Battery cell assembly, battery pack, and means of transport including the same

Abstract

A battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells, each having a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal; a positive electrode busbar provided to be detachably attached to the battery cells and electrically connected to the positive electrode terminal when connected to the battery cells; a negative electrode busbar provided to be connected to the negative electrode terminal; and a plurality of holder assemblies including coupling molds provided to be coupled to the positive electrode busbar and the negative electrode busbar, respectively, wherein mold vent holes are formed in the coupling molds to allow gas to be discharged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a moving means comprising the same, and more particularly, to a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a moving means comprising the same that enable replacement of a single battery cell in a battery assembly formed of a plurality of cylindrical battery cells, allow smooth gas discharge, and can prevent ignition of battery cells.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0054380 filed on April 23, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the document of said Korean patent application are incorporated as a part of the present specification.

Background Art

[0003] In recent years, rechargeable secondary batteries have been widely used as energy sources for wireless mobile devices. In addition, secondary batteries are also attracting attention as energy sources for electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, etc., which have been proposed as solutions for problems such as air pollution of conventional gasoline vehicles, diesel vehicles, etc. that use fossil fuels. Therefore, the types of applications that use secondary batteries are highly diversified due to the advantages of secondary batteries. It is expected that secondary batteries will be applied to more fields and products in the future than now.

[0004] In general, a secondary battery can include a plurality of battery cells. According to the shape of the battery case, such battery cells are classified into cylindrical batteries and prismatic battery cells in which the electrode assembly is housed in a cylindrical or prismatic metal can, and pouch-type battery cells in which the electrode assembly is housed in a pouch-type case of an aluminum laminate sheet. The electrode assembly housed in the battery case is composed of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator structure interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. As a power generating element capable of charging and discharging, it can be classified into a jelly-roll type, in which a separation membrane is interposed between a long sheet-shaped positive electrode and negative electrode coated with an active material and then wound, and a stack type, in which a large number of positive electrodes and negative electrodes of a predetermined size are sequentially stacked with the separation membranes interposed therebetween.

[0005] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the welding process of a typical battery cell 30 and busbar 50. Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view showing a battery cell assembly 40, including the battery cell 30 fixed using conventional adhesive 60.

[0006] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, in the field of advanced technology, battery packs (not shown) are used to supply power to various electronic devices, and these include a battery cell assembly (or battery cell stack) consisting of numerous battery cells 30 and a battery management system. As shown in Figure 1, the battery cell assembly 40 is generally electrically connected by methods such as resistance welding using resistance welding rods 20 between the electrode terminals 10 of the numerous battery cells 30 mounted inside and the metal plate-shaped busbars 50.

[0007] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, in conventional battery cell assemblies, the battery cells 30 were sometimes fixed inside the outer casing (not shown) of the battery cell assembly 40 using adhesive 60 (potting resin) or the like to prevent damage to the electrical connections from external impacts.

[0008] However, with such conventional battery cell assemblies 40, if problems such as over-discharge, damage, or short circuits occur in some of the many battery cells 30 during use, it is difficult to individually replace only the problematic battery cells 30. In other words, since many battery cells 30 are connected to a bus bar 50, etc., when separating them from the bus bar 50, damage to the bus bar 50 is likely to occur, and the electrical connection to the healthy battery cells 30 may be lost. Furthermore, in order to separate the battery cells 30 fixed inside the outer casing with adhesive 60, the adhesive 60 must be removed, and this process of removing the adhesive 60 is costly and time-consuming, making it inefficient.

[0009] Therefore, conventional battery cell assemblies 40 had to be replaced either in the smallest units, such as module assemblies consisting of multiple battery cells 30 that were not fixed with adhesive 60, or replaced with an entirely new battery cell assembly 40. Such replacement methods require the disposal of both faulty and healthy battery cells, making it difficult to reuse the discarded battery cells, which leads to increased maintenance costs for the battery cell assembly 40 and causes environmental pollution.

[0010] On the other hand, when abnormal conditions such as overcharging, over-discharging, or external impact occur in the battery cell 30, the internal temperature and pressure rise rapidly. At this time, a large amount of gas is generated inside the battery cell, and if this is not quickly released to the outside, the battery cell may swell or, in severe cases, rupture. Rupture can lead to ignition or explosion, making it extremely vulnerable to safety risks.

