Battery module and manufacturing method thereof

Abstract

A battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked in one direction; a module frame that houses the battery cell stack; and a tube stacked on one side of the battery cell within the battery cell stack. A through hole is formed in the module frame, and the tube includes an injection part that is connected to an external fluid supply device through the through hole. Fluid flows from the fluid supply device into the tube through the injection part.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [Cross-reference to related applications] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0009058, filed January 21, 2022, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0008310, filed January 19, 2023, and all contents disclosed in the documents of said Korean patent applications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a battery module and a manufacturing method thereof, and more particularly to a battery module capable of controlling swelling of battery cells and a manufacturing method thereof. [Background technology]

[0003] In modern society, as the use of portable devices such as mobile phones, laptops, camcorders, and digital cameras has become commonplace, there has been active development of technologies related to these mobile devices. Furthermore, rechargeable secondary batteries are a solution to address air pollution caused by existing gasoline-powered vehicles that use fossil fuels, and are used as the power source for electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs), creating a growing need for development of secondary batteries.

[0004] Currently commercially available secondary batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium secondary batteries. Of these, lithium secondary batteries are attracting attention due to their advantages of being free to charge and discharge as they have almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based secondary batteries, a very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0005] Such lithium secondary batteries mainly use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively, and include an electrode assembly in which positive and negative electrode plates coated with the positive and negative electrode active materials are arranged with a separator sandwiched between them, and a battery case that hermetically houses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.

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

[0007] Recently, secondary batteries have been widely used not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices but also in medium- to large-sized devices such as automobiles and power storage devices. For application to medium- to large-sized devices, multiple secondary batteries can be electrically connected to increase capacity and output. At this time, pouch-type secondary batteries are becoming more widely used due to their advantages such as easy stacking and light weight.

[0008] Generally, a pouch-type secondary battery can be manufactured by injecting an electrolyte into a pouch-type outer casing in which an electrode assembly is housed, and then sealing the pouch-type outer casing.

[0009] As secondary batteries are repeatedly charged and discharged, gas may be generated inside the battery due to degradation, etc. When gas is generated inside the battery, the internal pressure increases, causing a swelling phenomenon in which at least a portion of the exterior material expands. In particular, in the case of pouch-type secondary batteries, the structural rigidity of the exterior material is weaker than in can-type secondary batteries, so this swelling phenomenon may occur more severely.

[0010] Conventionally, battery cells are housed in a module case and foam pads are placed on them to prevent the module case from excessively restricting the battery cells, and the pads absorb swelling of the battery cells.

[0011] If swelling in a battery cell occurs significantly, the pressure inside the battery increases, causing an increase in volume, which can adversely affect the structural stability of the battery module. Furthermore, battery modules often contain multiple secondary batteries. In particular, medium- to large-sized battery modules used in automobiles and energy storage systems (ESS) can contain and interconnect a large number of secondary batteries due to their high output or capacity. Even if each secondary battery only increases in volume slightly due to swelling, the volumetric changes of the individual secondary batteries can add up to a significant level of deformation in the entire battery module. In particular, the module frame housing multiple secondary batteries may be deformed or the welded joints of the module frame may be damaged. In other words, the volumetric expansion caused by swelling in each secondary battery may reduce the overall structural stability of the battery module. Furthermore, if the swelling force increases significantly with repeated charging and discharging, it may compress the separator within the battery cell, partially reducing battery performance.

[0012] Therefore, a method is needed that can absorb the expansion displacement when the battery cell swells and apply an appropriate pressure to the battery cell. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0013] An object of the present invention is to provide a battery module and a manufacturing method thereof that can absorb expansion displacement due to swelling of battery cells and apply an appropriate pressure to the battery cells so that the battery cells can exhibit optimal performance.

[0014] However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above problems, and can be variously expanded within the scope of the technical ideas included in the present invention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] A battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked in one direction; a module frame that houses the battery cell stack; and a tube stacked on one side of the battery cell within the battery cell stack. Through holes are formed in the module frame, and the tube includes an inlet that is connected to an external fluid supply device through the through holes. Fluid flows from the fluid supply device into the tube through the inlet.

[0016] The battery module may further include a heat transfer member positioned between the battery cell stack and one surface of the module frame.

[0017] The heat transfer member may include a thermal resin layer, and one side of the battery cell may be bonded to the thermal resin layer.

[0018] An injection hole may be formed on the one surface of the module frame.

[0019] The thermal resin layer can be formed by injecting thermal resin through the injection holes.

[0020] The heat transfer member may include a thermal pad, one side of the battery cell contacts the thermal pad, and the battery cell is slidable on the thermal pad in the stacking direction of the battery cells.

[0021] The battery module may further include at least one of a cooling plate or a compression pad disposed adjacent to the battery cells.

[0022] The injection port may be in the form of closed micro-holes. When the fluid is pressurized, the injection port in the form of micro-holes is opened to allow the fluid to flow into the tube or the fluid to be discharged from the tube.

[0023] The tube may be made of a soft or elastic material, and the fluid flowing into the tube may be in a liquid or gel state.

[0024] The battery module may further include a check valve connected to the tube.

[0025] The battery cells may be stacked in one direction from one side surface of the module frame to another side surface, and a compression pad may be interposed between adjacent battery cells or between the outermost battery cell and the side surface of the module frame. In an End of Life (EOL) state, the deformation rate in the stacking direction of the battery cells may be 12% or less, and a surface pressure applied to the battery cells may be 0.9 MPa or less.

[0026] The module stiffness curve of the battery module can be calculated with a slope (MPa / %) range of 0.00417 or more and 0.225 or less, and the module stiffness curve of the battery module can correspond to the relationship between the deformation rate of the module frame and the surface pressure applied to the module frame.

[0027] The module stiffness curve of the battery module can be derived by reflecting the degree to which the compression pads are compressed in relation to the surface pressure applied to the compression pads and the number of the compression pads in the frame stiffness curve of the module frame.

