaker cover portion, while the external cover may have external through-holes that expose the circuit breaker cover portion to the outside.

[0020] The internal cover has a pair of spring sections formed adjacent to the internal through-hole, and the pair of spring sections and the circuit breaker cover section may be connected to each other.

[0021] The pair of springs may be integrated with the internal cover.

[0022] The circuit breaker cover includes an auxiliary cover that covers an internal through-hole and a button section that covers a pair of spring sections, and the parts of the button section and the auxiliary cover that come into contact with each other can be coupled and uncoupled.

[0023] The circuit interruption cover part can further include a sealing member that surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the internal through hole and extends toward the auxiliary cover.

[0024] On the button part, the opposite side surface to the side surface contacting the auxiliary cover is coupled to a pair of spring parts, and on the auxiliary cover, the opposite side surface to the side surface contacting the button part can be coupled to the outer peripheral surface of the internal through hole.

[0025] When the part of the button part coupled to the pair of spring parts is pressed, the connection between the button part and the auxiliary cover is released, and the auxiliary cover can be opened in the direction facing the outside.

[0026] The auxiliary cover includes a first locking part protruding in the direction facing the button part, the button part includes a second locking part protruding in the direction facing the auxiliary cover, and the first locking part and the second locking part can be hooked to each other.

[0027] The first locking part is located above the second locking part, and when the side surface of the button part coupled to the pair of spring parts is pressed, the hook connection between the first locking part and the second locking part can be released.

[0028] The internal cover can further include a central part, an edge part formed along the outer peripheral surface of the central part, and at least one protruding part formed on the central part.

[0029] The protruding part protrudes toward the outer cover and can have a structure inclined from the central part in the direction facing the edge part.

[0030] The internal cover further includes at least one venting hole formed at a position adjacent to the edge part, and the at least one venting hole can be opened toward the outside of the pack case.

[0031] The edge part extends in the direction facing the outer cover and can cover the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover.

[0032] The outer cover includes at least one external locking portion formed on its outer circumferential surface and projecting toward the edge, and the inner cover includes at least one internal locking portion formed on the edge and projecting toward the center, and the internal locking portion and the external locking portion may be hooked together to fix the inner cover and the outer cover to each other.

[0033] A pair of internal and external locking parts, which are hooked together, can be formed on the upper part of the venting hole, respectively.

[0034] The internal cover includes at least one connecting portion located between the protruding portion and the edge portion and formed on the upper outer surface of the opening, and the internal cover further includes at least one bolting member passing through each of the at least one connecting portion, and the connecting portion and the bolting member are bolted together so that the internal cover and the pack case can be fixed to each other.

[0035] The outer surface of the joint can protrude toward the outer cover.

[0036] The present invention further includes a sealing member located between the internal cover and the opening, the sealing member including at least one through-hole formed at the bottom of at least one joint, and the joint and the through-hole can be bolted to a bolting member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0037] According to one embodiment, the battery pack and device containing the same of the present invention have an auxiliary cover and a button included in the circuit breaker cover portion that covers the circuit breaker (CB) member, which can be opened and closed with a single touch. This allows the circuit breaker member to be protected from the external environment under normal circumstances, while enabling rapid use of the circuit breaker member in emergency situations.

[0038] According to another embodiment, the battery pack and device including the same of the present invention include a cover member that covers the opening of the pack case, thereby preventing water and dust from entering the inside of the battery pack. Furthermore, the battery pack and device including the same of the present invention include at least one protrusion formed in the center of the inner cover included in the cover member, which allows some of the water and dust that have entered to be discharged to the outside of the pack.

[0039] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and any effects not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0040] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a magnified portion of the battery pack. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the battery pack. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a magnified view of a portion of the internal cover and circuit breaker cover. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view showing a magnified portion of the cross-section cut along the b-b' axis in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a portion of the battery pack in which the auxiliary cover and button section, which are included in the circuit breaker cover, have been released from their connection. [Figure 7] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the cover member and sealing member. [Figure 8] Figure 7 is a top view of the internal cover. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view showing a magnified portion of Figure 8. [Figure 10] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the outer cover. [Figure 11]This is a cross-sectional view showing a magnified portion of the cross-section cut along the a-a' axis in Figure 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0041] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, so that they can be easily implemented by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. The present invention can be implemented in several different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0042] To clearly explain the present invention, irrelevant parts have been omitted, and the same or similar reference numerals have been used throughout the specification for identical or similar components.