[0011] Conventionally, to prevent this, a cap assembly was provided at the top of the battery cell, which included a venting device that was designed to open when the internal pressure of the battery cell increased above a predetermined level. In the event of abnormal behavior of the battery cell, the gas generated was to be discharged to the outside through such a venting device. However, components such as busbars connected to the electrode terminals were located around the cap assembly, making it difficult for the gas to be smoothly discharged through the venting device. In other words, the busbars obstructed the venting device or hindered the movement of the exhaust gas, reducing the efficiency of gas discharge and increasing the risk of battery cell rupture and fire caused by gas due to delayed gas discharge.

[0012] Therefore, there is a need to develop a new type of battery assembly technology that allows for easy replacement of individual battery cells while also enabling smooth gas discharge from the battery cells within the housing to the outside. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0013] The present invention aims to solve problems that occur in conventional battery assemblies.

[0014] Specifically, the objective of this invention is to provide a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transport including the same, through one embodiment of the present invention, which allows for easy individual removal and replacement of battery cells when necessary.

[0015] Furthermore, the objective is to provide a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transport including the same, which have a structure that allows gas generated inside the battery cell to be efficiently discharged to the outside without being obstructed by busbars or the like.

[0016] Furthermore, the objective is to provide a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transport including the same that can prevent the risk of the battery cells expanding, rupturing, and igniting. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] To achieve the aforementioned objectives, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery cell assembly is provided which includes a plurality of battery cells, each having a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal; a plurality of holder assemblies, each including a coupling mold provided to be coupled to the positive electrode terminal and which is detachably provided for the battery cells and electrically coupled to the positive electrode terminal when coupled to the battery cells; a negative electrode bus bar provided to be connected to the negative electrode terminal; and a coupling mold provided to be coupled to the positive electrode bus bar and the negative electrode bus bar, respectively, wherein mold vent holes are formed in the coupling mold to allow gas to be discharged.

[0018] The coupling mold may include a mold plate portion in which the vent hole is formed, and a mold projection portion that protrudes outward from the mold plate portion and has an exposed hole in which a part of the positive electrode busbar is exposed.

[0019] The coupling mold can house the positive electrode busbar such that a portion of the positive electrode busbar is exposed to the outside.

[0020] The positive electrode bus bar may further include: a positive electrode plate portion located at a lower portion of the coupling mold; and a positive electrode protrusion portion exposed to the outside through the exposure hole of the coupling mold and extending from the positive electrode plate portion.

[0021] Further, the battery cell includes a cap assembly provided at an upper portion thereof, the cap assembly being configured such that when an internal gas pressure equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure is generated inside the battery cell, at least a portion of the cap assembly is opened to discharge internal gas to the outside, and the cap assembly may be arranged to face the mold vent hole.

[0022] The negative electrode bus bar may be formed with an insertion hole provided to allow the coupling mold to be inserted and coupled thereinto.

[0023] The coupling mold may be provided with a slit in the mold plate portion into which an inner peripheral portion of the insertion hole is inserted.

[0024] The negative electrode bus bar may be provided with a plurality of fixing protrusions on an inner peripheral portion of the insertion hole, and the coupling mold may be formed with a plurality of fixing holes provided in the mold plate portion to allow the plurality of fixing protrusions to be inserted into the fixing holes respectively.

[0025] The battery module may further include an upper cover coupled to the plurality of holder assemblies and provided to cover the plurality of battery cells, and the upper cover may be formed with a cover vent hole provided to communicate with the mold vent hole.

[0026] The positive electrode bus bar may include a positive electrode connection unit that elastically presses the positive electrode terminal, and the positive electrode connection unit may include: a pressure moving portion that is in contact with the positive electrode terminal and has electrical conductivity; and an elastic member that elastically supports the pressure moving portion toward the positive electrode terminal.

[0027] The negative electrode busbar may include a negative electrode plate portion and a negative electrode connection portion that extends downward from the negative electrode plate portion and contacts the negative electrode terminal.

[0028] To achieve the above object, according to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a battery pack including at least one of the battery cell assemblies and further including a battery management system (BMS).

[0029] Further, to achieve the above object, according to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a moving means including the battery pack.

Effects of the Invention

[0030] In order to solve the problems in the prior art, the battery cell assembly, the battery pack, and the moving means including the same according to the present invention have the following effects.

[0031] Since the battery cells are detachably coupled to the holder assembly, when replacement of a battery cell is required, only the corresponding battery cell can be selectively separated and replaced with a new battery cell. This can improve the recyclability of battery cells and significantly reduce maintenance costs.