[0028] A method for manufacturing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes assembling a battery cell stack, in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked, and accommodating, within a module frame, tubes stacked on one side of the battery cells in the battery cell stack and having an open interior, and initially pressurizing the battery cells by injecting fluid into the tubes. Through-holes are formed in the module frame, and the tubes include injectors connected to an external fluid supply device through the through-holes. During the initial pressurizing step, the fluid supply device injects fluid into the tubes through the injectors.

[0029] The initial pressurization step can be performed after the assembly step.

[0030] The method for manufacturing the battery module may further include a resin injection step of injecting a thermal resin between the battery cell stack and one surface of the module frame to form a thermal resin layer.

[0031] An injection hole may be formed on the one surface of the module frame, and the thermal resin may be injected through the injection hole in the resin injection step.

[0032] The resin injection step may be performed after the initial pressurization step.

[0033] During the assembly step, a thermal pad may be housed inside the module frame, and the thermal pad may be disposed between the battery cell stack and one surface of the module frame.

[0034] One side of the battery cell contacts the thermal pad, and the battery cell is slidable on the thermal pad in the stacking direction of the battery cells. [Effects of the Invention]

[0035] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the tube through which the fluid flows is disposed inside the battery module, thereby effectively absorbing the expansion displacement caused by the swelling of the battery cells.

[0036] In addition, since the fluid is injected into the tube after the battery cells and tubes are placed inside the battery module, an appropriate initial pressure can be applied to the battery cells to ensure optimal performance, and damage to the battery cells due to swelling can be minimized.

[0037] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0038] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module of FIG. [Figure 3] 3 is a plan view showing one of the battery cells included in the battery module of FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section taken along the line AA' in FIG. [Figure 5] 5(a) and 5(b) are enlarged partial views of part "A" in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] 4A and 4B are cross-sectional views of a battery module illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 4A and 4B are cross-sectional views of a battery module illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a cross section of a battery module including a check valve according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] 1 is a graph showing a module stiffness curve and a PD curve of a battery cell stack for a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 1 is a graph showing a module stiffness curve and a PD curve of a battery cell stack for a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 1 is a graph showing a module stiffness curve and a PD curve of a battery cell stack for a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 1 is a graph showing a range of a module stiffness curve of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 1 is a graph showing a PD curve for a single battery cell. [Figure 15] 1 is a graph showing a PD curve for a single battery cell and a PD curve for a battery cell stack. [Figure 16] 1 is a graph showing module stiffness curves for first to fourth embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] The present invention may, however, be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0040] In order to clearly explain the present invention, parts that are not necessary for the explanation will be omitted, and the same reference numerals will be used throughout the specification to refer to the same or similar components.

[0041] In addition, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for the convenience of explanation, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to those shown in the drawings. In the drawings, thicknesses are exaggerated to clearly show various layers and regions. In the drawings, thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated for the convenience of explanation.

[0042] Furthermore, when a layer, film, region, plate, or other part is said to be "on" or "above" another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly on" another part, but also the case where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is said to be "directly on" another part, it means that there is no other part in between. Furthermore, being "on" or "above" a reference part means being located above or below the reference part, and does not necessarily mean being located "on" or "above" in the direction opposite to gravity.

[0043] Also, throughout the specification, when a part is said to "comprise" a certain element, this means that it may further include other elements, not excluding other elements, unless otherwise specified.

[0044] Also, throughout the specification, "on a plane" means when the subject part is viewed from above, and "on a cross section" means when the subject part is cut vertically and viewed from the side.

[0045] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery module of Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a plan view showing one of the battery cells included in the battery module of Fig. 2.

[0046] 1 to 3, a battery module 100a according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack 120 in which a plurality of battery cells 110 are stacked in one direction, a module frame 200 that houses the battery cell stack 120 therein, and a tube 300 that is stacked on one side of the battery cell 110 within the battery cell stack 120.

[0047] The battery cell 110 is a pouch-type battery cell that can be formed by placing an electrode assembly in a pouch case made of a laminate sheet including a resin layer and a metal layer, and then bonding the outer periphery of the pouch case. Specifically, the battery cell 110 has a structure in which two electrode leads 111 and 112 face each other and protrude from one end 114a and the other end 114b of a battery body 113, respectively. The battery cell 110 can be manufactured by placing an electrode assembly (not shown) in the pouch case 114, and then bonding both ends 114a and 114b of the pouch case 114 and one side 114c connecting them. In other words, the battery cell 110 according to one embodiment of the present invention has a total of three sealing portions, which are sealed by a method such as fusion, and the remaining side may be a folding portion 115. The battery cell 110 according to this embodiment may be a pouch battery cell in which an electrode assembly is housed inside a pouch case 114 and the outer periphery of the pouch case 114 is sealed. The battery cell 110 described above is an exemplary structure, and a unidirectional battery cell in which two electrode leads protrude in the same direction is also possible.

[0048] Such battery cells 110 are stacked in one direction to form a battery cell stack 120. For example, the battery cells 110 can be stacked in a direction parallel to the y-axis with one surface of the battery bodies 113 facing each other.

[0049] The module frame 200 according to this embodiment is a member that houses the battery cell stack 120 therein and includes a first side portion 210, a second side portion 220, an upper side portion 230, and a lower side portion 240. One side (x-axis direction) and the other side (-x-axis direction) of the module frame 200 may be open, and the battery cell stack 120 can be housed through the open one or other side. The module frame 200 may include a metal material with a predetermined strength to protect the internal electrical components.

[0050] 2 may be a monoframe in which the first side portion 210, the second side portion 220, the upper portion 230, and the lower portion 240 are integrated. That is, the first side portion 210, the second side portion 220, the upper portion 230, and the lower portion 240 may be integrated by extrusion molding. Although not specifically shown, as another embodiment of the present invention, a module frame in which a U-shaped frame and an upper plate are welded to each other may also be used.

[0051] Meanwhile, the battery module 100a according to this embodiment may further include end plates 900 located on the one open side and the other open side of the module frame 200. The end plates 900 may be disposed to cover the battery cell stack 120 on the one open side and the other open side of the module frame 200. Corners of each end plate 900 may be joined to corresponding corners of the module frame 200 by welding. The end plates 900 may include a metal material having a predetermined strength and may protect the battery cell stack 120 and other electrical components from external impacts.