[0043] Furthermore, the dimensions and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily indicated for the sake of explanation, and therefore the present invention is not necessarily limited to those shown. In the drawings, the thicknesses are shown enlarged to clearly represent multiple layers and regions. Also, in the drawings, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are shown exaggerated for the sake of explanation.

[0044] Furthermore, throughout this specification, when a part "includes" a certain component, unless otherwise stated, it means that it may include other components rather than excluding them.

[0045] Furthermore, throughout the specification, "on a plane" means when the subject is viewed from above, and "on a cross-section" means when the cross-section obtained by cutting the subject perpendicularly is viewed from the side.

[0046] The following describes a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing a magnified portion of the battery pack in Figure 1. Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the battery pack in Figure 1.

[0048] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a battery pack 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack 110 in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a pack case 200 in which the battery cell stack 110 is housed, and which includes an open portion 250 with at least one side open; a circuit breaker (CB) member 600 located between the battery cell stack 110 and the open portion 250 and electrically connected to the battery cell stack 110; and a cover member 300 that covers the open portion 250.

[0049] The battery cell stack 110 may include a plurality of battery cells. Here, the battery cells can be stacked in one direction to form the battery cell stack 110. In the battery cell stack 110, the plurality of battery cells may be oriented from one side of the pack case 200 to the other side, and the one side and the other side of the pack case 200 may be two sides facing each other with respect to the length direction of the pack case 200. As an example, as shown in Figure 2, in the battery cell stack 110, the plurality of battery cells may be stacked oriented so that both sides facing each other on the x-axis are oriented.

[0050] As an example, the battery cells included in the battery cell stack 110 can be pouch-type, prismatic, or jelly-roll-type cylindrical battery cells. Preferably, pouch-type or prismatic batteries are used, and a battery cell stack 110 containing a large number of battery cells can be formed in the limited space inside the battery pack 100. However, it is not limited to this, and any form that can be easily housed inside the pack case 200 can be used.

[0051] If the battery cells included in the battery cell laminate 110 are pouch-type battery cells, the battery cells can be manufactured by housing the electrode assembly in a pouch case made of a laminate sheet including a resin layer and an inner layer, and then heat-sealing the pouch case. Such battery cells can be formed into a rectangular sheet-type structure. Multiple such battery cells can be assembled, and multiple battery cells are stacked so as to be electrically connected to each other to form the battery cell laminate 110. Here, the number of battery cells constituting the battery cell laminate 110 can be adjusted depending on the circumstances.

[0052] The pack case 200 can protect the battery cell stack 110 and the electrical components 150, including the electrical components electrically connected thereto, from external physical shocks. Here, the structure of the pack case 200 can be adapted in various ways, and its material can be a metal material having a predetermined strength.

[0053] Referring to Figure 2, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, a circuit breaker (CB) member 600 can be included in the electrical component 150 housed in the pack case 200, and the circuit breaker member 600 can be electrically connected to the battery cell stack 110.

[0054] As an example, the circuit interruption member 600 may be configured to include a fuse electrically connected to the battery cell stack 110, and may be a component that disconnects the fuse when an abnormal phenomenon occurs, such as abnormal operation of the battery pack 100, including overcharging, over-discharging, or overcurrent. As another example, as shown in Figure 2, a switch component included in the circuit interruption member 600 may be exposed to the outside of the battery pack 100, and the electrical connection of the battery cell stack 110 can be interrupted through the switch component when an abnormal phenomenon occurs in the battery pack 100 or in situations desired by the user. However, it is not limited to this, and the circuit interruption member 600 can be any commonly used circuit interruption component, and any configuration that can interrupt the electrical connection inside the battery pack 100 can be applied to this embodiment.

[0055] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the circuit interruption member 600 can interrupt the electrical connections inside the battery pack 100 in the event of an emergency situation inside or outside the battery pack 100, thereby further improving the safety of the battery pack 100.

[0056] The pack case 200 may include an open section 250 on at least one side. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the pack case 200 may include an open section 250 in which a part of the electrical components 150 is exposed, and the battery cell stack 110 may be housed inside the pack case 200. A lower cover 400 that covers the lower surface of the battery cell stack 110 may be attached to the bottom of the pack case 200 by welding or other means. That is, as shown in Figure 3, the pack case 200 may be in the form of a monoframe that covers the front, rear and both sides of the battery cell stack 110. As another example, the pack case 200 and the lower cover 400 may be integrated with each other. However, it is not limited to these examples, and any frame configuration that can protect the internal components of the battery module 100 can be applied to this embodiment.