[0032] Further, by being configured such that gas generated due to abnormal behavior of a battery cell can be discharged through the coupling mold of the holder assembly, gas generated due to excessive pressure inside the battery cell can be quickly and effectively discharged to the outside through the mold vent hole. This has the effect of minimizing risks such as swelling, rupture, and ignition of the battery cell caused by delayed gas discharge.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0033] [Figure 1] It is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a general welding process of a battery cell and a busbar. [Figure 2] It is a perspective view schematically showing a battery cell assembly including a battery cell fixed using a conventional adhesive according to the prior art. [Figure 3] This is a schematic perspective view showing a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a schematic, separated perspective view showing a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a schematic perspective view showing how the battery cell and holder assembly of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention are connected. [Figure 6] This is a schematic separated perspective view showing the separated configuration of the holder assembly of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the inside of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a partial perspective view schematically showing the configuration of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, excluding the connecting member. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the appearance of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a moving means according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] Hereinafter, a battery assembly, battery pack, and a means of transport including the same according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] Furthermore, regardless of the reference numeral used in the drawings, identical or corresponding components will be assigned the same or similar reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted. For the sake of clarity, the size and shape of each component shown may be exaggerated or reduced.

[0036] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view showing a battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a schematic separated perspective view showing a battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view showing the battery cell 110 and holder assembly 160 of the battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention coupled together. And Figure 6 is a schematic separated perspective view showing the separated configuration of the holder assembly 160 of the battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Referring to Figures 3 to 6, a battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery cells 110. For example, the battery cells 110 may be cylindrical. However, the external shape of the battery cells 110 is not necessarily limited to a cylindrical shape; they may also be rectangular battery cells having a rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0038] Furthermore, each of the multiple battery cells 110 may be provided with a positive electrode terminal 112 and a negative electrode terminal 114. For example, as shown in Figure 5, each battery cell 110 may include an electrode assembly, a battery can 116 housing the electrode assembly, and a cap assembly 115 coupled to the top of the battery can 116. In this case, the positive electrode terminal 112 may be located on the top of the cap assembly 115. The negative electrode terminal 114 may be formed from at least a portion of the battery can 116. The battery cell 110 may also be filled with an electrolyte.

[0039] For example, the cap assembly 115 may include an insulating gasket (not shown), a venting device (not shown), a PTC element (not shown), a terminal plate (not shown) connecting the positive terminal 112 to the positive electrode, and so on. However, the cap assembly is not necessarily limited to these configurations, and any general cap assembly provided in the battery cell 110 is applicable.

[0040] Furthermore, a battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of holder assemblies 160. The plurality of holder assemblies 160 are each detachably attached to a plurality of battery cells 110. For example, one holder assembly can be detachably attached to one battery cell 110. For example, the holder assembly 160 can be temporarily fixed by applying pressure from the top to the bottom of the battery cell 110, or conversely, it can be detachably attached by pulling it upward. On the other hand, various means such as clamping and joining can be used as methods for temporarily fixing the holder assembly 160 to the battery cell 110.

[0041] Each of the holder assemblies 160 also includes a positive busbar 130, which is provided to be electrically connected to the positive terminal 112 of the battery cell 110. The positive busbar 130 is provided to be in contact with and electrically connected to the positive terminal 112. Each of the holder assemblies 160 also includes a negative busbar 150, which is provided to be electrically connected to the negative terminal 114 of the battery cell 110. The negative busbar 150 is provided to be connected to the negative terminal 114 when coupled to the battery cell 110.

[0042] Furthermore, each of the multiple holder assemblies 160 includes a coupling mold 140. Each of these coupling molds 140 may be configured to bond to each of the positive busbar 130 and the negative busbar 150. That is, by bonding the coupling mold 140 to each of the positive busbar 130 and the negative busbar 150, the positive busbar 130 and the negative busbar 150 can be positioned appropriately to easily contact the electrode terminals of the battery cell 110 while forming electrical insulation between the two busbars.

[0043] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell assembly 100 can have at least one mold vent hole 148 formed in the bonding mold 140, which is provided to allow gas to be discharged. Such a mold vent hole 148 can effectively discharge gas generated inside the battery cell 110 to the outside, thereby preventing the battery cell 110 from rupturing or igniting.

[0044] Furthermore, the battery cell assembly 100 of the present invention, with its detachable structure of multiple battery cells 110 and holder assembly 160, facilitates the individual replacement of the battery cells 110 and enhances the safety of the battery cells 110 by facilitating the smooth discharge of internal gas through vent holes.

[0045] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, in a battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, when a plurality of holder assemblies 160 and a plurality of battery cells 110 are connected, the positive terminal 112 and the positive busbar 130 can be configured to be in contact with each other, and the negative terminal 114 and the negative busbar 150 can be configured to be in contact with each other.