[0052] Although not specifically shown, a bus bar frame and an insulating cover may be disposed between the end plate 900 and the battery cell stack 120. The bus bar frame is configured to mount bus bars for connecting the electrode leads 111, 112 of each battery cell 110 to each other, and the insulating cover includes an electrically insulating material and is configured to block electrical connection between the battery cells 110 and the end plate 900. Within the battery cell stack 120, the battery cells 110 may be electrically connected in series or in parallel via the bus bars.

[0053] The tube 300 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to FIG.

[0054] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA' in FIG.

[0055] 1 to 4, the battery module 100a includes a tube 300 stacked on one side of the battery cell 110 in the battery cell stack 120.

[0056] The tube 300 may be flat so as to support the battery body 113 of the battery cell 110, or may be stacked on one side of the battery cell 110 so as to cover the battery body 113 of the battery cell 110. That is, the tube 300 may be positioned between the battery cells 110 or outside the outermost battery cell 110. There is no particular limit to the number of tubes 300, and one or more tubes 300 may be disposed within the battery module 100a.

[0057] The tube 300 allows the fluid F to flow inside. The tube 300 may be made of a soft or elastic material. The tube 300 may be made of a rubber material. The tube 300 is made of an elastic rubber material, which can enhance the pressure distribution effect between the battery cells 110. Furthermore, the tube 300 may be a flat tube that is stacked on one side of the battery cells 110.

[0058] Meanwhile, the fluid F flowing into the tube 300 may be in a liquid or gel state. For example, the fluid F may be cooling water or water. By filling the tube with cooling water or water, a cooling effect on the battery cells can be achieved. At the same time, if the fluid F is a hydrogel, it is advantageous for dispersing stress concentrated in a specific area and maintaining thermal balance, thereby minimizing the weight increase of the battery module. Conversely, it is also conceivable to use a gas as the fluid. However, if a gas is used as the fluid, there may be a problem in that the heated gas increases the temperature of the battery cells 110 as a whole.

[0059] The battery module 100a according to this embodiment is provided with a tube 300 inside through which a fluid F flows, thereby applying a constant force to the plurality of battery cells 110 and absorbing expansion displacement due to swelling of the battery cells. Because of the control method using the fluid F, the surface pressure of the battery cells 110 can be maintained constant even if swelling of the battery cells 110 occurs.

[0060] Meanwhile, through-holes 200TH are formed in the module frame 200. For example, the through-holes 200TH may be formed in the upper surface 230 of the module frame 200. The tube 300 includes an inlet 310 connected to an external fluid supply device 800 through the through-holes 200TH, and a fluid F flows into the tube 300 from the fluid supply device 800 through the inlet 310.

[0061] There are no particular limitations on the method for providing the injection part 310. For example, after the battery cell stack 120 including the tube 300 is housed in the module frame 200, the injection part 310 integrated with the main body of the tube 300 may be exposed to the outside through the through-hole 200TH and connected to the fluid supply device 800. For another example, the injection part 310 may be inserted through the through-hole 200TH and connected so that the injection part 310 is in communication with the inside of the tube 300, the outer periphery of which is sealed.

[0062] By adjusting the pressure and amount of the fluid F flowing in from the fluid supply device 800, it is possible to apply an appropriate initial pressure to the battery cell 110 so that the battery cell 110 can exhibit optimal performance.

[0063] As an example, the fluid supply device 800 is a device that supplies the fluid F inside the tube 300, and may be a normal fluid pump or a device that uses a pressure head.

[0064] In another embodiment, the fluid supply device 800 using a pressure head includes a fluid supply pipe fluidly connected to the tube 300. In this case, the fluid supply pipe is located at a position higher than the inlet portion 310 of the tube 300 and has a structure perpendicular to the ground.

[0065] The fluid level in the fluid supply pipe can be adjusted to determine the amount of fluid F flowing into the tube, thereby controlling the pressure in the tube. In this case, the fluid supply device can apply fluid pressure to the tube without a separate power source.

[0066] The battery module 100a may further include a heat transfer member positioned between the battery cell stack 120 and one side of the module frame 200. According to the present embodiment, the heat transfer member may include a thermal resin layer 400. The one side of the module frame 200 may refer to one of the walls constituting the module frame 200, i.e., one of the first side portion 210, the second side portion 220, the top portion 230, and the bottom portion 240.

[0067] For example, a thermal resin layer 400 may be disposed between the battery cell stack 120 and the lower surface 240 of the module frame 200 as a heat transfer member.

[0068] One side of the battery cell 110 may be bonded to the thermal resin layer 400. Specifically, the thermal resin layer 400 may be formed by injecting or applying a thermal resin and then curing it. The thermal resin may include a thermally conductive adhesive material, specifically, at least one of silicone, urethane, and acrylic. The thermal resin is liquid when applied and hardens after application to bond to one side of the battery cell 110. This allows the thermal resin layer 400 to fix the battery cell 110. In addition, the thermal resin layer 400 has excellent thermal conductivity, allowing it to quickly transfer heat generated from the battery cell 110 to the underside of the battery module.

[0069] An injection hole 200H may be formed on the surface of the module frame 200. For example, the injection hole 200H may be formed on the lower surface 240 of the module frame 200. The thermal resin may be injected through the injection hole 200H to form the thermal resin layer 400.

[0070] In particular, in the case of the battery module 100a according to this embodiment, the battery cell stack 120 can be accommodated in the module frame 200 with the tubes 300 open, and the fluid F can be supplied to the tubes 300 after the accommodation is completed.

[0071] In conventional battery modules, foam pads are placed between battery cells, and these battery cells are then housed in a module frame under pressure. In order to apply a certain amount of pressure to the battery cells, the battery cells are housed in the module frame while being strongly pressurized. If the battery cells are thick, a large amount of pressure is required during housing, which can cause problems such as damage to the pouch case of the battery cells.