[0057] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the pack case 200 includes an opening 250 formed on at least one surface, and the battery cell stack 110 and / or electrical components 150 can be easily housed inside the pack case 200.

[0058] The cover member 300 can cover the opening 250 of the pack case 200. Here, the cover member 300 can extend along the opening 250 of the pack case 200. For example, the cover member 300 can be the same size as or larger than the outer circumferential surface of the opening 250 of the pack case 200. The cover member 300 also includes a circuit breaker cover 500, which can cover a circuit breaker (CB) component included in the electrical component 150. Here, the circuit breaker cover 500 can be exposed to the outside through an external through-hole 325 included in the outer cover 320.

[0059] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the pack case 200 includes an opening 250 formed on at least one surface, allowing the battery cell stack 110 and / or electrical components 150 to be easily housed inside the pack case 200. In addition, a cover member 300 is included to cover the opening 250 formed in the pack case 200, preventing foreign matter such as water and dust from entering the inside of the battery pack 100.

[0060] The cover member 300 may include an outer cover 320 and an inner cover 310 positioned between the outer cover 320 and the opening 250. For example, the cover member 300 can be connected to the opening 250 of the pack case 200 by sequentially joining the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320. As another example, the cover member 300 can be connected to the opening 250 of the pack case 200 with the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 already joined together.

[0061] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the outer cover 320 can temporarily prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing in from the external environment. At the same time, the inner cover 310 can secondarily prevent foreign matter such as water and dust that cannot be protected by the outer cover 320 from flowing into the pack case 200.

[0062] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the cover member 300 can include through holes 300h and 325 through which the circuit interruption member 600 is exposed to the outside, and a circuit interruption cover portion 500 that opens and closes the through holes 300h and 325. Here, the through holes 300h and 325 can include an internal through hole 300h and an external through hole 325.

[0063] The internal cover 310 can have an internal through-hole 300h through which the circuit-breaking member 600 is exposed to the outside, and a circuit-breaking cover 500 that opens and closes the internal through-hole 300h. In the internal cover 310, the internal through-hole 300h is in communication with the opening 250, and the circuit-breaking member 600 can be exposed to the outside by the opening 250 and the internal through-hole 300h.

[0064] Furthermore, the outer cover 320 can have an external through-hole 325 formed therein, through which the circuit breaker cover portion 500 is exposed to the outside. The external through-hole 325 in the outer cover 320 can be the same size as or larger than the internal through-hole 300h, and the circuit breaker member 600 can be exposed to the outside through the external through-hole 325.

[0065] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, in the event of an emergency inside or outside the battery pack 100, the circuit interruption member 600 can be accessed relatively easily by the user through the opening 250 of the pack case 200 and the through holes 300h and 325 of the cover member 300, and the electrical connections inside the battery pack 100 can be quickly interrupted.

[0066] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the circuit breaker cover portion 500 can cover the circuit breaker member 600 included in the electrical component 150. That is, the circuit breaker cover portion 500 can cover the through holes 300h and 325 of the cover member 300. More specifically, the circuit breaker cover portion 500 can cover the internal through hole 300h formed in the internal cover 310, and the circuit breaker cover portion 500 can be exposed to the outside through the external through hole 325 included in the external cover 320.

[0067] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the circuit breaker cover portion 500 covers the circuit breaker member 600 under normal conditions, preventing water and dust and other foreign matter from entering the circuit breaker member 600 and the inside of the pack case 200. At the same time, in the event of an emergency inside or outside the battery pack 100, the circuit breaker cover portion 500 can be opened and closed, allowing the user to approach the circuit breaker member 600 relatively easily and quickly disconnect the electrical connections inside the battery pack 100.

[0068] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a magnified view of a portion of the internal cover and circuit breaker cover portion of Figure 3. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a magnified view of a portion of the cross-section cut along the a-a' axis of Figure 1. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a portion of the battery pack in Figure 1 with the auxiliary cover and button portion, which are included in the circuit breaker cover portion, released.