[0046] Specifically, when each holder assembly 160 is positioned on top of the battery cell 110, the positive busbar 130 and the negative busbar 150 can be positioned so that they face the positive terminal 112 and the negative terminal 114 of the battery cell 110, respectively. When the holder assembly 160 is pressed toward the battery cell 110 in this state to connect it to the top of the battery cell 110, the positive busbar 130 can contact the positive terminal 112, and the negative busbar 150 can contact the negative terminal 114.

[0047] Therefore, the battery cell assembly 100 of the present invention can achieve a more stable and efficient electrical connection between the battery cell 110 and the holder assembly 160 by ensuring that the positive electrode busbar 130 and the negative electrode busbar 150 contact the terminals of the battery cell 110 when the holder assembly 160 and the battery cell 110 are coupled together.

[0048] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell assembly 100 can be configured such that, when the holder assembly 160 is separated from the battery cell 110, the positive terminal 112 and the negative terminal 114 are separated sequentially from the positive busbar 130 and the negative busbar 150.

[0049] On the other hand, if a problem occurs with the battery cell 110 and it needs to be replaced individually, the holder assembly 160 is separated from the battery cell 110. When the holder assembly 160 is lifted from the top of the battery cell 110, the positive busbar 130 and the negative busbar 150 may lose contact with the positive terminal 112 and the negative terminal 114 of the battery cell 110.

[0050] Figure 7 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view showing the inside of a battery cell assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Referring to Figures 5 to 7, in a battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, a cap assembly 115 can be provided on the upper part of the battery cell 110. A holder assembly 160 can be detachably coupled to the cap assembly 115. Specifically, the cap assembly 115 can serve to seal and protect the battery can 116 and the electrode assembly.

[0052] Furthermore, the cap assembly 115 of the battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention can be provided such that, when an internal gas pressure exceeding a predetermined pressure is generated inside the battery cell 110, at least a portion of it is opened to discharge the internal gas to the outside.

[0053] Generally, when a battery cell 110 is subjected to abnormal conditions such as overcharging, over-discharging, or high-temperature exposure, a large amount of gas is generated inside the battery cell 110. If the internal pressure of the battery cell 110 rises excessively due to the gas generated at this time, it may lead to the battery cell 110 swelling or rupturing, which poses a significant safety risk. Therefore, in such situations, it is extremely important to quickly expel the gas inside the battery cell 110 to the outside and reduce the internal pressure.

[0054] Therefore, in this invention, the cap assembly 115 is provided with a structure that opens when the internal pressure rises, allowing gas inside the battery cell 110 to be discharged to the outside. Specifically, when an internal pressure exceeding a certain level acts on the cap assembly 115, a specific part of it breaks or bursts open, providing a passage for gas discharge. Such an opening structure of the cap assembly 115 can be realized in various forms. For example, a break structure and an opening structure that break or open due to internal pressure can be provided in a part of the cap assembly 115.

[0055] Furthermore, the cap assembly 115 can be positioned to face the mold vent hole 148.

[0056] Therefore, the battery cell assembly 100 includes a cap assembly 115 having a rupture structure or opening structure that opens when the internal pressure exceeds a predetermined level. This allows the internal gas to be quickly discharged to the outside when an abnormal condition occurs in the battery cell 110, thereby ensuring safety.

[0057] Furthermore, the coupling mold 140 may include a mold plate portion 147. The mold plate portion 147 can be provided so as to cover the upper part of the positive electrode plate portion 132. In other words, the mold plate portion 147 can be coupled to the upper part of the positive electrode plate portion 132. The mold plate portion 147 may be electrically insulating. For example, the mold plate portion 147 can be formed from an insulating material, and can be formed from a resin material. The mold plate portion 147 may be planar or circular.

[0058] Furthermore, the coupling mold 140 may include a mold projection 144. Such a mold projection 144 may have a shape that protrudes upward from the mold plate portion 147. An exposed hole 146 may be formed in the mold projection 144. The exposed hole 146 may be provided in the center of the mold projection 144 so that the upper part of the positive projection 136 of the coupled positive busbar 130 is exposed to the outside. Since the upper surface of the positive busbar 130 is opened through such an exposed hole 146, electrical connection between the positive busbar 130 and the connecting member 180 is facilitated. Therefore, while effective insulation and fixing between the positive busbar 130 and the negative busbar 150 can be achieved through the structure of the coupling mold 140, electrical connection with the connecting member 180 can be made smooth.