[0072] Unlike conventional battery modules, the battery module 100a according to the present embodiment accommodates the battery cell stack 120 having the tubes 300 with the interiors open in the module frame 200, thereby minimizing the possibility of damage to the battery cells 110 during the accommodation process. Since the battery cells 110 can be pressurized by injecting fluid F into the tubes 300 after accommodation, there is no need to apply strong pressure to the battery cells 110 during the accommodation process. Therefore, the possibility of damage to the battery cells 110 can be reduced.

[0073] According to this embodiment, after injecting a fluid into the tube 300 and completing the initial pressurization of the battery cell 110, the thermal resin can be injected through the injection hole 200H to form the thermal resin layer 400. As described above, because the thermal resin has adhesive properties, the hardened thermal resin layer 400 is adhered to one side of the battery cell 110. Therefore, in this embodiment, because the thermal resin layer 400 is formed after completing the initial pressurization, damage to the adhesive portion between the battery cell 110 and the thermal resin layer 400 can be reduced even if swelling of the battery cell 110 occurs.

[0074] In summary, the battery module 100a according to this embodiment minimizes damage during the battery cell 110 insertion process and subsequent swelling process by adjusting the process of injecting the fluid F into the tube 300 and the process of injecting the thermal resin into the module frame 200. Furthermore, the pressure and amount of the fluid F flowing into the tube 300 can be adjusted to maintain an optimal pressure on the battery cell 110. Furthermore, in the case of an all-solid-state battery or a pure silicon battery, a high initial pressure is required for the battery cell to perform optimally. To increase the initial pressure, a fluid-based pressure unit can be used, as in this embodiment. Furthermore, as will be described later, even if the battery cell expands, the pressure does not continue to increase, but rather can be relieved as the fluid escapes from the tube. This reduces deformation of the battery module and reduces the risk of structural damage.

[0075] Figures 5(a) and 5(b) are enlarged partial views of part "A" in Figure 4. Figure 5(a) illustrates the state in which fluid F flows into the tube 300, and Figure 6(b) illustrates the state in which the pressure on the tube 300 reaches a certain level and the internal fluid F is gradually discharged.

[0076] Referring to Figures 5(a) and (b), the injection portion 310 of the tube 300 is in the form of closed fine holes, and when fluid F is subjected to pressure, the injection portion 310 in the form of fine holes is opened, allowing the fluid F to flow into the inside of the tube 300 or the flowing fluid F to be discharged from the tube 300.

[0077] First, referring to FIG. 5(a), when the fluid supply device 800 (see FIG. 4) applies pressure to the fluid F using the aforementioned fluid pump or pressure head, the injection portion 310 in the form of a fine hole is opened, allowing the fluid F to flow into the empty space S inside the tube 300.

[0078] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 5(b), when swelling occurs during the charge / discharge process of the battery cell 110 and the battery cell 110 expands, pressure is applied to the tube 300. When the pressure applied to the tube 300 and the fluid F therein exceeds a predetermined level, the micro-hole-shaped inlet 310 opens, allowing the fluid F to be discharged from the tube 300. That is, when the battery cell 110 swells, the fluid F within the tube 300 can be gradually discharged. This prevents a pressure increase due to degradation of the battery module 100a and relieves excessive pressure applied to the battery cell 110, thereby maintaining the pressure applied to the battery cell 110 at an optimal level. That is, even when the battery cell 110 expands, the pressure applied to the battery cell 110 does not continue to increase as the fluid F escapes from the tube 300, and the pressure can be relieved. This reduces deformation of the battery module and the risk of structural damage.

[0079] 4, the battery module 100a according to this embodiment may further include a compression pad 600 disposed adjacent to the battery cell 110. Specifically, the compression pad 600 may be disposed between the battery cells 110 or on the outer side of the outermost battery cell 110. The compression pad 600 is a foam member and can partially absorb expansion displacement when the battery cell 110 swells. In this embodiment, the battery module 100a includes a tube 300 through which the fluid F flows, thereby reducing the number of compression pads 600 compared to the conventional battery module.

[0080] A method for manufacturing a battery module 100a according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 6 and 7. However, parts that overlap with the contents previously described will be omitted.

[0081] 6 and 7 are cross-sectional views of a battery module for illustrating a method for manufacturing a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] 2 and 6, a method for manufacturing a battery module 100a according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an assembly step of accommodating a battery cell stack 120 in which a plurality of battery cells 110 are stacked and a tube 300 having an empty interior and stacked on one side of the battery cell 110 in the battery cell stack 120, inside a module frame 200, and an initial pressurization step of injecting a fluid F into the tube 300 to pressurize the battery cell 110.

[0083] In the assembly step, the end plates 900 are positioned to cover the battery cell stacks 120 on the open sides of the module frame 200, and the corresponding corners of the end plates 900 and the module frame can be welded.

[0084] Meanwhile, as described above, the tube 300 may be positioned between the battery cells 110 or outside the outermost battery cell 110. In the assembly stage, the tube 300 is not filled with fluid and is empty inside.

[0085] Through holes 200TH are formed in the module frame 200, and the tubes 300 include injection parts 310 connected to an external fluid supply device 800 through the through holes 200TH. The specific configuration of the fluid supply device 800 and the connection between the tubes 300 and the fluid supply device 800 are omitted as they are the same as those described above.

[0086] 6, in the initial pressurizing step, the fluid supply device 800 injects the fluid F into the tubes 300 through the injector 310. The initial pressurizing step can be performed after the assembly step. That is, according to this embodiment, in manufacturing the battery module 100a, the fluid F is injected into the tubes 300 to pressurize the battery cells 110 after the assembly step is completed, so there is no need to apply strong pressure to the battery cells 110 in the assembly step. Therefore, the possibility of damage to the battery cells 110 can be reduced.

[0087] Next, referring to FIG. 7, the manufacturing method of the battery module 100a according to this embodiment may further include a resin injection step of injecting thermal resin between the battery cell stack 120 and one side of the module frame 200 to form a thermal resin layer 400.

[0088] More specifically, an injection hole 200H is formed on the one surface of the module frame 200, and the thermal resin can be injected through the injection hole 200H in the resin injection step.

[0089] For example, an injection hole 200H may be formed in the lower surface 240 of the module frame 200, and thermal resin may be injected between the battery cell stack 120 and the lower surface 240 of the module frame 200. An injection device 810 may inject thermal resin between the battery cell stack 120 and the lower surface 240 of the module frame 200 through the injection hole 200H.