[0069] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the internal cover 310 may have a pair of spring portions 570 formed adjacent to the internal through-hole 300h.

[0070] As an example, the pair of spring portions 570 can be integrated with the internal cover 310. That is, the pair of spring portions 570 can be injection-molded together with the internal cover 310 during manufacturing. As another example, the pair of spring portions 570 may be attached to the internal cover 310 by welding or other means. More preferably, the pair of spring portions 570 can be integrated with the internal cover 310, minimizing the number of parts required during the manufacturing of the battery pack 100.

[0071] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the circuit breaker cover portion 500 may include an auxiliary cover 510 that covers the internal through-hole 300h and a button portion 530 that covers a pair of spring portions 570.

[0072] More specifically, the auxiliary cover 510 may include an auxiliary cover surface 511 and an auxiliary cover rotating portion 515 formed below the auxiliary cover surface 511, and the button portion 530 may include a button surface 531 and a button rotating portion 535 formed below the button surface 531. The button portion 530 may further include a button projection 531p formed below the button surface 531 and projecting toward a pair of spring portions 570. Below the button surface 531, the button rotating portion 535 may be located adjacent to the internal through hole 300h, and the button projection 531p may be located adjacent to the pair of spring portions 570.

[0073] The pair of spring portions 570 and the circuit breaker cover portion 500 can be coupled to each other. That is, the side of the button portion 530 included in the circuit breaker cover portion 500 opposite to the side that contacts the auxiliary cover 510 can be coupled to the pair of spring portions 570. More specifically, in the circuit breaker cover portion 500, the button projection 531p included in the button portion 530 can be locked and coupled to the pair of spring portions 570. Here, the pair of spring portions 570 can have elasticity that applies pressure in the direction toward the button portion 530.

[0074] The auxiliary cover 510 has an auxiliary cover surface 511 that can extend along the internal through hole 300h and can be the same size as or larger than the outer circumferential surface of the internal through hole 300h. Furthermore, the side of the auxiliary cover 510 opposite to the side in contact with the button portion 530 can be coupled to the outer circumferential surface of the internal through hole 300h. The auxiliary cover rotating portion 515 can be inserted and coupled into at least one first connecting groove 310a formed in the internal cover 310. That is, the auxiliary cover 510 can open and close the internal through hole 300h by rotating with respect to the auxiliary cover rotating portion 515.

[0075] In the button portion 530, the button surface 531 can extend from the auxiliary cover 510 to the pair of spring portions 570 and can be sized to cover the pair of spring portions 570. The button rotation portion 535 can be inserted and coupled into at least one second connecting groove 310b formed in the internal cover 310. That is, when the portion of the button portion 530 located above the pair of spring portions 570 is pressed, the button portion 530 can rotate with respect to the button rotation portion 535.

[0076] Furthermore, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the parts where the button portion 530 and the auxiliary cover 510 are in contact with each other can be coupled and uncoupled. More specifically, when pressure is applied to the part of the button portion 530 that is coupled to a pair of spring portions 570, the coupling between the button portion 530 and the auxiliary cover 510 is released, and the auxiliary cover 510 can be opened in a direction facing outward.

[0077] More specifically, referring to Figure 5, the auxiliary cover 510 includes a first locking portion 519 projecting toward the button portion 530, and the button portion 530 includes a second locking portion 539 projecting toward the auxiliary cover 510. Here, the first locking portion 519 and the second locking portion 539 can be hooked together.

[0078] For example, the first locking portion 519 can be located above the second locking portion 539. That is, the second locking portion 539 can be located below the first locking portion 519. In other words, the first locking portion 519 and the second locking portion 539 can have a structure in which they face each other in an intersecting manner.

[0079] As described above, when the button portion 530 is not pressurized, the pair of spring portions 570 can have the elasticity to press in the direction toward the button portion 530. That is, under normal circumstances, the pair of spring portions 570 can press so that the button projection 531p formed on the button portion 530 faces upward (in the z-axis direction), thereby maintaining the hook connection between the first locking portion 519 and the second locking portion 539.

[0080] In contrast, as shown in Figure 5, when pressure is applied to the part of the button portion 530 that is connected to the pair of spring portions 570, the hook connection between the first locking portion 519 and the second locking portion 539 can be released. That is, when pressure is applied to the part of the button portion 530 where the button projection 531p is located, the part of the button portion 530 where the first locking portion 519 is located can be lifted so that it faces upward (in the z-axis direction), as shown in Figure 6. At this time, the hook connection between the first locking portion 519 and the second locking portion 539 can be released by separating them by a predetermined distance.