[0059] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the coupling mold 140 of the battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention can incorporate a positive electrode busbar 130. For example, the positive electrode busbar 130 can be arranged in a state where it is incorporated into the coupling mold 140. In this case, the coupling mold 140 can be provided such that a part of the positive electrode busbar 130 is exposed to the outside. This facilitates electrical connection between the positive electrode busbar 130 and other electrical components (connecting members).

[0060] Furthermore, the positive electrode busbar 130 may include a positive electrode plate portion 132. The positive electrode plate portion 132 can be located below the coupling mold 140 so as to be exposed in the downward direction (towards the battery cell 110). The positive electrode plate portion 132 may have a circular outer periphery and a flat plate shape.

[0061] Furthermore, the positive electrode busbar 130 may include a positive electrode projection 136. The positive electrode projection 136 may have a form that protrudes from the positive electrode plate portion 132. The positive electrode projection 136 can be electrically connected to the connecting member 180 (external busbar), which will be described later, by joining it with the connecting member 180.

[0062] Furthermore, the positive electrode protrusion 136 of the positive electrode busbar 130 can be housed inside the molded protrusion 144. Referring to Figure 7, the molded plate portion 147 may be provided with an insertion groove 149. The insertion groove 149 can be provided to receive the body portion 138 of the positive electrode connection unit 134.

[0063] Furthermore, an insertion hole 159 may be formed in the negative electrode busbar 150 of the battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, the insertion hole 159 may be generally circular in shape. The insertion hole 159 may be sized to allow the insertion of the coupling mold 140, which will be described later.

[0064] Furthermore, the insertion hole 159 can be formed to an appropriate size and shape, taking into consideration the capacity of the battery cell 110 and the amount of gas generated. For example, the insertion hole 159 can have shapes such as circular, ellipsoidal, or square.

[0065] Therefore, by forming an insertion hole 159 in the negative electrode busbar 150, it is possible to induce faster and more efficient gas discharge when the internal pressure of the battery cell 110 increases. This further enhances the safety of the battery pack.

[0066] Furthermore, the mold vent hole 148 formed in the bonding mold 140 can communicate with the insertion hole 159. For example, the insertion hole 159 may be circular. That is, gas generated inside the battery cell 110 can pass through the mold vent hole 148 formed in the bonding mold 140 inserted into the insertion hole 159 and then be discharged to the outside.

[0067] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the coupling mold 140 can be coupled to the insertion hole 159. In this case, the mold plate portion 147 may be provided with a slit S into which the inner circumference of the insertion hole 159 is inserted. For example, a linear slit S that extends inward to a predetermined depth can be formed in a circular shape along the side surface of the mold plate portion 147.

[0068] As a result, the coupling mold 140 can stably connect the negative electrode busbar 150 and the insertion hole 159 by inserting the inner circumference of the insertion hole 159 into the slit S provided in the mold plate portion 147.

[0069] Furthermore, the negative electrode busbar 150 may be provided with a plurality of fixing protrusions 157 on the inner circumference of the insertion hole 159, each of which is inserted into a slit S formed in the mold plate portion 147. The coupling mold 140 may include a plurality of fixing holes 143 provided in the mold plate portion 147, each of which is inserted into one of the plurality of fixing protrusions 157. For example, the internal space of the fixing hole 143 may be in a form corresponding to the fixing protrusions 157.

[0070] Therefore, by providing a plurality of fixing protrusions 157 on the inner circumference of the insertion hole 159, and forming a plurality of fixing holes 143 in the mold plate portion 147 into which each of the fixing protrusions 157 is inserted, the negative electrode busbar 150 and the coupling mold 140 can be precisely and stably fixed to the set coupling position. As a result, the holder assembly 160 can make a highly reliable connection (contact) with the electrode terminals (positive electrode terminal 112, negative electrode terminal 114) of the battery cell 110.

[0071] Furthermore, the coupling between the positive busbar 130, the negative busbar 150, and the coupling mold 140 can be carried out in various ways. For example, the positive busbar 130 can be embedded in the coupling mold 140 using a method such as insert injection, and then the coupling mold 140 coupled with the positive busbar 130 can be sandwiched and coupled into the insertion hole 159 of the negative busbar 150. In this case, the coupling mold 140 can function as an insulator that electrically isolates the positive busbar 130 and the negative busbar 150.

[0072] Furthermore, the positive electrode busbar 130 may be provided with a plurality of coupling protrusions 137 so as to be stably fixed while built inside the coupling mold 140. The coupling mold 140 may have coupling holes 145 formed therein, into which the coupling protrusions 137 of the positive electrode busbar 130 are inserted.