[0090] The injected thermal resin is cured to form the thermal resin layer 400. The thermal resin may include a thermally conductive adhesive material and may be bonded to one side of the battery cell 110 while curing.

[0091] In this case, the resin injection step can be performed after the initial pressurization step. In this embodiment, since the resin injection step is performed after the initial pressurization step is completed, even if swelling of the battery cell 110 occurs, damage to the adhesion between the battery cell 110 and the thermal resin layer 400 can be reduced.

[0092] Hereinafter, a battery module 100b according to another embodiment of the present invention and a manufacturing method thereof will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 8. However, parts that overlap with the above description will be omitted.

[0093] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] 8, a battery module 100b according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack 120 in which a plurality of battery cells 110 are stacked in one direction, a module frame 200 that houses the battery cell stack 120, and a tube 300 that is stacked on one side of the battery cell 110 within the battery cell stack 120. A through-hole 200TH is formed in the module frame 200, and the tube 300 includes an inlet 310 that is connected to an external fluid supply device 800 through the through-hole 200TH. Fluid F flows from the fluid supply device 800 into the tube 300 through the inlet 310.

[0095] In this case, the battery module 100b may further include a heat transfer member positioned between the battery cell stack 120 and one side of the module frame 200. The heat transfer member according to this embodiment may include a thermal pad 500. The one side of the module frame 200 may refer to one of the walls constituting the module frame 200, i.e., one of the first side portion 210, the second side portion 220, the top portion 230, and the bottom portion 240.

[0096] For example, a thermal pad 500 may be disposed between the battery cell stack 120 and the lower surface 240 of the module frame 200 as a heat transfer member.

[0097] One side of the battery cell 110 contacts the thermal pad 500, and the battery cell 110 can slide on the thermal pad 500 in the stacking direction of the battery cells 110. Unlike the thermal resin layer 400 described above, the thermal pad 500 does not have adhesive properties. Therefore, even if one side of the battery cell 110 contacts the thermal pad 500, the battery cell 110 is not adhered or fixed to the thermal pad 500.

[0098] The thermal pad 500 may be in the form of a flat pad and may include a material with high thermal conductivity. One surface of the thermal pad 500 is arranged parallel to the stacking direction of the battery cells 110 so that one side of each battery cell 110 can contact the thermal pad 500. The thermal pad 500 may include a silicone material or an acrylic material with good thermal conductivity. Heat generated in the battery cell 110 can be dissipated from one side of the battery cell 110 to the outside through the thermal pad 500.

[0099] Even if swelling of the battery cell 110 occurs, the battery cell 110 can slide in the stacking direction of the battery cells 110 because the battery cell 110 is not adhered to the thermal pad 500. That is, in FIG. 8, the battery cell 110 can slide relatively freely in a direction parallel to the y-axis, which is the stacking direction of the battery cells 110.

[0100] This prevents the battery cells 110 from being damaged even if swelling occurs, and reduces pressure deviations within the battery cells 110 as well as pressure deviations between the battery cells 110 .

[0101] In particular, even if fluid F flows into the tube 300 after the battery cell stack 120 is placed inside the module frame 200, the battery cells 110 are not constrained by the thermal pad 500, so the pressure deviation generated on the battery cells 110 can be minimized.

[0102] Meanwhile, the battery module 100 b according to this embodiment may further include at least one of a compression pad 600 or a cooling plate 700 disposed adjacent to the battery cells 110 .

[0103] Specifically, a compression pad 600 or a cooling plate 700 may be disposed between the battery cells 110 or on the outer side of the outermost battery cell 110. The compression pad 600 is a foam member and can partially absorb expansion displacement when the battery cell 110 swells. In this embodiment, since the tube 300 into which the fluid F flows is included, the number of compression pads 600 can be reduced compared to the conventional method.

[0104] The cooling plate 700 can be disposed to cover the battery body 113 (see FIG. 3 ) of the battery cell 110. The cooling plate 700 can include a material with high thermal conductivity, such as a metal material. For example, the cooling plate 700 can be a thin aluminum plate. One end of the cooling plate 700 can be in contact with the thermal pad 500.

[0105] The cooling plate 700 covers the battery body 113 (see FIG. 3) of the battery cell 110, enabling surface cooling of the battery cell 110. In other words, by providing the cooling plate 700 to complement the thermal pad 500 that only allows edge cooling of the battery cell 110, the cooling performance of the battery module 100b can be complemented.

[0106] A method for manufacturing a battery module 100b according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below, with the overlapping parts of the description already given being omitted.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 8, a method for manufacturing a battery module 100b according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an assembly step of placing a battery cell stack 120, in which a plurality of battery cells 110 are stacked, and a tube 300, which is stacked on one side of the battery cell 110 in the battery cell stack 120 and has an empty interior, inside a module frame 200, and an initial pressurization step of injecting a fluid F into the inside of the tube 300 to pressurize the battery cell 110.

[0108] Through holes 200TH are formed in the module frame 200, and the tube 300 includes an injection part 310 connected to an external fluid supply device 800 through the through holes 200TH. In the initial pressurization step, the fluid supply device 800 injects a fluid F into the tube 300 through the injection part 310.

[0109] At this time, during the assembly stage, the thermal pad 500 can be housed inside the module frame 200. The thermal pad 500 can be disposed between the battery cell stack 120 and one surface of the module frame 200. As an example, the thermal pad 500 can be disposed between the battery cell stack 120 and the lower surface 240 of the module frame 200.

[0110] When the battery cell stack 120 including the tubes 300 is housed inside the module frame 200, the thermal pad 500 can also be housed inside the module frame 200. Unlike the battery module 100a in which thermal resin is injected, since the thermal pad 500 is housed, there is no need to form an injection hole on one side of the module frame 200.

[0111] As described above, one side of the battery cell 110 contacts the thermal pad 500, and the battery cell 110 can slide on the thermal pad 500 in the stacking direction of the battery cells 110. Detailed description of this will be omitted as it overlaps with the description above.