[0081] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the internal cover 310 may further include an auxiliary spring 310c formed between at least one first connecting groove 310a, the auxiliary spring 310c may have elasticity that rotates the portion of the auxiliary cover 510 adjacent to the button portion 530 so that it faces upward (in the z-axis direction).

[0082] That is, in Figure 5, before the button portion 530 is pressurized, the hook connection between the first locking portion 519 and the second locking portion 539 is maintained, and the auxiliary cover 510 can cover the internal through hole 300h. In contrast, as in Figure 5, when the button projection 531p portion formed on the button portion 530 is pressurized and the hook connection between the first locking portion 519 and the second locking portion 539 is released, the auxiliary cover 510 can rotate so that the portion of the auxiliary cover 510 where the second locking portion 539 is located faces upward (in the z-axis direction). That is, as in Figure 6, the auxiliary cover 510 rotates so that the portion of the auxiliary cover 510 where the second locking portion 539 is located faces upward (in the z-axis direction), and the internal through hole 300h can be opened to the outside.

[0083] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the connection between the auxiliary cover 510 and the button portion 530 is maintained under normal conditions, preventing water and dust or other foreign matter from entering the circuit breaker member 600 and the inside of the pack case 200. In contrast, in emergency situations inside or outside the battery pack 100, the connection between the auxiliary cover and the button portion 530 can be easily released by pressurizing the button portion 530, and the circuit breaker member 600 can be quickly exposed through the internal through-hole 300h.

[0084] In other words, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment allows the user to access the circuit interruption member 600 relatively easily and quickly, and the electrical connections inside the battery pack 100 can be quickly interrupted.

[0085] Referring to Figures 2, 4, and 5, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment may further include a first sealing member 550 that surrounds the outer circumferential surface of the internal through-hole 300h and extends toward the auxiliary cover 510. Here, the first sealing member 550 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the internal through-hole 300h together with the auxiliary cover 510 and can be compressed between the auxiliary cover 510 and the internal cover 310.

[0086] As an example, the first sealing member 550 can be made of an insulating resin. As another example, the first sealing member 550 can be made of at least one material from polyurethane (US), silicone foam, synthetic rubber, and EPDM (Ethylene-Propylene Diene Monomer). However, it is not limited to these, and any material that seals the space between the auxiliary cover 510 and the inner cover 310 and has electrical insulating properties can be included in this embodiment.

[0087] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the first sealing member 550 can improve the airtightness between the auxiliary cover 510 and the inner cover 310, and can more effectively prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing between the auxiliary cover 510 and the inner cover 310.

[0088] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the cover member and sealing member shown in Figure 3. Figure 8 is a top view of the internal cover shown in Figure 7.

[0089] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the cover member 300 includes an outer cover 320 and an inner cover 310 located between the outer cover 320 and the opening 250. As an example, the cover member 300 can be connected to the opening 250 of the pack case 200 by sequentially joining the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320. As another example, the cover member 300 can be connected to the opening 250 of the pack case 200 with the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 already joined together.

[0090] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the outer cover 320 can temporarily prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing in from the external environment. At the same time, the inner cover 310 can secondarily prevent foreign matter such as water and dust that cannot be protected by the outer cover 320 from flowing into the pack case 200.

[0091] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the internal cover 310 includes a central portion 311, an edge portion 312 formed along the outer circumferential surface of the central portion 311, and at least one protrusion 313 formed on the central portion 311.

[0092] In the internal cover 310, as shown in Figure 5, the central part 311 can mean the central plane of the internal cover 310, and the central part 311 can extend along the xy plane.

[0093] Furthermore, the edge portion 312 is a portion formed along the outer circumferential surface of the central portion 311 and can correspond to the corner portion of the internal cover 310. More specifically, the edge portion 312 can extend toward the external cover 320, as shown in Figure 4.

[0094] As an example, the edge portion 312 is formed along the outer circumferential surface of the central portion 311 and can extend along the z-axis direction toward the outer cover 320. Here, as shown in Figure 2, the edge portion 312 of the inner cover 310 can cover the outer circumferential surface of the outer cover 320.