[0073] Figure 8 is a schematic partial perspective view showing the remaining components of a battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, excluding the connecting members.

[0074] Referring to Figures 3 to 8, a battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an upper cover 120 provided to cover a plurality of battery cells 110. The upper cover 120 may be provided so as to house the plurality of battery cells 110 inside. The upper cover 120 may be provided so as to house a plurality of holder assemblies 160 with the plurality of battery cells 110 housed inside. A housing portion 126 in which the holder assemblies 160 can be housed may be provided inside the upper cover 120. For example, the receiving portion 126 may have the form of a groove into which the holder assemblies 160 can be inserted and stably mounted. For example, the receiving portion 126 may have an inner space corresponding to the outer shape of the holder assembly 160.

[0075] Furthermore, the upper cover 120 can have a cover vent hole 123 formed therein, which communicates with at least one of the insertion hole 159 and the mold vent hole 148. In other words, the upper cover 120 protects the battery cell 110 and the holder assembly 160 from the external environment and allows gas generated from the battery cell 110 to be discharged to the outside.

[0076] For example, the cover vent hole 123 can be formed to be similar in size to the mold vent hole 148, or to be larger than the mold vent hole 148. In such a structure, the gas that has passed through the lower mold vent hole 148 and insertion hole 159 can smoothly exit through the cover vent hole 123 of the upper cover 120. If the size of the cover vent hole 123 is small, a bottleneck situation may occur during gas discharge, potentially causing gas stagnation. Therefore, by providing the cover vent hole 123 in the upper cover 120, the discharge of gas generated from the battery cell 110 can be facilitated.

[0077] Referring to Figures 3 and 8, the battery cell assembly 100 may include a plurality of connecting members 180. The connecting members 180 may be mounted on top of the upper cover 120. Each of the plurality of connecting members 180 may include at least one of a positive electrode contact portion 182 and a negative electrode contact portion 184.

[0078] Referring to Figures 3, 4, and 7, the upper cover 120 may have a positive electrode opening 122 for contact between the positive electrode busbar 130 and the connecting member 180. Specifically, the positive electrode opening 122 may be open so that the positive electrode busbar 130 is exposed to the outside.

[0079] Furthermore, the upper cover 120 may have a negative electrode opening 124 for contact between the negative electrode busbar 150 and the connecting member 180. Specifically, the negative electrode opening 124 may be open so that the negative electrode busbar 150 is exposed to the outside.

[0080] Furthermore, the upper cover 120 may have a connecting groove 127 provided for inserting a connecting member 180, which will be described later. For example, the connecting groove 127 may have a size corresponding to the connecting member 180.

[0081] Furthermore, the positive electrode contact portion 182 can be provided so as to contact the positive electrode plate portion 132 of the positive electrode busbar 130 via the positive electrode opening 122.

[0082] As an example, the negative electrode contact portion 184 can be provided to contact the negative electrode plate portion 152 of the negative electrode busbar 150 via the negative electrode opening 124. The connecting member 180 can have a form that extends along a connecting groove 127 formed on the upper surface of the upper cover 120. That is, the connecting member 180 can have a form that is bent according to the upper surface structure of the upper cover 120. For example, as shown in Figure 3, among the plurality of connecting members 180, there may be connecting members 180 electrically connected to a plurality of positive electrode busbars 130, and connecting members 180 connected to the positive electrode busbars 130 and the negative electrode busbar 150.

[0083] The housing 190 may also include a lower cover 170. The lower cover 170 of the battery cell assembly 100 may be configured to connect with the lower part of the upper cover 120. For example, the upper cover 120 and the lower cover 170 may be screw-connected using fastening bolts. The lower cover 170 may also be configured to cover the lower part of each of the multiple battery cells 110.

[0084] Referring to Figures 5 to 7, the positive busbar 130 may include a positive connection unit 134. The positive connection unit 134 may have a configuration that protrudes from the positive plate portion 132 toward the positive terminal 112. The positive connection unit 134 may be provided to elastically press against the positive terminal 112. In other words, the positive connection unit 134 may be provided so that the length of the protrusion is variable depending on the distance between the positive busbar 130 and the positive terminal 112.

[0085] Furthermore, the positive electrode busbar 130 of the battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention may have through-holes 135 into which positive electrode connection units 134 are inserted. For example, the positive electrode busbar 130 may have four through-holes 135 into which each of the four positive electrode connection units 134 is inserted. Multiple through-holes 135 can be formed in a circular pattern on the positive electrode busbar 130.