[0112] The thermal pad 500 is disposed in contact with but not bonded to the battery cell 110, so that even if swelling of the battery cell 110 occurs during or after the initial pressurization step, the battery cell 110 can be prevented from being damaged. In addition, pressure deviations between the battery cells 110 and within the battery cell 110 can both be reduced.

[0113] Hereinafter, a battery module including a check valve according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0114] FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a cross section of a battery module including a check valve according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 9, the battery module according to this embodiment may include a tube 300 stacked on one side of the battery cell in the battery cell stack.

[0116] The battery module according to this embodiment may further include a check valve 320 connected to the tube 300. For example, the tube 300 may be connected to an external device (not shown) through a through-hole 200TH formed in the upper surface 230 of the module frame 200. The check valve 320 may be provided in a path through which the tube 300 is connected to the external device (not shown). Although the check valve 320 is illustrated as being located outside the module frame 200, it may also be located inside the module frame 200.

[0117] The check valve 320 is a valve that allows fluid to flow in only one direction and prevents it from flowing in the opposite direction. For example, the check valve 320 may include a main tube 321, a spring 322, and a valve disc 323. When the pressure of the fluid inside the tube 300 increases, the spring 322 is compressed and the valve disc 323 opens, allowing the fluid to be discharged from the tube 300. However, this is only one embodiment of the check valve 320, and any configuration that allows fluid to flow in only one direction in response to an increase in internal fluid pressure may be used without limitation.

[0118] When swelling occurs and the battery cell 110 expands, pressure is applied to the tube 300. When the pressure applied to the tube 300 and the fluid therein exceeds a predetermined level, the check valve 320 opens, allowing the fluid to be discharged from the tube 300. That is, when the battery cell 110 swells, the fluid within the tube 300 can be gradually discharged. Even when the battery cell expands, as the fluid escapes from the tube 300, the pressure on the battery cell 110 does not continue to increase, and the pressure can be relieved. Therefore, deformation of the battery module can be mitigated, reducing the risk of structural damage.

[0119] Meanwhile, the battery cell according to this embodiment may be a battery cell containing pure Si. In order for such a battery cell to exhibit its performance smoothly, the initial pressure must be at least 10 times that of a conventional battery cell. The pressure application method using the tube 300 into which the fluid F is injected, as in the battery module according to this embodiment, can apply a high and constant pressure so that the battery cell containing pure Si can exhibit its optimal performance. In other words, the battery module according to this embodiment has a structure suitable for use with a battery cell containing pure Si.

[0120] Hereinafter, a design method for the battery module according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0121] 10 to 12 are graphs showing module stiffness curves and PD curves of battery cell stacks for a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 13 is a graph showing the range of the module stiffness curve for a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] 2, 4, and 10 to 13, in a battery module 100a according to an embodiment of the present invention, a battery cell stack 120 in which battery cells 110 are stacked may be housed in a module frame 200. Within the battery module, the battery cells 110 may be stacked in one direction from a side portion 210 to another side portion 220 of the module frame 200. Furthermore, a compression pad 600 may be interposed at least at one location between adjacent battery cells 110 or between the outermost battery cell 110 and the side portions 210, 220 of the module frame 200.

[0123] At this time, the module stiffness curve C1 due to the module frame 200 and the PD (Pressure-Displacement) curve C3 of the battery cell stack 120 showing the swelling characteristics of the battery cells 110 are calculated and then fitted to a single graph. Then, the swelling behavior of the battery module can be predicted by finding the equilibrium point (intersection point) between the two curves.

[0124] 10 to 12 show intersections P, P', and P" between the module stiffness curves C1, C1', and C" and the PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack. The PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack is a graph showing the relationship between the surface pressure received by the battery cells 110 and the degree of change in thickness of the battery cells 110 due to swelling of the battery cells 110. The PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack can be measured in the End of Life (EOL) state of the battery cells 110. Here, EOL refers to the state when the ratio of the current capacity of a battery to its initial capacity reaches a predetermined ratio, which may be 80%. In other words, EOL can indicate the state of a battery when the capacity of the battery reaches 80% of its initial capacity, and can correspond to the state when the battery's lifespan has ended or it needs to be replaced. Meanwhile, the module rigidity curves C1, C1', and C" are graphs showing the relationship between the degree of change in the width W of the module frame 200 depending on the stacking direction of the battery cells 110 and the load applied to the module frame 200. The stacking direction of the battery cells 110 corresponds to the direction from one side surface 210 to the other side surface 220 of the module frame 200, and hereinafter, the direction in which the battery cells 110 are stacked is referred to as the width direction. Furthermore, the widths W and W' of the module frame 200 refer to the distance from one side surface 210 to the other side surface 220. The module rigidity curve C1 and the PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack will be described in detail again below.

[0125] In each of the module stiffness curves C1, C1', and C" and the PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack, the X axis corresponds to the deformation rate and may be expressed in %, and the Y axis corresponds to the applied surface pressure and may be expressed in MPa.

[0126] The intersections P, P', and P" between the module stiffness curves C1, C1', and C" and the PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack correspond to points where the behavior due to swelling of the battery cell stack 120 and the behavior due to deformation of the module frame 200 are balanced. In other words, in the case of a battery module in which a battery cell stack 120 exhibiting a specific PD curve C3 in the End of Life (EOL) state is housed in a module frame 200 exhibiting a specific module stiffness curve C1, the battery module can be predicted to have a deformation rate and surface pressure corresponding to the intersections P, P', and P" in the EOL state. That is, the battery module is deformed in the width direction by an amount corresponding to the X-axis values of the intersections P, P', and P" in the EOL state, and the battery cells 110 and the module frame 200 are subjected to surface pressure by an amount corresponding to the Y-axis values of the intersections P, P', and P".

[0127] 10, the intersection point P is preferably located between the deformation limit point x1 and the pressure limit point y1. The deformation limit point x1 is 12%, and the pressure limit point y1 is 0.9 MPa. That is, it is preferable that the X-axis value of the intersection point P is equal to or less than the deformation limit point x1 (12%) and the Y-axis value of the intersection point P is equal to or less than the pressure limit point y1 (0.9 MPa). That is, in the EOL state, the battery module according to this embodiment may have a deformation rate of 12% or less in the stacking direction of the battery cells 110, and the surface pressure applied to the battery cells 110 may be equal to or less than 0.9 MPa.