[0095] As another example, the edge portion 312 may be formed along the outer circumferential surface of the central portion 311 and extend along the outer surface of the pack case 200. Here, the edge portion 312 of the inner cover 310 may cover a portion of the outer surface of the pack case 200.

[0096] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the edge portion 312 of the inner cover 310 included in the cover member 300 can also cover the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover 320 and / or the outer surface of the pack case 200, thereby improving the airtightness of the battery pack 100 and effectively preventing foreign matter such as water and dust from entering the inside of the battery pack 100.

[0097] In the internal cover 310, the protrusion 313 can project toward the external cover 320. More specifically, the protrusion 313 can have a structure that is inclined in the direction from the central part 311 toward the edge part 312. Here, a structure that is inclined in the direction from the central part 311 toward the edge part 312 means that the central part of the central part 311 is relatively high, and the outer part of the central part 311 is relatively low. As an example, the protrusion 313 can have a structure that protrudes convexly toward the external cover 320 with respect to the bottom surface of the central part 311. Here, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the protrusion 313 can have a shape that is symmetrical with respect to the center of the internal cover 310 in the yz plane and / or xz plane.

[0098] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, even if foreign matter such as water and dust flows into the inside of the cover member 300, the foreign matter such as water and dust that has flowed between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can move along the inclined structure of the inner cover 310. That is, the foreign matter such as water and dust that has flowed between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can move through the path guided by the inner cover 310, effectively preventing the foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing into the inside of the pack case 200 in which the battery cell stack 110 and the electrical equipment unit 150 are housed.

[0099] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing an enlarged portion of Figure 8. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the outer cover of Figure 7.

[0100] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the internal cover 310 may further include at least one venting hole 317 formed adjacent to the edge portion 312. More specifically, at least one venting hole 317 may open toward the outside of the pack case 200. That is, at least one venting hole 317 may be formed in a manner that penetrates the internal cover 310. In the internal cover 310, at least one venting hole 317 may be located between the portion where the internal cover 310 and the opening 250 are in contact with each other and the edge portion 312. As an example, at least one venting hole 317 may be formed at a predetermined interval along the edge portion 312 of the internal cover 310. Here, the number of venting holes 317 can be appropriately adjusted as needed to the extent that foreign matter such as water and dust can be effectively discharged while maintaining the airtightness and rigidity of the internal cover 310.

[0101] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, foreign matter such as water and dust that flows between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can move along the protrusion 313 of the inner cover 310, and the foreign matter such as water and dust that moves along the protrusion 313 can be discharged to the outside through the venting hole 317. In other words, foreign matter such as water and dust that flows between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can be removed through the venting hole 317, and foreign matter such as water and dust can be effectively prevented from flowing into the pack case 200.

[0102] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the internal cover 310 may include at least one coupling portion 315 located between the protruding portion 313 and the edge portion 312 and formed on the upper outer circumferential surface of the opening portion 250. Here, the coupling portion 315 may include a coupling hole 315a and a boss portion 315b extending along the outer circumferential surface of the coupling hole 315a. More specifically, the boss portion 315b may protrude toward the external cover 320.

[0103] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the internal cover 310 can prevent foreign matter such as water and dust that has flowed between the internal cover 310 and the external cover 320 from flowing into the joint 315 through the boss portion 315b formed on the outer circumferential surface of the joint 315.

[0104] Referring to Figures 3 and 9, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment may further include at least one bolting member 800 that penetrates at least one coupling portion 315. More specifically, the bolting member 800 can penetrate the coupling hole 315a contained in the coupling portion 315. Here, the coupling portion 315 and the bolting member 800 are bolted together, and the internal cover 310 and the pack case 200 can be fixed to each other.

[0105] As an example, the bolting member 800 can be made of a material such as stainless steel or carbon steel for machine structures (for example, SC45C). As another example, the bolting member 800 can be made of zinc (Zn) or trivalent chromium (Cr 3+ The ) can be made of plated steel material. However, it is not limited to this, and any material with sufficient rigidity to stably fix the internal cover 310 and the pack case 200 can be applied to this embodiment.

[0106] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the internal cover 310 can be stably fixed to the pack case 200 by the bolting connection between the joint portion 315 and the bolting member 800, and foreign matter such as water and dust can be prevented from flowing between the internal cover 310 and the pack case 200.