[0086] Furthermore, the positive electrode connection unit 134 may include a body portion 138. The body portion 138 may be electrically conductive. That is, the body portion 138 may include a material such as an electrically conductive metal. The body portion 138 can be provided so as to be built into the coupling mold 140. In other words, the body portion 138 of the positive electrode connection unit 134 can be coupled inside the coupling mold 140 using an insert injection molding method.

[0087] Furthermore, the positive electrode connection unit 134 may include a pressurized moving part 133. The pressurized moving part 133 may be electrically conductive. That is, the pressurized moving part 133 may be made of an electrically conductive metallic material. The pressurized moving part 133 may be provided at the lower part of the body 138. In other words, the pressurized moving part 133 may be provided so as to be in direct contact with the positive electrode terminal 112. For this reason, the pressurized moving part 133 may be provided so as to be movable in the direction of pressurizing the positive electrode terminal 112. In this case, the pressurized moving part 133 may be designed to be movable within a certain range toward the positive electrode terminal 112, and the contact pressure with the positive electrode terminal 112 may be appropriately adjusted.

[0088] Furthermore, the positive electrode connection unit 134 may include an elastic member 139. The elastic member 139 can be built into the body portion 138. The elastic member 139 can be provided to elastically press the pressurizing moving portion 133 toward the positive electrode terminal 112. The elastic member 139 is installed inside the body portion 138 and stably maintains the pressurizing force toward the positive electrode terminal 112 by elastically supporting the pressurizing moving portion 133. Such a positive electrode connection unit 134 makes it possible to achieve a more reliable electrical connection between the positive electrode terminal 112 and the positive electrode busbar 130. For example, the elastic member 139 may be a spring member.

[0089] By including a positive electrode connection unit 134 with such a structure, the positive electrode terminal 112 and the positive electrode busbar 130 can be electrically connected with high reliability. Furthermore, the positive electrode connection unit 134 elastically pressurizes the positive electrode terminal 112, preventing deformation or damage to the positive electrode connection unit 134 or the positive electrode terminal 112. This effectively prevents connection failures caused by deformation or damage to the positive electrode connection unit 134 or the positive electrode terminal 112 that occur in conventional connection processes.

[0090] Referring to Figures 5 to 7, the negative electrode busbar 150 may include a ring-shaped negative electrode plate portion 152. The negative electrode busbar 150 may include negative electrode connectors 156. The negative electrode connectors 156 may have a form that is bent downward from the negative electrode plate portion 152. The negative electrode connectors 156 may have a form that extends from the negative electrode plate portion 152 to make direct contact with the negative electrode terminals 114. For example, as shown in Figure 7, the negative electrode busbar 150 may have four negative electrode connectors 156. The four negative electrode connectors 156 may have a form that is bent downward from the negative electrode plate portion 152 to connect to the negative electrode terminals 114 of the battery can 116 located at the bottom. The negative electrode connectors 156 are formed to extend downward from the opposite side of the negative electrode plate portion 152 and make direct contact with the negative electrode terminals 114 of the battery cell 110. In this case, the negative electrode connection portion 156 can have a structure that can provide elastic force so that it can stably contact the negative electrode terminal 114.

[0091] Furthermore, the negative electrode busbar 150 can be provided so as to be coupled to the upper cover 120. For example, the negative electrode plate portion 152 can be joined to the upper cover 120 by applying double-sided adhesive tape (not shown) or adhesive between the upper surface of the negative electrode plate portion 152 and the inner surface of the upper cover 120. However, the joining method is not necessarily limited to this, and for example, the negative electrode plate portion 152 can be joined to the upper cover 120 by a fitting method or an insert injection method.

[0092] Furthermore, the negative electrode busbar 150 may include a negative electrode connection portion 156 provided to contact the negative electrode terminal 114. The negative electrode busbar 150 may have a structure in which the negative electrode plate portion 152 forms the basic body and the negative electrode connection portion 156 extends integrally from the negative electrode plate portion 152. Specifically, the negative electrode connection portion 156 may have a form that extends downward from the negative electrode plate portion 152. The negative electrode connection portion 156 may also be provided with a connecting projection 158 that protrudes toward the negative electrode terminal 114. The connecting projection 158 may be provided to have elasticity that allows for elastic pressure. The connecting projection 158 may have a structure that is bent in a V shape toward the battery can 116. Such a V-shaped connecting projection 158 has the advantage of being able to elastically pressurize the negative electrode terminal 114.