[0128] 11, if the Y-axis value of intersection point P' exceeds pressure limit point y1, it is predicted that a surface pressure exceeding pressure limit point y1 will be applied to the battery cells 110 and module frame 200 of the battery module in the EOL state. If a pressure exceeding 0.9 MPa, which is the pressure limit point y1, is applied to the battery cells 110, problems such as a sudden drop in the lifespan performance of the battery cells 110 may occur. Furthermore, if a pressure exceeding 0.9 MPa, which is the pressure limit point y1, is applied to the module frame 200, a surface pressure exceeding the yield strength will be applied, which may damage and deform the module frame 200.

[0129] As shown in FIG. 12, if the X-axis value of intersection point P″ exceeds deformation limit point x1, it is predicted that the battery module will be deformed further in the width direction than deformation limit point x1 in the EOL state. This means that excessive change in thickness due to expansion of the battery cell 110 is tolerated, which may cause problems such as disconnection between the electrode lead and the tap within the battery cell 110 or cracks in the pouch-type battery case of the battery cell 110. In addition, because it is predicted that the battery module will be deformed further than 12%, which is the deformation limit point x1, the space occupied by the battery module within the battery pack will increase excessively, which will cause a decrease in the energy density of the battery module and the battery pack.

[0130] 13, for the battery module according to this embodiment, the module stiffness curve C1 can be calculated within a range of 0.00417 to 0.225 (MPa / %). That is, the module stiffness curve C1 of the battery module according to this embodiment can be formed within a range between a lower limit module stiffness curve C1b, where the slope Sb value is 0.00417 MPa / %, and an upper limit module stiffness curve C1a, where the slope Sa value is 0.225 MPa / %. Because the intersection P between the module stiffness curve C1 and the PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack is located within the range between the deformation limit point x1 and the pressure limit point y1, it is preferable that the module stiffness curve C1 be calculated within a range of 0.00417 to 0.225 (MPa / %).

[0131] The module rigidity curve C1 will now be described in detail. As described above, the module rigidity curve C1 is a graph showing the relationship between the degree of change in the width of the module frame 200 depending on the stacking direction of the battery cells 110 and the load applied to the module frame 200. From the perspective of the module rigidity curve C1, the X-axis corresponds to the deformation rate (%) of the module frame 200 along the width direction. The deformation rate can be calculated based on the width of the module frame 200 deformed along the width direction compared to the width of the module frame 200 before deformation. For example, the deformation rate can be calculated as the ratio of the degree to which the width of the module frame 200 has been deformed compared to the width of the module frame 200 before deformation. From the perspective of the module rigidity curve C1, the Y-axis corresponds to the surface pressure (MPa) applied to the side portions 210 and 220 of the module frame 200 depending on the deformation rate of the module frame 200.

[0132] To calculate the module stiffness curve C1, a frame stiffness curve can be calculated first. The frame stiffness curve is a graph showing the relationship between the deformation rate of the module frame 200 and the surface pressure applied to the module frame 200. This frame stiffness curve can be obtained through several actual tests or simulations. For example, the frame stiffness curve can be derived by applying an actual force to the module frame 200, measuring the resulting widthwise deformation of the module frame 200, and repeating this process while changing the applied force. The module stiffness curve C1 can be derived by considering the influence of the compression pads 600 on this frame stiffness curve. Specifically, the module stiffness curve C1 can be finally derived by reflecting the degree of compression of the compression pads 600 in response to the surface pressure applied to the compression pads 600 and the number of compression pads 600 in the frame stiffness curve.

[0133] The PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack will be described in detail below. As described above, the PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack is a graph showing the relationship between the degree of change in thickness of the battery cells 110 due to swelling and the surface pressure received by the battery cells 110. In terms of the PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack, the X-axis can correspond to the deformation rate (%) in the width direction of the battery cell stack 120, and the Y-axis can correspond to the surface pressure (MPa) applied to the battery cells 110 included in the battery cell stack 120.

[0134] The process of calculating the PD curve C3 of such a battery cell stack will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS.

[0135] FIG. 14 is a graph showing the PD curve for a single battery cell.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 14, the thickness change and surface pressure due to the charge / discharge cycle of a single battery cell 110 can be measured. Specifically, a single battery cell 110 is placed in a fixing jig that limits thickness change, and then charge / discharge cycles are repeated. A load cell placed in the fixing jig measures the surface pressure value at point a0. The measured a0 is represented as P0 on the Y-axis. Next, the single battery cell 110 is placed in an adjustable jig that allows thickness changes using a spring, etc., and then charge / discharge cycles are repeated. A load cell placed in the adjustable jig measures the surface pressure value at point a1, and the increased thickness of the battery cell 110 is measured to calculate the thickness deformation rate at point b1. Points a1 and b1 are represented as point P1. The measurement process is repeated with different spring constants for the adjustable jig to measure the surface pressure values at points a2, a3, and a4 and the deformation rates at points b2, b3, and b4. Based on these values, coordinate points P2, P3, and P4 can be displayed, and a curve C2 can be derived. The curve C2 thus derived corresponds to the PD (Pressure-Displacement) curve of a single battery cell.

[0137] FIG. 15 is a graph showing the PD curve for a single battery cell and the PD curve for a battery cell stack.

[0138] 14 and 15, a PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack 120 can be obtained by reflecting the number of battery cells 110 included in the battery cell stack 120 on the PD curve C2 of a single battery cell obtained through the process described in FIG. 14. As the number of battery cells 110 increases, the required surface pressure increases depending on the degree of deformation, so the PD curve C3 of the battery cell stack 120 is naturally located higher than the PD curve C2 of a single battery cell.

[0139] FIG. 16 is a graph showing module stiffness curves for the first to fourth embodiments of the present invention.

[0140] 16 shows the module stiffness curves for each of Examples 1 to 4. The PD curves for the battery cell stacks are not shown, but the equilibrium points (intersections) where the module stiffness curves for each of Examples 1 to 4 meet the PD curves for the battery cell stacks for each of Examples 1 to 4 are shown.