[0107] Referring to Figures 3 and 7, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment may further include a second sealing member 700 located between the internal cover 310 and the opening 250. Here, the second sealing member 700 may extend along the outer circumferential surface of the opening 250 and the surface where the internal cover 310 is in contact with each other.

[0108] Furthermore, the second sealing member 700 may have a structure that avoids the portion where at least one venting hole 317 formed in the inner cover 310 is located. Also, the second sealing member 700 may include at least one through hole 700h formed at the lower part of at least one joint 315. Here, the through hole 700h can be bolted together with the joint 315 through which the bolting member 800 passes. That is, the second sealing member 700 is fixed to the pack case 200 together with the inner cover 310 and can be compressed between the inner cover 310 and the pack case 200.

[0109] As an example, the second sealing member 700 can be made of an insulating resin. As another example, the second sealing member 700 can be made of at least one material from polyurethane (US), silicone foam, synthetic rubber, and EPDM (Ethylene-Propylene Diene Monomer). However, it is not limited to these, and any material that seals the space between the cover member 300 and the pack case 200 and has electrical insulating properties can be included in this embodiment.

[0110] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the second sealing member 700 can improve the airtightness between the pack case 200 and the cover member 300, and can more effectively prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing between the inner cover 310 and the pack case 200.

[0111] Referring to Figures 2, 9, and 10, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the outer cover 320 may include at least one external locking portion 329 formed on the outer circumferential surface of the outer cover 320 and projecting toward the edge portion 312. The inner cover 310 may also include at least one internal locking portion 319 formed on the edge portion 312 and projecting toward the center portion 311. For example, the internal locking portion 319 and the external locking portion 329 may have a snap-fit ​​structure, and the internal locking portion 319 and the external locking portion 329 may have a structure that interlocks with each other. That is, the internal locking portion 319 and the external locking portion can be hooked together to fix the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 to each other. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the internal locking portion 319 may be formed on the upper part of the venting hole 317. In other words, a pair of internal locking parts 319 and external locking parts 329, which are hooked together, can be formed on the upper part of the venting hole 317, respectively.

[0112] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the cover member 300 can stably fix the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 by hook coupling, and can effectively prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320.

[0113] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a magnified portion of the cross-section obtained by cutting along the a-a' axis in Figure 1.

[0114] Referring to Figures 2, 3, 7, and 11, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the cover member 300 can temporarily prevent foreign matter such as water and dust from flowing in from the external environment by the outer cover 320. Furthermore, with the cover member 300, foreign matter such as water and dust that has flowed into the interior of the outer cover 320 can be located between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320. At this time, as shown in Figure 8, foreign matter such as water and dust that has flowed between the inner cover 310 and the outer cover 320 can move along the inclined structure of the protrusion 313 of the inner cover 310. Also, as shown in Figure 8, foreign matter such as water and dust that has moved along the inclined structure of the protrusion 313 of the inner cover 310 can be discharged to the outside of the pack case 200 through the venting hole 317.

[0115] As a result, in the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment, the cover member 300 effectively prevents foreign matter such as water and dust from the external environment of the battery pack 100 from flowing into the pack case 200, and effectively discharges any foreign matter that does enter to the outside of the pack case 200. In other words, the battery pack 100 according to this embodiment can block the inflow of water and dust into the pack case 200 in a typical usage environment for the battery pack 100, and can ensure IP (Identification code for Protection) 55 level waterproof and dustproof performance.

[0116] Another embodiment of the present invention includes a battery pack as described above. Such a device is applicable to means of transport such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid vehicles, but the present invention is not limited thereto and is applicable to a variety of devices that can use battery modules and battery packs including them, and this also falls within the scope of the present invention.

[0117] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements by those skilled in the art that utilize the basic concepts of the present invention as defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 100 Battery Pack 110 Battery cell stack 150 Electrical System 200 pack case 250 Open area 300 Cover component 300h internal through-hole 310 Internal cover 311 Center 312 Edge section 315 Joint 317 Venting Hall 319 Internal locking part 320 External cover 325 External through-holes 329 External locking part 400 Lower cover 500 Circuit breaker cover section 510 Auxiliary cover If it's a 511 cover 515 1st fixed part 519 First locking part 530 Button section 531 Button side 531p Button protrusion 535 Second fixed part 539 Second locking section 550 First sealing member 570 Spring section 600 Circuit breaker 700 Second sealing member 700h through hole 800 Bolting member

Claims

1. A battery cell stack in which multiple battery cells are stacked, A pack case containing the battery cell stack, including an open section with at least one side open, A circuit breaker member is located between the battery cell stack and the opening and is electrically connected to the battery cell stack. Includes a cover member that covers the opening, The cover member includes a through-hole through which the circuit blocking member is exposed to the outside, and a circuit blocking cover portion that opens and closes the through-hole. Battery pack.