[0093] Therefore, the battery cell assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, by including a negative electrode connection portion 156, can be directly connected to the negative electrode terminal 114 of the battery cell 110 coupled to the lower part of the holder assembly 160. Such a negative electrode busbar 150 enables a compact holder assembly 160 and can effectively increase the energy density of the battery cell assembly 100.

[0094] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a battery pack 200 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Referring to Figure 9, the present invention provides a battery pack 200 including the aforementioned battery cell assembly. The battery pack 200 may include at least one battery cell assembly 100 and a battery management system (BMS) 210. Specifically, the battery management system 210 can prevent overcharging / over-discharging of the battery cells 110 and manage temperature, etc. The battery management system 210 can be built into the battery pack 200. The battery management system 210 may be electrically connected to each battery cell.

[0096] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a moving means 300 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Referring to Figure 10, a mobility device 300 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes the battery pack 200 of the present invention. That is, the mobility device 300 can have the battery pack 200 built inside. The mobility device 300 can use the battery pack 200 as a power source for movement. For example, the mobility device 300 can be an electric vehicle, an electric bicycle, an electric scooter, an electric wheelchair, an unmanned robot, an unmanned aerial vehicle, and the like.

[0098] The preferred embodiments of the present invention described above are disclosed for illustrative purposes only, and a person skilled in the art with ordinary skill in the invention will see that various modifications, changes, and additions are possible within the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications, changes, and additions should be considered to fall within the scope of the following claims. [Industrial applicability]

[0099] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a battery cell assembly, a battery pack, and a means of transport including the same, when it is necessary to replace a battery cell, only that battery cell can be selectively separated and replaced with a new battery cell. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0100] 100 Battery Cell Assembly 110 battery cells 112 Positive terminal 114 Negative terminal 130 Positive Busbar 140 binding molds 148 Molded Vent Holes 150 Negative Electrode Busbar 160 Holder Assembly

Claims

1. Multiple battery cells, each equipped with a positive terminal and a negative terminal, The battery cell is detachably provided, and when connected to the battery cell, a plurality of holder assemblies including a positive busbar provided to be electrically connected to the positive terminal, a negative busbar provided to be connected to the negative terminal, and coupling molds provided to be coupled to the positive busbar and the negative busbar, respectively, Includes, A battery cell assembly characterized in that mold vent holes are formed in the bonding mold to allow gas to be discharged.

2. The aforementioned bonding mold is The mold plate portion in which the mold vent holes are formed, A molded projection extends outward from the molded plate portion, and an exposed hole is formed therein, through which a part of the positive electrode busbar is exposed. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, characterized by including the following:

3. The battery cell assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that the coupling mold incorporates the positive electrode busbar such that a portion of the positive electrode busbar is exposed to the outside.

4. The aforementioned positive busbar is A positive electrode plate portion located at the lower part of the coupling mold, A positive electrode projection is exposed to the outside through the exposed hole of the coupling mold and extends from the positive electrode plate portion, The battery cell assembly according to claim 2, further comprising:

5. The battery cell includes a cap assembly provided at the top, which is designed to open at least a portion of the battery cell to release internal gas to the outside when an internal gas pressure exceeding a predetermined pressure occurs inside the battery cell. The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the cap assembly is positioned to face the molded vent hole.

6. The battery cell assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that the negative electrode busbar has an insertion hole provided for inserting and coupling the coupling mold.

7. The battery cell assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that the coupling mold is provided with a slit in the mold plate portion into which the inner circumference of the insertion hole is inserted.

8. The negative electrode busbar is provided with a plurality of fixing protrusions on the inner circumference of the insertion hole. The battery cell assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that the coupling mold has a plurality of fixing holes formed in the mold plate portion, each of which is inserted into a plurality of fixing protrusions.

9. Multiple holder assemblies are joined together and further include an upper cover provided to cover the multiple battery cells, The battery cell assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that the upper cover has a cover vent hole formed therein so as to communicate with the molded vent hole.

10. The aforementioned positive busbar is The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes a positive electrode connection unit that elastically applies pressure to the positive electrode terminal.

11. The positive electrode connection unit is A pressurized moving part that contacts the positive terminal and has electrical conductivity, An elastic member that elastically supports the pressurized moving portion in the direction of the positive electrode terminal, The battery cell assembly according to claim 10, characterized by including the following:

12. The aforementioned negative busbar is The negative electrode plate section, A negative electrode connection portion extends downward from the negative electrode plate portion and contacts the negative electrode terminal, The battery cell assembly according to claim 1, characterized by including the following:

13. A battery pack comprising a battery cell assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A means of transport including the battery pack described in claim 13.

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