[0141] Looking at the swelling behavior of the battery modules predicted using the above method, the battery module of Example 1 is predicted to deform by 5.4% in the width direction at the EOL state, with the internal battery cells and module frame subjected to a surface pressure of 0.8 MPa. The battery module of Embodiment 2 is predicted to deform by 6.7% in the width direction at the EOL state, with the internal battery cells and module frame subjected to a surface pressure of 0.71 MPa. The battery module of Example 3 is predicted to deform by 6.1% in the width direction at the EOL state, with the internal battery cells and module frame subjected to a surface pressure of 0.29 MPa. Finally, the battery module of Example 4 is predicted to deform by 9.3% in the width direction at the EOL state, with the internal battery cells and module frame subjected to a surface pressure of 0.44 MPa.

[0142] In all of the battery modules of Examples 1 to 4, in the EOL (End of Life) state, the deformation rate in the stacking direction of the battery cells is 12% or less, and the surface pressure applied to the battery cells is 0.9 MPa or less. Furthermore, the battery modules of Examples 1 to 4 have module stiffness curves calculated with a slope (MPa / %) ranging from 0.00417 to 0.225. That is, the module stiffness curves of the battery modules of Examples 1 to 4 can be formed in a range between a lower-limit module stiffness curve C1b, where the slope Sb value is 0.00417 MPa / %, and an upper-limit module stiffness curve C1a, where the slope Sa value is 0.225 MPa / %.

[0143] In this embodiment, terms indicating directions such as front, back, left, right, up, and down are used, but these terms are merely for convenience of explanation and may change depending on the position of the object of interest or the position of the observer.

[0144] One or more battery modules according to the present embodiment described above may be mounted together with various control and protection systems such as a BMS (Battery Management System), a BDU (Battery Disconnect Unit), and a cooling system to form a battery pack.

[0145] The battery module or battery pack can be applied to various devices, specifically, transportation means such as electric bicycles, electric cars, and hybrids, and energy storage systems (ESS), but is not limited thereto, and can be applied to various devices that can use secondary batteries.

[0146] Although the 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 made by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0147] 100a, 100b: battery modules 110: Battery cell 120: Battery cell stack 200:Module frame 200TH:Through hole 300:Tube 400: Thermal resin layer 500: Thermal pad 600: Compression pad

Claims

1. a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked in one direction; a module frame that houses the battery cell stack; and a tube stacked on one side of the battery cell in the battery cell stack; A through hole is formed in the module frame, The tube includes an injection part connected to an external fluid supply device through the through-hole, and fluid flows into the tube from the fluid supply device through the injection part. The injection part is configured as a closed microhole, When the fluid is pressurized, the injection part having a fine hole shape is opened, allowing the fluid to flow into the tube, and the fluid having flowed into the tube is discharged from the tube.

2. The battery module of claim 1 , further comprising a heat transfer member positioned between the battery cell stack and one surface of the module frame.

3. the heat transfer member includes a thermal resin layer; The battery module according to claim 2 , wherein one side of the battery cell is adhered to the thermal resin layer.

4. The battery module of claim 3 , wherein an injection hole is formed on the one surface of the module frame.

5. The battery module of claim 4 , wherein the thermal resin layer is formed by injecting thermal resin through the injection holes.

6. the heat transfer member includes a thermal pad; The battery module according to claim 2 , wherein one side of the battery cell contacts the thermal pad, and the battery cell is slidable on the thermal pad in a stacking direction of the battery cells.

7. The battery module of claim 1 , further comprising at least one of a cooling plate or a compression pad disposed adjacent to the battery cells.

8. The tube is made of a soft or elastic material, The battery module according to claim 1 , wherein the fluid flowing into the tube is in a liquid or gel state.

9. The battery module of claim 1 , further comprising a check valve coupled to the tube.

10. the battery cells are stacked in one direction from one side surface of the module frame to another side surface of the module frame, a compression pad is interposed at least at one of between adjacent battery cells or between the outermost battery cell and a side portion of the module frame; 2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein, in an end of life (EOL) state, a deformation rate in a stacking direction of the battery cells is 12% or less, and a surface pressure applied to the battery cells is 0.9 MPa or less.

11. the module stiffness curve of the battery module is calculated in a slope (MPa / %) range of 0.00417 or more and 0.225 or less; The battery module according to claim 10 , wherein a module stiffness curve of the battery module corresponds to a relationship between a deformation rate of the module frame and a surface pressure applied to the module frame.

12. 12. The battery module of claim 11, wherein the module stiffness curve of the battery module is derived by reflecting the degree to which the compression pads are compressed relative to the surface pressure applied to the compression pads and the number of the compression pads in the frame stiffness curve of the module frame.

13. an assembly step of housing a battery cell stack in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked and a tube having an open interior, which is stacked on one side of the battery cell in the battery cell stack, inside a module frame; and an initial pressurizing step of injecting a fluid into the tube to pressurize the battery cell; A through hole is formed in the module frame, the tube includes an injection part connected to an external fluid supply device through the through-hole, the injection part having a closed fine hole shape, and configured to open when the fluid receives pressure; In the initial pressurizing step, the fluid supply device injects the fluid into the tube through the injection portion.

14. The method of manufacturing a battery module according to claim 13 , wherein the initial pressurization step is performed after the assembly step.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of injecting a thermal resin between the battery cell stack and one surface of the module frame to form a thermal resin layer.

16. an injection hole is formed on the one surface of the module frame; The method of manufacturing a battery module according to claim 15, wherein the resin injection step comprises injecting the thermal resin through the injection hole.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the resin injection step is performed after the initial pressurization step.

18. During the assembly stage, a thermal pad is placed inside the module frame; The method of manufacturing a battery module according to claim 13 , wherein the thermal pad is located between the battery cell stack and one surface of the module frame.

19. The method of manufacturing a battery module according to claim 18 , wherein one side of the battery cell contacts the thermal pad, and the battery cell is slidable on the thermal pad in a stacking direction of the battery cells.

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