2. The battery pack according to claim 1, wherein the cover member includes an outer cover and an inner cover located between the outer cover and the opening.

3. The aforementioned through-hole includes an internal through-hole and an external through-hole. The internal cover has the internal through-hole and the circuit blocking cover portion formed therein. The external cover has an external through-hole formed therein, through which the circuit breaker cover portion is exposed to the outside. The battery pack according to claim 2.

4. The internal cover has a pair of spring portions formed adjacent to the internal through-hole, The pair of spring parts and the circuit breaker cover part are connected to each other. The battery pack according to claim 3.

5. The battery pack according to claim 4, wherein the pair of spring portions are integrated with the internal cover.

6. The circuit breaker cover portion includes an auxiliary cover that covers the internal through-hole and a button portion that covers the pair of spring portions. The parts where the button portion and the auxiliary cover come into contact with each other are connected and disconnected from each other. The battery pack according to claim 4.

7. The battery pack according to claim 6, wherein the circuit breaker cover portion further includes a first sealing member that surrounds the outer surface of the internal through-hole and extends toward the auxiliary cover.

8. The side of the button portion opposite to the side that contacts the auxiliary cover is connected to the pair of spring portions. The auxiliary cover has a side opposite to the side that contacts the button portion that is connected to the outer surface of the internal through hole. The battery pack according to claim 6.

9. When the part of the button that is connected to the pair of springs is pressed, The connection between the button portion and the auxiliary cover is released, and the auxiliary cover is opened in a direction facing outward. The battery pack according to claim 8.

10. The auxiliary cover includes a first locking portion that protrudes in the direction toward the button portion, The button portion includes a second locking portion that protrudes in the direction toward the auxiliary cover, The first locking portion and the second locking portion are hook-connected to each other. The battery pack according to claim 9.

11. The first locking portion is located above the second locking portion, When pressure is applied to the side of the button portion that is connected to the pair of spring portions, the hook connection between the first locking portion and the second locking portion is released. The battery pack according to claim 10.

12. The battery pack according to claim 2, wherein the internal cover further includes a central portion, an edge portion formed along the outer circumferential surface of the central portion, and at least one protruding portion formed on the central portion.

13. The battery pack according to claim 12, wherein the protruding portion protrudes toward the outer cover and is inclined in a direction toward the edge portion from the center.

14. The internal cover further includes at least one venting hole formed adjacent to the edge portion, The at least one venting hole is open to the outside of the pack case. The battery pack according to claim 13.

15. The battery pack according to claim 13, wherein the edge portion extends in a direction toward the outer cover and covers the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover.

16. The outer cover includes at least one external locking portion formed on the outer circumferential surface of the outer cover and protruding toward the edge portion, The internal cover includes at least one internal locking portion formed on the edge and protruding toward the center, The internal locking portion and the external locking portion are connected by hooks, and the internal cover and the external cover are fixed to each other. The battery pack according to claim 15.

17. The internal cover further includes at least one venting hole formed adjacent to the edge portion, The battery pack according to claim 16, wherein a pair of internal locking portions and external locking portions, which are hook-connected to each other, are formed on the upper part of the venting hole, respectively.

18. The internal cover is located between the protruding portion and the edge portion and includes at least one connecting portion formed on the upper part of the outer peripheral surface of the opening, The inner cover further includes at least one bolting member that penetrates each of the at least one joints, The aforementioned joint and the bolting member are bolted together, and the inner cover and the pack case are fixed to each other. The battery pack according to claim 13.

19. The battery pack according to claim 18, wherein the outer circumferential surface of the coupling portion protrudes toward the outer cover.

20. The present invention further includes a second sealing member located between the internal cover and the opening, The second sealing member includes at least one through hole formed at the lower part of each of the at least one joints, The aforementioned joint and the aforementioned through hole are bolted together with the bolting member. The battery pack according to claim 18.

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